Disclaimer: This story is a work of fiction in dedication to a much grander work. As such, the author does not own the rights to any characters within this story, and any correlation between any original characters that may appear and people in the real world are merely coincidental.

Chapter 9: Desperate Tears: A Cat's Plan and a Starter's Fall

4/14/Early Morning/Sunny

Path to Shujin

Another day, another chance to expose Kamoshida as the man he truly is. Here's hoping that we actually succeed this time.

Ren let off a weak sigh as he traversed the student filled trailed that lead to Shujin. It was the beginning of a new day and already he was in a less than stellar mood. The fact that he and his newfound friends failed in finding any evidence regarding Kamoshida, along with the man himself giving the trio an ultimatum, made him feel discouraged all throughout the night. It even led to a restless sleep for him, though thankfully he was spared from a visit to the Velvet Room. Even though he was starting to get comfortable with Igor's presence, he didn't want to deal with any cryptic words from the man nor the harshness of the twins at the moment. Thinking about the previous night made him recall the short chat he had with the others before going to bed, and with a soft grunt to himself, the tired teen pulled out his phone to read over the messages once more.

{Read Messages:}

[Ryuji: Hey, this don't make any damn sense.]
[The principal and even the parents know about the abuse.]
[Why ain't anybody speaking up!?]

[Makoto: I'm afraid it's because of how much good publicity Kamoshida brings to Shujin.]
[You know that reputation means everything to most people these days. And that man, as horrid as he is, does have a number of accomplishments under his belt.]
[As long as he continues to bring positive results and give the students he deems worthy college recommendations, everyone will, sadly, turn a blind eye to the terrible actions he has committed.]

[Ryuji: That can't be true!]

[Ren: Sadly, that looks to be the case.]
[I've heard talk about incidents like this from my gramps before. People that have a lot of fame to their name tend to think they can do anything.]
[And since Kamoshida is responsible for getting the volleyball team to nationals…]

[Ryuji: That's just bullshit!]
[Just because he's famous, doesn't mean he has the right to do whatever he wants!]
[He's beating kids up, and all they're allowed to do is endure.]
[And that follower of his doesn't give one single shit…]

[Ren: Follower?]

[Makoto: Are you speaking of Takamaki-san, Ryuji-kun?]

[Ryuji: Yeah, that's her. Ann Takamaki.]

[Ren: Takamaki-san? Isn't that the girl we talked to over at the courtyard earlier today?]

[Makoto: She's also in your class, Ren-kun, and the one Kamoshida picks up every now and again on the way to school.]
[Though I will say that it is unfair to call her a follower of Kamoshida, Ryuji-kun. I've talked to her earlier this morning and she didn't seem to be all that happy to meet up with him.]
[In fact, she seemed more distressed than anything. I tried to offer her some help, but she turned down my request. I worry for her…]

[Ryuji: She's still close to Kamoshida, though. Bet she told him about our little meet up with the bastard and sent him to us after we're done talking.]

[Makoto: 'we were'*.]

[Ryuji: Don't be the grammar police, Prez.]
[Ugh! What a load of bull!]
[I can't let it end like this!]
[I'm gonna try and find someone who knows about what's going on with Kamoshida during break, tomorrow.]

[Makoto: I will do the same. We have a student council meeting tomorrow, so Ren-kun and I will ask the others if they have any knowledge they would be willing to share.]

[Ren: …I doubt we'd get anything, though. Everyone's pretty tight lipped about this. I lucked out when Mishima's name popped up a couple times.]

[Ryuji: Well maybe we'll get lucky again! We ain't giving up on this, Ren!]

[Makoto: That's right.]

[Ren: Alright… If you say so.]

…Wow, I sounded pessimistic last night. I must've been really out of it when I wrote this. Ren thought with a grimace as he read the end of the chat. He honestly wasn't like that normally, but it seemed the stress from the day caught up to him. He would need to apologize to the others for his attitude later. With a nod to himself, he put his phone away and quickened his pace towards the school, slowing down when a pair of girls started speaking loudly about a certain individual of interest.

"Did you see Mr. Kamoshida play yesterday? He was so awesome! I think I might ask for his autograph after school!" The slightly excited girl to the right said, getting a quiet scoff out of Ren in response before quirking an eyebrow at the words of the nervous girl to his left.

"I dunno if that's such a good idea… I heard that you shouldn't go to the PE faculty office," The short-haired girl said in an unsure tone. "People say you can hear weird sounds, like screaming, even though no one's there…"

"What? That's probably just a rumor spread by fans to scare the competition," The long-haired girl dismissed with a wave of her hand, getting a headshake from her companion and a contemplative glare from their unknowing listener.

"Screams coming from the PE office? I don't like the sound of that…" Ren muttered as he held his chin in thought.

It seems that we discovered something else about the Keeper of Lust that is being kept hidden from everyone, Summoner. The more we learn about this man, the more I loathe him… Arsène chimed in with a dark growl, prompting a silent grunt from Ren as he quickened his pace towards the school.

You and me both, Arsène. I gotta tell Makoto-san about this before the council meeting today. If she brings it up, maybe someone can shed a little light about it. At least, I hope so…

After School

Shujin Academy, Courtyard

"Dammit. Another one not wantin' to say anythin'. Is there seriously no one willin' to speak up against that bastard?" Ryuji grumbled as he wandered around the school courtyard with a scowl on his face, the other students giving him a wide berth as he neared them.

The school day has already ended and he was no closer to his goal than yesterday. In fact, it felt like he took a step backwards. No one wanted to have anything to do with him today, and he had a feeling that Kamoshida was responsible for it. It wasn't anything new to the dyed-blonde teen, but it still bothered him that the man had such a tight grip on the students. It also made him sick to hear so many people praise the man for his 'amazing skill' during the rally. Did they not notice the state of the volleyball team after it was over? Or were they just too enamored by Kamoshida that they didn't notice? Or maybe Mishima was right after all? That everyone did know about the abuse but just didn't care because of Kamoshida's reputation…

Damn it all to hell, this is utter bullshit! Ryuji screamed in his head as he stomped towards a pillar near the vending machines and clenched his fist, as if he were about to punch it. Why can't anyone see just how much of a scumbag Kamoshida is! It's plain obvious that he's torturing everyone! Does the fact that he's a medalist and took the team to nationals really enough to make everyone practically grovel at his feet?! What the hell is wrong with everyone!?

Lad, I suggest you calm yourself before you really lose your temper. If you keep this up, you will most likely hurt yourself and garner the attention of the bloody landlubber once more, and that is something neither of us want to deal with right now. Captain Kidd warned, his words echoing in Ryuji's mind and prompting him to take a long, deep breath in an attempt to relax.

Right. Sorry, Captain. Didn't mean to almost cause a scene. Ryuji apologized as he leaned behind the pillar, getting a hard grunt from the spectral pirate in response.

"Shouldn't you be heading to volleyball?"

"Uh-huh…"

Those voices? Ain't that Takamaki and Suzui? Ryuji thought as he peaked his head around the pillar to see a pair of girls sitting in a bench beside the vending machines. One was the blonde-haired girl from yesterday along while the other person was a girl around their age with long black hair in a ponytail, the school issued turtleneck and skirt, a black leg brace on her right leg and sporting one large bruise over her right eye. The dark-haired girl also looked utterly exhausted, and her eyes seemed almost dead. He recalled her being in such a state when he tried to question her earlier, but it still bothered him to see it again. And if the sounds of rattling bones was any indication, his Persona wasn't as fond of it either.

I can't believe what we are seeing…! Why is this lass still in such a state!? Should she not be recovering in a healing facility right now?! Kidd roared in anger and concern, but before Ryuji could say anything, they heard the pair speaking again, and quieted themselves so that they could listen in on what was being said.

"That bruise above your eye… Is that from practice, too?" Takamaki asked.

"Y-Yeah…" Suzui responded in a subdued tone, prompting a quiet scoff out of Ryuji in response.

Practice, shmactice! Kamoshida's abusin' you just like the others! Takamaki, why the hell are you allowin' this?! Ain't she your best friend!? Ryuji thought as he turned his glare to the natural blonde.

"Are you sure you're not pushing yourself too hard?" Takamaki asked, the obvious concern in her voice causing the silent observer's temper to drop slightly.

"I'm ok… Volleyball's the only thing I can do right…" Suzui responded weakly, and Ryuji couldn't help but notice the parallel between her and Mishima. Before he could think about it more, Takamaki's phone went off, but for some reason she wasn't responding to it. An act that got not only his attention, but Suzui's as well. "Shouldn't you take that?"

"It's probably just my part-time job… I think."

Takamaki, you suck at lyin' now as you did in middle school. It's pretty damn obvious that it's Kamoshida callin' you. Ryuji thought darkly before immediately shifting his position when he noticed Suzui slowly getting up from the bench.

"I…should get going," The girl said weakly as she started to walk away, only to be stopped by Takamaki also getting up and placing a hand on her shoulder, not noticing the wince the ravenette made that Ryuji managed to catch.

"Shiho… Are you sure you're ok?" She questioned, her phone continuing to go off as Suzui responded with a weak 'Uh-huh' before escaping her hold and walked off. It was only as the girl left that Takamaki decided to answer her phone, and Ryuji did his best to discreetly move closer in order to hear what she was going to say. "…Yes?"

…

"T-Today won't work… I'm… I'm not feeling so good… Sorry… Bye."

Ryuji frowned as he watched the girl walk off, probably towards the lockers to get her stuff. He let off an exasperated sigh and scratched his head as he started to leave his hiding spot, only to pause when he heard more voices from near the vending machines.

"Hey, wasn't that Takamaki?"

"Rumor has it she's dating Kamoshida."

"Seriously?"

"I heard people saw them in his car together."

"You know…she seems pretty easy, huh? You think I have a chance, too?"

"C'mon, dude, you can't go after Kamoshida's bitch!"

God dammit, what the hell are these idiots saying? Is this what Takamaki's been dealing with this whole time? Ryuji thought, feeling a little sympathetic towards Takamaki after hearing all the harsh words the two guys at the machines said. It also made him recall what Makoto messaged him and Ren the previous night and made him feel a little guilty about his attitude towards the blonde.

The lass is under the same stigma as you and our comrade, Lad. I can only image what other harsh words have been said to her. Especially from the other females of your age group. Kidd mused, its sentiment shared with Ryuji as he walked away from his hiding spot with his hands in his pockets and a concerned frown marring his face.

No kidding. Girls can be super harsh sometimes. Ryuji said before taking one last look at where Takamaki had walked towards before heading towards the other direction. I guess I can ease up on her a little. Girl's got enough on her plate. No need to add on to whatever mess she's got.

Shujin Halls

"Well… That meeting went as well as expected."

"You expected the meeting to be as disastrous as it was?"

"Considering the types of questions that we were asking everyone, it was sort of to be expected if you think about it."

"Hnn… You have a point."

Ren smiled apologetically as he walked beside the dejected form of Makoto, the two having just finished with the meeting with the student council and their subsequent questioning of the members. Ren initially had hopes that the council would listen to what Makoto had to say, well aware of how assertive the brunette can be, but it appeared that Kamoshida's influence had affected even them as well. There were even some who were saying that they were promised college recommendations if they did some favors for the man, much to the chagrin of the pair. From there, the meeting devolved into a mix of the original topic and members defending Kamoshida when Makoto tried to bring the topic up. Even Ren attempted to say a few things, specifically regarding the PE faculty office, but his statement was dismissed by them stating it was just the typical rumors and ghost stories that any high school has. He had given up hope not long after the meeting started, but Makoto was determined the whole time, making the resulting failure much harder for her. Ren couldn't help but feel bad for her, but before he had a chance to say something, he noticed that the girl was staring at something before her intently.

"Makoto-senpai?" Ren questioned with a curious expression before turning his head to where she was looking to see what appeared to be a female student around his age staring at her phone and sporting a fairly large bruise over her eye. "Oh geeze. What happened to her? Is she ok?"

"I say she's about as ok as Mishima-kun is…" Makoto responded darkly, prompting Ren to turn to her in alarm as she continued. "That's Shiho Suzui, a member of the girls volleyball team. Kamoshida is also their coach, which means that whatever training he's been giving the boys is also being given to the girls if that bruise and her exhausted state is any indication."

"Huh? That's Suzui?" Ren muttered as he turned his attention back to the ponytailed girl. He recalled Ryuji messaging him in the afternoon about Takamaki having a friend in the volleyball team, but he didn't have time to properly read the message since class was still occurring and he was more or less dragged to the council room by Makoto shortly after the last bell rang. Seeing the girl in her current state tugged at his heart, and for a brief moment, he imagined Suzui sporting vibrant red hair instead of her normal black. Shuddering at the sudden mental image, Ren quickly made his way towards Suzui, a confused Makoto following close buy, and winced when he saw her turn to her with dim, almost dead, eyes.

Eyes that should not be in someone their age.

"Hmm? Oh… I'm in your way, aren't I? Sorry…" Suzui said weakly, her tired words and state tugging at Ren's heart once more as he shook his head in response.

"It's fine. You're not in the way. I just…wanted to see how you're doing. Senpai noticed that you were hurt and I got concerned," Ren explained while gesturing behind him to where Makoto was standing, who nodded sadly in response.

"Oh, Miss President," Suzui said in surprise, as if she hadn't noticed Makoto until just now.

"Sorry for startling you, Suzui-san. We were just on our way to the courtyard when we noticed you by the doorway," Makoto said before adopting a gentle expression or tone. "Your bruise doesn't look to good. Are you ok? You can tell us."

"Um, well…" Suzui muttered, looking wholly uncomfortable that Makoto ended up stepping back to give the girl some space. Ren watched the interaction with a frown, feeling even more worried about the girl in front of him before reaching into his pocket and pulled out a large bandage. He then held it before Suzui, who looked at it in shock before craning her head up to him, her eyes now having a noticeable, if weak, spark of curiosity to them.

"This should help with the bruise. At least a little. I know a fair bit about injuries like yours from both my time in sports and my little sister's early attempts at dancing. I recommend putting some ice on it before anything to help reduce the swelling. You do that and I'm sure it'll go away soon," Ren said in a kind tone, his smile gentle as he softly placed the bandage in Suzui's palm. He stepped back as he watched the girl looked at her cover in bewilderment before turning to Makoto with a bashful expression when he noticed her looking up at him with pride.

"Um… Thank you… I'll do what you say later. When I'm…done with practice," Suzui said after pocketing the bandage, her words bringing concerned frowns back on Ren and Makoto's faces when the volleyball player turned to the frizzy teen curiously. "…You don't look familiar. Could you be that transfer student from Class D?"

"That's right. I'm Ren Amamiya. It's nice to meet you, Suzui-san," Ren confirmed with a polite bow, receiving one in return before noticing something in Suzui's eyes. They now held a weak hint of concern, but he could tell it wasn't for herself. Before he could ask what was wrong, she spoke up once more in a soft, worried tone.

"Um, this might not be any of my business, but don't let the rumors get to you, ok…?" She said, her words stunning Ren. Despite her battered state, she was more worried about him that she was about herself. It was both sweet and sad to see, and all he could do is nod in response. It seemed to satisfy her, though, because she nodded back with a tiny smile of her own before turning fully towards them with a pained expression. "…My best friend is often misunderstood too, all because of her looks…"

"You are speaking of Takamaki-san, are you not? I often see you two together during breaks. You two are very close," Makoto spoke up with a kind smile, prompting Suzui to turn to her in surprise before nodding in agreement.

"We are. We've been together since middle school. I…don't know what'd do without her…" Suzui said in a melancholic tone, one that made Ren look at her in worry before the girl suddenly shook her head. "Ah. Sorry. I didn't mean to drag on like that."

"It's no trouble, Suzui-san. It's nice to hear about your friend," Ren assured with a gentle smile, Makoto nodding along in agreement, but it seemed like their words didn't have much of an effect on the poor girl.

"Anyway, I have to go to practice… I'll see you around," Suzui said, giving a pair a quick bow before walking away, and all Ren could do was watch on as she made her way to what he assumed to be the direction of the gym. To where Kamoshida was most likely waiting…

Such a kind soul…battered and bruised by the Keeper of Lust. No one should be treated in such a poor manner, least of all someone like her. Arsène said in a solemn tone, getting a nod from Ren in response before he and Makoto walked out to the courtyard and made their way towards their previous meeting place. As they neared the area, they spotted Ryuji pacing around the area in an agitated manner, leading them to believe that he was just as unsuccessful in his search than they were.

"Dammit. What the hell…" They heard Ryuji muttered.

"I take it you got nothing either?" Ren spoke up, getting the punkish teen's attention.

"What do you think!? All of 'em kept sayin' the same shit Mishima was talkin' about…!" Ryuji exclaimed while slamming a fist at a nearby vending machine.

"We faced a similar problem during our council meeting. It seems that Kamoshida has told them about what we were planning. At this point, I'm afraid the only choice we might have is going to him directly," Makoto said with a disappointed sigh.

"But isn't that idea dangerous on its own? Who knows what he might do if we try the direct approach…?" Ren pointed out, getting groan out of Ryuji and a weak headshake from Makoto in response.

"Yeah, that's true. But seriously, isn't there something we can do? There's no way we're gonna give in like this," Ryuji questioned, his eyes looking desperate as he turned to Ren. "Can you think of anything?"

"…Honestly, I don't have a clue. One thing I can think of is getting the police involved, but I doubt they would believe how exactly we found out about Kamoshida's darker actions," Ren said in a frustrated tone as he grabbed a lock of his hair and fiddled with it in a nervous habit. "Only other idea I got would be doing something like sneaking a video camera or something in the gym and have it record the practice, but that sounds much harder to pull off."

"You're right about going to the authorities, sadly. Without any concrete proof, there is no way they will get involved. I learned that the hard way when I tried to get Sis to listen to me," Makoto added in, her arms crossed as she held her cheek in a pondering expression as Ryuji let off an exasperated groan.

"And there's no way we can sneak a camera into the gym. We're too noticeable. And we can't just ask someone to do it for us with how everyone's been actin' 'round us. What do we do?"

The trio sighed as they all pondered on what they should do, trying desperately to figure out how to go about exposing Kamoshida. It was then that a thought occurred to them. The idea, however, did not come from them exactly, but from their Personas…

Summoner, you know that there is still another way to accomplish your goal. Is it not obvious?

Mistress, there is one more option remaining. One that only you and your allies can perform.

Lad, think. You have one plan left that you and your crew can pull off. One that should've been done from the beginning.

PUNISH THE KING.

"Punish the king?" Ren, Ryuji and Makoto muttered simultaneously, jumping in surprise when they realized what they all just said.

"Uh, guys? Did you just…?" Ren started, watching as both Makoto and Ryuji responded with shaky nods.

"Heard our Personas talk to us telepathically? Yes. It's been happening ever since we Awakened to them. And it seems that they gave us the key to finally take down Kamoshida," Makoto confirmed as a look of determination crossed her face.

"The king…? You think our Personas were talking about the other world's Kamoshida?" Ryuji questioned.

"That has to be the case. If we are able do something to the Kamoshida in that world, maybe will affect the one here," Ren said with a firm nod, though Ryuji still appeared unsure.

"Are you sure it'll work, though? I mean—"

"I finally found you…" A voice spoke up, causing Ren and Ryuji to jump in surprise

"Huh? Senpai, did you say something?" Ren asked, looking at the brunette who was also looking quite bewildered.

"No, that wasn't me," She shook her head while Ryuji looked around the courtyard in confusion.

"If it wasn't you, then—"

"Don't think you can get away with not paying me back for helping you," A familiar, condescending voice spoke up once more, and before the trio could say anything, a small black cat with blue eyes, white feet, tail and muzzle, and a yellow collar suddenly jumped onto the table before them. It was then they realized the voice came from the cat itself, and it didn't take too long for them to realize who it was.

"That voice… Is that you, Morgana!?" Ryuji exclaimed in shock.

"How dare you, up and leaving me the other day!" The cat, now confirmed to be Morgana, scolded the trio as they all backed up from the table in alarm.

"The cat's talkin'!?" Ryuji shouted once more while Makoto placed a hand over her head as if relieving a headache and Ren stared at the cat mutely.

"This is getting so bizarre…" She muttered.

"I am NOT a cat! And I am NOT bizarre! This is just what happened when I came to this world! It was a lot of trouble finding you three," Morgana said angrily, his words snapping the trio out of their bewilderment as they processed what the talking cat had just said.

"Wait… You came to our world!? Does that mean you have a phone!?" Ryuji questioned in wide-eyed disbelief.

"I doubt Morgana is able to carry a phone in his current state. But that still begs the question: How did you manage to escape the other world without the use of the strange app?" Makoto questioned as Morgana turned away from the trio and started cleaning his face in a catish manner.

"You don't need one when you're at my level. I did get pretty lost making my escape, though…" Morgana explained in a condescending tone that just left more questions than answers.

The little Magician has actually managed to make his way here… I would be more impressed if he weren't so…uppity. Arsène commented in a drawl, prompting a silent nod from Ren as he continued to stare at Morgana in confusion while Ryuji got more agitated by the response.

"That aside, why can you talk!? You're a cat!"

"How should I know!?"

"Ryuji-kun! Morgana-san! Keep it down! We don't want to cause a scene!" Makoto hissed, though she was rudely ignored as the blonde in question turned to Ren, as if he had the answer to what was going on.

"You're hearin' this too, aren't ya?!" He asked.

"I am hearing all sorts of things right now, Ryuji-san… I have no idea what's going on anymore," Ren sighed as he held his head in disbelief while the cat in question rolled his eyes.

"You guys having a rough time trying to expose Kamoshida, hm? I heard you mention something about witnesses," Morgana said in a knowing town, absentmindedly scratching his ear with his back paw as he ignored both Ryuji's indignant 'Shuddup' and the annoyed glares from Ren and Makoto. "You know, I could tell you a thing or two about what to do about him, if you want. You guys were actually pretty close just a moment ago."

"…Yup. It's the Fur Bucket all right. No one else I know is that condescending…" Ren muttered, Ryuji nodding along in agreement as Morgana turned to Ren with a glare of his own.

"You were still doubting me?! And I told you I'm not a fur bucket!"

"I said keep it down! Do you want us to get into trouble!" Makoto ordered once more, this time succeeding in getting the attention of the others and getting nods in return, before all three humans stiffened at the sounds of other people talking nearby.

"We really have to be looking for a cat in a busy time like this?" An older voice spoke up, one that Ren recognized as the Disciplinary Committee Teacher during one of his trips to the faculty lounge with Makoto during the council meeting.

"I just heard a meow somewhere near here. Didn't you hear it?" A younger voice chimed in, who Ren noticed that it belonged to one of the disciplinary committee members.

"Make sure you check every nook and cranny around," The teacher ordered while shaking his head, and the trio watched as the pair left the courtyard, all of them looking confused as to what had just transpired.

"All they heard was meowing? So, does that mean only the three of us can hear what you're sayin'" Ryuji questioned the cat.

"Looks like it," Morgana confirmed as he began licking himself once more.

"…Well this is all kinds of confusing right now," Ren groaned as he shook his head, with Ryuji scratching the back of his in frustration and Makoto placing her hand on her forehead once more.

"Forget about that for now. We have other matters to focus on," Makoto said after taking a deep breath before focusing on Morgana. "Morgana-san, about what you said a moment ago… Is it true?"

"Quite the skeptic, aren't you? Well, it makes sense. Most smart people would ask a lot of questions to make sure what they hear is actually the truth. Idiots like Ryuji here usually just go with the flow," Morgana stated, causing Ren to pinch the bridge of his nose as he practically sensed Ryuji's rising anger.

"Ok, hold up. Before you start explaining everything to us, it might be best to take the conversation somewhere else. We already know that people are looking for the Fur Bucket, so it's best to leave here before anyone finds us like this," Ren suggested, ignoring the annoyed glare Morgana threw at him and focused his attention on Makoto. "The student council office is empty now. Do you think we can talk there? I doubt anyone will bother us."

"I don't think that's a good idea, Ren-kun. The disciplinary committee has access there and they are on the lookout for Morgana-san. There is a good chance that they might search there if they haven't already," Makoto shook her head.

"Well in that case, I know the perfect spot for us to talk!" Ryuji said before suddenly grabbing Morgana and raised him in front of Ren by the scruff of his neck. "Here, stick it in your bag for now! It should be small enough to fit."

"Hey! How dare you treat me like—"

"Yeah, yeah. We know. Just bear with it until we make to where Ryuji-san wants us to go. Until then, into the bag with you," Ren said before setting his bag down on the table and took Morgana from Ryuji's grasp before stuffing the cat inside, zipping it before he could escape. Ren couldn't help but allow a small, amused smile form on his face as he watch his bag shuffle around a little to show Morgana's struggling, which only grew even more when Arsène chuckled as well. His grin turned nervous, however, when he caught the unamused, crossed-arm stare that Makoto was giving him, and muttered a weak apology before following the equally nervous Ryuji towards the direction of the school rooftop.

"…Don't be so rough with me!" Morgana exclaimed after the trio made it to their destination and Ren set his bag down with the zipper open, allowing the trapped cat to escape.

"Oh, will you give it a rest, already? It wasn't that bad," Ryuji scoffed before adopting a serious expression. "You said you know how we can do something about Kamoshida, right? Mind finally telling us what it is?"

"It has to do with what you all were talking about earlier. You'll need to attack his castle," Morgana said proudly, though his words didn't really make sense to the others.

"What do you mean?" Ryuji asked.

"That castle is how Kamoshida views this school. He doesn't realize what happens in there, but it's deeply connected to the depths of his heart. Thus, if the castle disappears, it would naturally impact the real Kamoshida," Morgana clarified, and while Ryuji still looked lost, hints of understanding were starting to form on both Ren's and Makoto's faces.

"I think I'm starting to understand," Makoto spoke up with a hand cupping her chin in thought. "You said that castle is how Kamoshida views the school. In other words, it's a corrupt manifestation of his inner desires. If we find a way to get rid of the castle…"

"…Then we'll end up getting rid of his corruption," Ren finished with a firm nod, their words prompting Morgana to beam at them proudly.

"Precisely! You two sure pick things up fast!" Morgana praised.

"Well I did have to take a special entrance exam to get to a high-class private school with my sister before I ended up having to come here, so I had to have some level of smarts in order to pass. Senpai's a given, though, considering she's the student council president and the number one student here," Ren shrugged as he turned Makoto with a small grin, who turned away from him with a light blush on her face due to the praise.

"Hey, save the flirting for later! We got other things to deal with!" Ryuji called out, his words causing both Ren and Makoto to blush furiously before the blonde looked down at Morgana in a curious tone. "So are those two right? If we get rid of Kamoshida's castle, he's gonna turn good? But… Is that really gettin' back at him?"

"Erasing a Palace essentially means forcing the owner to have a change of heart. However, even though their warped wants disappear, the crimes they committed remain. Kamoshida will be unable to bear the weight of those crimes, and he'll confess them himself!" Morgana explained further, smiling proudly in the end as all three teens look at him in surprise.

"You for real!? That's really possible!?" Ryuji exclaimed.

"That's right! And since the palace will no longer exist, he'll forget what we did there as well. Not only will we be able to bring Kamoshida down, but there won't even be a trace of our involvement," Morgana finished, looking as proud as ever as Ren, Ryuji and Makoto digested all that they've learned and liked everything that was said so far.

"You mean to tell us that if we manage to get rid of Kamoshida's Palace, we're able make him confess to his crimes of his own free will!? That's… That's just…"

"That's amazing is what it is!" Ryuji spoke up excitedly before Makoto could finish, looking down at Morgana with a beaming grin. "You are one incredible cat!"

"True! Except for the cat part!"

As Makoto continued to process everything and Ryuji grinning at the proud cat, Ren still had his doubts about the plan. It sounded good, but he still felt that there was more to it all. There was no doubt that Morgana had more to tell them, but he couldn't help the nagging feeling in his head that he wasn't going to like what he was going to hear soon. He had such feelings before, and in the past he simply dismissed them as him being nervous or paranoid, but after number of incidents that led him to being roped into an undesirable position in his old school's student council, getting himself lost in a blizzard, and most recently getting a false charge, he was understandably wary of the idea.

It seems as though you are the true skeptic of the group, Summoner. Then again, after learning all that you have been though, I can't say that I am all that surprised. Arsène mused.

…I guess I shouldn't be surprised that you know. You're supposed to be me, after all. 'I am thou' and all that, right? Ren thought back, getting a confirming hum in response.

"Morgana, as amazing as this sounds, how do we go about accomplishing this task? I am assuming that this plan of yours doesn't literally involve breaking down Kamoshida's Palace," Makoto spoke up, breaking up Ren's talk with Arsène as he turned his attention back to the others, who have now calmed down from their excitement.

"That's right. We don't need to tear down the castle exactly. We just need to steal the Treasure within it," Morgana confirmed, his words once again sparking confusion among the teens.

"Stealing?" Ryuji parroted.

"I'll tell you more once you agree to go ahead with this. It's my most valuable, secret plan, after all. If you want to help me out, I'll gladly teach you. What's your call?" Morgana said cheerfully, his face and expression the exact opposite of the warry looks that were on Ren, Makoto and even Ryuji's faces.

I knew it. There's always a catch to these things. Never believe an idea that's too good to be true. Ren thought in annoyance as he crossed his arms and glared down at the cat.

"Our luck's runnin' dry lookin' for witnesses. Guess we have no choice but to go along…" Ryuji spoke first.

"I'm not sure if I'm all that comfortable about this. I mean, I know we have to expose Kamoshida for who he really is, but do we really have to resort to theft?" Makoto questioned; her concerns valid as Ren watched her turn to him in hopes for answers.

"…Honestly, I'm not too keen on it either, but it's as Ryuji-san says, we don't exactly have a choice. If this is what we have to do in order to stop Kamoshida, then so be it, I guess," Ren said after a pause, still feeling unsure about everything while Morgana looked at him in satisfaction.

"…Good." Morgana nodded happily before his head snapped up as if he recalled something important. "Oh, right. There's one more thing I should tell you."

And there goes that feeling again. I am definitely not gonna like what I'm about to hear. I know it. Ren thought with a hidden grimace as he felt the nagging feeling creeping up once more.

"If we erase a Palace, there's no doubt that the person's distorted desires will be erased as well. But desires are what we all need in order to survive. The will to sleep, eat, fall in love… Things like that and more," Morgana began, his words causing both Ren and Makoto's eyes to go wide as they realized what the cat was implying while Ryuji, like before, was still confused.

"What're you gettin' at?" He questioned slowly, also sounding wary.

"If all of those yearnings were to vanish, they'd be no different than someone who has shut down entirely. They may even die if they're not given proper care," Morgana dropped the bomb, and once those words were said, expressions of shock and dread formed on all three of the teens as they now fully realized the risk that would be involved in this plan.

"Mental Shutdown… That's…what Sis…" Makoto trailed off, her expression horrified at the conclusion they all made.

"What!? Are you saying that if we go and steal this treasure thing, we might end up killing Kamoshida in the process!?" Ryuji exclaimed in fear.

"Fuck that. Deal's off, Fur Bucket. We are not going to try and attempt something that might get a man killed," Ren growled, his words stunning the cat to the point of him jumping back before glaring at the frizzy teen in return.

"Calm down, will you? At least let me finish explaining everything, first," Morgana said in an annoyed tone.

"Would his death be our fault…?" Ryuji muttered in a horrified tone.

"Aren't you determined enough to face those kinds of risks?" Morgana pressed, his annoyance seemingly growing as the three teens began expressing disinterest in the plan.

"Morgana, this isn't an idea that should be taken lightly! You are asking us to perform a task that might cause a Mental Shutdown, something that has been running rampant all over the city! Do you have any idea what will happen to us if we go through with this plan and be found out!?" Makoto nearly screeched, looking practically hysterical that Ren rushed over to her and placed a firm hand on her shoulder in an attempt to calm her down.

"Sheesh… I come all this way, and this is what I get? It's not like anyone will ever find out," Morgana said in a disappointed tone while shaking his whiskered head.

"We'll know, and that is just as bad. You are basically asking us to commit murder if this doesn't idea of yours doesn't fully work, Morgana. Kamoshida deserves justice, that much is true, but we have no right to risk his life like this! The ends don't justify the means! I'm sorry, but there is no way we're going through with this," Ren stated as he continued to try and calm Makoto down via gently stroking her back, which seemed to be working if her slightly less frazzled appearance is anything to go by.

"Ren's right, Morgana. If we just go around secretly doin' whatever we want, we'd be no better than that effin' Kamoshida…" Ryuji chimed in, prompting Ren to turn to him and nod in approval while Morgana let out a groan.

"There's really no pleasing you guys, is there? I guess it was a mistake on my part to let you in on the details this soon," Morgana said before making his way towards the fence. "…I'll come back later. Make sure you've made your decision by then."

"We already made our decision you damn bucket of dark fur…" Ren muttered as he watched Morgana slip his way through the fence and disappear from his view.

"Man, we're gettin' all worked up for nothing… Dammit!" Ryuji shouted in frustration; his sentiments shared with Ren as he slowly let go of Makoto after noticing that she was now in a calmer state.

"Senpai, are you ok?" Ren asked gently, frowning when responded with shaking her head.

"We were just asked to commit theft and possible murder in order to extract our own justice. I doubt any sane person will be ok after gaining such a request," Makoto said in a subdued tone, causing Ren to wince at the sound of it.

"Yeah, well, don't think about it too much, Prez. We turned down the offer, so there's nothin' to worry about anymore," Ryuji said in a gentle tone as well before looking up to the sky in disappointment. "Well, I guess all we can do now is…just keep askin' if anyone's willin' to say anythin'. Maybe we'll get lucky and find someone?"

"Here's hoping. For now, I think we should get home. These past few days have been hell and I think we really need to get some rest in," Ren suggested, getting a nod from Ryuji before turning to Makoto. "Do you want me to walk you home?"

"No… I think I'll stay here for a little while longer. Maybe do a bit of studying to help clear my head. I…kind of need it after what we just learned. Sis is staying late tonight, so I won't be in trouble for being out for so long," Makoto said while shaking her head, causing Ren to frown at her words before Ryuji walked up to him.

"I'll stick around with her until it's time to go. Ma's got a late shift, too, so I'm not gonna get in trouble for gettin' home late either. You got yourself a curfew, don't you? You should head back before it gets too dark," Ryuji offered, getting a grateful expression from both Ren and Makoto in response.

"That works. You two message me when you get home, ok? I'll see you two tomorrow." Ren said with a wave before heading to the roof's exit and towards the school entrance. Just as he was about to leave, though, Ryuji suddenly appeared behind him and grabbed him by the shoulder, much to the ravenette's confusion.

"Hey, I didn't want to say this in front of the Prez, considering how she is right now, but I just remembered hearing about something regarding Suzui that I think you should hear," Ryuji whispered, causing Ren's eye to quirk upwards as he prompted the punkish teen to continue. "Well, it was a little bit before you guys showed up. I just heard a few guys bad mouthing Takamaki about being Kamoshida's bitch and shit like that, but I also heard similar stuff regarding Suzui, too. If they're true, it's no wonder I couldn't get her to talk. If you ask me, though, something about that doesn't feel right."

"…What do you mean?" Ren questioned softly, already not liking where the conversation might be going.

"It's just impossible. I've known Takamaki and Suzui since middle school and I know for a fact that Kamoshida is not their type at all. They were talkin' at the vending machines before you and Prez showed up and hearin' them talk reminded me a bit of how they were like back then. Lookin' back, I can't help but wonder how those rumors started…"

Ren couldn't help but frown at Ryuji's words. He, too, was now curious as to how such a rumor came to be. Recalling how Suzui appeared earlier today, there was no way she was in a relationship with Kamoshida. In fact, it looked to him that she was suffering just as much as the other volleyball players. The only reason he didn't call out on it like he did with Mishima was because he didn't want to frighten her like he did with the plain looking boy. He was worried about the poor girl before, but now with the new information, that worry just grew even more.

"…Thanks for telling me this, Ryuji. Take care of Senpai for me, ok? Make sure she gets home safe.

"Dude, after she calms down, odds are she's gonna be the one keepin' me safe on the way home instead of me protectin' her. You know how much of a badass she is," Ryuji joked with a grin, causing Ren to chuckle lightly in response. "But yeah, no worries, dude. I'll make sure she gets home. You get home safe, too. And maybe grab a bite or somethin' on your way. It's what I plan to do with Prez when she's done studyin'. All this stress makes a guy hungry, ya know?"

"…You got a point. I'll see if I can get a quick to-go order somewhere in Shibuya before it's too late. Take it easy, Ryuji," Ren said with a nod and a small smile before exiting the school and made his way to the subway station.

One train ride later, Ren found himself in the Teikyu Building in Shibuya, his mood just as sour as it has been at school. His mind was still plagued by the idea Morgana had, and it still frustrated him that the little bundle of cat hair wanted him and the others to essentially be criminals. It was bad enough that he was being treated as one for something he didn't do, but there was no way he was going to commit the very crime he was charged with. There was also the fact that the weird cat was asking children to the deed. Children with pirates, winged demons and a freaking talking motorbike in their heads that they could summon and fight with, but children nonetheless. It reminded the teen of those anime series that had child soldiers doing all the fighting while the adults sit back and watch, and that just didn't sit well with the teen. He was supposed to live a simple life without getting trouble for a year so he could go home with his dad and sister, not get wrapped up in some kind of supernatural conspiracy with a cat, being singled out by some entitled dick of a teacher, and preparing for a possible apocalypse if Igor said was true…

…For crying out loud, my life really did turn into an anime. I swear if I somehow end up getting a harem or meet some kid from the future calling me daddy, I am turning myself in right away. I am not dealing with that shit. Ren thought with a shudder as he climbed the stairs that lead to Station Square.

I agree meeting your child from the future would be an awkward experience, but would a harem truly be a bad thing, Summoner? Being surrounded by a multitude of beautiful women who would love to please you doesn't sound terrible, if you ask me. Arsène said, his words causing Ren to stiffen like a statue before his face exploded in a splash of crimson, causing the persona to let out a dark, throaty chuckle.

Not funny, Arsène! There's no bloody way am I gonna try and get a harem while I'm here! I am not that kind of guy! And Sumi and Dad will kill me if I tried to do something like that! Ren thought in a flustered manner as he stomped his way around the station while trying to will his blush away.

Is it that odd to have multiple women? Your father had two wives, did he not? Granted that they were at different points of his life, but that is beside the point. You could do the same thing with the fierce Priestess and your new acquaintance, if you so wish. Arsène pointed out, his tone obviously teasing and prompting Ren to groan as he covered his now glowing face with one hand while gripping his bag tightly with the other.

I know what you're trying to do, but do you seriously have to get my mind out of Morgana's idea with something like this? And why did you have to bring up Dad's relationships with Mom and Mama Kotone? You should be aware about the circumstances regarding them… Ren mentally grumbled as he turned a corner and made his way out of the station. Also, don't objectify Makoto-senpai and Haru-senpai like that. I'm aware that it was supposed to be a joke, but I really hate it when—

"Will you please give it a rest?! I told you, I'm not feeling up to it…" An annoyed voice exclaimed, causing Ren to pause both his walk and his argument with his Persona to see the familiar form of Takamaki, who appeared to be arguing in the phone with someone.

A serious argument at that if her expressions were anything to go by.

"Wait, what…!? That's not what you promised! And you call yourself a teacher?!" She exclaimed, the final word immediately triggering Ren as he began to fear the worse.

Oh hell, is she talking to Kamoshida? I knew there was something going on between them, but I didn't think—

"This has nothing to do with Shiho!" Takamaki exclaimed, her words making Ren's blood go cold as recalled Shiho being Suzui's first name. It was shortly after that that he saw her look down at her phone in disbelief, as if she was told a close family member passed away. Assuming that she got hung up on, Ren could only watch as the blond curled herself into a ball, hugging her knees and trying desperately not to cry. He wanted to help, but he wasn't sure if he should. Memories of the last time he tried to help someone started flashing his head, and initially he felt the need to walk away. It wasn't his problem to deal with. That line of thought dashed as quickly as it appeared, though, and he had a feeling that Arsène was responsible for it. He was grateful, though, because if he did follow that plan, he'd be no better than the other students who ignored Kamoshida's actions. He'd be turning back against the teachings of his family, and that was something he was not going to let go. With that in mind and Arsène's supportive presence, Ren quietly walked towards the distraught girl in hopes of helping her.

"Shiho's…starting position…"

"Excuse me. Takamaki-san?" Ren spoke softly to get her attention, hoping not to scare her too much. Unfortunately, from the way she sprang to her feet and backed up from him, that end up not being the case.

"Hey…! You're… W-Were you listening?" She questioned, her tone fearful and prompting Ren to take a gentler approach.

"…It wasn't on purpose. I was just on my way to get something to eat when I heard you. Sorry…" Ren apologized, hoping his words would allow the blonde to loosen up a little.

"Haven't you heard of privacy?" She stated with a glare, making Ren wince and mutter another apology before she let out a tired sigh. "…No, I was out of line. Sorry."

"Don't be. You have every right to be annoyed. I was the one who eavesdropped on you, after all," Ren assured as he watched Takamaki wipe her eyes of the tears that were about to fall.

"So… How much did you hear?" She asked.

"…Not much. I know you were arguing with someone regarding a friend of yours, but that's it," Ren explained, his frown growing deeper as a pained expression returned on Takamaki's face.

"Shiho…" She muttered, looking like she was about to cry once more before looking up at Ren with a glare. "It's nothing at all. Nothing…"

With that last word, the tears in her eyes finally started to fall, causing Ren to stare in surprise as Takamaki made her escape towards the underground walkway. It was only after she disappeared that Ren snapped out of his stupor and rushed after her in worry. Thankfully, it didn't look like she went off too far; after rushing down the escalator, the frizzy teen was easily able to spot her near a glowing green pillar near the train map. She really did stick out, as Ryuji said once. With her in sight, Ren slowly made his way towards her, wanting to make sure she didn't run away again. Once he got close, he called to her, and let out a grimace when she turned to him with a fiery glare.

"Stop following me… Just leave me alone!" Takamaki shouted.

"Relax. I'm gonna do anything. All I want to do is talk. To see if you're ok. That's not a problem, is it?" Ren asked as gently as he could, trying his best to convince the girl he meant no harm. And judging from the weakening of her heated stare, it seemed to be working.

"Why…? Why do you keep worrying about me?" She questioned, the tears she tried not to shed now falling freely as she continued to sob out why. The crying immediately put Ren on high alert, and he began desperately to think of the best way to calm her down.

Ironic that you are the one trying keep the young woman calm and yet you are fretting about like an amateur the moment the tears come to play… Arsène drawled, getting Ren's attention and focus.

Well excuse me for not having much experience with crying women! The only one I've dealt with is Sumi and all it takes is a hug to calm her down! I can't do that to Takamaki, I just met her! Ren exclaimed as he stared awkwardly at the weeping blonde.

Is it not obvious that your first priority is to get her away from here? There are too many prying eyes in this station, Summoner. If you wish to go to a place where you can talk in private, why not at one of the eateries like the Chariot suggested? You were planning on going there anyway, so why not? The Persona suggested, causing Ren to stare off in surprise before nodding in agreement.

"Hey, Takamaki, how about we go somewhere safe so we can talk. I told you I was planning on getting some food before going home, so how about you come with me? I can get you something, too, if you want. It's my treat," Ren offered, silently thanking Arsène with the idea and getting an amused chuckle in response.

"What the heck…? I really don't get you…" Takamaki muttered in response, causing Ren to worry that it was a sign of refusal, but let out a quiet sigh of relief when she said that she'll follow him. After a few moments of walking, the pair found themselves inside a local fast-food burger restaurant known as Big Bang Burger. It was a bit different from the Wild Duck Burger chain that Ren was used to, but as long as the fries that were served weren't soggy, he wasn't going to complain.

Your priorities are very skewed when it comes to food, Summoner… Arsène chided as Ren walked towards the end of the restaurant with two glasses of water in hand.

You have not had soggy fries before. Trust me, you'll understand after you had some. Ren counted as he made it to the table where Takamaki was sitting at and placed a glass in front of her before taking a seat.

"I don't have anything to talk about with you," Takamaki said, her voice weak but still harsh as she glared at Ren.

"Then don't. You can just order something and take your mind off things. Like I said, it's my treat," Ren assured as he took a sip of his water, watching as the girl before him stared at him in disbelief.

"…You really do make no damn sense," Takamaki sighed, shaking her head at him before turning away, as if in in shame. "It was just an argument…"

"With Kamoshida, I take it?" Ren guessed, frowning when the stressed girl nodded slowly before resting a hand on her face, looking like she was ready to talk.

"You heard the rumors, haven't you…? About Mr. Kamoshida?" Takamaki questioned, Ren nodding grimly in response as he watched the girl toy with her napkin absentmindedly. "Everyone says that we're getting it on. But, that's so not true."

"I figured. You don't seem like the girl who would do something like that. At least to me," Ren said as Takamaki looked at him with a short look of surprise before closing her eyes. "Then… That means Kamoshida really was the one you were talking to earlier."

"Yeah. He was. I avoided giving him my number…for the longest time! He told me to go to his place after this. You know that that means…!" Takamaki hissed, crushing her napkin as she spoke while Ren stared at her in shock.

"What…? You mean…Kamoshida was…" Ren trailed off, not wanting to finish the sentence as Arsène started to flap its wings in anger.

"If I turn him down, he said he'd take my friend off as a regular on the team," Takamaki continued, her voice slowly breaking as she spoke. "I've been telling myself that this is all for Shiho's sake… I can't take it anymore…!"

Takamaki-san… Ren thought sadly, wanting to say something to help cheer her up, but looked away as he knew nothing he said would matter. Nothing could be said to cheer her up. Not for something this extreme.

He knew this, but it still hurt to see the girl in such a state.

"I've had enough of this! I hate him!" Takamaki cried out, her tear falling once more as she turned to Ren desperately. "But still, Shiho's my best friend! She's all I have left in that sorry excuse of a school! Tell me, what should I do!?"

I don't know… Damn it, I don't know! Ren hissed as he tightened the grip on his knees as he helplessly watched the girl beg him to help. He wanted to do something. He truly did. It was what he'd been doing since he showed up to the hellhole of a school. He sympathized with Takamaki's plight. He felt the same way when Makoto and Ryuji were in danger just a couple days ago, and he could only imagine how much pain the blonde was in for going through what he did for who knows how long. However, he and the others couldn't do anything. Every attempt to expose Kamoshida went up in flames thanks to the man himself. It was as if the bastard was untouchable. There had to be a way to expose the man for who he truly was…

There is still the Magician's plan, Summoner. As much as you dislike the risk of potentially ending someone's life, I fear that we might have to take the chance, lest something horrid should happen to the maiden before us… Arsène offered solemnly, as if reluctant to give this advice to him. And Ren couldn't blame him. Though the Persona did suggest dealing with the King, the moment the risks were revealed, it backed up on the idea just as Ren had. Arsène may be a manifestation of Ren's darker thoughts, but it was still Ren all the same, and held the same morals as he did. They both wanted justice, but not if it meant sacrificing the life of another…

"Sorry. I shouldn't have asked. It's not your problem…" Takamaki said, snapping Ren out of his thoughts to see her wipe away the rest of her tears and shake her head. "What…am I saying…? I've barely even talked to you before…"

"Um… Your guess is as good as mine. I was just making my way here when I overheard your talk. Again, sorry about that," Ren apologized, looking away slightly while scratching his head out of habit.

"No… This was all my fault," Takamaki assured before shaking her head and held her water glass. "You're so weird. Usually everyone just ignores me. Are you really as bad as the rumor says…? You just don't seem like it…"

"I'm not. Bad stuff happens to me all the time, but I'm not a bad person per-say. Not unless you count all those times I stole some of my little sister's pocky when we were kids. If that's the case, I'm bad to the bone," Ren joked with a grin, happy when he heard the sounds of Takamaki's stifled laughter and Arsène's exasperated groan.

Summoner, I know you are trying to cheer the maiden up, but did you really have to come up with such a pathetic jest?

Hey, it worked, didn't it? If I managed to boost Takamaki-san's mood up at least a little with my bad joke, then it's a win on my book.

…As the maiden said moments ago, 'You're so weird'.

"Was that supposed to be a joke?" Takamaki spoke up after controlling her laugh, getting Ren's attention before he could make a rebuttal towards his other self.

"It made you laugh, didn't it?" Ren countered with another grin, getting a slightly amused head shake from Takamaki in response before she frowned while facing him.

"I had a feeling that they were all exaggerations. You seemed lonely, at least when Niijima-senpai isn't around. It was almost like you didn't belong anywhere… We're the same in that regard. Maybe that's why it was so easy to talk to you," She explained, prompting Ren to adopt a contemplative expression to digest her words as she continued. "Is there really no way for me to help Shiho…? I wish he just change his mind… Like forget about me and everything. Ha, as if something like that would ever happen…"

"It could happen," Ren muttered before he could stop himself, her words causing Morgana's plan to pop into his mind once more. Before he could take the words back, though, Takamaki looked at him with a curious gaze before a slight giggle escaped her lips.

"I wasn't asking for a serious response," She said with a small smile, much to the surprise of the frizzy-haired teen. "But I do feel a bit better now. Thanks, Amamiya-kun."

"…No problem, Takamaki-san. Happy to help," Ren assured with a gentle smile of his own.

"…I'm gonna head home. Thanks for inviting me here," Takamaki said as she got up from her seat and grabbed her water cup.

"Hey, do you want me to order something for you before you go? I did offer to buy you dinner, after all," Ren said as he also got up from his seat.

"No, it's ok. I'm not much of fan of BBB, to be honest. Maybe some other time, if the offer is still available," Takamaki said while grabbing her bag before pointing at Ren with her cup filled hand. "Don't tell anyone what I told you, ok? Not even Niijima-senpai. I don't know how close you two are, but I don't want her knowing any of this. Understand?"

"No worries. I won't say anything," Ren assured.

"Good," Takamaki said with a nod before turning towards the exit. "I'll try and think of a way to persuade Kamoshida. You take care of yourself. And…thanks."

"You too. Get home safe," Ren said with a wave goodbye as he watched Takamaki leave. It was a little sad to see her go after listening to her story, but she truly did appear to be in a better mood than before. He just hoped that Kamoshida would not bug her throughout the night…

Kamoshida… Ren thought, his mind dark at what Takamaki had said about him earlier. He was disgusted that the man was trying to use Takamaki in a vulgar manner. It made since, honestly, after recalling the man's Shadow and his cognition of the blonde, but that didn't make him feel any better. In fact, it made him feel even worse since he now realized how deprived the man was for sex. To go so far as to get it on with a minor? Ren's opinion of the man plummeted further and further the more he thought about him, and he desperately wanted to tell someone about this…

But he couldn't. He promised that he wouldn't. As much as he wanted to take the new evidence against Kamoshida and use it, he didn't want to break Takamaki's trust in him. Maybe in the future she will find the courage to tell a proper authority figure instead of the local new kid, but for now, he will have to settle with keeping his newfound knowledge a secret for the time being. He just hoped that Makoto and Ryuji would forgive him for not telling them anything.

Summoner, as much as I enjoy hearing you muse, may I suggest we leave this establishment? It is getting dark, and our guardian would be most cross if we arrive home too late.

Huh? Ren grunted, taking in Arsène's words and paling when he saw how far the sun set outside. It was then he reached into his pocked, pulled out his phone, and groaned when he noticed the time. Damn. It's really late. I had no idea I was talking to Takamaki-san for so long. I have to get home before Boss gets even more pissed at me. And I was actually wanting to try one the burgers or fries here before I go…

…You truly have the oddest priorities, don't you Summoner?

-Overcast-

Shujin Academy Halls

Hmm… He really isn't like how the rumors make him out to be. I hope he and Ann will get along in the future.

Shiho Suzui gently rubbed the bandage over her eye that Ren had gave her, making a light wince as she did, as she made her way to her locker. Practice had just ended and she was desperate to get home. It was more brutal than usual, especially towards the end, but as always, she powered through it. Volleyball was all she was good at, so as long as she was able to keep playing it, she would go through whatever punishment Kamoshida put her through. Lately, though, it seemed that her coach was getting more and more agitated, with today being particularly brutal. For a brief moment she thought that something had happened to Ann, her best friend, but quickly dismissed it. She was aware that the blonde was doing something regarding Kamoshida for her sake, she's heard the rumors, but she knew that she wouldn't go so far as to give up her body just for her to keep playing. She also knew that if Ann was in any trouble, she would tell her. They always had each other's backs, after all…

…Right?

Oh, who am I kidding? I haven't even told Ann anything about what's really going on in practice. And she's doing so much for my sake. I'm a horrible friend to her… I'm so sorry, Ann.

"Suzui… Are you leaving?" A familiar voice called, forcing her to stop as she realized who it was.

"What is it…?" She asked as she turned to see Mishima, one of Kamoshida's 'favorites' looking at her with his usual meek and defeated expression.

"Mr. Kamoshida's asking for you… He's in the PE faculty office," Mishima said while looking away, looking quite ashamed as he made his statement.

"What did he say?" Shiho asked, though she already had a feeling as to what her coach wanted…

"I don't know…" Mishima said while shaking his head. And she believed him. Despite being Kamoshida's 'favorite', even he didn't know everything that happened within the confines of the PE office…

But she did.

"Well… I have to go," Mishima said in a hurt tone before rushing off towards the stairs, leaving Shiho all alone as she realized exactly what Kamoshida wanted from her.

The tired girl bit her lip, tears threatening to fall off as she stood in the middle of the hall. It was all too much for her. All the torture. All the pain. All the lies. Everything. She was battered, bruised, and broken in so many ways. And this request from Kamoshida… Could she really do it? Did she even have a choice? What would happen if she just didn't show up? Who would—

*pipipipi*

Shiho's phone went off, silencing her destructive thoughts for a moment. After a few moments, she reached into her pocket and stared at it to see who was messaging her. Once she saw the name, though, the tears began to fall…

"Ann…"

It was a message from her best friend, asking her if she was ok and was heading home. It was then that Shiho knew that she had to accept the request. Kamoshida had Ann. He had her best friend. The one who was doing so much in order to keep her in the team. It hurt the girl too much, knowing that she was forcing her best friend to suffer so much for her sake. Everything was too much. She just wished that she could get away from it all. Away from the pain and torment. Away from making her best friend hurt. But there wasn't away out. None at all…

…Except for one.

I guess…there really isn't any other way. Shiho thought dimly, her eyes completely dead to the world as she made her way towards the faculty office. As if it was her last day on Earth.

To her, though, it pretty much was. But if it meant keeping her best friend safe from that horrid excuse of a teacher…then so be it.

Ann… I'm so sorry. Forgive me.

-Evening-

Leblanc Entrance

"…Well damn. I'm really late. Hope Boss isn't too angry at me," Ren thought as he stared at the door to the café, not looking forward to whatever punishment Sojiro had in store for him. It really was his fault for staying out for so long, so he wouldn't complain during whatever his caretaker had in store for him. With a deep breath, Ren entered the eatery and was greeted by sight of an annoyed Sojiro working on a crossword puzzle, just as he expected.

"You're late. Where have you been?" The man in pink asked gruffly as he set his paper and pencil down.

"Was out grabbing a bite to eat and lost track of time. My bad, Boss," Ren apologized as he scratched the back of his head in a sheepish manner.

"Are you serious? How flighty are you? Never thought you'd be someone who had his head in the clouds all the time," Sojiro scoffed as he shook his head. "…By the way, you haven't been hanging around any bad influences, have you?"

"Nope. Makoto-senpai's been making sure of that. I even made a few friends these last couple days," Ren explained, a bit relieved that the man didn't seem to be as angry as he initially feared.

"Huh. They've gotta be pretty strange to want to spend time with you," Sojiro said in a mildly surprised tone.

"…Honestly, I can't argue with that," Ren chuckled as he recalled Ryuji's zealous nature and Haru's unnaturally bright personality, but soon frowned when he noticed Sojiro's glare.

"Just make sure you're careful who your friends are, if you don't want them ruining your life," Sojiro stated, making Ren actually upset a little at the dismissal of his friends, before the man let off a tired yawn. "Look at the time. Seriously, think about how I feel having to stay up here waiting for you. I have to get going. Try not to come home so damn late in the future. Understood?"

"I got it. Sorry for making you stay here for so long. Have a good night, Boss," Ren said evenly as he made his way up to his attic, brushing off a few cobwebs and dust as he went to his bed and set his bag down. With a sigh of his own, the teen made his way over towards the box where his sleep clothes were, but stopped when he heard his phone go off. Grabbing it, he saw that it was Ryuji talking about Morgana's idea, though for some reason it was sent through a private chat between the two, not the one they shared with Makoto.

Probably didn't want to make her think about it too much. She took the consequences harder than the two of us. Probably because of her upbringing. Ren thought as he typed a quick response that basically reiterated what he said back in the rooftop. With the chat pretty much over and done with, Ren grabbed his sleep gear, changed, and proceeded to sleep as a lingering thought echoed in his mind.

Stealing Kamoshida's desires… Can we actually do it?

4/15/Morning/Overcast

Shujin Academy, Class 2-D

Ren stifled a sigh as he listened to his teacher go on about the government powers. It was all review for him, really. Having family members who were in law enforcement gave him a bit of an edge when it came to such topics. The subject itself was something Ren was interested in, at least mildly, but the way Mr. Ushimaru was giving his lecture more or less killed it. It also didn't help that those same powers were what got him arrested and sent here in the first place. If the check and balance system actually worked, he'd be attending classes in a place that didn't have self-entitled dicks as teachers and students that didn't bother him via rumors.

Although I would end up not being friends with Makoto-senpai and Ryuji. I wouldn't even have met Haru-senpai, either. At least they're making this school a bit more bearable… Ren thought as he looked ahead of him, where Takamaki was sitting and staring at the window in boredom. …Huh. I guess Takamaki-san was right. The two of us are pretty similar.

"Have you made up your mind?"

"Grk!" Ren grunted in surprise when heard a familiar voice, but before he could say anything, a small fuzzy head popped out from inside his desk, causing him to jump in alarm.

"Wow. Someone's jumpy, today," Morgana said in a teasing manner as the teen felt his eye twitch in annoyance.

"Morgana, why the hell are you in my desk?! Did you spend the night there or something?!" Ren hissed as quietly as he could, hoping nobody had noticed his actions.

"Yup. It's quite cozy in here. But that's not important. What is important, though is whether or not you and the others will accept my plan. It's the only option you have left, after all. Seriously, you'd be better off just listening to me," Morgana said in his usual proud and conceded self, which did nothing but further raise Ren's ire.

"For the last time, we're not doing it! Now shut the hell up you damn fur-bucket! You're not even supposed to be—"

"Hm? Did I just hear a cat just now?" Mr. Ushimaru suddenly spoke up, catching both Ren and Morgana by surprise as the frizzy teen watch the man and some of his classmates look around the room.

"M-Meow!" Morgana mewed suddenly, and Ren had to use all his willpower not to facepalm at the cat's antics.

This Magician is proving to be quite the headache… Is it possible to toss him out the window, Summoner? Arsène questioned as Mr. Ushimaru's voice kept going on in the background

It's very tempting, Arsène… Very tempting… Ren thought, his eye twitching as he looked down the smug looking cat in his desk before he felt his phone vibrate. Grabbing it, he saw that it was Ryuji speaking in the group-chat. Figuring he wasn't gonna learn anything new, the teen went ahead and began chatting with him and possibly Makoto.

[Ryuji: It's no use… I can't think of any other way…]

[Ren: No luck, huh?]

[Makoto: Concentrate on class, you two.]

[Ren: All this is review for me. I can spare some time here.]

[Ryuji: I can't deal with that shit right now. I mean, what're gonna do about Kamoshida?]
[And how come you responded, Prez? Aren't you in class, too?]

[Makoto: I was just exiting Principal Kobayakawa's office after giving him a report on Ren-kun's behavior when I got the notification.]

[Ren: Principal No-Neck wanted a report on me without wanting to see me? That's plain rude…]

[Makoto: …]

[Ryuji: Hey guys. Focus. We got to figure out what to do with Kamoshida. It feels like we're running out of time.]
[Do we just gotta go along with what that cat says?]

[Makoto: I'd rather not. As much as Kamoshida deserves justice, I don't want to risk his life in order to accomplish our goal.]
[I just wish we can actually go through with his plan without the risk of causing irreputable dame to him.]

[Ryuji: Urgh, that damn furball…]

"If they only knew I'm reading this too…" Morgana grumbled as the chat ended, Ren shaking his head with a sigh as he pocketed his phone. He then turned his head to his teacher to see if there was anything new about the lecture, only to notice one of his classmates standing up suddenly.

"Hey… What's that…!?" The student said, and not a moment later a chill crawled up Ren's spine.

What? Oh no, what's happened now? Ren thought worriedly as he and the other students slowly turned to where the standing student was staring.

"Enough! This is a classroom!" Mr. Ushimaru ordered, though his words were ignored by the others as they all focused on the window.

"Wait… She's going to jump…!" One girl exclaimed, her words bringing panic to Ren's mind as he and a few others started to get up from their seats.

Jump?! Shit! Someone's trying to commit suicide here?! He thought as a feeling a dread fell over him. He didn't want to believe that someone was actually willing to kill themselves in this school, but it was happening now, and he had no idea what to do. He couldn't even think who would actually end their life until Mishima softly spoke a name that made his blood run cold.

"Suzui…?"

"Shiho…?" Takamaki questioned in shock and horror before Ren, rising up from her seat as quickly as she could before rushing out of the room.

"Fuck…! Why is this happening!? Why Suzui-san!?" Ren hissed to himself as he too ran out of the room in a hurry, ignoring his instructor's demands as he rushed himself to the window leading to the courtyard. To his horror, he saw Suzui, more battered and bruised than ever before, standing in front of the roof fence and on the edge. His eyes went wide in horror as he watched the girl prepare to take her life, and was ready to go after her. Before he could, though, he heard the sounds of footsteps running up the stairs, and a moment later, Makoto appeared from the lower floor looking just as panicked as he felt.

"Senpai!"

"No time! I have to get to the roof! Stay here and let me handle this!" She ordered, and Ren watched helplessly as the student council president rushed her way towards the roof. He wanted to go with her, but she was correct. It would be best to let her handle this. She knew Suzui better than he did, and considering the state of Takamaki, Makoto was probably the only one in the right state of mind to try and talk Suzui out of jumping.

Shaking his head in frustration, Ren turned his attention back to the roof, where Suzui still remained. He moved closer to the window to get a better view, inadvertently standing right behind Takamaki when he did. It was a few seconds later that the door to the roof burst opened, revealing the disheveled form of Makoto. She was talking to Suzui now, that much was obvious, but he couldn't tell what she was saying. Odds are she was begging the poor girl to not jump. To not give in to her despair nor leave Takamaki. Ren clenched his fist in fear as he looked at the blond girl, who was looking more and more distressed by the second. He then heard a few gasps, and turned his attention back to the window to see Suzui facing Makoto. A small bubble of hope formed in Ren's chest, believing that his friend actually made it through to her, but that bubble burst when he saw the girl turn back towards the edge. It was then that he was able to see Suzui's eyes, and was struck in horror by what he saw.

They were dead. Cold. Unfeeling. As if she had lost the will to live. Ren was stunned at the sight of it, unable to do or say anything. Even Arsène was rendered silent in disbelief. It was then that Suzui did the one thing that would haunt Ren, Makoto, and especially Takamaki, for the longest time…

…She took the plunge.

"SHIHO!"

Author's Notes:

Well...this went faster than I had anticipated. Welcome, Tricksters. I hope you all enjoyed reading the revived chapter 9. I said that it was going to take a bit longer for this to arrive, but a little over a week was not what I had anticipated it to be. I have written this piece in just one day and, honestly, I enjoyed it. Even though the end of this piece still hurt to write, I can honestly say that I am proud of what I managed to pull off. Here's hoping I can do it again when I'm back to actually writing this work. I will admit that this chapter ended up becoming fairly different than what I had written initially, what with the Personas chiming in, adding in more background regarding Ren, and a few other miscellaneous things, but all in all, I liked how this one turned out. I just hope the ending of this chapter was satisfactory. Pieces like this are uncomfortable for me to write, so I had a fairly hard time getting the ending right. With this piece done, however, the revisions will be coming back at a bit of a faster pace, though a few here and there will take a little longer due to the types of revisions that will be needed. I will also be working on a couple of my BNHA projects in the meanwhile to get my fill of fluff, so that might slow things down a bit as well. Hope that is ok with you all... And as always, if there are any errors in this piece, feel free to let me know. At the very least, there should be no Akiras in here, but it can't hurt to double check.

With that said, thank you all so much for reading my works. I hope you all have a wonderful day and I will see you in the next update. Until the, Tricksters, farewell.