Persona 5 Strikers – From Light and Dark
By Tayla Drago
Episode #37 - Summery Beach time in Okinawa
8 – August/17th/Thursday(Okinawa)
A few days to go by during a ship cruise for the Phantom Thieves and Zen to sail from Kyoto to Okinawa to find out more on the EMMA research and such. Cool! With Akane doing well to make new friends and for her father to try giving him words of encouragement to be just fine now. During the ship ride for Keiko and Akechi spend time in the pool, Morgana with some sushi eating, massages for Yusuke, history tour for Makoto, trying out food and coffee for Haru, lots of running track to be big for one room for Ryuji, a gift shop for Ann to have some clothes to try out, arcade room for Futaba, Sophia seeing the entire grand tour, and Zen like his step-son and student to report to the police on the work. Yeah, a lot for them to do from the 15th, to all day the 16th, and the next day for the 17th to be drawing near the island of Okinawa anytime now 'as well as Hans and Ellen have quickly on their ends already'; for whatever they all come across with next to be a bit, but they'll get somewhere to their answers.
Ferry bound for Okinawa
Main deck
Now seeing from the main deck side for everyone to look at the ocean view from afar, it was nice and romantic for others.
Akechi: Look at this, Keiko. It's such a lovely view.
Keiko: I hope to have this on our honeymoon when we get married.
Akechi: For you Princess, anything.
Keiko: I can't wait, Akechi-Cun.
Even Ann and Ryuji loved it together, same with Makoto and Yusuke as well. The others loved it as well.
Haru: Wow, how pretty!
Ann: It's like a field of shinning blue jewels! Oh, I know I'm gonna cry...
Makoto: Now this is a sight to see. I'd love it even more if we were just here for a casual trip.
With Keiko holding her cell phone out for Sophia to see the whole view from there.
Futaba: Whaddya think, Sophia? Pretty nice!
Sophia: [So, this is the Okinawan sea...How pretty. What's it like under the water?]
Keiko: So many things, Sophia, so many to explain a lot of. There's a ton of fish, very pretty, and breathtaking.
Sophia: [Okay. I'd like to see that for myself one day.]
Maybe later on for Sophia to do just that.
Ryuji: Man, ain't ridin' on a big-ass ship like this so exciting?! Even with my babe with me. And for the love of Yusuke and Makoto too. Pretty awesome, right?
Yusuke: Indeed. Perhaps my adventurer's has been stirred-I can feel a surge of passion within. With both Ms. Makoto and me loving this beauty.
Soon Futaba had an idea to do.
Futaba: Okay, then! No wasting this opportunity-it's time to get in formation! Ryuji! On your hands and knees!
Ryuji: Huh? On my what?
Futaba: And you-Mona! Get on my head!
Morgana: Okay?!
Seeing Futaba's idea...For her to be standing up with her arms out, standing on top of Ryuji's back, and Morgana on her head. Ah, familiar scene here?
Akechi: Is she doing the scene from Titanic?
Keiko: Ah...I think so...
It was still weird why Futaba wanted to do something like this.
Yusuke: You're...You've...What IS this?!
Futaba: Feast your eyes on the splendor that is the classic movie poster pose! (singing) And I...
Wrong song from a different movie here.
Keiko: That's not Celion Dion of My Heart Will Go On.
Akechi: Nope, she's singing from Whitney Houston's And I Will Always Love you.
Ha! It's so funny to see this part. Not just two of them, but three as well.
Makoto: Um, I think you've gotten it all wrong...and Morgana on your head is something from Disney's Lion King too.
Ann: Isn't this just some kind of weird cheer-leading routine?
Haru: I'd call it an impersonation of the "Town Musicians of Bremen."
And how long must Ryuji on the stands for Futaba...?
Ryuji: Just why did you need me for this?
This has one of the crew ship member stop this silliness.
Sailor's Voice: Hey, you! Get down! That's dangerous!
Akechi: Sorry about that! Okay, Futaba, get down now. Get up, Ryuji. And Morgana, off you go.
That was...kind of funny, huh?
Zen: You guys are so stupid...
Keiko: Zenny, no they're not.
Enjoying the rest of the ship cruise to get to their destination at long last.
A few hours later...
Kukojima, Okinawa
Arriving on the island to look very cool looking on the beach side too along with the RV still with them. For Keiko, Akechi, Zen, Sophia, Morgana, Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Futaba, and Haru sees so many things there besides the beach thing. Other people, shops, restaurants, drink stands, and so on. For this is the island to have more details about the twin event thing of the 5 kids with powers and EMMA? Are they all connected with the two scientists too? I guess once they have a look around to find out soon enough.
Ryuji: Ah, we finally made it...We were on that ship forever...I still feel like I'm on the waves.
Stretching out after a long ride like that was more relaxing.
Yusuke: It was quite the rare experience, being surrounded by the dazzling sea like that.
Morgana: So this is Kukojima, huh? There are more people than I expected.
Futaba: Right? I was picturing something closer to an untouched island than all this.
Still, it was nice to be on for a bit during a mission.
Akechi: I think Keiko and I found our honeymoon in the future.
Keiko: And I can't wait for it.
Zen: Well, this actually was a pretty quiet place until just a few years ago...But eventually some folks cooked up a mass migration plan. They even had a slogan- "Find your new tropical life." All of a sudden, a population under 200 people suddenly explodes to early a thousand.
Akechi: I've heard about it too. Yes, something about this island's a bit off. (We got a lot of data from the valley after the five kids with powers event took place here.)
From it to be a good vacation spot, but a little too perfect...
Haru: The port area is really quite lovely. It has a bit of a resort feel to it.
Ann: Sounds like summer vacation's back on!
Zen: C'mon, you know we're not here to screw around. First thing we do is head for the research facility.
Work now and then relax in a bit later.
Akechi: Sorry, but vacation time here will have to wait a bit longer.
Makoto: They're right, we should start there. I'd like to get the investigation underway as soon as possible.
Ryuji: There go the two cops and detective again!
Hey, it's business for the Phantom Thieves really.
Keiko: We don't really have a choice right now. The case has to come first. So let's just get it over with.
Morgana: Good point, Madame Keiko. We can enjoy our free time here once the case is solved. Our current objective is the lab Ichinose found.
Ann: Okay, let's go! Um...Which way?
This calls for backup.
Futaba: Hit us with the deeds, Sophia!
Sophia: [Hmm.]
Seeing that Sophia wasn't herself right now...why was that?
Akechi: Sophia?
Ryuji: Huh? What's up?
Sophia: [I wasn't able to find any information regarding the facility.]
She couldn't find anything from it or a Jail anywhere on the island?
Ryuji: How the hell's THAT possible?
Zen: Well, Ichinose did say it wasn't exactly on the level, right? Maybe we just have to track it down ourselves.
Sophia: [I'm sorry. I couldn't help.]
Keiko: Don't be, Sophia. It's fine.
No one's perfect or AI's. Just doing something on other things' important.
Morgana: If that's the case, we should ask around and see if we can find any locals who know about it.
Ann: Who do you think we should ask first? Oh, maybe the shopkeepers know something?
Well, Futaba wanted to buy something across the streets first.
Futaba: Ooh, I spy a souvenir shop! I'm gonna buy somethin' for Sojiro!
Yusuke: Wait, Futaba! I'll join you in the search for native crafts!
Off those two go for some shopping, and then it was time to get to work.
Keiko: They'll catch up to us. (It seems we need to ask around for directions to the lab...)
It begins for everyone to talk to others and have a look around town. Unaware for Akechi to find Zen to talk about something else, he overhears his master/step-father to be talking to Miyako on his cell phone to report back in. No...! Is he really going to betray the Phantom Thieves?
Akechi: (Master?)
Zen: Hello, Commissioner? It's Hasegawa.
Miyako: [What's the situation? It's unlike you to go dark for three days straight. And knowing about Akechi's work is quite different than yous.]
Zen: My apologies-I was on the ocean. I couldn't get a connection.
Miyako: [The ocean?]
Zen: The investigation's led us to Okinawa. Supposedly there's a research facility here with ties to that EMMA app. With this and the case on the 5 children with special powers both Goro and I are still solving together. This was the best lead I had. I brought the Phantom Thieves along with Goro and me. My student...or rather step-son is still unaware.
Miyako: [Any chance of locating concrete evidence there?]
Zen: It's too soon to tell. I'll start by questioning the facility staff. If I find out they're trying to cover their tracks, though, I'll have to escalate the investigation. And I'll definitely need you to send backup if that's how it pans out.
Miyako: [Fine. Keep me posted. We're still looking into Madicce on our end. I'll let you know should anything turn up.]
Zen: Thank you, ma'am.
One more thing to say before hanging up.
Miyako: [Remember, Hasegawa...The Phantom Thieves are not solely in your pocket to help you track down the perpetrator. Akechi will soon seen and then thank us later. You are keeping them close for when we are pressed to present a culprit. When the time comes, you will turn them in immediately. Don't get too attached. Is that clear?]
Was he having second thoughts?
Zen: Understood.
Now hanging up, this has Akechi shock on what his own teacher was doing behind his and the Phantom Thieves' backs.
Akechi: Master...! (He's only using us? But why...?)
Keeping it to himself to get back to work, Zen hangs up to know on what he was doing was the right thing or not.
Zen: ...Goro.
A lot for Akechi to have a word with Zen later on about this. But for now...Let the search begins then.
Morgana: Madame Keiko, let's get the search going.
Keiko: I'm ready, Morgana.
The search begins 'besides buy some food to cook with later on' with Keiko, Morgana, and Sophia sees lots of people out to be shopping, talking, walking, drinking, and such. How were the others doing to get their answers from other people here? Anything...?
Haru: I came across a group of outgoing locals, so I asked them a few questions...Once I told them I was from Tokyo, they gave me all thus produce!
Sophia: [Those are called bitter melons, to 'goya' in Okinawa.]
Haru: Right! The locals told me they were picked just this morning. Look how bright they are! I bet they're delicious. Perhaps we could try cooking something with these? I'd love to watch you work your magic.
Keiko: Looks tasty, Haru. Thanks.
Some Goya melons to use for later, so why not? And what of Makoto?
Makoto: Chinsuko, umibudo, irabu...What should I get as a souvenir?
Keiko: Come again?
Makoto: Oh, I'm sorry, Keiko-Chan! I should get back on track. I tried questioning the shopkeepers, but they were all very evasive. The island isn't too large, though-we should be able to divide up and perform a thorough search...
Good on the Phantom Thieves for some of them so far, now to ask the towns people next.
Cheerful Man: Wow, you came from Sapporo? That's crazy. I'm surprised you made it all this way. There's honestly nothing here, but I hope you enjoy your stay.
Keiko: Thank you. I will... (What an odd person.) So, do you know anything about a research lab?
Cheerful Man: Huh? A research lab...? ...How about you visit the beach instead? Yeah, why don't you do that?
Okay, that was really weird. Now how was Ryuji holding up.
Ryuji: Man, I can't find even one Okinawa-style soba shop...
Keiko: (Food? I'm more worried about everyone else's behavior on the island. It's hard to eat at a time like this.) Oh Ryuji, this is a job. More later, okay? Hunt for one later.
Ryuji: Uhhh, yeah, Keiko, I was! I was totally gonna question some soba shop staff! A nice bowl o' soba sounds pretty to ya now, doesn't it? How about we grab some once we wrap up this investigation stuff.
Morgana: After the mission!
More talking to the people of the island again.
Keiko: Do you know anything about a research lab, sir?
Sanshin Player: Research lab? Oh, that place up over yonder...Yeah, I have no idea. I actually quit my job and just moved here not too long ago, so I still have much to learn about the island. Oh, you want to hear a little tune?
Playing something from his guitar, but...it sounded bad like a violin stick to run through a saw blade to really be annoying.
Sophia: [Ah! Horrible sounds!]
Keiko: Not the best performer here!
Morgana: Quickly! Question someone else! Just get out of here!
Moving away to go see the others or ask more people in town, too close to almost made their ears bleed. Some woman was standing around to talk to next.
Soul-Searching Woman: Hello.
Keiko: Hi, Miss. Sorry to bother you, but do you know a research lab?
Soul-Searching Woman: You're looking for a research lab? Sorry, but I'm just a tourist. Why not ask EMMA? You have a phone, right?
Next person to ask, another teammate to talk to next.
Morgana: Lady Ann.
Ann: Oh hey, sorry. I can't help but stare at that ocean.
Keiko: It is pretty to look at.
It sure a sight to look upon on.
Ann: Getting to take it easy in a place lie this would be so nice...I heard there's even a great public beach nearby. I hope we have time to check it out!
I bet they will in a bit after they talk to others on the lab location to be somewhere, something was up with them. Answering back to be too normal wasn't right at all. But first, how were Futaba and Yusuke's shopping for gifts go?
Futaba: OMG, Shiisaa Alert! I've never seen one in real life! Whoa, look how detailed they are from close up! And they all have different expressions!
From the two statues of it in the middle of the town.
Keiko: And I thought I've seen those and got one of the Shadows and Personas.
Sophia: [These are divine guardians, said to stave off disasters. Apparently, the one on the right is mate, while the left one is female.]
The details on what Sophia just said was right.
Futaba: Ah, so they're a couple! Good lookin' out, Mr. and Mrs. Shiisaa!
Next was to see how Yusuke was doing, since this was the first for Futaba to enjoy the statues there.
Yusuke: The endless skies and ocean, the pleasant crashing of the waves, the scent of fresh fruit wafting along the wind...This is no mere tourist attraction. This is truly a natural paradise.
Keiko: Except for the bad bugs I guess.
Yusuke: And LOK at this Shiisaa! The grandeur of its profile! The dynamism of its lines!
He's at it of art of beauty once again.
Morgana: Oh dear...He's totally in the zone now.
Good for those two, time to finish up to get some more information if they can.
Keiko: Akechi.
Akechi: Keiko, no one seems to answer a simple question to us.
Keiko: About the research lab? Yeah, same here and the others. They're acting strange to be scaring me.
Akechi: Same on my end. We should all be careful here. I don't trust anyone who act...too normal. I'm a detective to know to get a bad feeling.
Sophia: [Even when you sense something?]
Akechi: That too, Sophia. Just stay alert.
Morgana: I can even smell the suspicious myself.
Keiko: I too sense something bad, Akechi-Cun's right. We need to be on our toes. Act like normal tourist now so we won't draw so much attention either. Let's do some more work together this time.
Good idea to do, for the four stayed close. Sadly, they had no luck with asking others...Well, Zen might've found something big in the area to text message Akechi and Keiko about it.
Zen: [Hey, Amamiya. Goro. I might have some intel for you guys. Come meet me behind the souvenir shop.]
Akechi: Master's found something? Master...
A lot to have trouble trusting in his teacher/step-father or not.
Keiko: Akechi?
Morgana: Looks like Zenkichi found something-should we check it out?
That's a big yes there for there was a lab building around the corner, this must be the place.
Keiko: Zenny, we're here.
Zen: Oh, hey. I overheard from some deliveryman that there's a really big building just this way.
Akechi: Then this is it.
The right one on whatever it has inside of the building itself.
Morgana: Wow, look at that path.
Zen: This is most likely it...Soooo...
So, what...?
Sophia: [What would you like to do, Keiko? If we're going to investigate, I can summon everyone here for you.]
Keiko: Please do, Sophia.
Sophia: [Okay, I'll contact everyone.]
Calling up on everyone else's cell phones, the rest of the Phantom Thieves join with the others to see the area as well. Staying close without looking weird in front of the co-workers.
Yusuke: Is this the path to the research facility?
Makoto: I believe so, Yusuke. Yes...
What else is weirder is on what it says.
Zen: A sacred festoon?
Akechi: But this is a laboratory building, not a scared temple.
Yeah, something's very off about all of this.
Ryuji: Don'tcha only see that stuff at shrines an' shit? What's it doin' here?
Futaba: I got it! They sealed a legendary yokai in there!
No Yokai nor monsters in the real world, maybe in the Velvet Room, Metaverse, and Jails only.
Ann: This is a lab. Wouldn't we find zombies or things like that instead?
Keiko: Good point, Ann. But whatever it is, it's spooky looking... (More like a very bad feeling, but I don't know what it could be.)
Of course, Makoto hates scary things.
Makoto: D-Don't be ridiculous! ...You were kidding, right Keiko-Chan?
Keiko: I really want to believe it too.
Akechi: Only Personas and Shadows are real. The twin girls like Kaguya and Picaro are a different matter.
Moving on to see on what's inside of the place than being scared or turning back either.
Zen: Enough nonsense. This lab's in the real world. Let's get going.
One more thing before walking up there...
Ann: Hey, Sophia-just to be sure, there's no Jail here, right?
Sophia: [There is no Jail on this island-I think.]
She didn't know of a Jail on Okinawa at all...?
Ryuji: You think? I thought you smelled 'em or whatever.
Zen: Yeah, you'd mentioned that you find the Jails based on their scent.
Sophia: [I am currently detecting zero scents. Unlike Sendai and Sapporo, I cannot sense a Jail here. However, there is indeed something odd about this place. I'm getting... "a bad feeling."]
It seems like Keiko and Sophia are different to know something's up.
Yusuke: A bad feeling, hm?
Akechi: What kind of bad feeling?
Futaba: Maybe you're picking up somebody with a grudge! "I'm coming for youuuuu..."
This has Makoto hugging Yusuke in fear she was in from this little joke.
Makoto: Eek! C-Cut it out! That's not funny, Futaba!
Morgana: Whatever's up there, we need to check it out.
Keiko: Then let's go. And Futaba, please don't scared Makoto anymore.
Up they go on a long pathway to reach to the building top. From the entrance, they see...nobody working there at all to be closed. With a sign on the window to leave a message for others to see what was going on...Somehow, it must be closed.
Zen: "We are closed until August 18th due to prior engagements"? Welp, sure didn't see that one coming.
Weird, huh? Even Akechi notices something too from the paper writing covered with red ink to look...really odd looking.
Akechi: Same here... (What is this red ink?)
Keiko: This is bad...Should we sneak in? We can't just stop this investigation.
Morgana: But leaving empty-handed's no good...You know, we could always just sneak in...One of the good options there, Madame Keiko.
Maybe not such a good idea to do on the sneaking part.
Zen: Hey, nothing that lands you in jail. Criminal trepassing'll cop you a felony.
Akechi: Master's right. Princess, I will never see you get into trouble on something you've been accused on ever again.
Keiko: Thanks, Akechi-Cun.
Zen: Plus, any evidence gained through a criminal act is impermissible in county. That'd make this whole trip pointless.
They weren't going to do something that badly for sure.
Ryuji: I mean, we know, but...
Zen: The sign says the 18th we'll just wait till tomorrow. Easier, and less illegal.
Akechi: Understood then.
Zen: Good, Goro. Once the staff is back, I can start flashing my badge and asking questions. This place is all kinds of shady, so I'm sure I'll turn up plenty of dirt with enough pokin' around.
Akechi: And my detective skills to back Master up. (I don't know why you're using us, but still...We'll have our little talk from this mess you're going through.)
More on that later on.
Zen: Good call there. Once I've got some evidence, I can announce the start of an official investigation, and at that point we confiscate whatever we need.
It was best to wait for those two of the smart ones to make it happen, best to be safe than sorry.
Yusuke: I see. That's quite the tactical approach.
Futaba: Whoa, check out the skills of ace detective, Akechi. And Zenkichi-Private Eye!
Akechi: I'm his sidekick.
Zen: Yeah, but I'm in "Public" Security...
Yeah, they all know that already. So what can any of them do while waiting for tomorrow? Anything at all...?
Makoto: If we're waiting until tomorrow, that gives us quite some time.
Then we all know what that means...
Ryuji: Wait, you mean...we get to party all day on the beach?!
Keiko: Oh, that sounds awesome.
Akechi: It does. Just as long as we can still remain focus too. I don't mind some beach fun at all.
Another beach fun time, yea!
Ann: Yeah, we don't want to waste any more time! How often do we get a chance like this?
Makoto: Come on now...We are on a case, you know.
Zen: Actually, that's not the worst idea. Getting too nosy right away could get people suspicious, and we cannot have that. We'd be better off trying to lay low around the tourists for now.
Akechi: So we're all free to relax.
You all know what that means...
Haru: So...!
Ryuji: We get to party?!
Ann: On the beach?!
Keiko: Alright!
This should be fun then once again with more people now.
Morgana: Pristine sands? Lady Ann?!
Ryuji: Morgana, shut up! She's my woman!
Futaba: And to top it off-a barbecue?!
Yusuke: And to top that-LOBSTER!
Akechi: Friends on a beach again and my wife to soon be...!
A lot to be going on then.
Futaba: We have a winner! Let's round up the supplies before we venture forth!
Sophia: [Okay. I'll search nearby stores-Or rather, nearby store. The only supermarket on the island is back at the port.]
Really? Oh well, I get they all walk back down to do some shopping and some nearby motels to get changed into their swimsuits next.
Keiko: Then let's get going. (We returned to the port and completed our shopping...)
From shopping, motel rooms, the VR to park, and right away to see the beach to go to next. Don't forget the sunblocks.
Ryuji: What do you guys think about here? This spot just screams "Beach party"!
Makoto: The water is mesmerizing...It almost looks dreamlike.
Who doesn't like the ocean waters like this one?
Zen: All right, let's set up camp.
Excited to get into the water and so much more to do.
Ann: Beach tiiiime!
Ryuji: Hey, wait for us, babe!
Makoto: Hold on! You haven't put on sunscreen...
Those three take off first.
Zen: Hey, hey, hey! Can't you kids at least...behave. Geez, these loud-ass brats...
Keiko: Zenny, please live a little. Loosen your tie.
Akechi: Let's all go join them. Race you there, Master!
I don't think he wants to do beach things too much.
Zen: Don't be stupid, Goro. I'm gonna check a few things on the camper-you, Amamiya, and the others go have fun.
Morgana: People'll be suspicious of anyone with such a sour look on their face, Zenkichi. If you're gonna act like a tourist at least fake having fun.
He needs to if Zen wants to fit in with the others.
Yusuke: Why not try relaxing for once? Remaining on edge all the time can't be good for you.
Haru: You can't beat this opportunity, Zenkichi-San!
Futaba: Mwehehehe, are you really gonna let the little lady down, Zenkichi?
Then Yusuke, Haru, and Futaba go on ahead next to have Zen join the others too.
Zen: *sigh* Fine, fine. I'll take a break. But just a short one, hear me?
Akechi: Sure, Master, whatever you say.
This has Morgana, Keiko, and Akechi laughing.
Morgana: Nyeheh! You don't seem to bothered at all over it.
Zen: Shut up!
Also Sophia wants to see what under water looks like as well.
Sophia: [Take me with you, Keiko. This will be my first time in the ocean. Smartphones are totally waterproof nowadays. Please? I know this phone can go underwater, I just checked again.]
She was right, Sophia can see things underwater of the cell phone was water proof.
Keiko: Sure thing, Sophia, I'll be your guide. Let's get in there already.
Morgana: Oh yeah! We're all going wild today!
Akechi: Then let's go have some fun. (Whatever's on Master's mind, I'll find out. I want for him, my friends, and my Keiko to all have a great time while also doing our jobs.)
One thing at a time first, it was beach fun time!
Keiko: Then let's go get changed! (We get to enjoy summer at the beach after all...!)
It was beach time! From Keiko enjoying the sun with good sun block all over 'and everyone else', with Morgana sitting in the sands...Ann pops out of the waters to love the feeling of swimming. For those two, Ann's boyfriend Ryuji, and Akechi see her out there.
Ryuji: Huh?
Ann: Ah man, the water's so clear!
Showing off for Ryuji loved every sight from Ann's swim suit look.
Ryuji: Whoa...! Okinawa's the freakin' best!
Akechi: And a lot more down there too with the tops as well.
Keiko's fiance was really grabbing Keiko's boobs from outside of the her swimsuit top.
Keiko: Akechi!
Akechi: What? It shows on how much you've became a true woman in my eye.
Keiko: Yeah, but not in public...
Akechi: But you love it.
Kissing the cuddling together while Haru was drinking and sitting down in the shade, and Zen resting on the side as well. Even Futaba on a floaty.
Futaba: Hey, guys! You gotta see these fish!
And a lot of fishes there were under the sea. For Makoto sees them while swimming... Same with Yusuke to love his girlfriend's looks, and then seeing some craw fish to get his art attention again. Almost made him lose some air to breathe. Soon Keiko swims in the ocean to show Sophia everything, good thing the cell phone's water proof.
[Sophia: Whoa...]
Loving it a lot to take some photos with the app itself. As the sun was setting, Akechi had an idea...Zen wakes up to see him looking like a sand art work of a mermaid with lobsters all over and sea weeds.
Yusuke: And done, you're beautiful.
This had everyone laughing.
Akechi: We got you good, didn't we?
Zen: Ah, well. It's some detail work...For a bunch of damn kids!
Getting out of the sands to chase after them but Keiko and Akechi to get away.
Akechi: Look out! Master has completely loss it!
Keiko: Don't hurt us, Zenny! Please?
Laughing together and holding hands, it was a fun day today.
Zen: Get back here! You're all under arrest!
Getting chase on the beach, it was so much fun.
Morgana: Oh, the sun's setting...So, what should we do next, Madame Keiko? And if Akechi touches you in public again-!
Keiko: It's fine, Morgana. He doesn't do it in front of everyone...
Other than that, a text message jingle goes off from Keiko's cell phone.
Morgana: Hmm? Hey, your phone's buzzing.
Checking it out...
[Zen: Hey, got a sec, Amamiya? Be ready to move once things settle down, okay? I'm sure it'll all be fine. I've just got this weird feeling in my gut...]
Morgana: Done getting ready? For what? Well...I guess there's no need to be on edge the WHOLE time we're here.
Keiko: No, but Zenny's on to something for me to feel it out too. Same thing with Akechi.
So there was something odd going on besides the people who live on the island itself.
Morgana: I think I'll go for a walk now that it's finally less crowded around here. Madame Keiko, you should relax for a bit yourself. Why not go hang out with everyone else with Akechi?
Keiko: Okay, I'll go see how the others are doing. Don't wonder off too far, Morgana.
Off he goes and so does Keiko to hang out with Makoto with crushing a water melon blindfolded in the Japanese traditional game at the beach.
Makoto: This is so much fun to play.
Yusuke: May I play after you, Ms. Makoto? It looks fun. Even with the water melons are well made.
And other people saying random things a bit too nice in front of Keiko and the others, little at a time.
Tanned Man: You guys tourists?
Keiko: Ah...Yes, we are.
Tanned Man: There are places on this island where swimming is restricted, so I advise you to be careful.
Getting weirder, huh...? So how was Zen doing after relaxing for a little bit?
Zen: Gah, my back is killing me! I shoulda been takin' it easier today...
Keiko: Easy there, Zenny.
Zen: Well, I'm gonna go lie down. You kids clearly have enough energy to handle the dinner prep. Tell Goro to make something good for me.
Right, food and drink were going to be done in a bit at the RV. While Ryuji was catching his breath for laughing a lot from Zen's sand sculpture.
Ryuji: Oh man, my sides still hurt! Wasn't Gramps the most hilarious Venus you ever saw, Keiko?
Keiko: It was funny.
Not to Zen himself it wasn't.
Zen: What's that? You want me to show you those dotainment techniques again?
Ryuji: No no no ! No, please!
Zen: Sheesh, I can't believe you damn kids. Got anything to say for yourself?
Anything to say at all...?
Keiko: Sor-ry, Zenny...It was all Yusuke's idea than Akechi's. And Yusuke said to try a different statue now.
Zen: Hell no! I'm not some little kid you can just talk into doing whatever! Well, the sun's about to set. We should wrap up the rowdiness and get on dinner pretty soon.
Then from buying some drinks and other food for the trip later on at a nearby food stand, even Ann had fun from seeing Zen in a sand state.
Ann: Ahhh, that was great! I think I laughed enough for two lifetimes. Oh yeah! I found this really pretty shell earlier.
Keiko: Nice find, Ann.
Ann: Thanks! I thought I could string it onto a necklace as a little souvenirs for myself... But it turned out so nice, I want you to have it instead, Keiko!
Keiko: I love it, thank you.
A nice gift from a friend there, huh?
Ann: You're welcome. Maybe I should make one for everyone else? I'm gonna go look for more shells.
She goes to do that, and on the sea side...Sophia spotted something to tell Keiko about it.
Sophia: [Oh?]
Keiko: Sophia? What is it?
Sophia: [There's something buried in the sand. Can you try digging a bit?
Keiko: I'll see what I can do.
Digging something up from the sands...what luck, it was a pearl.
Akechi: Oh, a rare pearl. Something to hold on to forever.
Passing by to see it as well.
Keiko: A real pearl. Wow. Good eye, Sophia.
Then seeing the ocean's view from afar.
Sophia: [So, Keiko, this is one of those places that's going to stay in your heart, right? I can tell.]
Keiko: It is a nice view.
What's next...? Futaba was enjoying the sights from the beach view herself for Keiko and Sophia on how she was doing, this girl changed a lot in a good way.
Futaba: What'd you think of ocean life, Sophia?
Sophia: [There were so many fish! And smells and coral of all different colors, and patterns of light waving and shimmering through the water!]
An AI love the ocean life.
Futaba: Ooh, now neat! Glad to hear ya liked it. Ya know, everyone took me on a special trip to the beach last year.
When she got better to getting out more.
Keiko: I remember it so well.
Futaba: I'll remember that day for the rest of my life. It's when I first joined the Phantom Thieves.
Sophia: [That does sound like it would make for a very memorable day. I've got it-I'll commit today to my own memory. That way, I can cherish it forever.
What a cute way for Sophia to learn a lot.
Keiko and Futaba: Good idea!
They like it too. Same with Haru having a cool off after a well shaded sitting near the sun.
Haru: My, what a day today. I love beach time with all of my friends.
Who doesn't? Just know the rules to stay safe and such. Soon to run into Morgana on Akechi's end for Keiko and Sophia both catch up with them too...
Keiko: Akechi? Morgana?
Akechi: Sorry, we just spotted a weird sign here.
To say something from another path to somewhere that is.
Morgana: What the...? You're right, Akechi. What's that sign doing here?
Keiko: This sign?
Moving closer to it to say these things...
Morgana: "No entry beyond this point"?Well, if that's not suspicious...But, do you guys think it has anything to do with the research lab?
Maybe since the sign was there to not have anything bad in the area.
Akechi: Maybe so, Morgana. Otherwise, we would've known the danger to see and not enter at all. But there isn't any or to sense out. Keiko, you feel it too, right?
Keiko: I do. And a few others were here too.
Probably Ellen and Hans were to go through anytime without getting caught.
Akechi: And another thing, the police would've notified me and Master right away when we entered in Okinawa from earlier. Anyone working from other parts of the country has to be alter, and yet we didn't.
Another good detective work to hear about once again.
Sophia: [With the sun setting soon, going alone may be even risky.]
Morgana: That's true. And what you said there, Akechi, you maybe on to something big.
Akechi: Never doubt my great detective skills.
Morgana: So should we call everyone else over, then?
Might as well to show everyone else the weird thing.
Keiko: Sure, let's go do that. Sophia, if you would be so kind.
Sophia: [Okay, I'll contact everyone.]
A sign of no entry with no reason why was there, nothing was messy on the other side, Akechi and Zen not getting police notification about this, and the island with people acting weird all over...something was up. With the others showing up – Keiko, Sophia, Morgana, and Akechi show Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Futaba, Haru, and Zen everything as well as what they've learned so far. And little did any of them knew, for Hans and Ellen were spying on the other side to look around the parts themselves quietly.
Hans: Anything, Sister? I've found nothing hidden in the building. It's completely empty. It's a shame too see nice looking girls on the beach including Keiko and her other girl friends are all breath taking.
Ellen: Brother...We came to work, not goof around to see Keiko and Morgana are having fun. And no, I didn't find anything either other than people are acting weird and a sign that has a no entry at all. I don't understand any of this.
Hans: Neither do I. Fine, let's go relax some more on the beach like we did swimming, playing, baying in the sun, and so on until we can try again tonight.
Ellen: Another all nighter? Very well then.
Off they go on the other side of the place seeing that they might be on to something big, leaving the Phantom Thieves of their own investigation.
Ann: "No entry beyond this point"? I wonder what for?
Makoto: I admit, it only contributes to the mysterious vibe here...
Keiko: And sensing something off.
Something very off alright to get Akechi and Keiko to sense all of it.
Ryuji: Ooh, looks like a dare to me! C'mon, who's willing to go the farthest past it?
Akechi: I'm not so sure even if it was a game.
A bad idea for Akechi and Zen to both say so.
Zen: Nope, Goro's right. This is the end of the line. There's an utaki down that way. See there, on the sign?
Morgana: What's an utaki?
What is a "utaki"? I like to know that myself.
Zen: Basically, it's land that's been considered holy since the Ryukyu era. People used to believe the gods lived there, or at least came to Earth there. Locals still reverse the places, even today. Going down there for a laugh could get you in real trouble.
Akechi: Oh. I guess it's all true.
None of them ever heard of it before. But there was a rumor like it...someone who died was a beast who kept the island safe from danger if anyone did something very bad. It could be haunted, but it was still unknown today.
Ryuji: Ohhh, I never heard of that stuff here...I'm surprised you know all that.
Akechi: I only knew a little ghost story here and there.
Zen: Well, Investigation 101 says to know your territory. Feel free to keep buttering me up, though.
One officer knows others and the ace detective can solve another.
Haru: Does that mean there are Ryukyu-era customs still being precised today?
Zen: Yep. Reverence of the incomprehensible is ingrained deep in human consciousness. Well, I'm sure you have no interest in pissing off a god today. Let's all listen to the sign and get outta here.
Something about the story even for Akechi has him on to something to think about...
Akechi: How mystical, Master.
Keiko: And this is similar to that gate?
It was hard to say of the stories there and not knowing of the Guyver twins were already there. And as for Sophia's end...
Sophia: [I checked online for any relevant information, but this place does not appear to have any real significance. Other subjects here are far more interesting, such as the shape of the coastline, the sounds of the waves crashing, and the oceanic lifeforms.]
Keiko: Now that's a lot to say.
Zen: A person's values can affect what makes an impact on them. It might be insignificant to you, but to others, this place may very sacred.
That got to Sophia to think about on what Zen just said.
Sophia: [It depends on my values...]
Soon to hear someone's stomach growling, none other than Yusuke again.
Makoto: Oh, Yusuke...
Yusuke: My apologies.
Futaba: Inari's stomach, right on time as always...
They should go eat now and worry about the lab thing tomorrow then.
Ryuji: Well, I'm stravin', too. I'd bet we all worked up an appetite out there!
Ann: Should we finally kick off our long-awaited barbecue?
At long last, their summer vacation food plan was about to happen.
Keiko: Let's do it.
Morgana: Yes! It's barbecue time! I'm starving too.
Ryuji: Hell yeah! Time for an Okinawan meat festival!
Futaba: Don't forget the curry! We gotta make some Tropical Edition Leblanc Curry!
A lot to even ask Hans and Ellen 'as humans' to be invited if they're still around for Keiko to text message them both. Which was a nice idea for her to do as friends only, oh boy.
Makoto: Um, that's not exactly barbecue food...Also, didn't you already have curry on the ferry?
Yusuke: Hmph, I accept your challenge. Curry will be a perfect complement to the searing white sands of this tropical paradise!
Makoto: Come again...?
Saying curry on Futaba's end to make Yusuke hungry to have another one.
Akechi: I'm surprise Futaba still loves eating curry a lot.
Keiko: It's her thing.
Ryuji: That makes no sense at all! Seriously, what is with you two and curry?
I guess it's too good when Sojiro makes it more in Leblanc. It was time to head back to go eat.
Akechi: I guess Hirako and Eiko are waiting for us back at the beach. Let's go meet up with them.
Heading back now, Sophia wanted to say something to Keiko from her cell phone.
Keiko: Huh? Sophia?
Sophia: [Hey, Keiko]
Keiko: What's up? Can I help you?
Sophia: [Thank you for earlier. When you gave me the underwater tour. It was a fascinating experience-and something no AI could ever do on their own. I guess you could say it made my heart feel full. Although, I don't have a heart.]
Learning things to not having a heart it still makes Sophia just her AI self.
Keiko: But Sophia, that's not true. You do have a heart.
Sophia: [It is a simple fact. There is no need to attempt to spare the feelings I lack. I am still going to try to understand what feelings are though. I came to that realization when I first stared out at the sea. For example, being with you, and the other Phantom Thieves...It's quite...fun. Yes. Fun. Did I get that right?]
Keiko: That's right. I had fun too.
One thing to learn at a time, Sophia learn on how to have fun.
Sophia: [I've got it! I understand another emotion. Okay, I've memorized what "fun" is.]
She hums a happy tune again. And Ryuji calls out to the two girls to come join the others.
Ryuji: Heeey! Pick up the pace, Keiko! We've got a whole lotta cookin' ahead of us!
Keiko: We're coming! (We prepared our feast on the beach...)
Heading back and Hans and Ellen getting the message as well in their human form.
Hans: Ah...An invite to Keiko's cook out, how sweet...
Ellen: Fine, we'll go. Good friends to keep around for those reasons when we change the world, and pat the cute Morgana...!
And so, the two meet up with Keiko and the others to have the best summer of a barbecue feast ever 'and Sophia studying the foods on her end'. The best BBQ meat feast to curry to make this meal the best ones for the Guyver twins to really like the taste of it all. For them, Morgana, Keiko, Akechi, Zen, Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Futaba, and Haru were having a good time.
Keiko: So, what do you two think?
Hans: So good...! Keiko, I wish you can make more of this for me-!
Trying to make a move on Keiko, Ellen stops Hans in time to love her brother more.
Ellen: We're grateful, Keiko, thanks. Hey, Morgana, do you want some...?
Being a bit too cute around Morgana to not like it.
Morgana: Ah...What is she trying to do with me? She's not my type!
Too bad they don't understand what Morgana's saying at all. Getting this much attention like a cat, Ellen loves cute things too much and he doesn't want this many attention at all.
Akechi: This girl really loves cats.
Morgana: And I'm not a cat!
Hans: Sister, it's their pet, not yours...
And the brother tries to keep his sister under control.
Ellen: I still want to be friends with him! ...Thank you again for inviting us, guys.
Keiko: It was nothing, Ellen, really. Both you and Hans seem to be friends already during our summer trip.
Still enjoying the meal while talking sometimes.
Ryuji: Oh man, thish meat ish sho good!
Loving the meat food for Ryuji to take some from his own girlfriend.
Ann: Hey! You saw me about to grab that piece!
And they still love each other.
Ellen: What's with those two?
Akechi: Their own way to love each other.
A lot to learn about it too.
Yusuke: The curry is divine as always...and with these leftovers, we're sure to dine on curry udon tomorrow!
Hans: I must say, curry hand made is special to never stop making...Well done.
Futaba: And let's ignore the fact that you're already planning tomorrow's dinner-why not add deep-fried tofu for Inari Curry Udon?
Hans: And you two sure tease each other a lot.
Keiko: Oh, them? They just good friends to be like brother and sister almost to care.
And another to see how others get along in their own way like Futaba and Yusuke do a lot.
Haru: We've been eating nothing but the most delicious food since this trip began.
Makoto: Traveling makes it a lot easier to lose track of one's diet...I should be more careful.
Yusuke: You're still fine to still do so, Ms. Makoto.
From love, friendship, food, and caring about other things in life too.
Ellen: I agree. Us girls need to stay in shape no matter what. Am I right or what?
Ann: Huh? But you're so toned, Makoto! Same with Ellen, you can get a boyfriend someday to have your brother worry.
Ellen: Ann, I can get tips from you at anytime to eat right and keep our bodies looking good.
This has this girl smiling at least.
Ann: Thanks, Eiko. I do Us girls known what's right and wrong. Right, Keiko?
Keiko: Yeah, Makoto! You look pretty ripped of a female fighter and a model combined.
Yusuke: No comment for my true love.
Well, yeah. Keiko cute looking, Ann has good boobs, Makoto's butt, Futaba's style, and Haru with her personality. Is what makes them really good of a character for each of them.
Makoto: *gasp* Oh, stop! Keiko-Chan...And Yusuke, I know you're trying to flatter me, but there's an actual model here! Don't embarrass me like that!
Hans: To my taste in women is anything goes. Cute, beautiful, caring, looks, and feelings.
He has trouble getting someone to really fall in love with.
Ryuji: I mean, who cares if you've packed on a few extra pounds? It probably gives you punches some extra oomph!
Ann: Ryuji!
This has Ann hitting Ryuji on the head for saying that, same with Hans too.
Hans: For shame, young man! Even in front of your girlfriend too.
Yusuke: How dare you talk to Ms. Makoto like that!
Akechi: Now you've done it...
I think from the guys defending Makoto, she fights back from Ryuji's dumb saying there.
Makoto: Wanna test your theory?
Ryuji: No, please! I don't!
Ellen: Ha! If you weren't dating...You, Sakamoto aren't my type to go out with.
Ryuji: Eiko, come on!
Ann: If we know some charm from Hirako, I would fall for him. But Ryuji's the one for me.
Lesson learn and to never say to a girl at all.
Hans: Well, I'll take those sweet words nicely. Thank you, Takamaki. Now let's keep on enjoying our meals.
Ellen: Carefully of course. But sure, why not.
What a fun time of a summer barbecue.
Sophia: [This is fun. With the twins however...I still get a very strange feeling about them, and I don't know why.]
Zen: I love this curry.
As the minutes pass by to eat their food and just relaxing...What a fun beach time and with friends 'to not know who's who yet'. While chatting to have other people near the RV to catch Zen and Hans' attention on their own ends...
Hans: … (Those humans feel a bit off for some reason...)
Zen: ...
There were three of male people acting odd.
Ellen: (Brother senses something is off, I do too.)
The twins keep to themselves, while Morgana sees on what was Zen's mind.
Morgana: What is it, Zenkichi? Upset stomach?
Akechi: Master?
Zen: Hmm? Oh, nah...
Makoto: Something bothering you?
The twins acted like they too notice as well on Zen's end.
Zen: It's probably nothing. Let's wrap up-we oughta wake up early tomorrow. And Saitou twins, nice seeing you guys again. (Strange, I feel something odd about them more compare to these people behind us.)
Ann: Okay...
So he does feel something about the Guyver twins a bit to not know of their identities yet, the same with Sophia as well.
Hans: Well, we'll be off for now. Thank you again for invited us, and we'll see you later. Good night, ladies.
Ellen: Yep, getting tired now. Let's go, Brother. Bye everyone, and goodbye Morgana.
With them leaving to hide somewhere in the motel rooms, while Zen had to tell the others on what was really going on.
Zen: (I'll worry about them later.) Hey, guys. Somethin' up.
Keiko: Zenny?
Ryuji: Yeah, what's that?
Zen: Keep it down-and listen. I think...
He tells them everything to keep in mind and quiet at all times.
Akechi: Master, please tell us. (I'll have a word with him soon about who side he's on.)
A lot to do later, but this comes first on what Zen tells the Phantom Thieves on something was way off. Same with Hans and Ellen to be watched on.
Ellen: Brother?
Hans: I know, Sister. Listen, I think someone's behind this.
Ellen: I know what you mean. A story is told in this area. A god appeared to lived amongst the humans to treat them well if they do some good, but if they do something bad to it, the god does bad things. Left since then to have others get sick, killed, things destroyed, and so on; and since then made a shrine to keep its memories alive to never let anything greed ruined this island again.
So that's the whole story...
Hans: It also had it from the night all five of us with one man, the two scientists we have today, and two other women to aid all of us who were born with powers. One died, two went missing, and us two became something unreal. He's out there...
Ellen: You mean...! "He's" alive?
Hans: Shuzo Ubukata. Maybe he's not human in the real world anymore, but in the Metaverse he's-!
Ellen: Then I say we get to work before these humans try murdering us. We can't stop now, Shuzo's Shadow has to be stopped.
Hans: Then tonight, we make a move to his Jail...The Jail of the Undead...
A lot of planning from the twins and the Phantom Thieves. So, what do you guys think? Are the Guyver twins truly evil? I still get an bad feeling about the other two scientists – Hooded Man and Mistress. Who were they really? Also, who was Shuzo Ubukata for the twins to know about from a few years ago? With a Jail on someone who's dead too? A lot to be done and the story to have all of the villagers to be acting very weird, and probably scary behaviors. Well, more to come around next time for Raiho, Loki, Kaguya, and Picaro to detect another Jail in Okinawa which could be from the late Shuzo if so...Maybe another Shadow being on whatever this place is and another Golden Key of Sages of the Six Medallion Kings? There's only two more left so more to come next time.