AN: I don't have much to say this round, just to stay cool viewers.

Relax have a cup of tea, and feel the ground fade away, as your mind flies into madness. You are now under control, and will serve me will in this beautiful Wonderland.

Guest: I agree wholeheartedly with you. The gotham villains would fear the thieves more than Batman due to them forcing them to reflect on their sins. I am absolutely using that for this story.

Guest: You are correct about how the personas are already superhuman. I'm building up to more use of the personas itself though. It should be explained in this chapter.

WARNING: if you have problems with graphic violence, gore, language, the mention/act of rape, or other very extreme situations advert your eyes. The Dark Knight deserves a dark story and I will not disappoint.

I do not own the Persona series or Batman

EDIT: my edits are cool as...drawing a blank *shrugs*

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April 10th, Early Morning

"THIS IS GOTHAM IN THE MORNING!" the announcer blared through the screen.

"Good morning Gotham! I'm Sally Summers and this is my grumpy co-host Jack Ryder" Sally said cheerfully, waving over to the man at the same desk as her. He barely managed to sneak alcohol into his morning coffe at the station.

"Hello! I'm Jack Ryder. Pulitzer prize winning journalist, bringing you the latest in Gotham news." Jack said, faking a smile. He always did this try to relive his glory days back when ratings didn't matter.

"Oh stop!" Sally said through a fake smile, faking her way through the prompter. They both hated each other, but this is the best gig she had, and she wouldn't let some has-been ruin her shot.

"The weather forecast shows a massive spike in torrential rain in the evening. Looks like Gotham's famous rain has made quite a comeback this spring eh Jack?"

"Yep, but that's Gotham for you, it wouldn't be the same without its rain always beating Seattle for the most average rainfall per year." He snarked.

"Ha ha ha! Yes! I just love the rain here!" She forcefully laughed.

"Looks like it's going to be overcast for the foreseeable future. It's a shame though, I know Jack needs to work on his tan." she quipped sharply.

Jack glared at her through his breaking smile.

"Yup! A shame we can't get an early start to going to the beautiful Gotham beaches!" he said

"In other news, crime is on the rise in the knight. Notable vigilante Batman, has been out more and more as of late. Joker had two nuns poisoned on what is being called a new version of the Joker toxin. Jack, thoughts?

"What can I say about Batman and Joker that hasn't been said a million times. I also have reports of teen initiates for the Black Mask gang. Seems they start younger and younger eh Sally?"

"Eh, yes. The mass of missing cases has been growing as well. Though findings in those same people wearing white bunny masks leads us to believe the Mad Hatter is making a comeback. Along with that the Riddler has also left multiple trophies across the city." Sally added.

"Seems like green is in this season" Jack darkly jokes. The producer gave him a glare and pointed to the prompter, silently demanding to stick to his lines.

"I also have reports of a new female vigilante saving a police officer. The press has fittingly named her "Metal Rider". As footage shows the woman wearing a strange metal mask while riding an even stranger motorbike. If you have any information about any of these cases please contact your local law enforcement." Jack said obeying for now.

"In lighter news multiple captures in the Black Mask gang have been prosecuted by city-beloved prosecutor Harvey Dent. We have also heard rumors of a possible mayoral campaign with him at the head." Sally said.

"With the questionable at best behavior of mayor Hamilton Hill and the scandal surrounding his attempt to fire Commissioner James Gordon, Dent has my vote for sure, we need someone who will be uncorrupted in the decrease of crime in this town." Jack said.

"Now, now let's not get too political. The people of Gotham are all excited to see the remake of the famous movie "The Terror" with notable Gotham horror-actor Basil Karlo. After these messages we'll have an exclusive preview with an interview with MR. Karlo. So stay tuned!" Sally winked at the camera.

"And CUT!" the director yelled.

"The hell was that! Making such horrid jokes?!" Sally glared at Ryder

"I need to get some enjoyment out of this fucking show" Ryder pulled out a cigarette and prepared to light it. Sally snatched it and threw it to the ground.

"Look, just because you used to be some big-wig back in the day doesn't mean you can just say whatever you want! People watch this show for comfort." she pressed.

"People watch this show to live in the delusion that Gotham isn't the giant cesspool that it is. We have no younger audience, everyone who watches this show is over fifty living high in the sky. While the rest of the population tunes out, they know this isn't the truth. This is why the news industry is dying!" Jack shouted.

"Just because it's not all blood and gore doesn't mean it's not important." Sally argued.

"I beg to differ, I don't give a shit about the weather or what new movie is coming out! I care about staying alive. The audience agrees with me!" Jack screamed.

"Than why don't you fuck of and do what Vicki Vale does? Oh, wait you would never get her ratings would you? Because people can't stand you on account of being an irredeemable douche!" Sally screamed.

"The only reason people watch her show is to stare at those large fake breasts of hers. She thinks she the hottest shit in town but I know the producers only gave her that fucking show to be eye candy during the massacres that happen during the night."

"That's why you'll never be successful Ryder, you're too damn jaded." Summers snarked.

"I'm realistic, and I need a smoke to deal with your bullshit." Jack said coldly before walking off set.

"Do we really need him?" Sally asked.

"Don't worry. We can't stand him either by the end of the month Jack's gone." The producer said. He was tired of Jack too, everything he said was true, and he didn't appreciate being called out like that. If Jack didn't keep his little mouth shut after they let him go, the producer would have to arrange a happy accident on Ryder in Crime Alley.

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April 10th, Morning

Batcave

Cloudy

Cassandra's eyes shot open, the world regaining its form in her mind. She was in the Batcave, she was hurting like hell, and she was pissed. That girl one upped her, she promised to herself to never let it happen again. She tried to get up but Alfred stopped her.

"Please stay still Mistress Cain, I need to finish your stitches." the butler said calmly.

"Hurry it up I'm going back out there." She demanded.

"It's already morning Mistress. Also you took quite a beating, if you get up now you'll surely worsen your wounds."

"That girl got the best of me. She's going down, hard." The fire in her eyes raged on.

"I have every intention of letting you. But first you need to heal up." Bruce said still in his bat costume but missing the mask.

"Sensei, I'm sorry I failed you. I won't let it happen again." Cain said ashamed.

"You didn't fail me, you worried me. What happened?" Bruce asked.

"I was spotted following her somehow, she demanded discussion face to face. I saw no reason not to humor her in order to get information regarding her. I extended an olive branch much like you would. She said she could never join what she calls 'at best a gang, or at worst a cult'. Said there was no way for a man to control a city absolutely. So I went to take her in by force." Cass explained.

"How would you rank her as a priority?" he pressed.

"I can't say for certain yet. She has a good knowledge of Akiko but nothing else. I thought she just had healing powers after she saved that officer. But she had another power up her sleeve, a way to slow down my body, and weakening my form. It felt like I was five again, no way to defend myself from the onslaught. Who knows what else she has in store." Cass continued.

"I'll mark her as a C-grade priority for now. I won't go out of my way to find her, as I saw the footage. While dangerous, I don't see her killing anyone. Especially with how she saved the officer with such relentlessness. But if I find her before you do…" Bruce glared.

"Thank you for this chance Sensei! I'll train hard in meta preparations, the footage should make for a good combat situation anyway." Cass smiled.

"But I want you to heal up first. Damian will take point for anything that I can't take care of. Alfred, watch over her, I have a meeting to get to." Bruce went out to change.

"Of course sir." Alfred answered.

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April 10th, Midday

Diamond District

Cloudy

"This is Violet checking in, I have located the Red Rose club. Sending the address now." Sumire said looking across the street at the club. Everyone agreed to have a clean sweep of the Diamond District as it was where Panther was chased down. It was daylight so they couldn't use their costumes for the search. Sumire was troubled by just how empty the whole place looked on the outside. No guards wearing white rabbit masks could be seen anywhere around the area.

Then again it would be a dead giveaway.

"Good work, heading there now." Joker responded. The gang all meet up in an alleyway close to the club.

"Kind of unassuming isn't it?" Yusuke asked.

"I guess it makes sense they don't want to give away their location." Haru pondered.

"Let's get this over with," Akechi pressed impatiently.

Joker pulled out his phone and did the necessary typing.

"BEGINNING NAVIGATION" the phone chimed. The whole area seem to swirl with red and black. The change affected buildings, all of them changing into enormous trees. The sky changed to a clear blue. The Red Rose club turned into a large hole to fall into.

"Welcome initiates, to the entrance to wonderland! If you follow me I'll show to the screening process." Said a shadow wearing a white rabbit mask. It was like it was carved out of the trees around it, like a puppet without strings. It jumped into the hole becoming the thieves.

"It'd obviously trap," Crow said.

"Yes, but for now lets play along with it, try to gather more information," Queen replied.

Joker led the path into the giant hole in the ground, jumping in was a long fall much like in the beginning of the book. A long downward tunnel filled with random tables and chairs.

They landed safely on the ground, a large leaf halting their fall.

"*pant* that was not pleasant" Noir gasped out, she didn't want to bring up her newly acquired fear of heights, she pushed it down and dealt with it. Anyone would be afraid of a long fall after what she has been through. She took a moment to gather herself.

"Noir are you alright?" Panther asked, going over to her.

"Yes, let's continue." Noir answered straightening back up. The crew noticed a vial of liquid standing on a pedestal. A sign that sign "Drink Me" hung by a piece of string attached to it.

"All initiates must drink from the vial. Or suffer the consequences." a loud voice boomed.

"I'm getting readings of a powerful enemy nearby. What should we do Joker?" Oracle asked.

"First off teams. If this is a trap I want to be prepared. Noir, Crow you're up front as you have the most resistance to psy attacks. Queen will finish the starting party, if you get a nuke hit we'll be golden. The rest of you provide backup."

Joker stated.

"It's either a shrinking agent as reference to the book. Or a possible hypnosis enhancer, we have plenty of medical cures for brainwash. Though I'm a bit hesitant to drink this." Queen said.

"Best play along for now, worst comes to worse we fight a weakling." Crow said drinking the vial. He shrunk down fast, the rest of the thieves seeming like giants when he noticed a door his size.

"How's the weather down there baby bird?" Oracle joked.

"It seems the only way forward is through this tiny door. The rest of you should follow me." Crow ignored the tease and pressed on. The thieves followed suit entering the door with the sign that said "Happy Tea Time".

"Does everyone have a seat? Good. Now relax and enjoy the show." a shadow said at the front of a prompter. Many more were seated in rows some all were bound and gagged.

"We already have obedient initiates it seems, try to follow their example and smile. You're never fully dressed without one." The shadow said. The projector filled the room as green and purple swirls drowned the room silencing the struggling shadows.

"OBEY, OBEY, OBEY" The voice boomed.

"I don't think we'll get much further on this route not without losing our sanity that is. Let's just beat him. Skull is already starting to slip." Crow said looking at Skull who was beginning to drool.

Joker agreed and rushed the announcer and removed its mask. The shadow screamed transforming into a purple striped cat. Its form made entirely made out of wood, it gave off the illusion of floating but strings could be seen hanging from an unknown source. The cat had an unnerving smile that stretched ear to ear.

"Oh? It seems we have dissenters. Fear not initiates, relax and let me turn that frown upside down." The cat said spinning its head in a 360 degree turn, while two more shadows popped out beside it, the brainwashing signs clear above their heads.

"GET THEM!" the cat screamed.

"COME ARDHA! COSMIC FLARE!" Shouted Joker pulling his mask off revealing the dual-gendered god. They performed a swipe together filling the room with giant blue explosions. Though only the cat showed signs of damage.

"My ward it has no effect on the creature's minions" the god stated.

"Huh?! It talked? I don't recall ever hearing that one speak." Noir said, shocked flipping over a swing from the large cat.

"Focus on the mission! We'll worry about that later." Crow said parrying a minions blow with his serrated sword.

"Nuke is ineffective, the Cheshire Cat was the only one damaged, The others seem to block the nuke power!" Queen shouted, going for a Flash Bomb on the group. The area filled with light for a moment, but the effect was clear. While the Cheshire cat resisted physical attacks the minions didn't.

"We have an opening! EAT THIS!" Crow shouted, pulling out his Riot Gun attack. It did a good amount of damage on the two minions, but reflected off the Cheshire Cat.

"GAAHA! Shit! Guns are no good." Crow croaked, clutching his chest.

"Come Lucy! Life wall!" Noir shouted, preparing the party for whatever the enemy would throw.

"Tweedle Dee, Tweedle Dum! Don't you dare fail me! Defeat these defectives at all cost!" shouted Cheshire. The two minions seem to grow three sizes and gained an attack buff.

"I MUST OBEY!" Said Tweedle Dee casting a massive fire attack on the party. It was reflected thanks to Noir's plan, hitting them right back hard.

"GAAAA! You idiot!" Seems Cheshire is weak to fire as he was now downed.

"Attack to kill!" Tweedle Dum casted a string ice attack freezing Queen. She shivered in place.

"That's more like it. Happy Faces on!" The cat recovered a massive physical attack on the party, earning a technical from Queen's frozen state.

"HAHAHA! OBEY!" The cat laughed casted a brainwashing spell. It hit hard on Crow, his resistance did nothing.

"GAAH! Who do I shoot?!" Crow screamed confused.

Joker ignored it for now trying to go for the kill. "ATTIS BLAZING HELL!" he shouted his dismembered persona unleashing hellfire upon the enemies, downing Tweedle Dum, and more importantly the Cheshire Cat.

"Noir, try a spell, go for the technical on the last minions." Joker said high-fiving her.

"Roger, MAPSIODYNE!" What started as a technical grew into a slaughter all of the enemies seemed to be weak to psychic attacks. The three remaining party members went for the All-out attack. They were now a good half-way to the battle.

Queen took this opportunity to slam some sense into Crow healing his ailment.

"No time for thanks." he coldly said.

"One is still burning, I'm going for the kill!" Queen screamed unleashing a massive nuke onto Tweedle Dum. He died instantly.

"Brother NOOOO!" screamed Tweedle Dee.

"Noir let's finish this!" Queen shouted, passing the baton.

"PERSONA!" Noir shouted, unleashing her psychic powers on the remaining foes.

"GAA! Dammit!" Shouted the Cheshire Cat.

"Shall we?" Noir smugly said as they finished the battle with a final adieu.

The dust settled on the battleground the enemies lay defeated and the Phantoms were about to push ahead when something grabbed Joker's leg.

"Wait! Don't go yet I have something to say!" It was the Cheshire cat though instead of being made of wood it seemed to have gained back its wooly fur.

"Are you not dead yet? Let me help you with that." Crow coldly stated putting his gun to the cat's head.

"Please... I wasn't in control. The ruler of this place captured me. Convinced me by force to do this like I was about to do to you. I'm sorry." the cat looked ashamed.

"It seems the hypnosis is worse than expected even those who seem to be enjoying the palace are under control of the Hatter." Queen sighed.

"This was supposed to be a simple job. But this guy is just fucked up in the head. When I confronted him he hypnotized me, same as all the others. Some are bad people like me, but others we stole innocents off the streets. People with families, some just couldn't take the mental strain." The cat continued.

"You mean?" Queen asked hesitantly.

"They end up insane or braindead. Forever drooling and staring off into space. Well...until we throw them into Gotham Bay. Then they have a choice: drown or turn into shark food." The cat admitted.

"No…" Noir cried.

"The best way into this place is to either sneak or act the part of the gang. They're all pretty one-track minded. The brainwashing makes sure of that. Have these they'll help you." Cheshire Cat handed them some bunny masks to wear.

"Honestly, I don't think you'll get out of there alive. I'm getting the fuck outta here before they capture me again. Later losers!" The cat gave its wicked grin before making its escape.

"I sense a safe room nearby!" Oracle said.

"Perfect, let's gather ourselves for a moment." Queen said, watching the cat run away.

"The voices, the voices. They give little choices. Am I still kind? O-of course OF COURSE! I am of the soundest mind!" A different voice than the cat boomed through the palace.

"Sounds like the Hatter is in denial over his lack of sanity, wonder what other sins he needs to confess." Crow pondered. They made their way into the safe room to prepare for whatever else this twisted version of Wonderland had in store.

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April 10th, Midday

Wayne Tower

Cloudy

Bruce struggled to stay awake during this meeting. Sometimes he would sleep for two reasons, the other was because of a long night before, the other was to cement the image of the irresponsible playboy he did his best to portray. This meeting was important however, the board talking about their newest innovations in security, along with what else to do to bolster its positive image in the eyes of the Gotham people.

That was the one thing about Bruce Wayne that kept him his seat as CEO. Other than his heritage he was a great charmer that clearly cared about the deep roots his family had in the city. Multiple charities, research, and scholarships were in place in this foundation to give this city hope. And it was all Wayne's idea, the board viewed him as a valuable wild card in it's pursuits of profit dominance. But right now he was asleep, leaving the reins to his valued right hand man Lucius Fox.

No one argues with Fox, he has worked his way up the totem pole of this company since he was 18 years old. He has the respect of the public, the board, and the media. In everyone's eyes he was the true CEO of Wayne Enterprises.

"That concludes this meeting." Lucius released the board for the day, looking at his sleeping friend. He'll give a summary later, there were more important matters. He waited for the room to clear, locked the door and walked over to Bruce. He slammed his fist on the table startling Bruce.

Bruce immediately went into attack position, but was far enough to miss Lucius. Lucius chuckled at his little prank.

"My Mr. Wayne it seems your reflexes have dulled in the past years." Lucius raised an eyebrow at his boss's antics.

"Hmm. How'd the meeting go?" Bruce asked, pinching his eyes closed from the light that filled the building. He really needed some coffee, he heard of a new place in town that sounded good. Leblanc it was called if he remembered correctly, he'd send an intern to get some for him.

"Well. I'll give you a summary later. Right now we have more pressing matters. Regarding your newly tailored suit." Lucius said.

Bruce was more alert at that. R&D was on the cusp of something great with the new Bat-suit. He appreciated the hard work they put into it. Money was no object, and he had a tight ship of excellent developers. Under the guise of working on new gear for the military, Wayne was always the first to test them in the field.

"After you." Bruce said. The two men went to a much more secret sector of the building ready to do some regular illegal activities.

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April 10th, Midday

Chinatown

Cloudy

The intern drove hastily towards the new coffee shop in town, leave it to Wayne to want coffee from all the way on the other side in town. He pushed through the cafe door the bell chiming at the action. The place was its usual dusty and desolate self. Not a soul in the place to speak of.

At least I don't have to wait. All there is to worry about is traffic.

The man walked up to the counter, an older asian man was standing there smoking and reading a newspaper.

"What'll it be?" Sojiro asked, not looking up from his paper.

"What do you recommend for rich assholes?" the intern snarked.

Sojiro looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "One house blend coming up."

"Make it three would you? This place popped up the last couple of weeks yeah?" the intern asked, deciding to make conversation.

"Yup, you'd be surprised how much business there is in the mornings. I'm talking like four people." Sojiro jokes. The intern laughed at that.

"Ah, just wait a bit. If Gotham likes one thing it's a cup of joe. The poor, the rich, the thugs, the cops, everyone scrambles for it here. Hell, I heard Batman busted into a cafe once, slammed down a couple bucks demanding a cup." The intern said.

"No shit? That's hilarious. I bet the waiter was pissing their pants." Sojiro laughed.

"I know I would. I heard it made a huge profit for the place though. They changed the name to the Bat Cafe." the intern continued.

"Figures. Well here's your order" said Sojiro.

The intern paid and said his goodbyes. Leaving Sojiro to the peace and quiet he secretly wanted back.

"Sheesh, leave it to the kids to drop me somewhere where everyone wants coffee at the same time." he said. He just wanted his little spot in an alley back. Well he was still in an alley on the backroads, but it was the principle.

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April 10th, Midday

Wonderland

Purple Skies

The Phantom Thieves were discussing their plan of action in the safe room. The safe was ironically enough a fancy room with a table intricately set with tea and crumpets. The thrive didn't touch the spread though in fear of it being some mind altering substance.

"I forgot to ask but is the Hatter british?" Panther asked.

"I don't think so. Since the guy denying his insanity, has a very american accent booming throughout the palace." Oracle said.

"I wonder what can make a man so obsessed with a book? I know he has a severe mental condition but to be so focused on one thing in that state?" Queen asked.

"It's probably something personal, something that means a lot to him. Maybe his mother read it to him as a child as a child, or something along those lines." Crow hunched.

"Sounds right, we ought to know sooner or later though. We are already a third of a way through the palace." Mona said.

"Hmm. It concerns me just how many people he has killed in his state. When his heart changes it's going to be a devastating blow on his already broken mind. I can't help but feel bad for him." Violet said, concerned.

"I agree, but this is the best course of action, we've barely begun and we already confirmed that he is responsible for the mass of missing people. Along with that he's killed a multitude of people as a result. I empathize with a man with a lost mind. However, he clearly needs immediate help before he causes more harm." Noir concluded. Everyone agreed to that and prepared to get up.

"Wait, Joker I have concerns regarding our personas. If you could answer some questions I had." Queen said.

"I'll do my best," Joker said.

"Well, we've all noticed that your personas talk much more than usual. I personally have experienced this with Agnes, when she alerted me that Batgirl was following me. I was wondering if Igor or Lavenza has told you anything regarding this?" Queen asked.

"Hey yeah. I've noticed new things with Celestine too. It's like her fire is always keeping me warm in the pouring rains of the city. I didn't feel the cold at all." Panther said.

"Lavenza talked to me about the personas in the Velvet Room. They are all enraged, more than ever at our situation. Seems Bat-mite's infuriating nature has changed the game in ways we do not yet understand. They don't know much, but it seems the personas are gaining more of a mind of their own. That in their anger they are straining the bonds to us in order to provide more of an assistance. Let me know if anything out of the ordinary pops up." Joker explained.

"A mind of it's own hmm? Like losing our powers?" Crow asked.

"I don't think so. The way Lavenza phrased it our personas want to help us more. In whatever way they can. It goes with how strong their rebellion is with the new god inhabiting the space. Yaldaboath at least shielded himself to keep them calm. Bat-mite however, seems to enjoy stirring their anger. Fueling their immense hatred for him. Also he brought us to a whole new world, allowing us to use our personas on the outside. Who knows what other rules he has changed." Mona added grimly.

"Had a little family bonding with your sister eh?" Joker teased.

"Oh! Yeah, sorry I meant to tell you, just with everything going on I kinda forgot." Mona said flattening his ears in embarrassment.

"It's fine. Let's get going, the same team as before." Joker said.

They headed outside ready to face whatever may come next. The moment they went out of the hypnosis chamber of the palace they were greeted with a large forest filled with massive glowing mushrooms. The shadows take multiple forms that took inspiration from the book . Mostly the flowers and creatures that inhabited the forest.

"Find me Alice. Make her mine. Find me Alice. The real one this time." The voice boomed once more.

"The real one? The hell does that mean?" asked Skull.

No one could answer as shadows swarmed the group focusing on Panther.

"WE FOUND HER! WE FOUND ALICE!" one shadow shouted

"Not this again…" Panther groaned out.

The team busted through a multitude of shadow swarms. It was a wear down for the entire ensemble. Queen was down at the moment and Crow moved to heal her as they finished off the last of the shadows. But they both were shot down leaving Panther and Skull to finish them off with Joker and Noir.

"Thank you." She said to Crow. It wasn't over yet as a cognition of a scantily clad bunny girl showed itself.

"Worthless! Guess I got to bring Alice myself. Why are you fighting my dears, my lord just wants to show you his love!" the cognitive White Rabbit said.

"I keep telling you guys I'm NOT ALICE!" Panther shouted desperately.

"Of course you are dear, along with your blonde friend you are both Alice! You must come with me for our special tea!" She demanded

"WHAT?! I'M NOT EVEN A CHICK!" Skull screamed shocked.

"You two worry about things that can be easily fixed. Like names and gender. Come with me and I'll make you both beautiful!" White Rabbit responded.

"You're not taking my friends. Come on this should be the last one!" Joker said, attacking the shadow.

The shadow screamed transforming into a giant puppet rabbit. It glared down the thieves that dared keep her away for her Alice.

"You thieves dare take the lord's Alice! I'll defeat you and bring them to him!" the rabbit screamed. It slammed down onto Joker trying to do some damage but was resisted by his persona Ardha. It was a mighty blow all the same.

Joker countered with a powerful nuke blast but it was reflected back to him dealing even more damage. "AAGG!" he steamed

"Joker hang in there!" Panther said healing him up completely, this one was strong. And they needed to find a weakness fast.

"I ain't down for this tea shit. COME ON WILLIAM!" Skull shouted, trying to deal a mighty blow to the rabbit only for it to evade it easily.

"Oh why must we fight Alice? Be a good girl and obey!" She countered Skull with a special psychic move. The blast really hurt Skull, brainwashing him in the process.

"Huh? I-I'm Alice?" Skull asked, unsure of himself.

"There, much better, now all we need is to grow that hair out and get you out of those atrocious clothes!" White Rabbit said pleased.

"Skull's brainwashed! This is bad! And super weird. I wish he'd stop posing like that. It's creeping me out." Mona said looking disturbed at Skull spinning daintily flipping an imaginary skirt.

"I'll return the favor. LUCY!" Noir shouted, sending out a heavy psychic blast to the rabbit. It seemed to be weak to it as most of the shadows were in the palace.

"SHE'S DOWN LET'S GET HER!" Noir shouted as the three of them did an All-out attack.

"It's not enough! CELESTINE, BURN HER TO A CRISP!" shouted Panther unleashing hellfire upon her foe. It was super effective; the wooden rabbit was now on fire.

"It's burning! Follow up with wind to do major damage!" Queen advised.

The baton was passed to Joker who summoned Vishnu.

"VACUUM WAVE!" Joker unleashed a giant tornado upon his opponent bringing it down.

"LET'S DO IT!" He shouted and they all attacked. Skull frollicking in the fields.

"Aggh, no… it can't be Alice please…" The rabbit begged Panther, who scowled back.

"I will not be forced to be someone I'm not. DIE!" Panther shouted back, the three unleashing a hail of bullets upon the rabbit ending the battle.

"UGGHH! Th-Thank you." Whited Rabbit croaked out before succumbing to her wounds.

"Well, that was something. Can someone snap Skull out of his dreamland?" Oracle asked.

"*Giggle* Of course Mr. Hatter I would love to have tea with you!" Skull said, creeping out the rest of the group greatly. It was quite a sight seeing him like this, a total reversal of his attitude.

Fox went over to him and slapped him.

"Come Skull, snap out of it!" he shouted, slapping him some more. Skull just started crying like a kid being punished. Until a more hard slap snapped him out of the spell.

"Ughhh… freakin' head hurts dude. Thanks." Skull said. He was still kind of out of it needing to lean on Fox for support.

"Hey, are you ok? I've never seen a brainwash like that before." Panther walked up concerned.

"Give me a minute. Shit was messed up. I completely forgot my whole life. Though I was some young girl for a while there. I didn't do anything embarrassing did I?" he asked hesitantly.

"It was most unpleasant." Noir said looking away.

"Got to say Skull, never knew you have a feminine side." Mona said cheekily.

"Ugh… no joking can we not talk about this...ever?" Skull asked, pleading.

"Yeah, yeah… I guess we can let you off the hook." Mona said.

"This is concerning. When I interrogated the White Rabbit she said they were looking for blondes with blue eyes. Skull only has one and it's dyed. With the fact they don't care about gender, I wonder how they would go about "fixing" that." Crow said.

Skull gulped at the implications. The rest of the group was horrified. Joker went to comfort his long-time friend, knowing he needed a moment of comfort for the what-ifs of the scenario.

"This man becomes more and more demented by the second." Violet said sadly.

"Let's rest up for a moment," Joker said, leading them to a nearby safe room.

The team needed a reprieve from the upsetting nature of this man.

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April 10th, Midday

Wayne Tower

Cloudy

"This coffee… man, whoever made this has got to be a master."

It wasn't easy to impress Bruce Wayne. But he had to admit, this stuff blew his company's coffee shops out of the water. He wouldn't be surprised if they ran his food places out of business.

"Perhaps they can teach you their ways Mr. Wayne. Jokes aside, it does have a special something doesn't it?" Lucius said, taking another sip. He would have to make a move to buy this place soon, lest Lex Luthor discovers it first. No way is he taking such a slam dunk away from Wayne Enterprises.

"Anyway back to business." Bruce threw the empty cup into a trash can going up to Lucius ready to see the new improvements.

"Right this way Mr. Wayne." Fox led him through an assortment of security checks and coded doors. Could never be too careful with a new suit after all. He scanned his hand and a secret panel in the wall opened up revealing the new and improved suit.

"She's beautiful." Wayne complimented. The suit had the famous black and grey paint one would need for a bat-suit. The black emblem spread across the crest. It would be an obvious attraction for thug's bullets, that's why it was a trick and the most protected.

"The suit is very breathable now. One of your main complaints was durability and adaptability. You needed too many calls from the Batwing to order supplies. While we can't really help with that the suit is much and heat insulated. Very harsh heat and cold will be shielded. We've managed to develop kevlar that is very light but much stronger allowing for maximum effectiveness and protection. With all the alien tech you acquired from the Justice League we were bound to make some breakthrough somewhere." Fox began.

"The gauntlets I'm most proud of. They offer an electric charge, nostalgic from the days you borrowed from the Electrocutioner. Additionally the freeze blaster from has been improved as well. Theoretically, you could take out a room of people with the blast now. The cape is also more versatile allowing it to take more gunfire before being ineffective as a glider.

"You've out done yourself Lucius." Wayne complimented.

"Don't thank me, thank the R&D team. They've been working night and day for these improvements. I think a raise is in order." Lucius.

"Yes, do what you can to keep these guys on our payroll. Would hate to lose any of them." Wayne said.

"Will do." Lucius said.

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April 10th, Midday

Wonderland

Purple Skies

The thieves made their way to a strange door with an outline of a girlish figure carved into it.

"Find Alice, renew our connection. Find Alice, renew her perfection," the voice boomed.

The thieves found a door to the side. It was filled with girly outfits, tools for masking a person to look like a pretty blonde girl. What disgusted them the most was the bloody saw in the corner.

"Looks like we found out what he does to dudes." Oracle said darkly.

"I-I think I'm going to be sick." Violet rushed out the room, needing a moment to evacuate her stomach in the dirt. Noir followed her, and patted her back while holding up her hair.

"Moving on, it seems the only way past the door is to dress up one of us as Alice." Crow said disgustedly.

Everyone looked to Skull and Panther, they both sighed.

"This is the worst day of my life." Skull said.

"I can't believe this is happening. Do we really need to do this." Panther pleaded.

"It seems to be the only option. I don't like it either but if we are to stop this creep, we need to get through." Mona said, determined.

"Rock, paper, scissors for who goes first?" Panther said. They did their game Skull losing the battle.

"Kill me now." Skull said as he sadly shuffled on in, the girls moving in to help him.

A long while went by, the girls trying their best to disguise him up. Skull thanked God that cameras didn't work down here. He stepped on the pedestal, decked out in a fancy blue dress. His mask gone in order to disguise himself. His face dolled up, with a wig that cascaded down his back.

"This better work, or there will be hell to pay!" Skull shouted furious.

"Skull act the part! The sooner we get through the sooner you can change." Mona nagged.

"*Groan* Oh heavens! I am parched! I hope to have a nice tea party soon! With the company of a man in a nice hat of course!" He said the rehearsed lines. A large blue light scanned his form up and down, before stopping suddenly turning red.

"Candidate denied. Please give another try!" the voice boomed.

"WHAT I DID ALL THIS SHIT JUST TO BE REJECTED!" Skull yelled enraged.

"I thought you looked very pretty," Fox said, patting him on the back.

"AW SHUDDUP!" Skull yelled, throwing his wig on the ground, the disguise disappearing and changing back to his phantom outfit.

"Guess Panther's up." Oracle said.

The ladies went to work on Panther. It was much easier than with Skull. Ann was dressed the same and didn't really need any makeup for the part. Her hair was changed to match the character The wavy locks reaching her waist. Mona could barely contain his nose bleed.\

"Now Panther, remember your lines." Noir reminded.

"Don't worry guys let a natural actress show you how it's done!" Panther said. The rest of the girls sweated nervously at that. Her acting was known to be that great. Back in Shido's palace, she could barely hold that weird fake accent. Though the man was obviously not paying attention to that part of her. With the way he was eyeing her.

Ann stepped on the pedestal confidant that she'll at least get more points than Skull. She gave a nervous thumbs up before saying her phrase.

"Won't you let me in Hatter? We can have plenty of tea together?" She said as she forgot her lines, she was better at improv anyway. The scanner did its work only to turn red once more.

"NO NO! THIS ONE MUST GO! I WANT ALICE NOT SOME BIMBO!" the voice said harshly.

"EXCUSE ME?!" Ann roared out offended.

"HOW DARE YOU INSULT LADY ANN?!" hissed Mona.

"YOU HAVE ONE MORE SHOT! BRING ME ALICE AT ONCE! ON THE DOT!" the voice screamed back at the thieves. Ann grumbled at the insult, changing back to her phantom uniform. The rest of the thieves are at a loss of what to do next.

"Forget this. Maybe there's another way in we haven't found yet." Mona growled.

"I've searched the perimeter up and down, this is sadly the only way in." Crow said.

"What else can we try? If the two blondes weren't enough for him. None of the rest of us will be accepted either." sighed Queen.

The thieves were discussing possible solutions amongst themselves, none yielding much ground. When all of a sudden…

BZZT~ BZZT~BZZT~

The crew went silent at the sound. Their phones never worked in the metaverse unless it was Lavenza. Joker picked up the phone and held it to his ear.

"Seriously? Do I have to throw you another bone here? Come to the Velvet Room coffee boy or old long nose gets it!" Bat-mite screamed enraged.

The crew rushed to the palace entrance. Knowing how far Bat-mite already went who knows how much further he was willing to go!

Joker came up to the Velvet Room door to be greeted with an awful sight. Lavenza was in heavy chains, the weight seeming to do a number on the girl. Her eyes downcast, filled with defeat, bruises lined her face, blood ruined her dress. She looked up to her Trickster, her eyes puffy from tears.

"Trickster...I'm sorry...I've failed you." Lavenza choked out. Joker crouched down to comfort her. The chains binded her arms tightly. Her hair was an utter mess.

"My master and I tried to fight him once more...It… didn't go well." Lavenza said going into Joker's arms and sobbing.

"Say your lines…" Bat-mite's voice came out of the room.

"You won't get away with this" Lavenza said darkly through the tears.

"SAY IT! OR YOUR MASTER DIES!" Bat-mite screamed.

Lavenza was silent for a long while before taking a deep breath and uttered her lines with complete disgust.

"Our lord Bat-mite wishes to see you." She led Joker through the door, looking at the rest of the thieves with a desperate plea not to interfere. Though reluctant, they complied.

The moment Joker entered the room, his outfit changed into the familiar prisoner's outfit. But like Lavenza he too was held down by a multitude of chains and locks.

"So good of you to join us inmate. Like what I've done with the place?" Bat-mite as laying on the table Igor was usually at. Igor was bound in the corner. The alarms blared bright red and the sound filled the space with deafening noise.

"What do you want, Bat-mite?" Joker demanded.

"You already know what I want Inmate. Last night was a joyous preview of what's to come and for that I thank you. Though getting stuck on your first palace... tsk,tsk,tsk. That deserves a punishment."

Bat-mite snapped his fingers and hundreds upon hundreds of personas relieved themselves in their cages. Their screams of fury drowned out the alarm going off in the room, they pounded their fists on the bars desperately trying to free themselves and destroy the intruder before them.

"Last night was fun was it not? I took a little look at your progress, looks like I'm the mirror of your little Phanboy eh?" Bat-mite goaded.

"What about him?" Joker pressed not liking where this was going.

"Poor Mishima. You know he considered you his best friend. How pathetic right? Such a desperation to be useful when it was clear he was such a waste of space." Bat-mite continued.

"Don't talk about him like that." Joker pressed. He noticed all of the moon arcana shadows were banging harder and harder on the cells. Angered by the god's teasing of the boy.

"Oh? I'm not even beginning." He said holding a bat and running it on the bars of the shadows, angering them even more. The sounds of the clanking were echoing throughout the room. Some of the personas snapping their mighty jaws at Bat-mite trying in vain to reach him and put an end to this game.

"You're provoking them! Stop it!" Lavenza begged.

"Shut up. Before you get split in two again." Bat-mite threatened.

The room filled with silence, Joker and Igor bidded their time letting the god speak.

"Your punishment Trickster. Is to watch your friend die. Knowing it's your fault, and that there is nothing you can do to stop it." Bat-mite continued calmly.

"WHAT?! NO?! NO MORE KILLING! I SWEAR TO YOU I'LL-!" Akira screamed, struggling against his chains only to be interrupted.

"KNOW YOUR PLACE INMATE!" Bat-mite screamed with a wide grin, lightning shot through Akira. The pain was immense, Akira screamed at the assault

"AAGGGH!" Akira screamed, falling to the ground in pain.

"Be grateful, I'm only ridding you of the annoyances first next death is going to hurt. Maybe Sojiro, or maybe long nose here." Bat-mite pointed at the tall man.

"My master will never let you get away with this, once I regain contact he'll lay waste to your pitiful form!" Igor said calmly.

"You mean Philemon? We have actually entered an agreement. He was very interested in what I have in store for all of you. He has proposed a wager. Fight these mirrors for your freedom, your strength of heart will surely guide you. You know crap like that." Bat-mite snarked.

Igor was silent at that, he has known his master for a long time. It sounded like something his master would do. The way his master thought was beyond even his being, but to this degree?

"Doesn't matter to me though. If he crosses me I'll kill him too!" Bat-mite declared.

"FOOL! You can not just kill a god of the collective unconscious! Who knows what effect it will have on the multitude of universes!" shouted Igor.

"A new job might do me good. It'll be tough but I'm sure of my resolve. Though that is a last resort, he was more than willing to do his usual gamble for the fate of humanity. So be grateful we have reached an agreement." Bat-mite finished.

Igor growled, he would follow his master to the ends of the earth. But that would mean letting this monster have his fun. The rebel in him stirred but he pushed it down. Philemon clearly had a plan for all of this, he would just need help seeing it through.

"Very well… Trickster it seems we have been entered into another contract without our knowledge. May my weakened state be enough to guide you to victory." Igor said, eyes closed.

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FOOL ABILITY ACQUIRED:

20 persona slots available

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"IGOR DON'T YOU DARE SAY THAT TO ME! HE'S KILLED SO MANY CLOSE TO US DON'T LET HIM- AAAAAAAGGGG! The shook went through Akira once more silencing the wild card user.

"Silence Inmate the adults are talking. As for your punishment, look and see your friend's life be taken due to your failure." Bat-mite grinned, showing Akira the vision of the loss of a friend.

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Mishima rushed to his house in fear, he didn't know where else to go. He heard of Ryuji and Ann's death earlier this week and was walking the school yard in utter terror for the following week. The news of the tragic fall of Okumura foods was all over the news. The amount of people dead was staggering. Ms. Kawakami tried to comfort him, but it didn't work. He could see the fear in her eyes too. He tried to get into contact with Akira hoping against hope he was still alive and could help them somehow. That was when he got a text.

"The Phantom Thieves are dead. You are next." Mishima screamed, shouting to his teacher that they were coming before running to his house. He locked the door, his parents were out for the night and he knew he couldn't tell them a thing. They were of no help with Kamoshida, they would be no help here.

He grabbed a knife and hid in his closet. He clutched the thing with all his might, pants soiled as his knuckles turned white. He...he wouldn't let them get him. He wouldn't let them get any information out of him!

Mishima rushed out of the closet and grabbed all the drafts he had of the documentary for the thieves. He put them into an empty trash can and lit a match, dropping it into it.

He watched his dreams burn to ash rubbing his nose as it was suddenly bleeding. He looked at the blood and noticed it was taking a more blackish tone.

They won't get me, they'll never get me!

He held his knife to his neck and slashed it violently. The black blood spraying all over the kitchen. As Mishima dropped on his knees, the blood soiling his uniform, he smiled. He had finally done something right. He had helped his friends, he had completed his goal. He was complete. Mishima's parents would come home from their date that night to quite a scene, Their only child splayed on the ground with a wicked smile on his face. He was on edge the last few weeks, but they thought it was a phase, like with Kamoshida.

They sobbed at the similarities. They're neglect has ended their only son's life. They collapsed together at the scene weeping for their lost child.

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"NOOOOO!" Akira screamed. The chains binding him were snapping in the strain. They broke and with all his power he gripped the iron bars of his prison cell. He shook them, the bars breaking as well his phantom thief outfit replacing his prisoners outfit. He broke free and held Bat-mite down with one hand.

"I WILL END YOU! YOU WILL LIVE IN TERROR UNTIL THE DAY YOU DIE! YOU HEAR ME!" Joker shouted.

"*Chokes* Such power! Such rage! Is this what Yaldabaoth experienced? Heh… WHAT A WEAKLING!" Bat-mite surged Joker back against his cell.

"AGGH!" Joker yelled in pain as his back slammed against his cell door. He slid down the door in pain and coughed up blood.

"LISTEN UP! Rebellion is fueled by the rage those have for those up top! So hate me! FEAR ME! And know if you fail to do my bidding more people will die. And when I run out of people to kill. When you're broken and begging for your death...I'll give it to you." Bat-mite said darkly.

"You all are expendable to me. In the infinitely expansive multiverse, there are an infinite amount of people who uphold the same justice as you. I don't even hold my champion in that high of a regard. There are infinitely more opportunities awaiting me should both sides die! So… smile and accept your gift Inmate." Bat-mite threw a key at Joker.

"That's the last bone I'm throwing YOU HEAR ME?!" shouted Bat-mite. Joker took the key and looked at it, unsure what it was for.

"These personas, as you call them, such a novel power. They seem to hate me so much that they wish to break from the unconscious and help you in ways beyond. That key will grant that wish. I'll be back for the Hatter's hat soon. Don't disappoint me Joker, or I'll show you just how psychotic your counterpart is." Bat-mite threatened before disappearing in a puff of smoke.

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MIRROR MOON SKILL ACQUIRED:

Broken Chains:

You can now release a persona into the conscious world.

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The chains on Igor and Lavenza disappeared as well, letting them free themselves.

"Trickster, it would be best to steal this Hatter's heart as soon as possible. Come let us decide which of these personas should be freed." Lavenza said, dusting herself off.

"Whoever your master is Igor, I hate him for doing this to us." Joker said darkly.

"He works in mysterious ways Trickster, though he has a deep love for the human race. He wouldn't get us into something we can't handle." Igor replied.

"He lets hundreds of people die for some wager. That's not love." Joker said.

Igor stayed silent at that as his Trickster walked off with his attendant. Leaving him to his thoughts.

Joker and Lavenza walked down a long hall. It reminded him of when he had to free his friends from their prison cells. Only within those cells were a multitude of the personas that he has captured or fused during his tenure as a thief. The lot of them screaming, reaching for their master, begging to be released.

"Have you decided which one to free Trickster? I would recommend a more powerful one in order to help in your endeavor." Lavenza advised.

"I have an idea. It's crazy but it just might work." Joker said as he went to a cell with a lone figure standing in the shadows. She walked out and grabbed the bars and looked up to her Senpai.

"Alice, how's your acting?" Joker asked the tiny girl in the blue dress. If she didn't pass the Hatter's test nothing will.

"As much as I want to see this god bleed, I will do what I must for you Senpai." The girl smiled wickedly at the Trickster. The girl had a sadistic streak that rivaled Haru's. With her entrance into the real world who knows what could happen.

"I need you to promise me, not to kill anyone on the outside world. Can you do that Alice?" Joker asked.

"Aw~ You're no fun Senpai. But we have already made our pact. I am Thou, Thou art I. I won't do anything to ruin your mission. I couldn't live with myself otherwise." she vowed.

"Good, I have a feeling this will get ugly. I'll let you know when to go all out." Joker promised.

"As you wish, Senpai." she bowed politely.

Joker opened the cell door with his key. Alice had multiple chains on her appear suddenly, needing the key also. The Trickster and the fictional girl left together and a new member of the party was unlocked that day.

"May this persona guide you to victory Trickster. The key seems to have lost its power, it seems to need a recharge of sorts. I'll let you know when you are able to use it once more." Lavenza said as they left. Joker nodded as the two left.

"He's been in there a while, I hope he's ok." Violet said, concerned.

"I'm sure he can handle it. Joker's the strongest guy I know" Mona said with conviction.

Joker came out with an unknown female, she looked a lot like Lavenza but with more of a creepy aura.

"Joker!" the crew ran up to him in worry.

"Uh, who is that?" Skull asked

"Gang, say hello to Alice. She'll be a part of this from now on." Joker said.

"It's a pleasure to finally talk to you, our battles together will be even more fun!" Alice clapped her hands together with a terrifying grin.

"Alice? You mean?" Fox asked.

"Who better to pass Hatter's test than the actual girl from the book." Joker grinned.

"I don't understand. I remember you wielding her in battle before but I can touch her. How is this possible?" Crow asked, gripping her shoulder.

"DON'T TOUCH ME TRAITOR! OR I WILL MAKE YOU FEEL DEATH A FOURTH TIME!" Alice screamed, making Crow back up in haste.

"It wasn't cheap. Bat-mite said it was the last chance he would give us. To prove his point… Mishima's dead. I watched him slit his throat because of a mental shutdown." Joker said darkly.

The crew gasped.

"That bastard is going to pay!" Skull yelled.

"We aren't going to make him pay by standing here let's go." Crow said, walking back into the dense Wonderland forest.

"How dare a man try to pretend to be my dear Hatter. He will pay with his life!" Alice said.

"What was our promise?" Joker chided.

"*giggle* I mean let's not tear him limb from limb" Alice tried.

"You'll get there." Joker sweated as the rest of the team gave her a lot more space.

"Finally, someone who gets me" Noir whispered under her breath.

The Phantom Thieves made their way back to the pedestal. They were all nervous about the possibility that this won't work, and the effect it will have on the palace. They all had their weapons ready as Alice stepped on the pedestal.

"Hello? What's a poor girl like me supposed to do without her tea?" Alice said. The scanner went across her body. Up and down as if in disbelief.

"I-Is it truly you Alice? No fakes? No malice?" The voice asked hesitantly.

"Yes, these kind souls have returned me to you . I feel a reward is in order." Alice played along giving the thieves a thumbs up.

"Yes, yes it is true. They deserve the reward for finding you." The voice boomed before the Hatter appeared. He was much shorter than anticipated, the grimy man looked like he hadn't showered in weeks. His yellow teeth in a joyful grin as he saw his perfection.

"Here… Take this my goons and leave me be. Alice and I have much to see!" Hatter handed them a book and grabbed Alice tightly; she struggled at the notion.

"Wait… Mr. Hatter just what do you think you're doing?" Alice tried politely, the mask slipping as her rage fueled her.

"We must consummate our reunion. One soul, one mind, a perfect union!" The Hatter tightened his grip on the girl.

"That's not happening! Alice… you know what to do." Joker said.

Alice grinned evilly the dark red energy coursing through her. She slammed the Hatter on the floor, the pain running through the Hatter causing him to cry out in pain.

"What is this? Alice why do you throw your fists?" The Hatter asked in pain

"Mona, find the treasure, report back as soon as you can." Joker commanded.

"Roger" Mona turned into a van and blasted through the unguarded doors.

"NO NO! FAKES MUST GO! GUARDS!" Hatter yelled and was surrounded by shadows the team surrounded.

"I'm not a fake, you are dear Hatter. Now DIE FOR ME!" Alice shouted red veins showed all over her pale skin, the shadows falling instantly to the exploding teddy bears. The battle was over as soon as it started the corpses of shadows disappearing around the Hatter making him panic.

"You...YOU! YOU WILL MEET YOUR DOOM!!" Shouted the Hatter, as more and more shadows surrounded the thieves. They fought them all off, trying to stall for Mona. It was a losing battle until…

"I've found the treasure! It's just past those doors!" Mona shouted running back to the group.

"Come on then! Let's take a look at this book. And see what possible means we can get from it!" Joker shouted as he led the team into a running escape.

"No NO! You do not deserve the book! Give, give it back before I have your body on a hook!" Hatter shouted.

"Let's bounce! Before more shadows appear!" Skull shouted as the team ran away to the entrance. The group ran for their lives as more and more shadows appeared around them.

"THIEVES RUN! COME BACK AND I'LL HAVE SOME FUN!" The Hatter shouted furiously going back into his lair. The book was important to him, not as much as the treasure, mind you, but he needed it back. The guards would be on high alert until they found it. With the thieves dead on the ground, and Alice brought to him. Fake or not, she was the closest he'll get to perfection. Their matrimony will last for eternity, he just needed to make some changes to that monster of a mind.

The crew made it into a safe room nearest to the exit. They were all panting from exertion, trying to catch their breath.

"That could have gone better." Mona admitted.

"Yes, though at least we have an infiltration route secured. This palace is an odd one to say the least." Queen sighed.

"Though I wonder, if not the treasure then what is this book?" Fox asked.

"I suppose there is only one way of finding out." Crow said, flipping open the book. A holographic video shot out from it revealing a much younger Jervis Tetch.

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*STATIC*

"Hello, I'm Dr. Tetch. This is my journal on the progress of the advanced hypnotherapy I've been working on as of late. I would like to thank Arkham Asylum for granting me the means in order to continue my work." Jervis said.

"Daddy~ can you read me the story again?" A little blonde girl pulled on his shirt, holding a familiar book in her arms.

"Hang on sugar plum, daddy's working. Go to your room and I'll be there shortly." Tetch patted the girl on the head, she smiled sweetly in response.

*STATIC*

"Progress has been slow, the Asylum is getting impatient. Times have been tough, I can barely afford food for my daughter. My medicine is so expensive...I… might have to make some sacrifices." Jervis said, putting his hand to his head.

"Dad? Are you alright?" The same girl walked in. Slightly older and even more kind.

"Y-yes Alice... Just grown up stuff. Never you mind." Jervis said.

"Are you sure? You don't look well. And you forgot to visit mom with me." Alice said concernedly.

"I'll go soon. She was so beautiful, and looked just like you." Jerivs said.

"Okay…" Alice said closing the door.

The recording seems to go even harsher into the static, seemingly skipping months of time.

*STATIC*

"The voices, they are everywhere. I try to ignore them, though. I must protect my Alice. I must keep her. Child Protection has been hounding me. I just need more time...more time." Jervis said almost pleadingly.

"Dad please! This isn't like you! You need help. We need help!" Alice begged.

"SILENCE!" Jervis smacked the girl enraged. The girl looked at her father in betrayal, before running away crying.

"ALICE! I DIDN'T MEAN IT! ALICE!"

*STATIC*

"Hickory, Dickory, Dock. The clock strikes ever closer to the clock." Jervis said, he was a mess, his proper attire gone. Replaced by torn clothes and gritty hair.

"I'm home…" Alice said depressed.

"Alice...h-how was your day?" Jervis tried.

The girl just looked away. Gone was her innocence, replaced by a cynicism much more fitting for Gotham. The girl was barely twelve and lost all hope she had.

"Alice please! Just look at these!" Jervis showed his daughter his new trinkets. He's gotten more and more desperate, the nice tool set taken away. Replaced by scraps from the trash. Alice covered her nose at the smell.

"Dad...I've been thinking...t-that I should live at a friends place." Alice said hesitantly.

"WHAT?!" Jervis yelled.

"You refuse help. You need to get the voices out! I don't understand what that means but the neighbors all call you crazy. Please… remember...remember the kind man you were" Alice begged.

*STATIC*

"NO ONE TAKES MY ALICE FROM ME!" Jervis was suddenly beating his daughter to a pulp. She was scrambling for help, begging for him to stop.

"DAD PLEASE! NOO!" Alice screamed blood coating her face. Defenseless against the assault.

"THEY WON'T TAKE YOU AWAY! THAT WILL NEVER BE OK!" Jervis yelled back.

The punches did their final blow and Alice stopped moving, the young girl dead at the hands of her own father.

Jervis looked at his hands, blood stained from his own daughter. The sanity left with the broken man knew he couldn't live with what he had done. He rushed to his hypnotism device and had to forget.

*STATIC*

The Hatter has managed to knock out a random goon. He would try to control him for his bidding. The test was not successful, the thug layed face first on the ground drooling, braindead. If only he hadn't lost his original design to the police…

No matter...he would find his Alice again. He must have his beautiful Alice again.

*STATIC*

Alice where are you? I don't remember where you went. The voices cry out, "BRING HER ABOUT". But I am already spent.

I recall the stories told. So young you were, makes me feel old.

I only remember that you were only ten. Our love was endless Alice…

Why can't we be together again?

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The book ended its message and Crow closed the book.

"Holy shit…" Skull said, shocked.

"To see a man fall that far down into madness…" Violet said.

"HIM?! WHAT ABOUT HIS DAUGHTER?! Beaten to death by her own father?!" Skull shouted.

"Skull control yourself. It's messed up. No denying it. But we have a job to do." Mona chided.

"There seems to be something left out of the story. Pages torn out of the book, lost deep into his psyche. It doesn't cover his more recent endeavors of kidnapping anyone who happens to have either blonde hair or blue eyes. Not to mention how he castrates men in order to fit his vision. This must be recent. He's slipping further…" Crow deduced.

"Well we have an understanding of him at least. It gives me a nauseous feeling however." Fox said, staring at the closed book.

"I don't understand how this isn't the treasure. It relays all of his desires." Violet said.

"Just because it does that, doesn't mean it's his treasure. Like with Futaba and Maruki, they had things like this in their palace that wasn't their treasure." Mona explained.

"In any case. Our infiltration is secure. Let's go home, rest up, and prepare his calling card." Queen said.

"He's going to pay for killing my counterpart. He'll lay awake at night, knowing my spirit haunts him." Alice said darkly.

The team made their way out of the palace. Ready for the long fight that will come tomorrow, they just had to plan how to give out the card.

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April 10th, Night

Chinatown, Cafe Leblanc

Rain

The thieves were exhausted. They were all shoveling curry down their throats from their hunger. Alice had decided to head back to her cell, saying that while free, she preferred to sleep alone. The thieves didn't stop her as she vanished in a pure blue light, much to the surprise of Sojiro.

Alice will be the most important party member in this palace. Akira grinned at the thought of Hatter losing to the fictional character he adored so much. The irony was delicious.

The thieves were talking among themselves, discussing random topics while eating their dinner. Ryuji face down on the table as sleep won out over dinner for once.

"Oh yeah I heard the craziest story today. You'll never believe it-" Sojiro started as he was interrupted by the door slamming open.

"What the-?" Sojiro asked as the Dark Knight busted in. The room was silent in terror. Did he find out about Makoto? Did he find out about the Phantom Thieves before they even finished their first heist?

Batman walked up to the counter and glared at Sojiro. The gaze intense as the silence held.

Morgana yowled in fear, making his escape through the still open door.

Makoto couldn't take the pressure of the terror she felt and fainted. Her head resting on the wall of the cafe.

"Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh," repeated Ann, her brain not processing what was happening before her.

Sumire was frozen in shock as he stood there looking like a monster ready to strike.

Haru, experienced in high pressure situations, was readying herself for a fierce fight. She would enjoy the violence that would ensue.

Yusuke kept drinking his tea, deciding to stay calm in the face of adversity. He Watched the staredown unfold with intense interest.

Akechi held his calm mask towards the night, deciding that he'd play dumb and betray these idiots once more if they managed to become this compromised.

"Give me a triple." Batman demanded. Sojiro froze up at the weirdness of the situation. Akira was beside him holding his freshly made coffee he had prepared for the coming day.

"NOW!" Batman yelled slamming down the correct amount of cash.

"Uh, ok." Akira handed him his coffee. Lucky him it was correct to the knights orders.

"Thank you." Batman said, taking a long sip, seeming to enjoy his hot beverage.

Futaba took out her phone and took a picture for research purposes. This was the closest she'll get to Batman for who knows how long. She needed the evidence.

"No pictures" Batman demanded. Futaba pouted at him. Her resolve was much weaker than Akira's and the fear she felt pushed her to delete the picture.

Dammit, when did I become such a scrub? Futaba thought.

The knight busted out of the cafe and his car drove out of nowhere as he hoped in and drove off into the night.

Ryuji was woken up by the loud revving of engines and straitened back up.

"HUHH?! What happened?" He snorted awake.

"You idiot! How'd you manage to sleep through all that?!" Ann shouted, punching him in the chest.

"Is he gone?" Morgana crawled down the stairs hesitantly. He fled but decided to head back in order to fight with his friends. He was resolute in his determination, but quivering in fear.

"Yes Mona-senpai. He is gone." Sumire took a long breath relaxing herself.

"Uh, did I miss something?" Ryuji asked, confused.

"*Sign* How did you, of all people, manage to defeat me?" Akechi groaned to the rest of the room.

"Sheesh, What an ass. I got a bad heart dammit." Sojiro scowled.

"I don't think he knows about us. I think he just...wanted coffee?" Akira said, unsure.

"Yeah, that was the crazy story I heard of another cafe. Can't believe it just happened to me though." Sojiro said, rubbing his neck.

"Be glad it was just that. Though I can't recount anywhere we have been sloppy. At least not yet of course." Akechi said condescendingly.

"Is Makoto alright?" Yusuke asked.

"She's out cold. Man she really can't handle scares well huh?" Futaba said, slapping Makoto's cheek.

Akira sighed as he looked out the window. He hasn't felt that kind of terror in… Well seeing his friend slit his throat was pretty terrifying.

The full moon shone on the cafe. Akira wondered just how far this game would go. Before Bat-mite gets bored and kills them all...Or Batman would come busting in for more than just coffee.

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AN:

*Victory Dance*

It's done! Oh lord~!

This went way longer than expected.

Next chapter coming up soon.

Stay tuned! :3