Legend Saint-14: No Spoilers, please. I am saving up to get Royal in two months, so expect me to finish it by... October-ish?

Slobodan1990: points to this review This is another reason why I am not using P5R or P5S stuff in this story! Not everyone has played those and it would be unfair on them/paint a bad picture of those things if we portray them badly!

Swagwell: Yes, we will see more.

Darklink1011:... GOD DAMN IT, WHY DID WE NOT THINK OF THAT JOKE?!

Rin Morningstar: Because Ghost is good at saving. Meanwhile I also have a lot of things that are more important than a game... especially since I already have dozens of other games to finish

The Wolf Paladin: points at your name That is why Shiho uses a broadsword. Part of her Phantom Thief insperation is of a female paladin

Timothy45: points at the twenty times I said I am not doing P5R stuff Also... Her Persona are Cendrillon, Vanadis and Ella.

Lightsbane1905: Our own creation, as far as I know. Ghost did the design

DragonNightmare90: Well not a friend. More that, as we will reveal later, Futaba accidentally walked out of her room to go to the bathroom, saw Shiho, pulled a Futaba and Shiho basically chatted at her through the door, trying to be nice

Shooting Star Dragon 3000: throws a card at you Here's your war-Oooooh! Right in the eye! Sorry buddy.

NumberOnePhan: All I knew about Scramble was that it was a Dynasty Warrior style game. That is all. I did not look into more because I did not want to learn more until I, myself, got to play the game. I do not like spoilers. Especially for RPG related games

You also, seriously, did not understand what we where going for with the opening honestly. In that, realistically, with how Japan works... Ren went to hell when he returned home. He did not kill himself because he gave up in life, but he knew even with the tools at his disposal he had no chance of getting home. Killing himself was an ace of final rebellion, showing how he refused to give them the satisfaction of him suffering.

Also the fact Scramble is a sequel shows that the world was not magically fixed when the stupid golden cup was broken. But since I am on the subject of Scramble... as mentioned in Chapter 1, in real world Japan, Scramble would not be happening. Ren is not a legal adult, his parents would take everything and the biased community/police force would make sure he ends up on the street or in prison.

Ren's last memories of Sojiro was of the 'coffee Dad' Sojiro, so going from him to the aggressive one would throw him

Mona only has memories of Ren, no one else. He has a different character arc this time than what he had in the original game, which is the point of a story like this

And yes that was true in the first timeline... now things are different. She is going to grow slightly differently now with traces of the original growth there. Because this time she isn't supporting Shiho recovering physically from a suicide attempt... but to help her recover mentally and emotionally from an attempted rape attempt
Shades of the original but with a different brush stroke allowing for a different effect, as my artist sister would say (and yes, she really likes Yusuke)

Also it is not that Shiho is outright popular it is that people felt sorry for her, she went through some of the worst shit, and then as soon as she is taken away in that ambulance she is never really seen again. She was used as a plot device when people wanted to see her as a character and to help her recover

You are not the first one to say this but... I don't see it. Violet is designed like a mix between a fencer and a ballet dancer. Meanwhile our design for Shiho's Phantom Thief look is based off Black Canary to go with the Catwoman theme that Ann gives off

We know they are cannon but guess what? This story isn't. We are deeply sorry you did not enjoy it but that is just my response to your criticism. We could have spaced things out a bit more, went into Ren's feelings about some of the earlier stuff as well as Ann and Shiho's feelings more. We will keep that in mind as we keep writing and try not to make the same mistakes again, thank you.

Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:

Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Heck yeah. We did our best here.

Lightsbane1905: It's our own interpretation of her. We were sending ideas back and forth.

IAmOutOfIdeas: At least you admit your mistakes and your apology is accepted.

Vein Bloodborne: Heck yeah. Shiho was used as a plot point rather than a character, we wanted to give her credit.

DarkxKitsune15: Absolutely, she deserved better.

Timothy45: What? No, we didn't give Shiho 'Kasumi's Persona'; she has her own Persona. This story is based on the base Persona 5 game before Scramble and Royal came out.

warrior of six blades: Yeah, we gave Shiho some good things in this story. Plus, it plays into the 'Hecate Persona' Ann has later.

Cooperjordan: Okay, in all seriousness; we didn't know that Kasumi *had* Holy based attacks in P5 Royal.

Darklink1011: Yeah, she *and* the other girls.

Chaos-Guard: Thank you very much, and yes, as time will go on, Ren's knowledge on the palaces will be harder to keep down.

Redrangerlegacy: *chuckle* Someone got it!

To everyone: This story is based solely on Persona 5. Grey and I started this story with only the base game in mind. Therefore: Wolf and Violet will *NOT* be appearing in this story. Shiho's codename and Arcana name will be revealed in this chapter and was not intentionally made as a reskin of Kasumi; her Phantom Thief design and choice of Persona were brian-stormed before Royal came out. In addition, we are only using the Base Game's base and Final Personas, that means no 'Diego', 'Raoul' or any third-tier fusion Persona will appear in this story!

Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.

Co-written by GhostKaiser23


AUTHOR'S NOTE

I have to admit guy's, I am a bit depressed guys. Over the past few weeks I have gotten a few PM's from assholes over this story.

Just... some rather disheartening things that make me want to just stop writing this story altogether.

Now I won't outright abandon it. I'd finish writing the current chapter Ghost and I where working on, edit everything we had done into a single large 45K chapter and publish that as a final chapter. With that chapter covering up to where we are currently writing, which is shortly before Yusuke's awakening.

I am this close to doing that honestly, considering some of the shit I have been sent. As well as the attacks others have been directing at me through a few stories that Ghost is writing

I love writing, it got me through a time where I was legit close to killing myself. And posting stories online made me feel... happy.

But at the same time I see the popularity I once had when writing Ben's Harem has basically completely faded away. Meanwhile chapters I am publishing now which I pour my heart into and have fun writing, I do not get as many views or reviews now while the responses I do get come alongside people wanting to kill me for my portrayal of BeastBoy since he isn't getting all the girls, people insulting me because I do not want to use Persona 5 Scramble content in my retelling of Persona 5, calling me retarded because I disagree with them about the Rider timelines being merged into one world after the events of Decade or people wishing I would die because I wrote a character as a lesbian

As I said, I love writing and it got me through terrible times. But now... writing feels like it is bringing back those terrible times.

So, I am being serious, do you guys want me to continue this story or should I just post what Ghost and I have done as a single final chapter? Please let me know in your reviews.

I hope some of you enjoy this one.


Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 5: Old and New Bonds


It was the following day, Ren was about to leave LeBlanc, with Sojiro wondering what he was doing.

"I'm off." Ren nodded

"Try not to get into trouble, kid." Sojiro spoke as Ren left.

"I won't." Ren 'lied', since he knew that he would have to get his hands dirty. Luckily, today wasn't a trouble day. All he had to do, was to go to school and do some much-needed reading and supply gathering. Luckily he knew a few places to stock up. The perfect spots, speaking of... Today would be a day to see his special doctor

The day seemed to pass quite quickly, Morgana taking a nap in Ren's desk, the group learning in their respective classes... It just seemed to be a blur.

Ren was sitting in his chair, when his phone began to buzz lightly 'Hmm?' He thought as he flipped his phone on and looked at the messages. He saw it was the group chat, Ryuji being the one to start the conversation

'Dude, we need to find some new weapons.'

'Aren't you supposed to be in class?' Ann responded

'Yeah, but this is important.' Ryuji answered immediately.

'Why? The one I have now is good.' Shiho rebutted

'Yeah, but we can get better stuff.' Ryuji wrote back

'Guys, don't worry. Let me handle the items.' Ren responded.

'Don't take too much on, Ren. We're together in this.' Ann answered

'Should we meet up on the roof or...' Ryuji questioned

"Mr Amamiya!" The teacher spoke up, catching him off guard and gave off a killing intent. "Pay attention!" And threw his chalk at him, aiming for his head.

Ren saw the incoming chalk, dodging it to the side, hearing it smash in the back of the room. The class gasped as they saw this, shocked to see Ren dodge the infamous 'Teacher Chalk Throw'. 'That was close!' He thought in shock.

"Pay attention." The teacher grumbled and went back to the board, sans chalk.

Ren nodded, adjusting his glasses 'That was close.' Ren thought as he saw the message thread.

'No more typing in class, Ryuji!' Ann scowled at him.

'Why? What happened?' He responded

'We'll meet on the roof later. Get back to class!' Ann ordered before she put her phone away

"Lady Ann's miffed, isn't she?" Morgana whispered, trying not to grab her or the teacher's attention.

It was now after school up on the rooftop, Ann and Ren were walking out through the doors and saw Shiho and Ryuji waiting there. "Hey guys; what-?"

SLAP!

"You idiot, Ryuji!" Ann smacked him around the back of the head.

"OW! The hell's that for?"

"Ann, what happened?" Shiho asked

"Ren almost got his daily dose of 'Vitamin Chalk' because this asshole couldn't stop texting!" Ann explained.

"I know this situation is serious, but COME ON dude!" Ryuji rubbed the back of his head and grumbled. "Wasn't just me you know."

"I know. But we're here now and we can talk properly." Ann responded as she huffed, sitting next to Shiho

"Are you okay?" Ren asked Shiho, talking about her injuries

"I'm fine... mostly. But, when I transformed, they didn't hurt as much." Shiho explained. "After... It was like they all happened fresh."

"That's worrying." Ryuji pointed out

"Maybe it only lasts until you fully heal?" Ann asked

"Hopefully." Shiho nodded as she rubbed a healing bruise "So. What's this about 'new weapons'?"

"We know this place that sells model weapons." Ryuji answered.

Ren let them talk, laying out a handmade map he had crafted based on Kamoshida's Palace, at least what the group had seen so far

"You're quite good at this, Ren." Ann commented

"I learned a lot from Morgana." Ren answered as he frowned, annoyed he couldn't remember the castles lay out. If only they had Futaba, this would be a LOT easier

"Thanks, Ren. But we've still got to get the Treasure. But now, with Lady Shiho and Lady Ann we can make it further than before." Morgana answered

"Next time we go in, we are heading to the treasure." Ren nodded confidently

"And where is that?" Ann asked

"Somewhere deep in the castle, somewhere Kamoshida feels untouchable." Ren answered.

"We'll have to find a map inside his Palace in order to navigate around, otherwise we'll be doubling back on ourselves." Morgana added

"Wouldn't he keep the treasure in the place he feels strongest? So the gym?" Shiho pointed out

"No." Ren shook his head "While he is the gym coach, he feels like the entire SCHOOL belongs to him. The gym would be his trophy room or something... He'd keep it in his throne room, in the highest tower. High above everyone else."

"How'd you know this Palace has a high tower?" Ryuji asked with a concerned tone

"It's kind of hard to miss." Ren pointed to the makeshift map and showed a tower at the side with Ryuji laughing nervously

"Oh, that reminds me. Will these help? I got them from the vending machines." Shiho asked, putting some cans of drink before them. And Ren knew that these were SP regaining drinks while in the Metaverse.

"Perfectly." He nodded

"Not the best, but I think they'll do." Shiho sighed in relief and smiled gently.

"So; when do we go?" Ann asked

"... Two days from now." Ren said, his kind plotting "We need to make sure we have everything we need before then."

"Two days." The three mumbled.

"Well. Okay then. I'm gonna try prepped." Ryuji answered

Ryuji and Ann left, leaving Ren with Shiho who looked like he wanted to say something

"What is it?" Shiho asked nervously.

"Shiho." Ren spoke gently as he looked at her.

"Ren... Thank you." she said, bowing deeply "If it wasn't for you...I-I don't know what I would've done."

Ren knew what would've happened. Shiho attempting suicide. But considering the alternative, this was a better path for her "No need to thank me." he said humbly

"But I want to. Thanks to you, I can finally feel a little better." Shiho answered.

Ren nodded in understanding, knowing that Shiho can do much more than holding back. She was going to do good in The Phantom Thieves.

I am Thou. Thou art I.
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Lust Persona, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power...

'Wait... What?' Ren thought in shock

"I should get going. I'll. I'll see you later." She smiled gently before she left.

"... Okay." Ren replied back, smiling to try and make her feel better

As Shiho left, Morgana looked at Ren. "Looks like we've got to put things into action. Where to next?"

"The clinic in Yogen-Jaya." Ren answered confidently while being a bit conflicted

"What's wrong?" Morgana asked as he leapt into the bag.

"Just... Last time." Ren muttered

"Sorry? I didn't quite catch that." Morgana asked

"I'll tell you later." he sighed. Ren stood up and began to walk back home, back to LeBlanc... though he was going to make a detour.


*time skip*

Ren was quiet all the way back home, he was almost at LeBlanc, but he had to get to the clinic. He had to meet her.

His special doctor

Taking a deep breath he made a turn and left for her clinic

It was secluded behind the local second-hand shop, Ren would have to go there at some point to pick up essential supplies. But for now, medicine awaits.

As he entered, he caught the smell of a clean, disinfected waiting room, a row of cushioned seats, a table and a receptionist area, on the other side of the window was a woman with dark blue bob-cut hair, wearing a studded necklace choker and a black dress under a white lab coat. That was all Ren could see at the moment, but he knew, this was the person he needed to see.

This wouldn't be the first time he'd seen her again though, she was at the cafe the other night as he left. But this... He'd be able to see her again. Tae Takemi

She was sitting behind the window looking either bored or just waiting for her next patient to come in. "Urgh, I need some coffee." She groaned gently.

"Well Le Blanc is always available." Ren commented, looking at her and smiling

"Huh? Oh, you're that kid who lives there; right?" Tae asked as she looked at him. "What's wrong?"

"I was hoping to get a check up." he asked simply

"Alright." She answered as she looked at the list. "Go into the exam room."

Ren nodded and did as he was told, doing his best to keep calm. As he walked in, he sat down at the chair and waited for Dr Takemi to come in.

Soon the doctor entered and she was as breath taking as ever. She looked rough, but that was part of her charm; holding an inspection sheet of Ren to fill out. She sat down and crossed those long, elegant and sexy legs in a clear and simple movement "Now, what brings you to the clinic?" She asked passively.

"I need something to help with my exams." Ren lied

The doctor sighed as she looked at the list and then typed on the computer. "I can prescribe this." She pointed to some medicine on the screen with a dismissive comment.

"I actually need something more." Ren answered "I heard you sell some special medicine?"

"... Who told you that?" Tae asked as she flinched. Tae didn't let him answer, however. Standing up and walking towards the door she locked it with a flick of her wrist, leaning against as she looked at the teen sat before her "Are you certain about this?" She asked with a concerned look in her eyes "This is dangerous stuff. What does a high-schooler like you need with this stuff anyway?"

"It's for my exams." Ren answered, lying technically... but he needed all the help with not only the Metaverse but also with his exams making her narrow her eyes at him

"Well, I do have something I need to test with." She answered as she unlocked the door.

Ren's throat was dry as she walked towards him

"A new concoction I'm making." Tae answered. "And I need a guinea pig." She sat down, her long legs crossing once more "Are you in?" she smirked

"Yeah. I'm in." He nodded, determined to get the medicine and help her out. He looked at her, smiling proudly

"Alright then, I'll get my first formula." She answered as she bent down, grabbing something from a draw

"Huh?" He asked, before he saw the flask containing a red liquid. He instantly froze, vaguely recalling the taste of the 'medicine'... and feared what was coming next.

"Here." she grinned

"Right. Thanks. Bottoms up." He raised the flask nervously as the smell hit his nose and downed it, making him cringe from the bitter taste.

Tae gasped as she saw Ren down the drink in one go.

"Done." he nodded proudly

"I'm... speechless. I didn't think you'd drink it all in one." Tae admitted as she made notes.

"What do you mean?" he asked

"Well, that's an experimental-" Tae began to explain before Ren got woozy, feeling the effects of the medicine take effect.

Crash!

"Yeah." Tae sighed before she picked up her clipboard and made notes


*time skip*

Ren was lying on the patient's bed, slowly getting rid of the side effects of the experimental drug "Ugh..." he groaned softly

"Good, you're awake." Tae stated as she saw him rise. "Do you feel any adverse effects?" She asked as she inspected him.

"Drowsiness." He admitted as he looked up, staring

"Thank you. This has been very informative." Tae spoke as she let Ren sit up to collect his thoughts "So..." she smirked "If wish to keep doing this as my guiniepig, I don't mind selling you what you need."

"Yeah. I think I can manage that." Ren answered with a smile, feeling his heart shine

I am Thou, Thou art I.
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Death Persona,

I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power

Ren could hear the words ring in his head. The link was set.

"Alright then. You can leave now." She asked. "You can get back home right?"

"I can." He nodded

"So?" Tae asked lightly

"Thank you, Doctor." Ren answered as he stood up, still a little light-headed, but better. He stood up and left... and as he did so, it finally registered to him how attractive he found Tae "... Oh god..." he mumbled, putting his head in his hand


*time skip*

Joker appeared in Velvet Room the next day

"Urgh...What a day." Joker groaned as he shook his head. "Hey Igor." he commented, sitting down on a coach in the clock tower velvet room

"Welcome back, Joker. I see that you have been busy as of late." Igor commented

"Yeah." he smiled lightly, sitting down

"And you've made a few new Confidants." Lavenza followed up.

"Yeah, I did." Joker nodded

"The 'Lust Arcana'. Quite an interesting one." Lavenza opened her book and examined the contents

"Yeah. I didn't have that in the old time line." Joker nodded

"Of course you didn't." Igor answered plainly but sympathetically. "That poor girl was driven to suicide."

"I'm... Yeah." Joker nodded

"It wasn't your fault the first time around. You saved her this time." Igor answered. "And you've given her a better future."

"Thanks." Joker nodded and leaned back, crossing his legs as he relaxed "I have to say I didn't expect Shiho's arcana to be Lust."

"The Lust Arcana. Signifying a desire of all things. Of life, of purpose, of self-improvement." Igor explained "While most people signify Lust as a sexual act, it also relates to just basic desire in general."

"I see." Joker nodded

"So, what brings you here Trickster?" Lavenza asked as she sat next to him

"Well, one...To see if you two are okay." He answered as he held her hand "Second, to stock up on a good team of Persona."

"Very well. Whom will you summon to your cause?" Igor asked with a smile as his assistant snuggled up to Joker, opening the book she held and showing it too him

Joker looked at the names and pictures on the book, recalling their actions and knowing how each of them helped. 'Do I have enough to summon them all?' He thought as he looked at the list.

"Take your time, Joker." Lavensa cooed gently as she enjoyed being so close to him

"Well... I don't want to go with Persona who are too strong. It would make everyone suspicious." Joker mumbled, enjoying the feeling of Lavenza running her fingers through his hair

"May I offer a suggestion, Trickster?" Igor smiled "I suggest you choose Persona that align with the social links you have formed."

"Why?" Joker blinked

"With the aligned Persona, you can grow closer with your friends. Example, Slime is a 'Chariot', so he can help with Ryuji. Pixie is a 'Lovers' and that can help with Ann." Lavensa explained

"But there's no 'Lust' Arcana." He frowned

"None that you have seen yet." Igor commented

"Since I haven't been with Shiho." Joker realised

"Exactly." He slowly nodded

"How can I access them?" Ren asked

"By finding them." Lavensa chuckled as she poked his nose

"Very cute." He rolled his eyes.

"Thank you." She smiled.

"I wonder if there's any in Mementos?" He pondered

"Possibly." Igor commented softly

"Hmm~" Joker commented, looking through the book "Jack O' Lantern, Jack Frost, Agathion and Mandrake." he said as he pointed at the different lower level Persona he had acquired

"Of course. Payment is required though." Lavenza responded

"Of course." He nodded as he handed over some several thousand Yen "... Are they not here yet?"

"There's one more thing." Lavenza responded, pointing to her cheek.

"What?" he asked in confusion

"Kiss it." She pouted cutely. Igor just sighed and let this happen. He wasn't her parent, yet he didn't want to discourage her.

"Okay?" Joker blinked and did just that

Lavenza giggled happily and summoned the four Persona that Ren wanted with the four masks zoomed into Joker's mask

"And... Well... There is a third reason I came here." Joker added "I kinda needed some advice."

"Ask away." Igor responded, waving his hand.

"... What do I do?" Joker groaned "I only just realised then that I find Tae as attractive as I do. And, of course, I have feelings for Ann... And then there is Lavenza."

"Ah~. The 'Harem Dilemma'." Igor nodded in response, knowing this problem all too well.

...

"Wait. What?"

"You're not the first Wild Card to have this problem. And believe me, you won't be the last." Igor answered calmly. "Sit down and tell me what makes you attracted to them."

"... Already sitting down, but okay." Joker smiled proudly

Igor sighed and began to speak. "Why? Are you attracted to them?" Igor repeated

"Well..." he blinked

"Ye~s?" Lavenza smiled as she wanted the answer herself

"Who do I start with?"

"Start with the first." Igor answered

"Okay. Lavenza... She's adorable. Cute." Ren began to answer

"Awww." Said girl said happily "Keep going, my Trickster."

"You're... Knowledgeable. Friendly. Can probably kick my ass." Ren answered

"Yes. A shame I'm not allowed to join you in the Palaces." she giggled

"A given." Ren sighed. "Ann is... Amazing. Strong, confident, knows what she wants. At least the one I knew."

"I'm sure she will be that way again." Igor commented

"And~; the doctor?" Lavenza asked

"Oh god. Tae." Ren sighed softly

"Whatever you say is kept in the strictest of confidence." Igor reassured Ren.

"... She is so hot." he admitted

The two nodded in response, knowing who Tae Takemi was.

"She... Its hard to describe." he admitted "Physically? She is attractive as hell. And she has such a unique style. But... At the same time..."

"Dangerous and unpredictable?" Lavenza asked

"Something like that." He answered

"A weird mix of me feeling sorry for her and wanting to see her smile. It is an amazing smile. She doesn't deserve the shot she had to go through. And her sarcastic whit is... Wow."

Igor hummed and nodded. "Well, it seems you have your work cut out for you."

"So what do I do?" Ren asked

"Do you want me to tell you the story of Yuu Narukami?" Igor smiled

"'Yuu Narukami'? Who's he?" Ren asked

"The previous Wild Card. A previous 'Fool' as it were. One who had attained the power of The World." Igor answered cryptically "Have you heard of the idol, Rise? Also known as Reset?"

"Who hasn't? A famous idol who retired a few years ago before coming back bigger than before. A movie deal, records, great social life... why?" Ren responded and listed off her achievements.

"She was the Lovers Arcana of Mr Narukami, and I believe the reason she is taking a break for a few months, is to give birth to their child." Igor finished

"Oh... my god..." Joker blinked

"And that is just one of his lovers." Igor commented "As I have said, I have experience in seeing this scenario play out."

"... Wow..." Joker blinked

"Yes, many Wild Card's are considered 'ladies mans'." Lavenza nodded

"Is it really that common?" Joker blinked

"... So... about your problem." Igor commented, ignoring the question

The three chatted for a while, Joker feeling their bond grow

World Arcana: Rank 2


*time skip*

It was the next day, Ren had gotten up and ready to go out to Shibuya, going to collect some much-needed equipment. Plus, with the money he had acquired from Lavensa and Igor for reimbursement, he had more than enough. Plus he felt like he had gained a new ability from that social link. Either way he left for school, saying good bye to Sojiro as he did

"Don't get into trouble." Sojiro called out, sounding like he was warming up to him.

"I won't boss!" Ren waved,waving the store. Nodding to himself he raced off, heading towards the train station

Ren soon arrived at the train station, awaiting the train to come when Ryuji appeared behind him. "Hey, dude."

"Oh, Ryuji." Ren spoke.

"Listen err. We goin' to the Palace today? I mean, if we leave it this long." Ryuji commented

"It'll be fine. We've got time." Ren reassured him.

"I guess...But my foot's bouncing from nerves." Ryuji admitted

"Trust me." Ren nodded "Just another day or two. We are almost ready."

Ryuji groaned in worry. "I -really- hope you're right man."

"Joker knows what he's doing, he's a natural." Morgan nodded

"You carry the cat everywhere?" Ryuji asked as the trained pulled into the platform.

"Of course. But be quiet about him." Ren answered "He hides in my bag." At the school, Ren and Ryuji sat next to each other while they rode the train "Well. Here we are." Ren said as he closed his book, the two getting off the train

"What're you reading?" Ryuji asked

"'The Pirate Legend'. All about Captain Kidd." Ren answered

"Oh, okay... Wait. 'Captain Kidd'? As in-?" Ryuji nodded casually before it clicked

"Give the boy a prize, he's got it." Morgana quipped

"Yeah." Ren nodded "Captain Kid was a real pirate."

"Friggin' awe-shit." Ryuji smiled before he saw Kamoshida getting everyone in school... and with that smug look on his face.

"Let's just hurry up inside." Ren ordered

"Morning students. Morning, morning... Dead meat." Kamoshida spoke to each of the students before he saw the two and made the snide remark.

"Ignore him." Ren spoke as they moved forward, Ryuji wanting to deck him.

"Asshole." Ryuji hissed

"He'll get his dues, I promise." Ren whispered, pulling Ryuji inside. "I'm going to 'Untouchable' later. See if there's anything new."

"Okay." Ryuji nodded "Hope Takamaki and Shiho are having a better time than us."

"I'm sure." Ren sighed, wanting to stop Kamoshida.


*time skip*

Ren was now walking to Untouchable, if he was going to make the team as strong as it could be, he needed weapons for Shiho...and she couldn't just use a basic sword. "What're you going to get, Ren?" Morgana asked

"Hopefully some new gear." He answered. "Plus, I think we're lacking in the defense department."

"Let's just hope all clothes fit all sizes."

DING, DING.

"Huh? Oh, it's you." The owner of the model shop spoke, looking over the rim of his paper.

"Hi, I'm wondering... do you have any new models?" Ren asked

"What you see here, is what you get." He responded, gesturing the different weapons.

Ren hummed as he knelt down and saw the same stuff he did last time...until something caught his eye. "What's this?" He pointed to a model broadsword.

"Newest stock. That over saturated stupid trash Isakai genre has been an influx of 'traditional Western' weapons." The owner answered.

"Can I see any others?" Ren asked

The owner sighed heavily and folded his paper. "Lemme check." He grumbled, getting up and pulled out a drawer of broadswords. "Here." He stated simply.

"Hmm~" Ren hummed, looking at them and seeing what would fit Shiho best.

Inside the boxes were various broadswords with different, but historically accurate swords, reaching up to six feet in length and as short as four feet long.

This was a tough choice

'Hmm... I have to go for the most realistic. That would be the most useful in the Metaverse.' He thought as he looked at them... and saw one that looked exceptionally well made. "This one."

"Alright. That's 8,000 Yen. Anythin' else?" The owner asked

"Well..." Ren blinked, wondering what 'gun' Shiho would use

"Maybe you want to look at something else new?" The owner asked

"Yeah."

"Now, these are a bit 'off the menu' due to how realistic they are." The owner spoke, showing rows of grenade models making Ren's eyes widen "These are special ordered. No-one else is buying them. Expensive too." The owner spoke. "You have one of these... You're going to have a hard time explaining them."

Ren gulped, but at the same time he felt these worked perfectly for Shiho. Her volleyball skills, she could easily toss them into weak points or right behind a group of enemies to hit all of them

"So? What do you think? Somethin' old school like a WWI grenade? Or an incendiary?" The owner asked

"... I think... The cheapest, for now." he commented

"Alright then. Total is 11,560 Yen." The owner answered, passing over a passable replica of a basic pineapple grenade.

...

"What?" he blinked

"What? I've got to make a profit." The owner answered. "Don't get these out in public, okay?"

"Fine." Ren nodded, paying

"Here ya go kid." He passed over the items and let Ren leave.

'12,000 Yen spent already.' Ren thought to himself as he exited the shop with a depressed sigh

"Aren't there some part-time jobs you can do?" Morgana asked as he poked his head out from the bag.

"Not at LeBlanc." He shook his head. "And I haven't applied for any yet."

"Oh." Morgana blinked

"Maybe I should hang out with someone. Or play baseball." Ren added

"Yeah... You have the corresponding Persona right?" Morgana asked

"Yeah, of course." Ren nodded

"Go visit one of your friends." Morgana answered

"Yeah yeah." Ren laughed, heading to the station mall to find Ann

"The Station Mall? Oh~, Lady Ann." Morgana looked up and saw her, sighing contently.

"Ann!" Ren called

"Oh, Amamiya. What're you doing? Don't we have to stuff to do?" She asked

"I'm ahead of schedule. And wondered if you wanted to hang out?" Ren asked "It would be a good idea to get to know our team mates."

"Oh, that. That sounds nice." She smiled gently

Ren smiled as he felt Pixie, his Lovers Arcana, surge within him, knowing the connection would grow "Where do you want to go?"

"The diner?" She asked, with a kind smile.

"Yeah. Okay, sounds good." Ren nodded "I'll pay. Whatever you want, it's on me."

"Really? Thanks." Ann smiled as they left, going to Shibuya's diner.

"Anytime."

The two headed into the cafe, seeing people chatter in their respective booths, ordering coffee and parfait. "This place is nice; isn't it?" Ann asked

"Yeah. So comfertable." he nodded "So, what did you want to talk about?"

"Well, everything. All of this." Ann answered

Ren blinked but was silent, letting her speak

"It's just... days ago, I would've called you crazy or a stalker, saying that this whole thing was real. The Metaverse. Morgana. Palaces. It's just mind boggling." She admitted

"It's understandable. I had trouble with it the first time too." Ren admitted, though unintentionally letting slip about his first time round. Although if she spoke to Ryuji, they'd just assume he has a really good Poker face... Which he does

The two remained together and finished their coffee and parfait. "I... Had a nice chat. Thank you, Ama-Red." Ann answered

Something from both inside Ren and Ann began to swell, their connection, their Social Link was growing.

Lovers: Rank 2

"Anytime." Ren smiled "How's Shiho doing?"

"She's a lot better. Still shaken about Kamoshida, but...I'm just glad she's got her fire back, doing this has helped her." Ann answered as she held his hand "You're a great guy."

"Thanks." he smiled "Want me to take you to the train station?"

"I'd like that. Thank you." She nodded and walked with him.


*Time Skip*

Ren arrived back home, yawning

"Busy day today?" Sojiro spoke as he saw Ren yawning his head off. "Any chance that you've had dinner?"

"Sort of, basically." he shrugged

Sojiro sighed heavily and pulled out a dish of curry. "Here." He stated simply.

"Huh?"

"It's dinner. I don't want to be called 'wasteful'." He stated simply

"Thank you." he blinked

"Yeah. Don't forget to clean up, I have to get going." Sojiro answered as he picked up his keys.

"Off already?" Ren asked

"Yeah, it's important. And none of your business." He answered. "Don't forget to lock up."

"Okay. Want me to help in the store tomorrow?"

"I'd appreciate it. Thank you." Sojiro answered before he left.

"Hmm~, that curry smells great." Morgana commented as he leapt out of the bag.

"Want a bite?" he offered

"Really?" Morgana's eyes lit up with sparkles as he was hungry, sitting obediently.

"Sure." Ren smiled, using a spare fork to stab some of the pork and holding it out to Morgana

"AH~! Nom! Hmm~!" Morgana opened his mouth and bit into the fork, taking the curry gently and thoroughly enjoyed it. "Sho good!" He moaned with a mouth full making Ren smile

"Glad you like it, buddy." Ren said, scratching his ear


*Time Skip*

It was the following day, after Ren got up and headed out for school his attention was caught by Shiho. "Amamiya." She called out.

"Huh? Oh, hey Shiho. You could just call me Ren." he smiled

"Sorry, just being polite." She apologised, brushing her skirt off. "... Are. Are we going to the palace?" She asked nervously. "It's getting close till we're expelled."

"I promise, we're getting in there soon. But there are still things we need to do." Ren answered "I'll be ready by tomorrow."

"R-Right. Okay." Shiho nodded and fiddled with her bag.

The two entered the train, though sitting at other ends of the train, giving Ren time to read a book he got from the school's library. It was the book about Captain Kidd, which he had been able to finish by the time they pulled into the station "Ah, time well spent." Ren commented as he stood up, Morgana shuffling to make room for the book.

"Yep, I get you feel tougher from that." Morgana smiled as he knew Ren's 'Guts' would rise.

"Yeah." he nodded

The two walked to school thankful that Kamoshida wasn't there being the 'welcome committee'. Which was a relief.

VRR!
VRR!

'Dang it, Ryuji.' Ren thought as he looked at his phone. As he flipped open his phone, Ren saw the text thread.

'Meet up on the roof. We need to prepare.'

'Does the phrase 'broken record' mean anything to you, Ryuji?' Ann responded

'I know, but the deadline's getting closer. I don't want Kamoshida being here any more than anyone else.' Ryuji answered

'Why? Why EVERY time?' Ren thought

'Ryuji, stop being impatient. We'll settle this. Ren said so.' Shiho responded

'Wait, really?' Ryuji asked

'Yes. Can we hold off until later though?' Ren answered 'In the middle of class. Again.'

'Sorry, dude.' Ryuji apologised and stopped the texts.

Ren slipped his phone back into his pocket, sitting back in his chair 'We need to get this sorted.' He thought to himself.

"Ryuji's too impatient." Morgana whispered, his mews not caught by the teacher.

"Yeah."

Upstairs to the roof, the group had gotten together after their respective lessons "So? We all ready to go?" Ryuji asked

"I've been wondering that too." Shiho admitted

"We need to reach the treasure, Lady Shiho." Morgana added

"What will it be like?" Ann asked

"I don't know." Ren lied

"It depends on the person." Morgana explained

Ren closed his eyes, thinking of everything he had gathered. He'd bought some medicine from Tae, he upgraded their gear with Iwaei.

"Ren? You okay?" Ann asked

"Hmm? Oh, yeah. I'm fine." Ren responded "Just taking mental note on our preparations."

"You found anything?" Ryuji asked

"Yeah, I have. And I'll only hand them to you in the Palace. Just to be sure; okay?" Ren answered

"So?! Are we going?!" Ryuji huffed impatiently

"Fine." Ren sighed as he pulled out his phone. It was a day earlier than he had planned, he was hoping to spend today hanging out a few people and relaxing before they rushed in but Ryuji was just too much

"Let's go!" Morgana called as he jumped down from the table, the world warping around them in a series of red magic

Joker smirked, he had to hold back a cackle, as he brushed his trench coat

"Well, here we go." Skull commented, rolling his shoulder

"We've made good headway." Mona added, spinning his sword

"EEEEEEEEEEHHHHHH!" Ann shrieked, catching the boys attention

"What's up?" Joker asked, seeing Ann kneeling down softly while using her arms to shield herself

"Not these cloths again!" Ann cried

"Why?" Shiho mumbled, trying to get her jacket to cover as much of herself as possible

"It's how this place works." Joker commented, holding back a smile

"Yeah. And we're lucky about that." Skull giggled pervertedly

"Ryuji!" Ann snapped

"So. You two need code names." Joker commented

"Code names?" they both asked

"Phantom Thieves can't just go around calling each other by their real names!" Mona pointed out, jumping around

"Yeah. Joker, Skull and he's Mona." Skull said as he pointed at Ren, himself and then Morgana

"Oh. that makes sense." Shiho blinked

"Yeah! So, what should we call you?" Skull grinned at them, smirking "Hmm~, how about Sexy Cat? With that mask and catsuit?"

"Ew! No!" Ann snapped "I don't want to sound like some weak little kitten! Re-Joker, you got any ideas?"

"Panther?" he asked with a smile

"'Panther'?" Ann and Shiho asked as they looked at the costume.

"Yeah. Panther's good, while we're here, I'm 'Panther'." Ann nodded and accepted the code name.

"And what about me? What's my code name?" Shiho asked

"Hmm." Joker pondered as he tried to think of something.

"How about 'Bunny'?" Ryuji joked again.

"Not. Funny. Skull." Panther pointed at him.

"I honestly don't think 'Bunny' would work. Her mask has feathers." Joker responded

"What about Dove?" Shiho offered

"'Dove'?" The four asked in unison.

"Yeah. I mean, it's a symbol of freedom. And also a symbol of peace." She nodded with a smile and an enthusiastic clench of her fist.

"'Dove'. It works." Panther smiled, to which Skull gave a thumbs up.

"Welcome to the team, Dove and Panther." Mona smiled and leapt up.

"We should-" Dove spoke up.

"Hang on a minute. Just one thing." Joker spoke as he brought out the stuff from Untouchable. "Here. You can't keep using weak pieces of metal for your weapons." And he handed out the sword and grenades.

"Whoa!" Panther and Skull gasped in shock.

"These? Are mine?" Dove asked

"Absolutely." He nodded as Dove took them.

"Thanks, Joker." She smiled

"Make sure to spike them behind the enemy line." he winked

"You got it." Dove responded.

"Let's go!" Mona pointed at the castle.


*time skip*

The five were currently in the castle, currently on the third floor. After sneaking past enemies and attacking others, they were making good progress. They where back to the last safe room they had made it to, from just before they had to rescue Ann and Shiho

"Hmm." Dove frowned as they saw the corridor.

"Are you okay?" Skull asked

"It's just... Tough." Dove answered

"Yeah, I don't want to go down that way either." Panther agreed

"You're not who you were before." Joker followed up.

"Thanks Joker." Panther smiled as they went deeper

"Okay, we didn't get through here last time. So now, it's all-new territory. Stay on your guard." Mona spoke, pointing at the door.

"We know. We know." Skull rolled his eyes and his shoulder. The group rushed down a hallway, jumping from dark spot to dark spot

"I was never this fast before." Dove whispered in joy and shock.

"This world never ceases to amaze me." Skull smirked as they all spotted a Shadow

"Target set." Joker commented, moving like a streak of darkness.

"We're with you, joker." Panther whispered as they saw the 'target' as Joker ripped its mask off

In seconds a large beast was made, the Phantom Thieves all joined up as a small cluster

"Showtime." Joker smirked, aiming his gun