Vu Phi Ho: Yes it is, one upload a month.
shade357: Thanks man.
RegalCarnage19: Thanks, hopefully we can keep you entertained throughout it all
Sentry342: Yep.
Xerzo LotCN: Yeah, Ren's stats are all around 3/4
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Eien ni, adieu
Firem78910: What's with the missile launcher?
saltyoven: Yeah. Ren only remembers the big events, but only to a rough degree and not every detail about them.
GUIPA: Yeah, but I like having the readers guessing.
Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:
Lightsbane1905: Yeah, it's a throw away line in the story. But yeah, that fame went right to his head. I don't know those songs you're mentioning.
warrior of six blades: Yeah, it's those little inconsistencies this time around that make the group notice it.
saltyoven: Yeah, Ren's good, but he's not flawless... and it's 'Mary Sue' for the OP term, 'Peggy Sue' is the title of a Buddy Holly song.
codywhite162: Thanks for the positive feedback.
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Yep, the dude's in jail. And the better way to getting a harem.
Xerzo LotCN: Yeah, things are going to get a bit better from now on.
UnsanMusho: To be fair to us, we're going off what was shown in the base P5 game.
Sentry342: Yeah, I'm doing good. Oh trust us, he's going to get some big named guys.
PhantomDark: We're going to show some of the pass-times for Ren, the game is a billion hours long and we don't want to cram everything into this story. It'd get repetitive.
DJPlaysGames: Trust us, something big will happen coming up. And yeah this virus stuff is a bloody pain.
Mewtwo-TheLoneShadow: Yeah, we thought we'd give Shiho a bigger arc than in the game.
Vu Phi Ho: The story's still going, we're just taking out time with it.
Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.
Co-written by GhostKaiser23
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Yeah, this chapter is a BIT late this month. Sorry laughs
I have been a bit busy these past few weeks after I came back to work
This is a calmer chapter, I hope you all enjoy it.
Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 8: Strengthening Bonds
It was the following day, Ren had arrived at the school's gate while walking with Ryuji "He's not in again today." Ren commented with a grin "We have a week to go."
"You think so? I mean... He's gonna be alright; right?" Ryuji asked, thinking about what Morgana said.
"It's fine, we didn't hurt or kill his inner self, he's just feeling the weight of his sins." Morgana mewed back
"Yeah. He's just 'having an epiphany'." Ren nodded
"I hope that's it... Hnn." Ryuji hoped before he felt his leg twinge in pain slightly.
"Are you okay?" Ren asked.
"I'll be fine. Just my leg." Ryuji brushed it off
"What exactly happened?" Ren asked
"It's...a long story." Ryuji sourly responded.
"I've got time. And I won't judge." Ren answered.
Sighing heavily Ryuji nodded. "My dad's an abusive asshole, he abandoned my mum and me. She struggled through hell to keep us together. When I got here, I knew what I wanted to do; be a star athlete. That way, I could take the pressure off of her, give back everything she did for me. Kamoshida didn't like that. He saw me and the team as a threat and started abusing the eff out of us." He started to explain, the vitriol in his voice becoming clearer why he is such a hot-head and why Kamoshida started to abuse him. "Then... he blabbed. Told everyone about my parents. I got so mad. Just wanted to shut him up. I saw red... broke my leg in half. Called it 'self-defense' and everyone saw it as such."
Ren swallowed his anger towards Kamoshida again, having heard this story before... but it didn't make it any less painful to hear.
Ryuji sighed and stood still. "The track disbanded and Kamoshida looked like an effing hero. I got labelled the 'Traitor' cause of what I did. And due to that...we couldn't go to the championships. All because I couldn't-"
"Because that asshole targeted your weakness." he said confidently, putting a hand on his shoulder "He took a sledge hammer and hit you in the one place who knew would break you. The asshole knew how to hit people's buttons and convince them to react how he wanted. You're a good guy Ryuji."
Ryuji looked at Ren, feeling better to share his story with his friend... though it didn't change anything, the burden was lightened. "Thanks, Ren."
"Hey, guys." Ann walked up to them with Shiho.
"Sorry, were we interrupting anything?" Shiho asked
"No, not at all." Ren answered as he smiled at them softly, nodding
"Guess it's back to guessing questions in class." Shiho answered. "How're you feeling?"
"I'm alright... You?" Ryuji asked as he looked at her arm.
"Same." she nodded "I've healed."
"That's good." Ren commented
"Guess we should get to class." Ann followed up
"We'll see you guys later." Ren responded
Shiho and Ryuji waved, the groups heading to their own classrooms
"Hey, did you hear the Detective Queen Naoto was getting married?" Ann asked
"No way. She's the original Detective Prince, right? Everyone thought she was a guy." Ren blinked
"Right!" she nodded with a smile "She is going to be Naoto Narukami. Good for her."
"'Narukami'?" He repeated the last name before he gained a small smirk, hearing that his predecessor had married not once but multiple times. It would be something he would have to look into more, but he was at least happy everything seemed to be good
"Yeah... have you heard of him before?" Ann asked "It's not a common name."
"I've heard it somewhere before." He answered. The two shared a smile, entering class
"Welcome back, class." The teacher spoke as they all sat down. Sadao yawned and rubbed her gave weakly, getting into her position at the front of the class
The class mumbled, saying 'she looks exhausted' and 'she's more tired than we are'. But Ren knew what it was. His fist clenched at his side but... He couldn't do anything about it, not yet. It was too early. Who knows what would happen if he rushed this
"O-kay class." She yawned but covered her mouth. "Let's take a look at the schedule."
Everyone nodded, sitting back in their seats as they got ready
*time skip*
"I swear, she's getting worse." Ann spoke in concern for the teacher. "She's barely staying awake in class."
"It's like she doesn't even care." another student commented casually
Soon, the rest of the class talked badly about their teacher. They were... turning on her. Unaware of why she was so tired and Ren felt disgusted by them
Ren left the classroom, noticing Ryuji "Hey man."
"Oh, hey Ren. Listen do you have time?" Ryuji asked
"Sure. What's up?"
"Well, I want to get some training in. I almost got crushed when we exited... y'know. I need to get better." Ryuji explained. "I was hoping you'd be my running partner in this."
"Of course man. Let's go." he nodded. The two headed outside after changing into their PE clothes and began to run laps around the school.
*time skip*
Ren panted, feeling sweat drip down 'D-Damn, I am a bit out of shape.' he thought
"Hoo! That. That was good." Ryuji followed up. "Want another run?"
"You're crazy, Ryuji." Ren chuckled gently.
"Yeah, but it helps." He answered. "Just hope my legs don't give out before I get home." There was a moment of silence before the two laughed harder
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" An irritated voice spoke up as a group of boys wearing tracksuits approached.
"N-Nakaoka? Takeishi?" Ryuji gasped in shock
"You were running; huh? I saw you from the window." Nakaoka inquired
"You trying to crawl your way back onto the team?" Takeishi followed up, being just as condescending as Nakaoka.
"Or maybe he is trying to recover, because an injury like that leaves lasting damage and he wanted to build his muscles back up because he cares about his health?" Ren shot back casually
"Who the hell are you?" Nakaoka asked
"Wait... Aren't you that new guy? The ex-delinquent?" Takeishi followed up. "The one the rumours are all about."
"Ones that Kamoshida intentionally spread." Ren informed them with the sports team scoffing in disbelief
"You can't train here, Sakamoto." One of the other boys answered
"Why not?" Ryuji asked
"Cause it's our turf. Ever since our team was dropped in favour for the Volleyball team." Takeishi responded "Now fuck off."
"Hey, let's not fight. There's enough room here." Ren tried to calm everything down
"We ain't fighting." Ryuji responded
"No there isn't. We don't even have lockers anymore." Nakano followed up. "Also, this isn't a fight. Not even close."
"Especially with this thug around. He's just like his shit-hole dad; beating up everyone." Takeishi followed up
"That's nothing to do with this!" Ryuji immediately snapped from that trigger
"Ryuji, just endure it. We'll go; alright?" Ren responded. He grabbed his friends arm, squeezing slightly
"... fine." Ryuji swallowed his anger as best as he could and left with Ren. He two left, walking off "Damn that stung." Ryuji hissed under his breath.
"Yeah, but you didn't lose your cool too much." Ren responded, trying to help calm him down but also praise him.
"Really?" Ryuji said nervously
"Yeah, I think so." Ren nodded. "You've already kept your cool around Kamoshida." His heart began to shine as Ryuji blushed and smiled, laughing at him
Chariot: Rank 2
*Time Skip*
Ren was walking back to LeBlanc having returned his book from the school's library. He, of course, got a new one as well "Hmm... What should I do?" he mumbled
"What's today?" Morgana yawned from inside the bag, stretching gently.
"Not sure. We're still not allowed to leave Yongen-Jaya." Ren yawned
"Isn't the bathhouse open?" Morgana asked. "That could be good."
"Yeah. I could use a soak." Ren nodded
"Shame I can't come in, it would've been great." Morgana pouted.
"Yeah, I know." Ren nodded and then thought of Mona soaking in the hot tub wearing a shower cap. That one singular thought made him chuckle
"What's so funny?" Morgana asked with a frown
"Nothing." He responded as he approached LeBlanc.
"Ah, you're back." Sojiro responded
"Yeah, I'm going to the bathhouse; if that's alright." Ren informed him.
"No problem. Don't forget to-" Sojiro began to answer before stopping. "Y'know what? You're doing okay."
"Thanks Boss."
"You need a towel or anything?" Sojiro asked
"I've got it covered." Ren reassured him.
"... You're not taking Morgana, are you?"
"No, he'd accidentally clog the drains." Ren smirked
"Hey!" Mona frowned
"C'mon, Mona. I'll get you something to eat." Sojiro answered
"Tuna!" Morgan cheered
"He wants tuna." Ren smiled
"Err. Okay." Sojiro answered.
"I'll be back later." he waved
"Don't stay in there too long." Sojiro called out as Ren got a towel from his room.
"I won't!" Ren walked over to the baths that were just around the corner of the cafe and saw in the tight corner, next to a laundromat was the door to the Yongen-Jaya baths. He could already tell that this was going to be relaxing
The steam of the baths hit him in the face almost immediately, he went to an empty locker and put his belonging inside, stripping down and dipped into the warm herbal baths to soothe his aching muscles from all he had done recently "Oh, this is what I need. I can tell already." he said to himself, not noticing the place was oddly quiet "Thought it would be busier." He muttered and soaked in the mugwort infused bathwater.
"So did I." the familiar voice of Tae chuckled from the other side of the bath
"Dr Takemi? You're here too?" Ren asked nervously as he had read this scenario many times before in manga.
"Ah, yes. I just needed relaxation." she nodded
"Yeah, same here. I've been stressed about a few things myself." He answered, trying to keep his cards close to his chest.
The doctor nodded, relaxing on the water "You're not like other boys are you?" She asked, having closed her eyes
"What do you mean?" Ren questioned
"Some would leap at the chance to see a woman's body. You're not." Tae commented
"Ah. Well... I know what would happen if I tried to: I'd end up with a concussion." Ren answered. "I'm not taking that chance." He rubbed his head softly and grinned "Besides. Why would I betray my doctors trust like that?"
"Smart boy." She responded as she slipped under the water a little bit so that her shoulders were covered while slowly moving closer to him
"Um, Dr Takemi?" Ren asked nervously as he felt the splashes get closer to him.
"Yes, My Giniepig?"
"Aren't you getting a little close?" He followed up, closing his eyes
"Aren't you getting a bit red?" she teased... Before she turned on the hot water
"YA-HOO! OW! Hoo! That's red hot!" He almost leapt out of the water, making Tae laugh
"You shouldn't sit so close to it then." she joked/teased
Ren grabbed a towel and covered up his modesty and felt the sting of the hot water on his back slowly soothing... though admittedly, he did feel more relaxed.
"Hmm~" Tae moaned softly as she relaxed in the hot water "So, how's school going? I heard some sort of shit was going on down there."
"It... It's going fine." He answered, not mentioning about Kamoshida's 'expulsion'.
"You sure?" she asked, noticing a bruise on his arms "Because I recommend you coming for a check up tomorrow."
"Oh. Okay, sure I'll do that." He answered, looking at his arm. He couldn't help but smile, she was already getting worried for him. That was the Tae he remembered. Always pretending not to care when she had the biggest heart he'd ever met
"Good, I expect to see you after school." Tae instructed.
"Okay." Ren nodded, the two just enjoying the warmth
*the next day*
"Hey Ren." Shiho walked towards him, as they were about to head to school.
"Hey." he smiled at the new member of the team, in his eyes at least
"I'm a little worried. I... Did the right thing, right? Back at the Palace." Shiho asked
"You did." Ren nodded "You did perfect." he praised and patted her shoulder
She smiled at him in relief and sighed gently. "Thank you."
The two boarded the train and headed to the school. The train was a hustle and bustle, Ren making sure to stay close to Shiho
"Epp!" Shiho suddenly squeaked
"What's wrong?" Ren asked
"Someone just touched my butt." she muttered, her face red as her eyes dashed around the room. Her breath was clearly getting ragged as she shook, she was clearly hyperventilating
"Quick, get in front of me." He offered, protecting her and used his arms as cover. He sat down and sat her on his lap, acting like a large protective Teddie bear
"Thank you, Ren." She blushed as she held her bag close, covering her chest up.
"I... Don't think that person did it on purpose." she muttered before she went quiet, still shivering
"That's an excuse." Ren answered, being a little cynical as the train slowed down
"I guess you would've said that." Shiho frowned. "After... everything."
"Yeah, I'm not giving any quarter to anyone who sexually assaults anyone." Ren answered as they got off the train... And Shiho rushed off as fast as she could, throwing up into a trash can. Ren blinked in shock as he saw her. "Shiho..." He realised and carefully stroked her back to soothe her
"Oh god... Oh god..." she mumbled
"It's alright. I'm sorry." Ren apologised, feeling like he was the cause of this.
"Not... Your fault." she shuddered as she then began to cry "I... No! I'm..." pulling back from the bin she stumbled backwards, falling against the wall and hugging her knees "The guy didn't even mean it! His hand just brushed against me! I... Why? I'm so pathetic!"
"Hey, hey. It's okay. You're not pathetic." Ren reassured her, kneeling down to her level.
"Why?" she cried "He didn't... He didn't mean it... But... All I could remember. All... It was just him all over again. Grabbing me, threatening... Why?"
Ren frowned as he held her hand. "Trauma...It doesn't leave very easily, Shiho." He knelt in front of her, one hand holding hers while the other rubbed her head softly "What happened to you... It was terrible. An act caused to you by a monster. I'm... Sorry."
"Why am I so weak, Ren?" She asked, trying to ignore the acid taste in her mouth.
"You. Are not. Weak." Ren frowned, pushing their foreheads together
"But. But I-." She frowned, looking at his glasses covered eyes.
Ren sighed, letting his 'Joker' mindset out. He saw this situation like one of his many heists, she needed the confident leader right now. Taking a deep breath he opened his eyes, which where shinning with confidence as he grinned "Listen Shiho. You're not weak. That guy just broke a bone in your heart. Injuries take time to recover. Me, Ann, Morgana and even Ryuji will happily help you do so. We will be there to support you. So don't think you are weak. You are strong, which is why you will stand strong again. Alright?" he asked with his charming smile as he slipped his glasses off... and put them on Shiho, using a single finger to push them up the bridge of her nose
Shiho blinked in shock as she saw Ren... no. Joker, look out for her as she saw his eyes without a mask or glasses "... Guess these aren't prescriptions." She joked nervously.
"Nope. I think they look cool. And fits me well." he winked, joking "... Feeling better?"
"Yes. I-I feel better." Shiho answered as she stood up slowly "I... Want to be stronger." she said confidently... Or at least a LOT more confidently than earlier
"And you will. It'll take time, but you'll get stronger." Ren nodded
Lust: Rank 2
"Thank you Ren." Shiho smiled as she took the glasses off, passing them back to him
"You know, you look nice with glasses on." Ren smirked as he put his glasses back on his face.
Shiho blushed and nudged him gently "Don't flirt. You might make me fall for you." she said nervously, clearly trying to sound cheeky like how Ann would have responded
Ren rubbed the back of his neck and nodded, keeping quiet until they were back at school "We should hurry. We don't want to be late."
"You're right." she nodded
*time skip*
Ren approached the clinic, rubbing the back of his neck nervously "Welcome back, I was worried that you were going to flake." Dr Takemi commented
"Well, you did ask for me to come." Ren answered "I'm not going to miss an appointment from my amazing doctor."
"That's good to hear." As she looked at him and then held a beaker filled with medicine "Now. Let us begin."
"Cheers." Ren raised the beaker and drunk it. He chugged and chugged and chugged "Ah!" He gasped as he felt his head wobble gently.
"No signs of side effects yet." Dr Takemi wrote down as she sat back, humming while uncrossing and then recrossing her legs
...
"There nothing... Wait, no. Here we go." Ren smiled, before the effects came on and fainted.
"Hmm~" Tae nodded, taking note of the reactions "Delayed reaction, instant fainting." She wrote down her notes
*small time skip*
"Again?" Ren mumbled as he awoke
"Welcome back, Guinea Pig." Dr Takemi smiled as she saw him wake up.
"Ow..."
Dr Takemi scooted over on her chair and examined Ren's eyes and complexion. "No signs of lingering damage." while Ren just sat there, admiring her and relaxing "How're you feeling?" She asked
"Kinda better." He answered "I think you for rid of the cold I was about to come down with." he added charmingly
"That's good to know. I'm glad that you don't have any other underlying problems." She answered with a smirk as, while being bent over, she gave him a good view down her dress
Ren blushed and gulped heavily, as he 'accidentally' saw her cleavage. 'Oh god. Those breasts!' He thought, covering his mouth. He quickly recovered, smiling at her
"So, how're you feeling with this medicine?" Dr Takemi asked
"Fine." he smiled
"Good... So why do you want this medicine?" She inquired with a small smirk.
"As I said, my exams."
"Alright. I won't pry anymore." She responded, waving it off.
"Although I do think that medicine is having an effect." Ren joked
"Good, I bet you wouldn't be adverse to inform me about it?" Dr Takemi asked, clicking her pen.
"I think you can see it." he joked and gestured his head down
"Cute." She chuckled lightly and took notes. "Oh, look at the time, you might want to head home."
"Maybe I don't want to?" he teased back
Dr Takemi chuckled and nodded, seeing his defiance to her suggestions before she lightly smacked his head with her clipboard
He rubbed his forehead and sighed. "Okay. I'll be back next time."
"Good." she chuckled
Death Rank 2
Ren left the Doctor's room and left, wondering if Morgana was okay with Sojiro.
...
*at Leblanc*
Sojiro was sitting on a chair, with Morgana in his lap...almost roughly stroking the cat.
Morgan was putting, relaxing "Nyaaa!" He stretched as Sojiro fussed him. 'This is great.'
"Oh~" the older man laughed
Ding, Ding!
"I'm back." Ren called out, walking in as he saw Sojiro with Morgana. He smiled, a heartfelt grin spreading on his face. Morgana meowed and leapt down, walking to Ren and leapt up majestically onto his shoulders. "Hey, Morgana." He smiled, fussing under his chin.
"That cat sure loves you, Ren." Sojiro chuckled.
"What can I say, he's like my little brother." Ren said in a seemingly joking tone
Sojiro chuckled at that. "Well, as long as you're looking after him."
"Of course." Ren smiled, heading upstairs
"So, how was the doctor's?" Morgana asked as he rested on Ren's shoulders.
"Good." Ren chuckled as he turned on the TV.
Today we've got a great deal today. 'Adhesive Bands' a pack of 50. All for the low, low price of 1980 Yen.
"Is this a good deal?" Larvenza asked
"Yeah, it is. If I remember right, those heal us a little bit and considering they do the same as the cans... It might come in handy." Ren nodded and placed the order, sitting next to Lavenza
...
"Gah!" he and Morgana yelled, jumping back
"So this is your room?" she blinked getting a proper look at it this time
"Yes. That's right. How did you get here? Sojiro is downstairs!" Ren panicked
"I entered?" she tilted her head before she disappeared in a flurry of blue butterflies made of light. A few moments later the butterflies returned and reformed
"... Okay. Didn't know you could do that." Ren blinked in shock.
"That is me passing to and from the Velvet Room." she explained
"Ah, right...I'll have to log that away." He mumbled.
The blonde nodded and got up, looking around his room in fascination "This is kind of... small. But. I don't think it's bad." Lavenza commented as she looked around. "What's this?"
"That's... My bed?" he blinked
"Really?" she blinked "It is much bigger and nicer than the one in the prison."
"Definitely. The one in the prison was like a solid block of wood." Ren answered
Lavenza nodded and sat on the bed, bouncing a few times "Hmm~. Soft, plump, comfy... Zzz... Zzz... Zzz..."
"Did... Did she just...?" Morgana blinked
And yes, sure enough, Lavenza had fallen asleep as she just SAT on Ren's bed
"Oh Trickster, you're so sweet... Zzz... Zzz..." she spoke as she slept "What... You want to show me your special fusion?... Zzzz... Zzzz... Oh my... Zzz... Careful... That could be very dangerous... Zzz... No... Don't touch my book... Splitting in two... No!" she suddenly sat up straight, her eyes wide in fear, before she relaxed to her normal state "Did I speak in my sleep?"
"Yes." Both Ren and Morgana responded nervously.
"Quite graphically." Morgana added
"What do you do with that?" she asked, looking at the roof as she ignored what Morgana had said
"I use it to train." Ren said as he looked up at the ceiling beams
"Really? No wonder you're in shape." She blinked before she whispered "Okay! Train now." she smiled happily
"Now?" Ren asked
"Now." She nodded.
...
"I. Okay." He answered, setting up the chair and switched clothes to his gym-clothes. Or rather just took his shirt off. He reached up and gripped the top banister, beginning to do pull ups
"Yes Trickster, that's it! 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2!" the Velvet Room attendant chanted
"Could you keep it down? Sojiro might hear you!" Morgana panicked while Ren was doing his workout.
"He will not. 1, 2, 1, 2!" Lavenza smiled and chanted "Come now Trickster, work those muscles! It is for your own good!"
"Aren't you. Enjoying this. A little. Too much?" Ren asked as he pulled up each time.
"Nonsense." she giggled lightly
Mona sweat dropped, noticing the blush on her face 'She's enjoying this.' Morgana sighed heavily and curled up on the bed, trying to ignore them
Ren was eventually laying on the ground, panting in exhaustion
"Forty-seven pull-ups. Amazing!" Lavenza clapped her hands happily as she looked at his slowly toning body
"Thanks..."
"May I?" She asked as she held a towel up for him.
"May you...?" he blinked
"Dry you off." She asked, holding a towel up and hid her blush.
"Er... Sure?"
Lavenza smiled and almost skipped over to him, towel drying him off...and she seemed to be taking her time on his abs and muscles a bit longer than should have.
"Heh." Ren chuckled nervously
"Sorry; am I being too rough?" Lavenza asked cutely as she moved down his back now.
"No, it's fine." he commented
'He's so toned!' She thought happily, rubbing his back down until he was dry.
"Thanks."
"No problem...You know, I think your 'Guts' might've grown a bit." She smiled and blushed
"Yeah."
"Hmm~" she hummed, looking around the room again "Oooh! I sense a magical Aura coming from this! It is where you make your infiltration tools, correct?"
"Yeah, that's right. Why?" He asked nervously as he pulled himself up.
"May I try?" she asked, her eyes shinning in joy
"Err. Sure, go ahead." Morgana and Ren nodded, letting her work her magic.
Click
click
"So... Like this?"
Click
Click
"And..."
SNAP!
"Ah." Lavesta nodded in a monotone voice "It broke."
"It broke?" The two groaned.
"Seriously?" Morgana followed up.
"Here, let me show you." Ren sighed and walked over with the blonde nodded simply. As Ren sat down, he turned to Lavenza. "What were you trying to make?"
"Not sure." she admitted
"Well then." Ren cracked his knuckles and worked on making some lockpicks.
"No~" Mograna whined
"What? What's wrong, Mona?" Ren asked as he turned around.
"More lockpicks." he joked, since they both knew Joker went a bit insane with those things
"Ah... Guess some smoke bombs might be more helpful." He chuckled while Lavenza blinked
"Take notes if you want to help." Morgana turned to the blue dressed woman.
"Hmph!" Lavenza huffed
*Time Skip*
"Wow!" Lavenza muttered
"And that. Is how you make some gear." Ren leaned back and smiled with the blue dressed girl clapping
"Amazing, Trickster!" she praised
"Thanks... Wait, what's the time?" Ren asked
"Late." Morgana responded
"Oh..." Ren blinked before he fell onto the bed
Lavenza blinked and 'sneakily' went over to Ren's bed and laid next to him as she snuggled against him
'... That's a little too close, Ms Lavenza.' Morgana thought as he looked on them...and a little miffed that his spot on the bed was taken up. But he did smile lightly
World: Rank 3
* ? ? ?*
"... You're serious. This young woman was sleeping in your bed?" The silver-haired woman asked as she sat opposite of Ren at the interrogation table.
"What?" Ren shrugged
"It just sounds implausible that it would happen." The woman answered
...
"Really? After everything that happened, that's the bit you're having problems with?" Ren couldn't help but chuckle
"A magic girl. Made of butterflies. Appeared before you. And considering these 'palaces'. Yes, it's problematic." She responded
*The Next Day*
Ren smiled as he met up with Ryuji, the two ready for some more training "Hey man, you alright?" Ryuji asked
"Yeah, I'm good." He nodded
"Hey, Kamoshida's going to confess; right?" Ryuji asked
"Of course." Ren assured. He understood Ryuji's worry, but it did feel slightly irritating to be asked this every day
"I really hope we didn't eff up, man." Ryuji answered as they arrived at school.
"We'll be fine." he assured
"Hey, want to train again? I think my leg might be getting better." Ryuji asked
"Of course. Around the school again or anywhere else?" Ren asked
"Well, there's this gym in town; we can go there." He answered
"Sure."
"Good morning everyone. I hope you've had a good weekend." Ms Kawakami spoke up, yawning gently to try and wake herself up and found another can of coffee on her desk. She smiled softly, rolling her eyes
Ren took his place behind Ann, relaxing in his chair "She looks exhausted, Ren." Ann whispered behind her.
"I know, that's why I'm trying to help her." Ren whispered back.
"What? You bought the coffee?" she blinked
"Yeah. I thought it'd help." Ren nodded, not denying it.
"... Wow..." she blinked again
"Now, we're going to go over some of the things we've learned this term for the exams later." Ms Kawakami spoke up
*time skip*
Ren and Ryuji where now at the gym "Okay, you knew what to bring right?" Ryuji asked
"... fresh underwear and towels?" Ren asked cautiously since it had been a long while since he had been to a gym making Ryuji laugh
"Yeah. Yeah, that's right." Ryuji nodded and rubbed his eyes. "Nothing worse than having a shower and then getting into sweaty clothes."
"Right." Ren agreed
The two students headed inside and saw the multiple pieces of equipment that the gym provided, sure it wasn't as funded as the school's own gym, but it was modest and respectable. Weight racks, treadmills and the like. It all helped for any and all who wanted to get into shape.
"Damn." Ren chuckled "Well, looks like we won't be wanting much."
"You can say that." Ryuji nodded as he rolled his shoulder.
"Yeah." Ren grinned "Where to first?" making Ryuji laugh
"The treadmill first, I think." Ryuji answered, pointing to it.
"Right." Ren nodded
*Time Skip*
Both Ren and Ryuji had spent quite a while on the treadmills and lifting weights, all to revitalise their muscles and to help heal Ryuji's leg to more fighting form.
"Ah! That. That was intense." Ryuji admitted as he turned to the less stressed Ren.
"Yeah, it was." Ren agreed
"Ryuji?" A different voice spoke up, seeing Ryuji in shock.
"Huh? S-Senpai? You're here?" Ryuji looked up and backed off gently in awe.
"I thought it was you." The man responded with a kind tone. "How've you been?"
Ren blinked and sat back, taking the new guy in
The young man looked to be a year or two older than Ryuji. Brown haired, strong but lean build, wearing a red and white vest with black shorts and socks with red sneakers.
Ryuji talked to him for a little bit, talking about each other and their respective track teams; the older one commenting how he would be going to a championships with his own team soon.
"Oh, Senpai. This is Ren, he's my new friend." Ryuji spoke, pointing to Ren behind him. "Ren, this is my Senpai from the track team. He's the one who got me into running."
"Nice to meet you." Both Ren and Ryuji's Senpai shook hands. "And thanks for looking after this guy."
"He doesn't make it easy." he joked
Ryuji dropped slightly and snapped. "Hey, I'm not that bad." All the while his Senpai was laughing at Ren's joke.
"I'm glad to see you're back into the sport, Ryuji. After what Kamoshida did to you... I'm sorry." He apologised
"You've nothing to apologise for, it was my bad." Ryuji answered "If I hadn't raised to him-"
Ryuji's Senpai sighed and put his hand on his shoulder. "Don't beat yourself up again. That guy baited you. Any person would rise to that occasion. Besides, what's happened, happened; you can't change the past."
"Yea, I guess."
Ren looked to the ground, knowing to keep quiet about this right now. Ryuji needed this support from his senior
"Well, Senpai... It's good to see you again. Good luck; okay?" Ryuji spoke out of respect.
"My team and I are going for the cup." The Senpai smiled, giving a thumbs up and walked off.
"He seems like a good guy, Ryuji." Ren commented
"He is... I gotta be honest, it's good seeing him again." Ryuji answered, before he smelt his vest. "Jeez. Shower time."
Chariot Rank: 3
*Time Skip*
Ren arrived back at Leblanc, sighing 'What a day.' He thought sadly as he felt his body ache from the gym...though he did welcome the exercise "Hey Soujiro. Need help?" he asked tiredly
"Huh? Oh, yeah. Thank you." Sojiro responded as he was snapped out of his 1000 yard stare.
"What's wrong?" Ren asked in worry
"Sorry, I have something on my mind." He apologised
"Anything I can help with?" Ren questioned in worry
"No. No, it's not your concern." He answered as he got up.
Ding, ding.
"Huh?" Ren blinked, looking at the source of the noise
In walked a man with a dark blue cap, wearing a dark grey shirt and brown trousers. "Sojiro. Good to see you." The man smiled as he walked in confidently and with a swagger.
"You." Soujiro hissed
Ren turned around and knew this man...oh, how he hated this man. The one who hurt Futaba. This was her uncle. A distant one, one that she was bounced too after... what happened. He wanted to smash this guys face in. Just the mental image of the red head being upset hurt him
"Have you got the money?" The man asked
Ren, go upstairs. This doesn't concern you." Sojiro instructed, trying to keep this matter private.
"I think that it does." Ren answered, standing his ground "It looks like this guy is trying to force a good man to give up money for no reason, aka trying to rob you. I'm not letting that happen. '
"'A good man'? I'm the good man, kid. He's just babysitting." The cap-wearing man responded
"Ren. Upstairs. Now." Soujiro ordered
Ren didn't want to do this... but hearing Sojiro say this and the stature he was giving off, meant that he wasn't messing around. He sighed and did as he was told. He headed upstairs and let Morgana out of his bag... and he punched his bed in anger. 'Damn it!'
"Ren?" Morgan asked in confusion
"That bastard. I remember him." Ren whispered. "He's Futaba's uncle."
"Futaba?"
"She... She's a member of the Phantom Thieves. Sojiro's adopted daughter. At least, from the first time around." Ren explained, before he sighed and sat down "And she will be a member... Time travel is weird."
"Ah, I see." Morgana wiped his face with his paw. "And seeing that guy has brought back memories."
"Yeah."
"Well. We'll just have to do better this time. We'll save Futaba and stop this guy." Morgana answered as he sat tall.
"Yeah." he grumbled
"We should head to bed, it's been a hell of a day." Morgana commented
"... No. Not yet. I'll wait until the guys gone. Sojiro might need someone to talk to."
"Sorry. I didn't mean-"
"I know what you meant." Ren responded, stroking his head. Morgan tried not to purr, but he failed. Ren just chuckled as he heard his friend purr like that. 'This time. We'll fix everything.' He soon heard the door spam closed, knowing now was the time to head downstairs "Stay here." He whispered to his friend and walked downstairs.
Sojiro had his head in his hand and a fist on the countertop. "Damn him!"
"You okay?" Ren asked
"I thought I told you to stay upstairs." Sojiro sighed heavily.
"You did... But then I heard the door." Ren answered "Meaning he left. You're doing a lot to help me. The least I can do is be here to listen if you need to rant or need any form of help."
Sojiro looked at Ren with a strange look and sighed and rubbed his eyes "Thanks for the concern but it's none of your business. Come over here, I'll teach you how to make a good cup of coffee. I need to get my mind off this mess."
"Right." Ren nodded while putting on his apron and joining Sojiro's side, Ren feeling his heart shine as they worked
Heriophant: Rank 3
*the next day*
It was after school, Ren had gotten his fair share of vending machine drinks, vital supplies in the Metaverse. As he was approaching the front gate he spotted Shiho looking scared "Shiho? Are you okay?" Ren asked gently, trying not to scare her.
"Oh! Ren! I didn't see you there." she gasped lightly
"Are you alright? You look terrified." He commented gently, trying to help.
"Just... There are so many people." she muttered and shook her head "No, that's not it. It's not that there are so many people... They all know what happened. I can hear them muttering, feel them looking at me. Staring. Judging."
Ren sighed heavily and frowned. "Why don't we go to the cafe? We can talk there?" He offered
"You sure?"
"Yeah, I'll treat you to some free coffee." He smiled reassuringly as he took his glasses off, slipping them onto Shiho's face "Okay?"
Shiho blushed and tucked her hair behind her "O-okay." She stammered gently as she adjusted the glasses
*at Leblanc*
"Ah, you're-oh. Hello." Sojiro spoke as he was serving customers... a customer, when Ren and Shiho walked in while Shiho still wore his glasses
"Hey." Ren waved
"I knew those glasses weren't prescription." Sojiro shook his head "If you want coffee, you're making it."
"I was planning to." Ren nodded. "Shiho, please." He asked and pointed to an empty booth.
"You're doing that down here?" Sojiro sighed but let them do so
Shiho nodded, sitting down "Thank you, Sir." Shiho appreciated it as she sat down while Ren started to make coffee
"Look at that, Sorjiro. You've gotten some help after all." The customer, an elderly gentleman, chuckled innocently.
"Yeah yeah."
"Here you go, Shiho." Ren spoke, carrying a couple of cups of coffee to the table for themselves.
"Thank you." she smiled
"How're you feeling?" He asked as he sat opposite her.
"A bit... Better."
"If you need to get anything off your chest, you can talk to me." Ren offered
"It's... It's terrifying." Shiho began to explain. "In my dreams... I still see what almost happened."
Ren was silent and listened, gripping her hand soothingly
"Sometimes. I imagine him grabbing me, holding me down. Unable to move. Unable to run. Just pinned there." Shiho gulped as she tried to recall the dream, though it was obvious she was disturbed by it "And then he rips my cloths and... It happens."
"Shiho..." Ren muttered "Does... Does Ann know?"
The sports girl shook her head, holding back tears "I hate this Ren... I hate it! I don't... I don't want this to be my life! I don't want it to be all I am!"
"It won't." He reassured her. "Trauma like this, it doesn't go away overnight. It takes time. Confronting it is the first step."
Shiho was silent and snuffed lightly
"Shiho, you're strong. What happened will never happen again." Ren reassured her "What is important now isn't forgetting it happened. It isn't just pushing it away, pretending it didn't exist. It isn't 'magically getting fixed'... It's about you learning about yourself. About learning how this affected you and working out how your friends can support you, how you can support yourself. We know that crowds are effecting you, that people staring and talking about you is making you paranoid and scared. And then once we know how to support you... you grow from this. You find yourself again. You don't forget it happened, but you don't let it control you."
Shiho looked at Ren, looking around her in this 'empty' cafe... and he was right. She was getting paranoid. School wasn't helping... and she didn't know who else to turn to.
"Luckily we also know something that helps you." Ren added, tapping his glasses that she was wearing
Shiho stifled a chuckle, feeling a little happier since wearing these... though embarrassed since she thought she looked dorky wearing them.
"No you don't." Ren smiled "You look cute."
"Meep!" Shiho squeaked "I... I said that aloud?!"
"Yep." Ren laughed
Shiho covered her face out of embarrassment, feeling like a fool for accidentally talking aloud while also being called cute by a guy friend
"Hey, it's alright. You shouldn't feel embarrassed." He answered
Steps of the customer leaving got Shiho out of her head, leaving the two alone "But with everything that's happened." Shiho whispered as she felt Ren hold her hands "I just feel I'm going to mess up."
"At what?"
"At school, the palaces." She mumbled, so that only Ren could hear "At my volleyball games... Everything."
"Shiho. Listen to me." Ren held her hands and looked at her. "You'll get your confidence back. You'll become stronger from this."
"Really? How?" she asked, clearly looking defeated
"By asking your friends. By asking for their help." Ren explained "You said you don't want it to define you... Then don't let it. Be the volleyball super star we all know you are."
She nodded, pushing the glasses on her nose gently as she tried to rub her eyes from tearing up.
Ren felt his heart shine, feeling closer to Shiho now
Lust, Rank 3
"Ren. Thank you." she nodded, taking his glasses off
"You're welcome." He responded, taking his glasses back.
"I should head back home." Shiho answered. "Thank you for having me, Sir." She bowed to Sojiro and left.
"Pour girl." Sojiro sighed "... Just don't lead her along kid."
"The thought never crossed my mind." Ren answered honestly. "I'd never lead her along."
"Well a wounded girl like that, she's going to get attached. So just make sure if you aren't interested, or don't mean it like that, you're gentle and let her know sooner than later." Sojiro explained softly
Ren sighed heavily and nodded, seeing the wisdom in his words "Yeah. I'll be careful." he nodded
"Good." He responded. "... You owe me 800 yen for the coffee, by the way."
"Yes boss." Ren laughed softly
*Time Skip*
Ren sighed, it was the weekend and he was heading to the fake Velvet Room 'I'm not looking forward to this.' He thought in annoyance as he entered. In just a few moments he was in the prison garb he knew 'This again.' He thought as he looked down at himself.
"Welcome back, inmate." Caroline whispered as she saw Ren.
"Hello." he nodded as his soul glowed, a Persona appearing behind him
"Ah, I see your bonds with your friends have grown since we last talked." Justine commented as the twins saw that behind him was the Persona they had requested to see
"And you've brought us the Persona we required." Caroline smiled
"As per your instructions." Ren nodded
"Good. Your rehabilitation is going well." Justine nodded as she looked at her clipboard
"Thanks, I appreciate it." Ren smirked.
"You know, if you think this is easy, let's see if you can make this Persona." Justine commented
"Don't you guys want to get out of here?" Ren asked after hearing the next Persona he had to get
"Excuse you?" Justine asked in shock.
"What do you mean?" Caroline followed up in a whisper
"Well... There is a whole world out there. Don't you want to see what you are saving?" Ren suggested
"I-I suppose." Caroline frowned and whispered
"It is an... Intriguing." Justine nodded
"You want to visit that world?" Caroline asked in awe.
"Do you not?"
"It's not that we don't, it's just... we can't." Justine answered
"Says who?" Ren smiled "You're always waiting outside the door I enter through. And you should learn more about the humans you protect, right?"
"I. I suppose we could." Caroline pondered gently.
"Show us what humans consider entertainment, inmate!" Justine ordered lightly
"Right." Ren nodded
*time skip*
"What... Is this?" the twins asked, looking up at Big Bang Burger
"This. Is 'Big Bang Burger'. A fast-food restaurant and probably one of the most popular places in Tokyo." Ren answered
"A good place... Which is part of space?" Caroline asked
"Yeah, the tagline's a bit weird, but the food is... passable." Ren answered. "Allow me."
The two nodded, following him inside
The three approached the counter as they saw the crowd inside. It wasn't crowded, but it wasn't empty either. "Welcome to Big Bang Burger. How may I help you?"
"Hi. A table, please? For three?" Ren offered
"Of course, we've got a booth right there." The receptionist answered, pointing to the window booth.
"Thanks." Ren nodded. The girls sat next to each other on the back of the booth
"What would you like to order?" The cashier asked.
"Can you give us five minutes, please?" Ren responded
"Oh, of course. Sorry." The woman responded
"What are these things?" Caroline asked, reading the menu
"Burgers, fries, nuggets, it's all on me. Don't worry." Ren explained, pointing to different choices.
"Congratulations sir." the waitress suddenly said "You are our 1,000,000th customer of the week, meaning you can undergo the Big Bang Challenge for free!"
"'Big'. 'Bang'. 'Challenge'?" Both Caroline and Justine asked together... to which Ren looked up, almost with an intense hunger in his eyes... and slight fear.
"Gimme." he said eagerly before he coughed "Sorry. I mean, yes please."
"One Challenge and what would you two like?" The waitress asked
"Er..." the two blinked
"I think they need some time. How about some colas for them for now? And can I have a jumbo cola as well please?" Ren asked
"Yes, sir. You're going to need it." The waitress answered. "One Challenge!" She called out to the cooks as she walked away
"What is this challenge the woman speaks of?" Justine asked in monotone curiosity
"It's where someone has to eat an entire burger within an hour." Ren answered.
Caroline looked around, seeing the small burgers that other people had. "I do not think it would take an hour to eat something like that."
"The challenge burgers are a bit bigger than those." he quipped
"How much bigger?" Justine asked
"Here we go, two regular colas and one jumbo cola." The waitress came over holding the three drinks... and saw how large Ren's drink was. Dwarfing the twin's drinks.
"That's... A big cup!" Justine gulped
"Wow~" Caroline said with her eye sparkling lightly
"Yep. And this is the only thing I can do to manage it." Ren smirked before the twins gasped once more, seeing the waitress returned carrying... A monster!
The people looked on in awe, seeing Ren being given this massive three-tiered burger, tomatoes, lettuce and onions between each slab of one-inch thick meat and thin flat buns between it all.
"Here it is, the lowest level of the Big Bang Burger challenge! The Comet Burger!" the waitress said dramatically "You have one hour, challenger! You may." She continued, turning an egg-timer to one hour. "BEGIN!" and right away Ren grabbed the burger and started eating away
Both Caroline and Justine looked in shock and awe, almost frozen at the frenzy Ren was in; gnawing, tearing, biting, devouring. Centimetre by centimetre. Inch by inch. Ticking away from seconds into minutes. Minutes turn to tens of minutes. But Ren would not relent.
"... Go inmate!" Caroline suddenly called as she broke out of her shock "No inmate of ours can be defeated by something like this! Eat eat eat! You can do it!"
"Whoa, Caroline." Justine gasped in shock at her outburst before she decided to join in "Go! Go! You can do it inmate! Prove yourself!"
Ren was about two thirds in the burger. He was struggling. The meat, combined with the salad and bread was weighing heavy on his stomach. Luckily, he didn't have to eat the fries; his mind was focussed on the burger itself.
"Twenty minutes left." The waitress called out, looking at the timer.
"Use the drink, inmate! The drink!" Justine called
GULP!
GULP!
GULP!
"GAH!" Ren gasped as he took three massive gulps of his drink, then turning to the burger once again. It defiantly helped, cleansing his pallet as well as stopping himself from getting overwhelmed by how dry too much meat can be
Minutes passed. But it wasn't long before.
BRRRRRRRING!
"Times up!" The waitress called out "And the challenge... Is complete!"
Caroline and Justine cheered, clapping lightly, as Ren lay limp on the table
"Burp! 'Scuse me." Ren apologised.
In his bag, Morgana was awakened by the celebrations "Huh? What's happening?" he squeaked as he was awoken
"Huh?" Both Caroline and Justine looked at the bag and saw Morgana inside.
"... Going back to sleep." he said simply
"A. Talking cat?" Caroline whispered
"Kinda cute though." Justine followed up.
They both decided to ignore it, the waitress having finally finished her speal about Ren's victory in the challenge "And have you two decided what you want yet?" she asked
"I want the same as he had!" Caroline called dramatically
"I'm afraid that is too much for girls your age." the waitress said playfully, thinking the two before her where kids "I recommend the Junior Space Explorer meals. They come with a burger, fries, drinks, an after dinner ice cream and a toy."
"What do you mean 'our age'?" Justine glared
"That's fine." Caroline answered, thinking that it was a lot better.
The waitress nodded and retreated, as Ren had finally overcame the overstuffed feeling
"Whoa, your stomach must be deep." Caroline admitted
"You must have some 'Guts', Inmate." Justine followed up.
"As well as the 'knowledge' to pace yourself, the 'proficiency' to manage yourself and a good amount of 'luck'."
Ren chuckled, feeling the effects of the burger challenge 'increase his stats', which he was welcoming.
That was when the waitress returned. "Here you are. Please enjoy." The waitress spoke kindly, passing over two trays of the 'Junior Space Explorer' meals. Each tray had a small cup, a small burger, a small portion of fries, another cup of cola and a small toy wrapped in a plastic bag
"This is it?" Caroline asked as she held the burger
"These are fries?" Justine asked, feeling a little insulted as she put one of the fries into her mouth... before her eyes widened at the salty goodness that was a French fry and the more calm sister started shovelling them into her face "Hmm~." She hummed gently as she ate more fries
"... Justine?" Caroline blinked before she cautiously bit into the burger. Her eyes sparkled as she bit into it, enjoying the taste and hummed happily "Yum!" she smiled and started eating away
Ren sweat dropped lightly, getting to work as he sipped up the rest of his drink 'Guess 'Igor' doesn't give them anything good to eat.' Ren thought '... Do they need to eat?' As he sipped his drink, he looked on at the cheery cheeked twins who just ate their meals, ignoring the toys for now.
*time skip*
"Thank you for 'taking us out', Inmate." Justine spoke in her normal, almost uncaring, kuudare fashion while holding the space ship toy from her meal
"Hey, I'm glad you've had a good time." Ren answered smoothly as he was smiling at Justine's amazement with the toy
"Th-thank you, Inmate." Caroline mumbled.
"I believe we understand human leisure time and entertainment a bit better now."
Ren smiled as he heard that, hearing the faint words in his ears and heart.
Strength: Rank 3
"We won't be going easy in you!" Caroline yelled dramatically a moment later
"I wouldn't think of it any other way." Ren smiled as he saw them leave. He smiled, happy he was doing it. Regaining the bonds he had lost
*time skip*
The students were arriving towards the school, walking into their home-rooms, but it wasn't long before the speakers spoke up.
BING BONG!
"All students and teachers please report to the gymnasium, the Principal has something to inform you all with." The news prompter spoke and of course such a statement confused everyone. Though, they all had to head down. There was no choice in the matter. If it wasn't 'willingly', then the prefects or teachers would go get them.
They all piled into the gym, quickly getting into rows
"What's going on? What's the principal doing?" Were some of the people's whisperings. Until the principal walked up and cleared his throat as he began to speak.
"Everyone!" the man called
"Here we go." Ryuji spoke as he stood next to Ren.
"Ahem. Last week, we averted a tragedy. A student almost committed a terrible thing." Principal Kobayakawa spoke as he looked upon the students.
BOOM!
The doors near the back suddenly slammed open. And standing there... Was Kamoshida
