AguynamedJazz: 'Now Count Up Your Sins'. It is a Double reference.
Iron Mario: If you thought that was bad...
Mark The Gamer of Grima: Well, we answer this.
warrior of six blades: Character Growth is awesome!
Xerzo LotCN: It is called a reference.
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Ah, that terrible weapon
Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:
Mister Scamandros: Of course, I saw a connection there.
UnsanMusho: Not really, it wasn't established much in the anime or game, so...no.
Shooting Star Dragon 3000: Yep, we're not stopping any time soon.
Bisaster: Thanks very much, we try our best.
InsaneMakaioshin: We have plans for future chapters.
kurokitsune028: Glad you've caught up and enjoying this series.
AguynamedJazz: It was a Kamen Rider W reference.
Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.
Co-written by GhostKaiser23
AUTHOR'S NOTE
And here is the newest chapter! Sorry for it being a bit late. Been a bit busy
Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 12: Preparing The Grand Museum Heist
"Yusuke is a Persona user too?" Skull gasped.
"Wh-What the hell?" Madarame's Shadow panicked in shock.
"You. You're going to pay, for everything!" Yusuke pointed at Madarame.
"Grr...Get him! Get them all!" Madarame ordered as his guards who transformed into copper-green skinned, copper-plates embedded into his skin, black gloves, black leather apron and a full copper mask with a single eye-hole with a grate, all while standing on one copper shoed foot with a blacksmith's tools in his hands. And secondly, there were four black-winged humanoids with Shinto robes and a white mask with a pointed protruding nose.
"Joker. What're we gonna do?" Panther asked
"What we always do." Joker answered. "Mona, Dove. Come on."
"Wait, am I on the sidelines?" Skull asked
"Trust me." Joker responded
"We do." Panther nodded, flinching softly as she was left out as well
"What's the plan, Joker?" Dove asked as she readied her broadsword.
"Dove, take out the Tengu. F-Yusuke, take out the giant." Joker almost slipped up again, excited to have another team member back.
"How do I do that?" Yusuke asked
"RARGH!" The giant humanoid Shadow roared and hopped at them with his blacksmith hammer.
"Shoot ice at him!" Joker responded as they dodged.
"Cersei! KOUGA!" Dove called out, shooting a Bless attack at the Tengu.
"Goemon! BUFU!" Yusuke called out, ripping off his mask to summon his Persona. There was a massive blast of cold and light, hitting the two Shadows hard. Within a flash, one of the Tengus were taken out as the giant was knocked down. "This strength. It's incredible!" Yusuke commented as he clenched his hand.
"What next, Leader?" Mona smiled
"Can't use an 'All Out' until the others are gone or downed." He responded.
CLICK!
"Light 'em up!" He ordered, shooting at the Tengu.
BANG!
BANG!
BANG!
BANG!
BANG!
The Tengu were taken out and/or down, leaving only the Phantom Thieves to go all out. "Yusuke, follow our lead!" Joker called out
"Right!"
The group leapt into action and pummelled the Shadow, punching and kicking it until Yusuke slowly rose to his feet, giving off a stylish simple pose. "The finale."
SPLURT!
The Shadow was destroyed as the words 'It was fun while it lasted, goodbye.' appeared behind them with the image of a dragon by its side.
"Wow!" Skull and Panther blinked
Madarame's Shadow backed up in fear as he saw this, he had to flee "NO!"
"Wait! Ah!" Yusuke called out before dropping to a knee, exhausted.
"Easy, Fox. We got you." Joker spoke.
"Thank you." Yusuke answered, being propped up by Joker and then by Skull.
"Yeah, don't worry." He responded
The group helped him up, hurrying towards the reception area 'Did... Did he just call me/Yusuke 'Fox'?' The group aside from Joker thought as they escaped while resting the new member of the group onto the coach in the reception area
"Ah!" Yusuke grunted as he rested
"We have to get out of here. I don't think Yusuke can handle this place yet." Mona talked to Joker.
"I know." He sighed heavily.
"Ms Ann. I'm sorry." Yusuke apologised.
"What for?" She responded
"I asked you to be my model... and now we are in trouble with the police. It's my fault." Yusuke apologised and explained.
"We've not lost yet. We have time before the footage is sent to them. And time so we can change Madarame's mind." Joker answered
"Are you serious? How'd you know that?" Skull asked
"Because of the exhibit." Ren said simply
Dove snapped her fingers and nodded, knowing what he meant. "Then we've got about a week?" She asked
"Exactly." He nodded. "And then... we'll strike with another message."
...
"What are you talking about?" Skull asked
"What? Don't you remember what we did with Kamoshida?" Joker asked
"We have to get to his treasure room and find Madarame's treasure. It's the only way to change him." Mona added
"No, I mean what about the exhibit? I don't get what you mean." Skull responded
"He won't want to arrest us while his exhibition is going on. Bad PR, especially with Yusuke being his pupil. He will wait until it's all finished and then do a surprise attack." Joker explained
"You... Have you done this before?" Yusuke asked
"Something like that." Panther answered
"Also, he has ego and cares about money. Easy to read." Joker added
...
"Oh! I get it now." Skull nodded
"Good, then we have our time window." Mona answered
"... Is that cat talking?" Yusuke just now realised what Mona was now.
"You only noticed that now?" Skull laughed
...
"What are these cloths?" he asked casually
"They're your Phantom Thief clothes. How your rebellious emotions and self feel." Dove answered
"Fascinating."
"I have to ask... Why did you call Yusuke 'Fox'?" Dove asked
"His costume and mask. It looks like a fox." Ren didn't lie, but didn't tell the whole truth "Code name situation, couldn't help myself."
"'Fox'. Heh. It is a good codename. After all, I doubt I could be called anything else with this attached to me." Yusuke joked and showed off his tail.
"Plus the mask." Panther added, cocking her hips
"Plus the mask." He nodded. "What's that in your hand?"
"Oh, this? Something we ripped out of this place. Worth a few Yen when we sell it." Skull answered
"We can sell things from in here?" Yusuke asked
"Certain things. But not like the massive paintings we saw on the way here." Joker responded
"Oh yes... those paintings." he nodded, getting a bit depressed
"Did you know them?" Panther asked
"Somewhat. I knew my Mas-Madarame had other pupils... but I didn't know he had them all on 'pedestals'." He answered
"We're going to get justice for them, Fox. I promise you that." Joker answered
*time skip*
"Ah~, thank you." Yusuke sighed in relief, having gotten some food into his belly and had a cup of coffee as well.
"You really don't eat enough." Ren commented "Way too skinny."
"I... Do tend to work long hours on my paintings." Yusuke admitted. "Are you sure that-"
"Yusuke, my treat. Okay?" Ren responded, putting money in the register for the curry and coffee.
"Thank you."
"No problem. Do you have a place to stay? I'm sure Sojiro can help put you up until you find a place." Ren asked.
"I... am not sure." Yusuke admitted
"Well, I'm alright having you here. Morgana and I would like the company." Ren reassured him. "As long as you keep the painting to a minimum for a little while."
"I guess." the blue haired figure nodded
"Good." Ren nodded. "Though it won't be forever."
"I understand. My own space would be good." He nodded
"I'll go set the spare bed up. Come up when you're ready and I'll sort the dishes later." Ren responded
"Of course." Yusuke nodded and sat in the chair.
As Ren headed up, he saw Morgana waiting for him. "So? Is he gonna be okay?"
"I think so. But we've got to prepare and make sure Yusuke can handle the strain." Ren answered
Morgana nodded slowly. "... You slipped up. You said Fox's name." he chastised
"I know. But after everything...I know what happened. Things like that stick with you." Ren explained.
Morgana sighed. Even if he didn't remember much outside of Ren, Ren had told him a few rough aspects of the future "I guess that makes sense. But you've got to be more mindful."
"I know, Morgana. I know." He nodded as he entered the empty Leblanc, his phone buzzing "... Hello Ms Baba." he commented
"I guess you know it's me." A distorted voice asked
"Yeah, I know it's you." He nodded. He held the phone to his ear, sitting down "I'd wondered when you'd contact me again."
"This new guy; 'Yusuke' you called him. What's his deal?" Alibaba responded
"Madarame's student." he responded "Thanks for the research by the way. It helped Yusuke... Process everything."
"Of course. Any time. But you're going to tell me how you know this future stuff, right?" Alibaba asked
...
"What?! You know?!" Ren gasped in horror
"It seems obvious, the way you act around people, how you know things. How open you were with that maid that came. It was either 'you're psychic', which is a plausible impossibility, or you have knowledge of the future." Alibaba answered. "Why else would you ask me about something that was specifically driven to one person?"
"I-"
"Also you've mentioned stuff like 'past' and 'future' in weird places in your sentences as well as a lot of small stuff I've observed from you in the house and on your phone."
...
"Right. I got so use to you doing that I forgot to be careful incase you hacked it again." Ren groaned weakly
"There you go again. 'Again'. You're familiar with my work." Alibaba responded "It only proves my theory. You are from the future."
"What if I am?" he asked before he added "Medjed?"
Silence.
Immediate silence from the other side.
"... You're an enigma, Ren Amamiya. A good person... but an enigma. And I don't really trust good people." Alibaba answered "How... does stealing a heart work?"
"You don't ever have to hide things from me Futaba. I know what is going on." he assured as he sat down "But yes, stealing a heart works. Keep your eyes on the news about Madarame for proof, to see I am not playing. And once you have that proof... you need to trust me."
Silence again.
Futaba was shocked. Did she give anything up? Did she slip up with her name? "Okay."
BEEEEEEEEE...
Dial tone.
She had hung up.
"Don't worry Futaba." Ren said aloud, knowing she was still listening "I'm here for you... I'll help. And no, I don't understand how I traveled back in time and I wouldn't be able to do so again."
Morgana stretched out on the bed and yawned. "I'm headed off to bed, Ren. Don't forget Yusuke's."
"Yeah, I know." He nodded and pulled out a mat. However he was not going to stay here much longer. That conversation with Futaba had given him an idea
"Ren, were you talking to someone on the phone?" Yusuke asked as he approached the stairs.
"Yeah, it's no big deal." Ren assured
"I see, I'm sorry if I intruded." He responded. "Oh, this is nice." He looked around the room.
"It's home." Ren smiled
"Thank you for having me here." Yusuke bowed and got ready for bed.
"Any time."
*In the Velvet Room*
"Ah, Trickster." Igor smiled as Joker appeared
"Igor. Good to see you." Ren spoke as he saw them. "Lavenza, lovely to see you again."
"Always lovely, my Trickster." she giggled
"It seems you've changed things a little more, Trickster. Madarame's house and his secrets... and including 'Oracle', I believed you called her?" Igor asked
"Yeah."
"Changing things again. It's getting harder now, isn't it?" Igor asked
"Yeah, it is. Especially this one hurts a bit more than some of the others." Ren answered
"What do you mean?" Lavenza asked
"Yusuke's mother. She was stolen from him, losing the person who loved you." Ren answered, his fists getting tighter. "Betrayed by those who cared for you. It...It hurt too close to home." As he explained, he recalled the betrayal of his own parents.
Lavenza frowned and hugged him
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to-"
"It's quite alright, Ren. I understand." Igor nodded respectfully.
"Hmm." Lavenza nodded and hugged him a little tighter making Ren chuckle
"So. Why did you visit us?" Igor added
"I just... I wanted to see you two." Ren answered. "I feel like I need your advice and help... and I missed Lavenza."
"Awww."
"Should I leave you two alone then?" Igor joked.
"No, I need advice first." Ren shook his head lightly
"Of course, my boy. What do you need?" Igor asked, folding his hands together and looked at Ren.
"Junya Kaneshiro."
"Ah~, the gluttonous little fly. What do you need my boy?" Igor smiled, seeing Ren's initiative.
*Time Skip*
"Hnn... That lesson was tough." Ann stretched gently as she and Ren left the lesson.
"I know." He nodded.
"So you want to hang out?" he asked
"That would be nice. But won't we be late in stopping Madarame?" She asked
"I'm sure we can take one day to enjoy ourselves." Ren responded
"We have a week before we need to steal it. We have time."
"Right. That makes me a little better." Ann answered as the two left for the stores at the train station before her phone rang "Sorry." Ann apologised. "I've got to take this."
"I understand." he nodded
"Hello?" Ann answered the phone and listened to who was on the other end.
Red put his hands in his pockets, smiling
"Yes, yes... I-I don't-. Yes, okay." She frowned
"Whats wrong?" Ren asked as she ended the call
"My co-worker has dropped out of shooting and they've asked me to fill in for her." Ann explained
"Ah, no worries, let's go." Ren nodded
"Are you sure? It might be boring for you." Ann answered
"I'm sure. It's not the worst thing in the world." Ren nodded "Plus it'd be interesting seeing your way of life."
"Oh, right." Ann blushed as she heard that. "Okay, I'll show you where we're shooting." She lead the way and showed him. "It's up in Tokyo."
"Okay." he nodded as they board the train
The two rode together in the tightly packed train, the two pressed up against each other though Ren tried to think of it as another day, Ann was getting a little flustered 'He's so attractive... oh wow, the muscles.' she thought, bumping into him slightly every now and again
"Sorry, the train's packed." He apologised, though he held her close so that she wouldn't get knocked around as much.
"It's fine." she smiled, wishing he'd wrap his arms around her waist. What, she was a teenage girl with hormones and he was attractive!
Next stop, Tokyo. Tokyo, next stop.
"That's us." Ren spoke up
*time skip*
"Yes, that's it. Wonderful. Wonderful." The photographer spoke as he took pictures of Ann and her fellow model.
Ren was smiling proudly as he looked at them. Ann was truley, honestly, beautiful
The other girl was nice too, beautiful in her own right...but something in Ren's mind was niggling at him. Something 'off' about her. He couldn't remember but he felt there was something about her
'Urgh...What was it?' He thought and rubbed his head. Oh well, it probably wasn't they big of a deal
"Wonderful, take five girls." The director spoke and let the two chat as Ren got up to congratulate Ann.
"You where great." he praised
"Thanks." Both Ann and her friend answered.
"Oh, sorry, I was talking to Ann, Ms..." Ren commented
"I'm Mika. Nice to meet you." She smiled with a cute tone.
"You to." Ren nodded
"Oh, I was just about to introduce you." Ann spoke respectfully with a smile.
"Is he your boyfriend?" Mika smiled
"'M-My boy-'?" Ann panicked
"I'm her friend who happens to be a guy." Ren answered.
"Oh? Really, just friends?"
"Well. It's a growing thing right now." Ren explained
"Wha-" Ann blushed
"Oh? You and Ann are together then?" Mika asked
"Well, it's not official. We just hang out." Ren answered
"Wa-I-I-I-I-I-" Ann stuttered, her cheeks a massive blushing red mess
"Ooh~, is that right?" Mika teased. "Careful. I might just take you for myself."
...
Yeah that caused Ann's brain to restart as she glared at Mika
"Mika. That isn't funny."
"What? It's not against the rules to have a friend who's a boy is it?" She asked. Ann just frowned and hugged Ren's arm protectively, pushing it between her breasts
'Oh, okay.' He thought in shock, feeling her breasts around his arm 'Those really do feel nice.'
"Are you two doing alright?" The director asked
"Fine!" Mika called casually "Ann was just getting a bit hot and heavy with her boyfriend, I think she's getting bored!"
"'Boyfriend'? Bored? Really?" The director asked with a raised eyebrow.
"N-Now wait a minute." Ann defended
"Maybe you should head home Ann, we're nearly done." he shrugged "Sorry, we didn't know you had plans."
"I. Wha-?" Ann asked
"Oh~. Sorry." Mika frowned and teased
"But hey, you get to hang out now."
Ann frowned and felt frustrated, hugging her arms around Ren's, while accidentally pinching his muscles in anger.
Ren just looked between them, something in his brain clicking 'Wait... she-? Did she sabotage this?' Ren thought hard as he remembered her and everything that happened 'She did. She caused Ann to lose this job. All those other model's jobs.' His eyes widened a bit, feeling guilty 'Oh god. Why didn't I see this coming?' He thought
"Later~" she waved
"Well come on Mika, let's go!" the director called
"Later~" she waved as the group walked away
"I. But...she." Ann frowned, realising she had lost.
"Ann. Let's go." Ren sighed heavily.
"GRRR!" Ann hissed in anger as the two walked away "I can't believe this! She just walked over me!"
"Yeah, I-"
"She is so cool!" Ann snapped
...
What had she said?
...
"Wait, what? 'Cool'?" Ren double took in confusion. "She was acting like a bitch."
"Well yeah, but she has the passion for modeling and tricked me out of the photos hoot. She is real clever." Ann responded
Ren rubbed the back of his neck and nodded. "I guess so." He chuckled a bit and smiled "You're amazing Ann."
"Are you serious?" She asked
"Of course; I'm not joking." Ren nodded
Ann blushed softly and smiled
"Come on, let's get something to drink." He offered, holding her hand.
"Sure!" she squeaked
Lovers: Rank 4
Ren smiled as he felt the connection deepen with Ann, knowing that it was going to get better from now. They went off to Big Bang Burger, to get some drinks "You feeling better?" Ren asked as they sat down.
"Yeah." she smiled softly, nodding "I guess Mika's just smarter than me."
"No, you are just trusting. You weren't expecting it." he encouraged
"So, should I pretend to be a conniving bitch and distant?" Ann joked
"No." he said seriously, unconsciously grasping her hand "You're great as you are."
Ann didn't know what to say. Ren seemed to know just what to say to her... she did, however, blush at the touching of hands
Ren blinked and then looked at his hands, but he didn't mind, looking back at her eyes with a smile.
"You're a good fr-a good person, Ren." She whispered
"Just a friend?" he couldn't help but tease
"I. Of course. I mean. You are more than that." She blushed
"Really?" Ren asked in shock
"Yeah. I. Well... It-it's nothing." She mumbled, covering her cheeks.
"What?" he urged soft;y, unable to help himself
"I. I might... might have a... teeny, tiny... crush on you." She blushed
"Wait... What?" he blinked
"This is embarrassing for me to say; okay?" She responded. "But. Yeah. We-I, have a crush on you."
...
"Wow..."
"Yeah. I-I know you might be shocked. But...it's true." She answered
"I feel the same." he admitted, causing her head to shoot up while her eyes went wide
"You do?" Ann asked in shock.
"Of course. I might be a bit dense for not noticing your feelings but, my feelings for you are real." He reassured her. He tried to hide how deep those feelings where, he had them for a very long time after all, but they where there
The two remained there for a little while, Ann wanting to go further... but she was afraid. "I. Thank you, for today."
"Yeah." he nodded... And kissed her
Ann's eyes widened before they fluttered shut, happily accepting it and held his hand hands where linked softly, as they mumbled happily against each others lips
Lovers: Rank 5
'Hmm~!' She squeaked happily. They broke their kiss, the two staring into each others eyes
"See you tomorrow?" he smiled
"Y-Yeah. See you tomorrow." She blushed and nodded, getting up and walked away.
Ren grinned, a slight skip in his step
*at Leblanc *
"BWAAAAH! Lady A-A-Ann!" Morgana cried as he heard what Ren had done.
"I'm sorry buddy." Ren flinched guiltily, rubbing Morgana's head softly
Morgana wept into the quilt as Ren petted his head. "I wish I could've been braver for her!"
"You have a crush on her. I'm sorry." Ren apologised.
SNIFF.
"I. I'll be fine. I'll be fine." Morgana sniffed, wiping his tears away. "I'm glad she has you."
"I am really sorry buddy." Ren repeated
Morgana nodded and sniffed once more. "... Think Lady Ann will still pet me?" He asked gently.
"I think so." He nodded
"We. ahem We need to get ready for Madarame's Palace. I know it's not for a few days but...We gotta be careful." He cleared his throat and responded
"I know. I know." Ren smiled softly "And hey, I'm sure you will find someone else."
"Yeah. Here's hoping." Morgana nodded and crossed his paws... which looked cute.
Ren chuckled, rubbing Morgana's head as he called his maid/teacher once again
"Again?" Morgana asked
"What? I get money from my jobs." Ren answered "Besides, I want to help her."
"I guess that makes sense... Want me to hide?" Morgana asked
"Your choice." Ren replied honestly
"I didn't see your teacher in the costume so... Can I watch?" He asked
"Sure." He nodded with a laugh
*time skip*
"Hello Master." the maid-teacher curtsied
"Hi, 'Becky'." He smiled gently, just joking in his response.
"Oh~, what a darling little kitty." She cooed gently, stroking Morgana's head.
Morgan grinned and started purring up a storm
"Awe~, I think he likes me." She smiled, letting Morgana nuzzle her.
"Yeah, he does." Ren chuckled "He's a real ladies man."
"Awe~, I bet he does." 'Becky' cooed.
"Thank you, Ren!" Morgana mewed.
"He's got a lovely meow." She added making Ren laugh softly "What would you like me to do, Sir?" Ms Kawakami asked as she cradled Morgana.
"Clean my room? I've been busy with my part-time jobs." Ren asked politely.
"Of course, Master." She smiled and nodded, picking up a broom, beginning to work.
"Ah~, that was nice." Morgana smiled happily, still riding the fussing high he just had.
He smiled, curling up to sleep. As Ren saw this, he turned to Ms Kawakami, seeing her work for 5000 yen per call. He couldn't remember why she was doing this. But it was definitely something bad that happened. He remembered it involved a past student and their parents but he hadn't managed to get to the bottom of it before he left "I have to ask. Why're you doing this? This housekeeping job." Ren asked politely.
"Huh?"
"Because you asked me too." She responded
"I mean, why did you join 'Victoria Services' in the first place." Ren clarified. "I'm just asking... 'why?'"
"It's... a personal thing, Mr Amamiya." She answered.
"Well, you know my story." Ren responded.
"That's true... but you shouldn't pry into others." She rebutted.
"I want to help." Ren quickly answered.
"... It's. To help my sister." Ms Kawakami hesitated. "She's sick and... we need the money. That's why I do this all the time. Walking dogs, cleaning windows. Sweeping floors. It's all for her."
"Wow... you are amazing." Ren blinked
"I'm some things, Mr Amamiya... 'amazing' isn't one I'd choose." She regretfully responded. "Every day I have to leave my teaching job to come do this one. I barely have time for myself."
"Which is why you're exhausted each day." Ren sighed, rubbing the back of his head. But something felt... off about what she said
Something... hesitant.
"Yeah. I just... I need the money to pay o-pay for my sister." Ms Kawakami sighed, feeling her eyes slowly close.
'She hesitated, it's not her sister.' He thought. 'I can't pry further.' After all, he had to trust her. He knew she was a good person, she was lying for a good reason "Well, I'm glad you're doing it for a good cause." Ren answered, letting her continue. "If you want to rest, you can."
"You sure?" she asked as she kicked her shoes off and walked over to his bed... And then she fell onto it and fell asleep, snoring
"Whoa. Out like a light." Morgana whispered, leaping to the crafting table.
"Yeah, but she's a good person. And I know what it's like to be forced to work till you drop." Ren frowned, thinking back to his previous life... and forced to clean, cook, wash, even replace all the things in the house he was forced to rent. The house he was raised in... the one his parents owned. He felt his heart shine as he looked down at her. He wouldn't let her go through the pain and torment he endured... and he would give her a happier ending.
Temperance: Rank 2
*time skip*
"Hey, is it just me, or does Ms Kawakami look a little happier?" Ann asked Ren as they left the classroom.
"Does she?" he asked innocently
"I just noticed her smiling a little. That's all." Ann answered.
"Oh. That's good." He responded, the two walking to find their friends while his hand slipped down to grasp hers
"Hmm!" She squeaked gently as not to arouse suspicion...but it did arouse her.
"You okay?" he asked her
"Yes. I'm fine." She nodded shortly and quickly as they walked away together... and pulled Ren into a dark corner
"Whoa!" He gasped. "Ann?"
"Hey." she smiled with a blush, pushing against him softly
"Oh. Okay." He blushed gently, hugging her close, trying not to let anyone see the pair of them. He... Thought they where a couple now. He did think they where. And it felt... It felt like he always thought it would. Ren blinked as he saw Ann closing her eyes 'Oh, our first kiss.' He thought to himself... and gently kissed her on the lips. He held her sides softly, kissing her gently
'Hmm~!' She squeaked happily, feeling his lips on hers.
It was a quick one, one which only lasted a few moments, but it meant so much to them as they broke the kiss
"Like that, Panther?" he smiled charmingly
"Yes." She blushed and nodded, looking into his eyes "My Joker." she smiled softly
Ren chuckled as he heard that. "My Panther." He repeated that.
"... Try not to stare when I'm wearing that latex suit." she blushed and pushed her face into his chest, feeling more embarrassed about her Phantom Thief costume all of a sudden
"I'll do my best." He answered, holding her gently "But you do look beautiful in it."
"Hush." She blushed as she patted his chest.
"... I guess you can look. If, if its just you." she muttered and pushed her face into his chest "Gosh, why am I so embarrassed?"
"First boyfriend?" Ren thought and tried to reassure her. "You're my first girlfriend as well."
"Really?" she asked in shock
"Yeah. I didn't find any relationships when I was in prison." He quipped making her giggle, knowing he was exaggerating
"What's going on here?" the ever professional Makoto said suddenly
"Ah! N-Niishima!" Ann double-took and brushed herself off.
'Queen.' Ren thought as he saw her. "We're just hanging out. Is that wrong?"
"In a closed dark place?" she asked with a raised eyebrow, her hands on her hips "It looks like you two where potentially doing something you shouldn't at school. With how... close you currently are."
"Sorry, we'll keep it to ourselves." Ren apologised.
"You're just jealous, Niishima." Ann glared as she held onto Ren's arm "Since no one wants an enabler like you as a girlfriend."
"'An en-'? I am not an enabler!" She restrained herself.
"Kamoshida." Was all Ann said, having said her piece last time they spoke, before she dragged Ren away and pushed Makoto aside
Makoto was pushed to the side, gripping her hand in anger as she leaned on the wall...she seemed...frustrated with herself. Angry. Holding back her emotions.
Like she was supposed to
'D-Damn you.' She thought to herself.
"That was kind of mean, Ann. I can see your point but...That was harsh." Ren commented
"It was her job to protect people like Shiho." she hissed weakly "But she didn't. All she does is kiss the teachers asses. She HAD to know what was going on and did NOTHING."
Drip
Drip
"Come here." Ren sighed and pulled her into a hug, rubbing her back as she cried "It's okay, Ann. It's alright." Ren whispered, reassuring her "I promise."
"Hey, guys...?" Ryuji waved before he slowly stopped his wave.
"Hey." Ren waved
"Is everything okay?" Shiho asked as the two saw them.
"We saw Niishima." Ren explained, not liking using Makoto's last name
"Ah...Yeah. I getcha." Ryuji answered. "She's...pretty bad." making Ren flinch
"Can we not talk bad about her?" Shiho asked. "At least while we're in school."
"Right."
The four grabbed their things and headed out to their 'secret place'. "You called Yusuke?" Ryuji asked
"Um, not yet. Hang on." Ann answered as Shiho texted him as they left the school
"Hmm, I've got to wonder, should we head towards Mementos?" Ryuji asked
"Ryuji, hush!" Shiho shushed him.
"What, no one understands what we are talking about." he waved off
"Yeah, but... Can't be too careful." She answered.
"Ah! Is school over?" Morgana asked, poking his head out of Ren's bag.
"Yeah buddy." Ren smiled
"Thank god. I thought Mr Bull-Head was going to throw another chalk at you." Morgana commented
Snort
"'Mr Bull-Head'?" Ryuji laughed
"That's a good one." Ann agreed as they arrived at the train station
"Sorry that I'm late. My classes went on a little longer than normal." Yusuke apologised as he soon arrived.
"It's fine Yusuke." Ren nodded "Now let's go, I feel like we need to get some new gear."
"But how? I doubt many people will be willing to sell to...Us." Yusuke responded
"Don't worry. Ren knows the guys at the Airsoft place. He'll hook us up." Ryuji smirked
"Just don't freak out." he laughed
*time skip*
The group entered the Airsoft store, the store's owner, Munehisa Iwai's eyes widened as he saw the group come in. "Huh. You're back...and brought friends."
"Yeah, we're looking around for some new things." Ren answered. "But first, I've got some stuff."
"Again?" He commented
CLUNK!
"Yeah." Ren smirked
"Damn it." Iwai muttered as he began to look through the stuff. Everyone looked on curiously as Iwai began to pick things up "Plastic frames, crappy jugs. Jeez." He muttered, tallying up the money and the various items. "Did you rob crappy art and crafts store or something?"
"Nah, just stuff I found." Ren replied casually
Iwai looked at Ren with a careful eye...and then got back to tilling up the stuff.
"Ren, what about this?" Yusuke asked, pointing to a Katana that was sheathed away.
"Is that what you want?" Ren asked, making it clear to everyone. Pick out the best gear you can find
"I believe so." Yusuke answered
"Du~de! Check this beast thing!" Ryuji commented, showing a golden bat bound with three studded binds in the wall.
"Looks nice. But...that price. Yeesh. Might be out of your range, Ryuji." Ann commented
"C'mon; why'd you gotta be like that?" Ryuji groaned.
"Jeez, kid. You've got shy of under a million here." Iwai commented
...
"Hey, this one's nice!" Ryuji grinned and grabbed another one
"Let's just say that I've paid in advance for these." Ren smirked to Iwai.
"Humph." Iwai huffed gently and sat down.
"Hmmm~" Shiho hummed as she looked for anything for her grenades "Ooh, this looks cool." She commented, getting a bandolier of grenades. "What do you think?"
"Totally badass." Ryuji gave a thumbs up.
'Damn kids.' Iwai thought as he looked at them.
CLICK.
"This looks intriguing." Yusuke commented, holding an assault rifle, though it was a very good replica and wouldn't fire anything, he was still nervous about holding it.
"Oh~" Ann said with stars in her eyes, picking up a new whip
"We are grabbing stuff for student films." Ren explained casually
"Huh. Your teacher must be a real bastard to make you pay for your own things." Iwai commented. "I heard about this one guy, the kids called him 'King Moron', he was a total scum-bag."
The group chuckled softly at that remark
Ren smiled as he looked over at Ann as she looked at the whips, posing with them 'Wow. Hot.' Ren thought like a dork as he saw his girlfriend holding that.
"Don't get any ideas, kid. isn't that kind of shop." Iwai commented, looking at Ren.
"I don't know what you mean." he coughed
Iwai nodded and began to till up the purchases if they made any.
Shhn
Shiho looked at a beautiful replica sword as she held it in her hands. 'This looks good.' She smirked.
"Add it to the pile." Ren suggested while putting down a new slingshot for Morgana
"Really? Thanks." Shiho answered, putting the sword and grenade bandolier onto the counter.
"Is that all, kid?" Iwai asked as he saw the number of replica weapons they were buying.
"Hmm...What about these?" Ryuji asked, holding up a cool shirt.
'Accessories? I never bought those before.' He thought as he thought that those could come in handy...plus added armour never hurt as he nodded, letting everyone grab what they wanted
"Err, dude. Isn't this too much?" Ryuji asked, seeing how much he was getting.
"This gonna be all?" Iwai asked, looking at all the equipment and replicas.
"This is it." Ren nodded.
"Okay, taking into account of this crap you sold me. The money transfer... These clothes and accessories come to about 130,540 Yen."
"WHAT?!" the others gasped in horror
"Sure." Ren nodded and payed
"WHAT?!" they yelled again, their heads snapping from Iwai to Ren
"That could pay for my rent for so long." Yusuke whispered to himself.
"You're a good customer kid." Iwai gave a respectful nod. "Come again if you need anything else."
"Will do." he nodded
With that, the group now had their new armoured clothes and replica weapons. They were walking around with a literal arsenal.
"This is insane! We are gonna be so much more badass with this stuff!" Ryuji grinned
"Ren. Are you sure you can afford this?" Shiho asked nervously, holding his hand subtly.
"I've gotten money from my jobs, those items we pilfer and from the Shadows we defeat. It's fine." Ren smiled making Shiho blush
"Well, in any case, we're gonna be total-Wait. If we put this stuff on...will it change our outfits?" Ryuji wondered.
"We change clothes normally and our outfit remains the same. I doubt it'll change much." Ann waved off.
"That's good." Shiho nodded
"Hmm. Makes one wonder." Yusuke pondered.
"What about?" Morgana asked.
"If it's possible to change our outfits while in the Metaverse." Yusuke answered.
...
"Hmmm~" the group hummed
"Makes you think." Morgana pondered, imagining himself wearing a snazzy tuxedo while in the Metaverse.
Ren laughed, attaching a new collar around Morgana's neck
"Huh? Is this my new collar?" Morgana asked, pawing at it.
"Of course it is. I wouldn't forget our team's intelligence." Ren smiled making Morgana grin
"Wait, then what does that make each of us?" Ryuji asked
"Well, Ren's 'the Leader'. Lady Ann is 'the Beauty'. You're obviously the muscle." Morgana chuckled.
"I guess that fits." Ryuji smirked
"Then what am I?" Yusuke asked
"Hmm. Well, you're a painter. And, don't take this the wrong way Yusuke; you're the forger." Morgana answered. "You make beautiful and convincing pictures."
"I see..." he hummed
"And what about me?" Shiho asked nervously
'Crap. Shiho wasn't with us before.' Ren thought, trying to think of a title.
"You're our 'Spy'." Morgana thought. "People think you're not a threat but when you attack. Hoo-boy."
"Yep, true." Ann grinned
'Nice save.' Ren thought, thinking he'll get some nice tuna for Mona when they get back home.
"Begs the question... who else is going to join our group?" Ryuji asked
"You think more people would join?" Shiho asked
"I dunno. But look." Ryuji answered, pulling out his phone to the 'Phansite'. "We've got a few more views and people are talking about us."
"Ryuji, it's just 8.9%." Ann commented
"Better than zero." Ren joked
"Very true. But what about Madarame? Should we not continue our endeavors?"
Yusuke asked, a little nervous as their deadline was nearing closer and closer.
"Trust me, we can do it." Ren assured "Let's rest for today, and then tomorrow. Two days from now, we will get to the treasure room."
"I hope so." Ann answered.
"Hey, we've got our gear. And this guy's been working his ass off at the restaurant, the flower stand and that politician guy at the Square." Ryuji responded
"Really?!" everyone gasped
"I do a lot of work." Ren admitted, sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. "I can handle it."
"Are you sure?" his new girlfriend asked in worry
"I can. I'm not as weak or frail as I look." He responded, reassuring her.
"You don't look frail." Shiho assured
"It's all the work he's been doing with me!" Ryuji boasted
"You've been working out with Ryuji?" Yusuke asked
"Hmm. It's been great." Ren explained.
"But what about those drinks you've been getting each Sunday?" Ann commented
"A once a week treat. it doesn't break my bank." Ren answered. 'Might need to check how much I do have.' He thought. It had been a while and he'd like to treat the others if he could... They did mean a lot to him
"So... That is for the day?" Ryuji asked
"Yeah. I got a doctors appointment." Ren nodded
"Are you sick?" Shiho asked
"No, I'm fine. It's just like a check-up." Ren reassured them.
"You sure?" Ann asked
"Yeah, I'm sure. It's just routine." Ren nodded
"Alright, well...don't take too long." Shiho answered "You need your sleep after all."
"I'll probably take a nap after my check-up." Ren responded. 'I'm technically not lying after all.'
*time skip*
"Welcome back, Guinea Pig." Tae commented with a smirk, seeing him in her examination room again.
"Doctor." he beamed
"You seem happy. Something happen?" She asked as she sat down by her computer.
"Just had a good day. How are you?" he commented
"Fine." She responded sadly. "Things have been...slow. But manageable."
'She's lying. That guy...what was his name?' Ren thought, trying to recall what happened 'It has to be that doctor guy. I have to help her.'
"Deep in thought about this?" Tae asked as she saw him thinking deeply.
"No, it's something else." Ren apologised.
SLAM!
"Someone! Help!" a man yelled as the door to the small clinic was slammed open, the man holding a little girl
"What's wrong?" Tae immediately asked as she saw the man, carrying who she assumed his daughter.
"My daughter, she was diagnosed with bronchitis, but the medicine she was given isn't working at all. She has a fever that won't go away and losing weight because she isn't hungry. I don't know what to do."
"Bring her here. A young girl losing weight is definitely not good." Tae agreed and asked to put her on the bed. "You should've taken her to a bigger hospital. I can't provide a thorough examination here."
"We have been going to a big hospital. A university hospital in East Shinjuku." The girl's father explained.
"D-Daddy." The girl whimpered, feeling her fever hurt her.
"It's okay, I'm right here baby." He answered, holding her hand. "They just tell us it's 'persistent bronchitis'!"
Tae almost froze as she heard about that university, like it awoke a dark memory she tried so hard to forget.
"That doctor there performs exams like he's at a cashier's checkout or an assembly line. He's famous or something; please, you have to help." The man begged.
"'Famous doctor'? I'm just a general practitioner here, I don't even have a full staff." Tae answered.
Ren remained silent as he heard all this, vaguely recalling this memory, but he couldn't quite place it.
"I-I've heard that there's a medicine that can only be acquired here. Please, I'll pay you; just examine her." The man pleaded.
Tae double-took and wanted to back off. "Hold on a sec." Before she heard the girl cough.
"You'll be okay." Ren reassured her, giving her some bed-side manner.
"That's a very irresponsible thing to say, Mr Amamiya." Tae whispered, turning to him.
"Doctor." The man looked up to her.
"...Fine." Tae answered and immediately got to work, kneeling down and began the examination of the girl. '...No signs of swelling.' She thought as she carefully examined her. "Have you told me everything about her symptoms and treatments? Anything else could be vital."
"Yes, I'm sure." He nodded, recalling everything they did.
Tae hummed and nodded, before standing up and pulled her phone out to call someone. "Hello, Uehara-San? Is Dr Schweitzer there? I'd like to ask him about a case that was in the medical journal last month. Thank you." And she hung up. "I guess the ones in stock'll have to do. Mr Amamiya, there's a shelf by the reception desk, bring the contents of the second drawer into the exam room."
"Yes, Doctor." He nodded and did so.
"Bring also: the beaker with the red label in the fridge, a towel, a wash basin and a measuring spoon." She added
"Yes, Doctor." Re repeated and went to gather the needed items.
*Time Skip*
"Thank you so much! I can't believe how quick the medicine worked." The father spoke in relief and shock.
"Thank you, Doctor." The girl smiled weakly but feeling much better "Thank you Mr Nurse!"
"It's not problem. Happy to help." Ren smiled gently and proudly
"You're lucky I was here. This unique strain wouldn't have been found by conventional exams." Tae commented. "I temporarily suppressed the symptoms, we'll make adjustments as your condition improves. Today will cost a million yen."
Both Ren and the father looked in shock at her. "A-A million-? That's outrageous! You're-...No. I agreed to pay."
"Wait, are you serious?" Tae double-took, her own little joke turned into a full-blown shock, before she composed herself. "...That famous doctor you mentioned. Was it Medical Chief of Staff Oyamada?"
"Yes, that's correct." He nodded. "Are you familiar with him?"
"I knew it." Doctor Takemi sighed and rubbed her eyes. "In that case, I'll make it free of charge."
"Really?!" the man gasped
Tae chuckled and smiled to herself, Ren noticing that and spoke up. "You seem happy."
"Doesn't it feel good? Healing his patient without his permission." Tae responded. "By the way, thanks to your outburst earlier...I'm going to perform a very special exam on you today." She turned to Ren, making him gulp.
"He's your assistant? He seems awfully young." The father commented
"Yes, he's my assistant guinea pig." Tae answered "He's about to put in a lot of hard work today; aren't you?"
Ren's sweat dripped down his forehead...but he felt his bond with Takemi grow deeper
Death: Rank Four!
"Yeah, I'm happy to help." Ren said to the parents
"Thank you very much." The father bowed.
"Ms Doctor, can I go back to school yet?" The girl asked timidly
"Not for a while, you need to start eating and regain your strength first. You don't want to push yourself too much all at once." Tae answered, feeling a little 'ashamed' for being called 'doctor'. "As for you. I wonder what reaction you'll have this time."
GULP!
Ren felt a lump in his throat in worry.
*Time Skip*
Ren groaned as he was laying limp on the medical bed, Tae smiling sadly at him
"Welcome back, Guinea Pig." She waited for him to wake up as she looked at him fondly
"Urgh...That. That was weird." Ren commented. "How long was I out *that* time?"
"I think you're past curfew. I've called Leblanc." she explained
"Ah, thank you." Ren responded, slowly getting to his feet.
"No no, rest." she urged
"Whoa, okay." Ren stopped and slowly got back onto his back and rested. He was shocked to see her so protective, but he brushed it off
"Now, tell me how you're feeling right now." She asked
"Er... slugish? Tired?" he admitted as he stared at her
Tae nodded, taking notes. "How have you been since last time? Been keeping a healthy lifestyle?" She asked
"I work out, though I have the odd Aojiru once a week." Ren explained
"Aojiru?" she asked curiously
"Those drinks they sell weekly at the train station." Ren explained. "It's a once a week treat, but I do work out to burn those calories off." he rubbed his neck and chuckled "Although they don't have MANY calories, they are health drinks after all."
"Hmm." She hummed and looked at him, seeing that he was healthy and young... and she did try one of those drinks before to test them out. And they were filled with healthy fruits and vegetables.
...
She then blinked, seeing the large bulge in Ren's pants 'Oh my~.' She thought as she saw it.
"Huh? What's wrong?" Ren asked as he saw her brief gaze but not what they where looking at
"It's nothing. You seem to be a healthy young man." She answered as she had to admit, she liked what she saw
"Oh, if that's it, then can I go?" Ren asked
"No, not yet. You've only just gotten up." She answered as she licked her lips
"Err. What're you-?" He asked with a nervous gulp before he realised his erection "Oh god, sorry. I didn't realise." Ren gulped and instinctively covered his 'shame'.
"It's fine. It seems to be another side effect of the new sample." she commented
"What did you put in it? Viagra?" He asked nervously.
"No. But there are a lot of chemicals which can stimulate the body." she commented "It's that or you had a 'nice dream'."
"'Nice dream'?" Ren mumbled and tried to remember what he dreamt about. Which was Lavensa in a cute dress and the two of them on a date with Ann and Shiho...Yeah, that'd do it. That was TOTALLY what happened "I-I guess that's just being healthy; right?" Ren chuckled nervously.
"Yes, it is." she hummed
"Strip." she suddenly ordered, gathering up some equipment
"...I. What?" He gulped, hearing that since this would be the first time he changed in front of a woman.
"You've been my guinea pig for... how long? And I have never given you a full physical." she commented "And now seems like the perfect time."
Ren gulped a little louder that time since this was in a professional setting... he did agree to be her guinea pig after all. "Just to my vest and boxers, right?"
"Nope. It's a full physical. Need to make sure you are all healthy." she commented, snapping on a pair of latex gloves
"Help." He squeaked, hearing the snap and seeing the gloves.
CONFIDANT RECAP:
Fool: Rank 10
Magician: Rank 10
Lovers: Rank 5
World: Rank 4
Death: Rank 4
Lust: Rank 3
Strength: Rank 3
Chariot: Rank 3
Hierophant: Rank 3
Temperance: Rank 2
Moon: Rank 1
Hanged-Man: Rank 1
