arata7kasuga: It is tooo big of a risk. Especially since he beat both Igor and Lavenza before.
Also, do YOU remember EVERY aspect of what happened to you a YEAR ago (for an entire YEAR) with exact details?
Supermath33: The app was basically us explaining in-game mechanics lore wise. And Ren is still a bit... shaken and disturbed by his Palace.
Dragon and Sword Master: Well, they do have SOME level of sibling energy.
Rubius: You ask. On chapter 18. With no idea what we are actually doing. Especially as for AGES I have been HEAVILY hinting what is going on so much it felt like I was waving around a neon sign.
Cooperjordan: Well, I DO love Mass Effect.
Wolf: YAY! SOMEONE GOT IT!
Metal face: Fuck off you weirdo creep.
Luckenhaft: Well, they do have FISTS OF JUSTICE! on their side.
SpeedMaster642: Oh yes.
mgasmsms: YES! Two people get it!
tmurray345: Hell yeah, three people!
GreatLight432: Glad you liked it, and thanks for understanding.
But yeah, I was already getting PM's asking if the story was abandoned when I was A DAY LATE on uploading. Hence my apology since those dickheads made me doubt myself and get worries.
Also... yay! Four people!
Slackboy101: laughs evily
Thanatos D.E.M: Thank you. And that makes five!
Firem78910: My house is still not done, even on this upload. The bedrooms and kitchen are done. It is a week per room. Nearly finished though.
Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:
Firem78910: Yep, new Palace incoming.
Shadow Joestar: Things are going to happen.
StevieBond: Oh yeah. The talk twice. chuckle
Slackboy101: You'll have to wait for Mr Okumura, it's gonna be rough.
tmurray345: GUN IT! Insert motorbike revving
Xerzo LotCN: You're going to have to read this chapter to see what happens.
SpeedMaster642: Evil laughter Oh-ho-ho. My sweet summer child.
Lightsbane1905: It's Kobayakawa, give the guy an inch he'll take a leg.
Luckenhaft: Remember, Makoto hasn't gotten the bravery to tell her sister and feel like she has to do everything on her own. And if only it was that easy in regards of fighting the principal.
Mewtwo-TheLoneShadow: Yep, Ren's getting it on.
Mikelima: Thanks very much.
Legomasterlord: Have read it in Yusuke's voice and it was funny.
Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.
Co-written by GhostKaiser23
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Yoyoyo!
...
...
...
Okay... sorry.
I am never saying that.
EVER.
AGAIN.
EVER!
Anyway, here we go. Serious mode time.
New chapter, as we start our FIRST original arc!
Yes, FIRST!
You'll see later!
Have fun!
Also, James Harem 2 was updated a few hours ago. Check it out!
Also, Ghost has uploaded a new chapter of Sam and Bill DC One-Shots over on his profile today, check it out.
Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 22:
The Queen's Guillotine Hangs High
Ren blinked in shock as he held Makoto in his arms, the older girl crying into his chest. She had just told him something terrifying; the principal had threatened to expel her! 'What... the hell? This. That's impossible.' He thought
This... what?! This never happened before!
"Ren. I-I don't know what I'm going to do." She wept.
'Neither do I.' He thought and gulped in fear. "T-Tell me. Tell me what happened." He asked as he looked her in the eye
Makoto looked into his gaze, her eyes becoming bloodshot from the crying... but nodded and gave Ren his answer.
*Flashback*
"Sir?" She asked, entering the principals office
"Ah, Ms Niijima. Glad you could make it." Principal Kobayakawa responded, not looking up from his desk, the sun bouncing off his bald head as he was pondering something.
"May I ask why I am here?" She asked softly, standing proudly
"It's about your investigation into the Phantom Thieves." He responded
"Ah, yes Sir." She nodded. "My investigation is-"
"I haven't seen any results." He interrupted her "You said you where looking for them and you've turned up nothing."
Makoto cleared her throat and licked her lips so they wouldn't dry. "They are known as 'Phantoms' for a reason, Sir. They're difficult to tra-"
SLAM!
"No excuses! It's been weeks! The reports and support for these... villains has to stop! They're a threat!" Principal Kobayakawa answered with more anger Makoto had ever seen
Makoto backed up by a half-inch as she heard him, seeing his aggressive side. "You have shown me nothing but wasted time and no results! I doubt that you're even doing the job I set for you!"
"I am sorry sir, but I have been busy doing my other duties as-" Makoto tried to argue
"NO EXCUSES!" He roared, slamming his hands onto his desk. "This is paramount! The number one priority assignment you were tasked!"
Makoto took a step back in fear, her eyes shrinking into tiny dots
Principal Kobayakawa leaned back and composed himself. "You have until the end of August."
...
"Pardon?" She blinked
"Well... It is simple." he frowned "You have until Augest to catch the Phantom Thieves."
"Simple, Sir?" She gulped as she was worried about what he was going to say next "But that's not even two months!"
"Yes. You have until then to either find them or present proof they do not go to our school. Otherwise... You shall be expelled!" He snapped
Makoto's heart sank to her feet as she heard that. 'Expelled'? How could he do this?
...
No. Stupid question, he allowed Kamoshida in this school after all.
...
And that made her heart sink further as she realised everything. As all the peices fell into place and realisation smacked her face.
"You knew... Didn't you?" She asked
"What was that?" He turned to her.
"About Kamoshida... You knew, didn't you?" She asked bluntly
Principal Kobayakawa stared daggers at her. "Mr Kamoshida... was a staple of this school. He was an Olympic-"
"You. Knew." Makoto repeated. "And you covered it up... For the school's reputation. I heard rumours, I thought if they where true you would... or-or-or you and the teachers where doing something but... you LET him do that to everyone! You let hims rape-"
"You learn your place, Ms Niijima!" He slammed his hands onto the table. "Now. Do as you are told."
Makoto went silent, backing up as she was ordered by this man. What else could she do?
What could she do?
*End flashback*
'Shit.' Ren thought in shock and worry. This wasn't how it was supposed to go. Principal Kobayakawa was this corrupt? How could he not know? He was dead in the original timeline.
...
Oh crap.
Crap, crap, crap!
They had dealt with Kaneshiro in private! They didn't make a spectical of it like last time. The Principal hadn't been scared off! And... That means that Shiho wouldn't have sent Medjed after them!
Principal Kobayakawa's distortion had grown into a Palace... Because he was less afraid!
Ran rested his head on his hand and leaned forwards... what the hell had he done?!
This was HIS fault!
He unintentionally pressed his forehead against Makoto's, making her freeze and blush "I'm sorry, Makoto." Ren whispered, knowing what this meant. "But we will stop him... It just means we have a new target."
"'We'?" She whispered. "Are-Are you serious? You're going to steal-?"
"We're not losing you, Queen. I promise." Ren answered honestly and seriously. "Especially since you are protecting us."
Makoto looked at Ren as he said that, feeling grateful and overwhelmed "Thank you." She nodded ... And blushed as she realised the position they where in, backing off "Um, ahem. Wh-what do you think we should do?" She mumbled.
"What we always do." He added, pulling out his phone and sending a message in the group chat "See you tonight." He smiled
"O-Okay." She nodded, hope kindled in her heart.
*time skip*
It was after school, the group were all together in LeBlanc as they had didn't know what Ren had asked of them. After Futaba's palace, they thought they could take it easy for a little while.
The entire team was there
...
Well all but one, Ren thought as his mind drifted for a moment. Remembering her, Noir. And her fluffy hair, polite attitude and bright smile. Their group weren't all together... It didn't feel right.
...
One day.
"Sorry Ren. But I don't think I can keep up." Ann said, voicing what everyone was thinking. Too much too soon, they where all exhausted
Ren looked confused at Ann. "What do you mean?"
"Ren... it's only been a couple of days since Futaba's Palace. We're not like you who can go through someone's palace day in day out." Ann explained.
"And... not to be 'that guy'; can we just have a few days longer to rest?" Ryuji asked
"And before Futaba's Palace there was Kaneshiro's." Fox reminded
Ren frowned at the lack of enthusiasm they had... but they brought up very good points. He had a year's worth of memories and strength from the first time around. And he needed their help for this. "August." He spoke up.
"I'm sorry?" Shiho asked.
"Makoto has until the end of August." Ren explained.
The group looked at each other and began to mull it over in their heads.
"What day is it?" Ryuji asked
"July twelfth." Yusuke answered.
"Right..." Ryuji yawned and covered his mouth.
"And we have theschool festivel soon, which is gonna eat up our time a bit, right?" Shiho asked softly
"Yeah, that's right." Ren nodded.
"So no pressure then." Ann joked nervously.
"When is that?" Yusuke asked, not being from their school and sll
"Let me check." Ann spoke, getting out the diary. "Okay, the summer festival is on the 18th, meaning it's just right around the corner."
"Shit, is it really?" Ryuji groaned as he realised what it meant.
"And Makoto's deadline is August 31'st." Ann continued.
...
'Wait...' Ren thought 'Augest 31st... And today is July the... July the 12th?! What the fuck?!'
"Ren? You've just gone pale." Morgana commented, worried for him.
"It... It's all." Ren backed up onto the wall and held his head before he shook his head 'Damn it. No wonder they are so tired. Two palaces in less than a month?! What was I thinking?!'
"Ren, you've gone quiet." Shiho responded.
"Maybe he's worried for you guys." Futaba answered which caught everyones attention
"Okay... Okay we have plenty of time." Ren finally spoke "For a week or two, you guys relax. Mona, Oracle, Queen and I will do recon. Try and find his Place keywords and everything, have a small look around. And then we go serious once we enter Augest?"
The group looked at each other and sighed in relaxation. "Thank god." Yusuke smiled.
"Sweet...now we just gotta focus on the festival." Ryuji agreed.
Grumble~
"I think someone is more interested in dinner." Morgana chuckled.
"Th-that wasn't me!" Ryuji defended.
Futaba covered up her face trying to either stiffle her giggle... or to lay blame on Ryuji as she was getting hungry too.
"Hey, you have a corner store near here right?" Ann asked "How about we go shop a bit and have a group dinner?"
"Ooh! That sounds great!" Futaba clapped her hands.
"... I don't have my wallet." Yusuke frowned, looking in his pockets.
"I'll pay guys. My treat for making you go through this insanity." Ren offered.
"You don't have to-" Shiho responded.
"Most expensive ramen, here we come!" Ryuji and Futaba cheered, heading downstairs making Ren facepalm
"I'll have some fatty tuna if you're going." Morgana called in an order.
"Poke." Shiho poked and fussed Morgana's belly for a second, making it wibble a little.
"Hey!" He whined
"C'mon, Mona." Shiho teased a little. "We only tease 'cause we care about you." And smiled.
Ren sighed in relief, seeing his friends enjoying themselves again... hell, it felt good to wind down. Even just for a little while.
It felt... Almost right.
He closed his eyes, grabbed his wallet and lead the group to the nearby cafe.
*Time Skip, July 13th*
It was the following day, the talk of the Summer Festival was motivating the school; however, the oncoming threat of exams that preceded them was ominous. Especially for the Phantom Thieves. Since some of them were procrastinating because of the stress of studying.
...
Ryuji.
We are talking of Ryuji.
Partially Ann as well, but mainly Ryuji.
"AH! What the hell am I gonna do?" Ryuji groaned, rubbing his head in stress while he was with his friends in school.
"Maybe we can make notes for each other?" Shiho suggested.
"You do need the help." Morgana smirked
"I swear, cat!" Ryuji pointed at Mona, as they were alone.
"Guys, we can manage this. It'll be alright." Ren answered.
"I wish I had your confidence, Ren." Ann sighed.
"And a few other things, I bet." Ryuji muttered under his breath with a small laugh
"What was that?" Morgana asked, almost catching what he said.
"Nothing. Just remembered a joke." Ryuji lied as he smirked
"Ahem. Anyway." Ann blushed as she averted her gaze off of Joker "Good luck in the test guys." She added
"We're gonna need it." Ren agreed.
"I just hope that we can enjoy the festival after all this." Shiho agreed.
"Yeah." Makoto nodded weakly
"We're gonna get on it; okay?" Ren reassured her. "We just need time." Ren reassured her as he gripped her arm softly
Makoto nodded simply as she felt better... but she felt like her time was up, or at the very least heavily numbered.
Ann and Shiho saw this and knew this was important, but chose not to say anything. Even if they felt jealous.
"Maybe I can help you with your exams?" Makoto offered.
"No offence, but I don't think second year and thrid year exams are the same." Shiho responded
"But I did GO through the second year exams." she reminded
...
"Are the answers the same?" Ryuji perked up.
"No." She deadpanned
Ryuji's head fell downwards as anime tears streamed from his eyes. "I'm so screw-ew-ewd." making everyone laugh
...
"Where did Ren go?" Shiho noted
Ren was away from his friends, he needed to take this opportunity to collect info. He messed up, he couldn't just coast on the info from the other Palaces... he had to be smart. And the best sources of information? The teachers.
They guessed correctly that his distortion was the school... But they didn't know what he saw it as
"Ms Kawakami." Mr Ushimaru spoke up, going towards her.
"Oh, Mr Ushimaru. Is something the matter?" She asked as she was holding a can of coffee. A present from her favourite student.
"Yes, something's the matter." He responded. "Kobayakawa is making us work during the summer festival if our classes don't pass at least 50%!"
"What? He can't just announce that!" She responded.
"That's what I tried to say to him. But no; he just demanded 'If more than half of your class fails this exam, consider the festival cancelled! So drill knowledge into their brains if you have to and get results!'." Mr Ushimaru answered.
Ren's eyes went wide as he heard that, this was getting serious now.
"He expects us to cram months amount of work in the next few days? Ever since Kamoshida was arrested he's been treating all of us like he's a drill sergeant!" Ms Kawakami answered.
''Drill Sergeant'?' Ren thought and caught that term, that had to be something.
"He's always been obsessed with the schools image." Mr Ushimaru frowned "I mean how often do we complain about stuff that matters and the bottom line is 'but the school'. The books are outdated? But they look pristeen and brand new."
"We can't get people on to fix the issues with the roof access because builders would make the school look bad." Kawakami added with a nod
'Covering for Kamoshida because having an Olympic gold medalist as the gym coach makes the school look good.' Ren thought bitterly
"I can't stand that man right now. You know what? I don't care if he hears me but... I'm agreeing with these Phantom Thieves." Mr Ushimaru growled and then whispered to Ms Kawakami so that no-one could hear them.
"Huh?" She blinked in shock
"After what happened with Kamoshida, hell I didn't want to admit it. But talk about them because of some recent big named people... it's getting harder to ignore. Despite what I think they're doing is wrong... they show results." He explained.
"I guess." She nodded with a frown, yawning
"Mr Kobayakawa giving you double shifts again?" He asked
"Yes, that." She muttered
Ren frowned as he saw her, she was so tired most of the time...he knew he had to get her out of this predicament. But he had what he needed.
'Kobayakawa' and 'Drill Sergeant'.
Hopefully.
Or at least clues to work out the true key words. Maybe he could get some more Keywords from the other teachers.
He turned around, ready to head out... only to bump into a familiar older girl "Oof, I'm sorry." Ren apologised.
"N-No. It's alright." The girl answered, brushing herself off.
"Oh, Haru." Ren realised who it was.
"Oh, Ren. It's been a while." She admitted.
"Yeah, it is. How are you?" He asked and saw she was carrying more fertilizer
"I'm fine, just." She struggled. "Carrying these to the roof." She answered. "Part of my gardening club."
"Gardening club?" Ren asked, feigning ignorance
"Yes!... It is just me though." she nodded and smiled softly, some sadness in her eyes
'Oh yeah... that's right.' He thought and frowned. "Do you need help with this?"
"Really?" she blinked and smiled
"Yeah, I'm stronger than I look." Ren smiled, taking the fertilizer off her. Though it was heavy, it wasn't something he couldn't handle. He held it high, calmly following her to the roof
"Thank you, this really helps." She commented as she led the way, but helped keep an eye on Ren in case he fell and taking care of looking at his muscles 'How much does he work out?' She pondered to herself. 'He must do it daily.' She couldn't help to look at him, even when her heart was quickening in embarrassment 'He is much better off physically... Much more attractive... Than Sugimura.'
"Hnn, okay. Are we almost there?" Ren asked as they neared the roof after climbing up nearly six flights of stares.
"Y-Yes!" The floofy one nodded
"Good. Cause I think I'm gonna tumble backwards." Ren admitted, keeping himself leaning forward. He felt the fresh air wash over him, making him take a deep and happy sigh
"Here, let me take that." Haru spoke as she took the fertilizer and put it down to the side.
"Ah! Thanks..." Ren sighed
"Huh. This place is a bit... barren." he blinked, seeing the Phantom, Thieves original base
"I know it's a little... a lot empty. But soon, it won't be." Haru answered. "I've got good plans to grow some delicious vegetables up here."
"I am sure it will be great." he smiled "Want some help?"
"Really? Thank you. If you help plant those support-sticks, they'll be used for the tomatoes." Haru answered, pointing to the side.
"Right." He smiled. He had to admit, he always felt guilty. He felt like out of the team... Out of the old team, he knew her the least
"It's a good thing it's summer, it'll give them plenty of time to grow." Haru spoke kindly as they planted the budding vines.
"Yeah." He nodded
"I haven't seen you around for a while. Have you been busy?" Haru asked, trying to make small talk.
"You could say that." He flinched
"Well, I'm glad you're here now." She answered. "It's nice having others around."
"Oh." Ren frowned
"But, thank you for being here with me." She said with a beaming smile
"What can I say, you're a great person." He smiled
She tucked her hair behind her ear and blushed a little. "Thank you. I think that's all we can do now." And she got up from crouching.
Ren smiled... And felt his heart glow
I am Thou. Thou art I.
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Empress Persona, I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and new power...
Empress: Rank 1
"Well... I'll see you around. Okay?" Ren extended his hand to her while feeling shocked himself
"Yes, I... I'll see you later." She nodded, shaking his hand with a blush
Ren gave a small smile as they broke the handshake and left Haru on the roof as she clutched her chest softly
*time skip*
"You ready for the test?" Morgana asked as Ren had finished studying for today while in LeBlanc.
"Yes." He nodded confidential
"Good, I just hope they're gonna be easy. We don't want any repeats." Mona answered.
"Hey, it's me. I did it before." Ren answered, turning to him.
...
"This entire situation is bad." he admitted
Ping
"I guessed." Futaba's text read "I'm downstairs. Want me to come up?"
Ren sighed and nodded. "Yeah, I'd appreciate it, Futaba."
...
"And you are removing these spy cams from my room!
Ping
"Not likely, hehehe!"
Quickly coming up the stairs, Futaba came in wearing her normal long-sleeved clothing and a sneakers. Her arms where behind her as she rushed up, almost jumping at him like a ball of energy
...
"How much sugar?" Mona asked
"Too much." Ren answered.
"I'm not that hyped up!" Futaba answered with a pout and a blush
"Sorry, it's just this exam stuff has me a little... distracted." He admitted "But Makoto's situation... that's more important."
"And you're worried about it, right?" she commented "It didn't happen last time, did it?"
"Absolutely not." Ren shook his head. "It's honestly a relief I can talk to someone about this."
"Well, you can tell me anything." She answered with a wide smile
Ren took a cleansing breath and sighed gently. "I feel guilty about this, I feel guilty that I got Makoto into this worse than the first time. Last time she just blew up at Kaneshiro in his Palace. But this? Right with exams around the corner...I'm not sure what to do."
"Oh... damn." she blinked
"In addition, since I took down that greedy fly earlier this month, this free time just opened up a whole new beast I'm not prepared for." Ren added "Originally, around now, we would be fighting a group known as Medjed."
"'Medjed'?" Futaba asked in confusion. "That's-"
"Your old handle. I know." Ren accidentally interrupted. "They tricked us... got us to target Mr Okumura." He explained, flinching "Don't want to go into too much detail... But I thought we'd have this month off. That we could do something without this lunatic in the way."
"Yeah, I guess that's the old 'time-travel logic' of 'cause and effect'. Something had to happen during this time off." Futaba answered as she kicked her legs back and forth
"I guess I expected too much for things to be easier." Ren answered
"Yep. Sorry, you're not playing on easy difficulty." Futaba responded
"Yeah, that's what it feels like." He rubbed his arm gently. "Guess things can't go my way this time round, either."
"Well... When did you last time? When did I join the team?" Futaba asked
"Not until later." Ren answered. "Not for another month."
"Oh." She muttered, her heart fluttering faster
"Honestly... I'm glad I raced through Kaneshiro. It's good to see you smile." Ren answered honestly and proudly, making her blush
"S-So. Um. H-How do you plan out these Palaces?" She fumbled her words.
"Well we need to work out the key words and do some basic recon." He shrugged
"Huh. Okay. Is there anything I can do?" Futaba answered
"Well when Makoto gets here you can help with the keywords." Ren explained "And we are gonna need our Navi once we get in."
Futaba smirked as he said that and playfully poked him. "'Hey, listen!'"
Ren chuckled and rubbed her head. "Exactly."
"Hehe." She giggled
Morgana saw the pair and smiled, glad to see the two get close again.
Suddenly Ren's phone buzzed, a message from Makoto "Sorry, gotta check this." Ren apologised.
"No problemo." Futaba answered, going to the side as Ren read the message. She sat down, looking at his figure, as Ren flicked through his phone
"Ren, I hope you're reading this. I'm scared about all of this. What am I going to do?" Read the message.
He sighed and typed a response, gripping his phone tightly before responding
"It will be okay Makoto, we will fix this. Are you close to my place? We and Futaba can get to work."
A moment later, Makoto responded.
"Yeah, I'm in Yongen-Jaya. If it's okay I can come over."
"Of course it is."
"Is everything okay?" Futaba asked
"Yeah, Makoto's just coming over." He answered
"Oooh! Two girls alone with you in your room again, Joker?" She teased/joked
Ren deadpanned as he looked at Futaba... but he knew she was joking. "Yeah, and maybe I'll place my head on your laps." He sarcastically responded
...
Futaba went bright red and froze at that remark
"Whoa, easy Futaba. I was kidding!" Ren answered as he saw her... basically shut down. He began to shake her in worry, as Makoto walked in
"Ren? Are you up here?" Makoto asked.
Ren was stunned to try and help Futaba. "Um, yeah. I'm up here. Shoot, why did I say that?!" as Futaba fell to the floor
Crash!
"I'm okay!" She yelled
Makoto quickened her step as she heard that crash and saw Futaba on the floor who was brushing herself off. "What's going on? What happened?" Makoto asked, thinking something bad happened.
"Nothing, just an accident." Joker half lied
"Yeah, I'm fine." Futaba reassured.
Makoto looked at Futaba, who didn't seem to have any wounds or bruises and concluded that it was an accident. "Okay. Sorry. I-I guess I'm just on edge."
"Hey, understandable." Futaba answered "Besides, you're the team mum."
"... Wait; what?" Makoto blinked in confusion.
"You weren't told that?" Futaba asked teasingly
"Futaba." he facepalmed
"What?" She giggled
"Fine." He sighed "Alright. Okay. So let's work on these keywords."
"Right, the words used to get into the Palace; right?" Makoto asked as she pulled out a blank notepad.
"Yeah, that's right. I've already got his name and something else." Ren responded
"What is it?" Makoto asked as she wrote down 'Kobayakawa'
"It was 'Drill Sergeant'. Not sure what to make of it though." He answered.
"Well we know his name. And the school." Makoto sighed
"But drill Sargent wouldn't be the keyword." Morgana frowned and paced back and forth
"Who called him that?" Futaba asked Ren
"Mr Ushimaru and Ms Kawakami. I eavesdropped on them while trying to get some info." Ren answered "Plus a few others."
...
"What was the context?" Makoto suddenly asked
"Um... Hang on." Ren asked, trying to remember it. "They were... talking about how... if the teachers want the summer festival holiday, they need to cram as much info in our heads. And of there wasn't... a set 'pass mark' then they'd be stuck in summer school with the students."
"Okay." She nodded, waiting for him to continue
...
"Okay?" He asked
"Tell me, to the best of your memory, the EXACT sentence they used the term drill sergeant in." Makoto explained
"Oh, I get what you're getting at!" Futaba chuckled "Context and association, right?"
"Yeah." She nodded back with a smile
"Right." Ren nodded as Mona remained silent, he was obviously asleep during that time so he couldn't be of much help. "Mr Ushimaru said... 'If more than half of your class fails this exam... then consider the festival cancelled. Drill knowledge into their brains if you have to and get results!'." Ren answered. "And then Ms Kawakami said 'He expects us to cram months amount of work in the next few days? Ever since Kamoshida was arrested he's been treating all of us like he's a drill sergeant!'"
...
"Bingo." Makoto whispered with a grin as she and Futaba worked in the MetaNav
"Bingo? What 'bingo'?" Ren asked
"If he sees himself as a drill instructor, forcing students to grow how he wants, then he sees the school... As a military prison!" She explained
Match Found!
"Huh?" The four gasped as the MetaNav sounded out.
"That actually worked?" Futaba asked
"Wow." Ren blinked
"So... do we go now?" Makoto asked nervously as the world was morphing around them
"Wh-what's happening?" Futaba asked as she panicked a little.
"We're going to the MetaVerse." Ren answered as the world warped and changed quickly
"Wh-whoa!" Futaba and Makoto called out as they landed in the miscoloured Metaverse, where they were still were dressed normally.. .except for Mona who turned into his Metaverse form.
"Everyone okay?" Mona asked as he brushed himself off.
...
"KITTY!" Futaba cheered as she saw him. She grabbed the humanoid cat, hugging them tightly
"Gah! Futaba! Come on!" Mona groaned, feeling strangled by the hug "Again?!"
"Wait... Are we in LeBlanc? Or are we near the school?" Makoto asked
"Still in LeBlanc." Ren commented "I think."
"Well... We can drive." Mona answered. "If it'll get us closer to the Palace. Remember Kaneshiro?"
"Right." He nodded back
"Wait, you can turn into a car?!" Futaba asked excitedly.
"Yep, let me go and I'll show you when we get outside." He answered as he rushed out. The three left the cafe, seeing Mona take a deep breath. "Morgana~... Henshin!" Morgana pointed outwards with his paws, raising his right one over his head in an arc before resting it horizontally and then jerked his left arm to his right shoulder, leaping into the air and turned into the Phantom Thieves' bus.
...
"What the hell?!" Futaba gasped with stars in her eyes
"Why can the cat turn into a car?" Makoto asked in shock.
"Current cognition of people." Both Ren and Mona answered together. Even though Makoto had saw the bus last time... it was still weird for her
"Can I drive?" Futaba asked
"But I always drive." Ren responded
"No, I'll drive. I've got an actual license." Makoto answered, reminding him, as both Ren and Futaba entered the back of the bus.
Vrrm!
The four drove down the streets of Yongen-Jaya, taking the train tracks towards the school... or what was supposed to be the school.
"Why can't I drive?" Ren grumbled softly "You drove last time."
"I will turn this car around if you keep complaining." She answered as she kept her eyes on the road.
"Mum, Dad, don't fight." Futaba whined, falling face first into Mona's seats as she had the back all to herself "... Mona. Your seats are soft."
"Oh, thank you, Futaba." Mona answered as began to arrive.
"We weren't... It's not-." Ren sighed, trying to apologise.
"What in the world?" Makoto gasped as she saw the School coming into view.
No longer was it a school, it was a three-tiered hexagonal prison area. With a large fence and guard towers looking in on the inside. Spotlights were scanning the outside but didn't go past the fence itself. Which was lucky, because Ren saw a certain blue prison door that led to the Twins.
'The twins?' he thought, his eyes flicking around. Trying to see if there was another door for Lavenza
"Okay, unless everyone wants to stay in, we've arrived." Mona commented.
"R-Right." Makoto answered, looking at the Palace in fear as they disembarked.
"I knew school was evil." Futaba muttered before, in a flash of blue flames, she was suddenly in her Phantom Thief outfit "Huh? My clothes!"
"I guess even outside, the principal doesn't trust us." Ren commented, already wearing his Phantom Thieves gear and saw a second blue door which was hidden around the corner so the twins wouldn't see
"Yeah, Futaba doesn't go here so he sees her as a threat?" Mona nodded "And he's worried about Joker giving the school a bad rep."
"But then... what about me?" Makoto asked nervously.
"Well... I don't want to say it, maybe he sees you not as a threat, but something within his cognition." Ren answered. "The same thing happened with other Palaces. Plus you haven't awoken to a spirit of rebellion yet."
"Oh. Yes, that." Makoto frowned as she exited the bus.
"Meow!" Mona called out, turning back to his normal state.
"Futaba, give the entrance a scan. Mona, look after Makoto. I'll be right back." Joker asked
"Where are you going?" Makoto asked
"I won't be long, I just have to get some supplies." Joker half-lied, going to the door. He walked towards the glowing cell door, wondering which twin was waiting for him
"Welcome back, Inmate." Justine spoke politely as she waited for him.
"Hey Justine." He smiled
"It seems you've made enemies much closer than expected." Justine calmly spoke.
"Seems like it." He nodded.
"This way." She opened the door for him as he entered.
"Right."
Through the door, Ren was stripped of his Thieves clothing and turned into a prisoner once again. Wearing the tattered black and white stripe prisoner's garb as before.
BANG!
"Ow." He grumbled, feeling the steel bars against his face as he accidentally walked into it
"Hey! Watch it, Inmate!" Caroline, Justine's sister snapped, hitting the bars of the prison-cell.
"Welcome back, Trickster." The fake Igor responded. "You have been busy these past few days."
"Yeah, I have." He answered as he looked at the twins, his Persona shinning within him
"Impressive." The fake answered "I must go, I shall be back shortly." he said, disappearing in blue flames. He must be searching for the other Velvet Room.
"Well? Do you have any more Persona that we asked of you?" Caroline asked, pointing her baton at him.
"Actually, yeah. I do." Ren smirked confidently as the next three Persona they asked for emerged from him
Appearing within the cell and surrounding Ren, were: black-furred cat standing on its hind-legs, wearing blue armour with silver ruffles, a red-wine front cloth, a golden edged torso-plate with a dark blue cat-head symbol on, a seafoam green cloak-scarf around its neck, shimmering green eyes, a black general's hat with gold fitted upon it with a red tassel that looked like a lit flame, in its right paw was a black gripped cat-styled red baton and on his back were a pair of red-cloth wooden-pole stands that had two markings, one a cat's paw and one was a cat's head with open eyes.
Next, was a barefoot woman in a red bodysuit with black gloves, wearing a cape with a three-pointed shape design, bundled up golden hair with purple loops.
And finally, a large dark-teal skinned humanoid figure, strong abdominal muscles, many, many arms and ahead with multiple glassy blue eyes and gaping mouths coming from the sides and back of its bald head, and around its neck was a silver chain with a golden padlock on it.
"Neko Shogun with Dekaja, Lachesis with Tetraja and Hecatoncheires with Masukunda." Ren smiled.
"Impressive." Justine whispered as she looked at the list of Persona that Ren could go through next.
"Three at once?" Caroline blinked in shock
"I've been busy." Ren responded confidently.
The two sisters began to mumble to each other as they saw these quality Personas. How talented was he? But that wasn't all, the two where thinking about other things.
"Is it me, or did he get a little... buffer?" Caroline whispered with a little blush to her cheeks.
"He's certainly more confident." Justine agreed, taking a quick peek behind herself and shuddered happily as she looked at her clip board... Thinking
"What? What is it? Can we give him anything more?" Caroline asked
...
"Where did this list come from?" Justine asked
"Huh? What're you talking about?" Caroline asked, "Hasn't it always been here?"
"I...I don't know." Justine admitted, holding her head. while Ren frowned quietly
'They need the push.' He thought to himself. "Are you okay? Is something wrong?"
Szzz!
"Shut up inmate!" Caroline snapped
"Hmm." Ren frowned as he flinched at the clang of his bars "You two don't need to hide. I'm here to help you." He encouraged, glaring at the seat where the game Igor sat
"How can you, help us?" Justine asked as she looked at him.
"Because I'm your friend." he said proudly
The two sisters looked at him in wonder and shock... he saw them as 'friends'? They both became flustered, one more than the other.
Ren saw this and could almost feel something within his heart grow closer to them. He knew he was getting through to them.
Strength Rank: 6!
Strength Rank: 7!
Strength Rank: 8!
He internally smiled as he felt this connection. Just a little more. Just some more time.
"... Thank you." Caroline said moments later
"Any time." He smiled. "Do you want to talk?"
"D-Don't get too comfortable with us, Inmate!" Justine commented "We are still your wardens!"
"Okay, okay. I just thought that we'd be getting a little closer now." Ren answered while pulling out some puppy dog eyes
...
The two sisters pulled away and looked at each other, trying to be quiet. "Oh my god, that's so cute!" they whisper-squealed at each other, trying to catch themselves
"Quiet, quiet. We can't let him-" Caroline whispered
"I know, I know!" Justine answered "I mean I know you spend hours in front of a mirror, practicing poses for the inmate, but-"
"Justine! Shut up!" Caroline hissed back with a blush
'Wait, what?' Ren thought in shock as he heard that. "What was that?"
Zzzz!
"B-Baka!" The two called out, holding the stun baton together. Mainly Caroline, the tsundere
"Gack-kee!" Ren sparked as he still had his hand on the door. He stumbled backwards, stumbling out of the prison like velvet room
"Joker! Are you okay?" Mona asked as he saw the frazzled man.
"Yeah. Fine." He nodded, static running up his hair
"Did you touch an electric fence or something?" Makoto panicked as she saw him.
'Strange, I didn't see anything like that.' Futaba thought to herself.
"Where did you go, anyway, you just disappeared?" Makoto added
"Ah. Well. I had to do something." He shuffled his hair back to normal... though it still had some of the frizz from before.
"Should we heading in?" Oracle asked
"Yeah." Joker nodded, looking into the sky
CONFIDANT RECAP:
Fool: Rank 10
Magician: Rank 10
Strength: Rank 8
Chariot: Rank 7
Lovers: Rank 7
Lust: Rank 6
World: Rank 5
Death: Rank 5
Sun: Rank 4
Hierophant: Rank 4
Temperance: Rank 4
Devil: Rank 4
Emperor: Rank 3
Moon: Rank 2
Hanged-Man: Rank 2
Fortune: 2
Star: 1
Empress: 1
