Ren Amamiya Ace Attorney

by Galaxy.Satt-XY

Not only he will steal the hearts of the corrupted ones, but he will also punish them at court. He is Ren Amamiya, the leader of the Phantom Thieves, and the newest Ace Attorney. With his mentors, he's going to change everything.

8. Chapter 8 Updated

Chapter written by me and revised my Foxchick1. Please check her work.

-So, what are you two going to do? — Sokuzen asked. — I need an answer right now before we proceed.

Kamoshida and Kobayakawa stared at the prosecutor and then snapped towards Ren in disbelief. None of them expected that from the black-haired teenager's proposal. Retreating to discuss the matter, Kobayakawa glanced at Ren with doubt and suspicion.

-What do you think? — The principal asked, looking back to Kamoshida. The coach crossed his arms in thought.

-I don't know. Definitely, something's odd with his proposal. But…

-But what?

-It's a good opportunity as he stated. Besides, I don't see the point of denying his proposal. — Kamoshida said, tapping his arm with his index finger.

-I don't trust this boy.

-Neither me, but that's not the case. The case is he has cornered us, and if he sues us, we're doomed.

Kamoshida sighed.

-You have a point but think about the good side of it. If we win, he'll be arrested and we don't need to worry about him anymore.

-Hm… You have a valid point indeed. — Kobayakawa noted. — But it's too risky. It's Shujin's reputation on the line.

Kamoshida hit his index finger on his arm, his eyes closed as he thought about how to solve that impasse.

-If we don't have a choice, we better accept his proposal, besides it isn't like he possesses any proof against us. It's his word against ours.

Kobayakawa smiled.

-Yeah. He doesn't have any proof against us. That'll be his doom.

Both came back and said:

-We accept Amamiya's proposal.

-Well then, it's settled. This case will be solved in court. Do you agree with that, Amamiya-san? — Sokuzen asked.

-Yes, although I have some conditions. Prosecutor Sokuzen is aware of my conditions. — Ren replied.

-What conditions? — Kamoshida asked.

-Don't worry. Mr. Amamiya asked to impose some conditions to make sure to have a fair trial. All the details are written here in this agreement. I made sure everything will be fair to both sides to avoid any problems in the future. Do you both agree? — Sokuzen asked.

-Yes. — All of them answered.

-Good. I need two witnesses.

-Ms. Kawakami, can you be one of the witnesses? — Ren asked.

-What!? Me? — She asked in surprise.

-Yes. We need a witness to make the agreement valid. Can you do that for us, please?

Kawakami sighed but nodded in affirmation.

-Okay, I can do that… — Kawakami answered and she sighed heavily, mumbling. — What I did to deserve this.

-About the second witness… — Sokuzen started.

-I do believe Mr. Sakura will be the wisest choice in this case. — Kobayakawa said, and Ren nodded in agreement.

-I will call him.

Ren called Sojiro and half-hour later he appeared. He adjusted his trilby hat and glanced at Sokuzen and Ren.

-Why did you call me? — Sojiro asked.

-I need you to be one of the witnesses of our agreement. — Ren replied.

-So, you really goin' to do it… What a troublesome kid you are…

-I totally agree with you. I never saw someone so troublesome as him.

Sojiro approached Ren and asked.

-Are you sure 'bout that?

-Absolutely.

Sojiro nodded and turns in Sokuzen direction.

-Where do I need to sign? — The middle-aged man asked.

After that, Sokuzen showed the agreement and everyone signed as requested. After that, he gave each one a copy.

-Here are the copies. One copy to each person involved. If you have any doubts, you can call me and I'll explain. Any questions?

-No. — Everyone answered.

-Very well. I'll be going now. I will see you later Mr. Amamiya.

-I see you later Mr. Sokuzen.

Sokuzen left the room and Kobayakawa glared deadly at Ren.

-Satisfied? — Kobawakaya asked Ren furiously.

-Yes. I am satisfied. — The teenager replied calmly.

-I'd hope you'll be found guilty in a blink of an eye. I'll make you regret what you have done.

Kobayakawa exited the Guidance Office, stepping furiously on the floor.

-I'll be goin' too. I have a shop to run. I see you at night. — Sojiro said exiting the place and Ren nodded at him.

-I hope you're happy now… — Kamoshida said angrily as well and sighed tiredly. — I need to go. I have to attend to the next class.

Kamoshida exited the room and Kawakami stared at Ren silently waiting for an answer.

-I told you, it's not something dubious or shady. — Ren answered.

-A lawsuit!? Have you lost your mind!? — Kawakami asked furiously.

-Look, I'm not happy either, you know? When I said I was to take serious measures, I wasn't joking. The principal has a lot to explain, about his behavior and how the rumors about me had spread so fast. Only a teacher could've done that.

-And you are suspicious of Mr. Kamoshida?

-Honestly speaking, yes. Besides most, do not say all the teachers except for him and you avoid talking to me and talk about me. He was the only one who openly talks about me. And before you say that's Sakamoto's influence, I need to remind you of the talk he had with Yoshizawa in front of us.

Kawakami went silent, without being able to come up with a comeback. She looked away, trying to figure out an answer.

-Kawakami-sensei, I wasn't going to do that if I had a choice. Trust me, I am not doing this because I want to, it's because I need to. I will do my best to not get into more trouble.

-How can I believe in you if you forced me to sign an agreement…? — She whispered.

-No, I asked you if you could be a witness. It was your choice.

Kawakami sighed.

-I know…

-My deepest apologies about that. I didn't want to involve you in my matters, but I don't have any choice.

-It's okay… You're my responsibility after all… Well, I think we should come back to class.

-Yes, I agree with you.

-But before we go, one question: Do you have an attorney?

Ren stopped and to Kawakami's surprise, he smiled at her.

-Don't worry Kawakami-sensei. I can defend myself.

Ren and Kawakami left the Guidance Office and both went back to Class 2-D. Everyone was chattering until they arrived for their surprise. The mumble continued as Ren sat on his seat and took his pen, spinning with his fingers without any worry. Discretely Ren took his phone and sent a message to Ann and Ryuji.

My part of the plan is complete. Now it's time to act. Meet me on the rooftop. We need to go.

—

Shujin Academy

Rooftop

After School

—

Ren, Ryuji, Ann, and Morgana were reunited in front of the rooftop entrance, all of them watching the rain as Morgana stretched out after staying too long inside Ren's desk.

-Okay, now we all are here, let's talk about the actual situation of the plan. — Ren said calmly. — As I've messaged you two, phase one of the plan is complete. They agreed to solve this in court.

-That's good to hear. — Ann said.

-One less thing to worry about. — Ryuji said. — So, what's next?

-The plan, for now, is going well, but I hope you all understand that our time limit is May 2nd. Both Kamoshida and Kobawakaya are counting on the trial like us, but I doubt they'll respect the terms. — Morgana said

-That's why I asked Sokuzen to rush the opening process of the trial, but we need to be prepared if the worst happens. If the trial occurs in May, I need to end the trial on May 2nd. In that time, we'll need to find a safe route to the treasure. — Ren said calmly.

-To summarise, we basically just have to go to the castle and steal the Treasure from Kamoshida, right? — Ann asked. Morgana nodded in affirmative.

-But wait, what even is a Treasure? I wanna know that before we do anything. — Ryuji asked.

-A Treasure is the physical form of the Palace ruler's distorted desires. In other words, it's the core of the Palace. Once we steal it, the Palace will crumble… I think.

-That's all? We can't count with "I think", we need to be sure, Morgana. — Ren said.

-Yes, that's all. Having said all that, even I don't know what Kamoshida's Treasure is going to be. — Morgana answered seriously.

-You said you were just going to Kamoshida's Palace just to investigate a way to recover your true form. Asking for more than you know is just useless. — Ren said calmly as ever. — At least you have an idea of how to proceed?

-Yes. I know how to take us to the Treasure. — Morgana answered.

-And where can we find it? — Ann asked.

-There's no way of knowing that until we go in and find out. But if I had to guess, I'd say he has it locked up somewhere in the depths of the Palace. — Morgana replied

-Eh, I think I get it now. We just gotta find the Treasure, yeah? — Ryuji asked.

-Pretty much. There's just a lot we won't know until we go in… — Morgana said.

-Obviously, the Treasure is not to be exposed for everyone to find. That won't be a problem if we know how to proceed. Finding the Treasure's location will be the easy part of our plan as far as I can see. — Ren said and sighed. — Considering everything we're going to deal with.

-Now our objective is to find the Treasure's location. The Treasure is somewhere in the Palace, and once we find it…

-I will solve this in court and steal it after winning the case. All before the deadline. — Ren said.

-Make sure we go about this with time to spare so we can avoid unforeseen circumstances. — Morgana warned Ren.

-Okay, I have everything planned. We can do this without any problems. — Ren answered.

-One more thing, when we get closer to the Treasure, the security level rises naturally, so be careful everyone. Once we get close, we'll have to deal with reinforced security, powerful Shadows, and constant ambushes. That is do it or do it, so be ready.

-We understand. We are not going to fail. We can't fail.

-…I expect great things from you guys. — Morgana said. — Now, any thoughts?

-I have a question about the trial. — Ann said with a doubtful expression.

-Yes?

-What if the trial happens in May?

-She's right. Ain't the board meetin' on May 2nd? — Ryuji asked. Ren nodded in affirmative. — We're not gonna get expelled immediately, but y'know, we need to get this before May and try bein' a bit more careful.

-You're right, Ryuji. We need to be careful, but to act fast as well. We have two weeks to get a safe route and steal Kamoshida's heart. But considering the actual situation, we need to get the route and fast. — Ren said.

-The trial, right? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes. Answering your question Ann, in the worst case, the trial date can be set in three days. That is the minimum of days necessary to start and conduct the necessary investigation to start a trial by Japan's legal system. If that happens, I have to do the rest of the investigation tomorrow. Don't worry, after all, I was taught to do this based on the US legal system. — Ren explained.

-I heard this once by Mr. Ushimaru. He commented about the time limit of three days, or something… I haven't paid much attention. — Ann said, confused.

-Yes. The Initial Trial System. That system was made and implemented at the beginning of the 21st century in the US, due to the overflow of the backlog of court cases, making it a necessity to unburden the system flow, by speeding up all the process. Because of that, I was trained to make all the investigations in one single day before the trial.

-What da eff!? That's crazy!? — Ryuji commented.

-Yes, but because of that, I'm able to make the necessary investigation in time. — Said Ren.

-So, you counting on that!? — Morgana asked in disbelief.

-Yes, that's why we need to start the infiltration today. — Said Ren.

-Well then, let's go over how things are looking right now. — Said Ann.

-We gotta do that fast, but we don't even know where it is… — Ryuji said, sighing in frustration.

-We have to search the whole Palace to find it. We can do this. — Ren said.

-Be extra careful about the guard Shadows. Getting beaten to a pulp is the last thing we need now. — Morgana warned.

-Well we're managin'. I don't think we gotta worry too much. — Ryuji commented. — That should sum things up for the time being.

-Okay, with that, let's go. We don't have the luxury to waste time. — Ren said, picking up his phone and setting the location in Metaverse Navigator to Kamoshida Palace.

—

Metaverse

Kamoshida's Palace. Front Entrance.

After School

—

-So, any ideas? — Ren asked, looking at Ann.

-Not yet, but daaamn… — Ryuji said.

-Hm? What's up? — Ann asked with some suspicion. Ren mentally snickered looking at the scene.

-N-Nothing… — Ryuji quickly answered, stopping to stare at Ann's outfit. — I-I was just thinkin' we should choose a code name for you too.

"Nice one Ryuji. I hope Ann fell that." Ren thought.

-Riiight… — She said, glancing at Ryuji. — By the way, code names?

-Yeah. To hide our identities. I'm Skull.

-I'm Mona. — Morgana said, pointing to himself.

-I'm Joker. — Ren said. — Our code names are from our traits.

-Joker's special. That's why his code name's Joker. — Mona said proudly. — Now let's see a code name for you.

-I have some ideas. — Ryuji said, admiring Ann again.

-Well judging by your costume… — Morgana said, analyzing too.

-Yeah, somethin' 'bout felines… I mean, she's got that tail and stuff, so… — Ryuji said, holding his chin.

-Let's ask Ren. — Ann suggested.

-Okay. Whadda you think, Ren? — Ryuji asked.

Ren held his chin for a moment, giving a quick glance to Ann.

-How about… Sexy Cat? — Ren said thoughtfully, toying nervously with a lock of his hair.

-Absolutely not! I am not going to be called that! — Ann blurted.

-That was just a suggestion. I have other ideas.

-I hope none of them suck like that one.

"That was harsh…" Ren commented mentally and looked at Ann's mask.

-That was harsh... — Morgana commented sadly.

-At least your codename isn't "the amazing talking cat!" — Ren mumbled, thinking of another code name.

-Yeah... Hey, that was the codename you were thinking of for me on that day!? — Morgana asked, irritated.

-I thought about another one, who reflects your attitude… What about Lioness? — Ren asked, avoiding Morgana's question.

-That's good, but that makes me remember… You know…

-Oh! Hm… Tigress? — Ren asked.

-That's better, but maybe something with more impact… — Ann commented. — Something better than just a little cat…

-What about Lynx? Panther? Cheetah? Leopard?

-Hmm… Repeat again. — Ann asked.

-Lynx? Panther…

-There. Hm… "Panther" …Why not "Panther"? I like the way "Panther" sounds! — Ann said excitedly.

-Hm? Why? — Ryuji asked.

-'Cause it sounds more… ferocious? — She said unsure.

-That sounds more like a question. — Ren commented.

-Ren!

-Hey, I get what you said. It sounds more powerful, impacting, threatening, and sensual, like the feline. — Ren said with both hands raised.

-I like it, except for the sensual part… — Ann commented, embarrassed.

-She's a cougar…! — Morgana commented, remembering the feline.

-Mona! Don't call me that! — Ann said, embarrassed and irritated.

-Why…

-That was rude, man… You shouldn't call any woman by that… — Ryuji scolded the cat.

-Sorry! It wasn't my intention. — Morgana said in shock.

-Now, we need to focus on the most important thing now: Kamoshida…! — Ann said seriously, changing the subject.

-Yes. Now then, everyone remembers the plan? — Ann, Ryuji, and Morgana nodded in affirmative. Ren looked at them. — From now, there's no turning back.

-It's the game time from this point forward. I'll teach the basics of infiltrating a Palace as we go. Everyone, be careful. — Morgana said.

-The mission has started! — Ren said.

They walked to the infiltration point when a light called Ren's attention. To his surprise, a door suddenly appeared and Justine was on the side of the door. The door by its own open. Ren looked to her and waiting for his friends to take more distance, he asked her:

-Why are you here? — He asked.

-My master would like a word with you.

-I see…

I'll be there now. "So, that is an access point to the Velvet Room..."

Ren went to the door and went inside.

—

Velvet Room

Between Mind and Matter

At the same time

—

Ren was once again in the Velvet Room. He saw Caroline and Justine waiting for him, as well as Igor. Reaching the cell door, the twins turn to Igor in synchrony and take their position as guards.

-The prisoner Ren Amamiya has returned. — Caroline announced to Igor. He grinned even more after seeing Ren.

-Well done. It seems you have remembered my words… — Igor said to Ren, who just nodded his head. — You truly make it worth rehabilitating you.

"I never asked for this, but…"

-What does that mean…? — Ren asked. Igor chuckled.

-I am not attempting to withhold information from you. The essence of the rehabilitation that you must complete will be explained in due time.

"At least, most of it…" Ren thought.

-Once you encounter friends who share your aesthetics and discover your place in reality… Only then, will I explain it all.

"Strange… For a brief moment… I saw him expecting something from me… something… I can't describe now…"

- And when will this day come? — Ren asked.

-Such a day should not be far off.

Ren thought about Igor's words for a moment and remembered his reason to come to the Velvet Room.

-Why did you ask for me? What do you want this time?

-This time, I wish to introduce you to the aid we are providing.

-Aid…? You mean…

-Due to your potential in wielding the power of the wild card, you can handle more than one Persona. That power holds infinite possibilities. We will assist you in nurturing that potential.

-How?

-…To that end, we must execute your Persona.

-What!? Execute!? — Ren asked, surprised. Igor chuckled again.

-Do not be alarmed. Personas are personalities that exist within you… Thus, you will only be discarding old personalities to have them be reborn as new ones.

-I understand… Like a changing of thoughts, of preferences.

-Exactly. By discarding your old identity, you give way to a new one. Hence, we call that process "execution." Think of it as the fusion of your Personas.

"That is a strange way to evolve… He said to think of this as a way to fuse Personas… But is it necessary to execute Personas? There is a lot I don't know yet… It's going to be easier to understand when I find someone with the same power as me."

-Now then, let us try an actual Persona fusion. — Igor said with a deep and cold voice.

Ren imagined his Personas, and with the thought of calling them, they appeared in his mind.

"Arsène… Bicorn… and Pixie… What should I choose?"

Ren thinking, he chooses Arsène.

-Arsène…

Arsène appeared in the Velvet Room, surprising Ren.

"Impressive."

-Now before you select the second Persona, allow me to tell you something greatly important. — Igor said.

-Okay.

-Do you remember how I mentioned forming bonds with Confidants? — Igor asked. Ren nodded in affirmative. — Personas are the power of the heart... The stronger those bonds, the stronger your Personas will be. In other words, the effect of your bonds on execution… or fusion, if you will, is quite substantial. When you share its arcana with one of your bonds, it gains great power.

"So, if I have a bond with someone with a specific arcana, that increases the new Persona's power… So, if the bond becomes stronger, the more powerful the Persona can become… That is useful info…"

-This will be a guiding principle for your forays into fusion… Try not to forget it. Moreover, there is one thing I must warn you about. You cannot create a Persona that surpasses your current level. This is because the resulting Persona would be too powerful for you to handle effectively.

"That's obvious… I can't handle something more powerful than me… Better write that later…"

-Now then, check the fusion results and choose a Persona that suits your stature.

Ren chooses Pixie as the second Persona. She appeared as well. Ren saw a new Persona surging, showing the result of the fusion of Arsène and Pixie.

-This is the form your new Persona is expected to take after fusion. When fusing a new Persona, you can select skills for it to inherit from the base Personas. By making use of this, you will be able to grant Persona skills they normally could not obtain. But of course, there's no need to think about that now. For the time being, select whichever you want.

"So, there are a lot of benefits of doing that… Better write all of that later…" Ren looked to Arsène. "By the way, I don't want to do this, but I need to. Are you okay with this, Arsène?"

Hmph. Don't worry about me, I'm your main Persona, your signature representation. You always can call me back. That worry about me it's useless…

"I see… But thank you. You helped me a lot, even for a brief moment."

Very well. Now do what you need to do, Ren.

-I want to fuse Arsène and Pixie. — Ren said, trying to stay cold.

-The result is Agathion. Now choose the skills you wish to inherit.

Ren saw the available skills.

-I want to inherit Zio.

-Are you certain this Persona is acceptable? — Igor asked.

-Yes. Go ahead. — Ren answered.

-Very well. Twins make the execution.

Arsène walked out of Ren's cell, went into the courtroom area. He turned to Ren, looking straight into his eyes.

-I am Arsène—the other you who exists within… Though I may disappear this moment, I shall always be at your side.

-Okay… "Arsène… Thank you for reminding me, we're always together…"

Do not worry, after all, I am thou, and thou art I. — Arsène said in Ren's mind.

-We shall meet again… when your fate reaches its conclusion. — Arsène said and laughed. Ren laughed as well, seeing the irony in that situation. Pixie appeared as well and Ren looked at her.

-Do not worry… I'm one of many manifestations of the human's souls, I always exist through the time flow of life's existence. I'm ready to sacrifice my own life for you. — She said to Ren.

-Thank you… — Ren stared at the twins. — You two can do it.

The twins prepared the Personas and two huge guillotines appeared. The Personas, now wrapped by a blue velvet cloth and chained by the twins, are now prepared in the guillotines, waiting for their death. The blades, emanating a blue light while in the middle of the blade, the Velvet Room logo and the blade wire, started to get lifted, reaching the top of the structure. The twins at the same time, unlock the chains, making the blades fell down and cut off the Personas heads, leaving to be a physical manifestation and becoming essences, flew to the front of the guillotines, merging and becoming a new Persona.

-I'm Agathion. — The Persona said to Ren.

-Hello.

-I'm gonna be your mask now! Use me, use me, use me! — Said the Persona.

-All right, all right. I'll use you.

Agathion took the form of Ren's mask and flew through his face. Ren feels the power of Agathion started to awaken.

-Behold. Now your Persona is going to awaken the hidden power granted by your Confidants bond…

Ren felt Agathion power level up. He feels the new Persona gain a new skill.

"So, that power of the bonds… It's still weak, but I can strengthen that power until the ultimate limit. What other bonds can I forge…?" Ren thought.

-Ah, how impressive… A stronger Persona has been born from the body and blood of the old. It shall be your new strength. — Said Igor.

-What does that mean in fact? Honestly, that makes no sense at all. — Said Ren.

-Its worth will be made clearer when you return to the field of battle. — Justine explained.

-I see… What should I do? — Ren asked.

-Gather Personas, and bring them here. Gather a great many, execute them, and continue to give birth to even stronger Personas. Developing your powers as such will play an integral role in the stand against ruin.

-Okay. Is there anything else I need to know?

-Yes. If your rehabilitation goes well, we have a variety of rituals to choose from regarding executions. — Justine said, turning to Ren.

-And depending on the effort you put in, our master might consider further development of new rituals. — Caroline finished the explanation. — Now cry your tears of joy, Inmate!

Ren smiled at the provocation.

-If you say so… "As if I'm going to cry for that…!" — Ren answered. Caroline grunted, making Ren contain himself to not laugh. "There is something that bothers me in this whole story, especially those two…"

-Your heart is steadily gaining the strength of rebellion. It seems your rehabilitation is proceeding smoothly—a joyous fact, indeed… — Igor said looking into Ren's eyes and the teenager didn't show any emotion in his eyes.

-I see… — That was Ren's only answer.

-In anticipation of this, I have prepared a gift for you. I hope that you shall accept it.

-I'm very grateful.

Ren felt his bond with Igor deepened, as a new power started to awake inside him. To his surprise, he started to see beyond his limitation, seeing things he normally had to look at with more attention to find it. After quickly figuring out how to use it, Ren deactivated the new power he received.

-What was that? — Ren asked Igor.

-That is a thief's skill, allowing one to tap into their sixth sense and see what is hidden in the dark. That ability is called Third Eye. — Igor explained.

"Huh, I got a new ability… This will be very useful for both the infiltration and the trial. Better write this down as well."

-I believe you can handle it now. May you continue devoting yourself to further rehabilitation.

-Okay…

-…Now then, if you have any requests, we will heed them. — Justine said. Ren looked back at her.

-Can I ask something? Can I summon old Personas? — He asked Justine.

-Yes, you can summon Personas, Inmate, for a price that is. — Caroline replied.

-A tribute is necessary to summon the Persona you want. — Justine explained.

-I want to summon Arsène back.

-Very well, the tribute is 2,121 yens.

-I'll pay for it.

Justine nodded and Arsène was summoned. The Persona laughed at Ren's face.

-Did you miss me?

Ren smirked and didn't answer, just calling Arsène with a nod of his head. The Persona turned into his mask and flew in his direction.

-Do you need something more — Justine asked.

-No, thank you. I want to go back.

-Okay, but don't be so sure that you are going to get special treatment, Inmate. Now you can go. — Caroline said. Ren sighed heavily and nodded his head, turning to the door on the wall. — Go back and enjoy your break!

Ren stopped walking and nodded again to her. After that, he went back to the Kamoshida Palace.

—

Metaverse

Kamoshida Palace

Main Entrance

—

Ren was back to the Metaverse. He noticed that he was now wearing his Phantom Thief outfit.

"Velvet Room… The place that reflects the heart condition of a person…"

He heard footsteps and to Ren's surprise it was Ann, Morgana, and Ryuji walking in his direction.

-Something wrong? You were just standing around all of a sudden. — Morgana asked, worried about Ren.

-Why're you spacin' out like that? — Ryuji asked worriedly too.

"For them, I wasn't moving… A place between mind and matter…"

-I'm sorry, I was lost in my thoughts. — Ren lied.

-I see… It's kinda hard to tell what you're thinkin' sometimes. — Ryuji commented.

-Let's just say he's a man of high caliber. — Morgana said.

-But I'm one. — Ren answered, and Morgana grinned with his answer.

-We're counting on you, Joker!

-I'm counting on all of you too. Don't worry about me, okay? Now, you all remember the plan, correct? — They nodded in affirmative. — Okay, now we need to start from the previous point we stopped.

-So, where is it? — Ryuji asked.

-The safe room we found. It's on the first floor of the west building. — Morgana said.

-Exactly. We start from there. It's close to the infiltration point. — Ren answered.

-Saferoom…? — Ann asked, confused.

-It'll make sense when you see it. Welp, let's head out! — Ryuji said excitedly.

-Okay, let's go.

Before they walked to the infiltration point, through the depths of the castle. Ren stopped and quickly looked to the Velvet Room door and looked back to his friends. He saw Justine looking at him.

"They can't see it… At least I don't have to worry about that…" Ren started to think about Igor's words. "That strength… the will of rebellion… is that enough for me to go beyond…?" Ren sighed "Sometimes I wanted to be like my mentors… For now, I am not allowed to think about that, I need to make a safe route and get all the evidence I can gather. I can't make mistakes at this point. It's showtime."

Ren nodded to Justine and arrived at the infiltration point. Once they entered, the group headed to the safe room fighting against the Shadows in the way, walking on the corridors, and finally able to arrive at the safe room. Entering before the guard saw them, the place reacted to their presence, showing the lack of distortion in the place.

-Hey, what's with this room!? — Ann asked surprised after seeing the place changing.

-It's a gap in cognition. A safe room, if you will. — Morgana said.

-Yeah, still not getting it. — Ann said, more confused.

-Right? — Ryuji asked and Ann nodded in response.

-To simplify, it is a place where Kamoshida doesn't have much influence, a blind spot where Shadows can't find us. — Ren explained.

-It's what Joker said, I guess… — Ryuji answered.

-Huh… I didn't think a place like that existed here. — Ann said surprised. — So, what do we do in this "safe room"?

-Take a break, duh. Oh, and we talk about stuff too. — Ryuji answered.

-Huh… Those are important. I guess I'll rest for a bit too then. Let me know when we're ready to head out, Joker. — Morgana said. — Ah, the safe room discussion reminded me. This is for you.

Morgana gave Ren a small kit.

-Thank… you? — Ren said, avoiding imagining where Morgana stored the kit.

-You can only use it in the safe rooms, but when you do, it'll take all the exhaustion from our past fights! That also applies to certain items we can find during our infiltration.

-Okay. — Ren answered, making a mental note of that. — Now then, let's recap our current situation.

They sat at the table and looked at each other.

-Hey, are you sure that you're able to do the investigation in time? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes, but I still need to talk with Shiho's mom. Can I do this today Panther?

-Actually no. I asked her, but she didn't give me an answer. Maybe she doesn't want to see anyone.

-Okay… Try to convince her one more time. Say to her this is related to Shiho and I want to talk about it. I need every single piece of information to help in this trial.

-Okay, I'll talk to her tonight.

-Thanks. Any questions?

-Besides the investigation, you think the Treasure's far? — Ryuji asked.

-Didn't we just get in here? Based on how the castle looks, we still have a long way to go. — Morgana answered.

-I still can't believe a phone app took us somewhere like this. — Ann commented, surprised.

-Well, not all of us need the app, y'know… The cat can just come in on his own. — Ryuji commented.

-Our lives would be easier if we were as skillful as Mona. — Ren commented.

-I am NOT a cat! — Morgana answered.

-We know, now focus! We need to get to the Treasure and deal with the guards.

-So wait, what's the deal with those soldiers that are serving Kamoshida? — Ann asked and smiled remembering some of them. — They transform into weird monsters whenever we fight them…

-Huh? Oh, you must be talking about the Shadows. — Morgana said, seeing Ann's confusion.

-What are Shadows…? — She asked.

-Actually, Ren explained for me, but I don't get it at all. — Ryuji said. — So, what's their deal?

-I can explain it… but it'll be complicated. Do you want to hear? — Morgana asked.

-Yes, after all, Ren can simplify later. — Ryuji answered.

-Now I'm a teacher…? — Ren asked in disbelief.

-Deep inside the innermost depths of every human's heart lies their true personality—their Shadow. So, it's not that the guards are transforming into those things… Those are their actual forms. The reason they have gods like and other mythical beings is that they spawn from the human psyche.

-Wh-Whoa… — Ann said, more confused than before. — What does that mean…?

-You remember our Personas, right? — Ren asked.

-Yes…?

-Personas are the manifestation of our true selves as well. A Shadow is the same but they are different because the Persona is an acceptance of our true self when the Shadow is a reflection of our rejection of our true self.

-So, Persona's and Shadows are the same, correct? — The blonde girl asked.

-Yes. When they assume their true form when taking off their mask, their disguise.

-Now I understand, but their appearance?

-Like Morgana said they are a result of our mind, to relate with something we know or we heard about it.

-Like a character from an anime? — Ryuji asked.

-Exactly. Arsène for example is based on the character Arsène Lupin, from the book series Lupin.

-There are some comics about that too. I read it once.

-Yes. Another example is Morgana's Persona, Zorro. He is a famous fiction character from films and books.

-Now we get it. But wait, what are they doing in Kamoshida's castle, to begin with? — Ann asked.

-It seems like the distortion of the Palace draws them in. Once they're here, their forms change and they become underlings for the Palace ruler. When you think about it, the Palace ruler is just the Shadow of whoever owns the Palace... Maybe these places have something to do with the worlds in our minds or the collective unconscious…

-Oh, OK… Wait, that part doesn't make any sense! — Ryuji said, confused.

-I had a feeling you'd say that… — Morgana commented.

-I actually knew that he'd say that. — Ren commented, nodding his head. — To simplify again, the Shadows are attracted to this place as a result of the Palace ruler's power, in this case, Kamoshida. Once they are there, they become slaves, unable to get out.

-Oh…

-Imagine… — Ren stopped when he saw Ryuji's face showing his confusion, making him think of an easier way to explain. — …a bee. The ordinary bee follows the orders from the queen bee, correct? Is the same here.

-I think I get it… — Ryuji answered uneasily.

-I get it! It's a hyve system, where the minor Shadows follow the leader's orders. — Ann said relating the Ren explanation to Morgana's explanation and understanding.

-Yes, but in this case, the Shadows are a result of all human's minds, so they can be infinite, at least these ones. And Shadows, like us, are social beings, which means they can talk to us. — Ren explained.

-So, they can interact with us... — Ann said.

-Yeah, but the fact the Palace exists, the Shadows are here and our Personas are a way of manifestation of the Metaverse, simplifying, this is a concrete result of the will of the place owner, as well our Personas as a way to fight back that will.

-Now I get it! — Ann said happily. — You helped a lot.

-Now I can understand… But do we really need to know all of this? — Ryuji asked.

-Well, you don't need to think too hard about it. They're enemies, so don't let your guard down, OK? — Morgana said.

-Okay. — Ann and Ryuji answered.

-Now then, I think we can now continue. We're now rested and we need to use the time we have left to get further to the Treasure. — Ren said standing up. — Everyone's ready?

-Ready! — The others answered. All of them exited the safe room and the Phantom Thieves ambushed a distracted guard on the corridor and took the Shadows down. Once they finish the fight, they went into the next room, revealing it to be a dining room, with a lot of food and expansible decoration, also a few guards around

-We haven't explored here yet. Keep an eye out for anything suspicious as we push on.

-Got it! "With the Third Eye, finding things will be easier."

Suddenly Ren felt his head start to hurt. He put his hand on his head and nodded.

"What's happening? Suddenly I started to feel dizzy and my head hurts..."

-Are you all right, Joker? — Morgana asked.

-I'm okay, I just feel a little headache. It's not that serious.

-Okay, but if you feel the pain continue, tell us. We need everyone to stay okay.

-Got it, now then, we need to continue to explore.

—

Real World

Shujin Academy. Principal's Office

At the same time

—

Kobayakawa was looking at his copy of the contract, thinking about Ren's proposal.

I have nothing to hide. So why don't we do that?

-That cocky little punk! — He said furiously, slamming the desk.

Someone knocked on the door, surprising Kobayakawa for a moment, taking him out of his thoughts. Adjusting himself to his chair, he calmly said:

-You can enter.

Kamoshida entered the room. He looked to Kobayakawa with worry, after seeing him holding the contract.

-So, are you still reading this? — He asked, knowing the answer.

-Yes… That was a normal agreement for me, but I have my doubts…

-Do you think this is a trick?

-Yes. And I have my doubts about him wanting to solve this in court. — Kobayakawa said furious and hit the table with all his strength. — This kid is actually a problem for us!

-I know that and that's why I was going to request his expulsion. With the criminal record, giving any excuse about it is going to get it easy. Actually, is that agreement even legit?

-I don't know, but if we don't do that… —Kobayakawa sighed, irritated. — There are a few people who are suspicious about that… — Kobayakawa stared at Kamoshida and sighed again. — Sit down, there is no reason to stand around.

Kamoshida sat in front of Kobayakawa.

-So, what have you decided?

-Yes, I'm going to call her. I was just waiting for you. — Kobayakawa picked up the phone and pressed a sequence of numbers he was seeing in his agenda. — We just need to wait for her to answer.

A few seconds passed and on the other side of the line, Kobayakawa heard a feminine voice.

-Hello?

-Miss Niijima?

-Principal Kobayakawa? Is everything okay? — The woman asked.

-Yes. I called you for another reason.

-And what is it?

-I need your help, more specifically legal counsel. Can you come here to Shujin? So, we can talk about it calmly.

-Okay. I'll be there in a few minutes.

-Thank you very much. I'll be waiting.

Kobayakawa finished the call and with Kamoshida they waited for Niijima.

-You sure about this? — Kamoshida asked.

-I'm sure. If someone can solve this, it is Sae Niijima. She's going to help us.

After an hour, Sae arrived, knocking on the door. Kobayakawa stood up and walked to the door and opened it.

-Thank you for coming. I know you are a busy woman. — He said sincerely after seeing Sae. She shook his hand politely.

-Don't worry, I have some time before going back to work. Can I come in?

-Of course. Please sit here.

Sae and Kobayakawa sit in their respective chairs. Remaining always calm and cold, Sae asked:

-What is your reason for asking for my help?

-Well, you see… — Kobayakawa picked the contract on the desk and showed it to Sae. — I received an agreement today. In fact... — Kobayakawa pointed to Kamoshida. — We received this agreement from a student of ours and a prosecutor named Sokuzen.

-And you want me to check it. — She said calmly.

-Yes. If you please.

-Of course. — She took the contract from Kobayakawa and started to read the document. — So, who offered that contract?

-One of our students. He reunited us and offered a deal.

-What type of deal?

-He claimed his right to defend himself. He wants to solve this in court.

Sae stopped to read, looking at Kobayakawa.

-He offered a deal to solve this in court? That's unusual. I never heard about this before. At least nothing like this. — She commented.

-That's why I called you. We think this agreement is fake.

-I see… — She started to read back the contract. — Can you tell me why he requested this?

-He and the other two students' expulsion was requested by one of the teachers, more specifically, Mr. Kamoshida is the one who requested their expulsion.

-They are a threat to that institution. That's why I was going to request this. — Kamoshida explained.

-I see, but as far as I can see, there is nothing wrong. Can you tell me more about them?

-Ryuji Sakamoto, he's one of them. He has in his records lots of penalties due to his attitude in school, threatening teachers, refusing to obey them. That's a sad thing because he was a great star from the track team. The other was transferred recently. His name is Ren Amamiya. He got a criminal record. The third one is Yuuki Mishima. He threatened me, and I have a suspicion they made a girl try to kill herself recently.

-Suzui. I heard about her from my sister about that now. Is that the reason?

-Yes, but he felt insulted by that and claimed the right to defend himself. For that, he convinced us to sign these papers. — Kobayakawa explained and sighed irritated. — But I'm sure this is fake. That is only a way to distract us.

-I've already called the police and informed them about these students, but the police decided to investigate in May due to the subway accidents. — Kamoshida said.

-So we called you. We think this is just a way for him to avoid getting arrested. — Kobayakawa said.

-If he really wants to escape for that. — Sae commented.

-What? — Both Kobayakawa and Kamoshida asked.

-As far as I'm reading this, I saw two names. Sokuzen is an influential prosecutor and the fact he's here is already a big deal, but the name Katsuo Hana is the one who caught my attention. That person is a very influential Judge who signed and legitimate this contract. And there more, the way this contract was made, is according to the norms of the Japanese legal system. Moreover, I even found some traces from the US norms. This document is authentic in fact, there is no doubt about that.

Kobayakawa was sweating nervously after hearing that.

-That means, he… — Kobayakawa said in disbelief.

-Yes, he just not only wants to do this, but the lawyer who wrote this was very specific about the terms. He actually hired someone really good, with a great knowledge of the law, maybe someone who even works overseas. Obviously, the terms are fair, and without giving advantage to him and for you two. And there's more.

-There's more? What more did he ask? — Kobayakawa asked,

-To simplify, both sides cannot intervene in the investigation of the police, defense and prosecutor, and can't threaten each other or the people involved. As well this has to be solved before May. That was a request from him. — Sae explained.

-Obviously, he wanted to bring this before the board meeting. Before the board members can discuss their expulsion. — Kamoshida noted.

-Yes. Not only that, if one of the sides disturb the running of the investigation and/or the trial, they are going to respond with serious charges about their actions and other terms. This was made technically flawless. It is rare to see such an agreement so well made like that… — Sae commented.

-So, we are going to do this… We actually fell for a trick. — Kamoshida said disappointed with himself.

-Don't worry. This lawyer is no match for me, that's why you called me as well, right? — Sae asked.

-Yes. We only can count on you.

-I'm glad for your faith in me. But be careful, there is a small chance they'll win.

-There's no worry, they are guilty after all.

-Okay, I'm going to open the trial and submit this as evidence. We need all the evidence we have to counterattack.

-Okay we are waiting for the trial date. Thank you for your time. — Said Kobayakawa shaking Sae's hand.

-That was nothing. I'll keep you two informed. For now, bye.

Saying that Sae stood up and left the room and Kamoshida stood up as well.

-I need to train the volleyball team.

-Okay. Just don't worry about it. Do your best and our volleyball team will be champions again.

-I will. — Kamoshida said with a huge smile. — I will see you later.

Kamoshida left the office. Kobayakawa looked at the place, thinking about what happened today. He took the phone and dialed a number.

-Ren Amamiya… You're going to regret standing against us...! — Kobayakawa said, waiting for the call.

Kamoshida walking to the gymnasium closed his fist in anger.

-You're gonna pay for that insult Amamiya! — Said Kamoshida.

—

Metaverse

Kamoshida Palace

At the same time

—

The four thieves went into the end of the corridor, ready to get into the depths of the castle, where the security was high with several guards around the corridors and the rooms. Morgana pulled Ren's jacket, calling his attention.

-We have no idea what awaits us ahead… Here, you'd better take these.

Morgana gave a few items to Ren who just nodded his head.

-These fine tools have my seal of approval! Use them wisely, all right?

-All right…

"How does he manage to carry around those items? That is an answer I don't want to know."

Opening the door silently and discretely, Ren checked the new room, which was a dining hall, and made a signal that the entrance was clear. Once inside Ren climbed the near shelf and looked at the area to identify how many Shadows are protecting the place.

-Two of them. That'll be easy.

Going down, Ren hid behind a pillar and threw a smoke bomb to distract the guard close to him. Once the smoke bomb exploded creating a distraction, Ren jumped on the guard whose back was exposed and Ren ripped his mask off his face. Three Pixie's appeared and the battle started with Ren shooting one of them, being followed by the others. Morgana took the other two down.

-Now, an All-Out Attack!

The All-Out Attack was performed and the Shadows were killed. Suddenly the other guard revealed his true form, becoming a pair of small humanoid plant-like, with the top of their heads shaped like a flower. Ren called Arsène which hit one of them with the Eiha Skill. The other jumped on Morgana to attack but he dodged and pulled his slingshot killing the weakened Shadow. The other Shadow attacked Ann who dodged as well and Ryuji shot the Shadow with his shotgun, ending the battle.

-We wiped them out! That was incredible Skull! — Morgana praised.

-Thanks.

Ren stretched his neck and looked around. Searching over the place he found some hidden treasures he quickly slipped into his bag. After that, he went to the corridor where a guard was watching. Taking him down as well, the guard becomes a trio of the same Jack-O-Lantern heads who attacked him when he awakened his Persona. Morgana killed one of them with his slingshot at the same time Ryuji hit another with Captain Kidd's Zio Skill, inflicting a paralysis in the enemy. Ann shot the third one to death and the last one died due to the damage caused by the Zio Skill. After that, they went to another corridor which was also protected by a Shadow.

-Whoa-there's one here too. — Morgana whispered.

-What'd we do? — Ryuji asked.

-Okay, now that we've expanded our roster, let's try that thing!

-What're you scheming this time, Mona? — Ren asked.

-A way for us to gain an advantage during a battle. It's called "Batom Pass". I'll show you what I mean while we deal with this Shadow.

-Got it. Leave him to me.

Ren jumped on the Shadow and ripped off his mask. The Shadow disoriented revealed his true form, showing one of each Shadows which appeared before and the Phantom Thieves surrounded them.

-Okay, I'll show you an example first. You all better watch closely. Zorro! Garu!

Zorro appeared and hit the Shadow with the Garu Skill, killing the Jack-O-Lantern head Shadow.

-Now we have an opening. Use this opportunity to Baton Pass and swap your turn with someone else! Now take the lead Joker!

-A trade? Got it!

Joker took the lead and shot Pixie at the right, knocking her down.

-Now, give the Baton Pass a try! When you use it, you become even stronger.

-Okay. Skull, the turns are yours! — Ren said, passing the lead to Ryuji.

-All right! Captain Kidd! Zio!

Ryuji killed the Bicorn with a critical hit.

-Panther, end this! I am passing to you!

-Okay.

Ryuji passes the lead to Ann.

-Carmen, use Agi on that Shadow!

Without any effort, Carmen killed the Shadow using Agi.

-Now guys! An All-Out Attack!

Everyone attacked the Pixie mercilessly and destroyed the enemy.

-OMG! We're awesome!

After that, the area went back to normal.

-Great teamwork everyone! I knew you guys would nail it. — Morgana said proudly.

-Excellent work everyone, let's keep up the great work. — Ren said proudly as well.

-Improving yourselves is important, but learning to fight as a team is just as vital to our survival. By coordinating our efforts, we can take control of the battle as often as possible. Baton Pass will help a lot with that!

-That'll be very useful. You guys heard Mona. Let's do our best together. — Ren said.

-Let's! — Ann and Ryuji said.

Going to the end of the corridor, they went to a partially damaged spiral staircase. They went upstairs to the second floor, going into another corridor which was also protected by a Shadow.

-Damn… There's one here too… Those guys never stop appearing!? — Ryuji whispered furiously and sighed tiredly. — Oh well… Guess we just gotta ambush it from behind again…

-Well sure… if you want to go about it the orthodox way. — Morgana commented.

-And it's not possible to ambush him since he's too far. He will hear us coming at him and react before we could reach him. — Ren noticed.

-Not we can do it in a stylish way! — Morgana said excitedly.

-What's your plan? — Ren asked.

-See those sofas on the sides of the hallway? — Morgana asked and Ren nodded in affirmation. — We can hide there and use them to get close to the enemy.

-Let me guess: We can use them as a blind spot.

-Exactly! Once it's in range, jump on it and rip its mask off!

-Sounds easy.

-Whoa… That does sound pretty damn cool… — Ryuji commented, surprised.

-Hey! This isn't a movie! — Ann said more surprised than Ryuji.

-I know, but since we can use their cognition as our favor that'll be fine. With Joker's poise, he could manage to do this. Give it a try.

-Okay… — Ren sighed. "She's right, it's not a movie, but it doesn't hurt to try… Now then I need to wait…"

Ren hid behind the sofa and approached silently, waiting for the Shadow to turn around and walk away to take cover. Once he was able to get there, he looked at the enemy looking around confused.

"It worked! Now I need him to get back to his work and…"

The Shadow started to walk again and Ren waited for him to turn again. Once the enemy turned back, Ren attacked and ripped off the Shadow mask. With Ann, Ryuji and Morgana, Ren defeated the enemy fast.

-Piece of cake. — Ren commented.

-Sweet That totally works! —Ryuji commented with a huge grin.

-That was so cool! They totally can't spot us while we're hiding! — Ann said happily.

-That's right. As long as we lay down like that, enemies won't be going to notice us. Whenever we hide, we can take our time preparing for the next ambush!

"That makes me wonder… How much we can manipulate the cognition of the Shadows to our advantage…" Ren wondered and then said: — Yeah but we still have a long way to go.

Going forward in the corridor, he saw and ambushed another Shadow. They knocked all of them down and surrendered them. Ren walked towards the humanoid flower girl Shadow with his gun pointed at her.

-…W-Wait! I don't want to die yet!

-I'll spare you if you lend me your power.

-You wanna talk! As if! I won't lend my power to someone that's super lame.

"Am I a joke to you!?" Ren asked mentally, avoiding killing the Shadow.

-Don't doom all of us and listen to his proposal. — Said the Pixie.

-You should listen to your friend. — Ren said.

-She's not my friend. And why do you carry something like that with you anyway? — The Shadow pointed to Ren's gun. — You carry a gun because you think it'll make you more popular with the girls?

"Since when does showing a gun to a girl make a guy popular?" Ren thought, perplexed, which made Arsène laugh.

-It's not to impress a girl. It's for my own self-improvement.

-Whaaat? — The Shadow said surprised. — Then improve yourself with martial artist or the yakuza, not a delicate girl like me.

She doesn't look so delicate… — Arsène commented. Ignoring his Persona's comment, Ren looked at the Gallow Flower girl.

-My deepest apologies. That wasn't my intention.

-All right, I get it. You didn't really mean to approach me, right? When it came right down to it, you couldn't do anything to me.

With a huge smile on his face, Ren approached the Shadow to everyone's surprise, making the Gallow Flower girl squeak in surprise.

-So, what do you want me to do? — Ren said, touching her cheek and rubbing gently, making the flower girl smile.

-C'mon, at least, like, try and guess what I might want! Like now…

-You're beautiful, you know that?

-Everyone says that to me you know? Although you kinda remind me a bit of myself… Wait, I remember now. Talking to you made me remember something.

-What did you remember?

The Shadow's aura changed to blue and she looked at him.

-I'm not a Shadow that belongs here. I used to be in the humans' sea of souls.

-What is your name? — Ren asked.

-I'm Mandrake. I mean, I'm you, after all, so let's hope we get along!

-I'm sure we will.

Mandrake became Ren's mask and flew in his direction. After getting a new Persona Ren looked at his friends, who looked at him perplexed.

-What? — Ren asked.

-Dude, what the hell was that? — Ryuji asked.

-I was flirting with her.

-You were flirting with a Shadow!? — Ann and Morgana yelled. Ren laughed.

-Can you blame me?

Ann groaned.

-Thank goodness you didn't do that to me.

Ren smirked.

-I was just teasing her. I'm not too desperate, y'know?

You are evil, you know that? — Mandrake said.

"I'm not evil, just a little too teasing sometimes." Ren mentally answered.

-Dude… Please don't do that again. — Ryuji begged.

-I'll try.

-By the way, what was that? — Ann asked.

-That's my power, I can use multiple Personas. That's the power of the Wild Card.

-I see… Well, let's keep going.

Resuming their infiltration, they reached the end of the corridor and went into another room, this time the room was a simple one, with a single table with some type of book and surrounded by pillars. Bars between each pillar are blocking the access.

-Look! There's somethin' over there! — Said Ryuji.

-Obviously, but the way to get there is blocked. — Ann commented.

-It has to be important to protect this in that way. There's got to be a way to get in and out of there. — Ren commented.

-Joker, do you think you can solve the mystery of this room? — Morgana asked.

-Sure, I can. "With the Third Eye, that's possible."

Looking at the goat's head on some pillars, Ren used the Third Eye, confirming one of them can unlock the place. Pulling the chain of one of the heads, the eyes suddenly turn off. To Ren's surprise, the bars don't disappear.

-Strange… I pulled one of the goat heads, and it didn't open the door. — He commented.

-Maybe the others will do the trick. — Ryuji said, pulling the other head chain.

-Skull no!

Ryuji, after pulling it, activated a trap, summoning a few Shadows over the room.

-A trap!? — He commented surprised.

-Obviously it's a trap, Joker warned you! — Morgana yelled at Ryuji.

-No way! We're surrounded! — Ann said, trying to run away.

-Our only option is fightin'! Let's tough it out, guys! — Ryuji said, attacking one of them after they changed to their true form.

-Be careful everyone, we need to stay alive and safe! — Ren said. He saw the Shadow divided into two groups, the first was composed of two Bicorns and a Pixie. — Skull, attack one of the Bicorns at the same time as me, okay?

-Got it!

Avoiding the Bicorns attack, Ren and Ryuji at the same time used the Zio skill, knocking down the Bicorns. Ann was hit by the Pixie and she retaliated the attack using Agi, killing the Shadow. The second group tried to surround them, but the Phantom Thieves managed to avoid the trap. Morgana and Ryuji tried to attack, but the enemies dodged before and counterattacked them. Ryuji dodged the attack and killed one of the Shadows as Morgana managed to kill the other Shadow, ending the battle.

-That was your fault Skull. — Morgana yelled, upset.

-Hey, there's no way I could've known it was a trap! — Ryuji answered.

-Skull's right. After all, it's my fault. — Ren said calmly.

-Joker…

-None of you know what is a trap or not, and I should have been more careful and warned all of you before. I promise that's not going to happen again.

-Okay, I'm sorry… — Morgana said, still upset.

-Sorry too… I should've waited before pulling the chain. — Ryuji said, disappointed.

-Now, where did we stop? — Ren asked.

-We're looking for a solution to this. — Morgana answered.

-Okay, just give me a sec.

Ren used the Third Eye again, looking over the place once more. This time he saw the other two goat heads, seeing the right one was actually going to open the way.

-Got it.

Running to the other side of the room, he pulls the chain of the left head. The bars lift up, unblocking the way to the inner part of the room.

-Whoa… — Ryuji commented, surprised.

-As expected from you Joker. — Morgana commented proudly.

-Okay, let's see what this place is actually protecting.

Walking to the inner area of the room, they saw the document lying on the table. Looking closely, Ren recognized what that document was a few seconds later.

-What the hell? He had it all locked up and shit, but it was just some old map…? — Ryuji asked, confused after seeing the map.

-Is not just any old map, look at it carefully. — Ren suggested. Ryuji looked at the map one more time and after a minute he just gave up, shrugging.

-I don't see anything important in it. — He commented.

-You're hopeless… — Morgana commented.

-What did I do? — Ryuji asked.

-Except you didn't notice this is the map of the Palace, you did everything. — Morgana said annoyed

-And they say I'm the sarcastic one… — Ren commented. — As Mona said, this is a map, with a top view of all the Palace, with which we can now see the Treasure's location.

-And that makes our job in making the infiltration route easier. — Morgana said happily about their finding.

-That's great! Now, can you see where the Treasure is? — Ann asked.

Ren looked at the map and noticed something that brought the cat's mood down.

-Well, it looks like the map is actually…

-...The map looks incomplete. — Morgana completed the phrase. — There are some sections that are missing…

-So we need to continue our search. We'll eventually find another part of the map. — Said Ryuji.

-You're right Skull. That's the only thing we can do. — Ren saw the map again. — Looking here, this is the corridor we need to use to reach the other side of the Palace… We're going back to the Main Hall to get access to the east side. Once we're here, we'll need to explore that whole area of the Palace. Now then, let's go.

They exited the saferoom and went to the corridor that leads straight back to the Main Hall. Defeating the Shadows there, they reached the Main Hall but the passageway was blocked.

-Blocked…

Ren looked around and saw a small platform above the upper part of the hall that leads to the wall ledges that were on the same level as the chandeliers of the Main Hall. Noticing the chandeliers forming a path straight to the other side of the hall, he searched for a way to get to the platform, seeing the bookshelf under one of the platforms.

-Follow me!

Climbing the bookshelf, Ren reached the platform and reached the ledges followed by the others. Carefully, but quickly, they reached one of the chandeliers. Ren saw another Shadow on the next chandelier, but he managed to take him down with the group. After that, the group jumped to the last chandelier and arrived at the other side of the hall, going to the next room. Once there Ren saw a chest box with a lock.

-A Treasure's here, but it's locked. Thankfully we have at least one lockpick. — Ren used the lockpick and opened the box, assisted by the others. After opening it he saw two things inside.

-That's great! An armor. That's going to be useful. — Ren commented.

-Yes. Now… — Morgana looked around noticing something. — I feel a lack of distortion. There's a safe room… Here.

Morgana pointed to a door on the left of the room.

-Let´s go inside to change equipment and recover.

They entered the safe room, who reacted to their presence.

-Sweet, we can not only use this but come back anytime! — Ryuji said happily.

-Yeah, by the way, Morgana, can we get a shortcut to the safe rooms around here? — Ren asked while changing his equipment, wearing the night watch armor.

-Actually yes. When we find a safe room, a point of connection is created, creating a link between the rooms. We can use that link to access all the safe rooms we found in the past, even go back to the infiltration point, because of the lack of influence of the Palace's ruler.

-That's good. Panther, Mona, help me please. — They nodded in affirmative. — Dia!

Using the Dia skill, they healed the party.

-Thanks. — Said Ryuji. Ren just nodded in affirmation. After that, Ren checked the inventory.

-We need to use the medicine in case of an emergency when we don't have enough spiritual power to heal ourselves. We need to get back to action.

Back to the central hall side room, Ren and the others went to the east area that also was being secured by the Shadows.

-If the map's right, we still have a long way to go… — Ryuji commented while stretching himself.

-That's not all—there are an awful lot of patrolling Shadows, too… We simply can just rush into a fight. We need to ascertain how strong they are. — Morgana commented.

-And how do we do that?

-By observing the enemies actions and getting some insight into their skills.

-With my skills it will be easier to determine the enemy's power. Don't worry about it, I can do this.

Using the Third Eye skill Ren checked the Shadow's power level.

-He has the same power level as us. This'll be an easy battle.

Everyone nodded and Ren took the lead, going after the Shadow. He waited for the Shadow to leave an opening in his defense and Ren ambushed him and ripped off his mask. The thieves surprised a duo of humanoid cats wearing long boots and long flapped hats. They drew their swords ready to attack.

-Your relatives? — Ryuji provoked.

-I am not a cat Skull!

Ren laughed as he saw Morgana attack one of the Shadows furiously, weakening him enough for him to kill and weaken another one. Skull killed the one left with his shotgun. Moving forward they ambushed another Shadow, that time it was a new one this time looking like a housemaid with a troublesome attitude, but he noticed her current power using the Third Eye she was more powerful than most of the standard Shadows over the place. Morgana and Ann managed to kill her. Going upstairs they fought against another Shadow, a trio of Agathions which was quickly killed by Morgana. After that, they went to another dining room, also blocked by bars.

-Seriously… More bars…? — Ryuji asked, confused.

-But there's a way to open it, right? Like before. Look.

Ann pointed to the goat head and Ren recognized that.

-I can recognize that lever anywhere. Joker, if you please…

-Got it.

Ren pulled the lever, but nothing happened.

-Looks like we need to pull another lever. Focus.

Using the Third Eye Ren found the other level and pulled the same, opening the access to the dining room.

-Boy, there are an awful lot of bars in here for… what looks like a dining room? — Ann commented, confused.

-Looks like it… damn, does he have a fetish with prison or something? — Ren asked with disgust while checking the place. — Mona, what does the map say about this place?

-According to the map… There's a path beyond those bars there. — Morgana said, pointing to the direction they needed to go.

-Looks like they're making things tougher for us again… — Ann said, sighing.

-Eh, it shouldn't be that bad. Let's just get it done. — Ryuji said. — Joker, can you do this?

-'Course I can. — Ren looked around. — There are several levers all over this room. Let me check the place. Focus.

Ren used the Third Eye and he felt another headache, but he shook his head trying to keep his focus. Looking around he found a hidden treasure and after a minute he found the lever.

-Okay, let's pull and…

After pulling the lever, a new path was opened, but the previous path was closed in the process.

-What?

-It's a puzzle room. — Ren sighed tiredly. — I hate these places sometimes… It's supposed to be fun, but you end up frustrated when the place is ridiculously easy… Like that one. Stay behind me. I'll lead us outta here.

The thieves went to the other side of the room and Ren pulled the lever, reopening the previous path and blocking the one in the middle. Going to the small corridor, Ren unlocked the path and looked around.

-I'm sure the lever that unlocks all these bars is somewhere around here. For now, follow me. There's a ventilation shaft we can use.

-Got it.

-Don't even dare to look at my butt Skull, or I'll kick you into next week! — Ann said to Ryuji.

-As if I want to stare at your butt… Not that's too temptin' since you wearin' this outfit of yours.

"I'm not hearing this…" Ren thought himself as they went inside the ventilation shaft ignoring the blonde's annoying fight and went to the room on the other side when the group found a Treasure Chest.

-Sweet! Let's see what's inside! — Ryuji said happily.

To their surprise, they found a sooty gear, in a deplorable state.

-Eww… — Ren said, pinching the dirty gear.

-You should get this cleaned somewhere…

-I know… — Ren said, reluctantly putting the piece of cloth inside his bag. — Close to Leblanc there's a coin laundry. I'll go there later.

-That was gross… — Ann commented.

-I've dealt with worse… — Ren commented and shuddered as he was remembering the most traumatizing scene of his life.

-Somethin' says I don't want to know it… — Ryuji said.

-Now then, let's unlock the path.

Pulling the lever, the path to the other side was unblocked.

-All right! Time to move! — Morgana said.

They went forward and ambushed a Shadow. A duo of the same cats appeared again.

-I don't know their weakness. Guess we've to try everything. Zorro! Garu!

With the Garu skill, Morgana knocked down one of the Shadows.

-Ha! It's almost scary how good I am.

-Humble, he's not! — Ren commented as Morgana knocked down the other Shadow and the thieves surrounded the Shadows.

-Waaah! Save me, King Kamoshida…

-I will not kill you if you lend me your power.

-Then, let's talk! I gotta find out if you're a weird human or not!

"Am I weird? Probably." Ren thought as he pointed the gun towards the cat in boots.

-Hey, uh, so you know I'm just a little kid, right? You're s'posed to go easy on kids!

-Why should I take it easy on you? "I am really stupid. Oh well."

-Are you stupid? Did you go to school and get stupid grades?

-He's talking about you Skull. — Ann provoked.

-Shuddup! — The blonde punk answered Ann, and Ren avoided laughing at their little fight.

-You know, I'm good at PE. "I should thank the years of parkour and gymnastics."

-Your brain's a muscle, too, ya know! — The cat said, appreciating the feeling of being smart. —Hey! How come you keep coming here? I wanna know. Ain't people your age suppose'ta be out on dates and stuff instead?

-Well, I'm going on a date after this.

-Awww? Then why're you making me stick 'round here? I think you should just go on your date.

-I have something to do. — Ren answered.

-Whoa, that's the same as me… Wait, what the— I think I remembered something! — The Shadow stood up and his aura changed to blue. — You know, I'm not really a Shadow! I came from the humans' sea of souls!

-What's your name? — Ren asked.

-My real name's Cait Sith! You and I are the same, mister!

Cait Sith transformed into Joker's mask and flew at Ren's direction, which absorbed the new Persona.

-Great! — Ann celebrated.

-Nice, now we have two cats at our side. — Ryuji commented proudly.

-I. Am. Not. A. Cat! — Morgana yelled in anger, which made Ryuji grin even wider.

-Right cat…

Ren snickered discretely and explored the room, finding a Soul Drop. They entered another area that leads to a cellar. Exploring the area, they found a locked door.

-Great, it ain't opening. — Ryuji commented, annoyed. — As if that wasn't tough enough…

-Wait… I can hear a faint breeze blowing in from somewhere… — Morgana noted.

-Probably another ventilation shaft… Let me check it.

Ren used the Third Eye but he felt another headache. Ignoring the pain, he searched and found another ventilation shaft above the cellar shelves. The thieves crawled through the vent and reached the other room, which has a Treasure Chest and a guard protecting the area.

-Look, a treasure chest! Let's take whatever is in there too! — Morgana said happily.

-But there's a guard there… — Ann noted.

-And since when did that stop us? — Ren said excitedly, warming up.

-What are you going to…

Ann didn't complete her question when Ren jumped on the Shadow and ripped off his mask, ambushing him and starting the attack.

-Is he nuts!? — She asked, surprised by Ren's reckless action.

-At least he got the Shadow… — Ryuji commented, doing the same and surprising the Shadow now in the real form followed by Morgana. Ann just watched for a few seconds before saying:

-Oh well…

And Ann joined the attack and dealt some damage to the Shadow. During the fight, the Shadow became very hesitant and started to be afraid. At some point, after several attacks from Ren and Ryuji, the Shadow went into a defensive position, in fear.

-Hee-ho… I surrender! Please have mercy, ho! — Said the Shadow in fear. Ren noticed his frightened attitude.

"Shadows are like us, they are afraid of dying too… Like the first time. I can take advantage as well… But…"

-Don't worry. I let you live.

-Thank you, ho! My heart was on fire for a moment— H-hee!? I remember now, ho! I'm no Shadow here, ho! I live in the sea of the hee-human heart!

-What's your name?

-I'm Jack-O-Lantern, ho! I'm you, and you're me!

The Jack-O-Lantern became Ren's mask and flew in his direction, being absorbed by Ren.

-I didn't realize even Shadow beg for their lives… That's actually kind of surprising… — Ann commented.

-Shadows have emotions too, you know. Of course, they'll be afraid if you corner them like that. — Morgana replied. — It might be worth purposely creating such situations to get them begging for their lives.

-But, is that fair? — The blonde girl asked and Ren bowed his head thoughtfully.

"She has a point… Is that even fair?" He thought.

-As much I hate that too… I need to admit that it might be useful for us… And they'll be merciless with us if we aren't careful. Our lives are at risk here too. — Ren said coldly.

-That was cold man, but I'd agree with you. Those guys won't hesitate to follow their orders. — Ryuji said calmly.

-True. We need to use everything we have in order to fulfill our mission. — Morgana said seriously. — Besides, that might be good for us. Also, the Shadows seem to have different attitudes, too. If we take advantage of that, negotiations may go smoothly. I'll try to let you know what kind of answers the Shadows want to hear, depending on their personalities.

"In the end… We are no better than Kamoshida…" Ren sighed, lifting his head. "But I won't let this take me down. Morgana and Ryuji's right. They won't hesitate, neither will we."

Regretting your choice? — Arsène asked.

"Perhaps my friend, but I know what I was going to do since I accepted this. But unlike you though, I won't go to make sacrifices in order for my own concept of justice. I'll bring Justice in my own way, and I'll reach the truth behind all of this. That is the promise I vow to you." Ren said determinately.

Arsène laughed.

That is what I wanted to hear. Now bring them Justice and punish those blasphemous ones with all you might.

"Don't worry my friend, I will." Ren stretched himself. "Now, back to work."

-Are you alright Joker? — Morgana asked.

-I am now. Now, let's open this chest.

Ren opened the chest and found an accessory.

-I've got the feeling that this might be useful. — Morgana commented.

-Yeah…

Ren checked the accessory with the Third Eye and he was surprised to see the status of the item.

-This accessory is imbued with a skill.

-I can see that. What's the skill this accessory possesses? — Morgana asked.

-This accessory possesses the Garu skill.

-Try to use that accessory and see what happens.

-Okay.

Ren equipped the accessory and he felt the power imbued him.

-I can feel the power.

-So, it's working. All right, let's keep going.

The thieves went into the corridor and unlocked the door close to the stairs, opening the path. After that, the group went to the staircase and found the staircase had crumbled.

-Great. Just great. — Ren said furiously at the staircase.

-Looks like it's in bad shape… — Morgana commented.

-Don't tell me… — Ren said sarcastically.

-Uhhh, I don't think we're goin' any further this way… — Ryuji said, scratching the back of his head.

-Should we check somewhere else? — Ann suggested.

-Wait, look up there.

All of them looked up and saw on the stone handrail a goat head with a medal in his mouth.

-What about it? Are we throwin' a rope over that and climbin' it?

-That's a good idea if it wasn't the fact, we don't have a rope for that. — Ren noted.

-As if we need a rope for that. Phantom thieves do things a bit more stylishly than that… and I know just what'll do the trick! — Morgana said excitedly and he took from his pocket a pair of giant wristbands. — Here, let me equip this for you.

And the supernatural cat strapped the wristbands on Ren's wrists. After that, Ren adjusted the wristbands on his wrists and checked the devices.

-Good-seems it fits properly! — Morgana said proudly.

-Okay… What is this device you strapped onto me? — Ren asked, checking the device.

-That's just a little something I've been working on in secret. It's a grappling hook.

-A grappling hook… Oh! I see… "Once again, how does he make these things and how does he carry these things?" — Ren thought seeing the grappling hook on his wrists.

-The grappling hook lets you zip to hard-to-reach locations in a flash. You'll see what I'm talking about when you test it out. Go ahead, give it a try.

Ren nodded and checked the area before throwing the grappling hook and reaching the handrail, jumping into the staircase.

-Whoa! What was THAT!? You were all like, sh-shyaah! — Ryuji commented surprised.

-Wow, you really can do anything here if you think you can work hard enough! — Ann commented surprised as well.

-Heh, I knew you could do it! — Morgana said proudly.

-Hey Mona, do you have a few spare ones for Skull and Panther?

-Of course, I have! Here guys, take it.

Morgana gave Ann and Ryuji the grappling hooks and they reached the upper area. Going there, they found a powerful Shadow protecting the place.

-Yo, that guy looks like bad news. — Ryuji commented.

-Yeah, he does look pretty tough… — Morgana said, sensing his power.

-I can sense his power. He's too strong. — Ren said using the Third Eye and he felt another headache. "Not now… please…" he thought massaging his temples.

-Not only that, but it seems like he's more aware of his environment than the others. We'd better proceed with caution. — Morgana warned.

-I think it's a better idea to avoid him, but we've got to take him down. Dammit… — Ren said while he clenches his teeth in pain. "Why now…?" — Let's wait and attack him.

They waited for the Shadow to approach and Ren ambushed him and ripped off the mask from his face. The Shadow revealed his true form, becoming a knight riding a red horse. Morgana tried to shoot him without success as Ann called Carmen and used the Agi skill.

-Dammit, he's resistant to Agi!

Ren hit the knight with the Garu skill and Ryuji used the Zio skill and made him paralyzed. Morgana attacked him with his sword knocking him down, being inflicted with shock in the process.

-Surrender, or we'll attack.

-Just cuz I'm on my knees doesn't mean ya won. I can still fight!

-So, you'll die then. Now!

The thieves performed an All-Out Attack and inflicted massive damage to the Shadow, but the Shadow survived the attack.

-We couldn't finish him off? — Ren said, surprised.

The Shadow recovered from the attack and launched a strike attack at Ryuji, who dodged at the last moment. Ann attacked the Shadow and knocked him down and the thieves and inflicted even more damage, weakening the Shadow. Ren and Ryiji attacked together and knocked down the Shadow, Morgana who was shocked. The supernatural cat retreated from the battle, hiding behind a blind spot.

-Gah… I got too reckless… I'll back out and focus on support! — Morgana said.

-Got it. Let's end this! — Ren ordered and both Ryuji and Ann nodded in agreement. The Shadow attacked and lost his balance and Ann took advantage of the opening and killed the Shadow.

-Great job Panther, you wiped them out! — Morgana said proudly. — Phew… That was hairy.

-You don't say. Let me help you.

Ren gave two bottles of medicine to Morgana who promptly drank the medicine.

-Thanks. Well, I checked the map and…

-And what?

-This place is well guarded. They are hiding something here.

-So let's find out what they are hiding. Can you continue? — Ren asked.

-Yes, I can.

-Good. Everyone, get ready.

-Wait, what about that door? — Ryuji said, pointing to the door that was locked by bars. — It's locked… but there's a lever here. I'll try to pull.

Ryuji pulled the lever, but the door wouldn't open.

-Weird. It ain't openin'.

-Looks like we need a key to open it. Look at this round indentation. — Ren pointed under the goat head and they saw underneath the head a type of gold lock with a round indentation.

-It needs a key… I wonder where the key is…

-It's probably somewhere around this hall… Okay everyone, let's explore the place. — Ren ordered.

Exploring the place, the thieves ambushed a few Shadows, killing them in the process. Ren was using the third eye when he saw something that caught his attention.

-…Huh? You find somethin'? — Ryuji asked.

-Yeah. Something's off with this bookshelf. — Ren replied.

-Let's check it… Hm… "Muscle Glory"… "Macho Muscles"…

-All these books are about muscles… — Ann noted.

-For God's sake, everything here's all about being ripped. That guy's totally in love with his muscles… — Ryuji said in disgust.

-Gross… — Ann commented.

-Weird. One of the books is missing… — Ren noted. — Mona, did you sense a new safe room?

-Yes, the safe room is nearby. Let's go.

The thieves went into the safe room and recovered from their wounds as Ren took note of their progress. After they were done, they went back to the infiltration and started to explore the room in the area. Ambushing one of the Shadows in the room they fought against them and killed one of the Shadows. The two left fought against the thieves who withheld against the attacks. Knocking them down, they surrendered the Shadows, who looked like small demons with bat wings and a huge horn between their legs.

-Just help me! I swear I ain't gonna tell King Kamoshida… — The Shadow begged.

-I'll spare your life if you lend me your power in exchange.

-…Then let's talk. I can't just lend my power to some Shmoe.

"I like his attitude… Let's see how this talk proceeds." Ren thought.

-Fair enough.

-Poor thing, it looks scared to death. — Morgana commented and the Shadow laughed.

-…This shit's hilarious. Why're you so desperate?

-Because I don't want to die like you.

-Well you're fightin' me bro. If you don't want go all out, ain't no way you're gonna win. — The Shadow commented happily.

-You better behave, or I'll go all out with my gang.

The Shadow laughed.

-What a punk you are… By the way, think you could take that mask off while we're talkin'? It's pretty rude, man.

"Who is going to think he has manners?"

-My deepest apologies, I'll take off my mask right now. — Ren said and he took off his mask, putting on his head.

-Guess there's no accountin' on taste. No worries, I'm not gonna rip it off or anythin'.

-Thank you, and my sincere apologies for being rude to you.

-Huh? That means we're the same… Whoa, dude. It's all comin' back. I'm Shadow that lives here! I'm from the sea of souls of you humans!

-What's your name?

-I'm Incubus. From now on, I'm you.

Ren obtained a new Persona, but he felt the power overwhelming him.

"Looks like I reached my limit of carrying Personas. I need to release one in order to obtain a new one." Checking the list of Persona he possesses, Ren saw Jack-O-Lantern. "Jack-O-Lantern, you're free."

Thank you very much! I'll remember your kindness.

Jack-O-Lantern disappeared and Incubus took his place.

-Are you alright? — Morgana asked.

-I am okay. Let's check this place… Focus.

Using the Third Eye, Ren checked the entire bookshelf, and one of the books caught his attention.

"What is this…?" Ren asked himself as he took the book from the bookshelf.

-What's wrong? Are you curious about this book?

-That book caught my attention. Let's see… "The Queen Book"…?

-The Queen Book? Is this some kinda special book? — Ryuji asked with curiosity.

-We can just take it if that's the case. — Morgana commented.

-I feel this book will be important. — Ren said, taking the book and putting it inside his bag.

Exploring the place again, Ryuji went forward and searched for any enemies, signaling that the area was clear. Ambushing another Shadow, they surrounded the troublesome maid which was following them.

-Y-you… What are you doing here, sneaking around in the castle!? — The Shadow asked.

-That is none of your business. — Ren answered.

-How rude of you. Why are you here?

-I'm here for you. Lend me your power and I'll let you live.

-Well… We must talk things over first. I know nothing about you, after all…

-Fair enough.

The troublesome maid sighed depressed.

-She looks so depressed. Go easy on her. — Morgana suggested.

Ren nodded to Morgana and said:

-I'm listening.

-I can't quite fathom why any of this is happening. — The maid said depressed. — Care to explain yourself? I certainly hope you have a good reason for this boorish treatment.

-I do believe it is self-explanatory. There's nothing to explain.

The housemaid murmured happily.

-I'm inclined to disagree. I may be a hostage, but you still require my cooperation, yes?

-That's true. My deepest apologies for my boorish behavior.

-Apologies accepted. — The maid sighed again. — If I die here, my existence to this point would be rendered meaningless. But this way of life in this world is all I've ever known.

-There are other ways of life. You don't need to limit yourself.

-It bothers me that I cannot imagine a life outside the one I have now…

-I'm inclined to relate with you. I know how that feels. — Ren assured the maid.

-Thank you for your sympathy. Being honest with you, speaking with you shows me how similar we really are—Oh! I'm sorry, I remember now… In truth, I am not a Shadow. I originated from the humans' sea of souls.

-I see. Care to tell me your true name?

-My true name is… Silky. Henceforth, I am thou.

-And thou art I.

The Silky transformed into Ren's mask and flew in his direction, being absorbed by him in the process. Feeling the power overwhelming him again, Ren released Bicorn who went back into the sea of souls. Going to the other room, Ren checked the area and saw a Shadow guarding the place.

-What now? — Ryuji asked. Ren glanced at Ann, and he whispered something into her ear. Ren with Ryuji and Morgana took cover, at the same time Ann walked looking distracted and the Shadow appeared, stopping her and making the security level raise.

-Say your purpose. — Ordered the Shadow.

-Well… I'm lost, and I have been looking for the exit for a long time. Can you help me? — Ann said, inclining herself making a contrast to her cleavage, looking more voluptuous. The Shadow was distracted by Ann's beauty and looking at her breasts.

-Well… I don't know what to do…

-Well, I know.

Ann approaches and pushes him. Quickly the other thieves immobilized the Shadow and Ann ripped off his mask after that. They attacked him, but in the end spared the Shadow, forcing him to give his money. The Shadow runs away after the attack, saying about Kamoshida's punishment.

-Phew… Honestly, I don't want to use that tactic again… — She said tiredly.

-I doubt we have to do that again. Sorry about that. — Ren said, looking around.

-Don't worry. If I have to do that again, I'm going to do it. You know, I know how to get people's attention. — Ann said calmly.

-No doubts about that. — Ren commented to himself nervously.

-So, what were we looking? — Ryuji asked.

Ren walked to the bookshelf and saw the glowing book from earlier. Taking the book, he noticed the book's appearance was similar to the other, except the title.

-Um… "The Beefcake Book"…? — Ann asked, confused.

-What an odd title… — Ren commented on seeing the contents of the book.

-Hm… Looks like it's some weird book on bodybuilding techniques.

-Why is something like that here…? Well, I'll take it. I have a feeling we'll need this book as well.

Exiting the room, Ren checked the map and sighed heavily.

-Remember that strong Shadow protecting that room?

-Don't tell me we've to fight against him!? — Ann exclaimed.

-It seems like it…

-Aw, man… That'll be a hell of a fight… — Ryuji commented.

-But we don't have a choice. Everyone better get ready.

-Got it!

They ambushed the Shadow who assumed his true form, becoming the same knight they fought before, who promptly hit Morgana with a physical skill, taking him out of the battle. Using their Persona's the thieves managed to knock the Shadow down and perform an All-Out Attack. The Shadow hit Ann, who was almost knocked out. She healed herself with Carmen and Ryuji attacked the Shadow with Captain Kidd and Ren knocked him down using Arsène. Performing another All-Out Attack, the thieves killed the enemy.

-The Show's Over!

After healing Morgana, Ren opened the Treasure Chest, finding a mace for Ryuji.

-Ooh, that looks stronger than the one I'm usin' now! — Ryuji commented.

-Then take it. It's yours. — Ren said, giving the mace to Ryuji.

-Nice! Time to whoop some ass!

Ren laughed.

-That's our striker. Let's move.

Going to the room, they noticed that it was a library.

-Whoa, it's so musty… — Ann commented feeling her allergy attacking up.

-Yeah, looks like that place wasn't cleaned for a long time. — Ren commented as well. "It makes me remember that old attic of Leblanc."

-Definity looks fishy… — Morgana said, walking over the place.

-Whaddya mean? — Ryuji asked.

-Come on, it's a library in a castle. There has to be some kind of secret mechanism in here.

-That's cliché, but in fact, some old castles had a lot of secrets. Actually, this room should be bigger according to the map. — Ren commented while looking around while checking the map. He noticed one of the bookshelves had an open space. — Huh, there is one book missing here…

-Wait a moment… — Ryuji picked one of the books and read the title. — Let's see… "The history of Kamoshida". — Ryuji read the title of one of the books and started to read the other books' titles. — "Tracing Kamoshida's Steps", "Kamoshida's Heroism", "Kamoshida's Law"…? What the hell!? All these books are about Kamoshida.

-Wait, the books we found earlier. What if… — Ann commented.

-I thought the same thing, Panther. That is too obvious. We need to fill this space with a book related to it. — Ren said smiling. He picked up the books they got. — Hm… We are missing a book.

-Try putting one in and see what happens… — Morgana suggested.

Ren put the Beefcake Book in the open space but the book was too small to fit perfectly.

-Oh… Looks like that one's a little too small-it doesn't fit as well as the others.

-It seems like it. — Ren said, retrieving the book. — Let's check around and see if we found another book.

They started to search over the place, looking for another clue.

-Hey, I found a book. — Ann said, checking the book title. — "The King Book"…

-Can I see it? — Ren asked and Ann handed the book to Ren. — It's all about Kamoshida. Hmm…

Ren walked back to the shelf full of books about Kamoshida and inserted the King Book into space. He gave a little punch, making the book fit inside the void.

-Hm… Looks like it needs something more to reveal the secret of this room. Let's search around.

They looked around and Ann went to one of the shelves that caught her attention.

-There are all the sorts of books here… The titles don't have any rhyme or reason to them. — The whip-yielder thief noted

-Odd… — Ren commented, checking the shelfs as well. Ann looked at the book and one of them caught her attention. She picked the book and saw the title surprised.

-This book… has Shiho's name in the title…! — Ann said in shock.

-What!? — Ryuji exclaimed in shock as well.

-Wait…! It's not just this one! All of the books here are about female students!

-Does Kamoshida know no limit!? — Ren exclaimed furiously. — There's a book with your name… — Ren gulped looking at the book title and Ryuji took the book.

-"Ann Takamaki: The Charming Doll." — Ryuji read the book title perplexed. — Holy Shit…

-What the heck is this!? — She exclaimed furiously.

-What. The. Fuck. Was. That!? — Ren exclaimed, as he finally lost his cool. — That…

The thieves looked at him surprised as their leader tried to regain his cool.

-Sorry for that. I shouldn't have said that. — Ren said, ashamed.

-Relax dude. Also, language.

-You going to scold him about language since you say almost every single curse in the dictionary except for fuck? — Ann asked.

-Lady—

-Panther. — Ren corrected Morgana who was surprised that Ann said the curse word.

-I'm sorry if my mom taught me to not say the eff word. — Ryuji said, annoyed.

"How considerate of him…" The thieves thought.

-Well, let's try to insert this book there.

Ren inserted the Queen Book in the space and the book fitted perfectly. He also gave a small punch to make the book fit.

-One book left… Let's keep looking at the shelves to look for a space. Ren noticed one bookshelf with a space and started to read the book titles.

-All the titles are about people's names too. Hm… Odd… Some of them are familiar…

-Wait a minute! These're the names of the volleyball team members! — Ryuji exclaimed

-Not only that. Look, your name is here too! — Morgana noted. — "Ryuji Sakamoto: The Vulgar Ape." — Morgana read the book title about Ryuji he had in his hands. — There's one here for Skull.

-That bastard! Who the hell does he think he is!? — Ryuji asked furiously.

-Maybe a king, but not a very loved one. — Ren commented sarcastically. — Hey, there is a book about me?

-Yes. — Morgana said, seeing the book with Ren's name. Ren quickly picked up and read it.

-"Ren Amamiya: The transfer scum." — He sighed trying to keep his cool. — He has a lot of nerve to think about me in that way. — Ren was contained, but his eyebrows were slightly twitching in anger.

-What the hell!? All the titles are boys of our school! — Ryuji exclaimed with irritation.

-Well… I've got some bad news… The book we possess doesn't fit here. One book is missing. — Ren said.

-Dammit…!

-But where does this book belong…? — Morgana asked. Then as a switch flipped, Ren took the map and checked once again.

-There's one room we haven't checked yet. And according to the map, there's a hidden area as well. And there's one bookshelf in the corridor.

-Ugh… The muscle bookshelf… — Ryuji commented in disgust. — Wait…

-So…

-Yes. That's the place this book belongs to. — Ren said, showing the book.

-So, what are you waiting for? Let's go! — Morgana said excitedly.

Exiting the library, the thieves went back to the hall and Ren rushed towards the muscle bookshelf, inserting the book in the space. However, when Ren tried to fit the book inside, the book wouldn't go in.

-Huh? Izzat one no good there? — Ryuji asked, confused.

-Maybe there's something stuck in that spot. Why don't you don't try reaching in there, Skull? — Ann suggested.

-Okay…

Ren took off the book and Ryuji put his hand inside the space.

-Huh! There IS somethin' in here! — Ryuji grabbed the item and took it off. — There we go. Oh, sweet! Here, you can have it!

-What the hell…? Why's protein… — Ren was going to ask but he shook his head. — You know what? I'm not going to ask. That's a stupid question… — He said putting the book inside the bookshelf and he gave a small punch to make the book fit, but nothing happened.

-Hm… Odd… I thought we'll hear something move… — Ren commented.

-But we did get something useful out of it… I'd still call that a win! And an extra pat on the back for Joker for scouring every last corner of this hall. — Morgana said happily.

-Almost every last corner. We still need to look at that room.

-So let's get back to the infiltration.

Rushing through the hall, the thieves went inside the last room and found a book displayed among the others.

-The last book! — Ryuji exclaimed.

-Let's take it! — Ann said.

Ren took the book and read the title on the cover.

-"The Slave Book"… I do believe that is the way Kamoshida sees us…

-That bastard… Let's go back.

Going back to the library, Ren inserted the last book in the space and a secret passage had opened revealing a room like the one Ann was held when she was captured. The thieves went inside and Ryuji looked at the place frightened and disgusted.

-…The hell is this room? There're tons of pictures of Suzui here!

-Wait, there're only pictures of her… — Ren noted. — That place… is… — Ren felt nauseated, feeling he's going to vomit at any time. Ann was in shock, unable to say anything. Ren glanced at her worriedly.

-Are you going to be alright Panther? — He asked.

-Yes, I will. Thanks. — Ann replied.

-Don't worry. We'll make him pay. — Ryuji assured. — I promise that for ya.

-Thanks Skull. If anything,… — She breathed heavily, trying to recompose herself. — I feel even more motivated to do this now.

-Me too. I'll take him down in court and we'll take him down here. I promise. — Ren said.

-I'm sure it'll feel awful, but we need to search this room. — Morgana said seriously.

-Morgana's right. We need to search this place. — Ren sighed heavily. — I'm sorry for asking you guys this, but Skull, Panther, can you two help me to look over the place?

-Yes… — Both the blondes answered.

-Let's look around. He is definitely hiding something important here.

-True. That's a too well-elaborated trick for a mere room. Let's search around. — Morgana said.

The thieves looked around and Ryuji glanced worriedly at Ann.

-You'll really be alright? — He asked her.

-I will. Thank you. — She assured me.

-No problem. If you need me, I'm here for ya, anytime. — Ryuji said.

-I know. — Ann said.

-Hey, I found something! — Ren said.

The blondes' thieves went to Ren's direction, who was holding a medal and a map.

-Is this… a medal? — Ann asked.

-Is an Olympic medal, but if you look closely, it's our key.

-The size and shape are the same as that round indentation. — Morgana said.

-Wait, and what about that map? — Ann noted.

-I've taken a look and it's the other part of the map. It was under the medal.

-This is lucky! Let's take this with us.

-Okay, let's check the map.

Exiting the secret room when sat on the desk of the library and Ren showed the map.

-Aha! Our map is complete! — Morgana said happily.

-Seeing the map… There's a big hall here… Looks like a chapel analyzing it carefully. — Ren said pointing at the big room

-So is it gonna tell us where the Treasure is? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes. According to the map… — Ren pointed to an upper hall. — The Treasure's here.

-Yes! It has to be here! — Morgana said with his eyes shining.

-That's a weird-shaped building… — Ann noted. — Could it be a tower or something?

-Is probably a tower. Look, that area has many sections. — Ren pointed.

-We still far from that? — Ryuji asked.

-Considering our current position… I'd say we're about halfway there. — Morgana said, analyzing the map.

-All right! Let's hurry on over there! — Ryuji said excitedly.

-Before we go, we need to calculate how to get there. We can't go that way blindly. — Ren said.

-Joker's right. We need to calculate the best route for us to pace ourselves. Let's keep exploring, but take breaks when you need to, Joker.

-I will.

-We will. — Ryuji said.

-Let's go. We still need to secure a safe route.

-…Hm? Hey! What are you doing!?

A Shadow appeared and the thieves assumed a battle position.

-Dammit! Of course, they spot us now! — Morgana commented, annoyed.

-Of all the moments that could happen, why now? — Ren commented annoyed as well

-If we wanna head back, we'll hafta go through this guy… Time to make a path. — Ryuji said determinately.

-I agree with Skull. Let's fight it. — Ren said.

Ren strikes the Shadow with his blade and two Bicorns appear. A third one appeared with a dark aura surrounded by dark energy.

-Oh, it's that…!? — Morgana said in shock.

"I have a bad feeling about this…!" Ren thought as the third Bicorn muttered oddly.

-What's up with that one? It's mumblin' to itself, but… it's not makin' any moves.

-Be careful. If my prediction is correct, that one's problematic for us.

-Alright, then I'll go take care of it! — Ryuji said seriously.

-Are you sure? — Morgana and Ren asked.

-Yeah.

-Be careful. — Morgana warned.

-Okay, be careful. Everyone, defend ourselves right now! — Ren ordered and everyone assumed a defensive posture. — Skull, attack! Strike him with all your strength.

-Okay Joker!

Ryuji brutally hit the odd Bicorn and he counterattacked with rage ambushing Ryuji, but Ryuji noticed his advance and dodged at the last minute.

-Whoa! What the hell!?

-It started moving after we attacked it… Looks like it's exactly what I expected. Once we take him down—

-And you just warned me now!? — Ryuji asked, irritated.

-Sorry, but I need you three to pay attention! Watch this!

The Bicorn's attacked and Morgana dodged and he attacked the odd Bicorn, killing in the process. He dropped something and after a second, he exploded, hitting its allies.

-What the… It exploded!? — Ryuji said, frightened.

-What the hell… — Ren said, shocked as well.

-I'll explain later! Focus on the battle for now.

The Bicorns attacked the thieves desperately and tried without success to take the thieves down. Ann and Ryuji shot at them, killing them. Then the reinforcement arrived with another odd Shadow with them.

-There's another one like from earlier… Haphazard attacks on it will only make things tougher for us. — Morgana analyzed.

-That Shadow only attacks when we attack it, right? And once it's defeated it'll explode and drop something, right? — Ren asked.

-Correct. There's a certain type of Shadows known as Disaster Shadows. That's what I call them. Once we attack, they counter at the same instant and attack a second time if they are successful. If we're able to kill them, they'll drop an item and explode, hurting the Shadows near it. The more we hurt him before killing him, the more damage they'll cause to the surrounded Shadows. We need to attack with great timing.

-You heard Skull, be careful dealing with that Shadow.

-Got it!

-But he won't explode if he's defeated by Reflect skill or by Despair, and that means it'll not drop any items.

-Let's be careful dealing with Disaster Shadows. Skull, you know what to do.

-Got it! Captain Kidd! Zio!

Ryuji knocked down the Disaster Shadow and hit the other two with the Zio skill, knocking them down as well. Performing an All-Out Attack, they killed the enemy.

-Freakin' Boring!

-We got two beads… That'll be useful. — Ren said after the battle.

-I've never seen a Shadow get that intense… — Ann commented.

-As I said before… I call those Shadows, Disaster Shadows.

-They really are scary! — Ryuji commented.

-True… I never knew…

Ren felt another headache and drank a painkiller in order to deal with the pain.

-Are you alright? — Ryuji asked.

-I am Skull, I just got hit in the process. Don't worry I'll be alright.

-If you say so… As I was sayin' so long as we handle 'em right, we oughta be able to make 'em useful to us, right? — Ryuji asked with a grin.

-Right! — Morgana said happily. — If we run across any more of those, I say we focus on them first!

-The best strategy for this is using their weakness. Is easier to knock them down in order to take the max advantage in battle.

-You guys heard Joker.

-Let's go back to the safe room to recover from these wounds.

Back to the safe room, they rested for a few minutes and used the Dia skill to recover from their wounds. After that, they went back to the exploration and went straight to the locked door and Ren inserted the Olympic medal inside the round indentation and the goat head bowed. Ren pulled the lever and the door opened.

-Sweet!

-Let's keep going.

Going to the East Building Annex, the thieves found another safe room. After going inside and checking how far they are from the Treasure, they continued to explore the place. Reaching the Annex Building, Ren stopped and used the Third Eye, only to not find any enemy.

-Odd, I can't see anyone here.

-True… This place is huge… yet there are no guards? That seems totally suspicious…

-But the Treasure's up ahead, right? We don't have a choice but to keep goin'.

-True, but we need to be careful. We don't know whatever might be ahead for us. — Ren said calmly as ever. — This place looks like a chapel.

-So Joker, should we continue onward?

-We don't have a choice, do we? Let's proceed carefully.

They went into the chapel and reaching a certain point, they saw a giant statue of Kamoshida, holding a volleyball, as he was a divine figure, completely far away from the depraved and sinful tyrant he is. The barrier between the Metaverse and the Real World gapped for a moment revealing to the thieves the gym.

"No wonder why…" Ren thought already linking the information.

-Wait, was that… the gym…? — Ann asked surprised after the gap ended, bringing back the chapel hall.

-I get it… — Ryuji said after taking a quick look over the place. — The gym's some kinda holy place for him. He's a god there. — He said with fury.

-Yes, remember he's always pleased here when he plays. He's considered an idol here. — Ren said calmly, remembering all the comments he heard from the students, especially the female ones.

-I can't believe he can think like that… especially after what he did to Shiho… — Ann said, going to the giant statue of Kamoshida, looking with disgust.

-God, that bastard makes me so freakin' sick! Just you wait, Kamoshida!

-I see… So you're the ones who tampered with the library.

The thieves were caught by surprise hearing the mysterious voice, who was watching them since they went inside the hall. Ren looking over the place, felt the pain grow, but he keeps to ignore it, trying to find the voice owner.

-It seems my time waiting here has paid off…

A captain appeared behind Ryuji, raising his sword ready to strike. Ren saw him and yelled.

-Skull, watch out! — Ren yelled.

Ryuji turned quickly and dodged at the last moment, nearly enough to get hit. The guard ran in Ren's direction, who felt the pain reaching to a point to make the Joker feel disoriented. Ren, after seeing the captain rush him ready to hit with his shield, tried to dodge, but he was hit before evading the attack, sending him back enough to make him fall on the ground. Calling Zorro, Morgana attacked the captain, allowing Ren to escape in time.

-Are you alright? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes… Now we need to get rid of him. — Ren said.

The captain was looking for them, irritated by their presence.

-Just as that ape there said, this place is holy ground for our great King Kamoshida. It is preposterous for miscreants like yourselves to come waltzing in like this.

-Sorry, but we don't gonna go with him. Not the type of my idol. — Ryuji said, distracting the captain of the guard, calling Captain Kidd to attack him. After getting hit, the Shadow revealed his true self, becoming an angel warrior, with knight armor, redwings, and a giant sword, attacking the thieves without any hesitation.

-For that blasphemy, you all will pay for foolishly defying King Kamoshida… with your lives!

-Everyone's ready? — Ren asked, withdrawing his weapons and going in the Shadow's direction to attack.

-Ready! — Answered the others.

-We don't have a choice! To proceed, let's take him down! — Morgana said, withdrawing his weapon as well.

The battle started and the angel flew higher, avoiding the attacks. After taking a distance from the group, he put his sword inside the scabbard. Making a prayer, he felt his strength increasing, being blessed by an unknown power.

-He's trying to do something! Defend yourselves if you think you're in danger!

-Got it!

The angel was attacked brutally, but ignoring the attacks, almost they are just a mere nuisance, he draws his sword and gives a brutal strike, hitting Ryuji and Ren in the process.

-Are you two, okay? — Morgana asked.

-We're gonna survive! Now focus on the battle!

Ren, after recovering from the strike, rushed forward the enemy to a new attack. The angel was holding his position, dodging the attacks. Ann was able to hit him, with the others, when Morgana used healing skills to help Ryuji and Ren to recover their health. The angel prayed again, charging his power to the next attack. Ren noticed the Shadow move and quickly gave an order to his teammates, while protecting himself from the attack. The angel released another strike, that time hitting Ann and Morgana, but with not the same damage due, they raised a guard who withstood a part of the amount. Taking the moment, Ren advances against the enemy and gives a brutal blow, followed by Ryuji who combines his attack with his Persona physical blow, when Ann heals herself with Morgana. The angel, annoyed due to their persistence, intensified his attacks, hitting them a few times. The phantom thieves attacked in many directions, making the Shadow frustrated and disoriented. Seeing the enemy weak, Morgana warned the team.

-Everyone, the enemy is weak, now let's finish him!

Before joining the attack, Ren had another headache. Stared by the enemy, for a brief moment he saw the enemy channeling a blast attack and hitting everyone, killing all of them in the process. To his surprise after that, he saw the enemy get ready to start his move, almost predicting the Shadow attack.

-Everyone protects yourselves! — Ren shouted.

Once they heard, quickly in surprise they protected themselves, at the same time the angel made his attack.

-Varja Blast!

A massive blast hits everyone, but they don't get heavily hurt due to Ren's warning. Ren made his move, attacking the Shadow giving a fatal blow stabbing his chest. The angel falls on the ground perplexed.

-How…

After that, Ren landed and put his hand on his head. That time the headaches intensified, to a point he thought he saw the Shadow killing everyone, to notice he saw the enemy's next move. Having his doubts about what happened, Ren was sure that without that, maybe everyone would die with that attack, or barely survive, and get brutally hurt in the process. All are panting tired due to the battle, but Morgana was electric due to the adrenaline effect and for the surprise.

-How'd you predict the Shadow's attack? — Morgana asked, shocked after what he saw.

-I don't know, I just—

Ren stopped talking, feeling another point of pain in his head.

-Are you alright? — Ann asked worriedly.

-I'm fine…

-You're lying! — Morgana answered, irritated looking at Ren. — Joker, you are having these headaches for a while, after you got here for the first time. — Morgana said worriedly.

-True. You kinda fuzzy when we get outta here the first time. And I saw you hiddin' these headaches since then. — Ryuji said calm remembering when Ren was masking the pain.

-Why haven't you told us!? And why haven't you guys said anything!? — Ann asked furiously at Ryuji.

-I thought he was just sick, or he was just tired… — Ryuji answered calmly.

-Besides, even I thought Joker was just having a cold or something, until now. To you having these headaches even here is not good. That can be an issue in the infiltration. — Morgana said worriedly.

-I'm fine, don't be so alarmed by that. — Ren retorted.

-That happened before here? — The cat thief asked.

-No, that's the first time here… But I remembered I had these headaches before all of that…

-What!? — The other three thieves yelled in disbelief.

Ann, Ryuji, and Morgana stared at Ren worriedly, when the black-haired phantom thief was massaging his temples, trying to relieve the pain.

-That happened during my training, but I thought it was just from the stress, studying, and going to investigations and trials… Nothing unusual… until now.

-When the headaches started again… — Ann said scared.

-Yes… — Ren sighed, remembering his training and the headaches. — I can't explain what happened at this moment in the battle, but I remember dealing with this type of situation before, but I never had to deal with this level of pain before… And when I have an intense crisis of pain, before or during, I can see things, things out of context, but once I get it…

-You can see… Wait, you saw the Shadow planning that moves!? — Morgana asked, surprised.

-Yes, but I was lucky to warn you all before the attack… — Ren stopped to massage and swallow a painkiller, hoping the headache would stop. Morgana recomposed himself after a minute and stared at Ren.

-Due for your condition, we need to reconsider in this case and—

-I can continue. We still need to continue. — Ren interrupted Morgana.

-What!? Joker, you need to…

-I said I can continue Mona.

-But Joker you… — Ryuji tried to talk with Ren.

-Skull, we had a time limit, and time is not a luxury we have. I'm not going to waste everyone's time like this, though I'm not okay, I can't stay quiet or even send you all on your own.

-Are you sure? — Ann asked worriedly. — If you…

-I'm going to be fine. I can't allow myself to stop at this moment and I can handle the pain. I promise to go to a doctor after we have done it here, okay?

-Okay… — Ann, Morgana, and Ryuji said they were worried about Ren's condition. Ren stopped to massage and felt his body shaking due to the battle.

-Didn't realize those things could be that tough… — Ryuji said, panting.

-Yeah… It looks like he's making a concentrated effort to stop us now. — Morgana commented.

-I bet he's going to have a hard time, especially after I defy him… — Ren felt the pain going down a little despite his situation. — So, if you have any advice Mona, better say now.

-Actually, I think we don't have anything for you guys now. All I said until now should be helpful for everyone. I wrote a few things, so you all can read them later, but I doubt you need that now. There's no more time for lessons.

-Thanks. I'll take a look later… Now we need to be way more careful. The security is going to rise even more.

A group of Shadows raised looking over all the place, surrounding them.

-Crap… More of 'em… — Ryuji said surprised.

-What should we do? — Ann asked.

-We're close to the treasure; we just need to get out of here. — Ren said calmly.

-See anything that could help us zip by here? — Morgana asked.

Ren quickly looked around and he saw the Kamoshida statue. With a wide grin, he shook his head towards the statue.

-Hold on!

Ren threw the grappling hook to the statue and zipped to make a maneuver to a platform near there, being followed by the others.

-…Whew. That was a close one. Good going, Joker! That was some expert grappling. And now we can investigate this area!

-What're we waiting for? Let's keep moving.

Proceeding through the upper area the thieves search over the place and find a few items and a new route to proceed with. Went into another corridor, they found a lone corridor disconnected from the hall the thieves were in.

-Huh? The hell is that? — Ryuji asked, confused.

-Looks like a corridor disconnected from this corridor. According to the map… Welp, that place is abandoned. — Ren said.

-There's definitely something fishy over there. There're vines growin' on the door too. — Ryuji noted.

-Yeah. By the looks of it, no one's been in there for a long time… — Morgana commented.

-I wonder what's over there… Should we take a closer look? — Ann asked and Ren went thoughtful for a moment.

-There's a handle on the top of the arch over there, which means we can use the grappling hook.

Ren darted the hook at the handle and zipped to the other side. Checking the area, he nodded to the trio indicating the place was clear, who promptly zipped to the corridor.

-Now then, let's open the door.

Ren cut all the vines and opened the door. Going inside, they saw a single strange plant in the abandoned room.

-This room seems different from everywhere else we've seen so far… — Ann commented.

-Yeah, and there's something super-suspicious over there… — Ryuji pointed at the plant.

-Wait! That's…!

-Do you know what that is? — Ren asked.

-Yes, follow me!

The teenagers looked at each other and they followed Morgana to the strange plant.

-What is this? — Ann asked, confused.

-Just what I thought… It's a "Will Seed"!

-Will Seed…? — Ren asked, confused as well.

-Palaces and locations that grew distorted from their original forms due to their rulers' cognition. When such distortions coalesce into form, this is the result. I call it a "Will Seed".

-Weird… — Ren said.

-Distortions… coalesce… into Will Seeds… — Ryuji said, confused.

-Should I try to explain that again? — Morgana said, unsure of his explanation.

-To simplify… That's a product of the Palace. — Ren said. — It's like a fruit…

-But it's a seed… — Morgana retorted.

-Did you ever hear of something called analogy? — Ren asked sarcastically to Morgana who blinked.

-Oh… Like a tree when it gives fruit… — Ryuji said, understanding the analogy.

-What!? Do you understand that!? — Morgana asked, perplexed.

-Yeah, duh. Ren explains easier… You know I'm not too smart…

"He admitted!" Ren, Ann, and Morgana were surprised.

-Why you…

-Ugh, just forget it! That's a Wild Seed. — Ryuji said, interrupting Morgana. — Movin' on…

-So, what do we do with it? — Ann asked.

-We take it. — Morgana replied. — It may not be prized as a Treasure, but it's still quite a rare find. Making it ours will only do us good… I think…

-You better be sure of it… — Ren said, unsure.

-Umm, is it really okay to take it? — Ann asked unsure as well.

-Nottin' shitty better happen when you take it—like some trap goin' off, or we all end up cursed… — Ryuji said, annoyed and unsure as well.

Ren carefully took the seed and glanced at the seed for a moment.

-Looks like a potato… — Ren commented before putting the seed inside his bag.

-Nice, the Will Seed is ours! — Morgana said happily.

"I'm still unsure about that… Better keep an eye on this for now."

-I guess… nothin' happened?

-There are more of these around here somewhere… As far I can tell, there are two of them left.

-Now, how do you know that? — Ren asked.

-Yeah, I mean, how can you tell? D'you smell 'em or somethin'? — Ryuji asked.

-Yeah, like how dogs can— Oh, but a cat. — Ann corrected herself.

-I am NOT a cat! — Morgana said, jumping annoyed.

-As much as I detest interrupting, we should keep going. We still have a secure route to establish and a Treasure to steal.

-I just seem like a cat… — Morgana said.

Going back to their infiltration, the group search over the place, finding a treasure in one of the rooms and defeating a Shadow in another one. They went to the stairs, going downstairs and finding a treasure being protected by a strong Shadow. Defeating the Shadow, Ren walked towards the Treasure Chest, which was locked.

-It's locked, and we ran out of lockpicks… Well, let's keep going. We'll come back later.

Now going upstairs, the thieves reached the rooftop. Once there, they noticed a giant tower extremely protected and a garden in the middle of the roof.

-Hey, take a look at that! — Ryuji said, pointing at the tower.

-Oh! That matches up with the map. There's no doubt that's the tower we're headed for. — Morgana said.

-So the Treasure's there! — Ann said happily.

-Hell yeah! We did it! So… where's the entrance? — Ryuji asked. Suddenly several high-level Shadows appeared over the place. — Ugh… Not again.

-It's no surprise that security would be tight around here. — Morgana commented.

-Well, at least we know what's coming for us. — Ren said, checking the map. — The bad news is our way is blocked by these bucket heads. The good news, however, is there's another entrance at the tower. — Ren said after hiding himself. — But I suggest taking them down. We don't know if they could follow us.

-So, lead us on the way. As they said, nothing ventured, nothing gained! Let's go, Joker.

Going stealthily, the thieves ambushed both the Shadows, being severely wounded in the process, but managing to take them down. After that Ren and the others drank the medicine available.

-Hey! Halt!

Being surrounded by the Shadows, they withstood all the attacks coming from them and counterattacked when they spotted an opening, being able to surround the Shadows at a corner and perform an All-Out Attack, killing most of them. Defending themselves from the next strike, they waited for the last Shadow to let its guard down to knock him down and perform a second All-Out Attack to kill him. The reinforcements arrived and they managed to defeat them.

-Phew… That was a tough one…! — Ryuji commented while panting.

-I'm sorry about that. I should've been more careful.

-No worries. We'll be alright. — Ann assured. — Now, let's keep going.

Using the grappling hook, Ren and the others zipped to the top of the bandstand and to the flagpole towards the tower entrance.

-Holy shit! Dude, you got all the way to the roof in one go! That was freakin' awesome! — Ryuji commented excitedly.

-You're just as incredible as I first expected! — Morgana said proudly.

-I should thank my parkour and gymnastics training. Glad I can still do that. Now… — Ren pointed to an open window. — There's our entrance. Let's move.

Running over the tower following Ren's lead towards the window. Once inside the tower, they crawled into the vent, going to another window and finding another treasure chest. Sensing something nearby, Ren accessed another window using the grappling hook, finding another Will Seed. Once back, they went down and went inside another area of the tower. Some pillars were moving as the place was unstable.

-Wh-What's going on!? — Ann asked, truly surprised.

-The distortion is getting stronger… The Treasure has got to be nearby. — Morgana said convicted.

-Let's proceed carefully. Everyone follow me.

The thieves followed Ren's lead as he went more into the depths of the tower.

-Huh, what's this? — Ann asked, looking in a certain direction. Everyone snapped their attention to a strange structure the femme fatale thief was pointing.

-The hell? Is it a trap? — Ryuji asked with suspicion. Ren looked at the structure, as that jogged his memory somehow.

-Let's check it.

-What?

-If that is what I think it is, we might be lucky. — Ren said confidently as he walked to the structure. The rest of the group followed him and once in the odd structure, Ren pulled the lever and the structure went down, going into a certain level.

-H-Hey, where are we? — Ryuji asked, surprised and confused. Ren smiled proudly.

-I knew it. That's an elevator. Old castles are supposed to have a few inside.

-But, where are we? — Ryuji asked.

-In a certain point of the castle. Although the map doesn't show. Let's proceed as always.

Proceeding carefully, the thieves explored the new area and went into a corridor where they found a painting of Kamoshida.

-What the heck…? This is disgusting… — Ann said, nauseated.

-I agree with you… — Ryuji said nauseated as well.

-Either way… it's kind of strange that this would be our dead-end.

-Our dead-end… — Ren said, noticing the golden frame of the painting. — Wait here.

-What're you going to do? — Morgana asked.

-I'm going to test a theory.

Ren rushed towards the painting and crashed against it, only for the painting to flip and he went back to the central hall. Everyone followed him and the painting stopped flipping after a few seconds.

-Huh? This looks familiar… Wait, that's the entrance! — Ryuji exclaimed.

-Of course, it is. Or did you forget? — Ren teased.

-No… but…

-I didn't realize we would end up here… — Ann commented.

-Because that painting is also a secret passage. Actually, didn't you guys find it odd how Kamoshida went up and down so quickly? — Ren asked. None of them answered. — Exactly. It's because they move by elevator.

-Speaking of it… there used to be tons of soldiers wanderin' around, but I don't see of 'em now… — Ryuji commented.

-Now you mentioned it… — Ann said.

-Probably securing the tower now. That leaves this area for us to explore freely. Let's move.

Going to the right, they found a lever that activated several gears. Exploring the area, they also found a few levers over the central hall, allowing them to go back to areas they already explored. The thieves went back to the nearest safe room and took a long break. After recovering their energies, they went back into action, rushing back to the hidden passage. Hearing the gears running, they went downstairs into another elevator. Going down, they reached into another area of the dungeon, inaccessible.

-Hey! Over there! — Ryuji pointed at the guard. It was a high-level Shadow.

-I noticed. — Ren said.

-I sensed something. Is actually another Will Seed. — Morgana said. — But…

-And it's protected by him. A captain no less. — Ren said.

-It's gonna be rough going… — The supernatural cat commented.

-But we don't have any choice. We need to fight with our all.

-That one's extra tough. Are we doing this now?

-Yes. I'm sorry for asking you guys that again—

-No need. We'll take this bastard down. — Ryuji said excitedly.

-You can count on me. — Ann said determinately.

-Okay then. Everyone follow me!

Rushing towards the Shadow, Ren attacked him with his knife, however, the captain dodged and tried to attack Ren, who retreated.

-There you are! You're not taking another step!

-I guess we'll just have to step on YOU first! — Ann yelled, irritated. — Let's do this—

Suddenly the Shadow revealed his true form, making the blond femme fatale thief scream in horror due to his appearance. Ren, Ryuji, and Morgana their jaws dropped. Of all of the things, the classic burglar stylish thief wasn't prepared for that one.

"You got to be fucking kidding me!?" Ren thought, shook his head perplexed after seeing the Shadow's true form.

-You 'effin' kiddin' me!? We gonna fight against a dick!? — Ryuji asked disgusted as well.

"He took the words from my mouth… That's a vision burned in my retinas and there's no way to undo this…"

-It's coming! — Morgana warned.

-I'm going to punish all of you, and as for the lady here, I'm going to give her some special treatment. — Said the Shadow advancing in Ann's direction.

-Well, you hafta deal with me first! — Ryuji said angrily, standing in front of Ann, preparing an attack.

-With all of us! — Ren said furiously, calling his Persona and striking the enemy in the process.

The enemy dodged and counterattacked the black-haired thief who dodged at the last minute. The battle extended for long minutes, infuriating Ann who was targeted by the enemy. She rushed and attacked the enemy, whipping the phallic Shadow and dodging his attacks. Ryuji struck him with all his strength when Ren used one of his Personas to attack too. Staring at the female blondie thief, the Shadow attacked her, who barely dodged, being hit in the process. Ann, infuriated, initiated a counterattack, being followed up Ryuji and Ren, who managed to deal some damage on him. The Shadow tried to attack Ann again, but Ryuji protected her at the last moment, receiving the hit in her place. Taking advantage of the moment, Morgana stabbed him and shot him in sequence to deal more damage, being followed by Ren who attacked as well. Another enemy attack was made and Ren and Morgana were hit, but Ren managed to counter with Morgana, Ann brutally attacked the monster as well. The enemy managed to hit everyone, but that wasn't enough to take the thieves down. The battle lasted a few more minutes when Ryuji, using physical skill, managed to finally defeat the Shadow. Once the battle was over, all of them were still in disgust.

-That was… — Ryuji said without completing his comment.

-…Horrible… — Ren completed the sentence, trying to forget that battle they had.

-I-I'm SO done with this place… — Ann commented disgustedly.

-Me too, me too… — Ryuji and Ren replied.

-Now then! Let's swipe this Will Seed and get outta here! — Ryuji said cheerfully. — And don't worry, I'll pay for some sweets after that.

Going into the room, Ren went inside the room and took the last seed. Then the Will Seeds started to float and spun in the middle of the air, merging into one, becoming a crystal.

-Wow, what was that! — Ren said surprised as he took the new object.

-What the hell was THAT!? — Ryuji exclaimed, surprised as well. — It got all… I don't even know how to describe it…

-They've merged into one thing, becoming something entirely new. — Ren explained. — The "Crystal of Lust" — Ren said, examining the object with the Third Eye skill. — It's an accessory.

-Whoa! That's impressive! — Ryuji looked at Morgana, who was perplexed as well. — C'mon, Mona! You never told us what these Will Seeds'll do!

-So THAT'S what happens… I never expected tha— — Morgana cleaned his throat. — I mean, I never expected anything less than that to happen! — He said with a fake conviction. Ren gave a wide grin and scratched Morgana's head.

-Admit it, you also had no idea that was going to happen.

-Oh, who cares about the details!?

"Us, since it seems you're meant to say you know all of that…" Ren replied mentally.

-What really matters is the power I'm sensing from it. Maybe it could give us an upper hand somehow in the future? — Morgana asked.

-Wait, we're just… taking it? — Ann asked unsurely. — I'm not totally sure that's a great idea…

-A phantom thief makes use of any available tool to accomplish a mission. Who knows what we'll find next? If we find ourselves in a situation where this could be useful, let's see what it can do!

-Okay. Panther you'll use it. — Ren said determinately.

-Are you sure? — Ann asked.

-I trust you can do it.

-But…

-C'mon, if Joker trusts you, you should at least try.

-Skull!? — Ann and Morgana said surprised.

-And 'sides, that thing ain't goin' to you ya, y'know.

Ann sighed disappointed and Ren snickered.

-That's our Skull. Here, have it.

-Okay, if you say so…

Ren gave the crystal of lust to Ann which she promptly equipped. Then the thieves went back inside the tower. Once inside, they went into another section and defeated a Shadow, proceeding into another section and finding a safe room. Taking a quick break, they treated their wounds before going back into action. Exploring the area, a staircase appeared and they went upstairs. On the upper level, a maze has appeared and the thieves took advantage of the new area to ambush the Shadows of the place.

-Careful. That one's no joke! — Morgana said pointing at the Disaster Shadow.

After dealing with him they explored the area before going to the upper floor. Once there, they saw a suspended path. Ren went carefully and he almost got hit by a swinging scythe.

-Whoa! — Ren said, taking a step away.

-That was a close one! Wait… What is this…? — Ann asked.

-It's a classic security measure. My tail might be in danger if we try to force our way through… — Morgana replied.

-Oh yeah, same's for Panther's. So… what do we do? — Ryuji asked. — No way we're gettin' through here as is.

-We should go through here. — Ann pointed to the large corridor.

Taking a few steps away the black-haired thief went to the large corridor, only to a large wall block his way.

-Great…

Going back at the suspended path entrance Ren pointed towards the large corridor.

-Our path through there is blocked. Our only path is that one here. — Ren looked at Kamoshida's statue. — Other of those statues, although something's odd with that one.

-Yo, you think this controls those swinging things!? — Ryuji asked.

-Maybe.

Ren pulled the lever but nothing happened

-Welp, nothing happened… — Ren said. — Perhaps we need a key. Actually, shouldn't this statue have eyes? — Ren asked.

-Now you mentioned it… Yeah, this statue eye's are missing… — Morgana commented. — That's our keys.

-We gotta look for a key again? What a pain in the ass… — Ryuji commented moodily.

-Where would it be though? There weren't any suspicious rooms on the way here.

-What do you think, Joker? — Morgana asked.

Ren went thoughtful for a moment.

-As Panther said, there are no secret passages or unexplored rooms at this tower we haven't explored at this point. Also, we already have established a key is necessary for the lever to work. That leads us to the only option left: An enemy has the key in his possession.

-You're right. That probably would be the most likely scenario in that case... — Morgana analyzing the statue one more time.

-An enemy? Ya'mean like one of the Shadows that's roamin' around? — Ryuji asked in disbelief. Ren nodded in affirmation. — Dude, how many of 'em do you think there are? We can't beat the crap outta all of them!

-The keys are in the tower, so it would have to be with one of the Shadows around here. — Morgana said thoughtfully.

-Yes. There is no use keeping the keys far away from the tower. — Ren said calmly, analyzing the situation. — To keep it safe, only a high-ranked one can have the key.

-Then we just need to look for Shadows like that and defeat them! — Ann said.

-Let's do this, Joker! We need to find the Shadows with that key!

-Okay. I have a plan. Let's split up into pairs when we go downstairs. We need to create a strategy to ambush that enemy easily. Skull, Panther you'll stick together. I'll stick with Mona.

They nodded and the thieves went back to the previous floor, splitting up and attacking and defeating the Shadows close to them in order to facilitate their progress. During one of the battles, Ann was hit by one of them with a skill, but instead of getting hurt, she started to stare at the others and to attack them, using the Agi skill.

-What the hell Panther!? — Ryuji asked, surprised.

-Oh no! They used Marin Karin! — Morgana exclaimed, surprised.

-What?

-A skill in which the target is successfully hit, the one who cast the skill can control the victim.

-She's brainwashed! — Ren explained.

-How's that fair!? — Ryuji asked, perplexed.

-Focus, if we caught their attention doing this… — Ren said.

-They're going under heavy guard. It's dangerous to bother with them in that situation, so we need to get rid of them right now! — Morgana warned.

Attacking the Shadows and avoiding Ann's attacks, Ryuji was able to kill one of the Shadows, when Ren and Morgana were dealing with the other Shadow and a brainwashed Ann. Ren was distracting Ann to make an opening to Morgana to deal with the other woman, at the same time, Ryuji managed to immobilize Ann. Ren giving a critical blow, he knocked down the twilight woman, making her fall on the ground.

-…W-Wait! I don't want to die yet! — She said afraid.

-Okay, I'll let you live, but I want something in exchange.

-You wanna talk? — The twilight woman asked.

-Yes. Let's talk about business. My deal: I spare your life if you lend me your power.

-As if! I won't lend my power to someone that's super lame.

"Said the one little devil who acts like a prostitute… Wait, maybe she's one."

-You have a lot of courage saying that of me. Maybe I can kill you right now.

-So… Is this it for me? But, I'm still so young.

"She should worry more about the situation she's in…"

-Hey mister, if I grow up, what do you think the future me would've been like?

-Depends. Seeing beyond your look, a wealthy housewife for sure.

-The way you say that makes it sounds perverted. I think you watch too many dirty movies.

"Or having two perverts as my parents…" Ren thought in disappointment.

-Well, can you blame me for that? You're gorgeous, so no wonder why I sound perverted towards you.

-Yes… Ugh, this is getting to be a drag. We'll just say you win. So, can we stop this?

-Yes, we can. We can say you won.

-You only say that because I'm giving up. That's kind of annoying.

-Yes. I know.

-You kinda remind me a bit of myself— Wait! Talking to you made me remember something! I'm not a Shadow here. I used to be in the humans' sea of souls.

-Who are you?

-I'm Succubus. I mean, I'm you after all, so let's hope we get along!

-Yes, me too.

Succubus turns into Joker's mask and flies toward him, being absorbed by Ren. Once he got his new Persona, Ren walked to Ann and looked at her. At that point, the femme fatale brainwash was wearing off her, but just in case, Ren kept an eye on her until she fully regain her consciousness.

-What happened…? — Ann asked, confused.

-Well, you're brainwashed. And you attacked us… — Ryuji answered.

-Now Panther, did you remember anything? — Morgana asked.

-What…? No… I just remember receiving the Shadows attack and…

-Don't worry… That something normal after getting out of the skill control. Once the Marin Karin gets effect on the victim, that one lost his control of your actions. But that last until the effect is nullified with an item or using a skill to nullify the effect, defeating the Shadows is also an effective way. — Morgana explained.

-At least I didn't hurt you guys… — Ann said downed

-Yes... — Ryuji said calmly, relieved that Ann was back to normal. — …Joker?

Ren made a signal, making them stay silent. Creating a distraction, he attracted the unaware high-ranked Shadow and he ambushed him, ripping off his mask. The Shadow revealed his true form, became a giant cavalryman wearing red armor with gray fur and a red helmet with horns. He was riding a giant dark-gray horse. Avoiding his attacks, the battle was tough, but they managed to take the enemy down and retrieve the key.

-H-Hey, that Shadow did have something… But what the hell is this? An eye?

-Wait, that's our key. At least one of them. — Ren said excitedly.

-I see… — Morgana said with his eyes shining.

- Ugh, how much grosser can he get? Usin' eyes as keys…— Ryuji commented disgustedly.

-Well, we'll need one more. Another guard captain probably has it. Let's try checking the other floors! — Morgana said.

Going to a lower floor, the thieves noticed that all the guards who had been patrolling the area were high-ranking.

-Crap… They all look like high-rankin' soldiers! Are we gonna have to beat all of 'em!? — Ryuji asked irritated and frustrated.

-That would work, but there should only be one actual guard captain among them. Can you find the right one, Joker? Do you have any way to tell them apart, Joker?

-Yes… I have… — Ren said massaging his temples. "Please not now… Just a little longer…"

Looking around Ren found their target. — It's that one.

-Are you sure? — Ann asked.

-Absolutely.

-What're we waiting for? Let's move.

Ren used his grappling hook zipping to the other side of the room and ambushed the Shadow. The thieves went into battle and after several minutes they managed to kill the Shadow and retrieved the left eye.

-Sweet! Now we got both of that bastard's eyes! Let's go stop swingin' things! — Ryuji said.

-You guys heard Skull, let's go! — Ren said, zipping out of there and going to the safe room to rest one last time before proceeding. Rushing to their objective, they reached the suspended corridor and Ren inserted the eyes in the eye sockets of the statue, pulling the lever after the statue was activated. It took a few seconds for the scythes to stop completely.

-All right! Now we can cross! — Ryuji said happily after the trap was disarmed.

Going through the suspended path, the thieves rushed towards the Throne Room. Reaching the top, they defeat a Shadow and find a new safe room. Inside, Ren took the map, checking if they forgot to explore any place.

-All right, we're almost there. I'm sorry for pushing you guys so far.

-No worries, we'll be fine. — Ryuji said with determination.

-And besides, you'll need all the time to investigate. — Ann said.

-Yeah, as you said, time is a luxury we can't waste. — Morgana said. — Now we should go.

-Let's.

Going back the thieves decided to enter the Throne Room, but when Ren tried to open the door, he noticed the door was locked.

-…It's not opening. — Ann said.

-That's obvious. — Ryuji said, and Ann hit his abdomen with her elbow. — What's the door anyways? It's pretty freakin' huge…

-It's the door of the Throne Room. According to the map, that's the place the Treasure is located, more specifically the room behind the Throne Room. The Treasure Chamber. — Ren said.

-We're almost there… — Morgana said.

-Isn't there another way we can get in? — Ann asked.

Ren looked around and he felt his head hurt. He held his head and looked around.

-Joker!

-I'll be okay… — He said. "What…? I could swear for a moment I saw Kamoshida in two places at the same time…" he thought while looking at the Throne Room, seeing two Kamoshidas. Looking above he saw one of the pillars in which turned to the stairs, giving access to a window. Climbing on it jumped on the window and he went inside.

-Okay! We're in!

-Quiet! — Ren said.

-Quiet down, you idiot! — Morgana said.

-Oh shit… It's Kamoshida! — Ryuji noted.

-And tons of soldiers… — Ann said.

-We're here to establish a route, not to attack him. — Ren said with a calm tone. — Let's just spy on him for now.

The thieves stood in a blind spot, watching carefully Kamoshida, who stood from his throne furious.

-How have you not captured the intruders yet!? — He shouted vociferously.

-I apologize, my liege! — The captain said.

-If you want to apologize to me, bring these thieves to me to kill them with my own bare hands!

-I bet he'd never imagined we're in the same room as him. — Morgana commented ironically and happily.

-Yes, and he's going to have another surprise when we steal his treasure. I have an idea to distract them. — Ren said calmly.

-So, what's your plan? — Morgana asked.

-Skull, follow me. You two stay here.

-Okay…

Ren and Ryuji went out of the room and they stayed put for a few minutes. A huge noise was heard, followed by some yells and something similar to an explosion.

-Halt! Stop right there, you thieves!

-Guards! Chase these thieves and bring all of them to me! — Ordered Kamoshida to follow them.

-Did they…? — Ann asked.

-We're here.

Ann jumped frightened on Ryuji and Morgana jumped in Ren's direction.

-Don't scare us like that! — Ann scolded.

-Sorry. It wasn't our intention. — Ren said.

-It's okay. Come on, let's keep moving.

Moving silently, the thieves reached the Treasure Chamber. Once inside they saw a huge hard sturdy door.

-This sturdy-looking' door's pretty promisin'. — Ryuji said.

-Well, we're here. Are you guys ready? — Ren asked and everyone nodded. — Let's move.

Ren opened the door and they saw a room full of treasures and floating in the air, was a giant ball of light.

-Whoa, what is this place!? Holy shit! — Ryuji said, truly surprised, seeing the incredible amount of gold. — That Treasure thing's gotta be here!

-Hey, look at that.

They approached the unknown ball of light.

-Hey, what is this? It's… floating in the air.

Morgana laughed happily.

-That's the Treasure. We finally found it!

-That cloudy thing…? I'm not insinuating anything… Actually, I've already figured out… — Ren sighed toying with a lock of his hair. — It's better if you explain.

Morgana smirked.

-I knew you'd get itl. — The cat said proudly.

-Whaddya mean? — Ryuji asked, confused.

-Desires don't have a physical form Ryuji. Just finding them is simply not enough.

-True. Simply finding the Treasure isn't enough. We'll need to make it materialize before we can steal it.

-Whaddya mean? — Ryuji asked, even more confused.

-As Joker said, desires have no physical form by nature. Hence, we'll need to make the real person aware that their desires are in fact a Treasure. Once they're conscious that their desires might be stolen, the Treasure will finally show itself.

-So, how do we do that? — Ann asked.

-We warn them. Tell them, "We're going to steal your heart.", using a calling card.

-So, we're gonna send a calling card!? That's totally what a phantom thief would do! — Ryuji commented excitedly.

-Lupin teaches us how to be a thief. And once we do that, we finally can get the Treasure! — Ren said excited as well.

-Once we do that, the Treasure will appear for certain! …I think! — Morgana answered, feeling a little nervous on the last part.

-That again…? — Ryuji asked in disbelief.

-Agreed. Mona, we don't have space for doubts here. — Ren said seriously.

-I know…

-Either way, sounds like it's worth givin' it a shot!

-We have to do it. After all, we are finally here, and I don't want to pass this on. Besides, once the Trial is over, we can finish this stealing his heart. It's a win-win situation.

-Okay, now our infiltration route is secure. All that's left now besides the trial is to pump up a calling card, in reality, then come back to take the Treasure! — Morgana said proudly, with their achievement.

-This is it, huh? — Ann asked.

-As I said, I'll solve this in court, and then we'll finish this here. Let's do this! We won't lose this! — Ren said, giving his typical challenging smile.

-That's the spirit! — Morgana said, celebrating.

-When we send the calling card, there's no turning back, right? — Ren asked.

-Yes. Once we send out the calling card, there will be no turning back. I explain better in our hideout, for now, let's retreat. Just let me know when you're ready. We'll head back to the hideout and send out that calling card!

-Okay. Now better head back home. We need to get ready for this.

-Yeah! Let's get the hell outta here before Kamoshida finds us! — Ryuji said seriously, going to the door checking if anyone was coming into the Treasure Room.

-And quickly. I need to get out of this place. — Ann said tiredly.

Once they confirmed no one was coming, they sneaked out of there, going directly to the castle entrance. Once they crossed the suspended bridge the castle disappeared for the thieves, turning back to the school they study.

—

Real World

Café Leblanc

Yongen-Jaya District

Evening

—

Ren was laid on his bed after a long studying session, reading the messages of the Phantom Thieves chat group.

You already home? I'm pooped… It hit me like a goddamn ton of bricks right when I sat down… — Ryuji messaged.

Me too. Can't deny it was tough infiltration. — Ren answered.

Well, I guess we did walk pretty far in. I'm glad we found that Treasure thing though. — Ann messaged.

Yes. Once we solve that, it is finally over and Kamoshida becomes a good man. After the Trial of course… Either way, it's up to you when we send the card, Ren. — Ryuji messaged.

Call us over to the hideout when you're ready. — Ann messaged as well.

There is no way I can't forget to invite you two to the party. Nice work guys by the way. — Ren answered.

Thanks. See ya! — Ann messaged.

-The real challenge is coming up. I hope you are ready.

-I have to be. Let's rest and prepare ourselves for that. As for the Trial, we can only gather all we can and try to get Kamoshida down. We have two big battles coming up.

Ren went to sleep after that. At that point, he knows he needs to update the evidence he had and get information in all the ways he can. Now is something he can't turn back, and he was determined to see it through, no matter how impossible that was. He knows he needs to give it his all and that is what he was going to do.