Story written by me and revised by Foxchick1. Enjoy.

—

April, 21. Thursday.

Prosecutor Office Building. Sae Niijima's Office.

Morning.

—

-Hello, Prosecutor Sokuzen speaking.

-Hello Mr. Sokuzen. It's me, Prosecutor Niijima.

-Oh, Ms. Niijima. What can I do for you?

-I want to ask you a favor. — Sae said, looking at a document.

-I'm all ears.

-I heard someone looked for you to open a lawsuit, a person named Ren Amamiya.

-Yes. He looked for me these days.

-The principal of the Shujin Academy called me to talk about the agreement you made for him.

-Yes. Why're you so interested in that?

-It wasn't you who made this agreement, correct?

Sokuzen went silent for a moment before answer:

-Yes, it was a friend of mine. He asked me to do it for him.

-So, it was his lawyer…

-You can say that… — Sokuzen said with a smile. — So, what do you want from me Prosecutor Niijima? You still haven't told me.

-I want to know if there's a prosecutor assigned to the trial.

-You want to prosecute this case? — Sokuzen asked, surprised.

-Yes. I can't shake off the feeling something is wrong… And I have a particular interest in prosecuting this case.

-Oh… You mean you want to take the case, huh? Can you give me a second to check something?

Sae waited for Sokuzen on the other line and after a minute he replied.

-Ms. Niijima, I was planning to take the case, but since you asked and I owe you a favor, I'll assign you as the lead prosecutor. I hope you are ready to deal with the lawyer assigned as the lead defense. He's the apprentice of Phoenix Wright and Miles Edgeworth.

-Did you say, Phoenix Wright? — Sae asked with sudden interest. — Can you tell me more about him?

-He's a prodigy. Even in high school, he managed to pass the Bar and take his attorney's badge. Not an easy task, but I'm sure you know that since you managed to do the same.

-Yes. It'll be an honor to face him in court.

-I know. By the way, Prosecutor Niijima, can you tell me how your other case is going?

Sae sighed on the line.

-Not that good. As much as I suspected, I couldn't progress as I wished. I only have faint leads and none of them lead anywhere.

-I see. If you want, you could talk with Wright and Edgeworth's apprentice. I heard he has some info about the psychotic breakdowns, at least his mentors have. I don't know if that info will be useful for you though.

-I will talk with him later. I want to thank you for letting me take the case.

-I wouldn't be assigned to you if you weren't capable. I know you are more than capable to take this case. Just be careful with the kid. He's good. I know because he helped me.

-That's that person who helped you, huh… — Sae commented. — I will call you later. Thank you for your time.

-You're welcome.

Sae sighed relieved as she managed to be assigned to the case. All she needs now is to wait for the trial date. She knew she didn't need to worry about the trial date, with her reputation and influence the date can be set as soon as possible as she requested to take the case. But that wasn't the major detail that was bothering her. Looking carefully at the agreement for one more time, she noticed a curious detail, a detail that both Kobayakawa and Kamoshida ignored. The person who made the contract, was to her surprise one of the suspects, Ren Amamiya. She saw his signature as the representative of the defendants. When she saw this for the first time, that was enough to raise a red flag, saying this detail is very strange. But knowing about Ren and Ryuji's situation, she relaxed a little, although she knew she can't think that case will be easy. That entire situation has given her a hint for her to be careful, or she is going to lose it if she doesn't give the proper attention. Seeing the time on the wristwatch, she decided to go make a call to the police's office. She knew she can't count on her partner in that trial, but she still can call someone to help her in that case. She made the call and asked the chief of the police to send a detective she can trust.

-Well… I have one detective available, but he's in training and he was recently transferred from here. He's from International Affairs, from Los Angeles.

-Don't worry, you can send this detective to me. I need someone who can do this job for me.

-Yes, but about him… He's not the usual staff you're used to working with. He is… difficult to deal with, to put lightly.

-Usually, my partner is a teenager. Dealing with him should be easier than that. You can send him.

-Okay, if you say so. I'll send him to your office, Prosecutor Niijima. If you need anything more from me, you can call me anytime.

-Okay, thank you for your time.

After the call ended, Sae checked her wristwatch again. Even while she waited for the investigator, she decided to spend that time to continue her work in her main case. Despite what she wants to convince herself, she can't stop thinking about these strange events that are happening recently, even taking another case to solve, without any relation with that one. The mental shutdowns and the psychotic breakdowns, two strange events that are somehow related, even if they seem to happen in random moments, she knew that it was not a coincidence because they happened in moments so specific that make politicians, important businessmen, even influencers who helped in the growth of the country related to the actual government confess their guilt and connection in these supposed incidents. Sae is a person who doesn't believe in urban legends and rumors, but that has become more than just baseless rumors, they are somehow reality. That made her remember some strange and obscure stories of the past she heard when she was in college, about an independent group who acted in secret to deal with something no one could deal with, and even the government supports that group in secret, and some incidents are solved or caused by them. Ignoring these thoughts and pushed herself to study the recent subway accident, and the history of the minister of transport, seeing his link to this accident and other irregularities in his work in the government. The stories to her are just urban legends, but at that point, she can expect anything could happen at this point, even the impossible.

—

Shibuya District. Central Street.

After School.

—

Ren reached the central street of Shibuya after buying some supplies in the underground shopping mall, but different from the last time he felt something was different there. Some energy surged on the place; an energy Ren recognized even though he hadn't yet seen the source of this.

"Thinking about it, Igor said…"

Return here whenever you wish. It shall be of your own accord.

"Now then… How do I go back to the Velvet Room? He didn't explain that to me, but I can feel the presence of the Velvet Room Entrance here. It might be here somewhere."

Ren walked alongside the central street, looking for the door that led him to the Velvet Room. In his walk, he heard Morgana yawning tiredly.

-Hey, where are we going? — Morgana asked.

-To Untouchable. I'm sure that guy is going to buy the loot we got in the Palace, and I need to check something too.

-Okay, take your time.

Ren reached the alley where Untouchable was located, and he saw the twins waiting for him. Morgana noticed Ren's weird attitude when he walked to some point in the alley and stared at an empty place.

-Hey, is something wrong?

-Maybe. Morgana, can you walk for a while? I need to check something.

Morgana was surprised and confused by Ren's request, giving the teenager a suspicious and worried look.

-That is something I have to see by myself for now. Is related somehow to... my power.

Ren took the cat out of his bag and they stared at each other for a few seconds before the cat sighed.

-Fine, just be careful Ren. — The cat said worriedly.

Ren nodded and he walked to the twins. Caroline and Justine are neutral, but Ren noticed Caroline's impatience towards him.

-Hey, Inmate!

-It's a surprise to see you two here. — Ren answered calmly. — What does your master want from me?

-Our master awaits your presence. Please come this way. — Justine replied calmly and emotionlessly as always.

Ren walked and before entering he looked with attention to the cell door, trying to figure out how the door can exist in the real world.

-Can you two tell me how the—

But before he could complete his question, he was kicked by an impatient Caroline.

—

Velvet Room.

Between Mind and Matter.

At the same time/Beyond the influence of time.

—

After arriving at the Velvet Room, Ren just gave Caroline a deadly glare, which the girl ignored, but if Caroline felt threatened by him, she didn't express it. He walked towards the door and looked to himself, almost surprised to see himself wearing the classic prisoner outfit.

"Looks like this hasn't changed. Like my actual situation." Ren commented mentally.

-So, you have come. — Igor said calm and polite as always.

-Yes. I heard you wanted to talk to me. — Ren answered politely.

-Yes. So, how does it feel slipping into the unusual from your usual life…?

-Surprising. "If you don't consider all I lived through these last months before dealing with this situation." — Ren completed his answer mentally, avoiding being specific. He's not quite sure, but he doesn't feel comfortable in Igor's presence. — Like I tried to ask before my sudden…appearance. — Ren stared at Caroline again, and she acted as if she didn't care about it, just sighing in annoyance. — How is it possible to have access here in the real world?

-Our master has arranged an access point to assist you in coming here directly from the real world. — Justine explained.

-Okay… "So, he has a way to create access points… these doors, in the real world to facilitate my access here. That's good… But that doesn't make me less suspicious…"

-That door you just went through is it! Be thankful, Inmate! — Caroline yelled to Ren. He just quickly stared at her again and ignored her.

-This too shall aid in your rehabilitation. Make good use of it.

-I will. Before I go, I want to do some fusions.

Ren fused a few Personas and after that, he walked back to the wall, and he saw the access door appearing from nowhere. He stared at the door for a few seconds before returning to the real world.

—

Real World.

Shibuya District. Central Street.

After School.

—

-You came back. I was worried about you. You just walked to that corner and you stood there like a statue. You're lucky, no one looked at you. — Morgana said, coming back from his walk

-That's good to know.

-So, did you find anything?

-Yes and no. It's something strange. I don't know what it is yet.

-You need to be careful, or we'll be going to have problems.

-I know that. How much time did I spend like a living statue?

-Just for a few seconds, it was you're quickly daydreaming.

-I see…

Ren felt his head hurting again and suddenly he felt a little dizzy before came back to normal, but he was still feeling the pain over his head.

-Are you okay?

-Yes, I am. Don't worry, it is nothing serious.

-You're still having those headaches, right…? — Morgana asked worriedly.

-Yes. But I'll be fine. Now… — Ren recomposed himself and put Morgana back in his bag. — Let's make a deal with the dubious shopkeeper.

Ren heard his phone ring and he retrieved from his pocket he saw a message from Ann.

Ren, I talked to her. She accepted.

That's good, but what's the bad news?

She wants to talk with you right now. She said you have only one chance to convince her. Ren, what's your plan?

Convince her of my plan. I can't force her to do anything.

You better do that, or we're going to have a new problem.

I know. I'll see you soon.

Ren put his phone on the window and stared at Morgana.

-What did Lady Ann say? — Morgana asked.

-We need to convince Mrs. Suzui gives us Shiho's medical chart. We're not taking too long here; we need to go back to Aoyama District.

—

Aoyama-Itchome District.

Hokuto Aoyama Hospital

After School

—

Ren arrived at the Hokuto Aoyama hospital. Once he arrived, Ren noticed the hospital was more crowded than his first visit. Ignoring that he walked straight to reception and saw the nurse responsible for the reception.

-Good afternoon, how can I help you?

-I'm waiting for a person, who has a relative here under treatment. Her name is Suzui.

-Can I know what you want? — The nurse asked Ren, with suspicion.

-I was requested by her, it's an important matter.

-Can't you talk to her by a call?

-As I said, this is an important matter, and I can't solve it by phone call. Can you call her to come here, please?

-I'm sorry, but I'm not allowed to do that, a request from Mrs. Suzui.

-I'm sorry too because that is related to her and the relative who is here in question.

-I'm sorry, but I said I can't.

-Please, at least tell her I'm here. My name is Ren Amamiya and she is waiting for me.

-Amamiya? — The nurse asked and Ren nodded in affirmation. — Please wait a minute.

The nurse made a call and she was talking with someone. She analyzed Ren a few times during the call. After hearing an answer, she ended the phone call.

-Wait here. Mrs. Suzui is coming.

-Thank you.

Ren waited next to reception, sitting on a bench. He started to study Kamoshida's past again, trying to identify anything in his history to use at trial. At the same time, he was researching and studying the evidence and the history of the Shujin Academy. He knew he had to know and gather anything he can use in the trial. He was in the middle of his research when he heard someone call him.

-Excuse me.

Ren looked at the person who called him. A woman in her thirties, almost forty, at least in her appearance. She was wearing casual clothes, a dark blue shirt, light brown pants, and black shoes. Her face and her body are expressing a single emotion: sorrow. Ren noticed her resemblance to Shiho, which made him quickly know who that woman is.

-Mrs. Suzui, I presume?

-Yes. Ren Amamiya, correct? — She asked and Ren nodded in affirmative. — I assume you are here because of Shiho.

-She is one of my main reasons in fact. — Ren answered calmly. — Can we talk?

-Depends... Is it so important that you can't talk to me by a call?

-That's a matter I prefer to talk to you about personally. This is something of your interest too.

Mrs. Suzui thought for a few seconds silent before gave her answer:

-Come with me.

Mrs. Suzui walked and Ren followed her. Both went to another corridor, next to the reception area. She was looking at him, making an analysis, before starting the talk with him.

-Are you here because of him?

Ren quickly understands the matter of her question, he answered:

-He is one of my main motives to come here.

-You came to see my daughter's condition and tell him?

-He already knows. He's so sure, he talked almost like a fact she is going…

Mrs. Suzui bowed her head.

-If you are here for him, then we don't have anything to talk about.

- We do have something to talk Mrs. Suzui.

-I heard about you from my daughter's friend, you are someone of her trust, but I don't believe in you.

-You're right. You have all the reasons to not trust me. — Ren replied. That answer surprised the woman. — However, this is a matter I can't ignore, no matter if you trust me or not. And you can't ignore it and wait for the worst.

Mrs. Suzui took a minute of silence and asked:

-You asked her to talk to me… Why?

-I came here to help you.

-To help me…? — The woman asked in disbelief. — You want to help me, how?

-I want to make him pay for what he did, but I need you to accept my help so I can do my job.

-Why should I accept your help? Do you think you can fight against him? — Mrs. Suzui asked, looking at Ren. Without changing his expression, he quickly answered.

-I'm sure I can deal with him.

She became even more surprised after seeing Ren's answer and attitude. She asked herself who this teenager with glasses was, she analyzed Ren. As far as she could see, he only looked like an ordinary teenager, but his attitude and personality contradicted his appearance, showing he is more than a mere ordinary person.

-You think this is a joke? — She asked and Ren remained silent. — If you asked for my presence for that, then have a good day. I have more important things to do.

Mrs. Suzui started to walk away, but Ren grabbed her arm gently, but firmly, surprising the woman who turned back in his direction.

-Then are you going to accept it? — Ren asked calmly. — Are you going to suffer silently watching him go away without paying for his crimes?

-He had everything under his control. There was no way to fight against him.

-He had until now. I can prove what he has done to everyone.

The woman looked at Ren again, trying to understand the teenager who suddenly wants to convince her. He remembered something she heard from some students of Shujin.

-You are the transfer student, the one from the rumors, right? What do you plan to do? You want just my confirmation to make him pay? To get rid of him?

Ren was almost laughing at that, but in that situation, getting into that was not a smart choice, neither is it a joke. And wasn't a moment for jokes.

-If you think I'm going to ambush him in a deserted back alley, or send some guys to deal with him, you should know I'm not planning anything like that. "Although I bet, she thought that because of my criminal record."

-And what are you gonna do?

-I'm going to prove his guilt in court.

-Are you a detective or something? — She asked with irony.

-I'm an attorney at law. — Ren answered without being annoyed by that, he was used to dealing with that reaction when he was in training.

-You think you can solve this by putting me and my daughter in your mess? I heard from Ann you got expelled by him. If that's the case, my answer is no.

-And you accepted that? Accept your daughter's condition. She is probably going to die and you just go to watch her suffer like that, little by little?

-I can't do anything to help her. Even Ann can't do anything to avoid that. What do you think you can do? — Ren thought and stared at the woman in silence. — Just give up. Even my daughter's friend couldn't help her. Shiho has done everything to try to get into that cursed volleyball team, to pursue her dream, and now you see how that ended for her? I can only see her, waiting for her to recover… That is if she will be able to recover…

-And you're just going to give up on defending Shiho, because you're afraid of pressing charges against him? Just because he had a name and influence? You are too afraid to fight for your daughter?

-How dare you...! — The woman was shocked and irritated after what she heard.

-Look, I know it sounds impossible to fight against him, but I am not going to give up. I should have done something before that happened. But I was avoiding getting myself into trouble, and that is the result of my choice. I can't ask for your pardon for what happened to Shiho and I don't want to see this situation happen again. I have and need to do something, and I am going to try. I can solve this as an attorney. I'm tired of staying quiet, accepting all that bullshit these people forced us to do. I know you are afraid, but if you just want to watch this quietly then be my guest, because I am getting to the bottom of this, independent you want or not.

Ms. Suzui was in shock, she didn't expect Ren to say that, and she doesn't know how to answer that. After a minute, she's able to recover her composure and coldness.

-Give me only one reason to accept your help. Right now.

-Please Mrs. Suzui, accept his help. Ren is the only one who can fight against him.

Ren was surprised when he saw Ann was there, hearing the entire conversation. Mrs. Suzui however was more surprised than the black-haired teenager.

-Takamaki, why…

-I want to help Shiho, and the best way to help her is to aid him. Please think about that.

-Are you listening to our conversation all this time? — Ren asked.

-What are you doing? — The older woman asked.

-Did you know I helped Shiho to get on the volleyball team when Kamoshida was in charge of the PE teacher? I convinced him to put her on his team. He didn't even have the consideration to include her.

Mrs. Suzui, after hearing that, became saddened.

-So, that's true… I heard that from Shiho, but I thought…

-What…!? How she… — Ann said in disbelief after hearing that.

-Ann told me as well. I didn't even know about that, but it seems Shiho had noticed it somehow. — Ren commented with sadness. Ann recomposed herself and stared at Mrs. Suzui.

-Even with that, if I need to tell you Mrs. Suzui, I'm going to do it. She wasn't able to enter the team on her own, so I helped her, but he used my friendship with Shiho just to have me. He wanted me from the beginning and planned all of this. He used us like everyone else in Shujin.

-And there's more. I was not the only one he expelled. He expelled two other students: Sakamoto and Mishima.

-What!? Mishima and Sakamoto… But they…

-He wants to get rid of both. He used both just to get the power and the status he now has in Shujin. He tried to do that with Sakamoto before, but he wasn't successful. Now both confronted him, and I was with them to avoid any complication, but because of my situation, he took that opportunity. He was planning to get rid of us. Even the rumors are his work.

-Why did he go so far?

-He wants not only to get rid of us but to use us as a warning to everyone. He probably made a statement about Shiho to the police, to pin this on us. And with this, he can use this to do the same to Ann. The way he sees and treats the students and anyone who dares to get in his way… I know because he showed us his true self once to us. — Ren answered, remembering Shadow Kamoshida and the Palace. Mrs. Suzui was in shock, unable to believe in Ren and Ann's words.

-But… That's… — The woman became silent for a few minutes, almost crying in shock.

-Yes. If I just accept that, this is going to continue and they are still going to suffer, even they can end up like Shiho. We can't let that happen.

-Why're you doing this? — Mrs. Suzui asked. Ren stared at the woman, this time giving her a stare of comfort and hope.

-I'm doing this because I know how you feel. I know how it is to feel unable to do something about it, feeling powerless. When I almost lost hope, my mentors helped and trusted me until the end. They helped me to regain my hope, and they showed me a path, a path I decided to take. I was too hesitant to do this before, but this almost cost Shiho's life. If I acted this before her, she would probably… — Ren said and looked away. Ms. Suzui looked at him, seeing how he was feeling. — That is my reason for doing this. I'm not going to hesitate again. I have to do this for Shiho, for Ann, for Mishima, for Ryuji, for all the people who suffered at Kamoshida's hands. And for you as well, Mrs. Suzui.

Mrs. Suzui was silent, thinking about all Ren said to her. At that moment the doctor responsible for Shiho came to the corridor, looking for Suzui, visibly tired from walking around.

-Mrs. Suzui, we are going to have new examinations for your daughter, to see if there are any changes in her condition. That is going to take a few minutes and administer medicine to keep her condition stable.

-Okay…

The doctor started to walk to Shiho's room, checking the information on his clipboard.

-Wait.

The doctor stopped, and turned back to Mrs. Suzui.

-Yes, Ms. Suzui? Did you need anything more?

-Can you assist Mr. Amamiya and give him access to my daughter's charts? He is going to need these in his work.

Ren and Ann are surprised after hearing that.

-I need you to sign formal permission and to talk with the juridical staff to warn them. Are you sure about this?

-I'm sure of that. He needs all these documents. If he needs anything more, he has my permission to get access.

-Okay, I'm going to bring the necessary documents for you to sign.

-We'll be in the reception. — Said Mrs. Suzui.

The doctor went back to Shiho's room.

-Thank you very much, Mrs. Suzui. — Ren said bowing respectfully to Mrs. Suzui. She bowed as well.

-Ayumi. My name is Ayumi Suzui.

-Ren. Ren Amamiya. My apologies for all of this.

-I'm sorry as well. — Ayumi said. — Are you absolutely sure you can do it?

-I'm sure I can. After all, I've learned everything I know from my mentors and both of them are the best lawyers I know.

-Okay, I trust in your word, so you better do your best. — Ayumi breathed calmly. — Let's go back to the reception and wait.

Ren, Ann, and Ayumi walked back to the reception, waiting patiently for the doctor. After a little more than a half-hour, he came back, with some documents in his hands. Ayumi read it and signed, asking if they could visit Shiho. The doctor allowed and the three went to Shiho room, in the ICT unit. After arriving in the room, Ren saw Shiho connected to the life support machines. Ann started to cry again with Ayumi. Ren was silent, thinking about all of this.

-It's not your fault Ren. — Ayumi said, wiping the tears off her face.

-Huh?

-It's not your fault. Even if you have done something before, maybe he could have done something even worse to my daughter or to anyone close.

-Yes, I know that… But I feel I could have done something at least… — Ren said. — Can I talk to her?

Ayumi nodded in confirmation and Ren walked to Shiho. He held her hand with all his caution and looked at her serene face.

-Shiho, it's me, Ren, the transfer student… I need to tell you something. You probably already heard this from Ann. I'm going to fight against Kamoshida, actually, we're gonna fight against him. I know it's risky, but I'm going to do that, for you, for Ann, for the people who suffered by his hands. I know it's going to be difficult, but someone has to do it. Honestly, I'm nervous but I'm sure I can do it. I am going to settle this in a trial and I promise you to win that trial, but I need something from you. I know you can hear me so please, wake up. I know you are strong and I'm sure you can surpass that, so wake up, for your mom, for Ann. We want to see you once again, awake and healthy. I'm going to do my best in court, so I need you to do your best to recover and see again the persons you love, and your friends. I promise I'll visit you again once this trial is over, and I want to see you smiling, happy. We all want you to be happy. — Ren released her hand. — Now I need to go, but Ann and your mother are going to stay with you. They're waiting for you. We are waiting for you.

Ren walked to Ayumi and Ann.

-Thank you. — Ayumi said.

-No, I'm the one who should be thankful. — Ren looked at the watch on the desk. — I'm sorry, but I can't stay here for much longer; I need to go to another place before going home.

-I see… Are you going to be alright?

-Yes. Ann.

-Yes?

-Take care as well. If you need anything, call me.

The doctor went into Shiho's room and gave Ren the medical records.

-Here Mr. Amamiya. The records of Ms. Suzui, including her biopsy report.

-Thank you. Can you make another biopsy?

-Another one?

-Yes, I think it is necessary to make another one, to see if I can find something off. Can you do it?

-Yes, we can. But it's going to take time to get the results.

-I can wait for it.

-Do you need something else? — Asked the doctor.

-Can you look for something different, like unknown traces of DNA or anything?

-I'm going to search for any unknown traces of substances on the new biopsy.

-Okay, I'll be waiting. Thank you once again for your cooperation.

-You are welcome. Mrs. Suzui, if anything happens…

-I know. You have my word.

-Okay. I'll be going now, I have other patients to help. If you'll excuse me.

The doctor went out of the room.

-I'll be going as well. — Ren said.

-Okay. Have a good night Mr. Amamiya. — Ayumi extended her hand to Ren and gave a handshake.

-Bye Ren, I see you tomorrow. — Said Ann.

-Bye Mrs. Ayumi. I will see you tomorrow Ann.

Ren exited the hospital and checked the magazine he bought on Aoyama-Itchome Station. Looking carefully, he saw some jobs he can take without having to worry about the time.

"I'll make the call today. But for now, I need to focus on my case." The teenager thought of seeing a number of small markets. "I need to investigate further and wait for the police investigation."

Walking at the station, he patiently waits for the train. Making the call, he was able to get the job, something he didn't need to worry about, but Ren had the thought he didn't need to work on these part-time jobs for a long time. He felt he could earn lots of money with the Shadows, but he had the feeling he was going to work a lot this year. That feeling made him smile, as that was going to be a long year, but now in a good way.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc

Evening

—

-Damn, it's raining… And I forgot my umbrella…— Sojiro commented, frustrated. Ren opens his bag and withdraws his umbrella.

-Here, you can borrow mine. Just remember to give it back tomorrow. — Ren said, putting the umbrella on the counter

-Thanks… — Said Sojiro, surprised by Ren's action. Ren received a notification and he picked his phone, seeing a message showing on the display. — Hey, you got a minute? — Sojiro asked.

-Yes. What is it?

-Somethin' I wanna ask you. C'mere, let's have a chat.

-Of course, just let me put my things in the attic. — Ren answered, climbing the ladder and reaching the attic. Putting his bag carefully on the desk, he picked the evidence he gathered and put it inside a safe place, hidden in the bookshelf. Morgana walked to Ren, stretching himself to relax.

-That's a good way to get close to him. — Morgana said.

-Yes, and I don't want to be a nuisance to him. — Ren answered.

Both went back to the shop and Sojiro is waiting for Ren, finishing cleaning the dishes.

-I'm here. So, what do you want to talk about? — Ren asked.

-Is strange that you're being unusually well-behaved with me. — Sojiro commented surprised, which almost made Ren avert his eyes. — There're a lot of things I want to ask you.

-Okay, go ahead.

Sojiro after two, three minutes finished cleaning the dishes and dried his hands, walking to Ren.

-First, how's school? Except for the trial, you're not causing or involved in any trouble, are you?

"Better get into it, he is not going to change suddenly…" Ren thought.

-Don't worry about it. I'm avoiding any type of problems.

-Good. — Sojiro said seriously. — If you don't know, I've gotta report to your probation officer twice a month. It's already a pain in the ass as is, so please don't make me have to write even more crap.

"So why did you accept to be my guardian from the start?" Ren asked mentally.

-Okay, but I can't guarantee this if any unexpected events happen. — Ren said tired and uneasy with the talk.

-You better got that. As you know as a lawyer, this society is kept in check by laws and authority figures.

"Even that, they are people and corrupt authorities who always find a way to cheat and even break the law, using it to take advantage to reach their objectives, and the people and other authorities don't do anything because they don't want to fight against this problem accept it or because they can't do anything or they want to get any advantage of this. I saw that a lot in court." Ren thought, but he simply answered.

-I already know that.

-You can go and get yourself killed if you want but don't go dragging other people into your mess. The last thing we need is more idiots like you roaming around.

"I can say that about you too, someone who just accepts things and doesn't face reality, and people who just want to break free and don't face the problems. Honestly, I may be a complete moron, but I prefer to deal with these problems face to face then just avoiding or accepting injustice." The teenager commented to himself on the edge of frustration and tiredness, but he restrained his emotions and earnestness once again.

-Okay…

Sojiro's phone rang and he quickly answered the call.

-What's wrong? — After hearing the answer, he shook his head negatively. — Yeah, I'm heading out now. Sorry about that. — Sojiro heard the answer from the other side and smiled. — …I know. The usual, right? Ok. I'll see you later.

Trying to figure it how Sojiro personal life is doing, Ren answered in curiosity:

-Busy?

-Yes. As you can see, I'm pretty damn busy at my work and in my private life.

-You're in a relationship?

-Something like that. I'm really a busy person, so if you have some free time from your job as a lawyer, you could lend me a hand. It'd really be a great help…

"He looks like he is actually dealing with something…" Ren thought with some suspicion.

-I'd be glad to lend you a hand. Maybe I'm not going to find any cases after this trial, so why not? — Ren answered.

-Now we're talking. Either way, I won't ask you to work for free. If you agree to help me, then…

-Then?

-Then I'll teach you how to make a perfect cup of coffee. Not a bad trade, huh.

Remembering someone Ren met in the past he chuckled seeing how curious was this situation, simply a déjà vu.

-Honestly, I couldn't ask for more.

-All right. Looks like we've got ourselves a deal.

With satisfaction Ren nodded in affirmative, seeing the start of a new relationship of trust with his guardian, although he clearly knows that it is not going to be easy to deal with him.

—

Unknown Location

Unknown Time

—

-You may call yourself a phantom thief, but you're still a minor. Someone had to support you. Furthermore, they knew you were part of that group… — Sae said, interrupting Ren. He was expecting that, so he calmly asked:

-How? I want to hear your theory.

-…Isn't the owner of that café an accomplice of yours!? — She asked seriously, slamming both hands on the desk.

-Straight as always, Prosecutor Niijima. — He commented sarcastically.

-Answer me!

-Maybe, maybe not. It is just a theory after all… — Ren answered smiling.

—

April, 21. Thursday.

Yongen-Jaya. Café Leblanc.

Evening.

—

I am thou, thou art I…

Thou hast acquired a new vow.

It shall become the wings of rebellion

That breaketh thy chains of captivity.

With the birth of the Hierophant Persona,

I have obtained the winds of blessing that

Shall lead to freedom and new power…

Ren felt a new part of his power born when he formed that new bond. After that he gave a small smile, seeing how the world can be hilarious with some coincidences.

-I'm counting on your help. — Sojiro said seriously.

-I'm looking forward to it. — Ren said, looking at the time on his smartphone.

-By the way, how is your investigation?

-Fine, as far as I can see.

-Okay, be careful and do your best, or otherwise, you're doomed.

-Not only me. I know what I need to do.

-You better be. — Sojiro walked to the exit. — See ya later.

-See ya.

Sojiro left the Leblanc and Ren went back to the attic tiredly.

-You better sleep, we need to get supplies tomorrow. And we also need to investigate. — Morgana warned.

-I know. Tomorrow is going to be a long day.

—

April, 22. Friday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

Morning.

—

Ren was watching the class normally when something started to bother him. Everything was calm, awfully calm for some reason. For him, the only reason was the investigation had happened when he was absent doing research and gathering supplies and information. He sighed in frustration, thinking about that matter.

"There's something bothering me, I don't know if it is an investigation or not… I wonder why it's so calm here…"

-Don't you think it is calmer here? — Morgana asked. Ren heard the black human cat and answered in a whisper.

-Yes… awfully calm…

Ren wasn't paying much attention to Kawakami's class, who was quickly glancing at him sometimes at the teenager, who was revising mentally all the recent information he gathered.

"Better go to the police—"

Everyone in the classroom heard a loud and heavy knob coming from one of the doors. A giant man above 6 feet entered the classroom, visibly breathing heavily and tired.

-It's the police! I'm lookin' for Ren Amamiya.

Ren was surprised to see that man in his classroom. Everyone, except Kawakami and Ann, pointed when Ren was sitting.

-I'm sorry, but who are you and what is the reason for coming here? — Kawakami asked.

-I'm Dick Gumshoe, a detective leading an investigation and I need to interrogate a few people. His name is first on the list of witnesses.

-What… Oh, I see… — Kawakami said, remembering the deal. — It's about that, right?

-Right. Now you…! — Gumshoe grabbed the high schooler's arm and made him get up from his chair.

-Hey, wait! What are you—

-Now you're coming with me, pal! — The man said angrily, pulling Ren with him out of the classroom.

-Wait! What're you doing? — Ren asked.

-I need to interrogate you!

-There's no need for—

Ren was dragged against his will to the bridge that connects the two buildings of Shujin Academy. Once they got to the bridge, Ren was able to release his arm from Gumshoe's hands.

-What is your problem!? — Ren asked calmly but with a high tone, irritated with the entire situation.

-Sorry, pal!

-You should at least explain the whole situation with details, Gumshoe! That's not the way you should bring someone to an interrogation! That's why you get several pay cuts and I have enough problems already, don't give me a new one!

Gumshoe scratched his head, embarrassed and trying to organize his ideas and to recompose himself. Ren stared at Gumshoe, as far as the detective doesn't conduct himself like a detective, even though he is a detective, and a surprisingly efficient one, in Ren's perspective. Seeing his appearance, he is always wearing the same clothes, a white shirt, black pants, a red tie, and a green coat. He used that same outfit, to a point their colors became faded, except the coat, which became green due to the lack of cleaning. Keeping always a red pencil behind his left ear, he always wrote on a paper block important info, because the detective is known for his forgetfulness, but Ren always suspects he just keeps these just for horse racing, since Ren has found the detective was always a fan of it. Different from his occupation status, Gumshoe doesn't show to be very smart, to a point he can surprise everyone when he does some dumb comment or action, as well the other way around when he proves to be smarter than he shows, in situations he proves been more than just muscles, however, Gumshoe is an airhead childish guy, but a nice guy, without with common sense in necessary moments, but with a rightful sense of Justice. Now Gumshoe was looking at him, without knowing what to say.

-Sorry, pal, but I need to do my job… — Gumshoe said sad and uneasy and Ren sighed.

-It's okay… But next time, don't act like that. You can put someone in trouble in that way. Like now… — Ren warned and sighed in tiredness. — So, if you're here…

-I started the investigations today. You know, there have been a lot of problems recently which delayed the process and I shouldn't be here, but these accidents…

-Yeah, I get it. So, what're you gonna do?

-I shouldn't be investigating, but I was asked by Mr. Edgeworth to help you in this one, pal… — Gumshoe smiled, but he scratched his head. — I can't believe you're the apprentice of Mr. Edgeworth and Phoenix Wright… You're too young to be a lawyer…

-And everyone questioned about your qualities as a detective, but I'm not complaining about that… — Ren answered sarcastically.

-Hey, pal…

Ren sighed again, that going to be not an easy thing to deal with.

-Sorry. — He apologized. One thing Ren knew for certain Gumshoe is a competent detective in his work and determined to fulfill his duty as well. — So, how're we going to do that? — The black-haired teenager asked.

-Well, I can start the investigation right now, but I can't trust these guys from this school… — Gumshoe approached Ren's ear and whispered. — The principal and that teacher are creepy. I don't trust them, pal.

Ren chuckled.

-Me too, that's why I decided to solve this in court.

Gumshoe gasped in surprise.

-So, it was you!? — Gumshoe scratched his head again and sighed. — You know, the prosecutor of this case is eating me alive because of that.

-Oh… — That was the only comment of Ren, who started to toy with a lock of his hair. — And, let me guess, the prosecutor led all the work to you.

-Yes, no need to explain that for you, pal. She is investigating another thing…

-She…?

-Yes, didn't you hear about Prosecutor Niijima?

-Niijima… Yes, I heard about her. She is a young prosecutor who has an incredible career in law, an impeccable career which led to the solution of cases that were considered impossible. She started young, at the age of seventeen and now she is one of the most important members of the Special Investigation Unit, SIU, a division of Tokyo Prosecutor's Office and one of the most important units of law in Japan, who maintain, keep and uphold the country's law. She is a very influential person and powerful adversary in court. No one dares to stay in her way. They said she is unstoppable, like a force of nature…

-You know a lot about her, pal.

-I haven't met her yet, but I heard a lot about her from Chief Nick. — Ren answered. — So, she's going to be the head prosecutor in this case, huh? — Ren asked, remembering Sae's history and what he heard about her. He couldn't help but just smile at that. — Well… We need to start right now.

-We need to go to the PE Faculty Office. There's a threat.

-Threat… Oh. I see... — Ren commented.

-A teacher was threatened in his workspace, so I need to check this place.

-Okay.

They went to the PE Faculty Office, next to one of the bridges that connect the two buildings of the Shujin Academy. Gumshoe was keeping an eye on Ren, who already got an idea of that.

-Let me guess, she asked to keep an eye on me, by the way.

-Yes, pal. Y'know, I shouldn't be doing this, I'm still in training…

-That makes two of us… I should be in class now…

They went inside the PE office and both saw the place clean and organized. Ren saw a few things that were missing or in a different place, which made him get uneasy towards the state of the scene.

-There are a few things out of place… — Ren commented.

-Are you sure, pal?

-Sakamoto, Mishima, and I were here after Suzui tried to attempt against her own life. I bet we are not going to get anything useful here…

-You bet…?

-I'm saying that because nothing happened here, not on the day in question.

-Are you sure, pal? I heard from Mr. Kamoshida that he was threatened by the suspects.

-That happened just a week ago. And there is no way of finding signs of aggression or anything here or something to prove that. Besides, I was here, it is impossible to find anything here that is incriminating to me and the other two.

Gumshoe stared at the place again and sighed.

-You're right, pal… Wait! What do you mean by that!? I heard it was a delinquent who was transferred there recently with two other delinquents who made this threat! They said he's the one who is the head of all of that.

-Gumshoe… One of these delinquents is me…

-What!? — Gumshoe yelled in surprise.

"Why am I not surprised…?" Ren thought to himself disappointment.

-Hey, pal, no matter if you are the apprentice of Mr. Edgeworth, I'm not gonna help you…! I'm gonna arrest you! Case closed!

-No, nothing in the case is closed. You know I have a criminal record! You tried to arrest me once when I was in training! You did that several times, do you remember?

Gumshoe scratched his head in embarrassment.

-Sorry pal… I forgot!

"How did you get promoted to International Affairs!?" Ren asked mentally in disbelief trying to keep calm.

-Okay, okay… — Ren said calmly.

Gumshoe scratched his head, and the look on his eyes showed how uneasy he was with the entire situation.

-Y'know pal, I'm really… bothered with all of this… Why did a cute girl do that…?

Ren's expression became dark, a similar trait Gumshoe has seen several times in his former boss. As Edgeworth, in certain situations like this, both become cold and distant, almost like a machine, with a threatful aura sometimes. A trait Ren shares with the former Demon Prosecutor and now Guardian Prosecutor.

-Honestly, there's a lot of corruption and dirtiness in all of this… She's a victim of all of this…

-Pal, you're scarin' me, you look like Mr. Edgeworth when… — Gumshoe said without complete his phrase, feeling uneasy by Ren's reaction.

-Oh… Sorry about that… — Ren apologized, which made that expression fade away, being replaced by a surprised frown. Starring again at the place, he looked for new hints.

— Okay, we should take a look here, after all, it doesn't hurt to check.

They started to search for the place, looking at the desk, the papers, the trash can, the computer, but without any results. Nothing useful can be found in the place. Ren doesn't need to crack his head on that to know they already found a way to cover their actions. Ren sighed in frustration and started to search the place again, hoping to find anything useful, to get worse, the annoying headache came back to bother him.

-Dammit! Nothing! — Ren said after finishing the search, massaging his forehead.

-We sure we can find something, pal…

-Yeah… So, do you make any search over the school?

-Yes.

-And did you find something?

-Yes, a few things, to my surprise… I talked with some teachers about that day, especially one who is a key witness to the case. And I obtained some diaries from the classes.

-Class diaries…?

-Yes. Is decisive evidence for that case.

Ren became silent after hearing that. He doesn't need to think much and to ask more to understand what is so odd about that.

"I bet they did something to make sure they were going to win."

-Hey, pal. What do you think of all of this? — Gumshoe asked with a puzzled face.

-You mean, all of this? About the case?

-Yes, pal. Honestly, it is really hard for me to believe in that story. The students, the rumors… Even the principal… Hey!

-What?

-I remember now I need to go to the Principal Office to get the school records of you and the other two.

-Okay. We should go.

Both went to the Principal Office on the third floor, going to the Classroom Building where the office is located. Once there, Gumshoe knocked on the door and waited for an answer. After a minute, no one answered, which made the detective and the teenager suspicious.

-We should enter, pal.

-Are you sure? — Ren asked.

-I'm the detective, so I have the authority for that, pal.

"That's what I am not worried about… And besides, even if you are an authority, you still need permission for that…" Ren thought when Gumshoe tried to open the door. Luckily for them, the door wasn't locked, so they were able to enter the principal's office without problems.

-He's not here… — Gumshoe said, looking over the place. — Is a fancy place here, pal.

-He's really proud of his school… Or proud of the school achievements… — Ren commented. — Why didn't you pick the records before?

-Well… I was busy, pal…

-Busy with what…?

-Well… I was buying a snack for later, a yakisoba pan…

Ren was so surprised to hear that, he wasn't able to respond to that sincere answer from the detective, expecting something like that. Almost feeling his urge, he finally noticed he was hungry too.

"I should eat soon… Maybe I'll buy some next time…" The black-haired teenager commented to himself mentally, to take a detailed look over the place. "Nothing is out of the place, something I'm expecting from the principal. There's a lot of things here, despite the small size of the room. The trophies are always shining and very organized. No one touched anything else here for weeks, that's for sure."

-So, have you come here before? — Ren asked.

-Yes, I need to ask for the evidence and the information after all.

-Have you noticed anything strange?

-From the place, no, but the principal, he sounds like he's hiddin' somethin', pal, that's sure! — Gumshoe said convicted.

-Hum…

Ren looked in the office. As far as he's looking, he can't find anything, which made him think about the whole situation.

"That's no good… I haven't found anything helpful, and I bet if I found something, even with Gumshoe, that may fire back to us. Is time to use a new resource."

Ren started to focus and activated the Third Eye skill, looking over the place again. This time he noticed a few things, but he felt his head hurt even more, which forced him to stop using the skill.

-Are you okay, pal? — Gumshoe asked.

-Just a headache… I'll be fine.

-Are you sure?

-I took a painkiller before coming to school. Don't worry about that.

-If you say so… Now, I think the records are here…

"Damn, my head! This isn't normal…" Ren thought about trying to understand those weird headaches he has been having recently. He felt pain even in his eyes, something new and he wasn't expecting it. Massaging his forehead, he was waiting for the pain to wear off.

-Hey, pal… I'm worried about you.

-Don't worry about me, I'm going to be fine. I just need a glass of cold water to help me out.

Gumshoe looked for him for a few seconds and he changed his focus to the principal desk and saw the records there. He picked up and took a look to check.

-There're your records. With that, I can breathe a little.

-That's good.

-Y'know, the Prosecutor Niijima asked for your records when she knew about your deal.

-Why didn't she take it before?

-She said she was busy looking at the contract you made, and she asked for the original ones.

-I see. She is very busy giving the proper attention.

-No wonder, due to her situation, pal…

Gumshoe was checking the records when he pushed the pile of papers by accident, dropping them.

-Oh no.

-Better we get this before the principal enters here.

Both picked up the papers and quickly organized and put them back in their place. Ren after that looked and noticed something odd in the archives, to his annoyance for not taking proper attention before, especially when he briefly used the Third Eye.

-Hey, one of the archives is slightly open… There is something inside there!

Ren and Gumshoe checked the archives. For safety measures and to register the evidence, Ren remembered for Gumshoe to take some photos before starting to examine the place, just if that was necessary, which was quickly made by the detective. Both wear rubber gloves and open the archive folder and find something they didn't expect to find there.

-A… class diary…? — Gumshoe asked, confused.

-Wait a moment. Take a photo of this as well. I need to check these.

Gumshoe took the photo and Ren picked up the class diary carefully. Opening them, he found a name.

-Sadayo Kawakami... That is her class diary! — Ren commented and quickly snapped to Gumshoe. — Gumshoe, quickly give me the diary class you received!

-Okay…

Ren checked the other one and to his surprise, he found one inconsistency in both diaries.

-The presence of the day when Shiho jumped and the day before is this one… is marked as missed in Ryuji's register. In that other one, here is marked as present. And in this one, the register stops on this day… April 18!

-What!? But how!? — Gumshoe asked.

-That should be obvious… Detective, when did you get this class diary, when and who gave them to you?

-The teachers who were present that day, more specifically, the teachers who was giving a class to you and the defendants at that moment of that day, pal.

-Did they comment on anything? — Ren asked doesn't satisfied with that new information.

-Nothing strange, although they did say that they didn't find their diary for the classes in the early morning a few days ago. Principal Kobayakawa found their diaries and gave them back.

That statement caught Ren's attention. All of that was way too easy for the detective, too easy to find that suspicious. Ren thought about that for a few moments, trying to ignore his headache and forming a plan. Closing the archive, Ren checked the other diary, which he confirmed to be the class diary of Mr. Ushimaru, making him see if that had something off in this class diary as well.

-Detective, I need you to check this class diary. Look for fingerprints, more specifically the fingerprints of the principal of the Shujin Academy, Mr. Kobawakaya.

-What…? Why?

Ren found in the Ushimaru diary class a point when the registers stop on the date when he offered the deal.

-I doubt that this is a coincidence. I want to submit these as evidence, but I need to check this to be entirely sure. After all, I have an idea of how this was here. One more thing.

-What?

-Not a single word about it with them. I have a feeling the principal knows that so we need to check this just to be sure. I need to confirm something first.

-Okay pal…

Gumshoe put the diary class in a plastic folder and put that inside his pocket.

-Be careful. Once you check, give it back to me, okay?

-Roger, pal! Now…

Ren closed the archive and both exited the Principal Office. Walking back to the Class 2-D, Gumshoe entered after knocking on the door. Calling Kawakami, he asked for Ann's presence, who was called by the teacher. Ren waited outside, staring at the detective, writing something in his diary.

-Gumshoe, I am writing a few requests for you. In any situation, don't say a single word about it. Otherwise, we'll be really screwed. That's not only an order, is a measure for the sake of this case, got it?

-Got it!

Ren gave Gumshoe a list with requests. After that, Gumshoe saw Ann coming from the classroom, visibly worried and nervous.

-Something's wrong? — Ann asked.

-Nothing, miss…?

-Takamaki.

-Ms. Takamaki. I just need to ask you some questions.

-Okay… Ren…

-Don't worry, okay? — Ren assured Ann. Snapping his attention to Gumshoe, Ren asked calmly. — Keep an eye on all of this for me, please?

-Okay! Now, can you come with me?

-Sure. — Ann answered.

Ren went back to the classroom. Hearing mumbling about him, he just ignored it as always. Becoming irritated or frustrated just for that is not going to bring him anything. Back on his chair, he just looked at Kawakami and checked the time on his smartphone. At that time, Kawakami's class was ending, making him think about the time Gumshoe and himself took to investigate and what more was disposed of or even hidden from Gumshoe and the Prosecutor. Ren needs to investigate this even more, but he fears that Gumshoe can't handle the work, but now he has to trust the detective, and he needs, even more, to prepare himself and the others before sending the calling card. Sending a message to Ann and Ryuji, he quickly checked all the items and equipment he obtained for the infiltration in the previous days. Ren felt his phone shaking. Seeing a message from Gumshoe, he was informed about the interrogation of Ryuji and Mishima, and because of that, he started to make a new investigation over the school. Ren answered him and said to check one more time to be sure, although Ren doubted to see anything in the school.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

After School.

—

Ren heard his phone ringtone and quickly retrieved it from his pocket. He only saw a message from the courthouse.

To the attorney responsible for the defense in the trial of Yuuki Mishima, Ryuji Sakamoto, and Ren Amamiya, the trial date is set to April 25, Monday. 13:30.

Ren's behavior changed to a serious mood after receiving that notification. He knows he can't waste any second now, with the trial date announced.

-Something wrong? — Sojiro asked.

-The trial was set for three days. It'll be on Monday.

-I hope you're ready, because if you lose…

-I know. And I'm not planning on losing. I'll prove my innocence; you can trust me.

-I want to see that. I hope you have everything in order.

-Don't worry, I will.

Ren sat on one of the vacant tables and started to study.

-You're going to study? — Morgana asked and Ren nodded in response. — Very well. You better get ready for anything.

"Don't worry my friend. I'll be ready for anything."

Ren heard his phone ring again. That time it was a message from Sokuzen.

Do you already know who's going to be the lead prosecutor?

Gumshoe already told me. — Ren answered. — I'm impressed that I caught Niijima-san's attention.

She's a formidable opponent, and one of the toughest prosecutors I've seen in my entire life. I'd suggest you be cautious with her. — Sokuzen warned.

I know, Chief Nick told me about her.

Wright mentioned her to you. That's unexpected, but understandable since they know each other too well. Well, I just messaged to warn you. Have a good night.

You too. Thank you.

Ren stretched his arms and resumed his studies. Studying the files in front of him, his mind went to Shiho and her condition and the case. He was furious with what happened and how things went, but he promised to never let his emotions get the best of him. He felt his determination rose even more as he studied over the night.

—

April, 23. Saturday.

Café Leblanc.

Early Morning.

—

Sojiro arrived at Leblanc and opened the door. Once he went inside, he caught Ren sleeping on the desk, with the files over the desk with several notes. He just smiled and started to do the coffee and the curry. Twenty minutes later, Ren woke up with the smell of coffee invading his nostrils.

-Good morning. — Sojiro said.

-Good morning… — Ren yawned. — Sorry for sleeping here.

-No problem, since you were studying it's fine. So, you should put your files in your bag and take a bath. You have school if you forgot.

Ren nodded and promptly stood up, going to the bathroom and taking a quick bath. Once done Ren ate his breakfast, put his files inside his bag, and went to Shujin.

—

Aoyama-Itchome District.

Shujin Academy. Guidance Office.

Lunch Break.

—

-Amamiya-kun, what'd you want to talk to me about? — Kawakami asked.

Ren sat in front of his teacher and adjusted his glasses. With a notepad and a pen in his hands, he started to make notes.

-Kawakami-sensei, I do have some questions for you. Do you care to answer me?

Kawakami sighed.

-Why not, since you had the trouble of doing that little show of yours that day.

Ren smiled apologetically and glanced at the teacher again.

-Okay then. Can you tell me what happened on the day Ms. Suzui jumped into your class? More specifically, before she jumped from the rooftop.

Kawakami glanced confused at Ren but sighed remembering the moment.

-I was in Class 2-E, giving my class as always. On that day I was scolding Sakamoto for almost arriving late.

-Did he was acting strange or something? — Ren asked.

-Well, no… He was actually a little down, almost thoughtful, as if something was bothering him.

-I see. Did he act in an odd way when the incident happened? When Ms. Suzui jumped?

-No. He was shocked. Actually, he was so shocked, he even stood from his chair and went to the corridor to see the commotion after she jumped. He clearly was disorientated, since it happened so fast…

-So, he didn't have any idea about that happening?

-No.

-Okay. Next question: How was Ryuji Sakamoto before the dissolution of the Track Team?

-Why'd you want to know that? — Kawakami asked in suspicion.

-You can say I have a feeling that something's odd in this case… — Ren explained. Kawakami glanced at him but sighed.

-Well, if you're so insistent to know about it, Sakamoto-kun was a dedicated athlete. I mean, he was so devoted to the Track Team to a point his grades almost went down because he almost spent all the time at the Track Team.

-Oh, I can see that. "Seeing how dedicated he is to take Kamoshida down…"

-Not only that, he was one of the best runners on our Track Team. Thanks to him he won several competitions and we even went to Nationals.

-Seems like Sakamoto was a good runner.

-Good is not enough to describe him. He was the best. He's not a great student in the matter of grades, but his behavior was respectful towards the teachers, especially the previous coach.

-That makes me wonder… What happened to him to make him change…? — Ren asked, knowing already the answer.

-Honestly, I don't know. At first, I thought he went into his rebellious behavior for real this time but now when I think about it, he went like that when Mr. Kamoshida came to Shujin… Oh, I'm sorry. Please don't comment on that with him, or with anyone.

-Don't worry. I will stay quiet for now.

-Okay… — Kawakami sighed. — Honestly, when I saw him coming from the training, he was complaining about how tough and unfair the training was. I thought he was just jealous.

-Jealous? — Ren asked in disbelief.

-Yes, I mean, he was jealous of Mr. Kamoshida in a certain way, but since the Track Team was dissolved, Ryuji kept his rebellious behavior… And it has gotten even worse since then…

"Kawakami doesn't pay attention, or she's avoiding them because of something…?" Ren thought while taking his notes.

-Can you tell me what caused the Track Team to be dissolved? — Ren asked, glancing seriously at Kawakami.

-Well… I'd believe it was that incident. Honestly speaking, Sakamoto-kun is a well-behaved student when he wants to. But that day he lost his control for once. Actually, I never saw him lose his control.

-Never? Not even once?

-No, which makes me wonder what happened…

-I heard Kamoshida was threatened.

-Yeah, that was quite the case. I just heard about it… — Kawakami sighed down and she remembered the day. — I don't know what happened, but it seems Mr. Kamoshida went into a fight with Sakamoto-kun out of the blue. I mean, Sakamoto-kun was the one who started, at least that's what I heard from the witness…

-You mean you don't know how the fight started…?

-Actually no. We only heard from Mr. Kamoshida and the former members of the Track Team. All of them said the same thing. Sakamoto-kun started a fight with Kamoshida who hurt him in self-defense.

"Breaking his leg wasn't self-defense!" Ren thought furiously but kept his calm behavior.

-So, it was Sakamoto who started it.

-Yes, at least that's what I heard about it. But one thing made me think: If it was self-defense, why Sakamoto-kun doesn't go back to athletics? I mean, he has so much potential and it was clearly an isolated incident.

Ren sighed.

-Honestly, I don't have an idea now. — Ren lied. He couldn't trust Kawakami too much to be sincere with her. — But that's what we'll find out in court.

-Yeah…

-I have another question: How is Mishima?

-Mishima-kun is a good boy. Why?

-His expulsion was requested by Mr. Kamoshida.

-Which is odd. I mean, he'd never do wrong on his own. Although there is one thing I find odd about him. His injuries. I mean, he said it's from training, but I don't know how he keeps getting injured. When I asked him if he's fine, he just became pale and nodded.

-Didn't you press him for answers?

-No… I mean, he was uncomfortable with the question and he was late for training.

"So, Kawakami doesn't know…" Ren sighed. "I don't know if she does that for ignorance, or by will. Better take note of that."

-I see… Thank you for your time. — Ren said, finishing his notes.

-You're welcome, although I need to ask, why'd you need that? I mean, its testimony, right?

-Right. As I said I can't shake off this odd feeling, and…

-And…?

-I'd believe I need to investigate certain things on my own. "That's my job after all" — Ren explained.

-I see...

-Ms. Kawakami, one last question: Do you have issues with your diary these days?

-Now you mentioned, my diary disappeared for two days, and the principal found it in the middle of his documents. He said it slipped by accident.

-Oh, I see... "It wasn't an accident. It was intentional."

-I see… Let me guess… You want to keep this a secret, right? — Kawakami asked.

-If that's not too much to ask.

-I will stay quiet for now, but I'd hope you have a good reason for this. You're in huge trouble if you don't remember.

-I know that well.

Ren stood up and shook Kawakami's hand. Exiting the Guidance Office, he found Mishima who was panicked.

-Amamiya! What the hell you've done!? — He asked.

-What do you mean? — Ren asked.

-You've doomed us! We're going to a trial next Monday!

-Who told you that?

-Guess who.

Ryuji came from the corridor with a serious frown.

-Kamoshida, right?

-Right. He spread as fast as he could. — Ryuji said. — Nothin' unexpected, right?

Ren smiled to Mishima's surprise.

-If that's his game, it is good to know. Two can play this game. — Ren said with a huge grin.

-What're you saying!? Do you have any idea of what you've done? — Mishima said, grabbing Ren by his blazer.

-If I haven't done anything, our expulsion was certain. — Ren said, grabbing his wrists, and taking his hands off. — We were lucky they accepted.

-But we're going to a trial! A real trial. Do you have any idea of what you have done?

-I have, and that's why I've done that in the first place because, in a court of law, they can't escape from truth.

-But…

-Mishima. I have to do this. Or do you want us to get expelled in a blink of an eye? — Ren asked. — Mishima, if I haven't done anything we'd be expelled right away. That's why I decided to bring this to the court because that's the only thing I could do. — Ren sighed. — I need to go now. The class is about to resume.

Ren went to the class, being followed by Mishima.

-Why didn't you tell me?

-For you to freak out like now? — Ren asked with a raised eyebrow. Mishima went silent. — Look, to make things better, our lawyer is a reliable one, so you don't need to worry about it.

-Okay, if you say so…

Both went back to class 2-D and the bell rang. The teacher enters the classroom, starting his class. During the class, he received a message from Ryuji.

Why don'tcha say Mishima 'bout you? — The blondie asked.

For him to freak out even more about it? He already had a panic attack. I don't want him to get frightened even more.

When you say that… Welp, guess you goin' to interrogate other people, right?

Yes, I need to go back to Hokuto Aoyama Hospital. Honestly, that will be tough, but I need to do that.

Ren ended the conversation and started to send a message to Gumshoe.

Hey, did you comment anything about the diary class to Prosecutor Niijima? — Ren asked.

No pal, I haven't. Why?

Run a handwriting analysis on those diaries. I want to confirm something.

Okay, pal.

Ren put his smartphone back into his pocket and started to watch the class.

—

Aoyama-Itchome District.

Hokuto Aoyama Hospital.

After School.

—

-Oh, hello Ren. — Ayumi said, seeing the teenager coming from the hospital entrance.

-Hello. Mrs. Ayumi. I hope Shiho's fine.

-Her condition hasn't changed, but she's still stable, which is good, but… — Ayumi looked away.

-I know how that feels. — Ren said sympathetically. — I'm sorry for disturbing you at this moment, but I've got some questions for you.

-It's okay, you can ask me anything.

-Well then, first of all, I need to ask you. Did you notice if Shiho had bruises and wounds before? — Ren asked, starting to take notes.

-Yes. Honestly, at first, I thought it was from training since most of the bruises were over her legs and arms. But one day she came with her left eye swollen. I was surprised by that, and I asked how she got that wound. She said it was from training and I went in the next day to Shujin to demand some answers, but the principal assured me it was just an accident. When I asked Shiho at home, she said it was an accident, but the next day, she came with even worse wounds. When I asked her; she told me everything. I was so shocked I was ready to go to Shujin.

-But she asked you to not tell anyone. — Ren concluded.

-Yes. She told me there's nothing I could do and she told me she and Mishima were being physically assaulted by that demon several times. — Ayumi said sadly. — Not only that, the entire volleyball team and the other clubs were submissive to his will.

-Did you try to ask anyone? — Ren asked.

-I contacted one of the teachers, but he told me to forget that since the volleyball team was going to suffer from the lack of influence of that bastard, and not only that he even said he was doing a favor to the students, can you believe that?

-I can. That bastard even told everyone about my situation.

-Are you saying it was him!? — Ayumi said, surprised.

-Yes. He forced Mishima to spread that information online.

-What a son of a bitch! — Ayumi yelled. — I'm so sorry about that.

-It's okay, I know how you feel.

Ayumi gave a nervous laugh.

-I tend to swear a lot when I'm nervous or furious.

-It's okay… I'm used to it because of Ryuji. — Ren smirked. — Well, back to our interrogation: Did you notice any strange attitudes of Shiho before she… — Ren didn't finish the answer.

-Actually, yes. She spent a long time in the bathroom when she went back home. She was crying and she didn't talk to me or to my husband. We were worried and tried to talk to her, but she went straight to her room and locked the door. We tried to convince her, but…

-She didn't answer. — Ren sighed. — Mrs. Ayumi, I do believe…

-She was raped by him, wasn't she?

Ren was shocked but nodded.

-Honestly, I found a few tissues in the trash can. I asked her why she used so many tissues, but she just shivered. Also, I found some blood on her panty.

That last statement caught Ren's attention.

-Did you still have that panty? — Ren asked.

Ayumi looked away but nodded in affirmation.

-I thought about throwing it away, but something made me keep it. I snatched her panty without her knowing. I know that panties might not be useful, but…

-Don't worry. That'll be important. Maybe we can find traces of that bastard.

-I see. I'll take it. Please wait here. I'll go home and pick it up.

Ren saw Ayumi leave the hospital. He took his phone and called Gumshoe.

-Hey, pal, what'd you want?

-I need you to come to the Hokuto Aoyama Hospital. I have some evidence for you.

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

Ren ended the call and waited for Ayumi, who came back a few minutes later with a transparent plastic bag.

-So, here's her underwear. I don't think there's much to add, but…

-Don't worry, as long as we find traces of DNA, we might get him.

Thirty minutes later Gumshoe arrived at the hospital.

-Hey pal, how're you doing?

-Good.

-Hello. — Ayumi said. Gumshoe looked at Ayumi with a confused face.

-Uh, pal… What's she doing here…? — Gumshoe asked.

-I called her. I was interrogating her as well.

-I see… Ms. Suzui, do you want somethin'? — Gumshoe asked.

-I have some evidence.

-D-Did you say you have some evidence!?

-Yes. Here. You can have it. — Ayumi gave Gumshoe Shiho's panty.

-Uh…

-Please, I know that's not much, but…

-Okay pal. I'll send it to be analyzed right away.

-Gumshoe! — Ren called.

-Yes, pal?

-Look for traces of semen.

-Why're you… Oh. Okay, pal. I'll check it.

-Also, I want to know if you checked the diary class.

-Yes, pal. The diary class had the principal's fingerprints. But it'll take some time for the handwriting analysis.

-Good. Can you give me the rest of the evidence?

-'Course you can have it. Here.

Gumshoe gave all the evidence they gathered to Ren.

-Thank you. Did he get suspicious of you asking for his fingerprints?

-No, pal. Actually, taking his fingerprints was easy. I just asked him to borrow one of his pens and he gave one to me.

-Wow, nice move.

-Thanks. I actually lost my pen, but it was really nice of him to give me one.

Ren smiled, expecting that.

"Why am I not surprised."

-But I submitted as evidence, pal. Just in case.

-Okay. Thank you.

-I'll be going back to the precinct now. I'll give the evidence on Monday.

Ren nodded and Gumshoe laughed and went back to the precinct.

-Do you know him? — Ayumi asked.

-He's a friend of my mentors, in a way.

-When you say that…

-He worked with my mentors. He was recently promoted to International Affairs. Did you meet him?

-Actually no. I thought… He's too tall for a detective.

Ren laughed.

-I thought you were going to say he's not too smart. — Ren commented.

-He sounds too childish for me…

-He's a good man, just not too smart, but incredibly trustworthy.

-When you said that… Do you think he can do it? — She asked.

-Yes, I know he can do it. — Ren bowed to Ayumi. — Mrs. Ayumi, thank you very much for your help.

-It was nothing, but please, call me Ayumi. Mrs. makes me feel too old.

Ren gave a small laugh.

-Okay, Ayumi.

Ayumi glanced at Ren with a worried expression.

-Ren, do you really think you'll be able to prove his guilt in court? — She asked and Ren nodded his head in court.

-I'm sure I can. You shouldn't worry about it…

-I know you can, it just… — She sighed. — I'm worried about Ann and you guys. If you can't prove his guilt, she… and not only her, you and Mishima and Sakamoto…

Ren holds her shoulder and looked at Ayumi with an assuring stare.

-It's okay. I know how you feel, but I'll win this case. This I swear to you.

Ayumi smiled.

-Thank you.

Ren took out his phone and checked the time on the screen.

-I need to go. My guardian will get worried if I don't arrive home in time.

-Okay.

Ren exited the hospital and went to the station. He couldn't say he wasn't worried about the case, but something was bothering him, but he couldn't pinpoint the station, he waited patiently for the train to arrive. At that moment someone bumped him by accident.

-I'm sorry about that. —The man said and Ren helped him.

-It's okay.

The man glanced at Ren's attire and his face went pale.

-I'm sorry, but… are you a student from Shujin?

-Yes, I am a student from there.

-Perhaps you are from the volleyball team? Someone close to Kamoshida perhaps?

-Do you know him? — Ren asked.

-You can say that… Honestly of all the places, why now? If he knows I'm here…

Ren stood quiet for a moment, then he remembered something.

-Are you perhaps… from the same team as him that won the Olympics? — Ren asked, and the face of the man went pale.

-How'd you know? — The man asked.

-I was investigating his past. — Was Ren's only man glanced at Ren and grabbed him by the wrists, going to an alleyway. Once there, the man threw him and pinned Ren at the wall.

-Tell me, how much did he pay you to go after me?

-Nothing. I'm after him as well.

-Don't lie to me kid, I know he paid you or threatened you.

-I'm not under his orders, I swear.

The man stared at Ren and released him, turning at the street.

-If I were you, I would stop prying into his life. He's a dangerous person.

The man intended to run away, but Ren, taking advantage of the man's sidetracked mind, grabbed the man's wrist and pinned him against the wall.

-Okay then, now I want to know what's the big idea.

-What're you…

-Listen up. You're acting too odd for someone who clearly assaulted a high schooler. If I were you, I don't want to be arrested or receive a lawsuit, you better tell me who you are and why did that right now.

The man gulped and nodded in affirmation.

-My name is Ushiro Yamagi. I was a teammate of that asshole.

-Kamoshida, right? Why'd you pinned me against the wall like that?

-I'm sorry, but I need to be sure you're not his minion or something…

Ren stared at him and he saw he was telling the truth.

-Let me guess, he threatened you as well.

-How do you know?

-Because he did the same thing to me.

The man glanced at Ren.

-Wait, are you being threatened by him?

Ren, unsure of how the conversation was going to go, just nodded in affirmation and the man sighed.

-Great. Now I've assaulted an innocent high school student.

Ren smirked at that comment.

-Don't worry, I won't tell anyone, but as you said, you assaulted a high schooler, and trust me when I say that's not going to end well for both of us if someone caught us here. If you don't want any problems from me, I'd suggest you come with me to a public place and talk like civilized persons.

Ushiro nodded and both exited the alleyway and went to a restaurant near the station. Once there Ren asked for a bottle of water.

-Okay, talk. — Ushiro said.

-I should be the one asking that. — Ren retorted. — Why'd you assault me like that?

-I'm so sorry about that… I thought you were under Kamoshida's orders. — Ushiro sighed. — He's quite the threatening one when he's feels threatened by anyone.

-I can relate. He tried to expel me and other colleagues.

Ushiro smirked.

-He always does that. He manipulates and uses everyone who's a nuisance or a threat in order to get whenever he wants.

-Well, you could say that. One of my colleagues jumped from the rooftop.

-When I saw the news about that, somehow, I knew it was him. He's the type to act as the victim and pin his acts on his victims. You're one of them, right?

Ren nodded in agreement and sighed tiredly.

-He screwed up my school life in order to keep me on his web. Unfortunately for him, I didn't bend and you know the rest.

Ushiro sighed.

-Honestly, all the hell I lived because of him isn't worth it one single bit. I thought I'll have a promising career in the sports, but thanks to him I lost everything. — Ushiro sighed. — At first, our team went well and we managed to enter the Olympics. But when he entered the team, our lives were a living hell. He abused all of us, physically and mentally. And the worst part of it was he was one of the coach's favorites, you can imagine why.

-So the coach…?

-The coach was tricked as well by him, at least that's what I want to believe. At first, all of us went along well, and he acted as a team. But then the fame overwhelmed his head and he showed his true colors. To be honest, I'd believe he always was like that, but he just hid that side of him from everyone. As we made it far in the Olympics, he became worse and worse, and when we won the gold, he was admired and loved as a hero, but he was a villain despot which made all the things to reach fame, not that he needed since he has the charisma and the skills as a volleyball player, but one thing he couldn't bear is to share the attention and the admiration with the others. — Ushiro gave an acid laugh. — He couldn't support the fact that he could lose the spotlight to anyone. Of course, he's very talented at volleyball, I can't deny that, but when it comes to showing who's the best, no matter which area is, he always goes to any lengths to prove his point.

-I know that. He broke the leg of one of the best runners of Shujin because of that.

-When I heard about it, I was reminded when he did the same thing to a teammate. Of course, you believe everything I say, you're a victim of him as well. No matter who it is, he destroys everything that stands in his way, at least if he thinks it stands in his way, and uses anyone he wants to use.

Ren sighed, clenching his fists.

-I know that well. That girl was a victim of him as well, and the student who assaulted him. I know both.

-You can have my sympathies towards that matter. Now, I want to know, what're you planning? Do you intend to give him a payback?

-I'm going to settle everything with the court. We'll be in a trial next Monday.

Ushiro laughed.

-You truly are insane. Do you really believe you can take him down?

-Absolutely. I'm not planning on backing out now.

Ushiro glanced at the teenager and sighed.

-It's your choice then. As I said, if I were you, I'd leave that alone, but it seems like he already decided to pin you down. — Ushiro averted his stare to the window. — As he did to us.

-I know… — Ren sighed. — But I can't go back now, otherwise, everyone will be doomed. I feel responsible for all of this and I think I should do something.

-I see… — Ushiro stood up and searched for something in his bag. — Well, if I were you, I wouldn't waste my time searching for his past. You're not going to find anything there. Here, you can have it… — Ushiro gave to Ren a gold medal.

-Wait, that's…

-That's right, it's my Olympic medal. I was going to sell the medal today, but I haven't dared to do that. Ironically, I always carry with me to remember that nightmare I lived. No matter what, I simply can't get rid of this cursed medal when I could. Now I'd believe I found a proper use for that thing. You can have it; I don't need that anymore.

Ren took the medal and put it inside his bag.

-Thank you. It might be useful.

-I hope it will.

Ren saw Ushiro disappear in the middle of the crowd. After that, he paid for the bottle of water and exited the restaurant. During his way back to Yongen, a thought rushed into Ren's mind.

"A blunt object…"

—

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

After School.

—

-So, why'd you call us? — Ryuji asked.

-I have a plan. It's risky, but I'm sure I can be successful.

-You mean to solve the case on the same day, right?

Ren smiled at Morgana.

-How do you figure it out so quickly? — Ren asked with a smile on his face.

-Because I know that it's something only you can do. So, you plan to solve this on the same day… Are you sure you can do this? — Morgana asked worriedly and doubtfully. Ren nodded his head in affirmation. — All right! All that's left now aside from the trial is to send out the calling card and take Kamoshida's heart.

-Couldn't we have just sent one at the beginnin' of all of this…? — Ryuji asked.

-It's not that simple. A Treasure won't stay materialized forever. Once the impression is gone, the Treasure will disappear. I think it'll last around a day, at most. — Morgana explained.

-That's understandable since he might think that the entire thing is a joke or something. He won't fall into the same trick twice. — Ren said, remembering his training.

-The hell…? That's like no time at all… — Ryuji complained. — Anyways, we can send a callin' card right now, yeah? Let's do this and steal that bastard's heart!

-Wait Ryuji, before that Ren needs to prove our innocence in court first!

-I know that, that's why we'll send the callin' card Monday, right? — Ryuji said with a huge grin on his face.

-Right. I hope everyone's ready because there's no turning back now. — Everyone nodded in agreement. — Good, let's send the calling card Monday. I've been waitin' to hear you say that!

-Remember, the Palace will go away once we take the Treasure. Let's make sure we've done everything we need to do.

-Aside from a few treasures, we managed to get all the Will Seeds and to secure an infiltration route. I do believe we've done all we need to do. We can take the Treasure Chests on the same day.

-I wouldn't recommend that, but if you're sure…

-I know that, but I need all the time to prepare for the defense in the trial. We've already got the necessary evidence, but without a proper defense, that won't be enough. Especially with the prosecutor in charge.

-Do you already know who's the prosecutor in charge? — Ann asked.

-Sae Niijima. I bet you guys already know who she is.

-Really!? You're gonna face the sister of the President of the Student Council? Damn… — Ryuji said surprised.

-I heard she's one of the best prosecutors of Tokyo and maybe even Japan. Are you sure you can face her? — Ann asked.

-I'm sure of it. And my mentors told me enough about her. You can say I had a slight idea of who I'm going to face.

-I hope you are ready… — Morgana said.

-So, Monday's finally the day. — Ryuji said while stretching his arm.

-So we send the calling card in the morning… And carry out the plan by the end of the day, right? — Ann asked.

-Correct. The effects don't last that long… Are you worried?

-Heh. Waited too long. — Ann said with a grin.

-I'm ready to go. — Ren said.

-Perfect. — Morgana said.

-We're going to pull this off, no matter what! — Ann said convicted.

-That's what I want to hear. — Ren said with a smile.

-So, who's going to write the card? — Morgana asked.

-Leave it to me! — Ryuji said excitedly.

-Why? — Ann asked.

-Why…? Why wouldn't it be me!? — Ryuji retorted.

"I've several reasons why, but it's better if I let this slide for now…" Ren thought while adjusting his glasses.

-This is important. Are you sure you can handle the pressure? — Ann asked.

-I agree with Ann, Ryuji. We can't let any detail slide. — Ren said.

-I must agree. — Morgana said.

-I really wanna get him good! Lemme write it… C'mon, please? — Ryuji begged.

-Are you sure you can handle it? — Ren asked.

-Yeah dude, no pressure!

-Okay, I leave you to make and send the calling card. Just make sure you'll use gloves. You don't want the police to find you by your fingerprints.

-Alright, alright! Yeah, I got this!

-Hey, Ren's right. Are you sure about this? If they find out our identities, all this work will be for nothing… — Ann warned.

-I know! I know!

-All right, then! Monday it is! You'd better not slack off on this. — Morgana said to Ren.

-Don't worry, I won't. — Ren answered.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Evening.

—

Ren arrived at Leblanc and he received a message from Gumshoe.

Hey, pal. The results of that evidence will be ready on Monday. But for now, I can only say without any doubt there's blood in that panty that woman gave to me, also an unknown sample of semen. — Gumshoe went silent for a moment, then asked. — Pal, don't tell me you suspect…

Gumshoe, don't even ask me that… Because if I gave that evidence to you, it is because the answer is yes. — Ren answered.

Pal, what the heck you got yourself into? — Gumshoe asked. — Anyway, I need to go now. Prosecutor Niijima is calling me.

Ren put back his phone inside his pocket and sighed extremely tired. As much as he wished for an easy resolution, he knew that case wasn't going to be easy, not only because of Prosecutor Niijima, but because of Kobayakawa. He only let himself fall on the bed and he looked at his bag.

-Hey, what're you gonna do tomorrow? — Morgana asked.

-Pick up my attire at that expensive dry-laundry in Shibuya. At this time, I know it is already clean, and I need to be properly dressed for the occasion.

-Any other things?

-I need to make some infiltration tools for us. We'll need them anyway.

-Okay. — Morgana glanced at the black-haired teenager. — Are you sure you can do this…?

-I've never been so sure in my entire life. — Ren said with a dead-set determination.

-Okay. I trust you.

"Everything will be settled on Monday…" Ren felt the headaches come back. He simply stood up and went downstairs and took a cup of water and some medicine he had left and drunk it. After that, he went back upstairs and went back to sleep.

"Those headaches are still bothering me… I wonder what'll happen on Monday. I can only wait."

With those thoughts, Ren quickly fell asleep.

—

April, 25. Monday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

Early Morning.

—

Ann was walking towards the corridor, going to her classroom when she saw a group of students reading the bulletin board. A giant sequence of Kanjis made of red cards was pinned at the bulletin board. Ann walked to one of them and started to read.

-Sir Suguru Kamoshida, the utter bastard of lust… We know how shitty you are, and that you put your twisted desires on students that can't fight back. That's why we have decided to steal away those desires and make you confess your sins. This will be done tomorrow, so we hope you will be ready. From the Phantom Thieves of Hearts. — Ann sighed disappointed. — …Wow.

Ann saw Ryuji and Ren and walked in their direction.

-Not bad, eh? — Ryuji asked. — I looked up a bunch of similar stuff online for reference.

-Well, about that… — Ren said, extremely uncomfortable.

-Um… Yeah… I know what you wanted to say, but it sounded like an idiot trying to be an adult. — Ann replied.

-Yeah… It sounded amateur… and childish… — Ren said.

-Your logo's a little lacking, too. — Morgana commented.

-You took that from Lupin third, didn't you? — Ren asked.

-Okay, y'know what? Th-That ain't true! — Ryuji replied nervously.

-Did Mr. Kamoshida do something wrong? — A female student asked.

The trio glanced at the bulletin board when the students started to comment about the calling card.

-Does that mean the rumors are true!? — Another female student asked.

-Wait a sec… Is someone gonna take something from Mr. Kamoshida? — A confused student asked.

-What's with this weird logo? And who're these Phantom Thieves of Hearts people? — A male student asked.

-…It got everyone excited, so it's all good, yeah? — Ryuji asked, unsure.

-I say we got lucky because of the hype. High schoolers are a bunch of idiots… — Ren answered.

-Really…? — Ryuji asked.

-What's that?

Everyone's attention was caught by a nervous Kamoshida who read the calling card.

-Who's responsible for this!? — He asked furiously.

-…Look at that. A predicable reaction for someone who knows what we mean by distorted desires. — Morgana commented happily.

-So it worked… "I'm impressed." — Ren said.

-I think it hit him pretty hard. — Ryuji commented excitedly.

-Who did this? Was it you? Did you do this!? Or it was you!?

Everyone ran away from a furious Kamoshida which reacted violently. He stared at Ren and Ryuji and walked towards their direction.

- …Was it you two!? — He asked.

-What're you talking about? I've decided to solve this in court, so why would I need to do that? Do you really believe I'd go that far just to do that? — Ren asked.

-So, you're playing dumb, huh?

-I'm not playing dumb; I'm just stating the obvious. — Ren answered.

-Eh, it's not a problem. You'll be expelled soon enough anyway. After the trial, you'll be in jail with that delinquent as well. — Kamoshida pointed to Ryuji.

Ren felt a headache and the trio felt the surroundings distort, and Shadow Kamoshida appeared in his field of vision, when the surroundings went black.

-Come… Steal it, if you can! — Shadow Kamoshida said, threatening them. They felt the security level of the Palace rise to the maximum and everything went back to normal and Kamoshida left the place.

-Judging from Kamoshida's response… I'm sure that we had an effect on his Palace!

-Does that mean the Treasure's appeared!? We'll be able to get it today, right? — Ann asked.

-It's not just "today". It's ONLY today. — Morgana answered. — The impact of seeing a calling card doesn't last long and it cannot be repeated. This will be our only chance to steal the Treasure.

-One day's more than enough for us! — Ryuji said excitedly.

-But considering the situation of Kamoshida, maybe, just maybe the effect lasts longer than ever. — Morgana said thoughtfully.

-I'm sure of it… — Ren said, feeling his head hurt. — But after the trial we'll steal it today, got it?

-Got it.

-Let's go.