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.

13. Chapter 13

-Well then, the next to receive a calling card was this individual… — Sae opened the folder and showed Ren a photo of a middle-aged man wearing traditional Japanese clothes. — A master of the Japanese arts: Ichiryusai Madarame. It's even more incomprehensible than Kamoshida as to why this man was targeted.

-Oh him. I faced him in court too. It seems he was also a target of the Phantom Thieves too. — Ren teased and Sae pounded the desk.

-Don't mess with me.

-Sorry, but as you said, I had no personal reason to target him as well. So you want to know why correct?

-Correct. Where did you first meet him? And how did you learn about his crimes when you weren't a victim of them? Start by telling me what you all schemed.

-I will. After stealing Kamoshida's heart we…

—

May, 5. Thursday.

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Evening.

—

Ren arrived at Leblanc and immediately he received a message from the chat group.

The Phantom Thieves of Hearts, huh… I'm liking the sound of that! — Ryuji texted.

I hope we can really help people. — Ann texted.

We will. Actually, we should keep an eye on the Phantom Aficionado Website. I'm curious about that page. — Ren texted.

I'm curious about the Phantom Aficionado Website too. I wonder who made it… — Ann asked herself.

No clue… — Ryuji answered.

Maybe someone from Shujin. — Ren speculated.

More importantly, d'you see the survey there? I dunno how I feel about it. — Ryuji asked.

Yeah, there was this approval rating thing, but it was only at like six percent… — Ann commented.

That's better than I thought, considering our situation… — Ren replied.

I guess it's not so bad if you put it in that way… — Ann said.

But don't you just wanna get it higher than that? — Ryuji texted. — I bet it'll go up tons if we keep taking down big targets.

Yeah, but I don't know… — Ren said. — Still, I'd believe it's the best for us for now.

It's pretty damn exciting if you try and think about it like that.

You know, you're actually right. — Ann said

He's right. I'll take a look and keep investigating it, alright? — Ren said.

All right. Well then, let's keep working hard from this point on! — Ann said.

Oh yeah, lemme send the celebratory pic I took for today. — Ryuji texted.

You took a pic? I want to see it. — Ren texted.

Then Ren saw Ryuji's picture of them eating at the buffet. Ann with a giant slice of cake, Ren drinking his coffee, as Morgana glanced at a mountain of pancakes and Ryuji smiling at the camera.

You can cool it with all the "celebrating" any time now… Wait, you took that while I was eating!? Why didn't you tell me!? — Ann exclaimed furiously.

Uh, I did. You just never stopped eating. — Ryuji replied.

Ren chuckled as he saw both Ryuji and Ann arguing.

Anyway, this is our start as the Phantom Thieves! We're gonna take the world by storm! All the shitty adults in the world better watch out for us! — Ryuji texted.

Ren saved the picture on the cloud and he started to take care of Chihiro. After putting some nutrients on the plant, he watered Chihiro. Once he was done he went downstairs and looked at Sojiro.

-Hey.

-Sup.

-Did you clean the bathroom yet? — Ren asked.

-No, why? — Sojiro asked.

-I was planning to clean it. Do you mind?

-No. Actually, I'd certainly appreciate that. I'm going home now. Don't break anything in the store, got it?

-Got it!

Ren cleaned the bathroom and he decided to clean up the store to make sure everything is clean. After a few hours, Ren glanced proudly at the floor, which was shining.

-All right, all clean! I bet the chief is gonna be happy with this! — Morgana said proudly, looking at the floor.

-He will. Well, let's call it a day and go to sleep. Tomorrow will be a long day. — Ren replied.

Ren went upstairs and changed to his pj's and laid on his bed. Before he fell asleep he received a message.

Ren, just telling you I may have found a house. If everything went well I'll move next week. — Phoenix texted.

Okay. Tell me if something happens.

After that, Ren fell asleep.

—

Velvet Room.

Between Mind and Matter.

Out the influence of time.

—

Ren felt that he wasn't at Leblanc anymore and he fully woke up, recognizing he was once again in the Velvet Room. Standing up, he walked towards the door, where Igor waited for him.

-Hello.

-Hello, Trickster. First off… I'd like to congratulate you. — Igor said.

-To think our master would give words of praise… — Justine commented.

-You better treasure this moment, Inmate! — Caroline exclaimed.

-Thank you, but what are we celebrating? — Ren asked.

-You have encountered allies who share your ideals, and you have found your place in reality. The time has come… Your rehabilitation will soon begin. — Igor replied.

"I truly don't understand. What does that mean? I understand I have a mission, but for what?"

-What do you mean by rehabilitation? I truly don't understand. — Ren replied.

-I shall explain it to you now… You have special potential. However, it must be refined into useful power. It is weak now, but refining it shall grant you the strength to stand against the coming ruin. That is the rehabilitation cast upon you.

Ren remembered his mentors' words and looked at Igor.

"I do have a mission, but he's avoiding explaining to me what this ruin is. I thought he was going to aid me more. And my power. He seems to know about it… but at the same time don't… Why?"

-Strength? Coming ruin? Can you explain to me how I can become stronger to avoid ruin?

-There are various means by which you may gain the power to resist the ruin. Fighting Shadows and gaining experience is one way. The fusion process I taught you prior is another.

-I see…

-This is all possible because of our master's guidance, Inmate! — Caroline exclaimed.

-Though it may be presumptuous of us, we have words of wisdom as well. — Justine said.

-When you're out, in reality, you better hone your relationships with those you have contact with! — Caroline said.

-Spending time with those people… will lead to the cultivation of your relationships with them.

-If you've time to waste, you'd better visit your contractors, Inmate! — Caroline scolded.

-That is another source of power to evade the ruin our master has mentioned. — Justine said.

-Now I understand…

"I already figured that out. Now the real question is what is that ruin Igor's talking about."

-Thanks to the contacts you've formed, your heart is steadily gaining the power of opposition. It seems the rehabilitation is going well. This is a truly joyous occasion. I shall grant you an ability befitting of your newfound growth. Consider it a gift. — Igor said.

"Odd. He doesn't sound like what Chief Nick and Chief Miles had told me about him. Better play along for now."

-Thank you. — Ren replied.

-May the devotion to your rehabilitation grow even deeper. I have high hopes for you.

Ren felt his power grow as his bond with Igor deepened. Then the Velvet Room alarm played and Ren glanced at the twins.

-The time has come. Return to your brief moments of rest. — Justine said.

-And don't forget to go talk to your contractors, Inmate! — Caroline said.

Ren nodded and went back to his bed, and after a few moments, he went back to sleep.

—

May, 6. Friday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

Lunchtime.

—

-It ain't much, but we've been gettin' more postings on the Phantom Aficionado Website. — Ryuji commented.

The trio was on the stairs, commenting about the increasing posts on the Phantom Website. Ren checked the posts and looked surprised at the number of posts.

-Wow, so many comments. — Ren noted.

-Yeah. There's one! Let's see: "I wanna make my friend apologize for not returning the stuff I lent him." — Ryuji groaned in annoyance. — Deal with that yourself!

-People think the Phantom Thieves can solve everything… — Ren commented.

-Hey, those girls…

Ann glanced at two girls talking about the Phantom Thieves and the trio decided to eavesdrop on their conversation.

-You know that Phantom Thieves rumor about stealing Kamoshida's heart? I wonder if it's true.

-It's got to be made up. Do you seriously believe they exist?

-But look at what happened to Kamoshida.

-He probably just couldn't keep hiding it after that girl tried to kill herself.

-Yeah, you might be right. I guess there's no way they really exist.

-More importantly, it seriously sucks that our school is gonna be known for stuff like this!

-I wonder if it'll affect our college entrance…

The two girls left the corridor and Ren sighed.

-As expected. At least they don't say it was me or some weird stuff… — Ren said.

-That's prolly a normal reaction for now, but they'll see soon enough. — Ryuji said. — If we can take care of two or three famous guys, people'll have to believe we exist.

-So, about those big shots… We don't have any leads yet, right? — Ann asked.

-Right. — Ren sighed again. — And then there're those rumors about me too…

-Yeah, there're the rumors about you two threatening Kamoshida too… — Ann said down.

-I bet Kobayakawa is loving that… — Ren whispered in annoyance.

-Looks like you'll just have to live a normal, honest school life for the time being. — Morgana said. — Still, make sure you stay prepared just in case anything comes up, all right?

-All right. I'll try to stay tuned for any useful information. — Ren said. — I hope Chief Nick and Chief Miles can give me some info.

-I'll keep an eye out for info on any big shots that might be comin' around. — Ryuji said.

-And I'll try to dig some dirt online. — Ann said.

-We went and formed the Phantom Thieves group, but we can't even find a target…

Ann consoled Ryuji, gently patting his back.

-There, there…

-I guess sometimes things just don't go the way we want 'em to…

Ren received a call. He saw the number and walked away.

-Excuse me, it's Chief Miles. I really need to attend this call. — Ren said taking a distance.

Ren answered the call and looked at the sides.

-Ren… — Edgeworth said.

-Chief Miles. I have some news for you. I saw him. He probably knows about us. We need to speed up our plan. — The phantom thief/attorney said.

-I see. Well, I'd believe I have some news for you as well… Our investigation is going further than we expected. We'll send the files to you right now.

—

Principal's Office.

At the same time.

—

-Did you wish to see me, Principal Kobayakawa? — A dignified student called. The principal glanced at the girl with some worry in his eyes.

-You saw the state Kamoshida-Kun was in, didn't you? — Kobayakawa asked and she nodded in affirmation. — It's as if his personality has completely changed. Something is definitely wrong here.

-I'm not sure I follow…

-From what I've heard, it appears as though some students were meddling in his business. If they did something to him… Who could they be?

-Are you saying that these students may have caused Mr. Kamoshida to change? — The student asked.

-That is what I wish to know… Even if it takes some probing into student matters… I would like you to look into this for me.

-It is true that there are many rumors regarding Mr. Kamoshida, but do you mean all of this talk about those Phantom Thieves? I've heard he was arrested in a trial, right?

-It's true but is undeniable that Mr. Kamoshida has changed in some way. I'd like to have a grasp of the cause. That shall also ensure that I handle the mass media and police in the correct fashion. — Kobayakawa replied.

-Oh…

-I will continue to speak with Mr. Kamoshida myself. Unless you find whoever did this, these irresponsible rumors will likely never die down, don't you agree?

-I'd agree but…

-You have been at the top of your grades since day one. Your conduct is good, and teachers favor you. — Then Kobayakawa smiled at the girl. — I could write you a recommendation for any college of your choosing Makoto Niijima.

-Th-Thank you…

-Your lineage must certainly play a part in this excellence. Your sister is still young, yet she holds an admirable position at the Public Prosecutor's Offices, no?

Makoto glanced in disbelief at Kobayakawa who just smiled.

-If something disappointing were to happen here, that wouldn't reflect very well on your sister… Do you understand?

-Y-Yes… — Makoto said, bowing her head. Kobayakawa laughed.

-How wise. It's no wonder you're our student council president. I'd appreciate it if you look at this as soon as possible. I ask that you begin at once.

Makoto thought for a brief moment, then she nodded her head in affirmation.

-Yes. If you'll excuse me then.

Makoto exited the room thinking about who she should investigate. Kobayakawa picked his phone and made it a call.

-It's me, sir. My apologies for troubling you at such a busy time… Yes, it's about that matter we discussed earlier… I have all the bases covered. The investigation will begin immediately… Mhm… Of course… Yes, I will get results… I should be able to update you soon… Don't worry about that scandal. I've all covered. Well then, I must be going. Thank you very much for your time…

Kobayakawa ended the call and he sighed.

-Amamiya… I must tell Niijima to keep an eye on him.

—

Class 2-D.

Afternoon.

—

The police are really here… I saw 'em at the entrance. — Ryuji texted.

I saw Chief Miles. He's working with them. — Ren replied.

I saw him too. He and the police were talking to the teachers! — Ann texted as well.

That change of heart thing's seriously amazing, huh? — Ryuji asked.

I hope they don't find out we're responsible. — Ann said.

I'm pretty sure we'll be fine. There's no proof it was us. — Ryuji said.

Better safe than sorry. We better delete our old messages just to make sure. Besides that, we don't need to worry about it. — Ren replied.

You sound sure of yourself… But I mean, haven't rumors been going around about how you guys threatened Kamoshida? — Ann asked.

This world's Kamoshida shouldn't know anything about what actually happened to him though. — Ryuji replied.

Still…

We did what was right. Don't go freaking out over some label.

Ryuji's right. Still, we'd better keep an eye. As I said before, better safe than sorry. — Ren said.

I guess that's true… — Ann replied.

Man, I really can't wait to keep living this double life! All right, Ren! We're gonna be counting on you! — Ryuji texted.

Me too.

Ren closed that conversation and he received a message from Edgeworth.

Ren, I'll give you the files now. Wait for me at the end of the class.

Okay, Chief Miles.

-Hey, Amamiya!

Ren glanced at Ushimaru who glanced at him with a furious glance.

-You! Pay attention! Is that how you listen when someone's talking to you?

-Sorry, Mr. Ushimaru. I received an important message from one of my mentors.

-It doesn't matter.

"Uh-oh. I saw that movie before! He's going to throw chalk again."

Ren saw Ushimaru throw the chalk and he dodged at the last moment, sighing in relief.

"Phew! That was a close one…"

-Whoa! That was an epic dodge!

-I can't believe he dodged Ushimaru's throw… Is he a ninja!?

-Sorry Mr. Ushimaru. I believe you dropped this. — Ren said, giving the chalk to Ushimaru and moving back to his chair.

-Tch… Whatever… Moving on.

-Good dodge. You've got the entire class's attention. — Morgana commented. Ren only smiled.

—

Class 2-D.

After School.

—

Ren checked his phone and he saw a message from Edgeworth.

I'm waiting for you at the stairs. I'd believe class had already ended.

I'm coming. — Ren replied.

-Hey…

Ren turned to Mishima who was looking at him.

-Hello Mishima. What can I do for you? — Ren asked.

-Have you seen that Phantom Aficionado Website?

-I've heard of it. Why?

-You know… I'm the one who started it.

-It was you who created the site? — Ren asked visibly surprised.

-Yes…

Mishima approached further, staring at Ren's eyes.

-Mishima…

-…You guys are the Phantom Thieves, aren't you?

-Please, personal space.

-Sorry. — Mishima said, stepping back.

-It's okay. Can I ask you something?

-Sure. — Mishima replied.

-Why'd you think we're the Phantom Thieves?

Mishima looked around and leaned forward, covering his mouth with one of his hands.

-Isn't that quite obvious. I mean, there are rumors about you, and it happens on the day you sent him, Kamoshida, to jail so it makes sense it was you guys.

-We? — Ren asked.

-Sakamoto and Takamaki. — Mishima replied. — You three become too close in a short time, aren't you?

Ren only chuckled. Mishima looked at him confused.

-Sorry, but that's quite funny. — Ren said. — I'm sorry, but we're not the Phantom Thieves.

-I see… Although, if things really are as I think, I should keep it a secret. That's the least I can do.

-What do you mean? — Ren asked.

-Kamoshida used me, and I did some horrible things to you guys. This isn't much of a way for me to apologize for it. But if there's anything I can do to help, just let me know. — Mishima replied.

Ren laughed.

-As I said, this is a misunderstanding. But I'm glad for your help. — Ren said, sitting on the desk.

-I'm glad to hear that.

-Can I know why you are doing this? — Ren asked.

-Because I want to help you guys. There are tons of evil adults out there, not only Kamoshida. But I'm sure the Phantom Thieves will do something… They can't let this end after just one target. That's why I wanted to make a forum where people could post their problems. — Mishima replied.

-I see.

-There are probably a lot of people who have high hopes for the Phantom Thieves' next move. So I've implemented an anonymous poll on the site. — Mishima said with a serious frown as he showed the site on his phone. — "Do you believe in the Phantom Thieves or not?" I wanna work on this forum so eventually, it'll be packed with tons of supportive posts. I'd really like to help out in the Phantom Thieves' acts of justice! Can I, please?

Ren sighed and nodded.

-It's up to you. If you want to help in that way.

Mishima chuckled.

-In that case, I'll just do what I want.

"I can sense Mishima has abundantly high expectations of me."

—

Unknown Place.

Unknown Time.

—

-Besides the public's reaction to your group, there were others who supported you. — Sae said.

-Yes, I do believe that's normal, isn't it Prosecutor Niijima. The Phantom Thieves have several fans.

-Not like that one. There's someone who enthusiastically cheered the Phantom Thieves on. Perhaps they were quite close…

-Quite the bold assumption, Prosecutor Niijima. What makes you say that?

-…I'd like you to answer that. What do you have to say to that?

Ren smiled.

-I can only say he did as he wanted. I'm in no way related to this.

—

May, 6. Friday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

After School.

—

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 Moon Persona,

I have obtained the winds of blessing that

Shall lead to freedom and new power…

Ren felt his power grow as he formed a new bond with Mishima. After that, he saw Edgeworth entering the classroom.

-Oh, it seems you have a visitor. See you.

-See you.

Ryuji and Ann come in Ren's direction and Miles only smiles.

-You have quite the friends. — Miles teased.

-You can say that… Did you guys hear? — Ren asked Ann and Ryuji.

-We heard all that. — Ryuji replied. — Geez… It was a little awkward tryin' to figure out when to walk over here.

-I can relate. — Ren said.

-So, the forum is Mishima-Kun's…

-For now, let it be. — Ren interrupted Ann. — As long as he doesn't tell anyone it's us it shouldn't be a problem.

-Are you certain about that, Ren? — Miles asked. — That might be dangerous for you.

-Better keep him close than keep him away.

-Wait! Has he figured out our identities? — Morgana exclaimed, surprised.

-I thought you heard our conversation. — Ren said. — But for now, it's fine. As long as he keeps it a secret, it shouldn't be a problem as I said.

-I'd agree. It'll be fine. He seemed to play it cool. — Ann said.

-I guess we should have a little chat about this later. — Ryuji said.

-I'd agree. — Ren said. — Chief Miles, you came here to give me the files, right?

-Right. Here. — Miles gave a folder to Ren. — Here's everything we'll need for that case.

-I believe that's a copy.

-One of them. The originals are safe in an unknown location.

-I see. Thank you, Chief Miles.

-We'll talk more at Wright's house.

-He has a house here!? — Ann asked, surprised.

-He rented one. Is cheaper than a hotel room and more useful for him. — Miles explained. — Well then, I need to keep investigating the psychotic breakdowns. I'll keep you informed Ren.

-Okay.

-And Morgana.

-Yes? — The human cat asked.

-Better stay quiet, for your and Ren's sake.

-I will.

-Well then, bye Ren. — Miles said

-See you later, Chief Miles. — Ren said and Miles exited the room. Ren glanced at the ceiling thoughtfully.

-A forum, huh…

-I will say though… a forum where people can post problems may prove unexpectedly useful. — Morgana said,

-I'd agree. That's why Mishima can be useful for us. — Ren said. — Maybe we can use the forum to look for a target.

-Yeah, since we're lookin' for one… — Ryuji said.

-And we need to stay sharp until we manage to find one. — Ann said. — Once we do, we'll have to head into another Palace, so we should prep our equipment and—

-Wait, oh CRAP! — Ryuji yelped.

-What's with you!? You almost gave me a heart attack! — Ann exclaimed.

-Don't we have an exam comin' up!? — Ryuji asked.

-Actually, we do. — Ren said, checking the school schedule. — Wait… Are you saying your grades are low and you didn't study until now!? — Ren exclaimed.

-…Judging by that reaction, I'd assume you're going to struggle this time too? — Ann said.

-It's not like you're any better! All you're good at is… English! — Ryuji retorted.

-I'd rather that than be bad at every subject! — Ann counterargued.

-You too, Ann!? — Ren asked in disbelief.

-Even your Japanese is questionable, Ryuji! — Morgana provoked.

-What's questionable is whether you're really a human. — Ryuji rebutted. — Ha! Good comeback, huh? — The blonde punk asked proudly.

-Let's discuss this with our fists! — Morgana replied angrily.

-Bring it!

Ren slammed the desk, surprising both.

-You two stop it right now! — Ren ordered. — Before we look for a target, we should prepare for the exams. — Ren pointed at Ryuji and Ann. — You two better study these days for the exams and no slacking off. I will know if you two study by your grades.

-But… — Both blondes argued.

-No buts. You two better study, got it? — Ren said with a rigid tone.

-Yes.

-Good. Now if you excuse me I need to study these files and I do have some things to do.

-And what 'bout ya? — Ryuji asked.

-I study every single day before I sleep. — Ren rebutted.

-That's true. I saw him study these last days. — Morgana confirmed.

-And I do expect results!

-Okay… — Ryuji sighed as he exited the classroom. — Seeya.

-Seeya.

Ren was going to leave the place when he saw Ann lost in her thoughts.

-Ann, something's wrong? — He asked.

-It felt like someone was watching me this morning… — The blonde girl replied.

-Oh, I see…

-What should I do? Maybe it wouldn't hurt to at least ask… No, but then…

-Ann?

-Yes!?

-Do you want to talk?

-U-Um never mind! It's nothing! I'm fine, seriously! Besides I don't wouldn't wanna trouble you…

"Maybe I should hear her out. She seems depressed."

-Ann, remember what I told you? You can count on me, so I want you to rely on me, okay?

-Huh? Oh right! I guess it wouldn't be so bad talking to you about this stuff… The truth is, there's something I want to tell you. It's about Shiho.

-Oh… I see. I was worried about her too. Can we talk about it?

-All right, let's go to the diner.

-Okay then.

—

Shibuya District. Shibuya diner.

After School.

—

-Thank you for coming here with me. — Ann said, taking a sip of her coffee.

-It was no problem. — Ren replied. — So, you wanted to talk about Shiho, right?

-Yeah… I want to talk about her. Well… I went to visit her in the hospital. We talked for a few hours…

-What did she say?

-She… She said she was sorry. Sorry for not telling me about Kamoshida… about all the things he was doing to her…

-I see…

-But it was my fault too. I didn't realize how much trouble she was in… I wasn't there for her… So I apologized as well.

-I see. I admire how she handles things; she is so strong.

Ann giggled and smiled.

-Isn't she? Shiho really is a great girl. I'm glad I finally got to tell her everything I couldn't bring myself to say before.

-I'm happy for you though. By the way, how is Mrs. Ayumi?

-She's fine. She said hi to you.

-Oh. Say tell her to thank you.

Ann became silent and Ren saw her averting her eyes from him.

-Something's wrong? — Ren asked.

-Remember how Kamoshida threatened to take Shiho off the team if I didn't sleep with him?

-Yes, I remember, why?

-I had only agreed to it so that I wouldn't ruin Shiho's dreams…

-So, you…

-No, I didn't.

-That's a relief.

-Yeah, but even if that did happen I doubt he'd do his part of the deal. Now that I think about it, he never would have put her on the bench at the cost of his team… I seriously should have dared him to try to take her starting spot.

-I see.

-…But in the end, maybe I just didn't believe in her ability.

-You might be right. I know you don't want to doubt her, but…

-I knew it… I'm so stupid. All of this happened because of how weak I am. That's why I believed Kamoshida's authority outweighed Shiho's own ability to earn her starting spot.

-I understand your point. But I do believe you did for her sake. It wasn't to be mean.

-Yeah, I know. Still, I shouldn't have doubted her.

-I understand.

-Ren, do you remember the last time I talked to you like this? When I got that phone call from Kamoshida… and cried.

-Yes, I do.

-Do you know how I felt? I felt so alone… scared, even… but because you were there for me, I decided not to go. I was a little surprised at how pushy you were about it… but I see now you just wanted to help. Thanks.

-As I said before it was nothing, I simply couldn't let you there. I know how you felt, I felt the same before. But thanks to my mentors I was saved as well.

-You're so kind, Ren… You know back then, people used to call me all sorts of names. "Prissy bitch", "Kamoshida's girl"… I got tired of them pretty quickly.

-I know how you feel.

-But to tell the truth, someday I want to be able to take the labels like that in stride.

Ren gave a light laugh.

-What's so funny? — Ann asked, confused.

-You know, I kinda noticed how you and Ryuji are similar.

-Really!?

-Yeah, you two were dedicated to your friends, to your beliefs. Both are hard-heads… It's truly admirable.

-I see… You know…

-Yes…?

-Personas are the power of the heart, right?

-Right, why?

-That means if my heart gets stronger, my Persona will too.

-Yes.

-So… I want to strengthen my heart. And I want to use that strength to help people around me. I hope we can save people from trouble, just like we did when we changed Kamoshida's heart.

-I see. Well, then I'll help you.

-Thanks. Though honestly… I don't even know what "strength" is. But I'm going to find the answer, I promise.

-Honestly, I don't have a proper answer for that, but if you want, we can find the answer together.

-Huh? Really!?

-Really. I promise we'll find the answer together.

-Thanks! I feel like I'm a little stronger already! — Ann giggled again. — But I guess that doesn't really count though, huh?

-Maybe you're right.

-Well, I'll be relying on you. Let's train together and make our hearts super strong!

-Let's.

"I can feel her determination to become stronger."

Ren felt Ann's determination as his power grew even stronger.

-A strong heart… Hmmm…

-Do you have an idea of how to strengthen your heart?

-Yeah! How about this: I won't get any refills on fountain drinks! I mean they're free, so not getting any would mean you have a strong heart!

Ren shook his head.

-I'd believe that is not how that works.

-Is that not right?

-Nope. You don't need to do that to have a strong heart, so you don't need to worry about that.

"Perhaps that will be more difficult than I thought…" Ren commented to himself.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Evening.

—

Ren heard his phone ring and quickly answered the call.

-Oh hey, it's me! Thanks for listening to what I had to say earlier. — Ann said.

-I'm glad I've helped you. — Ren replied.

-Now I feel like I have a better idea of who I want to be. Also, I'm going to think of how I can strengthen my heart. If I think of anything, I'll let you know. I hope you'll join me again next time!

-Okay. Leave it to me.

-Yeah, I'm counting on you! You're such a nice guy!

-Thanks.

-Oh! How about you help me come up with ways to train my heart?

-Okay, I'll figure out a way to help you out.

-Just lemme know when a really good idea hits you, okay?

-Okay. Call me if you need anything.

-Okay! Byeee!

Ren snickered, nodding his head.

"She's determined at least."

Ren went into the Leblanc and Sojiro was waiting for him. He quickly throw a key and Ren caught it before it hit his face.

-What's that? — He asked.

-That's the key to this place. — Sojiro replied.

-Why are you giving me the key to Leblanc?

-You get to lock up from now on. I can't keep waiting for you to come home.

-Okay then.

-Don't start any fires, okay?

-Okay. Hey, can I go to Shibuya? I need to get a part-time job there.

-You can, as long as you don't come back late.

Ren nodded and went upstairs.

-So, we're going to Shibuya?

-Not today. We'd better study for now. I have exams coming up and I just need to make sure Sojiro won't complain about me working out so late.

-I see… Well then, good luck.

Ren changed his clothes and with the file and his books in his hands he went back to the store.

-I will study for now.

-Okay, don't stay awake so late.

-Okay.

Ren studied the rest of the night, the file, and the subjects of school. After midnight we went back to sleep.

—

May, 6. Friday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

Rooftop.

After School.

—

-So, any good leads? — Ren asked as he studied the file.

-You are still studying that file? — Morgana asked.

-I need to. Actually, I'm studying Kamoshida's case as well. I need to be prepared for the next trial. — Ren replied, keeping his focus on the lecture. — So Ryuji, any good lead?

-No. None of these posts are any good. Everyone's just bitchin' about their parents or their boyfriends. — Ryuji replied seeing the posts on his phone. — There ain't even a hint of a hint about a new Palace.

-Yeah… But y'know, we can't get everything online… Finding a post with a name and location is asking a lot…

-That's true… At least we'll have time to study for now. The exams are next Wednesday, so we need to get prepared. Then we can go after a new target… — Ren sighed. — I wish I had new cases…

-Guess we just gotta find one ourselves then… — Ryuji said.

-Are you seriously suggesting we look for a target that even the police have overlooked? — Morgana asked.

-Why not? I mean, we can listen to rumors about big people. We'll find a name and location eventually. After all, rumors sometimes tend to have some shred of truth. — Ren said calmly. — But not now. We need to prepare for the exams, remember?

-Yeah, you two're right. We should prolly just hold off 'til exams are done with, huh? — Ryuji asked.

-Right.

-Dude are you still readin' this? — Ryuji exclaimed surprised.

-I need to stay sharp. — Ren shrugged.

-Well we can wait and see for a little longer, then worry about comin' up empty-handed if it happens.

-Sounds like a plan to me.

Ren heard someone coming from the stairs, making the trio shivered in nervousness.

-Quickly Morgana, hide!

Morgana did as Ren ordered and the trio saw Makoto coming in their direction. She stood in front of them with a rigid frown.

-This place is off-limits, you know. — She said.

-…We'll get outta here once we're done chattin'. Anyways what's Miss Council President want with us? — Ryuji asked.

"So, she's the famous Council President…" Ren commented mentally, finally paying attention to the brunette girl. He noticed her brown-reddish eyes and slightly inclined his head. "She really resembles her sister, in appearance and behavior. Better not underestimate her."

-The troublemaker, the center of gossip, and the infamous transfer student. Hmm, an interesting combination.

"She's already connecting the dots? I shouldn't expect anything less from the Niijima's."

-I'm sorry, but what'd you want? We're not bothering anyone here, and it's quite obvious you didn't come here on your own. — Ren said.

-Yeah… And a great way to start a conversation… — Ann retorted angrily.

-Nothing, nothing at all. By the way… It seems as though you three got to know Mr. Kamoshida pretty well. — Makoto commented.

"Subtle she isn't." Ren thought.

-Perhaps. Didn't Mr. Kobayakawa tell you I was responsible for sending him to jail?

-So it was you… I thought the rumors were fake. — The brunette said.

-I didn't threaten him if that's what you were implying. Perhaps you've heard about your sister's last case. — Ren replied calmly as ever.

-! How did you know about that? — She was surprised. Ren picked up his bag and took a file inside of it.

-Read the file.

She did as Ren ordered.

-Interesting… Wait. Why is your name written here as the lead defense attorney?

-Because I was the lead attorney of the defense of the case.

-What?

-Wait, you didn't know? I thought even your sister commented about me. — Ren said surprised.

-You defeated my sister!? Impossible… — Makoto commented even more surprised than the black-haired attorney.

-It is, otherwise, we probably wouldn't be here.

-Hm… I see… I heard Mr. Kamoshida used a volleyball team member to spread details of your past record.

-Quite the inconvenience I need to deal with now.

-Don't you hate him?

Ren raised one of his eyebrows.

-Who?

-Mr. Kamoshida.

-What's all this about? My friend here's an upstanding guy. — Ryuji exclaimed irritated, and Ren raised a hand, sighing.

-It's okay, Ryuji. No, I don't hate him. I feel pity for him if that's what you want to know. And you?

-Me?

-Did Kobayakawa send you to investigate us? Subtle you aren't. It's quite obvious he sent you after us.

-!

-You may be smart, but you need to be at least more discrete if you want to interrogate someone.

-I don't mean to offend. Many students have been shaken up by what happened with Mr. Kamoshida. And the rumors about that are odd. Calling card-esque postings aren't going away either.

Ren shook his head in negation, staring at Makoto. Ann and Ryuji looked at each other.

-Ms. Niijima, if that's why you came, I'm afraid you're simply wasting your time.

-Huh?

-Yeah, I didn't expect someone like you would care about that tactless stuff, Niijima-senpai. — Ann commented.

-I dunno that it was tactless… — Ryuji said and Ann gave a deadly glance.

-Are we done here? — Ren asked.

-Yeah, we can't leave if you keep talkin' to us. — Ryuji said.

-At least try to understand my position. Being forced to deal with this horseplay…

-Horseplay!? — Ann exclaimed furiously.

-Ms. Niijima, if I were you I would hold my tongue. My friends here don't find that mere horseplay, after all, there were victims of Mr. Kamoshida as well. If you're done, we're leaving. And don't worry we are not going to come back here. — Ren said calmly.

-Ah yes, by the way… It's been decided that this place will be closed off due to the incident. I heard some people are coming up here without permission after all. I'm sorry to have interrupted you. — Makoto said ready to left the rooftop.

-What was that about? — Ann asked furiously, but Makoto just ignored her.

-Ms. Niijima. — Ren called.

-Yes? — Makoto turns back to Ren.

-You're not the police, neither your sister, so it's better for you if you don't get into this.

-What?

-The case has been solved. If you don't believe me, you can have this file. I already filled it and you can have all the time you need, as long you give me back. The police are just seeing if that is related anyhow to the psychotic breakdown incidents, not that I can blame them, since these incidents are increasing somehow…

Makoto picked the file and looked at Ren.

-If you don't believe me, ask your sister. She can confirm that.

-Thank you… — She said, confused and astounded.

-Any one more thing. — Ren said.

-Yes?

-Say to your sister Phoenix Wright said hi to her.

-Huh? Do you know Phoenix Wright? — She asked surprised.

-He's one of my mentors.

-Oh… I will. Well then, I'll be going now.

Makoto exited the rooftop. Ren looked at the door of the rooftop with a serious glance, putting the file he was reading back into his bag.

-She's onto us. — Morgana said, jumping back to the desks.

-She's sharp. We should be careful. — Ren said. — Knowing her sister, we better don't underestimate her as well.

-I'd agree. We should be cautious of her. — Morgana said.

-She really pisses me off! — Ann said angrily.

-She's figured us out. It means we need another place to meet. — Ren said.

-Talk about a pain in the ass… — Ryuji commented, annoyed.

-That reminds me… Study hard. Especially you, Ryuji. There are bound to be traps that will need to be solved with brains. Keep in mind that everything you do in your daily life has an impact on your abilities. — Morgana said.

-True, studying won't be so bad if we just think of it as helping us to prepare as phantom thieves… — Ann said.

-I guess you got a point… But man, it's just so lame… I was all fired up about helpin' people, not about studying. — Ryuji commented.

-It's important to study, or do you guys think I just passed the Bar exam by luck? We need to excise our minds in order to stay sharp in battle. Strategy is everything. — Ren said.

-That's true. Still, it's lame… — Ryuji said.

-Well, I do have somewhere interesting to show you beforehand. You guys did originally promise to help me out with my mission after all.

-Now you mentioned it, you never said what your mission is. — Ren said with an edge of curiosity.

-Huh? Mission? — Ryuji asked, confused.

-Don't tell me you already forgot!? — Ren exclaimed, surprised.

-I knew you would say that. Well, follow me!

—

Shibuya District. Shibuya Station.

After School.

—

-What're you bringin' us here for? — Ryuji asked.

The trio was at the Shibuya Station, sitting close to the stairs. Ren looked around, seeing if he had been followed.

-No one followed us… Go ahead. — Ren said.

-Just do as I told you. — Morgana said.

Ryuji with his phone in his hands quickly opened the browser and accessed the Phantom Aficionado Website.

-All right, I've got the Phantom Aficionado Website. Now what?

-Look for a post with a full name in it.

-I already said there's no info on any big shots, don't you remember? But man, people actually go put someone's real name on here. That's some scary shit…

-What's the person's name? — Ren asked.

-"He won't listen to what I say"… No wait, there's no name on this one. — Ann said checking the site as well.

-"Someone's bad-mounting me in online chat rooms"… This one's got a name.

-Ignore those. Aren't there any posts about more serious trouble? — Morgana asked.

-Here's one: "I don't know what to do about my ex who's stalking me. His name is Natsuhiko Nakanohara." — Ann read one of the posts. — It says he's a teller at the City Hall.

-A government worker's stalkin' someone? — Ryuji asked with an edge of disappointment.

-That should be a suitable target. All right! Now get the Meta-Nav ready.

-We're gonna jump right into a Palace? Fine by me. — Ryuji said excitedly.

-Hey, what happened to all that talk of "unanimous decision"? What do you think we should do, Ren? — Ann asked.

-Morgana wants to show us something, so we need to do this. So, let's go.

-That's what I'm talkin' about! — Ryuji said.

-Okay then, let's go. — Ann said unsure.

-Okay, we got a name. Now, what do we do? — Ren said with his phone in his hands, opening the Metaverse Navigator.

-Don't we need a name and location? — Ryuji asked.

-Actually, we don't need a location this time. Just enter exactly what I say. The key word is… "Mementos".

-Mementos… huh? Let's see… It's in Romaji, right?

-Right.

-What're you tryin' to pull? — Ryuji asked.

-Don't worry, it should work… I think. — Morgana replied.

-Geez, that again? — Ryuji asked annoyed.

Ren finished typing and entered the keyword in the Meta-Nav.

-I inserted the keyword. Now— What!? We got a hit!

-Really!? Wait, you're right! — Ryuji said.

-Just as I thought!

The entire place started to get distorted. Waves of energy spread over the town as the Meta-Nav dragging them into the Metaverse. Once they were done, they looked around and they were caught by surprise to see all the crowds disappeared.

-Everyone's disappeared! — Ann exclaimed, surprised. — It… kind of feels like I'm… walking on air?

-Is this that Nakanohara guy's Palace? — Ryuji asked, surprised as well.

-That's half right but half wrong.

-What do you mean? — Ren asked.

-This is a type of Palace, but it's different from the normal ones. — Morgana replied.

-I see…

-Come on, let's head down. The Shadows here lurk underground. I don't quite understand why. It may be because they're drawn to something.

-Are you saying there's a "Palace" here, but you don't know why? Great. Just great. — Ren said.

-Underground? How are we going to get there?

Ren looked at the stairs and pointed to them.

-Escalator, remember? — Ren said in an acid tone. — We're in a train station, so it's obvious we need to go there. Am I right?

-Always quick to catch up with things… Now, follow me!

They went underground and to their surprise, their clothes changed to their Phantom Thieves outfit. After that they looked around, surprised to see the station had changed to something entirely different. They saw some stairs going even more down, going to the depths of the earth.

-The hell is this place? — Ryuji asked, astounded. — And our clothes changed…

-The Shadows know we're here!? — Ann asked, surprised.

-Since the moment we step here. — Morgana replied.

-Quite obvious. The real question is the one Skull made. What's this place, Mona? — Ren said.

-You should've told us. — Ryuji complained.

-That's a safe place. I can't see any Shadows here. — Ren said using the Vision of Truth. — They're underground. Even more down. I can see several of them. Wait. This place was several floors and they are changing… What the hell is this place…?

-You can see this place like this!? — Morgana exclaimed in surprise. — You truly are something Joker. — As you said, there are several Shadows here. I've come here to investigate several times, and the Shadows never come up to this floor. But it's a different story once you go down. This place is simply teeming with them.

-So, this is a type of hive of Shadows… — Ren said aloud.

-You could say that…

-More importantly, what is this Mementos!? It's about time you start explaining. — Ann exclaimed, confused and angrily.

-Can't you see Panther? This place is Mementos. — Ren said.

-Exactly… And it's everyone's Palace. — Morgana explained.

-Whaddya mean "everyone's"? — Ryuji asked confused.

-Skull, that means it's a place created by everyone's desires. Kamoshida's Palace is a manifestation of a desire which is extremely twisted. You can say it's a type of exception, a rare occurrence.

-Exactly. A Palace as grand as the previous castle only forms when a person's desires are extremely distorted. — Morgana said.

-Basically saying a Palace is like a beacon while Mementos, however, is like a hive. A place people share as their own Palace. — Ren explained.

-Exactly. Instead of many individual Palaces, the general public has one gigantic shared Palace. This is basically the place we are now… Mementos.

-Now you guys mentioned it, this place feels a bit different from Kamoshida's Palace.

-When you said shared… you mean they're all put together? Even though they're just strangers? — Ryuji asked.

-Think of it as the collective unconscious… No never mind. You wouldn't understand that.

-Think of it as a… You know what? Forget it. I have to agree with Mona for once.

-Hey.

-Think of a dormitory. Easy, right?

-Now I understand. But why a dormitory?

Ren sighed.

-You are really something sometimes, Skull. — Ren said with an edge of disappointment.

-So, what are you guys saying… Using this place, we can even change the hearts of people who don't have a Palace? — Ann asked.

-Exactly.

-Correct! The steps to do so are slightly different though.

-You mean the rules are almost the same. — Ren said. — How much?

-And how're we gonna find that guy? This place looks pretty huge. Are we gonna be able to get around just by walkin'? — Ryuji asked.

Morgana jumped to an empty space and glanced at the trio with a serious frown.

-It seems the time has finally come…

-Wait, what do you mean—

-Morgana… Transform!

Morgana jumped in the air and transformed itself into a van.

-What the eff!?

-Wow!

-Impressive!

-Come on, Panther. Ladies first. — Morgana said happily.

-You've heard him. Let's get in. — Ren said.

-A car…? — Ann exclaimed perplexed.

-No way… — Ryuji said perplexed as well.

-I do admit, you hide some of the best tricks I've ever seen, Mona. — Ren said with a smile.

-Thanks. This comes from the way cognition materializes in the Metaverse, plus a bit of extra training. It's not dissimilar to how you guys transform. — Morgana explained.

-I see… It's a matter of cognition. — Ren said.

"I think I saw a movie when a cat turns into a car before. And there's a comic too if I remember correctly." Ren thought.

-You turnin' into a car is totally different than our clothes changin'! — Ryuji exclaimed.

-For some reason, "cats turning into buses" is an extremely widespread cognition among the general public.

-Why a bus though? — Ann asked.

-…No idea. — Morgana replied and Ren laughed. — What's so funny?

-Mona, I'll show you why on YouTube. Some videos can explain the origin of that expression for you. — Ren said. — And if I remember some works of fiction can be the explanation for that. But I need to remember the title of the movie…

-Why didn't he do that at the castle!? — Ryuji asked as he got into Morgana.

-Hey, Skull! Ladies first. — Ann said going into the car as well.

-I would if I could! But the castle was cramped, there were tons of stairs, and no way this fits on the top of a chandelier! — Morgana replied with annoyance as Ryuji got in.

-That kind of obvious. Besides as a car, he wouldn't be as stealthy as his usual form. — Ren said with disappointment as he got into the driver's seat.

-Stop pullin' me! That's dangerous!

-Panther! Please be gentle.

-I'm dealing with kids here!? Now everyone be quiet! — Ren ordered angrily and everyone did as he ordered. — If the kids stop fighting, we need to go. We don't have time to waste.

Ryuji and Ann looked at him confused. — What? He's a car. It's obvious someone needs to drive.

-Dude, really? — Ryuji asked. — Not doubtin' your skills, but…

-Can't Morgana drive by himself? — Ann asked.

-Unfortunately, I can't. I'm a car, remember. — Morgana replied.

-And it's better if I assume the driver position since I know how to drive. — Ren replied calmly.

-Do you know how to drive? — Ann asked, impressed.

-I learn defensive direction because of Chief Miles, although…

-Although what? — Ryuji asked.

-I don't have a driver's license for this type of vehicle. Sorry… — Ren said with an apologetic smile.

-THAT'S what you worried about!? — Ann asked.

-Hey, my license only allows me to drive motorcycles under 50 CC. Don't blame me if I cause an accident!

-But you can drive? — Morgana asked.

-Of course, I can! I mean, I had to learn due to my… situation.

-What the hell you got yourself into!? — Ryuji, Ann, and Morgana asked.

-Don't even ask… But the important thing here is I know how to drive. — Ren replied dryly.

-If you say so. Now start the engine! You can't drive if it's not running.

-I know that. I'm not an amateur at driving.

-What a pain… Where's the key to this thing? — Ryuji asked, going to the front seat.

-Why would you need a key!? There's a switch just down next to the steering wheel. — Morgana said.

-Found it. — Ren said, flicking the switch.

-Hey, that tickles. Lower! Lower! — Morgana said laughing.

Ren started the engine and Morgana started to purr.

-Oh, there… That feels so goooood.

-Uh, is that a purrin' I hear? What a creep-ass car! — Ryuji said.

-Skull… — Ren said as he shifted the gear to the first march.

-Don't underestimate my meowtary engine. We're going full throttle! It's time to fly!

-You guys heard Mona. Hold tight everyone! — Ren said as he hit on the gas pedal and the car flew downstairs towards the tracks. Once on the tracks, Ren started to wander around the floor, looking for their target.

-Man… This place totally does feel like a Palace… — Ryuji commented.

-Yeah, I guess it'd be strange driving on the tracks like this in the real world… — Ann commented.

-True. It's not a nice thing I have to admit. — Ren said. — So, where's our target?

-Yeah, Nakanohara's somewhere in here, right? — Ann asked.

-Most likely in a segment of his own creation. Don't worry, it won't be the size of a Palace.

-So we need to find the entrance of that segment. — Ren said, taking a turn.

-Correct.

-And what's this entrance gonna look like? — Ryuji questioned.

-I have no idea, but strong distortions should be a pretty obvious visual clue. — Morgana replied.

-So we just gotta go wanderin' around for it then? What a goddamn pain in the ass…

-Better than everyone having their own Palace. It'll be a nightmare if it was like that. — Ren commented as he looked around with the Vision of Truth. — Oddly, I can't see a strong distortion on this floor. Perhaps he's not here… I guess.

"Now when I think about it… Igor doesn't mention my new power. What does that mean?" Ren commented to himself, almost losing himself in his thoughts. Then, he saw a strong distortion.

-I saw it! Let's go.

Going in their direction, they fought against some Shadows on their way and even found a treasure chest. Then Ren saw on one path the tracks went out off the ground, being sucked into a void of darkness.

-It seems we have found our entrance. — Ren said, hitting the brakes and stopping in front of the entrance.

-Dude, are you sure of it? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes.

-The hell!? Dude look at this!? It's all wavy and shit.

-This is the place… I sense the target up ahead. — Morgana confirmed. — Now, are you guys ready?

-Ready! — Ryuji and Ann replied.

-Joker?

-Let's go! I hope you guys are ready because it'll be a tough ride.

Ren stepped on the gas and rushed towards the void. Reaching the other side, they stopped before hitting the end of the tracks. Getting out of Morgana, they saw someone standing in the middle of the room.

-Hey, someone's there! — Ryuji exclaimed.

-That seems to be Nakanohara's Shadow. — Morgana said.

-Lemme see. Some front desk guy at the City Hall became a stalker, right?

-Right. — Ren replied.

-I don't know how much evil he's done, but we have to do something if he's bothering other people. — Ann said seriously.

-I hope everyone's ready. We'll go to talk to him. — Ren said.

-All right, just be careful Joker. — Morgana said.

Ren approached and Shadow Nakanohara immediately turned in his direction.

-Who are you!? — He asked afraid.

-Are you the stalker!? Haven't you ever stopped to consider how your ex feels? — Ann yelled.

-She's my property! I can do whatever I want with her. It's not like she didn't treat me as a plaything! What's wrong with me doing the same!? — Shadow Nakanohara retorted.

-You can't treat someone like shit just 'cause they did it to you! What a load of crap… — Ryuji complained.

-Shut up!

-It doesn't matter if she did that to you, you simply can't do that. We'll change your heart! — Ren said.

-That's right! We're gonna change all the hearts of all the bastards like you! — Ryuji exclaimed.

-There are millions of people far worse than me! — Nakanohara said.

-I do agree. There are people worse than you. But that doesn't justify your actions. — Ren replied calmly as always.

-If you guys are going to change people's hearts, why don't you start with Madarame? What about him? He stole everything from me, but you're letting him off the hook!?

-Madarame? The hell's this guy goin' on about? — Ryuji asked.

-Wait. Madarame? Are you talking about that Madarame? The artist? — Ren asked surprised.

-So do you know him!

Shadow Nakanohara assumed his true form becoming a short troll.

-I will take you down! Now that I finally have what's rightfully mine… I'm not going to let you take it away…

-Get ready! Here he comes! — Morgana yelled.

-Look… This is a winner-takes-all world. Come fight me and I'll show you what I mean!

-I will. — Ren replied.

The battle started and Ann struck with her whip and Morgana attacked with his slingshot.

-Persona! Pixie! Zio!

The electrical attack knocked Shadow Nakanohara down and the phantom thieves performed an All-Out Attack. However, they barely managed to take him down. Nakanohara used a physical skill almost knocking Ann out.

-You'll pay for that! Captain Kidd! Zio!

Ryuji knocked Nakanohara down and they performed another All-Out Attack. After that, Morgana and Ann focused on recovery as Ryuji and Ren attacked with their Personas. After knocking him down one more time, they finished with an All-Out Attack. Shadow Nakanohara turned back into his normal form, defeated. He was panting heavily and looked at the thieves with sorrow.

-I-I'm sorry… Please forgive me… I-I couldn't stop obsessing… N-Not after this person, I trusted used me and then disposed of me. — He said.

-You meant Madarame…

-Hold on, are you talkin' about that guy you mentioned earlier… Madarame? — Ryuji asked.

-Yes. I… was afraid of being thrown away again like some worthless thing, like before… — Shadow Nakanohara explained.

-So some selfish bastard was making you suffer too… — Ann said with an edge of pity. — Still, you shouldn't have dragged an unrelated woman into your mess.

-Yes, I know that now. I'll put an end to my love for her…

-Don't worry, I'm sure she'll forgive you. — Ren said with an assuring smile.

-…Hey, you can change people's hearts, right? — Shadow Nakanohara asked.

-Yes. — Ren replied.

-In that case… Won't you change Madarame's heart!? Before more people fall victim to him…

-We will. That's a promise.

-Thank you… Now I can leave to my real self…

Shadow Nakanohara disappeared, leaving his heart to the thieves.

-Changing… Madarame's heart? — Ann asked.

-Hey, what's that shinin' thing? — Ryuji asked.

-Nakanohara's heart. — Ren replied.

-Exactly. It's more specifically the bud of a Treasure. Had we let it be, it very well may have blossomed into a Palace.

-Seeing how he was before; it was a matter of when. — Ren commented.

-Joker, this will make a perfect reward! That can become a powerful item that can help us in our mission.

-I see… — Ren took Nakanohara's heart and saw the object carefully. — It's an accessory. It might be helpful on our next mission.

-So Nakanohara had a change of heart, right? — Ryuji asked.

-Right. — Ren answered.

-Most likely actually. — Morgana corrected.

-But how are we supposed to know if we succeeded? — Ann asked.

-The lady posted the dude's name online. If he really does change, she'll prolly comment again. — Ryuji said.

-Exactly. Now then, we have a new thing to investigate. — Ren said with a serious frown.

-Madarame. — Morgana said.

-He'll probably be our next target, so we need to get prepared. — Ren said determinedly.

-Trainin' against Shadows down here's the best! It's great prep for our next target. — Ryuji said excitedly.

-You are absolutely right, Skull. We should spend some time strengthening ourselves for our next target.

-And It's also nice to be able to give courage to the people who post their problems online. — Ann said happily.

-On top of that, we can sell whatever treasure we get for some cold, hard cash!

-Sounds like things are goin' pretty great for us! All right, we did it!

-Hold on. There's somewhere I want to show you guys before we leave.

-What, there's more? — Ryuji asked confused.

-What is it? — Ren asked curiously.

-Don't worry, it won't take long. But first, let's leave this room. — Morgana said as he transformed back into his car form. The thieves went into the bus and Ren started the engine.

-So? What else do you wanna do? — Ryuji asked.

-There's something I'd like to check in the area further down. — Morgana said.

-I saw a platform during our search for Nakanohara's room. We are not too far from it. Let's go.

-Wait, you've been here before, right? Don't you get like a map or something? — Ryuji asked Morgana.

-I wish. That would have no meaning in this place. The layout changes every time you enter. — Morgana explained.

-Wait, so our path changes too!? — Ann exclaimed in surprise.

-This place is a fused cognition of a countless number of people. It's constantly shifting. — Morgana explained.

-That explains the instability I saw before. This place is changing due to people's unconscious cognition. — Ren said.

-Which reminds me, what happened to you? You said you can see the place changing.

-During Kamoshida's trial, my headaches became severe, to a point I barely could stand on my feet properly. The thing was when I cross-examined him, I felt my vision change and I saw his Shadow. — Ren replied.

-His… Shadow…? — Morgana asked confused.

-Yes. At the same time, I could see and hear the real Kamoshida. I was able to convince him to tell the truth by tricking his Shadow.

-So you used his Shadow to trick him.

-Not I'm sure how I did that, but that allows me to see things I couldn't see before. I don't know how that happened, but it just happened. Now I have this power.

-I see. Well, with that, you can see the new paths forming, right?

-Right. We are not too far from the platform. Let's go.

Ren went to the platform and exited Morgana. When he went to the stairs, he heard a loud sound of a train coming up.

-Hold on a sec… You guys hearin' somethin'? — Ryuji asked.

-Everyone comes to the platform right now! The train's coming. — Ren said.

They did as Ren ordered and they saw the train stopping at the platform on the other side. Ren saw several people going outside the train cars and other people went in.

-The trains're totally runnin'!

-Of course, they are. We're in the subway, you know. — Morgana replied acid.

-It's impressive. — Ren said.

-Yeah, but I thought this was a Palace! — Ryuji said.

-Then maybe this is how the public views this place? I don't know. — Morgana answered.

-People go through this darkness… every day? — Ann asked.

-Maybe this is a way to see how society is connected. Transportation is one of the most important ways to advance society. It's a way to see it since the train and the subways are some of the most essential ways of locomotion nowadays. — Ren thought aloud.

-Wow. I have never seen it from that perspective. — Morgana said.

-Forget that! You sure we're cool runnin' around on these tracks!? — Ryuji asked.

-It should be fine as long as we're not on the same ones… I think. I'm no train expert.

-You gotta be kiddin' me…

-If you guys are done, we'll need to go to a lower area. This escalator here will lead us there. — Ren said.

Going down, they went to the lower area composed of a large corridor surrounded by trains.

-All right, there is it! The thing I want to make sure of is inside!

-There's a wall on the other side

-Kind of. Let me show you.

They went to the other side of the corridor and Morgana approached the door.

-…What is this place? It's kinda creepy… — Ann commented.

-And a dead end at that. Why's it even exist? — Ryuji asked.

-It's not a dead end. — Ren stated.

-Exactly. Now hold on and just watch. This is most likely not an ordinary wall. If my hunch is correct…

Morgana touched the wall and then the wall opened, revealing escalators going even lower. The sign turned on, revealing the name of the place.

-A new area has been confirmed in the depths. Updating guidance information. — The Metaverse Navigator annunciated.

-It opened. — Ann exclaimed.

-As I thought. It's a safe door, at least a kind of door. You couldn't open it before, correct? — Ren asked.

-Yes.

-Huh!? What do you mean? — Ann asked confused.

-Can't you two see it? — Ren asked. — This is a sealed wall. A measure to guarantee no one will go lower.

-Exactly. That wall wouldn't budge when I came here by myself before. But it'd be weird for the deepest part of Mementos to be some normal place like this, wouldn't it?

-So you thinkin' there's gotta be more? — Ryuji asked.

-Yeah.

-And you simply saw a link between Kamoshida and this new area… When we erased his Palace, people started to talk about us. That was enough to open this new area — Ren said. — That means this place is a segmentation.

-Exactly! And I knew something had to change down here! — Morgana stated.

-How deep is it? Should we try going further down? — Ann asked.

-Better another day. We're not here for that, remember? — Ren said.

-Exactly. We've already accomplished our goal. We should head back and I'll explain more once we're home. — Morgana said.

-Right. Let's head back to the entrance.

They headed back to the entrance and there they saw a child looking at a yellow bubble of energy floating in the air, with flowers inside of it. A cyan buggy was parked on his side, full of several packages on his trunk, to a point the packages were tied up by ropes. The child had his focus on the bubble, not noticing the thieves' presence. Ren was surprised as everyone else, especially because his appearance was similar to the twin wardens of the Velvet Room, except for his outfit, a white jacket, black pants, and aviator glasses.

-Hey, look! — Ann exclaimed.

-A person!? In Mementos!? — Morgana exclaimed in surprise.

-Not a mere person. — Ren said surprised as well, but calmly as he could be. — Look more carefully.

The boy ignored them, as he extended his hand. The bubble became a glass full of yellow juice, with a flower inside.

-Hmm… Maybe it's this one… — He took a sip of his drink and smiled happily. — Ohh… Tasty!

-Hey, what's he drinkin'? — Ryuji asked Morgana, who shook his head, not knowing the answer for that.

-Oh? — The boy glanced at them with some surprise. — Hmm, I thought I felt something strange for a moment…

"He looks like a puppet." Ren thought noticing more carefully the appearance of the boy, noticing some parts of him were man-made.

-So, who're you guys?

-WE should be asking YOU that! — Morgana said, jumping in astoundment with the child's behavior.

-Good point. Sorry about that. It's customary for a human to introduce themselves before asking another human for its name. Thanks for reminding me, Misterrrr… um, Tanuki? No, um… Hmm… Cat?

Ren laughed as Morgana jumped in anger.

-What took so long to come up with "Cat"!? And I'm not either of those! — Morgana replied with an irritation

-Yeah, uh, gettin' confused about that seems pretty normal to me. — Ryuji said.

Ren laughed even louder after Ryuji's comment.

-Okay, sorry, but what's your name? — Ren asked.

-My name is Jose. I'm looking for flowers. I'm pretty surprised to see some normal humans running around. I didn't know people could just come here.

"Imagine if we see some people I know." Ren thought.

-I'm surprised to see you as well. — Ren replied. — And we're not mere humans.

-That's not important! — Morgana exclaimed. — Who YOU are is what matters right now!

"Human he's not." Ren thought seeing he wasn't a normal person. "Which makes the question: What is he?"

-When you said you're looking for flowers, did you mean that floating thing?

-That's right, pretty lady. — Jose replied. — Those seem to be the ones I've been looking for. I'm collecting as many of 'em as I can 'cause I'm studying humans.

-Studying humans? That's why you turned a flower into a drink? — Ryuji asked.

-Yup.

-So, you're studying humans, right? — Ren asked.

-Yup.

-Drinkin' flower juice counts as studying…? — Ryuji asked perplexed.

-Don't. Even. Think. About. It. Skull. — Ren said with a deadly glance.

-Okay! — Ryuji exclaimed frightened.

-Hey, could you guys help me with my research?

-How? — Ann asked.

-By collecting flowers for me. I wouldn't ask you to do it for free, though.

-Hm. So, what are you gonna do for us? — Ren asked.

-I find all the kinds of stuff you can use while you explore. I'll trade you some of that stuff for more flowers.

"That explains why his buggy is so packed up." Ren thought.

-Whaddya think? Should we try an' get him some flowers? — Ryuji asked.

-Seems like it could do us some good, but we don't know this kid… We gotta be careful. — Morgana said.

-Oh, I'm sure he's fine. Let's give him a hand. He seems like he could use it, and it shouldn't be too hard to pick flowers while we're exploring, right? — Ann said.

-Okay, any OTHER reasons? — Ryuji asked, knowing the real reason behind Ann's motive. She giggled happily.

-He called me "pretty lady". — Ann replied.

-Nooo! Lady Ann…

Ryuji sighed, shook his head in disappointment as Ren laughed.

-Eh, it's prolly fine. I mean, he said he'd give us useful stuff an' all. — Ryuji said with a smile. — Whaddya say?

-Well, are you going to help me find the flowers or not? — Jose asked and Ren smiled at him.

-Okay, we'll help you, Jose. — Ren replied.

-Thanks!

-Wait, wait, hang on a sec! We still have no idea who this kid is! — Morgana tried to argue.

-Better than having him as our enemy. — Ren whispered.

-Still, we should be careful. — Then Morgana turned to Jose and said — Don't go thankin' yet bud!

-Aw, are you tired, kitty? You seem grumpy. — Jose asked with concern.

-I am NOT a cat! And I'm NOT grumpy!

-Hey! — Ren scolded.

-O-Oh, okay—then, are you hungry? I learned hunger can make a person turn grumpy. — Jose took a cookie from one of his pockets. — Here, you can have this.

-Thanks, but I'll pass… — Morgana politely refused the treat. Ryuji only sighed. — What was that for?

-You're makin' the kid worry about ya even more. Guess there's no way outta this one.

Morgana bowed in disappointment as he took the cookie and ate it. After that, Jose went into his buggy.

-I'll be looking for flowers around here, so stop by and say hi if you see me.

-We do. — Ren replied.

-Oh, and I guess just gathering flowers would be kind of boring, huh? Since you humans enjoy playing so much, I'll come up with some fun games for you.

-We'll like to play with you sometime. — Ren said,

-Ah, I also remembered something humans like to say to each other.

-And what is it? — The black-haired thief asked.

-Good job!

Jose left the entrance, went into the depths of Mementos, leaving the thieves perplexed.

"What the hell was that just now…?" Ren asked himself. "Still, he's not human, that's for sure. He looks like a puppet…"

-Who in the hell was that? — Ryuji asked.

-If he's studying humans, does that mean he isn't one? — Ann asked. — I mean, he just seemed like some nice kid.

-Well, he didn't feel like a Shadow. — Morgana said.

-He's not a Shadow, neither a human. Some traces of him make him look like he's a puppet or sort of. Haven't you noticed it? — Ren asked.

-True. I wouldn't say he's dangerous… at least, for now… — Morgana said.

-As I said before, better have him as our ally than our enemy. — Ren said with a serious tone.

-Anyways, if we see any of those flowers he wants, I guess we can grab 'em for him. — Ryuji said as he went towards the exit with the others.

-Wait! I totally forgot!

Ren turned at Jose who came back carrying a shining thing.

-There's something I've been meaning to give to all of you.

-All of us? Do you mean you want to give us something? — Ren asked surprised.

"What could he want to give to all of us?" Ren thought as Jose showed the shining object.

-Yeah. The thing is… I picked up something strange while I was exploring earlier. Here it is.

-Huh? What the heck is that? — Ryuji asked.

-A… star? — Ren asked, truly confused. — Wait, it's glowing!

-Yeah, it's a star, at least that's what they look like, so that's what I call them. — Jose replied.

-Um, so, what about it did you want to show us? — Ann asked gently.

-Humans make wishes on stars, right? That's so interesting. Stars grant wishes. So this star here is going to grant your wishes.

-What!? — The thieves exclaimed.

-Our wishes!? — Morgana asked.

-…Oh, it would be nice to think that. — Jose said.

-"Nice to think that"… Seriously… — Morgana said.

-I think this is very kind of you. — Ren said with a gentle smile.

-I'll give this to you. — Jose extended his hand and Ren received the shining star. He noticed the star glows in intense blue light. — It's so sparkly and beautiful, you want it too, don't you? It's a "sign of our friendship." I know what that is.

-Yes, I do want the star. — Ren said, putting the star in his pocket. — I promise I'll take care of it.

Jose nodded and jumped back into his buggy.

-Off I go now. Good job!

Ren chuckled seeing the kid went back into the depths of Mementos.

"He's not from the Velvet Room. Who is he?" Ren thought as he took the star to examine.

-Welp, there he goes. — Ryuji said.

-Yeah…

-You're okay?

-I'm okay. I am just thinking about something… — Ren replied. — So he gave us this star. Should we make a wish?

-I highly doubt something like that would actually happen, even in Mementos… Well, I guess you can at least try making a wish. — Morgana replied.

-If that's the case… Okay, I wish for all-can-you-eat parfaits! With zero calories! — Ann wished.

-And I wish an extra-large beef bowl! With pork soup on the side! — Ryuji wished.

"Those wishes… kinda sucks…" Ren thought in disappointment, sighing heavily, and looked at the star.

-I don't know what to wish for… — Ren admitted. — Maybe some sushi, perhaps?

Then nothing happened. The thieves waited for a second, but nothing came.

-…Nothing's happened. — Morgana said disappointed.

-Was Skull's wish too petty? — Ann asked, visibly disappointed.

-You're the one to talk! — Ryuji retorted, kicking the air in frustration.

-Hm. I guess things don't just happen that easily. — Morgana said, visibly disappointed as well.

-Well, at least we have a beautiful souvenir. — Ren said, trying to cheer them up. — Since it was a present, I'll keep it. I like it to be honest.

-Really? Well… Let's keep onto it for now. — Morgana said. — Well, that was a little unexpected… Let's head back now.

-Let's.

They went back to the real world and no one noticed their sudden reappearance. Ren looked around and saw no one looking at them. Back to the entrance, they simply sat on the entrance side.

-Mementos, huh? I still don't really get that place. — Ryuji confessed, visibly confused. — Oh and what was that wall we saw at the end?

-I'm not entirely sure, but that wall must've been there for a reason. — Morgana replied.

-I have a theory, but that's not important for now. Let's just say I don't have enough information. — Ren said. — Morgana said that place is affected by how much the general public believes in us if Mementos is the public's Palace.

-Exactly. You're quickly catching on to things Ren.

-I try. — Ren said with some embarrassment.

-Why do you know so much about it, Morgana? — Ann asked.

Morgana bowed his head, dejected.

-My memories are a little foggy in that regard… — Morgana admitted. — However, I need to know what lies in the depths of Mementos, no matter what.

-In the depths of Mementos… — Ren said.

-No matter what? — Ann asked confused.

-Mementos is not only just everyone's Palace, it's the source of all Palaces. It used to be that Palaces like Kamoshida's with one ruler simply didn't exist. So if we can do something about the greatest cause of distortions, I'm certain my appearance will…

-You wanted someone to save you too… — Ann said, sympathizing with the supernatural cat.

-I-I just needed pawns.

-I see… So that's why you came pokin' your nose around with us. — Ryuji said.

-So you need to reach the depths of Mementos… You have my help, Morgana. — Ren said determinedly. — Besides, I'd have a hunch about that as well.

-…I'll help you. I hope you can regain what you've lost. — Ann said determined as well.

-I'll… be relying on you guys. — Morgana said, almost on the verge of crying.

-By the way Morgana… Are you a boy? Or you might be a girl?

-Perhaps he's a car… — Ren teased, caressing Morgana.

-That is a possibility!

-I wish I could deny it, but… I just can't be sure… — Ryuji said with an edge of confusion.

-Why not!? — Morgana exclaimed.

-Hey I was just teasing. — Ren said, trying to make Morgana chill. The supernatural cat just sighed, expelling the air heavily through his mouth

-…In any case, of course, I'm a male! I mean, I…

-Mona…? — Ren called worriedly.

-What is it? — Ann asked.

-No… It's nothing. We're done talking about that!

"We hit a sensitive topic. Better change the topic."

-So, we now can perform minor changes in mementos…

-Correct. If we come any across eye-catching leads, it may be worth dealing with them for a bit of combat practice.

-There weren't any other outstanding ones though… — Ann said with disappointment.

-I bet we'll get tons of 'em if we can change someone famous and make the Phantom Thieves well-known. The big fish are our main targets after all. — Ryuji said excitedly.

-But before that, we need to get prepared for our exams. We need to exercise our brains as well. — Ren said.

-True. — Morgana said.

Ryuji bowed disappointed.

-I gotta study…

Ren laughed and tried to comfort Ryuji as Ann scolded the blonde punk. However, at a certain distance, a young person was observing them, totally unaware of his presence. Standing in the middle of the crowd, he was watching them, observing their conversation before they went back home.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Attic.

Evening.

—

Man, that Nakanohara guy was a piece of cake! If we can take down some kind of big target next, we're totally gonna get famous. — Ryuji texted excitedly.

Hey! We're trying to help people, not get famous. — Ann scolded.

But if people don't know who we are, how're we gonna give them any courage?

Are you entirely sure about that, Ryuji? — Ren asked.

Am I wrong? — Ryuji asked confused.

Not entirely. — Ren replied.

Yeah. I don't think you're necessarily wrong either… But should we really be doing this if we don't have a reason like Kamoshida? — Ann asked.

You mean we shouldn't be sticking our noses into other people's business? — Ryuji asked.

Yeah…

I dunno, man. If someone's in trouble, it's only natural to help to wanna help 'em out!

Still, we need to be careful… — Ren texted. "Or you'll end up like me." He thought as he saw the messages coming.

I mean, I agree with that. But as Ren said, we need to be careful. Still I guess I was glad we were able to solve the stalker case. — Ann said.

Plus, what good are our Personas if we don't use 'em for good? Don't you agree, Ren? — Ryuji asked.

I want to help people. I want to use my Personas for that purpose. — Ren replied.

The same goes to me. — Ann said.

We don't got much time to be arguing over that either. That Madarame(?) guy bothers me. —Ryuji admitted.

True, but that's not important now. — Ren said.

Yeah. But no getting carried away, you understand? — Ann said. — And don't do anything to stand out like failing all your exams.

Oh, crap! Speaking of that, I haven't studied at all! — Ryuji exclaimed.

Ren chuckled as we read that message. He looked at Morgana and showed the message.

-Fufu. He's not that good at academics, is he?

Ren shook his head in negative as he saw the new message Ryuji sent to him.

What about the star? That one Jose gave it. Wonder if that could help us ace the exams.

Yeah, somehow I doubt that. — Ann texted.

Hell, I'd settle for just not failing.

Bargaining isn't gonna help you here. We shouldn't use it for that in the first place. Maybe you should just, I dunno, put some actual effort in? You've still got time. — Ann texted.

I'd agree with Ann. It's not like a limb will fall off if you study Ryuji. — Ren texted. — We can't simply slack off in our studies.

Fiiine… — Ryuji replied.

-Is it Ryuji? Did he mention anything about Mementos?

-Not much, just excited to catching a big target. I'll go study downstairs; I need to get ready for the exams. — Ren said, going downstairs with his school book in hands.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Attic.

Daytime.

—

Hey, I saw on the forum! Nice job sticking it on the stalker!

Ren read the message and showed it to Morgana.

-What's he up to…? — Ren asked himself as he saw another message coming.

My Phantom Aficionado Website came in handy, didn't he?

What are you talking about? — Ren texted.

It's OK. You don't have to say it. I know deep down in my heart that it was useful. Anyway, I'm in Shibuya right now. I'd love it if you could come hear me out about your future actions! — Mishima texted.

Hey, wait…

I'll be waiting at the diner in Shibuya. You gotta swing by!

-What is he up to…? — Morgana asked.

-I guess he wants to talk, but as much as we don't need to see him as a threat, we need to be careful.

-I'd agree. So are you going there?

-Why not? Let's see what he wants from us.

—

Shibuya District. Shibuya Diner.

Daytime.

—

-I'm glad you came. How have things been? You know, with that *yawn* …special activities? — Mishima asked, yawning again.

-Are you alright? — Ren asked.

-Oops! Hah, sorry about that. I, uh, haven't been getting a lot of sleep lately. I've been staying up managing the Phan-site all night, every night. I think it's called… PR?

-You should get some sleep and… Wait, Phan-site?

-The Phantom Aficionado Website! Phan-site for short. You need a catchy name if you want people to notice you. This is all a bit of P-Thieves propaganda!

"Please don't give short names…" Ren begged internally.

-Basically, there's no point in taking down bad guys if nobody's gonna know about it. That's why I started a blog for posts of the people you guys saved while filtering out our haters. We need the Phantom Thieves to be seen in the proper light if we want to make the name popular, right?

-I see… "In our case, I don't doubt all this propaganda in favor of us will be useful for us. My doubt is what Mishima is planning…" — Ren thought and spoke: — Great job. You've done good, kid.

-Really!? Just hearing you say that makes my all-nighters worth it!

-But don't forget to sleep well. We don't wanna see you get sick.

-OK. Though actually, I really wanna know how you punish people… — Mishima commented with curiosity. — Don't worry, I'm not gonna ask. It wouldn't be any fun if you just up and told me. After all, the Phantom Thieves have a reputation for being secretive!

"He's not too pushy. He's not a problem, at least for now… Although he's too excited…" Ren thought with an edge of nervously.

-I… I wish I could be more like you guys somehow. — Mishima said in a sad tone.

"You don't want to. Trust me." Ren thought in a rigid and firm tone but kept that thought to himself.

-But I'll still be here to draw attention to the stuff you do! You can leave that part to me. I'm gonna use my Phan-site to promote the Phantom Thieves and weed out any negative comments. Your popularity is gonna be at my mercy… or, uh, my fingertips. It's like, I'll be your strategic image management representative, so to speak.

-In short, my agent. That sounds cool. "Better going along and not taking him down."

-I knew you'd understand. Anyway, I'm gonna do everything I can to make sure that the title's more than just for show.

-I'm counting on you. "I don't want to ruin his fun. And it's better to keep an eye on him like this for now…"

Ren was snapped out of his thoughts with Mishima yawning again.

-I've gotta say though, managing the Phantom Thieves' reputation is tiring work… The forum gets all sorts of weird posts, including tons of things unrelated to reforming society… It'd defeat the purpose of the site if the truth of the Phantom Thieves was buried among all that garbage.

-I see… You don't need to do that if you want, you know…

-Oh, but you don't need to worry. I'll sort through all the trash. Speaking of which, I've actually already found some worthwhile info about our very own school. Our quest to boost your popularity can start close to home! I'll give it my all.

-Oookay…? — Ren said baffled.

"Info… It's all we need now. And with that, we can get new targets, even if they're small. But even a small spark can start the biggest of the fires. I better accept these requests he'll send to us for now."

Ren felt his power grow as his bond with Mishima became deeper. After that Ren saw Mishima yawning again.

-I might be overworking myself, though… *yawn*

-You should get some rest.

-You're right… Man, I'm exhausted… I think I'd fall asleep on the spot if I weren't talking to you. I should head home… See you later…

-See you later…

Ren saw Mishima going to his home and he saw a message from Phoenix.

Ren, meet me at this address. That's the house I've rented to live in for some period.

-Morgana?

The supernatural cat came at him and Ren put him inside his bag.

-So, where are we going? — He asked.

-Chief Nick's new house. He finally rented a place to live.

-Really!? So, what are you waiting for? Let's go!

—

Shibuya District. Phoenix Wright's house.

Daytime.

—

After several minutes of walking, Ren arrived at the address his mentor gave to him. He saw a huge house in the middle of the giant building of the place. Ren just whistled, truly impressed to see how his mentor had rented such a big house. After pressing the doorbell, he waited for anyone to answer him.

-I still can't believe he rented such a big house… — Morgana commented.

-Me neither. I mean, it's huge. I bet the rent of this is high enough to make someone's jaw drop open.

-Hello! Oh, Ren! Fancy meeting you here. — Trucy said with a smile. — Please come in. Daddy's in his office.

-He has an office here!? — Ren and Morgana exclaimed. Ren whistled in astoundment. — Your father knows sometimes how to surprise anyone.

-Well, renting a big house was HIS idea, after all, is as Daddy says: Why do something petty if you can do something big?

-I strongly believe he never said that. — Ren said as he sat on the sofa. — I'll wait here.

-Okay. I'll call Daddy. By the way, great job dealing with Kamoshida!

-Thanks! Did you see the video of the trial?

-Of course, I did. And there was the news everywhere. It was easy to know about it.

Trucy went upstairs and Ren waited for her to come back.

-She seems like a nice girl. — Morgana commented.

-Yeah, she's 18 by the way. A young adult now. — Ren gently corrected.

-Right… So, how did you meet her? — Morgana asked.

-She came along during a certain moment of my training. She's Chief Nick's daughter.

-That's what I know, but I want to know how she came along with you guys.

-It was because Chief Nick needed to bring her along. She simply couldn't stay alone with Athena for months, so he bought a ticket for her to come along. Because of that, she decided to perform during her stay in Japan, so I was "requested" as her assistant. Needless to say, we rocked together and I became her favorite assistant. You could say it was my first part-time job in my probation.

-So, you worked with her? Did you earn anything?

-Experience. I know how to perform several complicated magic tricks.

-…

-…

-…That's all? — Morgana asked perplexed, and Ren laughed.

-Of course not. I was paid, of course. Chief Nick paid me for all the trouble his daughter made me pass. Nothing too dangerous, I can assure you.

-Liar!

Ren laughed and caressed Morgana's head.

-Still, she's a great girl. She's strong too, both emotionally and mentally. She's also a great magician. I should bring you to one of our shows.

-Bring who? — Trucy asked, coming downstairs.

-Morgana. I'm talking to him I should bring him to watch the show.

Trucy raised one of her eyebrows, and Ren just shrugged.

-Can't I be weird sometimes? I just like to talk with him.

-Hm. I see… — She said with suspicion. — So…

-Truce. Leave Ren alone, please. — Phoenix said coming downstairs and Trucy hugged him.

-Daddy! How was your day?

-Tiring. My clients here in Japan are quite demanding of me, but it went as expected.

-The Kirijo Group don't give you a single moment to rest, don't they? — Trucy asked doubtfully.

-No, but seeing the moment we're in, we need to rush our investigation as much as we can. — Phoenix replied. — By the way, Ren, did you like the house I rented?

-I like it. I have one doubt though, how you managed to rent a house so big such as that? I bet the rent is far from cheap.

-Well, you should know, since I work for the Kirijo Group, my finances have become more stable than when I was a mere defense attorney. I need to thank them that my annual profit surpasses seven digits.

Ren almost choked with the air in surprise.

-Seven… Digits!? — Ren exclaimed purely perplexed.

-Actually, sometimes it went to eight digits. What? — Trucy asked, seeing Ren's reaction and Phoenix's serious face.

-Truce…

-It's okay, Chief Nick… I was just surprised, that's all… By the way, why you called me?

-Well, I called you to discuss a few things about your other job.

Ren's expression changed, becoming darker and more serious.

-I see… Trucy, we can talk later?

-Of course, actually, I need to train my magic tricks. — Trucy explained going upstairs. — Can I…

-No. I think I'll keep Morgana with me for now. — Ren replied, putting Morgana on his legs.

-You meanie. Just kidding. — Trucy said, sticking her tongue with an embarrassed smile. — I'm upstairs. Call me when you are done.

The doorbell rang.

-One moment please. — Phoenix said as he walked to the door to attend to the person on the outside. Then he saw Miles waiting for him with his arms crossed.

-Wright. — Miles said, quite annoyed.

-Edgeworth. — Phoenix replied. — You sound annoyed. Did something happen?

Miles sighed in frustration and gritted his teeth.

-The transit was a nightmare! A nightmare I say. I never saw something so horrible in my entire life, and I faced the intense traffic of Los Angeles for the most part of my life.

Phoenix shook his head in disappointment.

-I told you, didn't I. You should've taken the subway. Come in, and take your shoes when you enter.

Miles did as Phoenix ordered and then he saw Ren sitting on the sofa caressing Morgana.

-Hello Ren.

-Hello Chief Miles. I heard you complaining about the traffic. Are you alright?

-I'll be after a cup of tea. Earl Gray.

-I'll make it. — Phoenix said, going to the kitchen.

-I still can't believe you decided to rent such a house. — Miles commented. — Regardless, how are you, Ren? — The chief prosecutor asked.

-I'm fine, as usual. So why did you two call me? It's not to discuss our current situation, because even I know we need some evidence for now, and fast.

-No. Actually, we're here to check your progress. We doubt the Palaces surged out of the blue.

-So you two know about Mementos.

-Mementos…? — Miles asked.

-So you two don't know about the Mementos? — Ren asked.

-You mean your manifestation is called Mementos? — Phoenix asked from the kitchen as he prepared Miles's tea.

-No. Mementos is the public's Palace, like…

-A hive. A place when the collective unconscious is connected somehow. — Miles said.

-The source of all the Palaces. Great job Ren, you have found the main objective. — Phoenix said proudly.

-Actually, it was Morgana who found it. Somehow he knew about the Mementos in the first place.

-So, it was Morgana… That's interesting. The question is how he knows so much about it?

-Honestly, I don't know. My memories about my past are all too foggy… — Morgana said with sorrow. — But I know one thing. We need to go to the depths of Mementos, no matter what.

-So, the Mementos' core is your objective… Sounds like Arisato, huh.

-Arisato…? — Ren asked confused.

-To make a long story short, the group of Persona-users before you guys had to reach the top of Tartarus. Needless to say, they were successful in their task.

-Oh, I see… So, you guys called me to know more about our progress? We could do that by the message you know?

-Let's just say we don't trust technology too much to send confidential messages through smartphones. Besides, we should keep our conversations private for our sake. — Phoenix replied, giving Miles his tea.

-Better safe than sorry, right? — Ren asked.

-Exactly. And… You know the other reason. — Miles said.

They stood quiet for a moment. Ren just nodded his head and consented.

-Well, it seems our situation hasn't changed at all, right?

-Right. Our investigations struck at some point, and that's the point you came in.

-You two want to explore the Mementos, right?

Both Phoenix and Miles nodded in agreement.

-Perhaps he could go there now. I bet we might find something useful there. Actually, there's something I want to show you two. Is that fine for you?

-It's okay with us, that is if Morgana agrees with that? — Miles said.

Morgana laughed.

-Fufu, why not? Besides, I kinda want to see your Personas as well.

-Sorry, if it is your plan to put us in battle you are sorely mistaken. We're just going to explore, got it. Let's avoid the battle at all costs.

-Fiiine… — Morgana said, annoyed. — Well, let's go.

-Let me warn Trucy first. She'll get worried if I don't warn her. And Miles don't tease me. I know what you're thinking! — Phoenix said annoyed.

Miles only chuckled as Phoenix went upstairs to talk to Trucy.

-Everything's alright, Chief Miles? — Ren asked.

-Yes, it is. It's just that I feel kind of dislocated here in Tokyo…

-Why?

-Let's Just say of all the places I've worked with; Japan is one of the most difficult I had to deal with.

-Why?

-The law here is more rigid than in the United States, and here the system is harsher than in America. Now we're an example of criminality and corruption though, but at least people weren't so cruel with the others. You could say in America things weren't so hard for innocent people.

-Still, the fact is hard for them, no matter what place in the globe it is. — Ren said with disappointment.

-True.

Phoenix went downstairs and looked at both Ren and Miles with a smile.

-Well, I already told Trucy. So, where do we go?

-To Shibuya Station. Our target is there.

—

Metaverse. Mementos.

Entrance.

Daytime.

—

-So we are in Mementos. — Ren said, showing them the entrance.

-Wow! Your clothes… — Phoenix said surprised.

-They changed. — Miles said surprised as well.

-That is the representation of his will of rebellion. It's easy to understand.

-I see… Nhoooogggghhhh!? What in the hell are you!? — Miles exclaimed as he saw Morgana's normal form.

-That's Mona. That's his form here in the Metaverse.

-Oh… I understand. *ahem* My deepest apologies for my behavior just now. I was surprised by your… appearance. — Miles said disconcerted.

-Me too. I didn't know that's your real form.

-I am NOT a cat! And that's not my real form! — Morgana yelled.

-Hey you shouldn't yell like that, or do you want the Shadows coming at us? — Miles scolded.

-Don't worry, that is a safe place, they simply don't come here. — The supernatural cat replied calmly.

-So, this is a safe place. That explains why we don't see Shadows here. They are deeper underground, right? — Phoenix asked.

-Yes, although we didn't come here to face the Shadows here. We came here to see something, — Morgana said.

-You are absolutely right Morgana, or I should say, Mona. — Miles corrected himself. — Besides we don't have our weapons to go into the battle.

-Don't worry, we are going to avoid the Shadows on our way to our destination. — Ren said. — Morgana, transform.

-All right, Joker! — Morgana said before he turns into his car form. The duo of lawyers was shocked to see Morgana in that form.

-He became a car!? — They exclaimed. Ren laughed.

-Well, get in. We don't have time to lose. — Morgana said happily. — Joker, if you could do the honors.

-I'll drive. — Miles said. — It couldn't be that hard to avoid the Shadows, right?

-If you say so, be my guest. — Ren said, getting onto the bus.

-Miles, please, don't drive like crazy. Last time I puked all my lunch because of you. — Phoenix complained, feeling blue.

-Wright, it was only that day, and if I recall correctly, you went into a ridiculous competition with Ms. Fey of who eats more burgers in thirty minutes.

-At least I won.

-Am I dealing with two kids here? — Ren provoked as Miles assumed the driver position.

-How'd I start the engine? — Miles asked.

-There's a switch under the steering wheel. — Morgana said and Miles flipped the switch. The engine started and Miles laughed.

-What's so funny? — Morgana asked.

-Purring, really? — The Chief Prosecutor asked.

-Don't underestimate my meowtary engine. Is top-notch.

Ren laughed.

-Déjà vu. — He explained. — Skull and Mona had a fight about that.

-Oh…

-Well then, let's go.

Miles wandered into the depths of Mementos, avoiding the Shadows. During their ride, Miles noticed a few things and some trains riding on the other side of the floor, running all their way through the depths of Mementos.

-Those trains… They run on other tracks. — He noted.

-Quite obvious Miles. — Phoenix mocked. — Tell something we don't know.

-Hm… That sounds like Bahamut, the Midnight Channel, and the Tartarus itself. If that's the case, where's him…? — Miles asked to himself.

-Who? — Ren asked.

-Nothing. It was nothing.

-Okay… — Ren said with suspicion.

-What're we looking for? — Phoenix asked.

-A platform. There are escalators down the path. — Ren explained.

-Okay. Wait, I think I saw it on the platform. — Miles said, turning to the left.

When they reached the platform, they went downstairs and reached the end of the path of that area.

-Here, that's what I want to show you.

-A corridor…? — Miles asked.

-Escalators are going even deep down. — Phoenix noted.

-Exactly. That path once was blocked. Mona tried to access it before, but…

-No matter how much I tried, the path wouldn't budge. — Phoenix said.

-Then, you went to Kamoshida's Palace, right? To seek answers. — Miles asked.

-Correct. Palaces with only one owner aren't supposed to exist. Only Mementos are supposed to exist, and not like that at least, capable of generating individual Palaces.

-So, you are trying to go to the depths of Mementos to seek why that Palaces are appearing out of the blue.

-Probably. — Morgana replied.

-Probably…?

-I don't remember anything from my past, but I know I need to reach the depths of Mementos no matter what…

-Hm… So, you need to reach the depths of Mementos, no matter what… Hmmm…

-That's why we need your help. I not only want to punish them in the Metaverse but in court as well. — Ren said.

-So, that's your plan… You know you can't punish all of them in court, right? — Phoenix asked.

-Right… I know that… That's why I need info.

-Info, of your next targets? — Phoenix asked, visibly surprised.

-Exactly. In the Kamoshida case, I was lucky to find an ex-teammate to aid me in the case of giving me the medal, although I had the DNA test to link him as well. But if I haven't? I can't simply rely on luck and bluffs to win a case, especially against Prosecutor Niijima. That's why I need your help, in court and giving me info about them. — Ren replied.

Phoenix and Miles stood quiet for a moment, thinking about Ren's proposal.

-So, are you asking our help with that…?

-Exactly. I want to know more about the connection between the Metaverse and the real world. I do believe all of that is connected somehow, and is related to our case.

-Wait, your case? — Morgana asked.

-Long story, Mona. Long story. — Ren replied coolly.

-Well, since you believe that, it is only fair for you to ask for our help since you're helping us with that case.

-I see. Thank you.

-However, you have to lead the cases on your own. You can ask us to be your assistance in court… — Miles said.

-You meant only me since you're a prosecutor. — Phoenix corrected.

-True. You may call our assistance, but you have to lead the cases on your own. — Phoenix said.

Ren smiled.

-That's fair enough, and I couldn't ask more. — The thief-attorney answered.

-That's our apprentice. So, you wanted to show us this? — Miles asked.

-Yeah. And ask for your help of course.

-You know you could only ask, right?

-True, but I thought you guys might know how our progress is.

-You're right. — Phoenix said.

-And besides, this is some vital information to our case.

-Yeah, but without finding… — Phoenix said, being interrupted by a furious cat.

-Hey, what does all that mean!? — Morgana yelled furiously.

-Mona!

Morgana stopped at the firm and severe tone of Ren. The thief just sighed and looked at his mentor.

-It's a long story, which we don't have time to tell anyone. Well, let's go back, Trucy may be worried about us.

-Let's.

—

Real World. Shibuya District.

Phoenix Wright's house.

Daytime.

—

-Phew, that was quite a ride. — Phoenix commented while sitting on the sofa.

-Don't mention it. I never felt so tired of driving. — Miles said cracking his fingers. — Why does all the manifestation have to drain our energy so quickly…?

-I don't know.

-All of them…? — Wait a minute, did you guys say that happens all the time?! — Ren exclaimed.

-Not every single time, but it happens. Why?

-That explains why we're so tired to just visit there. — Ren said dejectedly. — So, where's Trucy?

-I'm right here.

Trucy went downstairs and hugged Phoenix.

-Daddy! Are you alright? You look tired. All of you actually. — Trucy said worriedly.

-We had an issue on the streets. Don't worry it was nothing.

-If you say so. Well, Ren, I'm thinking of making a show here in Tokyo. Whaddya think?

-It's a great idea Trucy. Do you want me to be your assistant?

-Yeah. You and your cat, Morgana. She might be a cute assistant on the stage.

-I am not a cat. And I'm a boy! — Morgana yelled.

-We'll like too. Also, he's male. — Ren gently corrected Trucy.

-Oh, I see… Well, I'd like him to participate. He's so cute.

-C-Cute!? — Morgana yelped. Ren chuckled.

-We'll love it too.

-Way! I'll plan our magic tricks. It'll be awesome!

-But before that little lady, you have to study. — Phoenix said. — We'll go upstairs to discuss a few things. Please, behave yourselves. I don't want the house being destroyed.

-We will.

Phoenix and Miles went upstairs and Trucy looked at Ren, slightly bouncing on her feet, with a smile on her face.

-Speaking of which, where is the school you're going to attend Trucy? — Ren asked curiously.

-Kosei High. I heard from Daddy is a school that encourages the students to archive their dreams as artists. I do hope that also includes magicians.

-I'm sure you'll make a great show there. After all, I'm the assistant of one of the best magicians in the U.S and probably one of the best in the world.

Trucy giggle.

-Modest, you aren't Ren.

-But it's the truth.

-Well, let's see if you are still as sharp as ever. Let's see… What about… This!

Trucy showed her Magic Panties and Morgana stared at them perplexed.

-Do you really want me to perform the Magic Panties Trick? — Ren asked with a sly grin. — Okay.

-Ren, do you really!? — Morgana argued, perplexed.

Ren took the Magic Panties and put his attorney badge inside. He counted to three and threw the panties into the air, making them disappear.

-Now, please Ms. Wright, can you show me your hat? — Ren asked

-Yes, Mr. Amamiya.

Trucy took off her hat and showed it to Ren. He simply took Morgana and put him inside.

-Hey! What are you—

-1,2,3. Abracadabra! There. I've switched Morgana with my attorney badge.

-I doubt you… What!? You did it! Here, you can have it. — Trucy said, giving the attorney back to Ren.

-Thank you. Now about my fateful assistant… Please check your panties.

Trucy did as Ren ordered and Morgana poked out his head from the magic prop.

-Hey! What's the big idea!? And why am I inside these panties!?

Ren chuckled and took Morgana.

-Thank you. You have been a big help right now.

-I demand a good amount of curry after that! — Morgana demanded.

-Okay… I'll give you a good amount of curry when we reach home. — Ren said laughing.

-Ren, that was great! Your skills have improved!

-That was nothing.

-No serious, Ren. You've improved a lot. You've become a great magician. I've no more to teach you.

-Thank you… — Ren said embarrassed, toying with his lock of hair. He noticed Morgana was staring at the Magic Panties. — That's a magic prop, Mona.

-Yeah, that's one of my classic tricks, and I've taught Ren all I know. Not that you're going to understand.

-He's smart Trucy. Don't underestimate Morgana, okay?

-If you say so. Still, this now sounds like child's play for you. I want to practice and perform complex tricks with you more.

-Are you serious? You really want me to perform more complex tricks with you?

-Of course. Besides, I really like you as my apprentice. You learn fast and we don't need many rehearsals to practice. Someone with your talent as yours is quite a rare Ren.

-I'm glad to hear that, but it's nothing as I said before.

-Such modesty. You're usually such a show-off, you know that?

Ren chuckled.

-Yes I know.

-So… How're things in your school?

-Bad. Trust me, you won't like to hear about it.

Trucy tapped her chin with her index finger, in confusion.

-It can't be that bad. I mean, I was arrested before and judged… And Daddy was too.

-At least you've been found innocent. In my case, on the other hand… I don't want to talk about that.

-Come on, Ren. I'm your friend, you can tell me anything to me.

Ren sighed.

-Fine, I'll tell you.

Ren explained his situation to Trucy, telling her since his admission to the Shujin Academy, and what Kamoshida did to him and his friends. After explaining everything, she touched her brooch and stared at the floor, visibly sad.

-I'm so sad for you… That's totally unfair! — She said, puffing her cheeks pouting, with both hands on her hips.

-I know, but I've to deal with that.

-Wait, did Daddy know that? — She asked.

-Unfortunately yes. I didn't want to involve both him and Chief Miles, but I kind of don't have a choice. I told them about my situation to get the best approach against Kamoshida.

-So, why…

-They simply can't erase this incident right away. It's not that simple Trucy.

-Still, that's unfair!

-Life is unfair. The best thing we can do is fight against the injustices of the world to prevail. Okay, enough of the moody chat. So, excited to start school?

-Absolutely. I wonder how they're going to react to me since I'm a foreigner.

-I'm sure they'll love you. You're a real charmer, you know that?

-Awww Ren. You'll make me blush saying things like that.

-But it's true. So, do you know if Apollo is coming to Japan? — Ren asked.

-I don't. Sorry Ren, but your meeting with him will take a bit more time to happen.

-I see… Well then maybe it's time for me to go. I can't let my guardian wait for me.

-You're going already? — Phoenix said coming from upstairs.

-Yes. Sojiro hates when I stay out so late.

-Do you want a lift? — Miles asked.

-I accept. It's better than taking the subway these days.

-Okay then. Let's go.

-Bye Ren. I'll come to visit you sometime.

-Okay. I'll be waiting. Bye Trucy, Chief Nick.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.

Evening.

—

-Thank you, Chief Miles.

-It was nothing. I'll search for information for you on new possible targets.

-I've got a name in mind. Madarame.

Miles frowned.

-Are you sure of that?

-We heard a name in Mementos from a target. It was obvious he's involved in some big scandal.

-And…?

-I have a feeling he's related to our case, at least indirectly. I've a feeling the Palaces acted as a seal to the depths of Mementos. It's just a theory, but seeing the facts…

-You are almost certain… I see… Well, I'll give a look over him.

-Thank you. Bye Chief Miles, I see you later.

-See you later, Ren.

Ren exited the car and walked towards the Leblanc. Before he entered the establishment, he heard his phone ring. He promptly answered the call, hearing the voice of Mishima on the other side of the call.

-Mishima?

-Hey, Amamiya? Listen to this. I was checking the Phan-Site earlier, and I found a bunch of hater comments about the Phantom Thieves! It got me so mad, I'm not even sleepy anymore. At this point, I might pull an all-nighter fighting back!

"Please… Don't do that for your sake… We can endure a few hate comments…" Ren thought in despair as he heard Mishima complaining about it.

-Please don't. These all-nighters might be bad for you.

-Huh? What, you're worried about my health? Aw, thanks! Now I'm even more motivated.

"Wow. That backfired so quickly I don't know what to say…" Ren thought astounded.

-Anyway, I'm gonna work my butt off! Just watch me!

-Okay… But please don't spend all the night in front of the computer. That's not healthy for you.

-Okay. Well, duty calls. I better set out for the Battle of the Phan-Site. Time for a wild night of modding and banning!

"*sigh* In the end I couldn't say if we got a goldmine or a big trouble on our side…" Ren thought of going inside to Leblanc and promptly going upstairs and taking his school books.

-I'm gonna study now.

-Okay, I'll lock the store now. Don't stay here too late.

Sojiro left the store and Ren spent part of the night studying for the midterm exams. After studying, he went to his bed and fell asleep.

—

May, 9. Monday

Shibuya District. Shibuya Station.

Early Morning.

—

-Morning…

-Good Morning, Ann.

Ren saw Ann grunting annoyed, as she was struggling with something.

-Are you alright?

-Huh?

-Are you alright? Ann, do you have an allergy to pollen? — Ren asked, purely concerned about her.

-…Allergies? Oh, uh… Maybe! I do feel kind of dazed, and everything feels weird!

-I see. Maybe it's the pollen affecting you.

-I see. But… um… actually… I've been having this feeling that someone's watching me…

-Someone's… watching you…? — Ren asked with a serious frown.

-I hope not… Oh, maybe I just can't shake off the feeling of infiltrating a Palace! At the Palace, we're always careful not to be noticed, you know!

-I see… Well, it can probably be that… It might be your imagination.

-You're right… it might be my imagination… Yeah…

-Anyway, if you're sure, you can call us anytime. Ryuji and I will do something about it.

-Okay…

—

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

After School.

—

Ren was re-reading the messages he received from his friends as he went towards the library.

Hey, don't you think the atmosphere at school is kinda different now? — Ryuji texted.

What do you mean? — Ren asked.

You mean with there being no Kamoshida? — Ann asked.

Yeah, nobody ever talked about him out in the open like this. — Ryuji said.

That's true. — Ren noted.

I wish someone just thanks us for it or something… — Ryuji texted.

Either way, everything has worked out for the best. After all, Kamoshida's actually been punished for his crimes. That's victory enough for me.

I couldn't agree more with you Ann. — Ren replied.

I wonder what's gonna happen to him now. I mean, he's a famous criminal at this point, right? — Ryuji asked.

He's behind the bars now, or did you forget? — Ren said. — A suitable punishment for someone like him.

Yeah, I know that. He's gonna have to deal with people hating him forever… — Ryuji said.

This might be true, but I don't have any sympathy for him. He got what he deserved. — Ann said.

For sure.

Finishing to read the first message, he started to read the message Mishima sent to him.

Hey, I have some new info for you.

What is it? — Ren asked.

I saw it on the Phan-Site, but I've heard about it at school too. Anyway, there's a guy at school who's bullying has gone way too far. I want to help the victim, but that's impossible for me, but I bet the Phantom Thieves could do something about it. I mean you already changed the heart of that stalker, so this should be a breeze, right?

It's a piece of cake. — Ren replied.

You're amazing! The bully is a brown-haired person frequently seen standing out front of the school entrance.

What's his name? — Ren asked.

And from what I can tell, his name is Daisuke Takanashi.

-Oh, you got some info on a new target!

-I know he's a small target, but we have a name, and a target is a target. But only after the exams. For now, Ryuji, Ann, and I need to study.

-You're right. You should put your responsibilities first place. Still, let's go to the hideout to inform them about it.

—

Shujin Academy. Rooftop

After School.

—

-If we're all here… you wanna go to Mementos, right? — Ryuji said excitedly.

-What are you talking about? Don't we need to study for exams? — Ann asked confused.

-Eh, don't worry 'bout that stuff. Let's ignore those details and just go chargin' in head-first.

-Ryuji… — Ren said in disappointment.

-That's easy for you to say… but we don't even have a target.

-That's actually not a problem anymore. Some intel has come in from Mishima.

-He's been very useful to find our info. — Ren said with a smile. — Although he's too excited sometimes.

-You really do anything to avoid studying, huh…? — Ann said, annoyed and disappointed.

-But we are only going after him after the exams. We come here to remind you guys to study for the exams.

-Got it… *sigh* what a bummer… — Ryuji said, disappointed as he exited the rooftop. Ren went towards the library and spent the rest of the day studying.

—

May, 10. Tuesday.

Shibuya District. Shibuya Station.

Early Morning.

—

Nothing new? — Ren texted Miles as he was waiting for his train.

-It looks like you're attending school seriously.

Ren turned to the voice direction, and he saw Makoto coming at him.

-Miss Niijima. It's a surprise to see you here.

-Same. You seem to be pretty close with Takamaki-San if you both come to the school together. And you just transferred here though… I guess you two really click.

-Not really. We're just in the same class, that's all. Or is it a crime to be in the same class as her? — Ren asked, raising an eyebrow.

-I see… You seemed a lot closer than that yesterday morning.

-It's just a mere coincidence… or can't I be close to her?

-No. Is just intriguing. I heard she was a victim of Mr. Kamoshida but was that all there was to it…?

-What are you implying Ms. Niijima? — Ren asked in a harsh tone.

-Nothing. Either way, closer inspection should clear everything up…

-Ms. Niijima, I do suggest you stay away from this. You're not the police, neither your sister. I think we're done here. Goodbye.

-Goodbye.

Ren felt his phone rang, and he promptly took it from his pocket, seeing the message from Edgeworth.

Nothing. I do suggest you search for your own. Madarame has nothing indicating he committed some crime or anything of the sort. — Miles answered.

Understood.

—

Ginza District. Miles Edgeworth's apartment.

After School.

—

-Chief Miles.

-Ren. Please come in.

Ren went inside the apartment and whistled seeing the size of the apartment.

-You guys have some money to spend on, huh? — Ren was surprised to see the apartment decorations.

-Not that much, but I'm glad you'd like it. So, do you need anything else besides the thing you requested?

-No. Just the information about Madarame.

-As I said before, I didn't find any information that implicates Madarame, however, there are some rumors about him.

-I see… Well, time to make some fieldwork. At least after my exams.

-About them… Are you studying for them?

-Yes. I'd believe I'll accomplish a good rank but I'm not too confident.

-I'm sure you'll pass with good grades, but that doesn't mean you're going to slack off. You need to study to keep your grades.

-Okay, I will. By the way, how are you dealing with things here in Japan?

-Fine. Is great to work as an international prosecutor here in Japan. It's the breeze I needed. Honestly being the Chief Prosecutor is quite an issue sometimes.

-So, you'll stay here for some time, right?

-Right, at least a month here, until I go back to Los Angeles. Then I'll go back and forth to keep our investigation. As a member of the ACE Team, I must keep our investigation active, and I really doubt Wright will keep the investigation on track.

-Your lack of faith is disturbing.

Miles sighed, annoyed.

-Okay Darth Vader, I do understand your sarcasm.

Ren laughed.

-Well, what can I say? That's one of my main traits. But seriously, do you really think he couldn't do it?

-We think you're the only one who can do it. Honestly, you're too involved in this case as us. And seeing your actual situation…

-You believe the same as me, this is related to the Metaverse somehow. No, I'm sure it's related, but without proof.

-It's useless. *sigh* Look, I'm not against you investigating, but you need to be careful. We don't know who's the one behind it and seeing how that person is acting now.

-Speaking of the devil, I saw him the last few days. He didn't recognize me though.

-So he's here… I bet he's up to something. Ren, be careful. If he recognizes you…

-I know. I'll be careful.

-Well, I do believe you need to go back home. Your guardian is waiting for you.

-Understood. See you later Chief Miles.

-See you later, Ren.

—

Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc

Evening.

—

-Hello, Amamiya speaking.

-Ren, did you arrive at Leblanc?

-Hello Chief Miles. Yes, I already arrived at Leblanc.

-That's good. I was worried you couldn't reach it. By the way, was I useful to you?

-Yes, you are. You don't need to worry about it, you know that?

-I know, however, it bothers me to leave you with your hands empty without any lead.

-I know that, but don't worry. I'll be okay.

-Are you sure?

-Absolutely. By the way, we should eat something some time. I kinda wish to go to the hotel buffet I went to with Ann and Ryuji at Shibuya.

-I heard the food there is delicious.

-And it is. Plus, we can reunite for the old-time sake.

-Sometimes you sounded like an old man.

Ren chuckled.

-What can I say? I walk among old men as well.

-I do believe you're not referring to me.

-Not only you. Chief Nick as well.

Miles sighed.

-Why do I still expect some things from you…? You'll never change in some aspects.

-At least I'm not the only one, oh number one fan of Steel Samurai.

-GYAH! Do you still remember that!?

-It's hard to forget. Don't worry, your secret "not so secret" — Ren added mentally — is safe with me. "At least with me…"

-I know it's safe with you. Now then I called you to check if you arrived home safely. I'm glad you're well. Bye.

-Bye Chief Miles. "He's still so dense, but I'm sure that's the way people like him." Ren commented to himself as he entered Leblanc.

—

May, 11. Wednesday.

Shujin Academy. First Floor.

Early Morning.

—

-What's that commotion…? — Ren asked as he saw some students commenting on something on the bulletin board.

-I can't believe this… A school assembly? During the exam week? The hell are they thinking?

-It's the day after tomorrow, right? I wonder if it's gonna be about Mr. Kamoshida again…

Ugh… I can't believe the school is messing with our schedules like this…

-I don't care what it's about—It's gonna have nothing to do with us, students. I wish they'd stop dragging us into their mess.

-I couldn't agree more. — Ren whispered to himself.

-A mandatory assembly during exam week, huh? Sounds rough for all of you. — Morgana said.

-I wouldn't say… — Ren whispered with sarcasm. — Still, I bet it's something important. For they do that in the middle of the exam week…

-I totally agree. By the way, ready for the exams?

-Ready.

Ren went to his classroom and sat in his seat, waiting patiently for the exams to begin.

—

May, 13. Friday.

Shujin Academy. Gymnasium/Auditorium.

Afternoon.

—

-Ever since that specific incident, many of you have voiced concerns I could not bear to ignore. — Kobayakawa said.

"After the scandal, you couldn't." Ren retorted mentally to himself in a dry tone.

-We believe the mental health of our student body is absolutely vital, so we've acquired the services of a therapist.

"A therapist, huh…?"

-The floor is yours, Doctor…

A slim, yet gentleman took the stand, stood in front of the audience, with a gentle smile plastered on his face. Wearing a lab coat, a social blue shirt, loose dark blue tie, lightly brown pants, and wearing glass on his face, he simply looked at the audience with a smile.

-Isn't he hot?

-*ahem* It's nice to meet you all. — The therapist said gently.

-Whoa, his voice is sexy!

"Wow. The teacher fetish is strong on that girl." Ren thought in disappointment seeing the girl gawking at the therapist.

-My name is— huh?

The microphone went off suddenly and he checked if the device was working properly, giving a slight knock on it, making the microphone work again.

-My name is Takuto Maruki. — Makuri presented himself. — Thank you for welcoming me to your school.

Maruki bowed, however since he was too close to the microphone he ended up hitting his forehead against it. Kobayakawa sweated nervously due to his stunt.

-No need to be formal with me, though. I'm just here to counsel anyone who's interested. — He looked at the audience and smiled again. — You can even call me Doc if that would help you to feel comfortable. Any assistance you need, I'll be— Oh… I guess I'm not really good at helping with money problems…

Kobayakawa took the stand and gently pushed Maruki aside.

-Thank you, Dr. Maruki.

—

Shujin Academy. Courtyard.

Afternoon

—

-Yo. — Ryuji called.

Ann and Ren turned at Ryuji, who was with a serious frown plastered on his face.

-I know what you are thinking. Spill it out. — Ren said with a serious frown as well.

-You ever expect this place to actually give a shit about our mental health? — Ryuji asked.

-I don't. — Ren shrugged. — But since the trial, the spotlights are on Shujin now.

-And there's the fact that our school's made national news because of the scandal. Maybe they figure they'd look even worse if they didn't do anything for us. — Ann said.

-And it's a way to cool things down here. I doubt that'll be useful anyway. — Ren commented, crossing his arms.

-True… And Doctor, uh… Whatshisnameagain?

-Maruki. — Ann corrected Ryuji.

-Yeah—wasn't that guy just basically clownin' it up onstage?

-I believe the word is bumbling. That's a way to define him. — Ren said.

-Yeah. You really think he'll do us any good? — Ryuji asked.

-Honestly…

-Ryuji… — Ann said, seeing Maruki coming in their direction.

-Hey there! — He greeted with a smile. — Sakamoto-kun and Takamaki-san, right? — Both blondes nodded in agreement. — And that must make you… Amamiya-Kun.

-Hello, it's nice to meet you Doctor Maruki. It seems you already know my name, but I'm Ren Amamiya. — Ren said, quite surprised, bowing to the doctor.

-Nice to meet you too, Amamiya-kun. — Maruki said bowing as well.

-Hey, wait! How d'you know our names? — Ryuji exclaimed angrily.

-Well, I was informed of certain students before beginning my tenure here. Those who had, ah… previous interactions with Mr. Kamoshida.

"Quite obvious. That's why I'm not that surprised by how he knows our names."

-Especially Amamiya-kun. It must've been tough for you after having just transferred here.

-You could say it is still tough due to my… situation, people tend to avoid me. But it's not as tough as you think. I'm already used to that.

-You're quite the tough youngster—just don't overdo it, okay?

-Okay.

-So, whaddya want with us? — Ryuji asked, calmer this time.

-I know I already offered my services to the student body earlier, but are you three interested in counseling?

-Nope, not at all.

-Huh!?

"Ouch. That was too straight, Ryuji. Now I do feel bad for him." Ren thought as he saw Maruki's reaction.

-How's that surprising? — Ryuji asked.

-You were just a touch more emphatic about it than I'd expected… — Maruki confessed. — Ah! But if you come to my office, you can have free snacks! All you can eat… would be nice, but there's still plenty to be had. So, how about it?

-Tell me more about these snacks! — Ren said, adjusting his glasses.

-Hey, don't fall for that! — Ann exclaimed.

Ren laughed, and Maruki too.

-Okay, now then, tell me why you need to counsel us. — Ren said with a serious frown.

Maruki stopped laughing and adjusted his glasses as well, running his hand on the back of his head in an awkward way.

-To be frank, I've explicitly ordered to provide counseling to the students directly involved with Mr. Kamoshida. It's the school's interest… for its students.

"It's for us, or for Mr. Kobayakawa?" Ren asked harshly in his mind.

-Ah, the school's interest, huh? — Ryuji said, with an idea in his mind.

-I know that asking you to be open with a complete stranger like myself is a lot. — Maruki admitted. — Making this mandatory wouldn't do any good, either. Might as well turn it into a worthwhile experience…

-I see. Well, we…

-Ohh, I know! — Makuri said interrupting Ren. — If you attend my counseling sessions, I'll teach you different ways to improve your mental acuity. Like, ways to hone your concentration before exams, or not getting nervous on dates. How's that sound?

-Uh…

-Eh…

"Hmm… Mental training, huh? If I make good use of this, it may aid in our Phantom Thieves activities, and on my trials too as an attorney…"

-There are also snacks… — Maruki offered.

-Alright, alright, enough with the snacks! — Ryuji exclaimed annoyed, then snapped his attention to Ren. — So, which way are you leanin'?

-There's no harm in doing a little, besides it could be a useful experience for us.

Ryuji sighed in defeat.

-I guess it'd just be more trouble for us if we didn't go. — Ryuji said.

-Uhh, yeah… — Ann said defeated as well.

-Really? Then, I guess it's a deal. I'll be in the nurse's office—feel free to come by whenever it's convenient for you.

-Welp, we should get goin'. — Ryuji said.

-Okay, I'll see you later. — Maruki said.

Ann and Ryuji left.

-Thanks for taking my counseling into consideration. Now that we have a deal, I promise I'll do my best to help you.

-Thank you Doctor Maruki.

—

Unknown Location

Unknown Time.

—

-Stop.

Ren looked at Sae, trying to keep himself awake. He felt his body tremble due to the exhaustion of the injuries over his body.

-What do you want Prosecutor Niijima? We're running out of time.

-I know. Quiet. — She ordered harshly. — It's hard to believe an ordinally high school student could accomplish such grandiose heists. One would need a heart of steel, unaffected by outside influences and prepared to act without hesitating.

-Stating the obvious again, are we? What do you want to know about Prosecutor Niijima? — Ren asked.

-It's quite obvious your training as an attorney had toughened you up, but not enough to perform these grandiose heists. There has to be someone who helped strengthen your mental state. Sounds like someone you know?

Ren stood quiet and only smiled at Sae.

-Give me a name!

—

May, 13. Friday.

Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.

Courtyard.

Afternoon

—

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 Councillor Persona,

I have obtained the winds of blessing that

Shall lead to freedom and new power…

Ren felt a new part of his power rising inside him as his bond with Maruki was being forged.

-What's the holdup, dude? — Ryuji call Ren.

-I'm going.

-Sorry for keeping you like this.

-There's no need to apologize. Well then, Doctor Maruki, see you later.

-Well then.

Ren left the place.

"Doctor Takuto Maruki… He looks like a good person." Ren thought as he went back to his classroom.