—
Metaverse. Madarame's Palace.
After School.
—
-Oh yeah, we haven't decided on the new recruit's codename yet. — Morgana said after they arrived at the entrance.
-It has to be "Kitsune". You know with that Kitsune mask and everything. — Ann said, looking at Yusuke's mask.
-Hell yeah! That really leaves an impression. — Ryuji said in agreement.
-Are you talking about me? — Yusuke asked.
-Yes. So, what do you want your name over here to be? — Ann replied with the question. Yusuke thought for a moment.
-I'd say "Da Vinci".
-Nope. — Ryuji replied to Yusuke's shock.
-It doesn't make sense. It doesn't sound imposing either… And sounds like a mutant ninja turtle — Ann said.
-Yeah, all we need now is Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello… — Ren joked.
-What the hell what are you talkin' about? — Ryuji asked confused.
-Never watched the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? — Ren and Ann asked, visibly surprised.
-Nope. — Was Ryuji's reply.
-Actually, it's kinda comprehensible, since it's an American TV show… Well never mind, just ignore that. — Ann said.
-I see… — Both Ryuji and Yusuke said.
-'Sides, you've got the mask as Ann said… and there's that weird tail… All right! You're Abura-age! — Ryuji said.
-Hell no! — Ann said and Morgana snickered.
-Very well. — Yusuke said.
-He's agreed to it!? — Morgana exclaimed, surprised.
-It's decided then! Abura-age! — Ryuji exclaimed, surprised.
-Nuh-uh! Not happening. — Ann said.
-At this rate, I do prefer the ninja turtle name. All he needs is to change his outfit to a turtle's based-like outfit and wear a bandana instead of a mask. — Ren commented sardonically. That was enough for Morgana to laugh.
-What is so funny? — Yusuke asked, confused.
-Nothing… Nothing! — Morgana said between the laughs.
-Do you have any ideas, Joker? — Ann asked.
Ren only smiled.
-Since we have a "Panther" in our group, only fair that we use another animal-based name in our team. So, welcome to our team, "Fox". — Ren said with a smile.
-Ohhh, just keep it literal, huh? Sounds good to me. — Ryuji said.
-What do you think, Fox? — Morgana asked.
-It's acceptable. — Yusuke replied.
-It's settled then. Let's go. — Ryuji said excitedly.
-You guys heard Skull, let's go.
-Wait, before we go, we should have Joker decide who our starting lineup is from here on out. — Morgana said.
-Starting lineup? You mean the ones who'll be going in first? — Ann asked.
-Yeah. Now that Fox has joined us, it'll be harder to move around as a group. We'll stand out more too. — Morgana explained.
-It makes sense since we've been operating as a small group since day one. — Ren said. — So, we should move divided into two groups. The mainline group will consist of four members.
-That should be best, considering how we've been operating to this point, having four starters in the main group should be the best option. Anyone else can be backup. — Morgana said.
-And I guess we always gotta have our leader with us, right? — Ryuji asked.
-Exactly. That's why we'll have Joker choose the remaining three. — Morgana explained.
-And what should the backup do? Would it be best for them to stay outside the palace? — Yusuke asked.
-No, they should come in as well, but maintain a reasonable distance from the main group. In other words, the starting lineup is the first wave of our infiltration force. — Morgana said.
-That's necessary if we need backup. — Ren explained.
-That said, we'll leave the team composition to you Joker.
-Got it. Mona, can you give your space to Fox. We need to train him to endure the battles.
-Okay. I'll focus on supporting the team.
As they go back inside the museum, Ren checks his equipment one last time before reaching their destination. At the Central Garden, they walked onto the path which was open with their presence. At the garden, the security of the place was still down.
-Sweet, the security's still down! — Ryuji said.
-Thanks to all my hard work. — Ann said, sighing.
-…What do you mean by that? — Yusuke asked, confused.
-Don't mind her. — Ren said.
-Yeah, don't worry about it. C'mon, let's keep going! — Ryuji said.
Went inside the gaudy building, Ren checked the map once again.
-That's the Treasure Chamber Hall. We're close to our objective. — Ren said. — I spotted a Shadow. Let's go.
Ren jumped on the Shadow and ripped off his mask, forcing the Shadow to reveal its true form, becoming an origami humanoid monster.
-Be careful everyone! That Shadow's a strong one! — Morgana warned.
Fighting against the Shadow, the Phantom Thieves used their Personas to attack the Shadow. The origami monster strikes with all his strength against Yusuke who dodged the attack, then he went against Ann, who also dodged.
-Goemon! Bufu!
-Ame-no-Uzumi! Agi!
-Carmen! Agi!
-Captain Kidd! Zio!
Striking with their skills, the Shadow was knocked down and the thieves performed an All-Out Attack to finish it, however, the Shadow withstood the attack.
-We couldn't kill it!?
-For real!?
-Focus on the battle! It's far from over. — Ren said. — Fox, use this.
Ren threw a ring towards Yusuke, who managed to catch it.
-What is it? — He asked.
-It's a ring with some power imbued in it. It should help you.
-Very well.
Wearing the ring, Yusuke felt the power growing inside him. With the new power, he called his Persona once again.
-Persona! Goemon! Frei!
Using nuclear skill, Yusuke managed to knock down the origami Shadow. Surrounding the Shadow, the thieves performed another All-Out Attack, that time managing to kill the Shadow.
-It was fun while it lasted, goodbye. — Yusuke said, making an eccentric pose.
After the end of the battle, they went back to their infiltration and when they were going to exit the hall, Ren saw another brochure.
"That brochure…" He thought, going towards the brochure.
-Ohh, do you think that could be another pamphlet?
-Yes. We should take it with us, just in case. — Ren said, taking one of the pamphlets and checking the contents of it. — As I thought.
-Hey, ain't that pamphlet different from the one we got before? — Ryuji asked.
-You're right. It is. — Ren said.
-It says it's the second out of two. This is lucky. It's the rest of the map. — Morgana said happily.
-And with that our map is complete! — Ann said happily. — Now we can use it to figure out where the treasure is, right?
-Yes, we can figure it out. Let's see…
-I suspect it's in the innermost point of this place. If that's the case…
-It's supposed to be right here. — Ren said, pointing to a certain point on the map.
-That's the most suspicious spot, it seems like the main hall here. — Morgana confirmed.
-Still, it's a long way before we get there. — Ren noted.
-Hm, we will need to pass through the lounge and the gallery in order to reach it… — Yusuke said, analyzing the map.
-We need to be careful as long as we proceed from here. — Ren said closing the map
-The deeper in we go, the tighter security's going to be. We need to advance carefully, okay? Now then, let's go. — Morgana said.
Proceeding further, they went into the lounge hall, which was full of lasers.
-Be careful everyone, there's a labyrinth of lasers. — Ren said.
-Yeah… It feels like I might touch them accidentally… — Ann said.
-Well then, follow me and do the same as I. — Ren said using the Vision of the Truth and proceeding carefully.
Going into the laser labyrinth, the thieves following Ren's lead, went through the place, dodging the lasers and proceeding carefully. Ambushing one of the Shadows along in the room, the thieves fought against sprout-humanoid like Shadows. Defeating one of them, they ambushed the other one.
-Waaah! Save me, Lord Madarame… — The Shadow begged.
-He doesn't care about you. — Ren replied coldly.
-You're lying. Lord Madarame will save me.
-If that's the case, where is him? I doubt he would come.
-No… What should I do…?
-Don't worry, we'll let you live. In exchange, you should lend me your power. — Ren said seriously.
-Then let's talk! I gotta find out if you're a weird human or not!
"I am weird, that's for sure." Ren thought. "Still, I need to convince him somehow."
-This one seems gloomy. Don't say anything too forceful. — Morgana warned.
-I can't believe you're fighting a kid like me… Pick on someone your own size! You're a big bully! Don't you think that's "immature"? — The Shadow asked.
-Now that you mentioned it… — Ren said, slightly disappointed with himself. "I guess I can't argue on this one."
The Shadow started to sweat nervously.
-Hey! You need to have more "Kamen sense". — The Shadow replied.
"What's a "Kamen sense"? A Kamen rider thing?" Ren asked himself confused.
-…Hey, why'd you done this to me? Is it 'cause I wasn't a "good kid"? — The Shadow asked.
-No…?
-That means I'm a good kid then, right? Then… Then why? — The Shadow asked indignantly.
-Hey… I can explain… — Ren said poorly.
-Doesn't matter. I really don't like you, mister! It is okay if I get mad!? — The Shadow said, attacking them with fury.
-Dammit!
-Evil touch!
The Shadow sent the attack to Ann, but Ryuji jumped into the attack direction. The Shadow managed to inflict fear on Ryuji, and he tried to attack Ann, who dodged and counterattack, killing the Shadow. After that, Ryuji went back to normal.
-Are you alright? — Ann asked.
-I'll be alright. — Ryuji replied. — Sorry 'bout that.
-It's okay. Here, some soda for you.
-Thanks.
-Are you two alright? — Ren asked.
-Yes, we are. — Ryuji replied.
-Okay. I'm sorry to ask you this, but we need to keep going. We need to get out of this labyrinth.
-Okay, just give us a few seconds.
-All right. I'll take a look around to see where we should go.
Ren checked the map once again and used the Vision of Truth to look around, seeing how they should proceed.
-You will really be alright? — Ann asked worriedly.
-Hey, don't worry. I will be, all right? — Ryuji said. — 'Sides the effect of that attack vanished when you defeated that Shadow.
-I know, but…
-It's okay, it wasn't your fault. Now then, let's keep goin'.
-Let's.
Going back to the exploration, Ren went to the other side of the room and reached the corridor on the other side. There, Ren noticed a Shadow and hid behind the wall.
-H-Hey, there's a strong-lookin' one over there! We've seen that kind before. — Ryuji said.
-His stance conveys the notion that he is no ordinary foe.
-He isn't it. That's the control room. — Ren said while checking the map. — He's the one guarding the place, making sure nobody will get too close.
-So we need to take him down in order to proceed. Joker, we'll need to reach that room to disable the security to proceed. If we want to ensure a safe infiltration route, we'll need to reach that room. — Morgana said determinedly. — Forcing our way through seems to be our only option.
-Then everyone gets ready, that'll be a tough fight.
Ren walked towards the Shadow of the control room, pointing his gun with the others.
-Hm? Who are you!? How did you get in there!? — The security Shadow asked surprised.
-It doesn't matter, you better step aside, or else we'll have to force you to. — Ren replied.
-You expect me to move just because you tell me to!? I'm afraid you're sorely mistaken!
The Shadow revealed his true form, becoming a winged monk with a shell trumpet.
-You'll pay with your life for that insolence! — The Shadow said, calling his backup. Two tengu-like Shadows appeared to assist him.
-Okay, hard way then! — Ren said dodging one of the attacks.
Shooting the Shadows, they managed to distract them, as Yusuke used his Persona to knock the tengu-like Shadows down and attacked the leader with the Frei skill. Ryuji managed to stun the winged monk with the Zio skill, as the battle continued. One of the tengu-like Shadows recovered and attacked Ren with the Taunt skill, infuriating him. In retribution, the black-haired thief mindlessly attacked the Shadow, killing him in the process.
-Be careful, Joker's losing his cool! He's getting too reckless! — Morgana warned.
Ann and Ryuji attacked using their Personas and Yusuke went with Goemon, using the Frei Skill to attack the winged monk, knocking him down.
-Goemon! Bufu!
Killing the other Shadow, Yusuke passed the baton to Ryuji.
-Captain Kidd! Headbutt!
With the physical skill, Ryuji defeated the Shadow, ending the battle. After that, Ren went back to normal.
-Sorry about losing my cool. — Ren said, slightly embarrassed.
-Nah, it's okay. — Ryuji said, then he commented tiredly. —Phew, that guy was tough… I guess that's just par for the course in a Palace…
-True… It really was on a totally different level from the other enemies though… — Ann said tiredly as well.
-Hm, hey, he dropped something… — Ren noted grabbing a card.
-Hm, he dropped some sort of card. — Yusuke noted.
-That's… a skill? — Ren asked confused.
-What's that for? I've never seen anything like it. — Morgana said.
-Ain't it just some kinda loot? — Ryuji asked.
-You've never seen anything like that, huh? Maybe they could tell me more about it. — Ren said, putting the card inside his pocket. — Let's go back to our exploration. The control room it's right up ahead.
-Yeah, let's go back to explorin'. — Ryuji said excitedly.
Going into the control room, Ren went to the terminal and tried to access it.
-Please input the password. — Was the terminal's message.
-Great. — Ren said bitterly.
-Ugh, another one…? — Ryuji asked annoyed.
-We'll just have to look for someone else who might know it… — Morgana said.
-Time to eavesdrop on some conversation over again. Let's head back to the laser labyrinth and search around. — Ren said.
-Got it.
Ren before going, took the treasure inside the locked Treasure Chest displayed outside the room, finding a katana inside it.
-Good one, man. — Ryuji said excitedly.
-We got our hands on quite the weapon… I'd love to get a feel for it… — Yusuke said.
-It's all yours. — Ren said, giving the weapon to the ronin thief.
-…Hm, this fits me perfectly! What an excellent find.
-I'm sure it is. Now then, let's move.
Going back to the room entrance, where Ren spotted two Shadows talking with each other. Ren and the others hid behind the wall, listening to their conversation.
-I hear the intruders have already got past the central garden security…
-Yeah, I just got a call earlier to change the password here too…
-What to? Better not be simple.
-Well, I was having some trouble coming up with a good one… For now, I set the numbers for Lord Madarame's feet.
-Lord Madarame's feet? What are you talking about?
Looking around, the Shadow looked at the corner and said:
-Let's get back on duty. There's a chance the intruders are nearby.
The thieves went back to the corridor and reunited on a blind spot.
-Madarame's feet? What the hell is that supposed to mean!? — Ryuji asked, irritated and confused.
-Maybe… his shoe size? — Ann guessed.
-Yo, Fox. You know that bastard's shoe size?
-Unfortunately, I have never heard him mention it. Are we sure that is the proper password? — Yusuke questioned.
-No. It's far too obvious and highly improbable. — Ren replied. — Actually, something had come to my mind.
-So, what do you think that could mean…? — Morgana asked.
-Remember how simple the previous password was. It's something related to this place… This place… I got it.
-Do you know what the password is?
-No, but I know where the password is.
Dealing with the Shadows over the place, Ren went back to the hall entrance, going straight to Madarame's statue.
-There's something written here, as I thought. Let's see: "Here we praise our most holy lord Ichiryusai Madarame, the one ray of hope in this depraved world. He stands alone as his two adept hands paint into the future. None shall ever match his excellence." Wow, modesty is not his forte.
-Pfft! He's really puffin' his chest out here, ain't here…? — Ryuji said indignantly.
-Well that's not important. The important thing is that our password is here.
-What!? Dude.
-Hold on a moment… Are you saying…? — Yusuke asked.
-Yes.
-What are you guys talkin' about? — Ryuji asked confused.
-Could this be the spot of "Madarame's feet" the security guard mentioned? — Yusuke asked Ren, who nodded in affirmation.
-That's the only logical explanation. I'll take note of the password. Quickly, help me to keep an eye on the Shadows around. — Ren said, taking his notepad and making note of the password.
-I see… It's at his feet… Oh right! But isn't the password supposed to be a number of some kind?
-Hm, I do believe there are numbers here though. "One" ray of hope in this depraved world. He stands "alone" as his "two" adept hands paint into the future. "None" shall ever match him… That means.
-The password is 1120. Alone can be considered as one, as none is zero. It's a puzzle playing with words and numbers.
-Yeah, that must be it!
-Sweet! Let's head back and shut down the security!
-As if I'll allow you petty thieves to do such a thing! — The security Shadow of the place said, striking the thieves with all his strength. The thieves managed to dodge the attack.
-What have I told you, guys!? — Ren said, irritated.
-Sorry.
Ren sighed as he dodged another attack from the Shadow.
-It doesn't matter. Let's take him down!
Fighting against the Shadow, the Thieves had a difficult time against him, being hurt several times in the process. Ann and Ren using her recovery skill managed to keep the team on their feet and still battling. Ren slashed with his knife the Shadow as Ryuji smashed with his mace.
-Persona! Carmen! Agi!
Knocking down the Shadow, the thieves performed an All-Out Attack, however, that wasn't enough to defeat the Shadow. Ryuji used his Persona to electrocute the Shadow, managing to stun him in the process, and Yusuke finished, blasting him with the Frei skill.
-Are you guys alright? — Ren asked worriedly.
-We will be.
-Here, take this. — Ren said, giving some medicine to the team.
-Thanks. — Ann, Ryuji, and Yusuke said drinking the medicine.
-Where did you get this? — Yusuke asked, genuinely curious.
-I have my contacts, but that's not important. The important thing here is for you guys to recover.
-Joker we're so sorry… — Ann said.
-It's okay Panther. We all were distracted. — Ren said. — That's why I told you guys to keep an eye out. We all can't be distracted. We need to be on alert all the time inside the Palace.
-Yeah, but…
-Joker's right. We can't afford the luxury of getting ambushed by them. — Morgana said with a serious face. — Well then, let's head back to the control room and try the password we found.
-Let's.
Heading back to the control room, Ren sat in front of the terminal and inserted the password.
-Password accepted. Disengaging security protocol.
Then the doors were open, liberating new areas of the lasers maze.
-Whoa… that opened all sorts of kinds of stuff. — Ryuji said.
-This is lucky. It may not deactivate the laser maze, but that'll allow us to go to more places. — Ren said.
-We'll definitely be able to go to more places now! Come on, let's get moving! — Morgana said excitedly.
Back into the laser maze, Ren and the thieves managed to move more freely into that space. Ren took the Treasures that were once inaccessible and then explored the laser maze. Looking around, he noticed several giant canvases over a wall. Going to the closest one, he noticed the painting was waving.
-Hm…
-What a giant painting. — Ann said.
-Indeed. It bears such a bizarre texture as well. It's as though I could simply slip inside. — Yusuke commented, touching the painting. — Wh-What the—!?
-Are you alright? What happened? — Ren asked.
-Y-Yes… M-My hand… It actually entered the painting… — He answered surprised.
-Hm… — Ren said, looking at the paintings. — It seems that's our only path towards the Treasure.
-Well, I don't see any other path for us to take. Let's give it a try! — Morgana said.
Jumping into the painting, they heard a raging growl. Ren recognized the voice's owner.
-Madarame.
-How dare you trample on my tranquil bamboo garden with those grimy feet! You shall not leave alive! — Madarame said with rage.
-What the heck was that…!? — Ryuji asked, surprised and slightly afraid.
-Madarame's thoughts. — Ren replied.
-It's probably that. There's no need to panic. — Morgana assured.
-Madarame… — Yusuke said.
Ren rushed to the right, going into another painting.
-Oh… We're in another painting! — Ann exclaimed
-Hm… So this space is not merely one, but a multitude of paintings. — Yusuke noted.
-It seems like it. I thought of that while looking at them. It's quite odd the way they're displayed on the wall and how they looked alike. — Ren said, walking around, looking carefully at each way he should go.
-You guys're tellin' me they're all connected? — Ren nods in agreement. — Which one goes where? — Ryuji asked.
-That, we will have to continue walking to find out… — Yusuke said.
-Besides, only guessing which way is not going to lead us anywhere. — Ren said, going another way.
-Joker, wait! Can't you spot the connections with your skills? — Morgana asked.
-Maybe I can. Follow me and don't get lost.
Jumping out of the window, they went further, but Ren noticed Yusuke was standing in the same place, lost in thoughts.
-Are you alright? — Ren said, coming back to Yusuke.
-So he dares to call us thieves who dirty his heart… The one who has sullied the very nature of the art itself has no right to accuse us of such a thing! — Yusuke said indignantly.
-As much as I understand your indignation, you should save them for later. We need to keep going. — Ren said while touching Yusuke's shoulder.
Going into the ventilation shaft the thieves reached another part of the lounge right corridor, and going further, reaching a new area. There they found a safe room and spotted a Shadow protecting the place. Ren went towards his direction and ripped off his mask, engaging in a battle. Easily knocking them down, the thieves ambushed the Shadows. Taking their money, they let the Shadow leave the place. They went into the gallery when they saw several paintings displayed on the wall.
-Huh. More big paintings just like the ones we saw before… — Ryuji said.
-There is something off about these though… — Yusuke said.
-Different art styles, different locations. — Ren noted. — And on top of that…
-There are even two frames with no painting at all. — Yusuke noted.
-Let's take a closer look. We might find out the mystery behind it.
Going inside the gallery stand, they went to one of the paintings. Once in front of it, Ren looked at the painting of a desert, with some camels drawn on it. Jumping inside, he used his skill to look at which way we should go. Then he heard Madarame's thoughts.
-Alas, this world is a desert filled with laymen who cannot understand true beauty…! The slow drain of my skill is inevitable when I am surrounded by such mediocrity…
-…So he's gonna blame the world for his declinin' skill? Heh, that bastard never had any real talent, to begin with! — Ryuji said indignantly.
-He has the skill, Skull, to con several people and to use his pupils. Ignore his thoughts and let's keep going. — Ren said.
Ren and the others went to the right and jumped into another painting, this time the Mount Fuji and of a Shintoism gate in front of the mount. Clouds run through the landscape, giving an imponent atmosphere to the place.
-The gods, even in their dormancy, are worshiped constantly. People gather under shrines' gates, offer their money, and return fully satisfied. Art is practically the same. In the end, it is all just a matter of imagination!
-Huh!? Even if that's true, that doesn't give you the right to be deceiving people. — Ann said.
-What atrocity! Abusing the faith of the people to obtain his profit, he doesn't have any shame? People's faith should be respected, not be used like that. — Ren said indignantly. — Let's go.
Ren went into the gate as Ryuji went straight to the right.
-Skull, what are you doing?
-It doesn't go like last time? — The pirate-themed thief asked.
-Isn't it odd a gate like that's standing exactly in the middle of this painting? I do say we should go there.
-I dunno, man. That seems totally suspicious to me. Y'know, let me go to the right and we'll see what happens.
-Okay.
-Joker… — Morgana warned.
-Skull has a point, besides, I have a feeling. We should let him go. — Ren replied.
-If you say so…
-I'm going with him.
-Panther!? — Morgana exclaimed, surprised, looking at Ann, who shrugged.
-Who knows what we might find. — She said following Ryuji.
Ryuji went to the right and to his shock he went straight back to the first painting.
-Wait, this camel… We're back at the first freakin' one! — Ryuji exclaimed, surprised.
-How's that possible? — Ann asked.
-Let's get back to 'em. They might have an answer for that.
Going back to the mount painting, Ren was surprised to see both blondes back.
-What happened? — He asked.
-We went back to the first freakin' one. — Ryuji replied.
-As I thought… So they're not connected exactly as they seem…
-That means we'll have to keep trying until we find the right way. — Morgana said seriously.
-It seems like it. Let's keep going.
After Going into the gate, they went to another painting, that time the landscape was inside a valley, surrounded by the vegetation of the forest.
-Hard work is not what makes a sapling grow thick with green leaves. — Madarame said, surprising the thieves. — Too many young people do not see the true value in youth these days. What fools… Is it truly wrong for an expert such as myself to capitalize on that youth before it wastes away?
-What the heck? He's basically saying he's jealous of young talent… Look at me! I was turned into a cat and I'm still fighting. Age isn't a valid excuse. — Morgana exclaimed indignantly as well.
-I do agree most people don't value youth, but that doesn't mean you have the right to abuse them to get fame and money. Using their efforts to become something is far worse than wasting their youth, it's dreadful. — Ren said. He saw a scaffolding with a golden panel on it. — Hm…
Jumping out of the painting, Ren went to the panel and pressed the button on it. That changed one of the paintings, revealing the painting of a ship sailing into the raging sea and dealing with the wrath of a sea monster.
-Look! Another painting! — Ryuji exclaimed.
-That's what I call an ingenious mechanism. — Ren said.
-So passing through one hidden route leads to the formation of another… What an elaborate ruse. It's highly like there is a new path through the paintings.
-Indeed. We should investigate further. — Ren said, jumping back into the painting.
Moving towards the stone pillar, Ren went into it, going back to the first painting. Going forward, he went to the right and reached the new painting.
-What the—!? How we…? — Ryuji exclaimed, surprised.
-The original path was blocked. Since we managed to reveal the painting, our path was now unblocked. Now—
-Could a ship skirt across the ocean if its crew had to constantly worry about what sea life may lie below? — Madarame asked, interrupting Ren. — Art, life, water… They are all identical. The one who ascends to the summit is the victor!
-So he's usin' all those pretty words, but he's basically sayin' people are like steppin' stones. That's just like what he did to all those kids—crushed 'em for his "art"! What a piece of shit. — Ryuji said.
-Excuses after excuses… He's just running away from reality… Facing the problems of reality and trying to change them is a victory itself. — Ren said, then he glanced at the octopus tentacles. — Now let's stop complaining. There's something that's worth more of our attention.
-Is that… an octopus? It's pretty damn big. Do you think it's safe for us to approach it? — Morgana asked.
-No, but to proceed we have to approach it. — Ren said, slowly approaching the octopus.
-Joker, it's just a damn painting. — Ryuji said.
-As much I hate to agree, Skull's right. I guess… — Morgana said. — It is just a painting, after all. I'm sure we'll be okay.
Then the octopus attacked with one of his tentacles, sending Ren flying away out of the painting. Regaining his poise, the black-haired thief managed to land gracefully on the ground, avoiding any injuries. The others followed him, dodging the octopus attack and jumping out of the painting. Ren sighed in annoyance.
-Hm, that was a valiant effort. — Yusuke noted.
-Something had to change in that painting. I'm sure of it.
Then two Shadows appeared, patrolling the grounds.
-Oh, crap! Joker, enemies!
-Let's take them down, then we'll go back.
After dealing with the Shadows, they went back to the scaffolding and jumped back into the painting. Back to the ship painting, Ren managed to jump out of the painting, landing on another scaffolding. Seeing another button, he quickly pressed it. That made the other blank canvas reveal its contents, showing the painting of the garden of a traditional house in the heartland, with a lake and a large forest in the middle of autumn.
-Another painting. — Ann said.
-Ah, there are no longer any empty frames at this point. — Yusuke noted.
-Our path has been revealed, now we just need to figure out how we should proceed to reach our destination. — Ren said, jumping on the other scaffolding and jumping back inside the painting, being followed by the others. Going through the gate of the mount, and jumping onto the stone pillar, they reached the last painting.
-That's beautiful… — Ann said, admiring the landscape.
-Beauty is merely a mirage… Transforming that into money is what brings about true happiness. — Madarame said, scaring Ann. — My fine mansion, my lifestyle among the chosen few… Those things are the true "art"!
-So running your atelier out of a shabby, run-down shack was simply an act after all… How foolish I have been deceived for so long… — Yusuke said bitterly.
-Fox… — Ann said.
-What a vain person. All he cares about is money and fame. All of that will end one day. All the things will end one day. — Ren said. — Don't worry, Fox. We'll change his heart.
-Yes… We will…
Reaching the other side, they jumped out of the painting and the thieves went towards the door. Once again, Yusuke was standing in front of the painting, lost in his thoughts.
-Fox… — Ren called.
-How despicable… We have encountered so many of his paintings, yet not once did he mention a love for art. These are no paintings. They are just meaningless self-assertions placed into picture frames! — Yusuke exclaimed furiously.
-I do understand how furious you are, Fox, but please keep yourself calm. You can unleash your anger towards Madarame later. Besides, it's best for all of us if we all remain cool, as much as that really pisses us off.
-I understand. I wonder what will happen after we change his heart.
-I'm excited to see how the change of heart alters him. Now then, let's move! — Morgana said determinedly.
Going into the storage area, they fought against the Shadows over the place and won. Going down, they fought against one of the Shadows. During the battle, the Ame-no-Uzume Shadow managed to knock Ryuji down, and she grabbed him, taking him as her hostage.
-Skull! — Ann yelled.
-Leave this to me. — Ren said seriously.
-*chuckle* Your partner is so weak. Now, what to do…?
-Let him go! — Ann ordered furiously, preparing her whip to strike.
-Don't move, or I'll hurt him. Badly. — Ame-no-Uzume replied in a threatening way. Ren holds Ann by her shoulder.
-Okay, you win. What do you want? — Ren asked.
-Let's see… Won't you listen to my request? I require Wide-Eyes Drops.
"Dammit, we don't have that item. It's time to bargain. I need to choose my words carefully."
-We're so sorry—
-What do you mean!? You know we don't have that! Now give him back! — Ann demanded. Ame-no-Uzume chuckled.
-Is that your answer? Very well. Then I'll play a little rougher with your partner.
The Ame-no-Uzume gave a deadly attack, knocking out Ryuji.
-Skull! — Ann yelled as Ryuji was thrown in her direction. Ren promptly started to check Ryuji's vitals. — What did you do?!
-I gave him back, as you ordered.
Ame-no-Uzume laughed until something enlaced her neck, pulling her into the thieves' direction. To Morgana and Yusuke's shock, it was Ann who caught her and started to stare furiously at her.
-Let me go! — Ame-no-Uzume ordered.
-As your wish!
Then Ann with all her strength sent the Ame-no-Uzume Shadow and threw it at the Possessing Dog Ghost. Then she started to whip Ame-no-Uzume mercilessly, as she unleashed all her anger towards the Shadow.
-I will kill you! — Ann said between the whips.
-Panther!
-You'll regret what you have done!
-Mercy, please!
-Did you have any as you hurt him? Then I'll show the same mercy you showed to him. — Ann said, hurting the Shadow mercilessly.
-Panther! — Ren yelled, snapping Ann back to her senses. — He's still alive. He's just knocked out.
Ann rushed towards Ryuji and saw him breathing heavily due to his wounds.
-He's alive…!
-Panther, look out! — Morgana yelled.
Ann dodged Ame-no-Uzume's attack and whipped her once again, killing her.
-Mona, take care of Skull. We have to end this battle. Persona! Kusi Mitama! Garu!
With the Garu skill, Ren knocked the Possessing Dog Ghost down. Performing an All-Out Attack, they defeated the enemy. After that, Ann rushed towards Ryuji and used her Persona to recover his wounds.
-Are you alright? — Ann asked.
-I think so. Thanks, and sorry. — Ryuji said.
-Here. You can have it. — Ren said, giving a bottle of medicine to Ryuji.
-Skull, I'm so sorry… I… — Ann said.
-Nah, it's okay. — Ryuji said carelessly.
-Still, we need to be careful when we go into hostage situations. We can get severely hurt in the process. — Ren warned, then he checked the map. — Let's keep going.
Going into the lower area of the storage room, Ren went into another area after going into the ending of the maze and searched around the room, looking for a way out. However, we saw a suspicious room.
"Maybe…"
Ren used his Vision of Truth to search around and he saw a point he could use his grappling hook. After finding a spot, he threw his grappling hook and went up to an upper area, where there was a treasure chest. After taking the contents of the chest, Ren saw a button, which he promptly pressed. Going back down, Ren saw the path of that room now unblocked. Rushing towards there, his suspicions were confirmed.
-A Will Seed! — Ren exclaimed excitedly.
-A what? — Yusuke asked.
-It's something of Madarame's possession. We'll explain later. — Morgana said.
Taking the Will Seed, Yusuke took a look and felt a shiver through his spine.
-What is this… This sinister-looking object? It's so abhorrent… and yet also so compelling.
-I call them Will Seeds. Palaces always have a few of them tucked away somewhere. — Morgana explained.
-You could say it's a merging of thoughts. A fruit of this place. — Ren explained as he rushed towards the new area, exiting the gallery and reaching a new place. Ren noted the law of physics doesn't apply inside it, being constructed and went into many different ways. Ren checked the map and didn't find the place there.
-Odd… — Ren said.
-Shit! What the hell is up with this place!? — Ryuji exclaimed, irritated.
-There's so much gold…! It's hurting my eyes… — Ann said, covering her eyes with one of her hands.
-The distortion here is bad… It's barely holding up. Plus, it's not even on our map. — Morgana said.
-That's a complete maze. We'll need to go on our own by now. — Ren said.
-Yes. We must ascertain the truth through our eyes alone. — Yusuke said.
-Luckily I do have something up my sleeve. Focus… — Ren said and used the Vision of Truth, going further into the maze of paths and stairs.
During their journey, they fought against the small gray tengu-like Shadows once again. Managed to knock all of them down, the thieves surrounded them, taking them as their hostages.
-Wha— Calm down! I won't say a word to Lord Madarame. — Said one of them.
-I'll let you live, if you lend me your power, that is.
-If that's the case, let's talk. I want to know what type of person you are.
-What are you…? — Said another of them.
-Hey, do you want to die!? I'm gaining some time for us. — Replied the first tengu-like Shadow. — You… So this is how you treat a foe in distress? Even after you've utterly defeated them? But what if I ripped your body apart? What color blood would come pouring out?
Ren only smiled, remembering Morgana's advice:
"That's ironic—a Shadow with a sunny expression, heh. Let's match its mood."
"Time to give a good old act." Was Ren thought, then he answered with a smile:
-I'll bleed green.
The Shadow looked amused to him, who was grinning.
-Wow! You're the first person to tell me that… Gnaw off a finger and show me it's true.
Ren made a small cut on his finger and to everyone's surprise, the blood color was green.
"It's just a matter of cognition. I don't need my blood to be green, I just need to think it's green. And the Metaverse will do the rest." Ren thought with a smile.
-Wow! That's awesome! — The Shadow went thoughtful for a moment. — You know, I've been gravely misinformed. This was supposed to be an easy job, just threatening intruders. I would never have accepted this task if I knew it would involve this sort of suffering.
-That's a pity, you know… I know how that feels… — Ren said. "Although I don't regret being a lawyer."
-Somehow, your concern alone makes me feel better. — The Shadow confessed. — It appears you and I are similar… Hm? Wait! Now I remember something! I see… So it was my destiny to find myself within you!
-What's your name? — Ren asked.
-My new name is Koppa Tengu. I am a Persona who'll be with you. From now on, I'm on your side.
Koppa Tengu became Ren's mask and flew in his direction, with Ren promptly absolved it. The other Shadow ran away frightened.
-What was that!? — Yusuke asked. — Joker… He's… He's absorbed the Shadow.
-You meant Koppa Tengu? — Ren said, showing his new Persona. — I can wield multiple Personas, for that, I need to convince Shadows to become my Personas, that's part of my power.
-I see… So, Joker's special, huh?
-Yes. Although we don't understand all his power yet. — Morgana explained.
Back to the exploration, Ren noticed something off in one of the stairs. Before he could check, he saw Yusuke looking around.
-Fox…? — Ryuji and Ren called.
-I thought I'd seen everything there was to see of this distorted world. But to think it would conjure up such a bizarre place… — Yusuke said resentfully.
-So, which way are we supposed to go? I didn't see any other ways forward, did you? — Ann said, pointing at the dead end.
-Hey, what this? — Ryuji asked, picking up the peeling of the wall. — Joker, help me out there!
-You should know at a Palace, we need to look beyond, noticing the details of this place. Like this. — Ren said going to the wall and picking the edge of the peeling wall as well, aiding Ryuji. Both Ren and Ryuji pulled the peeling, revealing a gateway.
-Whoa! Part of the wall was peeling, so I pulled it off! That wasn't an actual wall!? — Ryuji exclaimed, surprised.
-I see. So it was camouflaged. We may have been forever trapped here for eternity had you not noticed that.
-Ohh! Nice work, Skull! You did it! — Morgana exclaimed happily.
-Great job! — Ren said, tapping Ryuji's shoulder.
-Uh, sure… You know I just got lucky, right? — Ryuji said.
-Even so, you have found our way toward his messy maze. Most likely there might be more walls like this one ahead. — Ren said.
-Joker's right. That said, let's keep an eye out. As he said, there might be more walls like this up ahead. — Morgana said.
Moving further, they warped to another part of the twisted labyrinth, that time Ren noticed that place was resembling some image illusions he saw on some portraits in his father's office.
-Whoa! Did we just warp!? — Ryuji asked surprised.
-It seems even the paths beyond these apertures are distorted in the same way as this room…
-That reminds me of some image illusions I saw in my father's office when I was younger. — Ren commented. — Let's keep going.
Going downstairs, they reached another part of the labyrinth, when two "Sayuri" were displayed in the middle of the path.
-Huh…? Why is this painting here? — Ann asked surprised.
-Those are not the real "Sayuri". Just cognition reflections of them. — Ren replied calmly.
-It as Joker said. They are just mere illusions. We're in a Palace, after all. Well, I guess the painting itself might be correct though. — Morgana said.
-You say "correct", but aren't they all counterfeit? — The femme fatale thief asked. — Although maybe the real one's here too…
-I wonder… Either way, the fact that this is here might mean it's connected to this space in some way.
-Hm… — Ren walked towards the right "Sayuri" and glanced at the left "Sayuri".
-This is the real one. — Ren said pointing at the right Sayuri.
-That is correct. It seems you have quite the eye for detail, Joker.
-That was quite obvious. The original Sayuri had crimson clothes. I remember the original details of that work.
-For real…? That's amazin'… — Ryuji commented, truly surprised.
-Her vibrant crimson clothes, her beautiful hair, the sublime balance between subject and background… This may be an illusion, but it is without any doubt a splitting image of the true "Sayuri". — Yusuke said.
"I wonder…"
The portrait of "Sayuri" becomes an orb of light, which floated on towards one of the gateways, surprising everyone.
-What the—It flew away.
-It seems we have found our way. Let's move.
Going into the direction the orb of light flew, they went into another part of the labyrinth, with other two "Sayuri" were displayed too.
-Oh, isn't this something new!? — Ann exclaimed happily.
-Seeing past the false image has opened a path to the truth. Hm, this golden place filled with counterfeit work is a prime example of the alchemy of Madarame's brain. — Yusuke said, analyzing the place. — And here, just as in reality, he entraps those who cannot see through his lying façade…
-You might be right… No wonder the distortion is so strong here. — Morgana said.
-He is. This maze is a reflection of the complexity of Madarame's façade, like a web. — Ren said.
-Hey, so… what does that mean? — Ryuji asked.
-I think it means finding the real "Sayuri" should break through the distortion and open a path. — Ann said,
-You are absolutely right, Panther. Identifying the original alongside the copies is the key to moving further. It's like unwinding a ball of yarn full of loose ends, you'll need to find the right direction to unwind it all…
Then Ren went silent, thoughtfully.
-Joker, are you alright? — Morgana asked.
-…Actually, there is something bothering me, but I don't know what it is… — Ren confessed, then he looked at both "Sayuri".
"Something off about the "Sayuri", but I can't tell why…"
-So do we just gotta check all of 'em? — Ryuji asked.
-We only need to find the real one, Skull. — Ren replied.
-Assuming we can differentiate it. — Ann said.
-So, what do you think of this paintin'? Is it real? — Ryuji asked.
-No, those two are fakes. I saw another two paintings on the other side. Let's move on.
Moving to the other side, Ren looked at the two other "Sayuri".
-That's the real one. — He said, pointing to the left "Sayuri".
-Yes, this is the true "Sayuri". It may be an illusion, but there can be no mistaking its allure. Nicely done, Joker.
The painting became an orb of light and flew towards the gateway on the right, opening a new path. Going further the new openly way Ren saw another "Sayuri" standing alone. On his left, he saw several "Sayuri" displayed. Ren sighed and looked one to one, only to find out all the paintings were fake.
-Argh! All of them are fake! — Ryuji exclaimed irritated, then he sighed heavily. — Eff… that sucks.
-I understand what you feel. That's truly annoying. — Ren said, slightly irritated.
-I dunno… Maybe it's supposed to be actually be here, but like… it's hidden, or something?
-Hidden… We're looking in the wrong direction. Let's search for fake walls. We might find something.
Searching around, Ren found a peel on one of the walls and promptly pulled it off, revealing a hidden room with a treasure chest and another "Sayuri".
-The real one is here. — Ren said.
-Indeed it is, that is the true "Sayuri". Excellent job, Joker. — Yusuke said.
-It was all old and good hard teamwork. — Ren said.
-All versions on display were fakes while the real one was hidden the whole time… — Ann said.
"Odd. The original one is hidden, like the one in the real world… But I don't know, there's something off about "Sayuri" I can't point out what it is…"
Like the last time the real painting became an orb of light, but this time the orb flew in an unknown direction.
-Huh? Where the shit did it fly off to!? — Ryuji questioned.
-We'll find out when he finds our way out here. — Ren said.
Going to the gateway on the right, the thieves went back to the previous room from the beginning.
-Arghhh, goddammit! What the hell goin' on here!? — Ryuji exclaimed furiously
-Calm down, Skull. If that sends us back here, it might be our way around here. — Ren said calmly.
-Joker's right. We have seen all of the false images, so something must have changed somewhere… — Yusuke said.
Ren looked around and he saw the gateway below had changed.
-I've found our way out here. Let's go.
-Just be careful, okay? The distortion is growing much stronger the deeper we go… — Morgana warned.
Rushing downstairs, they went into the gateway and reached a new area. Ren spotted a treasure chest and promptly opened it, finding a blank card.
-A… blank card? Hmm, it looks like the one we got from that Shadow. Well, I will keep it. — Ren said.
Seeing a large corridor, the thieves went in. There, they saw Madarame, guarding his Treasure, which was protected by a laser barrier and several Shadows.
-Just as I thought… Madarame! — Yusuke said with anger.
-Then is the treasure behind him? — Ann asked.
-It's highly probable, seeing so much security, but I'm not sure. — Ren said.
-Yeah, it's kinda hard to tell from here Let's get a closer look! — Morgana said.
Hiding behind the wall, Ren poked out part of his head, looking carefully using his Vision of Truth skill.
-I'm seeing several guards over the place… And the Treasure is heavily secured. — Ren said, turning back at the others.
-So there it is… — Morgana said.
-Doesn't look a bit hazy? — Ann asked.
-For the time being. — Morgana said.
-Remember, it's not materialized yet. We still need to send the calling card. — Ren said.
-Joker has a point. Once we send the card and make Madarame aware it'll be stolen, it'll materialize like "Yoohoo!". —
-I wonder what form it will take. — Yusuke said.
-Who knows? Bet it's something like a self-portrait. — Ryuji commented.
-It's possible… — Ren said thoughtfully.
-What's wrong, Joker? — Morgana asked.
-"Sayuri". — Was Ren's reply.
-"Sayuri"…? — Yusuke asked.
-Of all the things, why does Madarame have a fixation on "Sayuri"…? I'm sure something's off about this. — Ren said.
-I see… — Yusuke said, thoughtful as well.
-Fox? — Ann asked.
-The source of what distorted Madarame's reality this much… — Yusuke muttered bitterly.
-Hate to interrupt, but what now? Think it's safe to say we got our route set already? — Ryuji asked.
-At this point, I dared to say yes, if that was the case. See how much security this place has? How can we get past? — Ren asked.
-I do agree. We know where the Treasure is, but I'm not sure that we've necessarily secured the route… — Morgana said.
-Plus we have those infrared lasers. — Ren said.
-Dammit… — Ryuji exclaimed irritated.
-So we'll need to find a way to steal it too… This is tougher than it was with Kamoshida… — Ann commented tiredly.
-It seems things will be more difficult than we thought… — Yusuke commented bitterly. — So, what is the plan?
-Let's check around. I'm sure we can find a way to steal it. — Ren said.
Ren went to the right corridor, only to find the way was blocked. Going to the left corridor and finding a safe room. Then after resting for a while, he went back to the Main Hall of the Treasure Chamber and reached the control room of that place.
-Ohh, a control room! Think we can turn them lasers off? — Ryuji asked.
-That's why we will check it out. Crouch. — Ren ordered
Crouch towards the terminal, Ren noticed the terminal was unlocked.
-Sweet! We don't need a password for this one! Whaddya wanna do? — Ryuji asked.
-First, let's open the shutters. — Ren said, opening the shutters, unlocking a new path.
-All right!
-Now there are more places we can explore… — Morgana said.
-Now let's deactivate the lasers…
Ren tried to deactivate the lasers, but nothing had happened.
-Huh? Nothing happened… — Ryuji said.
-I thought I deactivated the lasers. Let's see… — Ren said.
Error! Only Lord Madarame can access this terminal due to the maximum-security protocol!
-Dammit! So only Madarame can deactivate the lasers, huh? — Ren said bitterly.
-The heck? There was no point in even comin' here then…! — Ryuji said irritated.
-Don't jump up on conclusions so quickly, Skull. There's something we can do.
-What can we do? It seems disabling the infrared lasers is not within the realm of possibility for us… — Yusuke said.
-No, but there's something else we can do. — Ren said, looking at one of the options.
Ren inputted a command that turned off the main source of energy of the main hall.
-Wh-What is the meaning of this!? — Madarame asked, surprised and frightened.
-I-I am not sure! It seems we have lost power… Don't worry, Lord Madarame, the backup generators should bring it up again in no time! — One of the security guards announced.
As the guard said, the energy came back a few seconds later.
-What a nasty surprise… Hm… Could this also be…? — Madarame muttered, then he shouted. — Hey, someone!
At the same time, Ren looked at the lasers disappointed.
-Tch, it came back on pretty damn fast. — Ryuji said.
-Yeah, only a few seconds, plus, the infrared lasers won't go off. Dammit… — Ren said.
-Yes. They remained active even during the power outage. — Yusuke noted;
-So, we'll only be able to turn the power off there for a few seconds. — Morgana said.
-This will be useful. — Ren said, exiting the terminal.
-Hey, aren't those guards that just ran out headed this way!? — Ann asked.
-One more reason for us to get out of here. Let's move. — Ren said.
Exiting the security, they met with the security guard who went towards the control room.
-Hm!? So, you're the one who tampered with the electricity! — The Shadow said, revealing his true form, becoming a trio of slim hungry wolf creature-like.
-Crap! We got company! — Ryuji said, drawing his mace and striking the enemy.
-Let's silence him, fast! — Morgana said, drawing his slingshot and shooting the enemy.
The thieves advanced towards the Shadows, striking them with all their strength. Ryuji managed to knock them down with the Zio skill and they finished them performing an All-Out Attack.
-Phew… That was a surprise…
-Indeed it was lucky we managed to silence him before he could alert Madarame. — Ren said.
-Yeah, but all we really managed to do was to open the shutters… — Ryuji noted.
-On top of that, we can only turn the lights off briefly, while the lasers remain unaffected. — Yusuke said.
-Well, that should be enough for now. We'll find a way. — Ren said calmly enough. — Let's see what is beyond the shutters. I'm sure it's important. Persona! Ame-no-Uzume! Media!
After recovery from their wounds, the thieves went to the right corridor and passed through the shutter. Now in the new area, Ren heard the sound of the air and he saw an air vent. Crawling through it, he went into the balcony. Using his Vision of Truth, Ren saw a catwalk and he used his grappling hook to access the upper area. Jumping from platform to platform, he reached the other side and saw another air vent. After reaching the other side he went into another room, which was an opening to another corridor. Going down, the thieves reached the main room, which was locked, something it was quickly solved by Ren, who pressed the button, unlocking the room. Ren checked the map when something called his attention. Taking a detour from their objective, they went to the end of the corridor, where a powerful Shadow was guarding the place.
-What the—They got Shadows here too!? — Ryuji exclaimed surprised.
-I can feel a Seed past this door… It might be a pain to get our hands on it though… — Morgana said seriously.
-As if we have a choice. — Ren said. — Now then, let's claim this Seed.
-Madarame… Your Will Seed is ours! — Yusuke exclaimed.
Heading to the Shadow, the thieves draw their weapons and point at the Shadow.
-H-How did you all—!
-It doesn't matter. Move it over. — Ren ordered.
-Know what? You're right. It doesn't even matter—now you've seen this place, you won't be leaving alive. — The Shadow said, revealing his true form, becoming a mechanical bronze god statue.
-Tch, you know what? You've been warned. — Ren said, drawing his knife and in his direction to attack.
-Hmph, this room will only be your end. We'll be passing through! — Yusuke said drawing his katana.
The battle was tough for the thieves. As much as they attacked the god statue, The Shadow won't budge and the Shadow attacked with his all, managing to hurt the thieves badly.
-Goemon! Sukukaja!
Calling his Persona, Yusuke raised Ren's accuracy temporarily as the black-haired thief aided the ronin thief by withstanding the attack Yusuke was going to receive.
-I'm not finished! Ame-no-Uzume! Garu!
Calling his Persona, Ren managed to knock the Shadow down. Performing an All-Out Attack they managed to give some good damage on the Shadow, but not enough to defeat him. The Shadow used a skill to hit all the thieves efficiently and attack Ryuji, which managed to dodge at the last second.
-Carmen! Dormina!
Using the Dormina skill, Ann managed to make the foe fall asleep and Yusuke took the opportunity to strike with the Bufu skill, knocking the Shadow down. The battle goes on as the Shadow tries to brainwash the thieves, managing to catch Yusuke in the process. Calling Ame-no-Uzume once again, Ren managed to cure the wounds of the team. Yusuke in a frenzy due to the brainwash attacked Ren, surprising the black-haired thief who had to withstand the attack.
-That's enough! Change! Come, Slime! Tarunda!
Calling another Persona, Ren managed to decrease the attack power of the Shadow. Yusuke tried to attack Ren, but Ryuji came and knocked him back to his senses with his mace handle.
-Are you alright? — Ryuji asked.
-I will be. — Was Yusuke's answer.
-Okay then! Captain Kidd! Zio!
Shocking the Shadow, Ryuji managed to knock down the Shadow, and the thieves performed an All-Out Attack, but that wasn't enough to defeat him.
-Goemon! Frei! Die!
Yusuke calling his Persona once again used the Frei skill imbued into the accessory he was using and he managed to knock down the Shadow again, opening a space to perform another All-Out Attack. The Shadow retaliated using the Mapsio skill, hurting to some extent the thieves.
-Slime! Garu!
Using the Garu skill, Ren managed to knock it down the Shadow, creating an opening to the thieves strike with all their strength once again. Ann put the mechanical god statue to sleep once again and Ryuji stunned him with the Zio skill. Ren took the opportunity to extend the Tarunda effect. The thieves attacked with their Personas the stunned Shadow, who took some time to recover.
-Flash Bomb!
Using the Flash Bomb skill, the Shadow managed to disorientate Ren and Yusuke, but that wasn't enough to stop their attacks. The Shadow desperately tried to brainwash the thieves, but that was inefficient since none of them was affected. Ren called slime one more time and using the Garu skill, he defeated the enemy.
-We did it! — Ryuji exclaimed happily, then he flinched in pain. — But man, that was tough!
-I do agree. That was a formidable foe. — Yusuke said.
-But at least we managed to win. Now let's take this Will Seed. But first…
Ren called Ame-no-Uzume and using the Media skill he cured the wounds of the team. Went into the Will Seed room, Ren retrieved the last seed and as happened before, the Will Seeds flew in the air and started to spin, merging into one single crystal.
-The "Crystal of Vanity". That's a proper name for seeds of someone so vain as him. — Ren said analyzing the new accessory. — Skull, you may use this.
-Okay. — Ryuji answered, handling the new accessory.
-Now then, let's resume our exploration.
Back to the exploration, the thieves found a new safe room and Ren checked the map one more time to see where they needed to proceed. After resting for some time, the thieves went back into action. Went to the balcony of the place, Ren saw a hook suspended on the ceiling and he used that to reach the balcony on the other side. Spotting a Shadow, Ren struck him as quickly as possible before he could notice him. The Shadow appeared and the thieves fought against them the best they could, managing to knock their enemies down and finished them with an All-Out Attack. After that, Ren took the treasure in the room and he proceeded with the others, going all their way on the corridor and defeating another Shadow on their way. Reaching another room, Ren checked if no one was there. When he verified no one was there, they went in.
-Huh? Is this some kind of security room too? — Ryuji asked.
-It seems like a control room for the entire museum. — Said Ren.
-It is most likely where all the mechanisms in the exhibition hall are controlled from, as Joker said. Given the number of hanging works, it would make sense to have a room dedicated to controlling them. — Yusuke said.
-The observation skills of an artist are out of this world… — Ann commented.
-This actually is common knowledge, and knowing all these servers are to control all the systems, it's logical to assume they have a dedicated room for that seeing not only for the whole hall but for the whole museum. — Ren said went into the terminal and started to check something on the map, then he looked around the room, looking for something. — Knowing that we might assume… Got it.
-What are you checking, Joker? — Morgana asked curiously, seeing him going to.
-Remember how we came here? — Ren asked.
-I dunno man? By crane with a hook…? From a wire? — Ryuji asked.
-Exactly. That wire is personally controlled here. — Ren said pointing to a winch and the controller lever.
-Do you think this moves the wires for all the hanging art? — Morgana asked.
-That moves the wire of this room. — Ren said.
-It looks like Fox's deduction was on point! Also yours, Joker! — Ann said.
-Fox should receive the credit for this. But to make sure our deductions are correct we need to check it out. There's a ladder here, let's see where that ladder leads.
Climbing the ladder, the thieves found another catwalk. Walking through the way, Ren spotted the wire and their way towards the Treasure.
-Hey, ain't this right above the Treasure? — Ryuji asked.
-Oh, look! There aren't any lasers above it! — Ann noted.
-Exactly as I thought. — Ren replied. — This is our way towards the Treasure.
-This is quite a large hole in their security… but what do we do? Jump down to retrieve it? — Yusuke asked.
-That wouldn't be necessary. Look up.
Everyone looked up and they saw the hook attached to a crane.
-Remember what I said earlier. That crane is personally controlled in that room, so all we need is… — Ren said
-To someone on the crane catch the Treasure down and another to control the winch. — Morgana completed the phrase excitedly.
-This is madness! Do you plan on descending on that hook? Would they not spot you the moment you were lowered down? — Yusuke asked.
-Normally, yes, except…
-Except if they could see us! Nice idea Joker! — Morgana exclaimed.
-Whaddya you guys mean? — Ryuji asked.
-All we need is to cause a little power outage. — Ren said.
-I see. We turn off the lights…
-And you know the rest.
-But wait, we don't know if that lever is the one that controls this crane. — Ann said.
-There's one way to confirm it. — Ren said.
Back to the control room, Ren pulled the lever and the crane went down as Ren and Yusuke deduced.
-Stop! Stooop! They'll notice if you keep that up! Get back up there! Go, go, go! — Ann exclaimed worriedly.
Ren pulled up the lever and the crane went back up, retreating to its original position.
-That answers our question. Now then here's the plan: When we're going to steal Madarame's heart, we'll be on two teams. One will be at the control room on the ground, another will be here at the main control room.
-Oh right! We were able to turn off the lights over the place in that other control room! — Ann exclaimed surprised. — So…
-We'll create a distraction, so a power outage will be perfect. — Ren said.
-Only for a few seconds though. There would not be enough time to make it all the way here. — Yusuke noted.
-That's why we'll have two teams. At the same time, when the lights are off, the second team will retrieve the Treasure here. We'll have only a few seconds, so when the lights go off, we'll need to retrieve the Treasure as soon as we can. The second team will have one here controlling the crane and the other will be at the hook, taking the Treasure. — Ren explained.
-Exactly! That's our Joker!
-But wait, who will be on the hook? — Ryuji asked.
-I'm glad you asked. Obviously, that would be me. — Morgana replied.
-Mona's our best choice here, due to his poise, skills, and his small stature. Plus, he can easily disguise himself in the dark more than us.
-Exactly! All of that makes me the best choice!
-But wait, you sure that's gonna work? Seems like they'd realize what's goin' on at some point. — Ryuji exclaimed seriously.
-Sometimes bold moves have the greatest payout. Unless someone has a better idea? — Morgana asked.
-I do agree with Mona, we have to risk it, and I do understand your concern, Skull. We'll check if we have the Treasure once we reach a safe place if that's good for you. Everyone agrees?
-Yes… — Ryuji said.
-Yes. — Ann, Yusuke and Morgana said.
-Well then, it's settled. That's our plan.
-Well said, Joker! You understand what being a phantom thief really means. All right, with that our infiltration route is secured!
-You gotta be kiddin' me… — Ryuji muttered.
-Don't worry, I'm sure everything will be well. — Ren assured.
"The real question is if they figure it out… How will things end? Ryuji has a valid point. Still, we need to do it, no matter what." Ren thought.
-Now then, it's time for you to do your legal stuff and for the calling card!
-We better discuss that later in the real world. Let's head back to the entrance.
The thieves went back to the Palace's entrance and they started to discuss the details of their infiltration when Ren noticed a sudden light. Turning in the light direction, he recognized Justine, waiting for him on the side of the Velvet Room door.
-You seem to be doing well, Inmate.
-Thank you, but I'm sure you didn't come just to compliment, right. — Ren said.
-Correct. — Justine opened the Velvet Room door. — We have an important matter to discuss regarding your rehabilitation. Please come in.
-Yes. — Ren said as he went into the Velvet Room.
—
Velvet Room. Between mind and matter.
Without the influence of the flow of time.
—
-There you are, Inmate! — Caroline said annoyed.
"How, she's really pissed off… Now why did Igor call me?" Ren thought. Almost like Justine was psychic reading his thoughts, she answered:
-Our master admires the progress of your rehabilitation and hence has given you use of a special ritual.
-A special ritual…? — Ren asked.
-It's the Electric Chair, used to sacrifice Personas and transmute them into high-level items. — Caroline explained.
"What the hell…!? How does that work!? And why all of it prison-based stuff?" Ren exclaimed mentally.
-Any further questions regarding this ritual can be directed towards your master himself. — Justine explained.
-He's apparently gonna consider making even more rituals if your rehabilitation goes as planned. Work hard for it, Inmate! — Caroline said.
-Okay. I'll give it a try. So, how does that work? — Ren asked.
-As I said before, the ritual lets you sacrifice Personas and transmute them into high-level items. You'll lose the Persona, but you'll get things like useful weapons and accessories! We'll record the transmutation result of each Persona in the Inmate/Defendant Registry. You'd better be grateful! Each time you make a sacrifice, you need to use a special material with the potential for transmutation. You probably have no idea what it is, so take this one and get clued in. You better show your gratitude for it! You should be able to find them in your own reality, too—not just the other one. Do your best to find them! — Caroline said, giving the item.
-Okay. Thank you. — Ren said, taking the weapon.
-You better be, Inmate!
Ren saw his choices then he looked at Arsène.
"Arsène?" Ren called.
Yes. — Arsène replied.
"I need to do something, and I do need you."
I do know.
"I'm sorry, once again…"
Don't worry, it'll be alright.
"If you say so. Don't worry, I'll call you back."
-I want to sacrifice Arsène.
-Are you certain this Persona is acceptable? — Igor asked.
-Yes. I'm sure of it.
Caroline and Justine took Arsène and they covered Arsène with a blue cloth. Putting the Persona in the Electric Chair, they sacrificed Arsène, who became a cane.
-Here is your Arsène's Cane. Use it well.
-I want to call Arsène back.
-Do you wish to summon this Persona? That will cost 2,400 yen.
-Yes, I'm sure of it.
Calling back Arsène, Ren fused a few Personas and called back a few other ones. After he was done he went back to the real world.
—
Metaverse. Madarame's Palace.
After School.
—
-Joker? Is something wrong? You appeared to be lost in thought. — Yusuke said, walking towards Ren.
Ren quickly glanced at the Velvet Room door.
-No. Nothing's wrong. — Was Ren's reply.
-Excellent—no problems all around. Shall we get going? — The ronin-themed thief asked.
-Yes. Everyone, we've secured our infiltration. Let's head back to discuss the details, alright?
-All right! We've done our job. Now we just need to send the calling card! — Morgana exclaimed happily.
-Well, I'm still kinda worried… But we gotta do this. — Ryuji said.
-I cannot even begin to fathom what Madarame's Treasure may be… — Yusuke said.
-Either way, we'll steal it for sure. Oh, and you all did great today! — Ann said. — We'll let you decide when we do it, Joker.
-Okay. I will do that on the day of the trial. — Ren said.
-Got it.
-Now let's go back home.
—
Real World. Yongen-Jaya District.
Café Leblanc.
Evening.
—
-You did great today. Are you tired?
-Of course, I am. — Ren said, changing his clothes. — I wonder what Madarame's Treasure will be.
Ren received a notification, and he saw a message from the thieves' chat group.
All we have to do now it's to press legal charges against Madarame and send the calling card. —Ann said.
All right, it's finally time! Now, all we gotta do is to decide when we're gonna do it. — Ryuji said.
I do prefer it as soon as possible. — Ren said.
Wait, shouldn't we talk to Yusuke about that first? —Ann said.
Uhhh, why? — Ryuji asked.
Because Madarame was his teacher. It's not our place to be deciding something like this. — Ann replied.
Oh yeah…
Let's talk to him. Excluding him from that it's unfair. — Was Ren's answer.
Yeah, this problem's bigger than just the three of us. — Ryuji said.
Anyway, how about we all meet up at the new hideout? — Ann suggested.
Yup, sounds good. — Ryuji said
Ok. Lemme know when you want to meet and I'll tell Yusuke.
Got it. — Ren said.
Ren finished changing himself and he noticed his plant needed some care.
-Time to give Chihiro some nutrients.
-Seriously, are you going to call the plant by that name? — Morgana teased.
-Don't start. — Ren retorted.
After taking care of Chihiro, Ren went downstairs with his books in his hands and went to study. After a few hours of studying, he went back to the attic and fell asleep.
—
May, 22. Sunday. Yongen-Jaya District.
Takemi Medical Clinic.
Daytime.
—
-No Mom, I'm alright. Yes. Yes. No Dad, I'm not in trouble… yet. Yes, I know. I know. Yes, I know. I know. No, I'm not. Yes. Okay then. Bye.
-It was your parents? — Morgana asked, seeing Ren ending the call, as he went towards the Takemi Medical Clinic.
-Yes, since they heard about Kamoshida's trial they worried about me as if they weren't worried about me before…
-What happened in the past that was so bad? — Morgana asked worriedly.
"Damn brat… I'll sue you."
-It doesn't matter now. — Ren replied bitterly.
-But…
-Morgana. If I say no, it's no. alright? — Ren said harshly.
-Sheesh, okay… There's no need to be so harsh.
-Sorry. It's just… — Ren sighed. — Well, let's go to Doctor Takemi's clinic.
Going into the clinic, Ren looked at Tae who was busy making her notes.
-Doctor Takemi. — He called.
-Yes. You came here because you saw my messages, right? — She asked.
-Exactly. I want to perform a clinical trial.
-I made some refinements to the medicine. Could I have you come in? — Tae said.
-Of course. "I feel I can become closer with Takemi thanks to my Persona Matador… I can feel my bond with Tae will grow stronger too…" — Ren thought. — So, let's go? — He said while coming in.
-Please go into the examination room. — Tae said. She came to the examination room and she wore some rubber gloves. — Well then, let's—
-Is Doctor Takemi here? I need her help. — Someone asked. — So this is the Takemi Medical Clinic of Internal Medicine? I'm glad it's still open.
-Who's—
-Sorry, but please help me. I have a child I need to have examined.
Tae sighed tiredly.
-It seems I have a patient with an emergency.
-Then you should check it, Doctor. May I accompany you?
-Yes, you can. But don't disturb me.
Ren nodded in agreement and both exited the room. Ren flinched in pain.
"Dammit, yesterday was tough. I wonder if I can get out of that well." He thought.
At the waiting lobby, a man with a little girl was there. The girl was coughing heavily, putting her hands on her chest in pain. Takemi analyzed the girl, then she asked:
-…So, why come here? Aren't you under the care of another hospital?
-I've heard the rumors about this place. I'd like for you to examine her. You see, my daughter was diagnosed with bronchitis, but the medicine she was given hasn't been working at all.
-Bronchitis, you say? What are the symptoms?
-She has a fever that won't go away and she's losing weight because she's not hungry…
-A young girl losing weight is definitely not good. — Tae stated, then she said: — You should go to a bigger hospital. I can't provide a thorough examination here.
-But we've been to a big hospital! A university hospital in East Shinjuku! But all of them tell us that it's persistent bronchitis! — The girl's father replied.
-…A university hospital in East Shinjuku? — Tae asked concerned.
-Yes. The doctor there performed exams like he's on an assembly line. I think he's famous or something…
-As I said, I can't provide a thorough examination here. I'm just a general practitioner out here in the sticks. As you can see, I don't even have any staff.
-B-But…
-If you're done here, I—
-W-Wait! I've heard there's a medicine that can only be acquired here! — The girl's father said, stepping further, surprising Tae.
-W-Wait!
-Please! I'll pay you! Please, at least just examine her! — The man begged, grabbing Tae by her shoulders, but Ren stepped further and he gently pushed the man back.
-Hey, give her some space. — Ren said.
-S-Sorry!
The little girl started to cough again and she looked at Tae with begging eyes.
-Doctor… My chest… really hurts…
Tae stood quiet and Ren crouched, staying at the girl's height, and patted her head.
-Don't worry, Doctor Takemi will help. — Ren said with an assuring smile.
-What!? — Tae exclaimed surprised. — No! Out of question!
Ren stood up and went between the girl's father and Tae.
-Excuse me, I need to talk with the Doctor.
Ren dragged Tae to a corner and looked at her.
-What are you—
-Please treat her. — Ren said.
-No, why I should—
-She needs your help. You need to treat her.
-But…
-Doctor!
Tae was startled by Ren's sudden change of behavior. His eyes became severe as he stared at her. He sighed tiredly and looked back at her with a softer glance.
-Look, I'm not asking much, just to treat her. — Ren said in a harsh tone.
-I said no. — She rebutted harshly too. — You don't know what I had to deal with to reach here.
-I know, but I can't just ignore that little girl in this state. Please, I'll do anything for you if you treat her. Just please, treat her.
Tae thought for a moment before looking at the girl and sighed in defeat.
-Fine…
Tae went in the girl's direction and stood on her knees, examining her with her stethoscope and other tools. During the examination, she asked the girl's father about the symptoms and treatments the girl had.
-Is your vision blurry? — Tae asked and the girl nodded her head in negative. — How about your throat, does it hurt? Hm. No signs of swelling…
Tae went quiet for a brief moment before turning at the girl's father.
-Are you sure you've told me everything about her symptoms and treatments you've tried so far?
-Yes, I'm sure!
Tae stood back on her feet and made a call.
-Hello, Uehara-san? Is Dr. Schweitzer there? There's something I'd like to ask him about a case that was in last month's medical journal.
Tae talked on the phone for a few minutes, and after the end of the call, she checked her clipboard.
-I see. Guess the ones in stock will have to do… You.
-Me!? — Ren asked, pointing to himself.
-What are you standing here? There's a shelf by the reception desk. Bring the contents of the second drawer into the examination room. I need your help to administer the medicine.
-What? Do you want my help…?
-Yeah, I need your help, so go to the reception right now and pick up what I have asked you. What are you waiting for? Get moving!
-Okay, do you need something else? — Ren said, going to the reception desk.
-Also, bring the beaker with the red label in the fridge, a towel, washbasin, and a measuring spoon. We'll need all of that to treat her.
Ren did as Tae ordered and bought all she asked for, placing the items on her desk. Tae took the contents and started to manipulate the medicine. Almost an hour later, with Ren's help, Tae managed to treat the little girl, who had stopped coughing.
-Th-Thank you so much! I didn't expect her to recover so quickly… — The girl's father said, now relieved to see his daughter better.
-It was a very unique strain of an infectious disease. It can't be detected by conventional exams. I only temporarily suppressed the symptoms. We'll make adjustments as her condition improves.
-Thank you! How much was your consultation?
-That'll be one million yen for today.
-What!? — Ren muttered startled.
-A-A million yen!? Th-That's outrageous! You're completely taking advantage of…
-Daddy… — The girl called.
Looking at his daughter and seeing she was better, he sighed and only nodded in agreement.
-I mean, all right… I agreed to pay. You don't… take credit cards… Do you? I'll withdraw some cash right now!
-Huh? Wait, you're actually going to pay? — Tae exclaimed, surprised. She stood quiet for a moment. — By the way, that famous doctor you mentioned earlier… Was it the Medical Chief of Staff Oyamada?
-Yes… are you familiar with him? — The father asked.
-…I knew it. — Tae muttered. — In that case, I'll make this free of charge.
-F-Free!? — The girl's father exclaimed surprised. — My… Thank you. Just thank you.
Tae giggled and Ren smiled at her.
-You do seem happy. — Ren commented.
-Why shouldn't I be? Doesn't it feel good? Treating his patient without permission.
"So Oyamada prohibited Tae from treating his patients…" Ren thought, feeling his anger boiling over, but seeing the goth doctor smiling, made him relax and smile.
-Yeah, it does feel good. — Ren said. — Thank you for listening to my request.
-I've only done that because you promised you'll do anything for me. But that was a plus.
Ren gulped and Tae chuckled.
-Are you afraid?
Ren smirked.
-Me? Afraid? Never.
-You better be ready, because thanks for your outburst earlier I'm going to perform a very special exam on you today.
Ren gave a crooked smile but nodded, seeing the little girl now better. The man looked at Ren, and then he looked at Tae.
-Doctor, I'm sorry but is he your… assistant? He seems awfully young…
-Yes, my assistant… guinea pig. He's about to put in a LOT of hard work today. Aren't you?
-That's fine, since I promised to do anything for you today. — Ren said, disconcerted, but he nodded in affirmation.
—
Several hours later.
—
-Are you awake? — Tae asked.
Ren opened his eyes and saw he was at the Takemi Medical Clinic. After recovering his senses, he remembered what happened before he was knocked out cold.
"She wasn't kidding when she said she was going to put a lot of hard work on me." Ren thought, feeling his body slightly sluggish. "Man, what did she put into the medicine THIS TIME…?"
-I admit that was rough. You really don't hold yourself back. — Ren replied acidly.
-I think you've learned your lesson. That'll teach you to not be so nosy. Especially onto other people's matters.
-I guess I should've learned that a long time ago… My mentors always tell that to me, I'm too nosy.
-Well, that means you hardly learned your lesson. — Tae sighed. — I can't believe you forced me to treat that little girl.
-I hardly had forced you. All I did was bargain with you, and you accepted it.
-Yeah, and thanks to that I lost an hour treating that girl. An hour of my time I will never get back.
-Isn't that your job? You made a promise under oath to help every single person. To save lives no matter what the circumstances. — Ren said, raising an eyebrow.
Tae averted her gaze and sighed.
-That was a long time ago when I could help people. Back when I was a different person.
-You could?
-Remember Oyamada? — Tae asked and Ren nodded his head in affirmation. — I simply couldn't treat any patients because of his threats. How do you think I can live?
-Selling your medicine at astounding prices… Giving crappy examinations… — Ren sighed. — Don't tell me you spread your own rumors…
-As if I want that type of attention in the first place. Guess who spread those rumors.
-Oyamada himself. That's the only logical explanation. But why? I mean, if we wanted to get rid of you, with his influence and power he could have only asked for your conviction.
-It's not that simple. There's no proof I caused that incident, so he can't simply take my degree. All he can do is force me to resign.
Ren became silent as he looked at Tae. Then he said:
-Do you want me to sue him?
-What? — Tae asked surprised.
-I can take legal action against him for harassment.
-No, there's no need… At least for now.
Ren went quiet again, glancing between Tae and the computer screen.
-Okay, if that's what you want.
-Honestly, I'm surprised you still did the clinical trial, after all, I had a good reason to refuse the girl's father's request. What would you have done if I kept my world?
-It seems when you tried to help someone, that backfired at you, huh… — Ren muttered, but Tae managed to hear him, and at this moment she realized how they are alike somehow.
-You could say that… — She said.
-Still, I can sympathize with you. You want to be alone, as the "Plague". Like I wanted to be alone before I came back to business…
-You're dodging the question. You didn't say what would have done if I refused.
Ren sighed and stared at her with a darkened expression, something that gave Tae chills on her spine. Like changing from water to wine, Ren's posture also changed, becoming rigid and cold, as he adjusted on the bed, becoming fully erect.
-Honestly, I'd take her to every hospital that can attend to her and treat her. Then after that, I'd do the clinical trial as always. As for my perception of you, probably I will think less of you and that was something I couldn't do about it, but that was something personal on my part.
Tae gave a wry smirk. She knew Ren was like her and at that moment she could more than sympathize with him. She leaned forward and stared at his eyes.
-Now you're going to say I did the right thing helping that girl and not charge her father for it?
-If I say yes, what will you say? — Was his reply.
-Now I know you're merely a fool. An idiot who comes to my clinic to offer himself to him. I wonder what you do in your free time.
Ren laughed.
-Guilty as charged. Well, I do have free time, so you could say I'm only doing that to kill time.
-Well I should have your head examined. I can see your stupidness and your stubbornness is far from normal. — She replied.
-Now you're going to say you'll change my medication?
-Why not? At this rate, I should slip some knockout pills or some cyanide. You've been asking for it.
Ren laughed again.
-As I expect from you, Doctor Takemi.
-You know there's a chance I'm not joking, right?
-I know, and you know what? I don't care.
Tae giggled.
-Be careful, my guinea pig, maybe I'll slip some extra medication next time.
-I'll be waiting for it, just make sure to hide your traces, because you know, my mentors are here, and they will not see my death so lightly as you think.
That comment caught Tae's attention.
-Do your mentors know what you are doing here? Or anyone?
-I haven't told them, and I'm not planning to do so. Neither my guardian knows. Remember, I promised to keep it quiet.
-I see. — Tae checked the hours and then looked at Ren. — Well, it seems our time's over. I'll take some time analyzing the results until then wait for my call. Take care on your way back home.
-I will. I will see you later, Doctor Takemi.
Ren left the clinic and Tae looked at him merging into the crowd in the streets.
-I wonder what he's up to… — She said seeing Ren disappear. He went back to Leblanc and once he arrived, he received a call from Tae.
-Hello.
-Hello, Doctor.
-How are you feeling now?
-A little better. Man, today was rough.
-Maybe it was just what my careless guinea pig deserved, huh?
-You are still upset that I had made you consult that girl without your permission.
-So you admit you forced me. I hope that will teach you your lesson.
-I guess you should punish me more. I love when you do that.
Ren heard a sigh from the other side of the call.
-Good God. Well, none of my medicine can cure THAT.
Ren laughed.
-Just kidding.
-Have I told you that you have a twisted sense of humor? — Tae said giggling, realizing the joke.
-Yes, I do believe you have, but I could say the same about you, Doctor Takemi.
-Guilty as charged.
-But I'll reflect on my mistakes, okay? I know I shouldn't have pressed you for doing that.
-Good boy. But I'm only letting this go today. Don't pull anything like that again.
-I'll try, but no promises. I might pull something like that again. — Ren warned.
-If you do something like that again, I'll beat you as you're nothing.
Ren chuckled.
-Fair enough.
-Thanks, though. With your cooperation as a guinea pig, the drug does seem to be more stable compared to the early stages.
-I'm glad to hear I am useful.
-You truly are. Guinea pigs like you are rare to find, especially one so willing to cooperate like you. Because of you, it feels like I'm almost there, so… try not to die just yet, okay?
-That's something I can promise. I'm not going to die, that I promise to you.
-All right. Take care.
-Take care as well, Doctor.
—
Shibuya District. Beef Bowl Shop.
Evening.
—
After a tough shift at the Beef Bowl Shop, Ren was ready to end his shift and call it a day, when I client called him
-…You appeared to have a difficult time there.
-Yes I did. — Ren replied, looking at him. He noticed he was the politician from the other day.
"Is he a regular here?" Ren wondered.
-Can't you ask your manager to hire some more people? You were extremely busy today.
-I'll try. — Was Ren's reply.
-Employees being overworked is becoming a real problem in the workplace. That's concerning… I should remember this. — The politician said worriedly. — I'll leave my payment here. Thank you for the food.
-Thank you for your patronage.
The politician left and Morgana looked at Ren, who nodded in confirmation. Ren went back to the kitchen and he talked with Morgana about it.
-He was worried about employees in the workspace, huh? Well, I think he knows who you are now. We should go to the station square again sometime soon.
-I do agree. I need to improve my speech.
-To deal with Shadows?
-That too. I need to improve my speech for the trials. — Ren said and Morgana sighed.
-Don't you think you're too dedicated to your main work?
-Why not? I need to improve for my next trial.
-I see… So, do you think a better speech can help you in future trials?
-I'm sure of it.
After the end of the shift, Ren went back home. Once he arrived he received a message from Phoenix.
Ren, all the files are ready. I'll send them to you tomorrow before you go to school.
Okay, I'll be waiting. Chief Nick, can you do me a favor?
Yes. What is it?
I need…
Ren sent the message. After a minute, he received a message.
Okay, I'll see what I can do.
Thank you.
After that Ren called it a day and went to sleep.
—
May, 23. Monday.
Shibuya Station. Hideout (Accessway)
After School
—
-We can take him down, yes?
-All the files are here; you only need to sign them.
-And after the trial, Madarame's going to be a changed man. There won't be any way to revert it though. — Morgana warned.
-Neither to stop the lawsuit, once I send it, we will be going until the bitter end. Are you sure you'll be okay with that? — Ren asked.
-I have thought it over carefully, and I cannot think of a future in which he does not pay his dues. He has preyed not only on the art world but on countless talents… so, I humbly request your help.
-All right. Please sign here.
Ren gave the files and Yusuke signed them.
-I apologize for making you do this…
-Don't be, it's all right. — Ren said.
-Yeah. We just didn't want to impose if you weren't feeling up to it, Yusuke. — Ann said.
-Yeah. It's your choice in the end if you don't want to, then we're not going to. — Ren said.
-Okay. If I recall correctly, our next step is sending a "calling card", correct? — Yusuke asked and Ren nodded in affirmation. — What a suave maneuver.
-It's not about acting cool. The calling card is a way to trigger a change in his cognition. — Morgana explained.
-A change in cognition… That reminds me, you went through some problems regarding that before…
-You meant when we forced our way through the security gate in the courtyard. — Ren said.
-The Palace is a cognitive world, so changing its ruler's cognition changes the topography… I think! — Ann said.
-It does. — Ren said.
-Very nicely put, Lady Ann! You are absolutely correct. This will be a vital tactic from here forward.
-Actually, may I ask a truly basic question? You continue to mention cognition quite readily… But why does this world formed from materialized cognitions even exist, to begin with? Don't tell me… Has it always existed, while we go about our daily lives completely oblivious?
-Honestly, I'm not sure. — Morgana admitted. — At the very least, I know it existed before the Kamoshida incident, but that's all.
-That's a possibility. — Ren said, analyzing the newest information. — I mean, it may always exist, but I do believe it wasn't tangible, nor reachable.
-What do you mean? — Yusuke asked.
-Cognition is the way a person perceives the world itself, so that means such a world is limited to the human's mind. However, for the cognition of a person to become tangible is another story, especially like we've been seeing now. That isn't supposed to exist as we've seen. Especially the Mementos.
-So are you saying the Metaverse shouldn't exist? — Morgana asked.
-Maybe, but it always existed, but not as the way we see and know. — Ren answered. — But that's pure speculation. Don't take everything I said too seriously.
-I see… — Yusuke said.
-Crap, he totally caught me off guard with that… It's kinda weird thinkin' there might be whole worlds we just don't know a damn thing about… — Ryuji said. — I'm surprised that it crossed your mind, Ren.
-Yeah, it was almost like… you know a lot about it. — Ann said.
-As I said, it's mere speculation. We shouldn't be anxious about it. — Ren replied calmly. "And I don't need you all to freak out right now" He completed mentally.
-Ren's right. There's no point in getting anxious about it. You don't even know everything about the city you live in, after all. All that's important now is that we know how to make use of that world and how to transverse it. — Morgana said. — So, will you send the files, right? So that means we can send the calling card, right?
-Well, we better prepare the calling card beforehand. We need to get that ready for the day of the trial. Until then, I'll send the files and Madarame will receive the lawsuit on the next day. Considering we'll have a day investigating, the trial will be on the next day.
-A calling card, hm? Will he take it seriously? He is famous after all… He has often received slanderous letters till now, as well.
-Oh trust us, he will. — Ren assured. — We just need to point out what he did.
-Yeah! He'll know best whether the crime written on it is for real or now. — Ryuji said, showing his phone.
-Wait, are you going to write it again, Ryuji? — Morgana asked. — The last one…
-And only one. — Ren noted.
-…Was questionable at best…
-Yeah, I need to admit that it sounded too personal and childish… — Ren said, scratching his head. — Maybe Yusuke should do it.
-Yeah! You should do it then, Yusuke! Oh! Make it really artistic and stuff! — Ann said.
-No. It'll end with him figuring it out. He knows my drawing and writing styles too well.
-Dammit, that's right… Hm… Ryuji.
-Yes.
-I liked that symbol you made for us.
-That horrible thing!? — Morgana asked.
-Hey, it ain't that bad! — Ryuji exclaimed back.
-It reminds me of Lupin Third, and I like the idea. Can you think of something similar to that symbol?
-Yeah I can. Oh I see… I'll do it and then Yusuke'll make it cooler, right?
-Exactly. I doubt Madarame will figure it out. — Ren said.
-Mkay, I'll think it up, and you make it cooler!
-Designing a calling card, hm… Interesting. It shall become proof the Phantom Thieves do exist.
-Oh, Yusuke.
-Yes?
Ren leaned closer and whispered a few things to the young artist.
-I see. Okay, I'll do something about it. By the way, here are my sketches. — Yusuke said, giving Ren a sketch book.
-Thank you.
-Hey, what did you say to him? — Morgana asked.
-Nothing. Nothing important for now.
-All right, it's decided then! — Ryuji exclaimed.
-Great! All that's left is to win the trial and make the treasure ours! You guys better come fully prepared!
-We will be. — Ren said. — I'll send the files now. Wish me luck.
—
Kasumigaseki District. Public Prosecutor's Office.
Miles Edgeworth's Office.
After School.
—
-You may come in. — Miles said after hearing the knock on the door.
-Chief Miles. — Ren said as he went into the office and sat in front of his mentor.
-Ren. You are here to give me the files of the lawsuit, correct.
-Yes. Here, all the files are signed.
-I see. Well, I will submit these as soon as I can. Madarame will receive it tomorrow without fault.
-Thank you. By the way, how's the case?
Miles sighed.
-Nothing, as always.
Ren averted his gaze, looking at the floor.
-I see. Well, I wish I could have found anything to help with your case.
-It's okay. I don't expect you have found anything. As you may know…
-Yeah, I know. I know. — Ren sighed. — Well then, I should go. I need to prepare myself for what will come tomorrow. I know Madarame is not going to accept that easily.
-I'm sure he'll not. You better be prepared for anything.
-I know. I want permission to investigate his atelier.
-I'm going to request a warrant for you. Also, I'm going to ask the detective in charge of the investigation to aid you.
-Thank you. I'm sure he'll press charges right away, and that's what I want to happen.
-You're full of yourself to expect such a thing.
-I need to be optimistic. I'm expecting the worst as usual.
-You'll never change, do you? — Miles said. — Well then, I'm sending the lawsuit right away.
-Thank you, Chief Miles. I'm going now. Take care.
-Take care.
—
May, 24. Tuesday.
Aoyama-Itchome District. Shujin Academy.
Class 2-D.
Morning.
—
-Okay, let's begin homeroom. First I have an announcement about an upcoming school event. As part of a city beautification project, the entire school will be participating in a public cleanup campaign, which means we're going to Inokashira Park to pick up trash.
Everyone started to chatter about it, complaining nervously about the campaign they were going to participate in.
-Settle down. — Kawakami ordered and everyone immediately obeyed her. — The cleanup will take place next week, on the 30th. All the students are to wear their gym uniforms during the event, so don't forget to dress the part.
Ren and Ann received a notification from the thieves' chat group.
You guys hear about the cleanup bullshit at Inokashira Park? — Ryuji asked.
Yes, we do. Guess that was the way Kobayakawa found to help clean up the school reputation. — Ren replied.
Yeah. That might be his idea. All damage control after Kamoshida scandaled up the school's rep. — Ryuji said.
Pretty sure "scandal" is not a verb. — Ann said.
Nope. — Ren replied.
But I get what you mean. Even the counseling stuff seems like a desperate move. — Ann commented.
Yeah, they're totally scrambling. Honestly, Kobayakawa must really be desperate to drag Kamoshida's scandal under the rug, to the point of even hiring an outsider. — Ren texted.
Yeah. I can see that. — Ryuji said.
But as far I can see, Maruki's a nice person. I doubt he's in collusion with Kobayakawa.
Doubt that. — Ryuji replied. — I mean he's kinda too attractive for me? I meant, he…
You actually mean he's too charismatic. — Ren said.
Yeah, that. He's too charismatic. All the girls in our class have been freaking out over this new guy, too. I've been hearing Maruki's "hot", "kind", "sensitive". Basically, everyone thinks he's their type. Kinda annoying. — Ryuji said.
Whoa. I guess he's pretty popular, then. — Ann said. — Oh, yeah, have you guys gone to his counseling yet? — She asked.
Oh shit! I forgot! But I dunno… I don't really feel like going. — Ryuji replied. — You know what I mean, right, Ren?
I can sympathize with you, but I've gone to his counseling, and I need to admit he's a good counselor. — Ren said.
Whoa, really? — Ryuji asked.
You should just go already. Well, you can't today, but… soon. — Ann suggested, then she said. — If your slacking draws attention to us, we're the ones who'll have to pay for it.
Ann's right. The last thing we need to do is to explain why you're neglecting your counsel sessions. The smallest of things can become a huge snowball. — Ren said.
Fiiiine… — Ryuji replied.
—
Shibuya Station. Madarame's Exhibition.
After School.
—
-Pardon me, sir. There's an officer who wants to talk with you.
-An officer you say… Please excuse me for a moment.
Madarame walked away from the crowd of admirers who were chatting about the officer's sudden appearance and went towards the officer.
-Yes, officer? How can I help you? — Madarame asked.
-Please sign here. — The officer said, giving Madarame a file.
-What is this?
-That's a lawsuit filed against you. Please sign here to accept it.
-What is the meaning of this!? — Madarame yelled, calling the attention of the crowd.
-Sir, I ask you to calm down. — The officer said calmly.
-Sir, please calm down. — The exhibit staff said, noticing the crowd was approaching them.
-What is this lawsuit!? — Madarame exclaimed furiously.
-That's a lawsuit against you for plagiarism.
-Plagiarism!? Who filed such a lawsuit against me!?
-It was Yusuke Kitagawa.
-Yusuke…!
-Sir! Are you—
-You, call my lawyers. I want to take legal action against my pupil and his friends!
-But, sir! The exhibit —
-I do not care! That lawsuit itself is damaging enough for the exhibit. I need to get rid of it before that becomes public.
In a certain distance, between two stands, Yusuke was watching everything. He took his phone and promptly sent a message to Ann.
Phase 1 is complete. I will leave the rest to all of you.
Okay, I will tell Ren.
—
Yongen-Jaya District. Café Leblanc.
Evening.
—
-Hey, kid. You're okay? — Sojiro asked.
-Yes, I am. — Ren replied calmly. — Is my coffee ready? — Ren asked.
-Yes it is. — Sojiro said, putting a cup of coffee on the bench. — Is coffee only good for you?
-Yes.
Ren took a sip of his coffee and took a look at the files.
-You're waiting for someone?
-You can say that.
Then a police officer and a lawyer came into the coffee shop, showing a legal file.
-Your name is Ren Amamiya?
Ren calmly took another sip of his coffee and said:
-Yes, it's me, officer.
-Charges have been filed against you. The person who raised these allegations is Ichiryusai Madarame. I assume you know him. — The lawyer announced.
-The artist!? — Sojiro exclaimed surprised. — Tch. Didn't I tell you to behave yourself?
-Sojiro, please calm down. — Ren said with an innocent smile, then he looked at the officer. — I do know because of my prior criminal record, I should go with you, but unfortunately, officer, that's not the case.
-What do you mean?
Then Phoenix and Miles entered the shop and the lawyer and the officer looked at them.
-Is that your lawyers'? — The man asked.
-My mentors actually. I represent myself actually.
-Here are the files. — Phoenix and Miles said, giving the files.
-Thank you. Officer, if you please can you look at this? — Ren said.
The officer looked with suspicion at Ren and checked the files Ren gave to him, making questions to the teenager. When he finished, he looked at Ren, then at Phoenix and Miles.
-Is this true?
-Yes. If you have any doubts, you can check the evidence and check these files with my mentors.
-Are you sure of that?
-Yes.
-Can you confirm it?
-Madarame can confirm, and there are witnesses, including Mr. Kitagawa itself. That's my alibi.
-I see… So that legal action was a threat for you and your client, right?
-Correct.
-So, do we arrest him? — The officer asked.
-No. He has a habeas corpus. Besides, it seems like that's a threat coming from Mr. Madarame.
-So, that's a false charge?
-It seems like it.
-I can assure you it is. Madarame knew his pupil invited us to his place. Mr. Kitagawa even gave us invitations to his exhibition.
-Are you sure of that?
-As I said, you can confirm my alibi with Mr. Kitagawa. The tickets for the exhibit were directly given from him.
-I see. Well, sorry for disturbing you, Mr. Amamiya. Our deepest apologies for taking your time. — The lawyer said, giving back the files to Ren.
-There's no need to apologize. You two were only doing your work. — Ren said with a smile.
-Very well. Now if you excuse us.
The lawyer and the officer left, and Ren looked at Sojiro.
-See? No need to get irritated about it. — Ren said, drinking his coffee.
-What was all that about? — Sojiro asked.
-It seems Madarame is desperate because my client finally decided to denunciate him for plagiarism.
-Plagiarism!? You're saying…
-That's a long story, and we both don't have time for that, wouldn't you agree?
-Then resume it.
Ren blinked, then laughed.
-To make a long story short, Mr. Kitagawa came to me and decided to open a lawsuit against Madarame. It seems Madarame was plagiarizing him for years.
-My God. But why has he's only decided to do it now?
-Even I don't know what his reason is. Perhaps he was tired of being used for years. — Ren replied nonchalantly.
-I see… Well, I do believe that should end it.
-No, Sojiro. That's only the beginning. Only the beginning.
-So, what's the plan? — Phoenix asked.
-Tomorrow I'll go to Madarame's Atelier to investigate, so I need the aid of the police for that. Seeing how things are going, it's better to go sooner to avoid any loss of evidence. I need your help to investigate tomorrow. Can you two convince my teachers to give me the day off? — Ren asked.
-Of course, we can do that. — Phoenix said.
-It shouldn't be a problem for us. — Miles said.
-Thank you. It will be a headache for me to convince my teachers to skip class that day, imagine if I ask them to skip class to go to the trial. It'll be better if it was you two asking that.
-It's fine. We do understand your situation. — Miles said with his arms crossed.
-So, you need to skip school to investigate? — Sojiro asked. Ren nodded in affirmation. — Damn kid. You said you would behave yourself.
Ren sighed.
-I'm trying, okay? It wasn't like I'm not trying… — Ren replied.
-You were at his house. — Sojiro pointed.
-I was called by my friend to come with her to his house. She was invited by Madarame's pupil to pose as his muse when we're going to school. — Ren rebutted.
-The same friend you helped that day.
-Yes. She was harassed by Kamoshida.
-What!? That teacher you sent to jail!? — Sojiro exclaimed surprised.
-Yeah, small world, won't you agree? — Ren said humorously. — Well, I should go to bed early. Tomorrow I have an Atelier to investigate.
-You better be there early tomorrow. You don't know what it'll happen if Madarame disturbs the place. I already opened the trial for you. You have two days from now to get prepared for the trial. — Miles said.
-So, it'll be on May 26, Thursday. — Ren said.
-Yes. You have only one day to investigate the Atelier. — Phoenix said.
-Are you sure you can do this? — Sojiro asked, slightly worried.
-One day is more than enough for me. — Ren assured. — I'll be there at ten o'clock.
-You better be. You can't afford to be arrested.
-I know, Sojiro, I know.
-Ren, can I accompany you in the investigation? I want to see how your investigation skills are now. — Phoenix asked.
-I know that's just an excuse for you to accompany me. Okay, you can go. It wasn't like you're my boss or something…
-I really meant it. — Phoenix said, almost pouting. — Well, I'll be waiting for you at the Shibuya Station tomorrow. Then you'll show me where Madarame's Atelier is.
-Okay. Good night Chief Nick. I will see you tomorrow. Good night Chief Miles, Sojiro.
Ren went upstairs and Sojiro looked at Phoenix and Miles.
-You two give too much liberty to him. — Sojiro said with his arms crossed, with an annoying expression on his face.
-We could say the same of you. You even gave him the keys to this place. — Miles rebutted, annoyed as well.
-He told you about it?
-He trusts us enough to tell us a few things, not everything. — Phoenix replied nonchalantly. — Besides, it is quite obvious you gave him the keys to this place. We saw him working at Shibuya at night.
-I see… Well, I'll be going now. I need to close the shop, so you two need to leave.
-Okay. Oh, by the way, Sakura-san.
-Yes, Mr. Wright?
-We'll need to take Ren to aid in some cases of our own, do you allow us to take him with us? We need to continue his training.
-He is still in training? — Sojiro asked, impressed.
-Actually, he finished his training a few months ago, but he still needs some training. And we need to take him with us. So can we?
Sojiro sighed.
-Why not? I'm not in the position to determine that. — Sojiro replied.
-You are his guardian, of course, you are in the position to determine that. — Miles rebutted.
-As long he'd stay out of any problem, and he being fine, I don't mind him being with you two. Besides, it'll be better if someone keeps an eye on him, so I do believe you two can do that, right?
-Right, we'll keep an eye on him.
-Good. The last thing I need to do is to take him out of jail again. — Sojiro said as he smoked a cigarette. Phoenix raised an eyebrow.
-You know that filthy habit of yours is unhealthy, right? — The Turnabout Terror asked.
-I know that. I don't need to be scolded by someone younger than me. — Sojiro replied. — Let's go, it's gettin' late and I don't wanna anyone aside from the kid here.
-Fine. Thank you for your time Sakura-san. Let's go, Miles. We have a case to investigate. — Phoenix said exiting the shop.
-Thank you once again, Mr. Sakura. We'll be going now. — Miles said bowing at Sojiro and exiting the café shop as well. Sojiro looked at the attic and said:
-I'm leaving the shop, kiddo. I'll leave you to lock up the store. — He said exiting the shop.
—
May, 25. Wednesday.
Shibuya District. Shibuya Station.
Daytime.
—
-I'm here. Sorry for being late. — Ren said.
-It's fine, you're actually early. — Phoenix replied, then he asked: — So where is Madarame's Atelier?
-It's in Shibuya. Here is the address. — Ren said, giving a paper with the address to his mentor.
-It's quite far. So, he does have… that? — Phoenix asked and Ren nodded in affirmation. — I see. Then let's go. We have a place to investigate.
—
Madarame's Atelier.
Daytime.
—
Ren and Phoenix arrived at the Madarame's Atelier and Phoenix looked shocked at the place.
-That's a shack!? But someone famous as Madarame wouldn't have…?
-Yeah, that's the point.
-Are you sure that's the right place, Ren? — Phoenix asked.
-Yeah, I'm sure of it. That's Madarame's place. — Ren answered.
He saw his mentor scratch the back of his head and give a sheepish smile.
-It seems that the only thing holding the place together is super glue or something. — He commented sheepishly, scratching his neck back.
-As much as that place seems to fall apart, you can be sure it's well built. I was there after all.
-I see… Well then, let's see who is guarding the place.
Walking towards the place, they saw a giant man with a filthy coat guarding the place.
-Please, not him. Anyone but him. — Ren said.
-Hey, Pal! You can't get in! — Gumshoe yelled furiously.
-Gumshoe… — Ren said, trying to not sound annoyed.
-Hello, Gumshoe. It's been a long time. — Phoenix said.
-Hey, Pal! No time no see! — Gumshoe said happily. — I'm glad to see you with your attorney's badge back!
-Yeah, me too. So what are you doing here?
-I'm here to investigate and guard the place. And that means I can't allow you to get in. Sorry, pal.
-But Gumshoe, we need to investigate the place. Can you please allow us—
-NO, PAL! We're under the orders of Mr. Madarame to not investigate his shack… Oops, I said too much.
-So, Madarame will even disclose the investigation to win the trial, huh? — Ren said thoughtfully. — Gumshoe, why can't we investigate the place?
-Because you're under investigation, pal! And you have a criminal record no less, pal! — Gumshoe said exalted.
-Ren's the lead attorney of this case, and he does have permission to investigate this place. — Phoenix said calmly.
-Sorry, pal. I can't. Prosecutor Niijima was expressly ordered to prohibit the access of Mr. Mamamia.
-Amamiya. — Ren corrected, annoyed. — So Prosecutor Niijima prohibited me from accessing the crime scene too. Why?
-She said you had a lot of evidence, and all of them were way too convenient, pal, so she suspects you.
-Are you saying Prosecutor Niijima suspects me of forgery!? — Ren exclaimed irritated.
-Ren, please calm down. — Phoenix said calmly, trying to cool down his apprentice fury. — I thought you gathered all the evidence Detective with Ren.
-Yes, pal. I did, but she doubted all of them were really genuine articles. So she said you're prohibited to investigate.
-But…
-Sorry, pal, but her orders are absolute.
-Dammit…!
-Detective, can you allow me to investigate the Atelier?
-Sorry, pal, but she also prohibited you from entering.
-What? Why?
-She has prohibited anyone to enter inside, that also includes you, pal. Sorry pal, but you can't enter.
-Dammit! What can we do? — Ren asked.
-I don't know, maybe we… — Phoenix whispered.
Ren and Phoenix started to talk with each other, ignoring Gumshoe.
-What are you talking about pal… — The detective asked.
-Er…
-You're better not planning to get in there!
-Why are you saying that? — Ren asked, confused.
-I knew it! So you're plannin' to get in. — Gumshoe yelled angrily.
-Hey, what are you implying—
-Sorry for disturbing you guys, but what is happening here?
-S-Sir!? — Gumshoe exclaimed, surprised, seeing the person in front of him.
Ren saw a young man around his early 20s standing in front of them. Whoever he is, he noticed Phoenix had recognized him, so he knew he was someone his mentor knows. Also, it seems Gumshoe recognized him, because the detective stood still, saluting him.
-Sir! — Gumshoe said giving continence to the man in question.
-Gumshoe. There's no need to be so polite to me.
-But, sir! You're the Detective King, there's no way of me not giving you the proper respect, sir. — Gumshoe replied.
-Still, there's no need. Now then… — He turned to Ren and Phoenix and he took off his sunglasses. — What is happening here? I saw a commotion on your part and after seeing those two that made me wonder what is happening here.
-Sir. Those two are expressly prohibited to enter here to investigate. Ms. Niijima orders.
-Are those her orders huh? Can you show me the files of the case?
Looking more carefully, Ren noticed his messy bowl gray hair and his gray eyes, also his suit black optional suit without the blazer, and gray coat, that accentuate his outfit. Ren was trying to recognize the person in front of him, as the man was talking with Gumshoe and checking the files in his hands.
-Hmm… Well, detective, had you investigated the Atelier yet?
-No, sir! I do have expressive orders to not investigate this place.
-Then don't worry about it. Here are your new orders: You can stand here guarding the place and waiting for the forensic to arrive. Until then I'll be investigating the atelier.
-Yes, sir. But what about those two…?
-They're with me, so they can go in and investigate.
-But, sir… Ms. Niijima…
-I will deal with her later. If it's not your fault, if she didn't come to investigate the crime scene, isn't that right, Ren Amamiya?
Ren looked surprised at him, finally being able to recognize the person in front of him. Ren smiled at him and bowed in a sign of respect. The man bowed back.
-Well, I see my fame precedes me, as well you, isn't that right, Detective Yu Narukami?
Narukami chuckled in amusement as he extended Ren his business card.
-Yu Narukami. Member of the Yaso Investigation Team Division of SEES. Also, I'm the Chief Detective of the Tokyo Police Department for the time being. It's nice to finally meet you.
-Ren Amamiya, I'm a defense attorney at law, Phoenix Wright and Miles Edgeworth apprentice, but you already know that. It's finally nice to meet you too, the famous Detective King. — Ren said. — So, the famous Yu Narukami is investigating a simple case like that. I'm flattered.
Narukami laughed.
-I was wondering why I should be here too, but I remembered it's the famous Ichiryusai Madarame we are talking about, so I decided to take a look at it.
Ren laughed.
-So, you're the lawyer who dared to sue Madarame, huh? You're quite courageous, or perhaps you're just an incredible idiot for challenging him.
-You could say I am both of them. But he is far too much of an arrogant idiot too.
Narukami laughed.
-I can see you have met him personally.
-Or you could say I only need to hear everything from his pupil. — Ren replied nonchalantly.
-You can say that… — Narukami replied. — So, you came here to investigate, huh? Well, as long as you ask me to check the things it should be fine. Besides, I need some help to investigate here personally.
-Very well. — Ren said.
-Narukami. — Phoenix called.
-Wright. It's a surprise seeing you here. I thought you were investigating that other case.
-I decided to aid Ren in the investigation.
-I see…
-Sir! — Gumshoe called.
-Yes, Detective Gumshoe? — Narukami asked.
-The forensics has arrived.
-Very well. Let's get in. Make sure to wear gloves you two. — Narukami said, giving a pair of gloves to both Ren and Phoenix.
-Okay. — Both the attorneys said taking the gloves and wearing them.
Going inside the Atelier, Narukami, Phoenix, and Ren looked around as they went towards the studio. Once there, the forensic team started to check around it and Narukami looked around with Ren.
-Familiar with the place? — Narukami asked.
-I came here with my friends. My friend Ann was nervous to come here alone, so she called us.
-I see. Ann Takamaki, right? She was indicted for unlawful entry by Madarame.
-She was invited by Kitagawa-san to pose as her muse. I hardly call that an unlawful entry. As for us…
-Well, as long as he accepted you and your other friend here, it is not unlawful entry anymore.
-Although that doesn't matter to me, since I have a criminal record.
-True, except if you have proof saying otherwise. — Phoenix replied. — Besides proving it was unlawful entry it's hardly an easy task. As long as you're invited, or someone accepts your presence at his or her house, the unlawful entry no longer applies.
-True, but as I said before that's not my case. — Ren said.
-As long as you can prove otherwise in court. — Phoenix said.
-Yeah.
Searching around they found a few things off from his place.
-It seems someone was using this place. — Narukami noted.
-It was Kitagawa-san. — Ren explained.
-Most probable. I heard there's something here, but I do have my doubts.
-Actually, there's something of interest here. — Ren said.
-Oh, I see. Care to show me, Amamiya-san. — Narukami asked.
-That painting. — Ren pointed. — Kitagawa-san was making a painting of Ann.
-I see. I will send it to analysis if you think it's necessary. — Narukami said.
-I've already sent some sketches of Kitagawa-san to a specialist to analyze, but I do believe you should analyze as well.
-Very well. Hey, send this painting for analysis. — Narukami ordered.
-Yes, sir!
The forensic took the painting and sent it to analyze.
-I saw the recordings and there are a few things out of place. That's why I think…
-Madarame rearranged things. Why do you suspect him? I mean…
-I'm a detective under the orders of the police and the Public Prosecutor's Office. That may be true, but the truth is I'm independent of them, and once I have my suspicions you be sure I'll go all the lengths to find out the truth. — Narukami said.
-The truth, huh…? — Ren said. — So, where are we going now?
-Kitagawa-san room. According to Madarame he said he found the "Sayuri" in Kitagawa room.
-I see… Well, let's take a look there.
Going to Yusuke's room, the detective and the attorneys took a look at the room carefully, searching for evidence. Ren saw nothing other than several paintings and sketches.
-This might be from Yusuke.
-All of this is his artwork, huh? Well, I'll send that to forensics too, just in case. — Narukami took a look over the place and sighed. — Aside from that, I don't see anything relevant here.
-I can see that too. But it doesn't hurt to take a look here. — Ren said, taking a look inside it. Checking the drawers and his wardrobe. Inside the wardrobe, he saw a pellicular painting.
-It's the "Sayuri"! What is that doing here? — Ren asked confused.
-The "Sayuri", huh? I thought it was stolen. Perhaps it was here all the time.
-Do you think it was Yusuke, right? — Phoenix asked.
-Not at all. It's quite odd to find the Sayuri, I need to admit, but the thing is, why is that painting here in the first place? Unless he can find the answer for that, we have our suspicions towards Mr. Kitagawa. Plus, seeing your last case, we need to get suspicious about some evidence. — Narukami replied.
-I see. Can you send that to forensics for analysis? — Ren asked.
-Of course. I will see if that is the original or a copy.
-Thank you.
Ren takes another look before going back to the studio. Then he saw something that caught his attention.
-Isn't that…?
-A brush… — Narukami said, looking at it as well. — As far as I can see, that doesn't belong here, also, it seems too old.
-Do you think…? — Ren asked.
-Maybe. Hey, take a photo and catalog that, and search for fingerprints. It might have a clue or two. — Narukami ordered.
-Got it.
-What is that brush doing here in such a place like this? — Phoenix wondered.
-I don't know, but it looks too old. Almost like someone had it for years… Perhaps.
-Well I don't see much to investigate here. And as far I can see there's no signs of forceful entry. So, maybe it will be an easy case for you. — Phoenix said.
-I don't know. Prosecutor Niijima will not take this lightly. I bet she has something under her sleeve. — Ren said.
-That's true, she doesn't take things lightly. At least that. — Narukami commented.
-That's why we need to investigate this place, to look every corner of this place, searching for any nook, cranny and suspicious thing around it. — Ren said.
-That's the spirit. Now let's take another look at it, shall we? — Phoenix asked.
Looking carefully around, they searched for evidence around it. During their examination, they found another sketchbook from Yusuke, a few stained clothes, and an old art book.
-That's all we can find here, no matter how much we examine this place.
-I see. Thank you Detective Narukami. I do believe that's enough to at least do something. — Ren said.
-Don't thank me yet. We still have to search over the studio again. — Narukami said.
-Very well. I wonder where Ms. Niijima is…
-I remembered something when you're saying that. I heard some rumors about the SIU Division. — Narukami commented. — About how they were forging evidence, making some dubious proposals, all to get a guilty verdict.
-You better not defame Ms. Niijima! — Phoenix threatened.
Ren looked at his mentor, surprised to see such a reaction from him.
-I wasn't going to defame her, as you've thought, Wright. The SEES are keeping an eye on them and as far as we know, Prosecutor Niijima is out of suspicion.
-Really? — Ren asked surprised.
-Yes. Her files are clean as ever. Perhaps she doesn't know about it. — Narukami said.
-Most probable, although I do have my doubts.
-Ren! — Phoenix growled.
-Always expecting something, right? — Narukami said.
-You could say that, but it's only a matter of suspicion since I don't know too much about her personally. However…
-However…?
-I could sense some… emptiness from her. As she doesn't care about justice itself.
Narukami gazed at Ren and said:
-Sometimes people prefer to be blind because reality is too hard to face. There are even some people who say "Ignorance is bliss", but that is not true. Ignorance blinds you to the most important things in your life, so it's our job to find and face the truth, no matter what happens. Ignorance only traps you into a prison, a path of misdirection, ruin, and suffering. Living in ignorance is the recipe for suffering. — Narukami said, then he looked at the room one last time before exiting. — Come on, let's check back the studio once again.
Phoenix stood quiet.
-Chief Nick? — Ren called.
-You guys are right. But sometimes people only need something to remind themselves about what is most important.
-I'm sure you can make her remember what is most important. — Ren said. Phoenix's eyes widened with his apprentice comment, but he smiled back at the teenager.
-Ren… Okay, I will.
Back to the studio, Narukami walked around the room, looking for evidence.
-Hey, you.
-Yes, sir!
-Did you check all the material over there? — Narukami asked.
-Yes, sir! Some of them were used by Mr. Kitagawa, sir!
-Did you find something more? — The platinum-haired detective asked.
-No, sir. Only Mr. Kitagawa had used the materials of this place. His fingerprints are all over this place.
-Thank you.
The forensics walked away and Narukami looked around the room.
-It seems only Kitagawa uses this studio. — Narukami said.
-That's quite obvious, since he's Madarame's pupil, after all. — Ren commented. — Hey.
-Yes, sir?
-Sorry for bothering you, but did you find anything, relevant or not to this case?
-Nothing is out of place, sir. Nothing except some canvas standing here.
-It seems Kitagawa was working on some new work.
-He asked Ann to pose to him. But he wished for her to pose nude, so Ryuji and I had become quite the inconvenience to him. — Ren explained.
-W-What!? — Narukami asked surprised, then he closed his eyes. — I see… I guess some artists are quite eccentric, wouldn't you agree?
-My client is an eccentric person, in a way, but he's a good person at heart.
-I see. Hm, Nothing unusual here…
-I guess we looked at the entire studio. Hm. Hey, did you check the locks of this place? — Narukami asked another forensic staff.
-Yes, we did, sir! None of the locks were forced, so no one could enter. Also, there're no signs of forceful entry in this place. — The forensic replied.
-Thank you. I want the report and send a copy to Mr. Amamiya.
-Yes, sir!
Ren and Narukami exited the studio and went to the shack entrance.
-It seems there's nothing that relates you guys to unlawful entry or to defamation if considering asking Mr. Kitagawa about some shady rumors as a way to defame. — Narukami said.
-I have to agree if that point will be brought in first place in court. Still, I have to worry about it… — Ren said.
-I'm sure you can do it. After all, knowing who your mentors are, I'm sure that will be easy for you since you're their apprentice.
-Yeah, I know… — Ren said.
-Sir, we come with the result of the analysis of the place. — A member of the forensic team said.
-Please, report. — Narukami said.
-All the shack has been investigated. There's nothing more to investigate, nothing except for a room, sir.
-Then open it.
-I'm afraid you can't do that.
To Ren's surprise, it was Sae who said that.
-Prosecutor Niijima. — Ren and Phoenix said.
-Mr. Amamiya. Wright-san. I thought I was clear they couldn't investigate. — Sae said.
-I have given them permission. There is any problem with that? — Narukami said.
-Yes, I do have a problem with two specific persons investigating the crime scene.
-For your information, Narukami-san kept an eye on me all the time, and I do stand away from the forensics work if that at least lifts any suspicions towards me. — Ren said.
-I do believe that something I will determine. — Sae replied.
-Once again, I do believe I do have the right to examine the crime scene, as long as I don't disturb the scene itself.
-Odd, for a defense attorney, a not guilty verdict is all that matters.
-I'm not your average defense attorney. I'm only searching for the truth.
-The truth, huh… It seems you learned that from Mr. Wright. But I can assure you what happened in court last time will not repeat again tomorrow. — Sae said with a serious frown.
-What do you mean by that?
-Exactly what I meant. I'll find you guilty tomorrow, you and your client.
-Even if that means me and my client are innocent?
Sae averted her gaze and sighed.
-Hm. I never thought of the mighty Sae Niijima…
-You don't dare to judge me, Amamiya. You don't know who I am and what I've been through.
Ren stood quiet, surprised to see Sae's reaction. Then he saw Sae sighed again.
-Sorry. I shouldn't behave like that… Still, that doesn't change the fact your client will be found guilty tomorrow, and you as well.
-If I was you I wouldn't be sure about it. We can't predict the future. I can only hope things go smoothly in the trial tomorrow.
-That's what I wanted to do. Prepare yourself, because I'm not going to take it easy on you, like last time.
Ren smiled.
-That's what I'm expecting from you. Don't go easy on me just because I'm a rookie.
Sae smiled back and glanced at Narukami.
-As for you, I don't want your interference in this case.
-I can't promise you that. As I've told you, that case caught my attention. It's not every day you see a famous artist in such involvement. I do hope your case went well Ms. Niijima.
-If that's all you have to do here, then you may go.
Narukami shrugged and walked away.
-I'll testify tomorrow, whether you want it or not. — Narukami said before he went into his car and drove away.
-Honestly, he pisses me off! — Sae exclaimed annoyed, biting her thumbnail.
-Prosecutor Niijima? — Ren called.
She stopped to bite her nails and looked at Ren.
-What do you want? — She asked harshly.
-I just want to know if you are alright? You seem… tired. — Ren asked worriedly.
Sae blinked when she averted her gaze from him.
-There's no need to worry about me. I'm alright. — She replied with the same harsh tone.
-I see… Well, I think I have investigated everything I could. I wished you could at least accompany me on the investigation.
-I was busy with my other case. That's something more important for the time being. — Sae replied. Phoenix stared at Sae worried. Ren looked at both and said:
-I'll be going now, Chief Nick. My guardian will be worried about me.
-Okay. I see you tomorrow in court.
Ren left the place and Phoenix looked at Sae, who gazed back at him, before walking towards the shack.
-Sae. I mean, Prosecutor Niijima — Phoenix called.
-Yes…? — Sae asked turning back at the veteran defense attorney.
-Are you really alright? Ren's right, you seem tired.
-I am okay.
-I'm worried about you.
-I know that, but…
Sae stood quiet and looked away, avoiding looking at Phoenix.
-You don't need to worry about me. — She muttered.
Phoenix looked at her and silently nodded.
-I see… Sae, tomorrow at the trial.
-Yes?
-You're not alone. Don't forget about it.
She stood quietly and nodded her head.
-And, take care of yourself. I don't want you to get sick or something.
-I will.
-Honestly, I wish we could eat some ramen together. Just like the old times.
Sae smiled.
-Perhaps after the trial we could eat some ramen at Ogikubo. It has been ages since I ate there.
-I'll pay for some ramen for you. It was my time to pay something for you.
Sae gave a loud laugh and said:
-I'm flattered, Phoenix Wright is paying for me.
Phoenix laughed and said grinning:
-Well, it's one of my rules to pay for a drink for a beautiful lady, but dinner is also work.
-Well, I'll be waiting for you after the trial. So, at the weekend, perhaps?
-Okay. This weekend. Well, want to talk about the case?
-No. I do believe we should avoid any disclosure of information for the sake of an impartial trial.
Phoenix nodded his head in affirmation.
-I see. If that is if you want to. Well, I need to go. Trucy must be worried about me.
-Okay, say hello to her for me.
Phoenix left the shack and Sae saw her disappearing into the crowd. She gave a light smirk before sending her attention back to Gumshoe, who was scratching the back of his neck nervously.
-Detective. I do believe I gave expressive orders for not letting anyone investigate this place. — Sae said annoyed and furious.
-I did as you ordered, but Chief Narukami gave me strict new orders. — Gumshoe replied, feeling uneasy.
-And you should refuse to obey his orders, just as I have ordered.
-Well, he's my boss, so I just can't simply refuse them, sir.
Sae flicked her tongue annoyed, as she adjusted her hair.
-Don't expect that it won't affect you, detective, that will reflect on your salary review; Remember I'm watching all over your actions.
Gumshoe gulped, but nodded his head in defeat.
-Yes, sir.
-That said, let's investigate this place. I doubt we will find anything they haven't found already.
-Yes, sir! — Gumshoe looked around and said: — Sir? May I ask you something?
-Ask.
-I can see you and Mr. Wright are close. Are you perhaps acquaintances?
Sae smirked, as she adjusted her hair again.
-You can say that.
Gumshoe scratched his chin nervously.
-I don't know, sir… You too seem more than mere acquaintances…
-Did I ask your opinion, Detective? — Sae threatened.
Gumshoe jumped in fear.
-No, sir! I will shut my mouth!
Sae gave a sharp grin, then said:
-Detective, you better behave yourself, or else, you will suffer the consequences.
Gumshoe gulped.
-Y-Yes sir…
Then the young detective came to Sae and asked:
-Niijima-san, why are you investigating this place? I thought you were busy with THAT case.
-You shouldn't worry about me. I have my reasons to investigate this case, as well.
-Well, I should help you with that.
-There's no need for that. You should spend your time investigating something else. Perhaps you should investigate those accidents that happened recently since that's MY case.
-I will take a look. — The young detective said. Then he saw Gumshoe. — Oh, good luck Detective Gumshoe. You will need it to deal with Niijima-san.
-O-Okay, sir. — Gumshoe said, nodding at the young detective.
-Will you go already!? — Sae scolded.
-Sorry, Niijima-san, I will go now.
The young detective left the place and Sae snapped back at Gumshoe.
-As for you… Let's investigate this place.
-Yes, sir! — Gumshoe exclaimed.
Sae and Gumshoe went into the shack and started to investigate with the forensics team.
—
Shibuya Station.
After School.
—
-So Ren, what's the plan now? — Phoenix asked.
-Sending the calling card. That's the next step. — Ren replied.
-I hope you're ready because Sae is not going to play it easy this time.
-I know that and that is something I'm waiting for.
Phoenix smiled.
-That's the spirit! Well, what are you waiting for? Call them,
Ren's phone rang and he saw a message from Ryuji.
-Speaking of them… — Ren said as he saw the message.
Hey, Yusuke finished the calling card.
Well, let's send it tomorrow. Before the trial. — Ren replied.
Okay, let's send it tomorrow! — Ryuji texted excitedly.
Ren showed the message to Phoenix, who only nodded in affirmation.
-Well, it'll be tomorrow then.
-That's our only chance. We better be ready for it.
Both heard their phone's ringtones and noticed they received a message from the courthouse.
To the attorney responsible for the trial of Yusuke Kitagawa versus Ichiryusai Madarame the trial date is set to May 26, Thursday, Midday.
-It's time. I should go home and rest early. Tomorrow is going to be a full day.
-Okay.
—
May, 26. Thursday.
Shibuya District. Madarame's Exhibition.
Morning.
—
-Pardon me, sir. There's a matter we need to notify you about…
-Please excuse me for a moment…
Madarame walked away, going far enough from the public. Once he checked no one followed him, he said:
-What is it? It's about the trial.
-No, sir. It's another thing. We found this outside… — He said showing a black and red card. A stylish logo was stamped on one of the sides.
-A letter…?
-It's… Uh…
-Let me look at it.
-Sir! I…
Madarame took the card from the staff and he promptly started to read, with the staff member.
-"Sir Ichiryusai Madarame, a great sinner of vanity whose talent has been exhausted. You are an artist who uses his authority to shamelessly steal the ideas of his pupils. We have decided to make you confess all your crimes from your own mouth. We will take your distorted desires without fail. From: The Phantom Thieves of Hearts."
Madarame smashed and crumbled the card with his hands furiously.
-Sir!?
-Whose doing is this!?
-We don't know! The same letter has been posted everywhere… — The staff replied desperately as he tried to calm down Madarame.
-What about the security cameras? — Madarame asked.
-There were no signs of the culprit… All we saw is a cat in the recordings…
-Remove this at once! — Madarame ordered.
-Of course!
Madarame grumbled.
-First this lawsuit, now this! What will happen next?!
-Uh… Sir?
-What now!?
-It's about this affecting the exhibit… We believe it's just a prank, but what of the mass media?
-Are you insinuating that this slander is true? — Madarame asked furiously. — Do you think that's because of that lawsuit against me!?
-Of course not! But the media will think otherwise.
-I want a press conference today! During the trial! We need to pin down those slandering at once!
Yusuke, who was watching that from a certain distance, saw Madarame's reaction. Ren, who was watching as well, saw his surroundings disappear as Shadow Madarame looked around afraid.
-It's those brats' doing, isn't it? Well, it means nothing…! They'll only be able to do as they please until this exhibit is over… Especially if that pathetic trial today backfires at them. Then they'll become nothing but a mere nuisance; it will be wiped from my sight in no time!
Feeling the security level of Madarame's Palace rising, Ren saw Madarame grumbling irritated as Yusuke came back without calling his attention.
-Will that do? — Yusuke asked.
-It will! Excellent job by the way. — Ren said.
-Yep! It was perfect! The composition was way cooler too! — Ann said proudly.
-The Treasure should appear right about now. — Morgana said.
-But it doesn't hurt to give one more little push. — Ren said as he adjusted his tie.
Ryuji nodded as they exited the exhibition.
-You better enjoy the air of freedom while you still can, old man. — Ryuji said looking at Madarame, then he showed his phone. — Anyways, d'you check online? People are already talkin' about the callin' card. We'll show 'em … We're gonna surprise 'em all! — Ryuji said excitedly.
-Of course, we will.
-Now it's your time to shine! — Ryuji said excitedly, giving a gentle push on Ren's shoulder.
-I'm sure you know, but we only get one shot to pull this off! — Morgana warned, then he said: — I hope you guys are ready for this.
-I'm counting on you guys. Let's do this!
-It'll be fine. We managed last time too.
-You have no reservations about this either, right, Yusuke?
-Yes. Because I'm not going to back it down in court as well.
-Of course not… We'll do this.