Persona 5: The Phantom Files

by sithlorde1988

Will cover the events of Persona 5 Royal, with the sequel set to cover Strikers. What happens when in addition to Ren being sentenced to go live in the care of Sojiro Sakura for a year after being sued for assault, his younger brother is also ordered to go and oversee him? How will this extra character change things? Read to find out! More info in chapter 1! Read and review! Enjoy!

83. A Risky Plan! Velvet Truths part 1

A/N: sithlorde1988 here, with another chapter of Persona 5- The Phantom Files! Here we are at the start of Arc 8, which is probably going to be the shortest arc of the entire story, due in no small part to the fact that the majority of said arc's plot literally happens over the course of around two in-game days. But that doesn't mean it won't still get split up over multiple chapters, just that there will likely be less chapters in this arc than in others. If I had to make a prediction, I'd say probably minimum 5 chapters is the length of this arc. But we'll see what happens. Now, on with the disclaimer!

Disclaimer: sithlorde1988 does not own the Persona series in any way, shape, or form (excluding the OCs Kusa/Draconis, Somasi/Slim, Kyori, Lumine, Mimille, Akira, and any other OCs that might show up in the story, all of which are made by and therefore owned by sithlorde1988, unless otherwise stated), and the actual ownership credit for the Persona series belongs to Sega, Atlus, and to a point, Koei Tecmo. So all credit to them!

Having said that, I think we've waffled around on the A/N long enough, yeah? On with chapter 83, and the start of Arc 8!

Chapter 83: Back to School! Of Setbacks, Exams, and Plans! Velvet Truths part 1

(In the evening, at Leblanc, with Ren and Sojiro)

As Ren looked at his options, he frowned as he saw that he couldn't leave Leblanc to do stuff that evening. On a whim, Ren checked the fridge, smirking as he saw there were leftover curry ingredients in it. Out of not having much else to do, Ren decided he'd make some curry, figuring if nothing else he could save Sojiro some cooking by cooking a meal for him for a change. Ren then got out the leftover curry ingredients and started prepping his workspace, sticking his head out to speak to Sojiro.

"Hey, Boss? I don't know if you might already have plans or not, but if you don't, I figured I might make up some curry if you and Futaba want to have a plate or two each. After all, you cook for Futaba and I so often, it's hardly unfair that you let one of us return the favor and cook for you for once. So, how about it? Are you up for some food?" Ren asked Sojiro, who thought about it. After a bit, he smirked and spoke up.

"Eh, why not? I'm sure I can convince Futaba to come and have dinner with us. You make a good point that I cook for the two of you a lot, so it's only fair that you offer to cook for me every so often. As such, I graciously accept your kind offer, Ren." Sojiro said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Cool. I'll get started on it now. If you want, I can close up as well so you can head on home and start coaxing Futaba over here. I know she can be a handful when she wants to be." Ren said as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"Right, I think I will do that. And thank you for offering to close up. Make sure you don't forget to do so. And be sure that you're not only careful with the stove, but that you can also hear us when I knock on the door, so you can let us in for dinner." Sojiro said as he went home to start getting Futaba ready for dinner. Sojiro also happened to leave Morgana sitting on the counter as he left. After a bit, Ren smiled as the curry prep was going well for the most part. Morgana then spoke up after seeing Ren add a brown sauce to the curry.

"Hm? Hey, Ren? What was that brown sauce you added?" Morgana asked Ren, but before he could answer, he heard a knock at the door, setting his ladle down to go and answer it, smiling as Sojiro and Futaba walked in, the former looking at Ren as he spoke up.

"Adding the brown sauce this time, eh Ren? I'm sure Morgana has questions about it, so let me explain! That brown sauce is known as Worcestershire Sauce. This handy condiment adds acidity and richness to the curry. It's perfect for enhancing the flavor profile of a dish. That said, oyster sauce can be used the same way. These sauces add a mature, deep flavor, as if you simmered the curry overnight." Sojiro explained as Ren thanked Sojiro for the explanation as Morgana frowned at Ren and spoke up.

"Worcestershire sauce, huh? I can barely even pronounce it. That said, you always throw these curry meals together with such gusto. Could it be that the secret ingredient is, of all things, confidence?" Morgana asked as Ren shrugged, ignoring the amused giggle from Futaba at the not-cat's question to note that his Guts had gotten a slight, yet unneeded, boost from making curry. At that point, Morgana smirked as he kept speaking.

"Oh, nice! The curry's smelling good from here, so this'll definitely be a hit!" Morgana said as Futaba chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, I'm not surprised. Even if he's not on Sojiro's level quite yet, Ren's already quite the competent coffee brewer and curry maker, so of course his cooking is likely to be a hit. I think that runs in the family, though. As such, Kasumi and I lucked out landing the Amamiya brothers as our boyfriends. Mwehehe." Futaba said as Ren smirked and put the finished curry onto plates, taking one into a booth seat that he shared with Morgana, and setting the other two plates in front of Sojiro and Futaba, the latter of whom sat next to Ren while the former sat with Morgana, as the three dug into their meals. Eventually, Ren smiled as he spoke up.

"YES! Another successful attempt at curry making! I'm slowly improving my skills." Ren said happily as Morgana smirked and spoke up.

"Heh, you look awfully proud of yourself, Ren." Morgana said as Ren nodded while pocketing 2 'Master Curry' items as Futaba smirked and spoke up.

"Of course he does, Morgana. He's getting better at cooking, while spending time with probably the closest thing he has to a family in this town. So of course he's proud of himself. And I bet even Sojiro will agree Ren's come a long way from when he first moved here." Futaba said sagely as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"You're not wrong, Futaba. Sure, Ren's still a bit rough around the edges, but he's slowly smoothing those edges and coming into his own, both as a man, and as a coffee brewer/curry maker. Not to mention, he's become quite an accomplished leader since he's lived here. I'm proud of how far he's come, if I'm being honest." Sojiro said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Heh, thanks Boss. But, I know I still have a long way to go. After all, two of my teammates are missing in action right now, and one of those two might well be dead. So I'm aware I've had some failings as a leader. But I intend to learn from them and use them to better myself going forward." Ren said resolutely as Futaba and Morgana nodded approvingly, the latter smiling at Ren and speaking up.

"True. You are learning a lot. But anyways, as enlightening and enjoyable as this 'family dinner' of sorts is, it's starting to get late. Maybe it's time for the chief to take Futaba back home, so you can get laid down, since you have a big day tomorrow with your return to school." Morgana said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Perhaps, Morgana. But it's also up to them when they decide to go. This is as much their place as it is mine. So I'm not going to rush them. They can take their time eating." Ren lightly rebuked the not-cat as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"That's true, Ren. But I did notice it was getting late. So maybe I will take the rest of this to-go, and take Futaba back to the house with me so you can get to bed early. Oh, and since you're clear to go back to school, I'll leave Morgana with you for now. I'm sure you've missed having him around." Sojiro said as Ren just nodded. After a bit, Ren had done the dishes while Sojiro and Futaba had gone home. After that, Ren was sitting on his bed with Morgana, who looked at him and spoke up.

"Well, we did it. The case is finally closed. There are no shackles on you anymore. We changed the heart of someone huge, like the next prime minister. There's no better finale than that. Having said that, this may be the opportune time to end our deal. I'm sure you'll be fine now. You can manage without me being with you." Morgana said as Ren frowned at this and spoke up.

"What are you saying? While you're not wrong that I could handle myself, isn't that kind of cowardly to up and leave without saying anything to the others? And what do I tell Kusa when he returns and you're nowhere to be found? You do know that would probably crush him if he came back to you being gone, right?" Ren said to Morgana, who winced at Ren's response, not having considered that previously. Morgana sighed and spoke up.

"That's true. Don't worry, I won't leave immediately. But if I just stay here, I won't recall anything else about myself. Or at least, that's the impression I'm getting from my relative lack of progress in recovering my lost memories. To be honest, I'm a bit envious of you. Here I am, still stuck in this cat form, and I still haven't found anything about myself as of yet. If only I could find out what's in the depths of Mementos, maybe I could figure out more about myself." Morgana said as Ren spoke up.

"And who says we've given up on that? We might not have hearts to change anymore, but even so, that doesn't mean that we can't still continue to try and reach the depths of Mementos. After all, we agreed we'd help you get your memories back. And now that we don't have anything else to worry about for the most part on our end, that frees us up even more to help you with your problems, Morgana. So trust us, and we'll help you get your memories back." Ren said kindly while lightly patting the not-cat on the head comfortingly, making Morgana purr as he spoke up.

"Mmm, that's nice. But anyways, let's go to sleep. You must be tired." Morgana said as Ren shrugged and laid down, carefully lifting up the not-cat so he could get under the blankets and get covered up for the night, laying Morgana down so he could curl up on Ren's arm as Ren went to bed for the night...

(Meanwhile, in an unknown location with some unknown figures)

"Dammit! I can't believe even Shido-san had a change of heart triggered in him!" One of the three figures standing in a room together, all of whom were male, said as another figure spoke up.

"True. We got where we are today because we had him take care of whoever got in our way, no matter who they were. If a case is assembled against him, then everything about us will be exposed too, won't it? What are we supposed to do?" The second figure said as the third figure spoke up.

"We realize that! That's precisely why we've gathered to discuss our options! Prosecutor Niijima is serious about taking Shido-san to court, right!?" The third figure said as the second figure turned to the first figure and spoke up.

"That's true. You! Isn't she under your command!? You have to do something!" The second figure said to the first figure, who crossed his arms and spoke up.

"Yes, I'm aware of the situation. But even if we prevent her from doing so, what about the public? Shido-san's conduct was shameful, to say the very least." The first figure said as the third figure spoke up.

"We'll just have to continue his policies for a 'rich country', won't we?" The third figure said as the second figure blinked at this and spoke up.

"Um, a what? Did you say a rich country?" The second figure said as the first figure spoke up.

"You mean that plan of advancing foreign affairs by controlling people's hearts?" The first figure said as the third figure nodded and spoke up.

"Correct, that plan. And after all, the research on it should be proceeding along. We'll push that plan forward, and continue eliminating ANY who get in our way by using THAT world, despite not having the resources that Shido-san did. We'll pledge to build a powerful country. We ourselves will meet the expectations we had of Shido-san." The third figure said as the second figure nodded and spoke up.

"Oh, a powerful country, huh? I see." The second figure said as the first figure spoke up.

"But even if we do pick up where he left off, would his other associates keep quiet about it?" The first figure asked as the second figure spoke up.

"Um, we should be fine in that regard. Anyone who Shido-san aided would feel that their life is at stake after watching that conference, and thus not want to make that aid known. Just as we are now, due to our close ties to Shido-san. After all, he gave all of us the jobs we have now." The second figure said as the first figure nodded and spoke up.

"That's certainly true. But it doesn't matter. At any rate, it seems we must first stop that case from being assembled, no matter the cost." The first figure said as the second figure looked at the third figure and spoke up.

"How do we control public opinion?" The second figure asked as the third figure spoke up.

"Thankfully, support for Shido-san still exists. Masayoshi Shido was a hero who fell before achieving his goals, and we will carry his torch and pick up where he left off. Or at least, that's what we'll announce to the mass media." The third figure said as the second figure spoke up.

"Ah, I see. Considering the public's state of panic after losing their leader, they may latch onto that immediately if we're lucky." The second figure said as the third figure spoke up again.

"True. But if the general public becomes our enemy somehow, then we're done for." The third figure said as the first figure spoke up.

"That means, once we start on this path, there's no turning back. Well then, leave Niijima to my group, the SIU. Can we rely on yours in regards to Shido-san?" The first figure, or the proxy director of the SIU as he just revealed himself to be, said as the second figure nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed. We'll make it so that he requires a psychiatric evaluation." The second figure said as the third figure spoke up.

"Everyone, listen to me. We're in the same boat. You had best not forget that." The third figure said as the second figure and the Proxy SIU Director nodded and sealed their pact...

(The next morning, in the attic of Leblanc with Ren and Morgana)

As Ren sat up on his bed after getting up and getting dressed, Morgana looked at him and spoke up.

"So, you're going back to school today. How does it feel?" Morgana asked Ren, who spoke up.

"Honestly? It feels a bit surreal to actually be returning to school after spending the best part of the past fortnight being in hiding and pretending to be dead to the world. Also, it's going to be odd heading to school without Kusa. But I get the sense that he wouldn't want me to be late." Ren said. Morgana nodded approvingly and spoke up.

"You're right. And I'm sure Kusa's proud of you right now for being so responsible. Now, let's hurry and get ready to go!" Morgana said as Ren nodded and finished getting ready to go to school...

(On the train ride to school, with Ren and Morgana)

"You see Shido's press conference? Seemed like the Phantom Thieves changed his heart, if you ask me. I can't believe he turned out to be a criminal in the end." Ren heard a brown-haired youth near him say as a black-haired youth spoke up from next to the brown-haired youth.

"True, but also, didn't the leader of the Phantom Thieves commit suicide? That 'comeback' video posted online right before the election, do you think it's real?" The black-haired youth said as the brown-haired youth frowned and spoke up.

"I don't get it! I dunno what's going on anymore. Opinions are all over the place online. What does this mean for the election? This country's in trouble, especially since we have no prime minister." The brown-haired youth said as Morgana sighed and spoke up.

"Mm, well it did happen so suddenly, so we can't blame anyone for being confused." Morgana said as Ren nodded while the rest of the train ride proceeded uneventfully...

(Later that morning, in class with Ren, Ann, and Morgana)

"TIME'S UP! Okay, that's all for today. This will be my last class for the year. Heh, wow. The year's already ending, huh? So much has happened that it's like, 'where did all the time go?' Oh, but it's not over for you yet. You still have finals for three days, from tomorrow to the 22nd. I'm sure you already knew that though, right? There's no way you haven't started studying yet. They're coming, whether you like it or not. Well, good luck." Kawakami said as Morgana frowned and spoke up so only Ren could hear.

"Ugh, man! This is the first thing we get after coming to school for the first time in a while? Have you been studying?" Morgana asked Ren, who shrugged but didn't answer the question as the rest of class passed uneventfully...

(Later that afternoon, in another class with Ren, Ann, and Morgana)

As Ren and Ann sat in class, their phones went off to signify a group chat with Ryuji, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Futaba, and Kasumi, with Ryuji sending the first response.

"Shido spilled the beans at that conference, right? So why isn't it making any news?" Ryuji sent as Ann sent a response.

"Is it because he's a politician?" Ann sent as Makoto sent a response.

"I have no doubt that political connections are involved. But that theoretically shouldn't have an impact on the news as far as I know." Makoto sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"What about all the people who saw him on TV? They HAD to see that! Everyone should've heard him say all that heavy stuff, right?" Ryuji sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Right. What happened can't be kept secret. It'll be apparent soon." Makoto sent as Ann sent a response.

"True. After all, Makoto's sister is working on a case too! I'm sure we'll see the results of that if we just wait patiently." Ann sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Let's assume so. More importantly, we have exams coming up tomorrow." Makoto sent as Haru sent a response.

"I think they may have come at a good time. We've really gone through a lot lately. Everyone must be tired." Haru sent as Makoto sent a response.

"It certainly was a good deal of trouble, but even with the prices we paid to achieve it, we changed Shido's heart in the end. So, in that respect at least, we made Kusa and Akechi proud." Makoto sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Truth! We fulfilled Akechi's request that he asked of us, and also avenged Kusa! But, uh, exams are more tiring than any shit we've been doing lately, aren't they?" Ryuji sent as Futaba sent a response.

"Good luck, you guys! Granted, Yusuke has a different exam schedule, and I heard that Kasumi was exempted from the exams due to her holiday gymnastics meet? Or maybe she wasn't, and her coach is giving her the exams while they're on the road? I forget which she said it was?" Futaba sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"The latter, Futaba-chan. Coach told me she'd give me the exams after the meet, so I could work on them on the drive back to Yongen. The meet starts tomorrow, and we got to the site today. I'm both excited to see how I do, and nervous as well. But I'll do my best to make you all proud. Especially you, Ren. Love you!" Kasumi sent as Ren and Ann put their phones away and the rest of class went uneventfully...

(After school, in the lower level of Leblanc with Ren, Morgana, Sojiro, and Futaba)

As Ren turned to face Sojiro on hearing his name called, Sojiro spoke up.

"Um, sorry that I failed to mention your exams. In my defense though, I was kinda busy, dealing with some of Shido's cronies. Still, you seem to be handling it well enough. Well, you ARE students, so it's only fitting you're doing a study group." Sojiro said as Futaba smirked and spoke up.

"True. Still, you're going to bring us some snacks every now and then, right?" Futaba asked as Sojiro frowned and spoke up.

"What do you mean 'us'? You don't even have exams, Futaba." Sojiro pointed out. Futaba spoke up.

"True, but since Kusa's not exactly here to study for them, I can basically be studying on his behalf or something like that." Futaba said with a shrug as the rest of the group, or Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, and Haru, filed into Leblanc as Makoto spoke up.

"Pardon the intrusion." Makoto said as Sojiro smiled and spoke up.

"Oh, it's no intrusion at all. Glad to see you all. Heh, don't mind me. Make yourselves at home." Sojiro said as Haru smiled and spoke up.

"You're too kind, Boss. We'll take you up on that offer." Haru said as Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"Be that as it may, why did you bring me here? My school's exams are already over." Yusuke said as Ryuji smirked at him and spoke up.

"C'mon, don't be so cold! You sayin' that it's fine if I fail!?" Ryuji asked as Ren spoke up with a frown.

"And what, pray tell, does Yusuke being here have to do with if you pass or fail your exams, Ryuji? As he just pointed out, his school's exams are over. So he's really not required to be here. But I thank him for coming for moral support." Ren said as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"Exactly, Ren! And Ryuji, there's nothing wrong with that." Futaba said as Morgana got a sly smirk on his face and spoke up.

"Also, won't the results be the same whether you study or not?" Morgana asked as Ryuji rounded on the not-cat with an annoyed glare on his face as Ann spoke up.

"Now, now, you guys. Just think of it as helping me out!" Ann said as Makoto sighed and spoke up.

"Ugh, I don't know about this, to be honest." Makoto said as the group gathered around a booth seat as Makoto spoke up again.

"I'm just going to focus on sections that may likely be on the test. You're way too short on time." Makoto said as Futaba smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, making a gamble, huh?" Futaba said as Ryuji groaned and spoke up.

"Truth. If she's wrong, we die of embarrassment when our bad scores are posted for the whole school to see." Ryuji said as Ann winced and spoke up around a groan.

"Ohh, I don't wanna die, you guys." Ann said as Ren frowned and spoke up with a glare.

"How can you both speak so glibly about dying like that when, for all we know, either Kusa or Akechi, if not both of them, could actually be dead? Seems kinda disrespectful to me." Ren said while working on his studying. Haru frowned at this and spoke up.

"Yes, that's a very good point, Ren-kun. And I don't think we should be disrespecting either one of them, considering what they sacrificed to get us our most recent win. That said, um, is it really that bad to have your scores posted for the whole school to see?" Haru asked as Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"Unfortunately, this is every day for Ryuji and Ann. Not so much for Ren, though I do recall he is the least studious of the two Amamiya brothers. And if you think about it, the fact Kusa isn't able to take these exams with us is the real tragedy here. But I must say, I'm proud of Futaba for being able to handle all this talk of Kusa so maturely. I half-expected her to cry a bit when his name was mentioned, to be honest." Yusuke said as Futaba huffed and spoke up.

"First of all, don't make assumptions about me, Inari! Secondly, I believe Sojiro when he says Kusa's likely still alive and probably stuck out there somewhere trying to get back to us. So I'm not going to give up on him. That said, I also know he'd want me to stay strong for his sake." Futaba said wisely as Makoto smiled and spoke up.

"Well said, Futaba-chan. And don't be so quick to act non-chalant about this. After all, this affects you too, Ren-kun. Well, to be fair, with your grades? I'm not too worried about you. But you have missed a lot of classes, so it couldn't hurt to study, just to be on the safe side." Makoto said as Ann blinked then frowned as she spoke up.

"Oh yeah, that's right. Ren's good at studying. I feel kind of betrayed by that, to be honest." Ann said as Haru spoke up with a frown.

"Um, 'betrayed' might be a bit much, don't you think, Ann?" Haru said as Ren huffed and spoke up.

"Ann, you do realize that I help both you AND Ryuji study where I can, right? So don't be so betrayed by my ability to study." Ren said as Morgana smirked and spoke up.

"Don't worry, Lady Ann! Even if you're not great at studying, I'll help you out to the best of my ability." Morgana said as Makoto spoke up, causing Ann to ignore the not-cat as she focused on Makoto.

"Now then, let's get to it. What do you want me to teach you?" Makoto asked as Ren spoke up.

"Good question. There are so many subjects that might be on the test, to be honest. But thinking about it, I think History might be a safe bet, since nearly every exam so far has had a History part in it. So let's start by learning a bit of History, if you don't mind." Ren said politely. Ann nodded and spoke up.

"True. Now that I think about it, I feel like while Ren was out, there was something they were saying would be on the test that Ren missed out on." Ann said as Ryuji spoke up with a grin.

"Oh, I know! It was, uh, do, um, dokyu, err, what was it again?" Ryuji asked as Makoto thought about it and spoke up.

"Hm. History, you say? And Ryuji mentioned something about dokyu. Hm. Oh, I know! Was it about the origin of 'dokyuu'? If so, I know that quite well. 'Dokyuu' means something that is larger than others of its kind, but the name comes from a battleship or something similar. Oh, right. It was 'dreadnaught'. They attached 'do', the first sound of the word in Japanese, with 'kyuu', which means 'class'." Makoto said as Ryuji blinked at this and spoke up approvingly.

"Oh, yeah. That's it!" Ryuji said as Yusuke gave Makoto a shocked look and spoke up.

"Well, well. Not bad, Makoto. I'm impressed you knew what he was talking about." Yusuke said as Sojiro spoke up.

"Hey, how about taking a break?" Sojiro asked as Ryuji spoke up with a grin.

"Heh, sounds good to me! I can't do this any more." Ryuji said as the group took a break. During said break, Ryuji kept speaking.

"So like, we've been doin' phantom thief work all this time, right? We learned a bunch doing that. Even if we study and learn what we can in school, doesn't it feel kinda pointless?" Ryuji asked as Ren spoke up.

"That's true, Ryuji. But at the same time, studying is important too. After all, if we don't study, we can't continue to learn. And if we don't continue to learn, we start to slowly have our effectiveness as thieves diminish, bit by bit. Also, that would be extremely disrespectful to Kusa and Akechi if we don't make the most of the chance they gave us with their sacrifices, Ryuji." Ren pointed out wisely. Yusuke smirked and spoke up.

"That's true. But at the very least, it's necessary for Ryuji." Yusuke said as Ryuji glared at Yusuke and spoke up.

"You wanna say that again!?" Ryuji said threateningly as Sojiro spoke up.

"Hey, calm down. While you're both right in your own ways, you're also both wrong in a way as well. You see, those sorts of experiences are important too, but common sense is just as important. You should know better than anyone how nasty adults without common sense can be." Sojiro said wisely as Haru smiled and spoke up.

"Well put, Boss. That's a great point." Haru said as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"Someday, if your luck permits, you'll graduate high school and become adults. Then, when you get married, you'll need common sense, more than ever." Sojiro said as Ryuji blinked at this and spoke up in surprise.

"Is that right? Marriage, huh? Interesting." Ryuji said before turning to Ren and speaking up.

"Do you wanna get married, Ren?" Ryuji asked as Ren smirked and spoke up.

"I could answer that, but where's the fun in that? That's totally a secret, man. Though, if you thought about it, you'd know the answer to that question is an obvious one. Or have you not seen how close Kasumi and I are?" Ren said bluntly. Yusuke nodded and spoke up, noticing the slight wince on Futaba's face at the mentions of marriage.

"Regardless, that won't be for a while. And Ren, I like how you side-stepped the question. Very tactful of you to show consideration to those of us in the room who aren't likely to be lucky enough to potentially have marriage in their futures. That said, in the meantime, I'm more concerned with what I'm going to be eating tomorrow." Yusuke said as Ryuji groaned and spoke up.

"Dammit! Cut it out, man. You're makin' me hungry. Well, like it or not, I guess we just gotta get back to studyin'." Ryuji said reluctantly as the group continued their studying. After a while, Yusuke spoke up as Ryuji stretched as the others set their pencils down.

"Well, that concludes the last subject." Yusuke said as Ann spoke up with a closed-eye smile as she stretched.

"Ohh, that took so long!" Ann said as Makoto smiled and spoke up.

"Well, we covered all the difficult parts, so you should probably be fine." Makoto said as Haru spoke up while Ryuji leaned back in his seat.

"Good work, everyone." Haru said as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"See? You can do it if you try." Futaba said as Ren nodded, feeling as if he'd managed to increase his Knowledge from studying, giving his Knowledge a generous, if unneeded, boost. At that point, Ryuji spoke up.

"We're finally done with studying, man. Only God, uh, only knows, umm, how's that saying go again?" Ryuji asked as Ren spoke up with a smirk.

"I think you mean 'God only knows if it'll help us or not', don't you?" Ren asked Ryuji as Morgana smirked and spoke up.

"Since Kusa's not here to dissuade me from saying this, I'll say it. Ryuji's hopeless." Morgana said as Ryuji found the energy to sit up and glare at the not-cat as he spoke up.

"What did you say!?" Ryuji said as Sojiro spoke up to prevent a fight.

"Well, whatever happens, happens. Or as one of Futaba's shows once said, 'What will be, will be'. Or something like that. But anyways, isn't it about time you wrapped it up? Be careful on your way home." Sojiro said as Morgana spoke up.

"True. Sucks that you have to do exams, even after changing Shido's heart and saving the country. It's rough being a human. But looking at you? I have to say, I feel kind of jealous of humans." Morgana said as the group dispersed for the night on that note...

(A short time later, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren, Morgana and Sojiro)

"Hey, how's school treatin' you, now that you're back?" Sojiro asked Ren, who spoke up.

"Honestly? The same as ever. But at the same time, I welcome the distraction from being alone most of the time and having little else to do aside from constantly revisiting recent events and wondering if there was ways things could've been done differently to make it so we didn't have to lose two of our own like we did." Ren said honestly as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"That's true. I can't imagine it was fun, having to be hiding so soon after seemingly losing Kusa. Well, at least you don't have to hide anymore. That's something, right? Also, don't forget. Your probation ends soon. That said, I dunno if any of this, err, other stuff will affect that, so just keep quiet about it. And as far as Kusa goes, hopefully we can find him again before your probation ends, so that we don't have to come up with some story for why you managed to lose your court-appointed overseer." Sojiro said as Ren nodded, right as his phone went off to signify a group chat with Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Futaba, and Kasumi, with Yusuke sending the first response.

"How goes the case preparations against Shido?" Yusuke sent as Makoto sent a response.

"I don't know, to be honest. I haven't been able to see my sister." Makoto sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"For real, babe!? Is she OK?" Ryuji sent as Haru sent a response.

"I'm sure she is, and I'm sure she'll get the job done." Haru sent as Ann sent a response.

"Heh, that's right. I mean, she's a pretty talented prosecutor." Ann sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Be that as it may, all we can do is keep an eye on what comes next." Makoto sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"Agreed. Luckily, I was already in my assigned hotel room when this chat happened, so I was alone. Hopefully things will go favorably for us all." Kasumi sent as Ren sent a response.

"Heh, glad you got to your destination safely, Sumi. Good luck with your gymnastics meet tomorrow! Love you!" Ren sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"Love you too, Ren!" Kasumi sent as Ren put his phone away, managing to avoid both Ryuji and Futaba sending the same response, which was 'GET A ROOM!'. After making a run to the Velvet Room to do some Persona management, Ren saw he had an unread private chat, which to his surprise was from Hifumi. He opened it up to view it.

"I've been playing shogi by myself at the church. I've been honing my skills. However, playing by myself has been rather uninspiring, to say the least. If you don't have anything planned, let's play a match." Hifumi sent as Morgana spoke up, having seen the chat over Ren's shoulder.

"Oh? Hifumi seems to be waiting for you at the church. Wanna go see her?" Morgana asked Ren, who spoke up with a nod.

"Yeah, might as well. I can get her to MAX rank right now, which is one less Confidant to worry about. Also, I don't really feel like hanging out with Chihaya or Ohya tonight, so she's kinda the only option left, since both Iwai and Kawakami are unavailable to me. So yes, I'll hang out with her." Ren said, sending a response to Hifumi.

"As it happens, my night is rather free tonight. Granted, I have to be back fairly early since I have exams tomorrow, but other than that, I've got time for you. I'll be right there." Ren sent as Hifumi sent a response.

"Thank you. I look forward to your visit." Hifumi sent as Ren put his phone away and headed to the church in Kanda to see Hifumi...

(A short time later, at the church in Kanda, with Ren and Hifumi)

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Hifumi. I'm here, as you requested." Ren said politely as Hifumi smiled and spoke up.

"Good. And a good evening to you, Ren. 'A vulgar good move'. Have you heard this saying? If not, I'll explain it. Simply put, it means a move that anyone can conceive. However, there aren't many people who can implement their own strategy. I hope you continue to do what you believe in. From a teacher to her student, there's something I'd like to ask you, Ren. Will you play a match with me?" Hifumi asked as Ren nodded and spoke up, ignoring Morgana poking his head out of Ren's bag curiously as he spoke to Hifumi.

"As I said before, I've got time tonight. So sure, we can play a match if you want, Hifumi." Ren said agreeably as Hifumi smiled and spoke up.

"Heh, thank you, Ren. Please take a seat." Hifumi said as Ren took a seat on the bench with Hifumi, careful not to sit on the shogi board as he sat down. Once he sat down, Hifumi spoke up as she made the first move of their shogi game.

"I quit the Ladies Professional Shogi Players' Association. I need to start over as an amateur." Hifumi said as Ren spoke up.

"That sounds rather rough, Hifumi. But I know you'll triumph in the end. If nothing else, you know both Yusuke and I believe in you, and will root for you every step of the way." Ren said as Hifumi smiled and nodded as she spoke up.

"Correct. That's my intention. There were a lot of people who covered for me by saying that I was just being used by adults. But I'm the one who was most at fault. I was overconfident. If only I had taken a look at myself and properly assessed my shogi skills. I believed that with my skills, I could overcome being treated like an idol. However, there's nothing I can say about my mother. Still, thank you, Ren. Neither you nor Kitagawa-kun abandoned me, even after the two of you learned about the fixed matches and everything. Heh, now I know how encouraging it feels to have someone believe in you.

At first, this was just a deal for me. You help me develop new moves, and I give you shogi lessons. But before I knew it, you became much more than just a shogi partner. You became not only a close friend, but someone I couldn't do without. As such, I'm not gonna pay attention to all the criticism anymore. This time, I'll earn everyone's praise with my own skills." Hifumi said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I have no doubt you'll do just that, Hifumi. I believe in you. I'd say I'll be with you every step of the way, but I think we can trust Yusuke to handle that for me." Ren said honestly. Hifumi nodded as she spoke up.

"That's fair. Wouldn't want to make your girlfriend jealous and/or upset, after all. That said, the reason I'm able to think this way is because you stuck by my side. And, I'm really grateful." Hifumi said as Ren nodded, feeling a very strong bond with Hifumi at that moment. As he did so, the expected voice rang out in his head.

"I am thou, thou art I...Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath. Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion and break the yoke of thy heart. Thou has awakened to the ultimate secret of the Star, granting thee infinite power..." Ren heard in his mind as the 'Star' card appeared in his mind's eye, the 'IX' that was under the word 'Star' becoming an 'X' to signify that his Star Confidant Link with Hifumi had reached Rank 10, also noted on the card as 'MAX Rank'.

As a result of the maxed-out rank-up, Hifumi had bestowed the power of the 'Togo System' unto Ren, enabling him to be able to use any party member's turn to swap out for any back-up team member during a battle. From there, the words 'FUSION UNLOCKED' appeared over the maxed-out 'Star' card, causing a notification to ping on Ren's phone that he could new fuse 'Lucifer', or the most powerful Persona of the Star arcana. Afterwards, Hifumi kept speaking.

"Well then, on to our final lesson, Ren." Hifumi said as she and Ren exchanged bows before Hifumi kept speaking, not seeing the shocked looks on Ren and Morgana's faces at what she said next.

"I truly hope that you, no, not just you. That the Phantom Thieves find my lessons useful." Hifumi said as Ren blinked at this before he spoke up.

"Well, well. Not bad, Hifumi. So you know." Ren said, not trying to deny it or at all surprised that she had figured him out. From what he'd noticed, every other non-Phantom Thief Confidant he'd maxed out thus far, excluding Mishima, had called him out on being a Phantom Thief. Hifumi nodded and spoke up, pleased that Ren wasn't denying it.

"Yes. I spoke to you about my mother, and then my mother changed not too long afterwards. I knew that couldn't be a coincidence. That said, if there's anything I can do to help, please know that you can rely on me." Hifumi said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"That's reassuring, Hifumi. I'll let you know if there's anything that you can do, but for now, just keep being my friend. That, and keep an open mind when it comes to Yusuke. After all, I get the sense you both feel the same way about each other." Ren said wisely. Hifumi nodded and spoke up.

"Fair enough. I planned to do that anyways. That said, I will support you in whatever you want to accomplish. Now, let's play a match. I have a lot of new moves I'd like to test out. I hope you're okay to stay here a while longer." Hifumi said as Ren nodded and spoke up as Hifumi spoke up once more while playing her match with Ren.

"Thank you, Ren, for everything. From the bottom of my heart." Hifumi said as Ren nodded, heading back to Leblanc after finishing his match, getting comfortable as he headed to bed for the night...

(The next day, on the train to school with Ren and Morgana)

"What is this? Do you think Representative Shido really had a change of heart?" A young woman near Ren asked the young man next to her, who spoke up.

"Well, there's a lot of talk about him being exhausted, maybe even sick. Who knows, though, if that's true. Besides, he'd have been arrested already if any of it were true. Maybe he's waiting on an official statement from the government on who'll be the next prime minister?" The young man said as the young woman from before spoke up.

"Maybe. I dunno, something about this seems off. Oh well. If there's no real issues with Representative Shido, I'd much rather just have him as prime minister." The young woman said as Morgana frowned at this and spoke up so only Ren could hear.

"What!? Hey, think harder about this! Hold on a sec, there's nothing BUT issues!" Morgana said as Ren nodded, but said nothing as the rest of the train ride passed uneventfully...

(Between trains to school, with Ren, Morgana, and Ryuji)

Ryuji walked up to Ren and spoke up after yawning.

"Mornin', Ren. It's school exams today. Mm. We're the heroes who saved this country, right? Can't we be exempt from exams? And is it just me, or do we not have as big a sense of accomplishment as I thought?" Ryuji asked as Ren frowned and spoke up.

"Eh, not sure. But one thing I know for sure? The public response sucked. Granted, it could be due to exams, but I think it's more than that." Ren said. Ryuji nodded and spoke up.

"Truth! That's it! People are so doubtful even after the press conference. He hasn't been arrested, so I guess that's expected for now. As much as I dislike doing nothing, we just gotta leave it to Makoto's sister now. Man, I wish exams would magically disappear by the time we get to school!" Ryuji said as Ren nodded as the rest of the trip to school went uneventfully...

(A bit later, at Shujin, with Ren)

As Ren got to school, his phone rang, and he blinked when he saw it was Kasumi calling. He quickly answered it.

"Hello? Ren speaking." Ren said as he heard Kasumi's voice on the other end.

"Ah, Ren! Good morning! I hope I didn't wake you!" Kasumi said as Ren spoke up.

"Not at all. I'm actually inside Shujin right now, getting ready to head to class for exams. Some way to return to school, eh? Oh well, guess it is what it is." Ren said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Ah, that's true. Forgot about exams for a bit. Luckily, the coach got me an exemption to take them late so I didn't have to miss the gymnastics meet. And good luck to you! That said, it's been quite a while since I got to speak to you while you were at school. That said, thank you for changing Shido's heart, Ren. I'm sure both Kusa and Akechi are smiling widely right now, or they would be if they could've seen that press conference he gave recently." Kasumi said as Ren spoke up.

"Heh, thanks, Sumi. But didn't you say your gymnastics meet starts today?" Ren said as Kasumi spoke up.

"Yes, but not until this afternoon. I woke up a bit early so I could speak to you beforehand. And if anything, you're the one deserving of all the thanks, Ren. Not only did you manage to lead the group to a come-from-behind victory, but you also managed to avenge both of our lost comrades as well. That said, when I get back to Yongen, we should go somewhere to celebrate. Hm, but where? Oh, ah! I know! What say we go together and pay our first respects to the shrine? A new year's about to begin and all." Kasumi said as she heard the school bell go off in the background and wince as she spoke up.

"But, before that, I suppose we ought to deal with our exams and this gymnastics meet first. I'll be in touch after the meet, when we're on the drive back to Yongen. Until then, please excuse me! Love you, Ren!" Kasumi said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Good luck, Sumi! Do your best! Love you too." Ren said as he nodded, hanging up his phone and heading to class for his exams, his resolve bolstered from speaking ot Kasumi...

(After Day 1 of the exams, in the evening, at the attic of Leblanc with Ren and Morgana)

As Ren sat on his bed, getting ready to go to sleep after his first day of exams, his phone went off, surprising him with a private chat from Kasumi. He opened his phone to view the private chat.

"Hello, Senpai. I couldn't really say too much on the phone earlier, but I just wanted to let you know again that I'm glad things worked out for you, more or less. That said, do you remember the promise we made on the roof?" Kasumi sent as Ren sent a response.

"Of course I do, Sumi. We made a promise to spend more time together after things blow over somewhat. And we've already started to make good on that with what we did before you had to leave town for your gymnastics meet, plus inducting you into the group." Ren sent. Kasumi smiled as she sent a response.

"Really!? I was so happy to hear your voice this morning, that I invited you without really thinking it through first. But it looks like we can make good on that promise some more by visiting the shrine. That said, thank you for coming back to me safely, Ren. I don't know what I would've done if I'd actually lost you that day, to tell you the truth." Kasumi sent as Ren sent a response.

"Hey, it's okay, Sumi. I'm sorry I caused you to worry about me for the short period of time you had to worry, but I'm back and I'm not going anywhere. You're stuck with me for the foreseeable future, and maybe even the long term. Never doubt that I love you with all my heart, and probably always will, Sumi." Ren sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"You don't have to apologize, Ren! I'm just grateful you're alive. And I love you too. I only wish I could do more to help the team than just provide moral support over group chat. But with the gymnastics meet and all, my hands are a bit tied at the moment. And unfortunately, as soon as exams and Christmas are over, I'll be going to a local training camp that Coach enrolled me in. Honestly, I wasn't sure I should go.

After all, you were going through so much recently, and even before that day, that I didn't think it was right of me to leave you like that for that long. But now that you're safe, and we've dealt with Shido, I don't have to worry! I can fully focus on my training now! Oh, but sorry to bother you when you're in the middle of the exams, Ren. I still have to do mine when the gymnastics meet ends. Ugh. Anyways, love you! Talk to you later!" Kasumi sent as Ren put his phone away and Morgana spoke up.

"Huh. Sounds like we really had Yoshizawa worried. But that's not a surprise, given she's your girlfriend and all. That said, I just wish we could get the general public to change their minds about us, too. But I doubt it's going to be that simple." Morgana said as Ren nodded and put his phone down as the two went to bed for the night...

(The next morning, between trains to school with Ren, Morgana, and Ann)

Ann walked up to Ren and spoke up with a smile.

"Morning! Ah, good morning, Ren. Ugh, another day of tests awaits us today. We finally defeated Shido, but we still have finals despite that? Aren't these battles one after the other tough?" Ann asked as Ren spoke up.

"They're tougher than Shido. But at the same time, do we really have the luxury of complaining about exams, when Akechi and Kusa don't have that luxury wherever they are?" Ren pointed out. Ann blinked at this and spoke up in shock.

"Wha-For real!? How behind are you!? Handle your exams like you do your changes of heart, Ren! Also, you have a point. But still, Shido was way worse than this." Ann said as Ren spoke up.

"I didn't mean that as in I was behind. I meant that in the sense that these exams are a formidable opponent in their own right, since I was kinda out of school for two weeks, for 'reasons'." Ren pointed out as Ann nodded and spoke up.

"Fair enough. That said, tomorrow's the final day of exams, Ren. Well, let's do our best, I guess." Ann said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"True. Still, I feel like if she weren't out of town for that gymnastics meet, Kasumi probably would be approaching us right now to chat." Ren said, blinking as his phone rang at that point, and Ren's eyes widened slightly as he saw Kasumi was calling. Ren shrugged and put the phone on speaker as he answered it.

"Hello? Ren speaking." Ren said as he answered the phone and Kasumi spoke up, smiling as she heard Ann ask 'is that Kasumi?' in the background before she spoke up.

"Oh, Ann-senpai! And Ren-senpai! What are the odds you'd both be together right when I called? Good morning." Kasumi said as Ann smiled and spoke up.

"Morning, Kasumi. I just ran into Ren too on our way to school. That said, how has the gymnastics meet been going for you, Kasumi? You've been rather busy with practices and having to drive out of town recently." Ann said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Yes, well, it's been pretty good so far. But today is the second day for those of us who are still in the running to win. And amazingly, I'm among that number. I feel rather optimistic about my chances right now. And the practices haven't been too bad either. As for exams, those will be after the gymnastics meet is over, from what Coach told me. Lucky me, having exams AFTER a grueling gymnastics meet. That said, I almost passed out from anxiety last night." Kasumi said as Ren spoke up.

"Ah, which is probably when you sent me those texts that you sent. I'm glad I was able to cheer you up, at least. Just relax and do your best, Sumi. I know you can do it if you put your mind to it. I believe in you." Ren said as Ann spoke up at that point.

"Heh, what Ren said! I believe in you too, Kasumi! And so do the others! That said, let's see if we can do better today than we did yesterday." Ann said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Yes, that's a good point. I should try and focus myself as much as possible before the next round starts." Kasumi said as Ann and Ren nodded, the latter speaking up.

"That's the spirit, Sumi. As much as I don't want to do it, I'm gonna have to let you go now. Ann and I have to get our next train to school for exams. Love you." Ren said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Don't worry about it, Ren! I understand. And I love you too. Bye!" Kasumi said as Ren hung up the phone and he and Ann headed on to their next day of exams...

(The next morning, on the train to school with Ren and Morgana)

"What happened to Shido? Has anyone seen him since the press conference?" A middle-aged office worker near Ren asked a glasses-wearing worker next to him, who spoke up with a shrug.

"No clue. Shucks! I had high hopes for him, too. It's unacceptable for Japan to be without a prime minister. I hope he steps back up to lead this country, to be honest." The glasses-wearing worker said as the middle-aged office worker spoke up.

"Yes. Honestly, there's no one more qualified than Shido to lead Japan as prime minister." The middle-aged office worker said as Morgana frowned and spoke up so only Ren could hear.

"HEY! Is everyone out of their minds? How can they still trust Shido?" Morgana asked as Ren shrugged and said nothing as the rest of the train ride passed uneventfully...

(Between trains to school, with Ren and Makoto)

"Morning, Ren. Today's the last day of exams. Are things going well for you?" Makoto asked as Ren nodded and Makoto kept speaking.

"That's good. I'm doing the same as usual. Well, no problems. That said, I'm all right with it, but my sister hasn't come home these past few days. I think she has a lot on her plate, what with building a case against Shido and all. He has connections to powerful people. I'm sure they want him cleared to save their own skins." Makoto said as Ren spoke up.

"True, but I have faith that your sister has this, Makoto." Ren said. Makoto gave Ren a closed-eye smile as she spoke up.

"Yeah, I believe so, too. And it's my sister. She'll see it through, I'm sure. However, with that said, now isn't the time for us to slack off, either. Do you remember what the exams will cover? I'll check on the train for you." Makoto said as Ren winced, but nodded as the two took the train to school together for the final day of exams...

(That afternoon, after exams, in class with Ren, Morgana and Ann)

"Hm, so today's the last day of exams, huh? Well, it shouldn't be a problem for you. This has been so easy, I might start yawning. Mwehehe, you did perfectly, Ren! I can't wait to see your score." Morgana said as Ren nodded agreeably.

(After school, with Ren and Morgana)

"Well then! Don't let your guard down until Shido's changed, got it? And keep a low profile." Morgana said to Ren, who nodded as he pondered his options. After looking over his options carefully, he saw that literally every one of his daytime Confidants were available to rank up, even the ones he maxed out, such as Ann, Yusuke, and Ryuji. But he knew this was no time to be wasting time hanging with maxed-out Confidants. So he ruled out Ann, Yusuke, and Ryuji.

From there, he further ruled out both Haru and Takemi, along with Shinya, since he felt this was a day to max out a Confidant. After looking through the rest of his options, he was left with either Makoto or Futaba to hang out with. After thinking it over, he decided to hang out with Futaba. Ren then saw he had several unread chats. He saw that one of them was from Futaba, so he opened it up to read it.

"Heyo, Ren! It's finally time to take down the final boss. I, if possible, want to do the last item on my promise list. Do you remember? The final boss is, and I quote, 'being OK without you around'. I'm gonna try it, so come with me, big bro!" Futaba sent as Ren mulled it over and Morgana spoke up.

"Ah, so Futaba wants to hang out with you, eh? What's the plan, Ren? Are you gonna hang out with Futaba today?" Morgana asked Ren, who nodded as he spoke up.

"I think I will, to be honest. This seems like a good time to max out my Confidant link with Futaba. So yeah, I'll hang out with her." Ren said before sending a response.

"I'm not sure how me coming along makes it easier to finish that last boss, as you put it. But if you think my presence will be beneficial at all, then sure. I'll come with you. I'll be right over." Ren sent as Futaba sent a response almost immediately.

"Yes! Woo-hoo! OK, let's get our butts over to Akihibara!" Futaba sent as Ren sent a response, subtly amused at Futaba's choice of locations for tackling the final item on her promise list, as it was also where he'd first forged his Confidant link with her.

"All right, I'm on my way. I'll meet you there shortly, little sis." Ren sent as he put his phone away. Afterwards, Ren fast-traveled to Akihibara to meet up with Futaba...

(A short time later, in Akihibara, with Ren and Futaba)

"Wait here, Ren. I'm going to go and take a look around here by myself. If I'm not back in half an hour, send a search party. But for real, just stay here and wait for me to come back." Futaba said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Not a problem, little sis. I believe in you. You can do this. Now go check out the store on your own." Ren said encouragingly as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"R-Right. I'm kinda nervous, to be honest. But here I go. Time to make like a tree, probably a great tree even, and branch out!" Futaba said as she walked off alone. Ren stood where he was told to, and waited for her. In what seemed like no time, thirty minutes had passed, but there was no sign of Futaba returning to Ren. Ren frowned at the fact that Futaba still wasn't back. After a bit longer, Ren sweatdropped as he checked the clock on his phone and saw that Futaba had been gone for forty-five minutes. At that point, Ren started to get a bit worried. Right at that moment, Futaba came walking up, a mixed proud/anxious look on her face as she spoke up.

"Oh, um, sorry! I totally forgot to check the time! I, umm, to be honest? I was having fun. Hm, guess that means I beat my mission, huh?" Futaba asked as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"You sure did, little sis. But more than that, you knocked out not one, but TWO missions today. 'Being okay without Ren around', and also 'Being okay without Kusa around', though to be fair, you've kinda been knocking the latter out every day since he got separated from us in Shido's Palace." Ren said, keeping his voice down as he said the last few words. Futaba smiled and nodded as she spoke up.

"That's true. I did knock out two missions today, didn't I? Heh, y'know, it was the same Akihibara as before, but everything looked so different to me this time. But, it's not just here, though. My whole world is expanding! Every day brings new and different discoveries. The direction of Sojiro's cowlick, the atmosphere of Yongen, the various types of coffee beans that exist, and so on.

That said, things might be the exact same as they were yesterday, but from my perspective, it's all spinning. I knew it was possible, big bro. But I had never really felt that sensation before until now. I just hope I can keep changing little by little, much like how everyone else does." Futaba said as Ren spoke up with a smile on his face.

"I'm sure you will, little sis. You can do this. I believe in you, and so do the rest of our friends. Even Kusa, wherever he is right now, believes in you. So keep changing yourself, bit by bit. Maybe with any luck, you can really blow Kusa away when you see him again with how much you've changed since he last saw you." Ren said. Futaba smiled and nodded as she slid her glasses back up her face and spoke up.

"Mm-hm. I know I can do it now. Oh, by the way, get a load of this, big bro! I got a text from Kana-chan saying she got a job at a convenience store. It sounds like she's just happy to be living like a normal teenager. Plus, she got study guides with the money she made! She's gonna take the high school entrance exams! Even Kana-chan's trying to step out into the world." Futaba said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"That's true. To be honest with you, little sis, Kana-chan might be one of your first friends, but even then, I think you know deep down you can't lose out to her. Even Kusa would probably agree that you should do your best to keep pace with her, if not surpass her." Ren said wisely. Futaba smiled as she nodded and spoke up.

"Yup! She's my new rival! Hey, that's right! You said you'd give me a reward if I completed my promise list, remember!?" Futaba said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I do remember that, little sis. And I honor my promises, so I'll reward you for finishing your promise list, as long as the reward doesn't get too crazy. So anything, within reason, that you want, if it's in my power to get/do, consider it yours." Ren said to Futaba, who nodded happily as she spoke up.

"Sweet! You da man! You know, I was looking in a bunch of stores thinking about what to buy, big bro. But it felt kinda weird. There were plenty of things I wanted, but it was all stuff I could get if I worked real hard. And after all, if we're being honest here, I already have something I wouldn't have been able to get on my own." Futaba said as Ren shook his head and spoke up.

"No, I wouldn't say you have just one thing that you wouldn't have been able to get on your own." Ren said as Futaba spoke up in surprise.

"No? You don't think so? No, of course you don't. But then, you're obviously forgetting something. Not only Kusa, but you as well, gave me something really important. In your case, you gave me my life back. And in Kusa's case, well, he gave me both a reason to try and get out into the world again, and something I didn't think I'd ever find again after Mom passed. That something is the unconditional love of a person close to me. Granted, Sojiro gave the same, but obviously Sojiro's was moreso a familial sort of love, whereas Kusa's was most definitely the sort of love of someone who is truly committed to me.

Also, he let me feel as if I actually had something special with him. Back on the topic of you, big bro, it's thanks to you that I learned I'm fine just as I am, but not only that. I also learned to stop being so withdrawn and to trust my mom again. Kusa tried to help with that, but he couldn't quite make that final push to get me to actually trust her, whereas you and the others were able to help me actually be willing to trust her. Also, I was as good as dead, but you resurrected me. As such, I want to use my work with the Phantom Thieves to return you the favor. And when I remember all the friends I've made with the Phantom Thieves, it's like i'm tapping into some kind of unknown power!" Futaba said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Good. That means you're starting to really be able to trust others, and be able to feel their strength inside you. I'm proud of you, little sis." Ren said with a smile as he felt a strong bond with Futaba in that moment, and on cue, the expected voice rang in his head.

"I am thou, thou art I... Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath. Thy bonds shall become the wings of rebellion and break the yoke of thy heart. Thou hast awakened to the ultimate secret of the Hermit, granting thee infinite power..." Ren heard as the 'Hermit' card appeared in his mind's eye, the 'IX' under the word Hermit turning into an 'X' to signify that his Hermit Confidant link with Futaba had reached Rank 10, also noted on the card as 'MAX Rank'.

From the maxed-out rank-up, Futaba had awakened to the power of 'Final Guard', giving her the chance to be able to nullify a fatal attack to a front-line party member. In addition, Futaba had gained the power of 'Second Awakening', allowing her Personas to transform into mythological tricksters. From there, the words 'FUSION UNLOCKED' appeared over the maxed-out 'Hermit' card, prompting Ren's phone to ping with the notification that Ren could now fuse Ongyo-Ki, or the most powerful Persona of the Hermit arcana.

Afterwards, the shot cut to a view of Futaba's mind's eye, where both Necronomicon and Nostradamus were consumed in twin flashes of light, and in their place stood two different beings. Where Necronomicon once stood, now stood a glowing multi-colored orb that put Ren vaguely to mind of a cross between a disco ball and the Death Star. Where Nostradamus once stood, now stood a much taller being, with long flowing robes and a much longer staff than the one Nostradamus had wielded, with an orb on the end that he used to stand straighter.

And where Nostradamus' robes were largely purple and black, this figure's robes were nominally white and a similar shade of green to the green on Futaba's Phantom Thief attire. The new being that replaced Nostradamus had a smug grin on his face as he crossed his arms even while using one hand to hold his staff upright. At that point, Futaba's voice could be heard as she spoke up.

"Whoa, what the heck? This is insane! My heart just leveled up! Two new mes rise from the ashes!" Futaba said in surprise as she saw her new Personas. At that same time, everyone's phones in the group, excluding the absent Kusa and Akechi, pinged with the notification that Futaba's 'Necronomicon' and 'Nostradamus' Personas had transformed into 'Prometheus' and 'Saruman', respectively. After that, Futaba kept speaking up.

"Thank you, big bro! You gave me my life back, so now it's my turn to risk my life for you. Feel free to tell me anything. I'll do whatever I can to help. After all, you and Kusa can't be the only ones trying to shoulder stuff on this team, right?" Futaba said as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"Whatever you say, little sis. But no, I'm not having you risk your life too foolishly! You do realize that Kusa would probably throttle me when we see him again if I let anything happen to you, right?" Ren said as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"Oh, come on, big bro! I'm serious, okay!?" Futaba said as Ren spoke up once more.

"I know. As long as you can understand I'm not gonna let you do anything TOO risky, I have no problems counting on you where needed, little sis. After all, I owe it to Kusa to watch over you in his absence. In all seriousness though, I'm counting on you." Ren said. Futaba smiled as she pumped her fists and spoke up.

"Heh, leave it to me! And, one more thing! I never said I was gonna let my reward go unclaimed!" Futaba said as Ren blinked at this while Futaba kept speaking.

"So, lemme see, what to ask for as my reward? How about a month's supply of instant yakisoba!? Pretty good deal, huh!? I don't wanna order it off the net, though! Let's go look for it in the real world! Heh, now I know how much fun walking around can be!" Futaba said as she turned to walk off, stopping as she turned back to face Ren while giggling as she spoke up.

"Hee hee! Thanks, Ren. You're not a bad big brother figure." Futaba said as Ren nodded. At that point, the screen cut to Promethus' skill screen, to show he'd gained the passive skill 'Treasure Skimmer', allowing Oracle to use his powers to find out if a foe is carrying a rare item ahead of time. While Promethus acquired 'Treasure Skimmer', the shot then cut to Saruman's skill screen to show that like Thailog, Saruman's evolution had bestowed him with two new skills in the passive skill 'Spell Master', as well as the Colossal-tier Psy Skill 'Mana Blast', which Saruman easily acquired. After that, Ren headed back to Leblanc for the evening... *1*

(That evening, inside of Leblanc with Ren, Sojiro and Morgana)

As Ren walked into Leblanc, Morgana spoke up.

"Hey! Something should've happened by now with Shido, shouldn't it?" Morgana said to Ren, who shrugged as his phone went off to signify a group chat with Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Futaba, and Kasumi, with Makoto sending the first response.

"Congratulations on getting through exams, everyone." Makoto sent as Futaba sent a response at that point.

"Yeah, congrats! You guys did it! From what I heard, even Kasumi got through her exams recently!" Futaba sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"Ugh, don't remind me, Futaba-chan. I had to stay up so late last night finishing exams. Luckily, Coach let me sleep in while we started the last leg of the drive home. As you might have guessed, the meet ended yesterday. And, well, I'll wait until I get home to share how I did, but suffice it to say I did very well." Kasumi sent as Ann sent a response.

"Congrats, Kasumi! That sounds very promising! That said, it's finally over. I'm worried about the end result though, to be honest." Ann sent as Haru sent a response.

"You all did your best. I'm sure you'll be fine." Haru sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Yes, you all did very well for how last-minute most of your studies were. That said, you should've studied all of your subjects though, instead of trying to guess what's on the exam." Makoto sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"WHAT!? Are you for real, babe!? There's no way I can do that!" Ryuji sent as Yusuke sent a response at that point.

"Ah, the cry of desperation from the lazy buffoon we call a Ryuji." Yusuke sent teasingly as Kasumi sent a response.

"Um, Yusuke-senpai? Isn't that kind of rude to say something like that about Ryuji-senpai where he can see? Also, why do I feel like that's something Kusa-kun would've said were he able to be part of this chat right now?" Kasumi sent as Futaba sent a response.

"Because it totally is something he'd probably say teasingly. To be honest Kasumi, Yusuke likely learned that remark directly from Kusa, with all the times he said it himself." Futaba sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Oookay, we're getting off topic a bit. That said, back on topic. Exams aside, I heard back from my sister. There's been some progress. She'll be interrogating Shido soon. She also apologizes for the wait, and promises she will manage to build the case against him." Makoto sent as Ann sent a response.

"Yes! Finally!" Ann sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Truth, Ann! I can't wait to see what kind of news it makes!" Ryuji sent as Kasumi sent a response.

"Not only that, Ryuji-senpai, but I want to see how quickly the news gets Ren-senpai's name cleared!" Kasumi sent as Haru sent a response.

"Yes, well, why don't we take the opportunity and go out on the town tomorrow?" Haru suggested as Ann sent a response.

"Great idea, Haru! Let's meet in Shibuya at noon and forget about our exams!" Ann sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Yeah, screw exams!" Ryuji sent as Ren sent a response.

"Got it, Ann. And Ryuji, should you really be saying 'screw exams' like that, when your girlfriend, who is one of the most studious people in Shujin, is in this chat? I feel like that's kinda disrespectful to her." Ren sent. Makoto then sent a response.

"While you're not wrong Ren-kun, I know Ryuji meant no offense with his remark, so I can forgive his remark this time. Besides, I know he can't literally screw an exam, so I don't mind if he says that. Besides, I'm pretty sure he knows whose job it is to actually do the screwing here." Makoto sent jokingly, unaware of how badly her statement would be taken out of context by the others. After a lot of people sputtered at her choice of phrase, Futaba finally sent a response.

"Ooookay then, now that we know how Makoto really feels, maybe the rest of us should get outta here and let her and Ryuji have some private time? Hee hee, and on that note, I'm gonna make like a tree and get outta here for now! Seeya!" Futaba sent as the others, bar Makoto and Ryuji, all did the same and Ren put his phone away. After that, Ren then considered his options carefully.

After considering his options carefully, Ren saw that he had Chihaya and Ohya available to hang out with, while he also had Sojiro, Kawakami, and Iwai around, but two of them were gated off by Mementos requests, and Sojiro was maxed out already. Ren then saw unread private chats from Ohya and Chihaya. After skimming Ohya's private chat, he then opened up Chihaya's, figuring he could hang out with her as he'd not hung out with her for a bit.

"Evening, Amamiya-kun. Do you remember what I told you last time? It's about that man who visited the other day. That was Chairman Fukurai, or more simply put, my boss. Well, I'd like to talk to you about him. Are you free today, by chance?" Chinaya sent as Morgana spoke up, having read the chat over Ren's shoulder.

"Hm? Looks like I missed some stuff while I was staying with Futaba and the chief. You can fill me in on it later if you want. For now, the important question is this. Will you go hang out with Chihaya tonight?" Morgana asked Ren, who nodded as he spoke up.

"I'll fill you in when I can. You didn't miss too too much, though. Just a few maxed out Confidants, and maybe a bit of drama. But nothing too big. That said, I do believe I will in fact hang out with Chihaya, since it's her or Ohya, and I'd rather not sit through more of Ohya's shenanigans. Did you know she had the audacity to claim to be my girlfriend without asking me the other night!? How dare she! No, I'll hang out with Chihaya tonight, I think." Ren said, getting a nod from Morgana as he sent a response to Chihaya.

"As it happens, my evening is very much open tonight. So I can definitely hear you out. If it pleases you, I'll be right there." Ren sent as Chihaya sent a response.

"Great! Thank you so much! We can talk after I close up shop. Stop by then!" Chihaya sent as Ren nodded before putting his phone away and heading to meet Chihaya in Shinjuku after leaving Morgana behind to watch Leblanc...

(A short time later, at a bench in Shinjuku, with Ren and Chihaya)

After Ren and Chihaya had a seat at a bench together, Chihaya looked at Ren and spoke up.

"Um, can I be honest with you, Amamiya-kun?" Chihaya asked Ren, who nodded as Chihaya kept speaking.

"Good. So I've been thinking a lot about our last meeting, and to tell the truth? I wasn't completely honest with you. But I've decided. I'm going to tell you everything about Fukurai-san. As well as the real reason why I decided to leave my village back then." Chihaya said as Ren nodded and listened attentively as Chihaya kept speaking.

"Thank you. Well, to start, I already told you about how it was a small, traditional town tucked away in the mountains, right? Well, when I was young, I predicted a major earthquake. The villagers revered me as a messenger of God after that. But, when I kept predicting disasters, they started blaming me for everything. They said I was cursed, a monster, and that I should stop predicting things. So I locked myself away. People would still come by to throw stones through the windows though, even after I locked myself away. Things went on like that for some time, showing no signs of stopping.

At least, they did for a while. Until, one day, an angry mob came and burned the house down. Thankfully, I'd stepped out to get some sunlight, and wasn't home when it was burnt down, but you can imagine my horror when I came back to a burnt down ruin of where I once lived. Everything I had was burnt down and destroyed. All I had left to my name were the clothes on my back and myself." Chihaya said as Ren blinked and spoke up.

"No way. That's awful, Mifune-san. I'm sorry to hear you had to go through that." Ren said understandingly as Chihaya smiled and spoke up.

"Thank you. Anyways, that's why I decided to come to Tokyo after graduating high school. I wanted to change my fate, if i could. I didn't know anyone, but I needed money in the worst way, just to survive. And so I took the first job I could find at a small nightclub I'd heard about. I found myself surrounded by dangerous people who were into very questionable things. And even though it seemed bad, there was one silver lining, which I didn't see coming. But that's when Fukurai-san approached me.

Um, in case I didn't make it clear before? He's a psychic too, you know. He knew from a mere glance that I was a runaway who had just come to Tokyo. And then, once I told him why I decided to leave my village, he immediately invited me to join up with the ADP. That was when he gave me the moniker of the Maiden of Relief. He also told me that I possessed a divine power to save others from misfortune, or so he claimed at the time.

He even told me that I could become more than the monster people saw me as. I couldn't help myself after that. I broke down the moment he said that. Hahaha, pretty pathetic, right? But deep down, I knew all along that the Holy Stones didn't have any powers, despite what Fukurai-san told me. But I thought I might be able to save people, even though I was a monster.

Or perhaps because I was a monster, I felt I could relate to what others were going through more. So the truth is, I was only ever selling those Holy Stones for my own personal benefit. But because of that, I cheated you out of a large sum of money, and I feel bad for that. I'm sorry, Amamiya-kun. You must think I'm a terrible person, huh?" Chihaya asked Ren, who frowned at Chihaya briefly before smiling at her as he spoke up reassuringly after considering his response carefully.

"You say you're a monster, Mifune-san. But I disagree. I don't think so at all. Yes, you cost me a lot of money. But to be honest? You also taught me a valuable lesson in what NOT to do with a large sum of money. Yes, my little brother was livid with me when he found out I spent that 100,000 yen on your Holy Stone, but even if it didn't do anything of benefit, I consider that money an investment. You see, had I not done that, we might not have spent the time together we did.

And even if I've just been doing verification tests with you so far, I've enjoyed every second of it. You're a good person, Mifune-san. And no matter what anyone else says? You're no monster. You're just Chihaya, the kind-hearted fortune-teller trying to make a living. It's up to you how you choose to use your powers. But know that no matter what, I've got your back. So don't call yourself a monster around me. Because to be honest? If you were to ask me if I thought you're a monster? I don't think so." Ren said kindly to Chihaya, who blinked at Ren in surprise before shyly smiling as she spoke up.

"Really!? Th-Thank you! But what? Are you serious? My fortune said that you're supposed to hate me for what I've done. I'm stunned. To think that you continue to defy my fortunes. I never thought you would overturn even that fate, Amamiya-kun. I'm impressed." Chihaya said with a smile before getting to her feet, a resolved/determined look on her face as she kept speaking.

"And you know what else? I've made up my mind! I see now how wrong I was. I'm not going to keep turning a blind eye to injustice! I'm going to expose the chairman's fraudulent activities and wake the other members up to the truth!" Chihaya said before turning to face Ren and giving him a closed-eye smile as she kept speaking.

"And that said, thank you so much for listening to me, Amamiya-kun. It means a lot to me. Just know that if there's ever anything you need to talk about, I'd be glad to return the favor, Amamiya-kun." Chihaya said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Thank you. I'll keep that in mind, Mifune-san. But let's just keep working on our deal together. And hopefully together, we can do something about your boss." Ren said, smiling as he could sense a strong resolve coming from Chihaya in that moment.

At that moment, the 'Fortune' card appeared in his mind's eye, the 'VI' underneath the word 'Fortune' turning into a 'VII' to signify that his Fortune Confidant link with Chihaya had reached Rank 7. As a result of the rank-up, Chihaya had awakened to the power of the 'Special Fate Reading', making it so that she could now provide Ren with a full preview of all the abilities of any Confidant of his choosing. And on top of that, once revealed, the previewed abilities remain viewable for Ren at anytime. Afterwards, Chihaya kept speaking, a frown on her face.

"Urgh! But now that I think about it though, just saying the Holy Stones are powerless won't convince people. The ADP holds what they call 'seminars' for believers, but the truth is that it's really just brainwashing. And that's why everyone thinks they'll be unhappy without a Holy Stone. And honestly? I don't hold any sway there, even though I'm the Maiden of Relief. It's kind of frustrating, to tell you the truth. Um, but just who is this chairman, anyways? Oh, never mind for now. Let me think it over some more. We can talk further next time." Chihaya said as Ren nodded and got to his feet while speaking up.

"That's fine by me. But if that's all, I should probably start getting back so I'm home before curfew. But I will make it a point to find time for you again soon. Just know that it might not be right away, since I get the feeling that my schedule's about to get rather packed for the next at least few days. But as soon as I can, I'll try to make time for you and I to hang out, okay?" Ren said to Chihaya, who nodded as she spoke up.

"Sounds good. And Amamiya-kun? Well, thank you again for today! I'll see you next time!" Chihaya said as Ren nodded, heading back to Leblanc, where his phone rang as he got to the doorstep, shrugging as he answered it.

"Hello? Ren Amamiya's phone. Ren speaking." Ren said as he answered the phone, not at all shocked to hear Chihaya's voice on the other end as she spoke up.

"Hello? It's Chihaya. Amamiya-kun, please hear me out. Now that I think about it, I barely know anything about the chairman, much less the ADP in general, and that's a problem. So that's why I'm thinking of doing some research on the ADP first. I'm done turning a blind eye!" Chihaya said as Ren spoke up.

"I see. Well, don't take any needless risks doing that, Mifune-san. Are you gonna be okay doing that on your own?" Ren asked as Chihaya giggled on the other end after hearing Ren's response as she spoke up.

"Aw, how sweet! Are you actually saying you're worried about me, Amamiya-kun! Hee hee! That kind of makes me happy. But yes, I'll be all right. As long as I have the trust of my clients and believers. I am the Maiden of Relief, after all. That said, from now on, I will see with my own two eyes, rather than through cryptic fortunes. I'll let you know if I find anything, so please, promise me you'll come by again!" Chihaya said as Ren spoke up.

"I promise. It might not be right away, but when I can find time, I will make it a point to come see you again. Again, it might not be right away, since I do have other things to do as well, but I'll do my best to make time for you as soon as I can. How's that?" Ren said as Chihaya spoke up.

"Sounds good to me, Amamiya-kun! Now, I should be going and getting started on that research! Bye-bye until next time!" Chihaya said as Ren nodded, hanging up the phone as he headed inside to check on Morgana, unaware of what else was going on at that same time elsewhere in town...

(At that same time, outside of a house in a location close to Kichijoji, with Kasumi)

As a dark-blue station wagon pulled into the driveway of a quaint-looking home on the outskirts of Kichijoji, the two occupants were having a conversation as the car was parked in front of the home in question as a certain red-headed honor student/aspiring gymnast looked up, saw the house, and spoke up.

"Ah, so I'm finally home. It's nice to be back. Also, thank you for driving me to and from that gymnastics meet, Coach Hiraguchi. I appreciate your time and consideration." Kasumi said to her coach while bowing politely to her as her coach chuckled and spoke up.

"It was my pleasure, Yoshizawa-san. And let me just say right now how proud I am of you. Not only did you come with me to this gymnastics meet with no complaint, you even soldiered through the long drive and even found the strength to get 1st place. I'm so proud of you right now. Now, go on inside and tell your parents the good news. And maybe even that boyfriend of yours? I'm sure you miss him a lot. So don't let me keep you waiting.

And don't worry about your exams. I'll drive them over to Shujin and drop them off for you. Just go spend this time with your family, and enjoy your holidays. Since I probably won't see you before then, Merry Christmas!" Kasumi's coach said to Kasumi, who nodded as she got out, bowed, and headed inside, first place trophy in hand. After opening the front door, Kasumi walked into her house and smiled as she closed the door behind her, eventually calling out as she spoke up.

"Hello? Anyone home in here? I'm home!" Kasumi called out, hoping her parents weren't asleep with how late she'd gotten home. Luckily for her, her dad was awake, having been sitting on the chair in the living room. At that point, Kasumi's father, a man of similar height to Kasumi, and who had greyish-black hair with brown piercing eyes that were hidden behind the red-framed glasses that Kasumi and Ren had bought him, smiled at Kasumi as he spoke up, crossing his arms over his chest. Kasumi smiled as she took in the simple black T-shirt and jeans her dad was wearing as he spoke.

"Ah, sweetheart! You're home from your gymnastics meet. Welcome home. How'd it go?" Kasumi's dad asked her as she smiled and spoke up.

"It went great, Dad! I have the proof right here!" Kasumi said happily as she showed him the first place trophy. Kasumi's dad smiled happily as he hugged her and spoke up.

"Wow, that's great, sweetheart! I knew you could do it! I'm so proud of you! Wait until your mom hears the good news!" Kasumi's dad said as he turned towards the hallway and called out.

"Hey, Nako! Our daughter's home from her gymnastics meet! Come see!" Kasumi's dad called towards the room he and Kasumi's mother shared. A short time later, Kasumi's mother, Nako, or Minako as her full first name happened to be, though Kasumi's dad often calls her Nako for short, much like her mom often calls him Souji for short despite his actual name being Shinichi, came into the living room.

Once there, Minako wasted no time in looking at Kasumi through her striking red eyes, eyes that Kasumi and her sister Sumire both had inherited from her, while smiling as she crossed her arms over her modest but pronounced chest as she spoke up. While she did, Kasumi took in the sight of the form-fitting silky blue nightgown her mother wore as her pajamas that night, smiling at how her mother still had her dark-red, almost crimson, hair pulled into a ponytail.

Aside from looking a bit older than either of her daughters, Minako looked very much the spitting image of both Kasumi and Sumire, even though she had unblemished skin, much like her daughter Sumire. At that point, Kasumi listened attentively to her mom.

"Oh, wow! You won? That's so incredible, dear! I'm so proud of you right now! And I know your sister's smiling down on you right now from above. You did great, honey!" Minako said happily as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Aw, it wasn't that big of a deal. I just won a meet, that's all. Maybe now the school will get off my back about producing results. But never mind that. I just want to worry about the holidays, and being able to spend them with you as well as with Ren." Kasumi said honestly as her mom and dad smiled, the former speaking up again.

"Ah yes, that amazing boyfriend of yours. Other than his name, you've not said that much about him yet, have you dear? Maybe if he doesn't have plans, you can invite him over for at least dinner on Christmas Eve so we can meet him? Maybe even let him remain here overnight if he wishes? Granted, he might have plans with his family that night. And if so, we understand. But I figured I could at least ask." Minako said as Kasumi winced and spoke up.

"To tell you the truth, Mom? I don't know if he has plans or not. I didn't get to ask him before I left. And as far as I know, he might not. After all, his parents live in another town. He and his younger brother Kusa only live here because he was sent out here to serve a year's probation for a crime he was falsely convicted of. But I'll let him be the one to give you the details, since it's kind of a long and complicated story. Suffice it to say, a very powerful man framed him for assault.

And because of it, Ren's had to go through all sorts of problems. At least, up until recently, he had his younger brother with him to give him support. But said younger brother was recently caught in a trap set by one of Ren's enemies and taken from him. All that's known right now is that he seems to be alive, albeit missing. So I can ask if he has plans, but I wouldn't think he does?

Granted, he could've made plans to spend time with his guardian, who runs the Leblanc Curry and Coffee cafe in Yongen-Jaya. Sakura-san and his daughter Futaba are rather close to Ren. Almost so much so that Ren might think of them as a sort of second family. Granted, that may or may not be because Futaba is his little brother's girlfriend. That said, I'll ask him and pass your invitation along. But that depends on if I get to see him before Christmas Eve. But it's still two days before that, technically." Kasumi said as her parents nodded and her father spoke up.

"True. Well, for now, go on into the kitchen and I'm sure your mom will whip you up something to eat real quick so you can eat, clean up a bit, and maybe go to bed. Since I imagine you're probably tired out, both from your trip and from the gymnastics meet you went through. But we can talk more about your boyfriend over food if you want?" Shinichi said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Thanks, Dad. But I think for now, I just want to eat, have a bath, and get some sleep. I can try reaching out to him tomorrow if I think of it." Kasumi said as her parents nodded, after which her mom made dinner which Kasumi ate before having a bath and heading to bed for the night, her dreams pleasant ones filled with her and Ren spending time together being happy...

(Meanwhile, back at Leblanc, with Ren and Morgana)

After Ren changed into his pajamas, his phone went off, making Ren frown as he reached for it, blinking as he saw it was a private chat from Mishima. Curious, he opened it to read it.

"Something's not right. The Phantom Aficionado Website isn't busy at all, despite the recent news about Shido. This doesn't make sense." Mishima sent as Ren sent a response.

"Oh? Why do you say that, Mishima-kun?" Ren sent as Mishima sent a response.

"I mean, think about it! Masayoshi Shido got taken down! People should be posting comments left and right about this! The silence makes no sense at all! Is it because it hasn't made the news? Ugh, it's so obvious that the Phantom Thieves are responsible though, Amamiya-kun! I'll keep rooting for you guys and watching the Phan-Site!" Mishima sent as Ren nodded and put his phone away before laying down with Morgana for the night...

(The next day, in the Accessway hideout with Yusuke, Haru, Futaba, Makoto, Ryuji, Morgana, Ren, and Ann)

As the group leaned on a railway to watch the news, every headline was talking about Masayoshi Shido, and how he won the election by a landslide margin. Ren sighed as he heard this, privately glad that Kasumi wasn't home from her meet yet, since she might be disappointed to see this. At that point, the group heard the newscaster speak, frowning as they heard what the newscaster had to say.

"And there, they announced the poor health of their leader, Masayoshi Shido. As such, the special Diet session was postponed, along with Shido's inauguration as prime minister." The newscaster said as Makoto frowned at this and spoke up.

"What? Postponed?" Makoto said in shock as Ryuji frowned and spoke up while gently wrapping an arm around his girlfriend's waist comfortingly.

"Truth, babe! They shouldn't be postponing this! They should be firing him!" Ryuji said as Ann nodded and spoke up.

"For real! And wait, 'poor health'?" Ann said as Makoto frowned and spoke up.

"I don't get it! This is completely different from what my sister told us before." Makoto said as a languid man spoke up nearby, talking to his friend.

"I heard he barely slept during the election campaign. I don't blame him." The languid man said as his friend, a worried man, spoke up.

"He's not going to step down now, is he? Will this country be fine without Shido?" The worried man asked as Yusuke frowned at this and spoke up.

"I don't believe this! How can people still believe in him?" Yusuke asked while frowning. Ann then blinked as she spoke up while looking at her phone.

"Wait, what the heck!?" Ann said as the others turned to face her as she spoke up.

"Sorry. But according to this article, the Phantom Thieves are being treated like, well, like they never existed!" Ann said as the others gasped and looked at this on their own phones After a bit, Morgana blinked and spoke up.

"Oh my goodness! If this is true, that's not good!" Morgana said as the others nodded as Haru spoke up while reading from the article on her phone.

"Agreed, Morgana-chan. And from what I'm seeing, this says 'No link among the 'change of heart' incidents, only coincidental psychiatric disorders that are unrelated. The Phantom Thieves only used those rumors to their advantage', and continues in that vein for a while." Haru said as Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"Gah! This is preposterous, and poppycock besides! Who would believe such things?" Yusuke said as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"Agreed, Inari. Not only is this absurd, but it takes Akechi and Kusa's sacrifices and slaps them right in the face with them. But at the same time, the person saying this is a famous researcher, so that makes it hard to dispute. And even the ministry is saying that's how they determined the situation too. Man, this sucks." Futaba said as a carefree man spoke up to his friend nearby.

"When's Shido gonna make a comeback?" The carefree man said as his friend, a bombastic man, spoke up.

"Honestly, I don't think anyone else but Shido can handle times like these." The bombastic man said as the group frowned while Haru spoke up.

"What's going on? No matter how you look at it, this isn't normal." Haru said as Morgana nodded and spoke up from inside Ren's bag.

"Yeah, no kidding. It's as if the people in reality have become distorted somehow. Honestly, what's happening here worries me. But the only thing we can do right now is wait and see what happens, unfortunately. And fill Kasumi in on what she missed later when we see her next." Morgana said as the group nodded...

(Meanwhile in the office of the former SIU Director, with Sae and two other figures)

"What do you mean I can't question him at this point!?" Sae asked the two figures standing across from her. The figure in a lab coat spoke up.

"Exactly what we just said. Mister Shido is in an extremely unstable state. I can't allow you to get in contact with him. He may officially have to undergo a psychiatric evaluation at this rate." The figure in a lab coat said as Sae frowned at this and spoke up.

"We're at the cusp of making a case! Do you know how much we've gone through to get this far?" Sae asked the figure in a lab coat as he spoke up once more.

"I'm sorry, but I'm just doing my job as a doctor." The figure in a lab coat said as the other figure spoke up, the badge around his neck identifying him as the 'Proxy SIU Director', or Sae's new boss.

"Even if Shido was behind it, do you plan on convicting a central figure behind such a historical change?" The Proxy SIU Director said as Sae scoffed and spoke up.

"What? Don't be ridiculous! This is a country governed by law. You still want to protect him, even though you know what happened to the man previously at your post!?" Sae asked as the Proxy SIU Director huffed and spoke up.

"That's irrelevant, Niijima! So, you plan on taking the head of the nation to court? You need to take a break, Niijima. I'm taking you off this case, especially since it's rumored you have ties to the Phantom Thieves." the Proxy SIU Director said as Sae gasped at this and spoke up.

"I'm sorry, WHAT!?" Sae asked in shock as the Proxy SIU Director spoke up.

"You heard me. Also, if I recall correctly, you still aren't married, are you? You'll be on leave for a long time. Why not look for a husband while you're at it?" The Proxy SIU Director said as he and the figure in a lab coat walked off, leaving a grumbling Sae alone as she grumbled to herself.

"Urgh. DAMMIT!" Sae yelled in annoyance as she stared out the window in frustration...

(A short time later, at Leblanc, with Futaba, Makoto, Ryuji, Haru, Ann, Yusuke, Morgana, Ren, and Sojiro)

"What!? The assembly of Shido's case is in danger!?" Yusuke said as Haru growled and spoke up.

"What sort of poppycock is this!? We know he doesn't need a psychiatric evaluation!" Haru said as Sojiro frowned and spoke up.

"As much as this sounds like horse shit, to borrow a term from Kusa, I think it's plain to see that his lackeys must've pressured the others around him. It means there's far more people who'd be in trouble if the truth came out than we imagined." Sojiro said as Ann frowned and spoke up.

"For real! Isn't there anything we can do?" Ann asked as Makoto spoke up with a slight frown.

"I don't think so. Sis said the assembly of a case may be possible, IF the general public wants Shido held accountable for his actions. But even that chance has been destroyed with the manipulation of the mass media. They made it clear that the argument itself was 'occult', even claiming that it never happened." Makoto said as Sojiro sighed and spoke up.

"I agree. It's totally messed up. But like it or not, as a result, the Phantom Thieves are still labeled as criminals, even after everything that's happened." Sojiro said as Futaba frowned and spoke up.

"True. I get the sense that Kusa would be most frustrated if he were here right now. But that said, it's a storm of criticisms online too. People are saying to catch the remnants and execute them swiftly and without remorse." Futaba said as Ann spoke up in a mix of shock and sadness.

"Wow, this is crazy, you guys." Ann said as Makoto frowned and spoke up.

"I agree. And Futaba, I know you miss Kusa-kun, but for now, there's not much we can do for him. At any rate, let's wait for my sister. She should be arriving here soon." Makoto said as Ryuji growled and slammed his fist on the table in front of him angrily as he spoke up.

"GAH! DAMMIT! Everyone's being tricked so easily! Why the hell did we risk our lives then!? And why did both Kusa and Akechi literally put their lives on the line so we could change Shido's heart if it wasn't going to mean much in the end?" Ryuji snarled angrily as Yusuke nodded and frowned while he spoke up.

"Agreed, Ryuji. At this point, it feels like we're massively disrespecting our fallen comrades with our failure to ensure Shido is held accountable. Moreover, if Shido isn't judged by the law, everything we've done will be treated as if it never happened." Yusuke said as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"Agreed. And to think, they're accomplishing all of this by moving the country however they wish by controlling people's cognitions at will. At this point, this is no different than being inside a Palace, with the exception of Morgana not being in his Metaverse form." Makoto said as the door opened at that point and a contrite-looking Sae walked in and spoke up.

"Apologies for my tardiness. First of all, let me say that I'm sorry. I gathered the best of the best and fought for a case with all of my might, but as Makoto must've told you, it was denied. At this rate, it won't just end with Shido's innocence. This trend will continue spiraling down. Worse, there's even the possibility that crimes using the Metaverse will advance onto a national scale. But, even with that being said, that's not what I'm here to tell you.

We're all in danger because we know the truth. And not just those of us in this room. Both Amamiya-kun the younger and Akechi-kun, if they're both still alive, are in danger as well, due to their known connections to us. And even Amamiya-kun the elder's girlfriend might well be in danger, since she was likely recognized on that broadcast you all did the other day. Not only that, but it's only a matter of time before we're all apprehended. It wouldn't be odd if they were to charge in now." Sae said as Ryuji frowned at this and spoke up.

"FOR REAL!? This makes no effin' sense to me." Ryuji said as Makoto gasped and spoke up.

"Sis, are you sure? And don't feel bad. You did the best you could." Makoto said as Sae nodded sadly and spoke up.

"I am sure. I'm sorry to say it, but there's nothing more I can do with my resources to assist you. That's why, as painful as this is for me, I want to ask for your help. I wondered if there was any way you could do something one last time. I know full well that I'm in no position to ask this of you." Sae said humbly as Ann spoke up with a frown.

"Don't worry about it, Prosecutor Niijima. That doesn't matter to us! So, what are we gonna do? Should we change the hearts of all Shido's followers?" Ann asked as Makoto shook her head and spoke up.

"While that is a good idea Ann, it's not a practical one. For starters, Futaba is just one person. So even if we were to ask her to research all of them, it'd take time that we might very realistically not have right now." Makoto said as Futaba sighed sadly and spoke up.

"Makoto's right. And not only that, but there's too little information to go on for me to really be able to do a good search." Futaba said regretfully as Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"This is frustrating. We can only target individuals, not large groups. Even when we took down Medjed, we only pulled that off with Futaba's help. Are we no match against the national power?" Yusuke asked as the others all got somber looks and looked down somberly. After a bit of awkward silence, Morgana spoke up to break the silence, frowning as he spoke up.

"Not necessarily, Yusuke. As much as it might seem that way, there is one way we can stop Shido's followers from carrying out their plans. But that way is risky, since it involves Mementos." Morgana said as the rest of the group all turned to look at the not-cat as he kept speaking.

"Now that I have your attention, I'll explain. If we use Mementos, we might be able to do something." Morgana said as Ryuji spoke up.

"For real? Is there something we can do there?" Ryuji asked as Morgana nodded and spoke up.

"Correct. Like I told you guys before, Mementos is the Palace of the general public. It's the source of all distortions, and is maintained by the 'collective unconsciousness'." Morgana said as Makoto blinked in shock and spoke up.

"Wait, hold on. Do you mean that there's a Treasure even in Mementos!? And if we go after that-" Makoto said as Morgana cut her off mid-sentence by speaking up.

"Yes, we could collapse Mementos. The collapse of Mementos should affect the public as a whole. The state of society would change too. If everyone's hearts grow to hold Shido responsible for his actions, things might start to go our way. However, this plan isn't without its share of risk." Morgana said as Yusuke spoke up.

"I see. So you want us to steal the Treasure of Mementos? That's a bold plan, but an interesting one." Yusuke said as Ryuji grinned and got to his feet.

"Heh, sounds good to me!" Ryuji said as Morgana frowned at this and spoke up.

"I respect that enthusiasm, Ryuji. BUT! If we're gonna do this, there are a few things you all need to realize. To begin with, why does such an abstract thing as human cognition exist as another, substantial world? To be frank, the reason for that is most likely sleeping within Mementos. And if we seize the Treasure there, we'll be destroying that, you know." Morgana said as Ryuji spoke up with a frown.

"True, but I don't see where you're goin' with this." Ryuji said as Morgana spoke up.

"Let me finish, please! As I was saying, if we seize the Treasure of Mementos, not only will Mementos itself collapse, but the very appearance of human cognition will lose substance, so you can't sneak into people's Palaces anymore! So if other criminals appear, you won't be able to steal their Treasure and change their hearts. Not only that, but if I'm right, it's entirely possible that the reason we've not yet found either Akechi OR Kusa is because one or both of them might well be not only alive, but also trapped inside of the Metaverse somewhere. And if that is the case, should we collapse Mementos, we run the very real chance that we strand them in the Metaverse forever.

After all, if we succeed, it will mean the end of our powers. It means, more simply put, the Phantom Thieves will be going out of business. And not only that, but we might be giving up any chance we have of ever rescuing Kusa and/or Akechi if we collapse Mementos. So that's a decision that cannot be made lightly." Morgana said as the others gasped at this as Haru spoke up.

"Oh! So from what you're saying, if we succeed, we'll have to discard this way of life, marking the end of an era." Haru said as Futaba gasped and spoke up in horror.

"No! So if we do this, we can save the world, BUT we potentially give up any chance we might have of saving Kusa!?" Futaba said in a strangled tone that had a hint of mixed sadness and frustration in it. At that point, Ann stood up and frowned as she spoke up.

"I'm sorry, Futaba. But I think we need to do this, no matter the risks. I mean, we're the group who's reforming society, right? And I have the feeling that Kusa wouldn't want us to give up a chance to do the right thing just to save him." Ann said as Morgana frowned and turned to Ren as he spoke up.

"Ren, this is probably going to be really callous of me to ask. But, what do you think, as our leader? Keep in mind, all of us, even those of us stranded in the Metaverse, will lose our powers if Mementos is erased. Knowing this, will you still do it?" Morgana asked Ren, who sighed as he spoke up, a grim look on his face as he spoke.

"Honestly? I hate that you're asking me this. But I agree with Ann. As much as I want to save my little brother if I can, I know he'd prefer that we save the world. Kusa wouldn't want us to be selfish and put his well-being over that of the general populace. So as much as it kills me to say this, I think we have to do this, like it or not. And hopefully, we can manage to find a way to save him, even after Mementos collapses." Ren said reluctantly, not looking at what he was sure was a look of betrayal on Futaba's face as he stared at Morgana, who blinked and spoke up.

"I'll be honest, Ren. I'm surprised to hear that from you. But if you feel that way, I respect it. I see. All right. I feel bad for Futaba and for Kusa, but I agree this is for the best. That said, it seems there are no objections." Morgana said as everyone, even a suitably somber Futaba, nodded agreement. Sae then spoke up.

"Not to be insensitive, but did you come up with a plan?" Sae asked as Makoto spoke up.

"It seems like it, Sis. Whether it succeeds or not is another story, though." Makoto said as Ryuji nodded and spoke up while looking Sae in the eyes as he spoke.

"Miss Prosecutor, I know we've been at odds before, but I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done for us to this point, as well as how well you've been taking care of Makoto. She deserves everything good she gets in life. That said, it looks like this is gonna be our last job." Ryuji said as Sae blinked and spoke up.

"Heh, I see that my sister picked a fine man to be her boyfriend, given what you just said. That being said, exactly what do you mean, last job?" Sae asked as Ren sighed and spoke up.

"Basically, we have a plan to stop our enemies from having their way. Unfortunately, to do that, our plan requires us to erase the Metaverse, also meaning we'd be basically stranding both Kusa and Akechi, assuming they're both still alive in the Metaverse somewhere, in their current locations without their powers. So it's a plan that will require a good bit of sacrifice on our part." Ren said grimly. Haru nodded as she spoke up.

"Ren-kun is correct. And once we accomplish our duty, we entrust the world to respectful adults. And THAT is our condition for accepting this job." Haru said as Sae sighed sadly and spoke up.

"Wow, that sounds rough, you guys. This is a 'deal' then, isn't it? That said, I must say, that's certainly a heavy condition. But, very well. I accept. I swear to make Masayoshi Shido stand and be tried in the court of law. Besides, I think everyone in this room knows by now that my pride won't allow me to be continually saved by you all without doing anything in return." Sae said as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"I believe you, Sis. We'll be counting on you." Makoto said as Sojiro sighed and spoke up.

"I won't pretend to understand what you're going through right now. But the important thing is that it looks like it's decided, then?" Sojiro asked as the group nodded as Ann turned to Ren as she spoke up.

"You're the leader, Ren, and this is officially our last mission. C'mon, say something!' Ann said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"We should be careful. Even if we succeed, there may still be a heavy price for us to pay afterwards. So we need to make sure we're ready to give our all when we go in there. I don't think it's inaccurate to say we need to be prepared to literally give everything we have on this mission. Hell, we should even be prepared to die trying if we have to. I feel that this is one mission we CANNOT afford to mess up.

Ideally, I would love for us to be able to do this and still be able to rescue our missing comrades afterwards, but I have to face reality here. The fact is, we might very well be sacrificing both Akechi and Kusa if we pull this off. And that truly breaks my heart to think about. However, I know that we don't have a choice if we're to ensure Shido's lackeys cannot continue to use the Metaverse for evil. As such, I think we can all agree when I say that we need to fix this country, for everyone's sake. And if we can save Kusa and Akechi as well? All the better." Ren said somberly. Futaba smirked as she spoke up.

"True, but we already said that before though!" Futaba said, pointedly not acknowledging the references to sacrificing Kusa and Akechi in Ren's words as Haru giggled and spoke up.

"Hee hee, that's fine. We're doing it for real this time, after all." Haru said as Morgana spoke up.

"True. We don't have much time, right? We should carry this out tomorrow. I know this is going to be a rough job for us, but I have faith we can pull this off! I'm counting on you guys! Let's get this done right, for everyone's sake! And no matter what happens, you better see it through!" Morgana said as the group nodded and dispersed for the evening. A short time later, Morgana spoke up as Ren stood upstairs in the attic.

"Well then! Tomorrow's the big battle, isn't it? Better get some serious rest." Morgana said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I will, but first I think I want to speak to Boss and get his opinions on a few things. But before that, how are you feeling?" Ren asked Morgana, who spoke up.

"Honestly? I'm a bit sad. This is our last heist, after all. It's hard to believe that our time together might be over soon. And to think, we've spent so much time together but it all went by in a flash, just like that. And now, it's time for what might very well be our final battle." Morgana said as Ren nodded and headed downstairs to see if Sojiro was there. As he did, he stopped to check the news on TV, just in time to hear the newscaster speak up.

"Christmas Eve is just around the corner, and everyone can feel the excitement in the air. The streets are full of people, and are illuminated with colored lighting as far as the eye can see. Not only that, but couples out with their children can be seen shopping for presents." The newscaster said as Morgana sighed and spoke up.

"Oh yeah, that's right. Tomorrow's Christmas Eve, huh Ren? I know you might have had plans for the occasion, but I'm afraid those will have to go by the wayside, since this mission is far more important. So the lead is all yours! The only present I want, aside from Kusa's safe return, is for our plan to succeed. I'll be looking forward to it." Morgana said as Ren nodded agreeably. He then walked over to Sojiro and spoke up.

"Hey, Boss. Didn't think you'd still be here. You got a minute? I wanted your opinion on some things." Ren said as Sojiro smiled and spoke up.

"Sure thing, Ren. I got time for you. But first, I know you haven't been going to school much recently, but how'd your exams go?" Sojiro asked as Ren spoke up.

"Far as I can tell, they went perfectly. Why do you ask?" Ren asked Sojiro, who smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, is that so? Heh, not bad for skipping so much. That being said, take this." Sojiro said as he handed Ren a 'Boss Undies' accessory, which Ren pocketed as Sojiro kept speaking. *2*

"I know this might be confusing to you, but you need to remember this much. A man just needs to produce results when it counts. I picked this out for you to use when the time is right. So make it count. Oh, and what did you want my opinion on?" Sojiro asked Ren, who spoke up.

"Firstly, what do you make of our current predicament? Namely, the part where we have to basically sacrifice our friends to save the world? Who'd have guessed we'd end up in that position? Also, should I try to call Kasumi and see if she's home yet from her gymnastics meet, since it's almost Christmas Eve?" Ren asked as Sojiro blinked and spoke up.

"Oh, that reminds me! Your girlfriend called while you were out with the others watching the news. She said she got home late last night from that gymnastics meet you mentioned, and that she wanted to talk to you when you got a chance. So maybe you can call her right now, see if she's awake? And if her parents are okay with it, I don't mind if you invite her here to spend time with you tonight?

After all, if tomorrow really is your last battle, you should make the most of the time you have with your girl while you still can. And to what you asked, I can't say I envy you. For what it's worth though, I agree that Kusa wouldn't want you guys to put him above the well being of the populace." Sojiro said wisely as Ren nodded and pulled out his phone and dialed Kasumi's number, listening as it rang a few times before a very familiar voice answered the phone.

"Hello? Kasumi speaking." Kasumi said as she answered her phone. Ren smiled as he spoke up.

"Hey, glad I caught you while you were still awake, Sumi. Sorry I'm calling you so late, but I only just got your message from Boss. I was out with the others watching the news. Needless to say, you missed quite a lot. But before all that, I wanted to ask you if you were home from your gymnastics meet? Boss said you were, but I wanted to be sure that was true, just in case. Also, I miss hearing that voice of yours, Sumi." Ren said as Kasumi smiled on her end and spoke up.

"Aww, that's sweet of you to say, Ren! And yes, I'm home! I got home late last night, to be exact. And to answer the other question you likely were about to ask, no I'm not doing anything at the moment. But my parents did want me to ask you if you happened to have plans tomorrow for Christmas Eve. Apparently, if you don't, I'm to invite you to come have dinner with us at my house, so that my mom and dad can meet you and you can apparently spend Christmas with us. But from what you just said, it sounds like we might have a mission to deal with tomorrow." Kasumi said as Ren spoke up.

"Sadly, that's correct. In a nutshell, Shido's lackeys are trying to bar us from ensuring he's held responsible for his actions. And now, we get the fun job of going into Mementos tomorrow, on Christmas Eve no less, to try and seize the Treasure of Mementos. And to make matters worse? If we succeed, not only will our powers go away due to Mementos collapsing, but we also run the risk of leaving Akechi and Kusa stranded in the Metaverse if they're there at the moment.

So we could be sacrificing our missing comrades to save the world. And as if that wasn't enough, I know Kusa would want us to do the right thing, regardless of the consequences it has for him. But, if we can somehow pull all that off and make it home in one piece? I actually have no plans to speak of after that, aside from if Boss and Futaba want me to spend time with them. But I think if I explain that you want me to spend time with you for the holiday, they'll understand. Why do you ask?" Ren replied as Kasumi frowned and spoke up.

"Are you serious!? We have to basically choose between saving the world and being able to save our missing comrades!? That's kinda unfair, isn't it!? But it sounds like you're agreeable to spending Christmas Eve with me and my parents then? I'm guessing you were calling about something to do with tonight. though?" Kasumi said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"That's correct. I was going to see if you'd be agreeable to coming over to Leblanc, with your parents' permission of course, and having dinner with me, and possibly Boss and Futaba if I can get them to join us, so I can at least have this one night to spend with the people closest to me. And if I'm being honest? I miss having you close to me." Ren said, his face flushing slightly at his admission, but smiling at the sound of Kasumi giggling on the other end while she spoke up.

"Hee hee, I thought that might be it, Ren. I'll have to ask my parents first, but I bet if I tell them that you agreed to their invitation, provided I agree to your invitation for tonight as a trade-off, they should be agreeable to me coming over for both dinner and to spend the night with you. But let me go check with them. Hold on." Kasumi said as Ren nodded, patiently waiting for a few minutes, watching TV as he waited. After a bit, he heard Kasumi's voice again.

"Okay, I'm back! My mom and dad said that was fine! They even offered to drop me off at Leblanc so I didn't have to walk. So I guess I'll get myself a change of clothes and meet you there in a little bit?" Kasumi said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Sounds great to me, Sumi. I look forward to seeing you when you get here. I love you. And when you get here, maybe you can tell me how you did at your gymnastics meet?" Ren said happily as Kasumi blinked and spoke up.

"Oh, right! I never did tell you how that went, did I? I'll be sure to share it with you all when I get there! See you soon, Ren! Love you too!" Kasumi said as she hung up the phone and Ren did the same, smiling as he went to check the fridge for curry ingredients. Fortunately for him, there were still leftover ingredients in the fridge. Morgana smiled on seeing this as he spoke up.

"Oh, nice! Hey, there are some leftover curry ingredients here!" Morgana said as Ren nodded before turning to Sojiro and speaking up.

"Hey, Boss? Would you be offended if I asked to use the stove to cook some curry for us tonight? I have no problems making enough for you and Futaba as well, if you want to join me and Kasumi, since her parents gave the okay for her to come and both have dinner with me and to spend the night tonight. Which is good, since this saves me having to summon her here tomorrow for the mission. So can I use the kitchen to make curry?" Ren asked Sojiro. Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"You know I'm not going to object to you making dinner for me, Ren. As for Futaba, I make no promises. If I can coax her into coming, we'll be over for food. If not, I'll be back over soon regardless. But before I go, promise me you'll be careful with the stove, all right?" Sojiro asked as Ren nodded agreeably as Sojiro left. After a bit, Ren was happily stirring a pot of curry with a ladle, while Morgana smirked as he watched from on the counter, standing eagerly on his back legs as he did so.

At that point, the door opened up and Kasumi walked in, an eager smile on her face as she smelled the curry cooking, having a seat at the counter next to Morgana, who she patted on the head gently as she spoke up.

"Hi, Ren! And hello, Morgana. I've missed you both while I was away." Kasumi said as Ren turned to face Kasumi after stirring the pot once more before he spoke up.

"Hey, Sumi! Glad to see you made it! I'm just making dinner now. Boss said he'd try to coax Futaba into joining us, but he made no promises on if he'd succeed or not. But he said he would join us for sure." Ren said as Kasumi spoke up with a smile.

"Sounds good to me, Ren. I always enjoy hearing Sakura-san's commentary on your food." Kasumi said happily. Morgana then spoke up.

"As much fun as seeing you two be happy like this is, what was that brown stuff you added, Ren?" Morgana asked, confusing Kasumi, who spoke up.

"Brown stuff?" Kasumi asked Morgana, causing Sojiro to chuckle at the question as he and a sulky looking Futaba walked in, though she quickly smiled on seeing Kasumi at the counter, eagerly walking over to wrap her fellow red-head in a hug, happy to see her. Sojiro then spoke up.

"Is the brown stuff what I think it is? If so, let me explain! That brown stuff is, in fact, chocolate! Chocolate, in small amounts, can be added to curry to enhance spices, giving it a deep, rich flavor. But be careful not to add too much, though. In excess amounts, chocolate will destroy the delicately kept flavor balance of the curry." Sojiro said as Morgana blinked at this and spoke up.

"Wow, chocolate in curry? Wait, wouldn't that make it taste super sweet!?" Morgana asked as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"You'd think that Morgana, but no. I know of non-sweetened chocolates, as well as dark chocolate, which doesn't taste as sweet but has a more rich flavor to it. And I've heard that it has loads of health benefits for those that eat it in small amounts." Ren said as Kasumi nodded and spoke up.

"That's true, Ren. I can confirm this is the case. My sister, when she was alive, loved chocolate. And she always made sure to eat just the right amounts of it to keep it healthy, hence why she always stayed in shape and never let herself go even while enjoying her chocolate." Kasumi said as Futaba smirked and spoke up.

"Heh, that's true. But what's to say that she didn't end up addicted to it at some point? After all, they say chocolate can be quite addictive if you're not careful." Futaba said as Kasumi smirked and spoke up.

"That's rich, coming from the girl whose boyfriend is one of the biggest chocolate addicts to ever step foot inside of Leblanc." Kasumi teased Futaba playfully, making Futaba frown and speak up.

"Oh, really? Is that right? You do realize this means war, right?" Futaba said, before smirking as she playfully tackled Kasumi off the stool she was on, carefully scooping her up as the two rolled around on the ground having a tickle fight, making Sojiro laugh and snap a couple discreet photos of the two. Even Ren smiled as he watched the two females on the ground bonding. Ren then spoke up with a smirk.

"Heh, should I serve you your plates on the ground, ladies? Or will you be able to get up and eat in a booth like the rest of us?" Ren said teasingly, making both Futaba and Kasumi giggle as the latter spoke up.

"We'll get up when it's time to eat. For now, we're just blowing some steam off, as the saying goes." Kasumi said as Futaba nodded, smiling as she then helped Kasumi to her feet and getting up into a stool next to Kasumi, who resumed her place in the stool next to Morgana, who obliviously watched Ren work, speaking up without even noticing anything around him.

"Looking good there, Ren! I gotta say though, you always throw it all together with such gusto. Could it be that the secret ingredient is, at least partially, confidence?" Morgana said as Ren laughed before shrugging as his Guts got a slight, if unneeded, boost. At that point, Morgana smiled and spoke up.

"Nice! The curry's smelling good from in here, Ren! This'll definitely be a hit for sure. Mwehehe!" Morgana said as Futaba lightly patted the not-cat on the head and spoke up.

"Heh, silly Morgana. That's my line. But you're not wrong in what you said." Futaba said as Kasumi nodded and spoke up.

"Agreed. Not only is Ren really handsome and kind, but he can also cook too!? I think I found myself a definite keeper here! Hee hee!" Kasumi said with a giggle as Ren smiled at the sound of his girlfriend's amusement while he scooped the finished curry onto plates, setting some in front of Sojiro, Futaba, and Kasumi, before setting another in front of a smiling Morgana before setting the last plate down in front of himself, proceeding to smile with Kasumi as the two spoke up with Futaba in unison.

"THANK YOU FOR THE FOOD!" Ren, Kasumi, and Futaba said as one before digging into the curry with Sojiro and Morgana, the latter of whom smirked as he looked at Ren and spoke up.

"Heh, you look awfully proud of yourself, Ren. Maybe it's because of the smiling redhead hanging off your arm right now, but either way, I like this look on you." Morgana said as Ren spoke up while acquiring 2 'Master Curry' items for his efforts, frowning as he spoke up.

"You hush, Morgana! I'm allowed to be happy that my girlfriend is enjoying my cooking! And if I'm being honest, the people I consider as good as a second family also are enjoying my cooking, so of course I'm proud of myself. Anyone would be if they made these three smile like they're smiling now." Ren said happily as Kasumi nodded. After the meal was done, and the plates were cleaned, Morgana spoke up.

"Well then, as much as this is fun, it's getting kinda late. It's about time for most of us to start hitting the hay, since we've got a big day tomorrow." Morgana said as Sojiro nodded, scooping up a sleeping Futaba and carrying her home while Ren and Kasumi headed upstairs with Morgana to get comfortable for the night, Ren taking the opportunity to fill in Kasumi on the situation as they changed. Kasumi agreed to go with the group to Mementos, knowing they needed all the help they could get. After a bit, Ren and Kasumi cuddled up together on Ren's bed as Morgana hopped up on the bed and looked at Ren before speaking up.

"Um, hey." Morgana said as Ren spoke up while smiling at the not-cat.

"What's up, Morgana?" Ren said as Morgana spoke up uneasily.

"So the thing is-Actually, never mind. You must be tired." Morgana said as Ren smiled and spoke up, at the same time that Kasumi smiled at the not-cat.

"We're not that tired at all, honestly. So what's up, Morgana?" Ren asked. Morgana nodded and spoke up.

"Well, if you say so. Honestly, to tell you the truth, Ren? You're amazing. There's definitely something special about you. You dodge everything the enemies throw at you like it's your destiny. At first, I just thought you were going to be a useful tool for me, yet that's not the case now. Not only that, but now this is where I belong." Morgana said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That's good. I'm glad you feel that way, Morgana. As far as I'm concerned, and I know Kusa would agree with this if he were here, this is just as much your home as it is mine and Kusa's, even if we're both only here for the duration of my probation. But regardless, you'll always have a place with me and Kusa. So, naturally, I wouldn't mind it if you wanted to stay here forever." Ren said kindly to Morgana as Kasumi smiled and spoke up while gently hugging the not-cat as she pressed a gentle but tender kiss to the top of Morgana's head as she spoke up.

"What Ren said. I might not have known you as long as Ren and Kusa have, but you've already become a very important figure to me, Morgana-senpai. Regardless of your true form, you've taught me a lot in the short time we've known one another, and you will forever have my respect and love for that. So never doubt that both Ren and I are here for you, now and always." Kasumi said as Morgana smiled at Kasumi, gently rubbing his head on Kasumi's palm as he spoke up.

"Thank you, Kasumi. That means a lot to me. And Ren, aren't you and Kusa only going to be here for a year, as you said before? Still, regardless of the truth of that, it makes me happy to hear that. But to be honest, it's not like me to say all that embarrassing stuff. But still, I'm around family, so I think it's fine. For tonight, at least. Let's do our best tomorrow, Ren. Not just to save the world, but to try and hopefully be able to save our brother!" Morgana said as Ren smiled at the reference to Kusa as he felt that he could sense Morgana's strong trust in both himself and Kasumi. At that point, the expected voice spoke up in his head.

"I am thou, thou art I...Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath. Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion and break the yoke of thy heart. Thou hast awakened to the ultimate secret of the Magician, granting thee infinite power..." Ren heard in his head as the 'Magician' card appeared in his mind's eye for the first time in a while, the 'IX' underneath the word 'Magician' turning into an 'X' to signify that his Magician Confidant link with Morgana had reached Rank 10, also noted on the card as 'MAX Rank'.

From the maxed-out bond rank, Morgana awoke to the power of 'Second Awakening', making it so that like Kusa, Ann, Ryuji, Yusuke, and Futaba before him, his Persona was transformed into a mythological trickster. Furthermore, the words 'FUSION UNLOCKED' appeared on-screen in front of the maxed-out 'Magician' card, making Ren and Kasumi's phones, along with the rest of the group's phones, ping with the notification that Ren could now fuse 'Futsunushi', or the strongest Persona of the Magician arcana.

After that, the shot cut to the inside of Morgana's mind, where 'Zorro' appeared and was consumed in a burst of blue light, and when the light receded, in Zorro's place stood a much skinnier being that wore a mainly blue bodysuit with golden shoulder pads that were circular in shape, gold armbands, a gold staff that was similar to the type of staff Kusa wielded in battle, a red mask in the shape of sunglasses, and golden boots with huge blue wings. Morgana then spoke up.

"Wow, this is incredible! A new power burns within me!" Morgana said as the group's phones pinged once more to confirm that Morgana's 'Zorro' Persona had transformed into 'Mercurius', making it so that as of that moment, only Ren, Makoto, Haru, and Kasumi lacked evolved Personas, along with technically Akechi, though one could argue that Loki was considered an evolved Persona given how he awakened. *3*

After that, the shot cut to Mercurius' skill screen, showing that his evolution had allowed him to learn the passive skill 'Evade Elec', which Morgana had Mercurius acquire in place of 'Masukunda', which he rarely if ever used. Afterwards, Morgana spoke up once more.

"Well, as much fun as that was, we should rest in preparation for tomorrow. If you guys want, I can go curl up on the sofa so you can have the bed for yourselves tonight." Morgana said as Kasumi smiled and spoke up.

"Don't be silly, Morgana-senpai! We don't mind you sharing the bed with us! You're practically family to us, after all." Kasumi said kindly as Ren nodded his agreement as Morgana smiled and nodded, sprawling out cutely across the legs of Ren and Kasumi as he got comfortable. At that point, Ren felt his eyelids starting to get heavy. He then frowned when he realized he couldn't keep them open any longer. Kasumi smiled as she saw Ren fall asleep, giggling quietly as she spoke up.

"Good night, Ren. Sleep well, my love. I love you." Kasumi said as she gently kissed Ren on the cheek before smiling as she happily laid down, laying her head on Ren's shoulder happily as she and Ren dozed off, Morgana not far behind in also dozing off for the night, even as he spoke up to himself, unaware of Kasumi listening to what he said.

"I don't get it. He's repelled such an ordeal, and this guy's still not being rewarded for it? If gods really do exist in this world, then they're being too hard on him, in my opinion." Morgana said as Kasumi smiled, nodding her agreement as the trio nodded off for the night...

(A short time later, in the Velvet Room, with Ren, Caroline, Justine, and Igor)

"Well, that was a fruitless delight, Inmate!" Caroline said scathingly as Justine nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed. We gave you words of praise this whole time, but we hereby take them all back!" Justine said as Igor spoke up.

"The source of what was hindering your rehabilitation this whole time. To think it would be the ignorant masses to which you tried to prove your integrity. Did they, themselves, not show elation for those who are unseen? Despite all that, they now say you do not exist. They toyed with you, yet none take responsibility. The distortion of man's world is endlessly deep, indeed. Fixing it may now be impossible, even with the appearance of a Trickster, sad as that is to say." Igor said as Caroline blinked and spoke up.

"M-Master?" Caroline asked as Justine quietly gasped at this as Igor kept speaking.

"It seems this is the limit of humanity, which is unfortunate." Igor said as Ren frowned and spoke up.

"What are you saying, Igor? We know things took a turn, but we've got a plan to try and fix what went wrong! Please don't give up on us." Ren said as Igor sadly shook his head and spoke up.

"I wish it were that simple, Trickster. But alas, it is not. You have failed, and as such, the time of ruin is nigh for you. And this ruin is one due to the distortion of man's own heart, from which none can escape, despite their best efforts." Igor said as Caroline gasped at this but said nothing as Ren frowned at this...

(The next morning, in the attic of Leblanc with Ren, Kasumi, and Morgana)

Ren yawned and stretched as he sat up while waking up, careful not to rouse the adorably sleeping red-head laying next to him, making Ren smile at how beautiful his girlfriend looked while asleep. Ren let himself take a brief moment to admire her before gently kissing her on the cheek as Morgana sat up and spoke up with a yawn.

"Ugh, morning Ren. Well, this is it. This is the last big heist for the Phantom Thieves. It's do or die. And to be honest? You, and everyone else on our team, you've all grown so much in the time we've all been together." Morgana said before shaking himself as he kept speaking.

"No. No, this is no time to get sentimental. We're going to end this with a bang! All right, let's go once you get Kasumi up!" Morgana said as Ren nodded, gently shaking Kasumi awake to tell her it was time to get ready for the mission, making her cutely pout, but nod, as she slowly woke up, and once she and Ren got dressed, the trio set out to gather the others for the trip into Mementos...

(At the train station, with Ren, Morgana, Kasumi, and Makoto)

"Good morning, Ren. Ugh. Well, it's finally time. You think it'll go well?" Makoto asked as Ren spoke up.

"To be honest? I don't know. But I know in my heart that it has to, for the sake of everyone." Ren said as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"Right. It's something only we can do. See you two at the usual place after school. I'll tell everyone to come." Makoto said as Ren nodded before he and Kasumi headed to school with Makoto...

(Later that morning, in the hallways of Shujin with Ren, Morgana, and Kasumi)

"Oh, our grades are out." Ren heard a nearby student say to her friends as he and Kasumi nodded, knowing their exam scores were likely posted. The female next to the student who'd previously spoken nodded and spoke up.

"How'd you do?" The female student asked as a nearby male student groaned and spoke up.

"Damn, that's not good. I'm dead." The male student said as another female student spoke up.

"Oh? Hey, look at that! Look who got the top score!" The female student said as Ren blinked, wondering what score he got. He smirked as he saw that for the third exam in a row, he was top of his class. He then turned to the first-years, where he frowned on seeing that Kusa wasn't on the list at all, presumably as a result of not showing up for exams. As a result, Kasumi had taken back the top spot in her class. Morgana smirked as he spoke up.

"HEY! That's amazing, you two! Everyone's gonna have their eyes on you now for sure!" Morgana said as Ren smirked, pumping a fist as his Charm got a generous, but unneeded, boost. Ren and Kasumi then headed to classes for the day, waiting for the school day to end before they met the others in Mementos...

(After school, in Mementos, with Fox, Skull, Queen, Joker, Mona, Sumi, Oracle, Noir, and Panther)

"Hey, check out the Nav." Fox said, his eyes wide as he spoke. The group looked at their Navs, Joker frowning as his showed an unfamiliar message. Panther gasped as she read it aloud.

"No way! This says, 'The door to the depths of Mementos has been opened. Beware, all who proceed therein.' Wait, does this mean what I think it does!?" Panther asked as the group nodded and Mona spoke up at that point.

"This is it, everyone. We're really gonna do this, right?" Mona asked as Panther nodded and spoke up.

"Of course we are!" Panther said as Skull frowned and spoke up.

"Why're you askin' now?" Skull asked as Mona frowned and spoke up.

"Well, to tell the truth? I-I just thought, what am I gonna do if you guys freak out and bail on me! We're going to erase Mementos, aren't we? Come on, let's go, you guys!" Mona said as he dashed off alone as Oracle smirked and spoke up.

"Mwehehe! Well, Mona sure seems hyped up!" Oracle said as Sumi nodded and spoke up.

"Well, to be fair, this IS potentially our last mission as a team, so Mona-senpai is probably anxious about making sure things go well, so we can go out on a high note. Also, he's probably trying not to think about the price we'll have to pay if we succeed at erasing Mementos. And honestly, I don't blame him." Sumi said as Oracle nodded, and everyone followed after Mona, aside from Noir and Panther, who lagged behind as the former spoke up.

"Say, Panther? Isn't Mona-chan behaving, well, a little odd?" Noir asked as Panther frowned and spoke up.

"Hm. You know, you're right, Noir." Panther said as Noir frowned and spoke up.

"Yeah, I suppose I am. I wonder if he knows something we don't? Ugh." Noir asked as Panther spoke up with a frown.

"Noir?" Panther asked as Noir smiled and spoke up.

"It's nothing, Panther. Don't worry about it. I shouldn't have brought that up. Shall we get going?" Noir asked as Panther nodded and the group followed after the others. Once Panther and Noir caught up to the others, they took a moment at the Mementos entrance to prepare themselves before they headed on to face what might very well be their final mission as Phantom Thieves...

END OF CHAPTER

A/N: And boom, another chapter done and dusted! Wow, this one took a minute to finish typing out! And in part, that's due to having to wait for a new charger to come in the mail for the laptop I'm using to type this chapter up. Suffice it to say, I made sure to buy some Switch chargers too, just so my little brother wouldn't have to use this laptop charger to charge his Switch, like he did with the other charger. Needless to say, it's not a good idea. But anyways, we're back in business now, so hopefully that'll sort that out for the foreseeable future so I can try to push ever closer to finishing this story!

Given that we're already at the start of the Mementos run for this arc, which is where the majority of this arc's actual plot happens, I'm going to estimate that tops, we're looking at another 2, maybe 3, chapters for this arc. So yeah, this will probably be the shortest arc of the story as a result. But this is good, since the next arc is the penultimate arc of this story, and where most of the real action goes down. So that's the arc I'm sure most of you want to see. But we have to finish this arc first, since it sets up parts of the next arc! So be patient until then!

And thanks to all those who support this story, even if nowadays it's mostly just in the form of story views, and the odd favorite and follow every now and again. I'm sure I'll still get reviews here and there too, but I fully expect them to be far and few between to be honest. So I'm not mad at all.

But anyways, if you want to support this fic, feel free to add it to your Favorite Stories list and/or your Story Alert list, so you can be aware when new chapters are posted! Also, feel free to leave comments in a review with your thoughts/feedback/constructive criticism/opinions on the story so far. Or even just PM me with your feedback. I appreciate the support either way! And until next chapter, sithlorde1988 out!

NOTES

*1* - I'd initially forgotten I made this note. But as the name implies, the 'Mana Blast' skill is a rare instance of a Colossal-tier skill. In this case, the literal description for Mana Blast reads as thus: 'Colossal Psy damage to 1 foe, with 25% of the damage turning into recovered SP'. However, to offset this SP recovery effect, the move has a staggering SP cost at a whopping 75 SP. Incidentally, this cost is slightly offset by Saruman possessing the trait 'Mage's Focus', making it so that the cost of both support and Psy skills is reduced by 25%. Hopefully, I didn't make Saruman TOO broken with that one skill and trait.

*2* - I'll be honest. Prior to typing this scene out recently, I actually was legit unaware you could get this item. Apparently, if you talk to Sojiro after taking the December exams, and say 'Perfectly' when he asks how your exams went, he gives you the 'Boss Undies', which is an accessory that gives whoever equips it the 'Endure' skill, letting them have a free auto-revive with 1 HP once per battle. However, as far as I know, only Joker can equip this accessory, so it's kinda redundant if you have a Persona with 'Endure' and/or 'Enduring Soul' already equipped. But it's still there to get if you want it, I guess.

*3* - I stand by what I said here. Even though he's not technically counted as such, the fact that he fuses with 'Robin Hood' to form Akechi's Tier 3 Persona, *REDACTED*, suggests to me that Loki is intended to be Akechi's Tier 2 Persona, even if he's counted as a separate Persona from Robin Hood, per the explanation that Akechi has two separate powers that he uses: one that let him assume the 'Detective Prince' guise he used when first joining the Phantom Thieves, and the other that lets him assume his true mantle of the Black Mask.

Granted, I had a reviewer once ask, way back when this story first started out, if I could free Akechi from Loki, but that's likely not gonna happen. If anything, Akechi and Loki will likelier be cleansed and redeemed, rather than being separated from one another. After all, if I did that, how would I set up Akechi getting *REDACTED* during *REDACTED*? No, for story reasons, I'm not going to free Akechi from Loki. Sorry to that reviewer, but sometimes things just happen that way.

CONFIDANT RANKS AS OF THE END OF CHAPTER 83

FOOL (Igor/Prison Master) - Rank 9

MAGICIAN (Morgana/Mona) - Rank MAX (10)

PRIESTESS (Makoto/Queen) - Rank 9

EMPRESS (Haru/Noir) - Rank 8

EMPEROR (Yusuke/Fox) - Rank MAX (10)

HIEROPHANT (Sojiro/Boss/Coffee Daddy) - Rank MAX (10)

LOVERS (Ann/Panther) - Rank MAX (10)

CHARIOT (Ryuji/Skull) - Rank MAX (10)

JUSTICE (Akechi/Crow/Black Mask) - Rank MAX (10)

HERMIT (Futaba/Oracle) - Rank MAX (10)

FORTUNE (Chihaya/Fortune Teller) - Rank 7

STRENGTH (Caroline and Justine/Twin Wardens) - Rank MAX (10)

HANGED-MAN (Iwai/Weapons Dealer) - Rank 7.5

DEATH (Takemi/Back-Alley Doctor) - Rank 8

TEMPERANCE (Kawakami/Becky) - Rank 8

DEVIL (Ohya) - Rank 6

TOWER (Shinya/The King/Skilled Gamer) - Rank 4

STAR (Hifumi) - Rank MAX (10)

MOON (Mishima) - Rank MAX (10)

SUN (Yoshida/Man Of The People) - Rank MAX (10)

JUDGEMENT (Sae/Prosecutor) - Rank MAX (10)

FAITH (Kasumi/Sumi) - Rank 5 **MAX**

COUNCILLOR (Maruki/Doc) - Rank MAX (10)

WORLD (Kusa/Draconis) - Rank MAX (10)

MAXED-OUT CONFIDANTS: MAGICIAN, EMPEROR, HIEROPHANT, LOVERS, CHARIOT, JUSTICE, HERMIT, STRENGTH, STAR, MOON, SUN, JUDGEMENT, COUNCILLOR, WORLD

CONFIDANTS LEFT TO MAX OUT: FOOL, PRIESTESS, EMPRESS, FORTUNE, HANGED-MAN, DEATH, TEMPERANCE, DEVIL, TOWER, FAITH