Heart of Justice: Chapter 30
6/9
"...And that is why we recruit sponsors to help make TV programs!" the PR woman said to the gathered class. "I'm sure you know about commercial breaks? That's actually our sponsor-related product placements! To sum things up, ratings are vitally important for a station's production funding..."
"Huh," Ryuji muttered, folding his arms as the PR woman continued talking, though clearly only out of obligation. "You followin' any'a this?" he asked, looking over at Ann and Kyoko.
"Not particularly. It's all things I already know," Kyoko replied, though it was evident to Ryuji she held no interest in the lecture, she had managed to maintain the neutral look she usually wore.
"I dunno how you do it, Kyoko. This is beyond boring!" Ryuji groaned.
"Shhh!" Kawakami hushed from nearly.
"...Knowing a demographic and when it is present is also important," the PR woman continued. "That's why you have soap opera reruns during the day, and alluring newswomen are broadcast at night!" the PR woman continued. "Thus, the scheduling department is where we decide what time we broadcast which program! I suppose you could say it's the place where the scheduling is determined..."
"Could this get any more obvious?" Ann sighed, yawning as she struggled to to continue standing.
"How much longer does this go?" Morgana asked, peering from Kyoko's school bag.
"I'll be honest... hopefully not much longer," Kyoko muttered, keeping her neutral expression though Ryuji and Ann noticed her impassive frown had deepened ever-so-slightly the longer the PR woman continued her lecture.
She was suddenly and roughly pushed aside as a suited man forced his way through the crowd to the PR woman.
"What is all this noise?! I can't focus with it going on!" the man protested angrily.
"Was that necessary?" Kyoko asked, nursing her shoulder.
"Shut up, kid! This doesn't concern you!" the man growled at her before returning his attention to the PR woman, who wilted under his angry glare.
"Hey, asshole! What's your problem?!" Ryuji snapped, but the man ignored him.
"Well...?" he asked the PR woman, scowling and folding his arms in disapproval.
The PR woman looked down in embarrassment. "M-my apologies, sir. I'll have them moved right away!" She immediately turned to face the students. "S-sorry about that. How about we move on to a hands-on experience!"
Seemingly satisfied the man left without another word, Ryuji glaring bitterly at him as he watched him walk away.
"Who the hell's that jerk think he is anyway?" he asked. His expression fell as Ann proceeded to decline a sleazy-looking crewman's attempts to get her number. "Alright, for real, now, the hell's wrong with the adults here anyway?! I'd gladly yank their stupid hearts out!"
"...C'mon, just give it to me! I'll gladly get a message from you, could get you a TV spot..." the crewman said, only to step back as Kyoko came between him and Ann with an iron glare.
"She isn't interested," she said sternly. "Do I need to tell our teacher about this and have her get a complaint filed about you?"
"Eh, whatever. Neither of you'll break into the business with that attitude," the man said, walking away.
"Is something going on over here?" Kawakami asked, coming over.
"No... it's nothing," Ann said, looking down red-faced.
"I understand you're all bored," Kawakami said, "But please... just stay out of trouble, alright? They want us to learn how the equipment works and move the cables for them."
"You mean they're just usin' us for free labor?" Ryuji fumed.
Kawakami sighed. "...Just don't complain and let's get this over with." she said. "Sakamoto, they're having the boys move the cables into the storage. Takamaki, Kirigiri, come with me. We'll be helping with the equipment."
Ann and Kyoko exchanged a look as Ryuji grumbled to himself while walking off to join the other boys, and set to work.
"...Who'd have guessed behind all the glamor things are so... hectic," Ann remarked as she and Kyoko emerged from the bathroom after finishing their tasks. "The least that newscaster could have done was apologize... and that sleazebag, who did he think he was?!"
The blonde growled a bit in frustration. "Thanks for warding him off, though, Kyoko. I dunno how you do it."
"Given the fact detective work is a career dominated mostly by adult men, and being his only heir, my grandfather saw to it I learned ways to make people take me seriously," Kyoko replied.
Ann couldn't help but giggle a little, prompting a raised eyebrow from Kyoko.
"You find this amusing?"
"No, it's just... remember when I said I wanted to be in action movies that last time we hung out?" Ann asked. "I meant every word of it and well... what you just said kinda made me think about that. You saw how that creep was back there, one look and people just assume I'm easy, or some shallow bimbo no matter how many times I say no."
"Wish I coulda shown him a thing or two!" Morgana said, climbing partway out of Kyoko's schoolbag. "If it wasn't crowded and having a rule against animals I'd have clawed his face off for you, Lady Ann!"
"I appreciate it, Morgana," said Ann, scratching the cat's head. "...But still, if I'm gonna star in action movies, I need to be taken more seriously! If I can make creeps like that back down in real life, then I'd be able to sell it to an audience!"
"Well, a starting point is showing an ability to keep your feet planted firmly on the ground," Kyoko replied.
"How would I do that?" Ann asked, frowning a little. "I try and look at the stuff Enoshima says in her magazine interviews but it feels like I miss something! Like I'm not being "alpha" enough."
"I don't read things like that but I can say a firm stance and a stern look without overdoing it is one thing," Kyoko explained. "If you come off as too angry you're seen as emotional. If you're too soft you come off as indecisive or weak-willed. Either of which makes people like that see you as easy to control. You can feel fear, but in such situations you can't allow fear to picked up on or you are seen an easy target especially when you are able to be made to react certain ways. A predator becomes aware of their advantage and moves in for the kill when they know their prey is afraid, because they know then that they've won."
"I guess I do have a bit to learn. Maybe if I practice in front of a mirror tonight?" Ann wondered.
Kyoko gave a small, faint smile. "It's a start, I suppose."
"All that aside," Ann said, helping herself to a cup of water from a nearby drink cooler, "...Hope Ryuji's alright. He looked ready to have his spine drop out his backside with how heavy those cable wires they made him carry looked."
"Someone mention my name?" Ryuji asked as he came around the corner, frowning. "Just glad it's all over..."
"Looked pretty rough what they had you doing," Ann said.
"It was! Seriously, that pissed me off so bad!" Ryuji growled. "We're on a field trip! We're supposed to be guests! The hell they get off makin' us into their manual laborers?! If I wanted to do that shit all day I'd effin' apply for a job here so I can at least get paid for it!"
Kyoko folded her arms, sighing. "It's likely these were the terms of allowing us to be here," she replied.
"Coulda at least told us, then! It wouldn't have been nearly as bad if that newscaster guy and that jerk from earlier weren't standin' there bossin' us around like a couple'a drill sergeants!" Ryuji grumbled. "I'm beyond sick of entitled adults like that thinkin' they can treat people that way!"
"Hey, I get you, but keep it down! We don't wanna get in trouble!" Ann urged.
"That doesn't exactly make me feel any better, you know," Ryuji said, hanging his head and sighing deeply as he attempted to calm himself. "We gonna have to do this tomorrow too?"
"You can't flake out on this, Ryuji!" Morgana said.
"I know, I know! I gotta be a "good boy", right?"
"Oh, that reminds me, we get to go straight home from here, today!" Ann said, her tone upbeat as she attempted to cheer the others up.
"I recall that, yes," Kyoko said. "I'll admit it'd be a relief after what we had to deal with today."
"Actually I was thinking maybe we could see the sights a little and check out the shops before we go home?" Ann asked.
A growl was heard, not overly loud but enough that Ann, Morgana, and Kyoko immediately turned their attention on Ryuji.
"Aw, come on, Ryuji, I know they worked you hard but you could still see what this place has!" Ann offered.
"...No, no... That was my stomach. You'd think they'd at least have let us help ourselves to the concession table after we were done, but nooooo," Ryuji muttered. "I wanna eat somethin' soon as possible after that workout!"
Kyoko glanced down at her own stomach as she felt a slight rumble as well, then brought her hand to her chin, closing her eyes and trying to preserve her dignity. "So long as it's not burgers or anything instant, I'll remain open-minded on where to go if we grab a meal."
"I gotta admit, that huge building we saw on the way here? The way it looked really put me in the mood to wanna try pancakes! Think they have them around here?" Morgana cried out excitedly.
Ryuji raised an eyebrow in confusion. "Huh? Oh! You mean Dome Town? There's a big round part that's a baseball stadium but there is an amusement park so... maybe?"
"I hear they have some pretty hardcore rides there, actually!" Ann said.
"I've personally never been there," Kyoko replied. "I have nothing else going on today, so I suppose it wouldn't hurt, but we'd probably want to eat after the rides, then unless you don't mind killing time for about an hour..."
"Well, like I said, there's plenty of shops around we can check out if we do that," said Ann.
"Right, I'm down with that! We can figure out meals or rides first when we get there!" Ryuji said with a smirk.
"...Oh! Kirigiri-san...?" Kyoko and the others' attention turned towards a voice Kyoko immediately recognized, Morgana swiftly ducking back into Kyoko's bag.
Standing at the fork in the hall, monogrammed briefcase in hand and in the uniform she'd seen him in before was a boy Kyoko immediately recognized. Goro Akechi, the "Detective Prince" she'd become formally acquainted with when he visited the Leblanc café the other evening. The boy scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. "...My apologies, I just didn't expect I'd run into you here! So you're attending Shujin Academy? I recognized the uniform and heard about the field trip." he said. "I was just passing by and thought it'd be polite to greet you all, since we'll be filming together then I recognized you!"
"I admit I wasn't expecting I'd run into you here, either," Kyoko replied.
"Well, for what it's worth, it's certainly a very pleasant surprise for me!" Akechi said with a smile. "I think I'm looking forward to the filming much more, now!"
Ryuji glanced back and forth between Kyoko and Akechi. "You... know this guy, Kyoko?" he asked, clearly unaware of who the boy was.
Kyoko gave a nod. "We've met, yes. He came by the café I'm staying at one night and we talked for a while."
"Right, where are my manners?" Akechi asked, smiling sheepishly. "My name's Goro Akechi!"
"Akechi... where have I heard that name?" Ann wondered.
"This guy a celebrity or somethin' Kyoko?" Ryuji asked, gesturing at the boy as he looked over at her.
"Well, I have been on TV a number of times," Akechi replied with a modest smile. "...Though it's mostly due to that my current cases have brought me a lot of media attention."
"Cases?" Ryuji asked, raising an eyebrow.
"He's a detective," Kyoko replied, prompting the blond boy's eyes to widen as he looked at the two back and forth. "...Like myself."
"Oh, wait I have heard of you! You're the Detective Prince!" Ann said, looking at the boy in awe.
Akechi chuckled warmly. "Guilty as charged, but no need to fawn. I'm still just another high schooler trying to get through his studies, after all!"
"Still, though, two prodigy high school detectives?" Ann asked.
"It certainly did grip my interest when I learned your friend's name, here!" Akechi said with a smile as he indicated Kyoko. "I'm actually quite a fan of the Kirigiri clan's achievements, it's my hope I can perhaps meet that standard myself, someday!"
"...But why that uniform?" Ryuji asked, frowning as he looked the boy over. "Ain't it time for the warm weather?"
Akechi gave a shrug. "Oh, right now the blazer's just for the filming. The management asked I wear it even now. I suppose once you have a certain image, people associate you with it and they feel it's part of mine..."
Akechi's smile faded as a hum came from his coat pocket, the boy took out his cellphone, looking it over before pocketing it. "...I'm very sorry, I really was just passing through. They're already asking where I am so I must be going, they've got a briefing for tomorrow's recording they need me for... hopefully they're not too annoyed with me for being a little tardy," he explained. "...Still, it was wonderful getting to see you again, Kirigiri-san. I hope you'll make it to tomorrow's filming!"
Kyoko noted the look on Akechi's face, as though like at the café, he may have been sizing her up as a potential rival he now had the opportunity to prove his own worth to. She gave the boy a nod. "I'll be there," she said, folding her arms again and smiling faintly.
Akechi smiled back, giving a small chuckle again. "I appreciate it! Anyway, you all enjoy your pancakes, I actually missed lunch today, so I'll probably be getting something myself once I'm done here," he said. "...At any rate, I'll see you all tomorrow!"
The boy turned to leave, before pausing to look back at Kyoko, giving her a smile and a nod before disappearing around the corner as he left.
"That guy, I tell ya... entertainer, detective, entertainer-detective or whatever, he'll never be popular with that kinda hair!" Ryuji said with a chuckle.
"...You clearly don't get it," Ann replied. "Girls at school talk about the "Detective Prince" all the time. They're crazy about him. That said..." the blonde looked over at Kyoko giving a playful smirk. "...Kyoko, if any girl has a shot with him, it's gotta be you, what with you both being detectives and all."
Kyoko looked away, brushing back her hair. "...I'm sure he just sees the Kirigiri heir as someone to impress for reasons that have nothing to do with romance."
Ann giggled. "Maybe you can find out when we see him tomorrow!"
Kyoko closed her eyes, sighing as she took a moment to maintain her neutral demeanor. "...Let's just focus on what we're doing next."
"Yeah, save the girl talk stuff for when I'm not around to hear it," Ryuji said dismissively. "We're done here, right? Let's get to Dome Town already! Suidobashi, here we come!"
6/10
Kyoko watched as Ryuji lurched his way off the train as the group had arrived at the TV station once more.
"Aw man, I didn't eat a thing last night when I got home," Ryuji muttered.
"You really shouldn't have gone on the vomit-machine rides right after stuffing yourself, Ryuji," Morgana said, poking his head out of Kyoko's bag.
"I agree, normally you're supposed to wait two hours," Kyoko replied.
"Aw c'mon! An hour went by and you n' Ann didn't get sick!" Ryuji asked indignantly.
"Because they didn't eat half as much as you did!" Morgana snapped back.
"It's true, a large meal usually is suggested a two hour wait before going on a roller-coaster. A moderately sized meal you only gotta wait about one!" Ann said with a smile as she walked over.
"Moderate? All you did was skip dessert!" Ryuji protested.
"I'm trying to cut back," Ann replied. "Don't complain to me how metabolism works!"
"Still, wish I wasn't the one standin' by the lines with our bags and my nausea when you took Kyoko on. Can't believe you talked her into it," said Ryuji, smirking in amusement at Kyoko.
"I was... curious enough," Kyoko said.
"You held it together really well, though!" Ann said with an approving nod. "...Though I did notice your legs shaking a little as we got off at the end."
"They weren't, I've... just never been on one before," Kyoko said, closing her eyes and brushing back her hair dismissively and choosing not to indicate any anxiety she might have felt in what felt like a complete blur that ended shortly after it started.
"I definitely noticed a change in your walking when you were carrying me after," Morgana remarked.
Kyoko gave the cat a brief glance before looking back at Ann and Ryuji. "...We should get going, the filming is about to begin and they'll want to start seating us."
Female students cheered excitedly from their seats in the audience as Akechi emerged from a nearby door frame, cameras on him as he politely smiled and held his hand up in greeting, making his way to the red couches at the front of the flashy, lit-up stage where a male and female announcer waited. Kyoko, Ryuji, and Ann sat together in the third row while Morgana remained in Kyoko's school bag at her feet, all of them watching in silence amidst the cacophony of enthusiastic cries and cheers of the boy's name while he and the announcers sat themselves down.
"Cutting back from commercial," the AD said, holding his hand up as he gestured to the cameraman. "In Seven, six... five seconds till start... four, three, two, one..."
The lights of the stage came on, the overhead lamps grew brighter, and the female announcer turned to face the camera.
"And now, onto the "Hottest Meet & Greet" segment of our show!" she said with a cheerful smile. "After his last appearance was so well-received, we decided to bring back this fine young gentleman today! The High School Detective Prince himself, Goro Akechi!"
Akechi smiled, nodding in appreciation as the cheers from the audience erupted once more. "Hello everyone!" he said bashfully before turning his attention to the announcer. "I'm very grateful you would want to have me back!"
"Oh, the gratitude should be from us, Akechi-kun," the male announcer said. "With how stunning your popularity has gotten, we want to thank you for taking the time to join us again!"
Akechi shook his head. "The pleasure is all mine, even I found it to be quite a surprise, admittedly!" Akechi said with a modest chuckle. "...It is a bit embarrassing, though!"
"Well, moving along," the female announcer said, "...We've been told there's a case on your mind right now! Care to share it with us, detective?"
"Indeed," Akechi said with a nod. "That would be the massive scandal surrounding the master artist, Ichiryusai Madarame..."
"Ahhh, there it is!" the male announcer stated in a loud and cheerful tone. "All this Phantom Thief excitement has caught your attention, too, Akechi-kun!"
Akechi gave a small, amused smirk at the man's bombastic response. "...I suppose it has, actually."
"Then allow me to be blunt on the matter, just for a second!" the man said enthusiastically. "What do you think of these justice-oriented "Phantom Thieves?"
"Well, if they truly are heroes of justice, I sincerely hope they exist!" Akechi said with a smile.
"Ohhh, so you don't deny the possibility that they're real?" the male announcer asked.
Akechi offered a shrug. "Well, I may not seem like it, but I've sometimes wished that Santa Claus actually existed!" he said playfully. "...Though if he did, I'd of course have to arrest him for breaking and entering, wouldn't I?"
Ryuji let out an audible groan as he looked around at Akechi's fans in the audience laughing from the boy's joke, including Ann while Kyoko remained still, her arms folded and wearing her neutral expression as she kept her attention on the stage waiting for him to continue. "-Tch!- Wasn't that funny," he mumbled.
"Lighten up!" Ann whispered next to him before returning her attention to the stage as well.
"Still, hypothetically speaking," Akechi continued once the laughter died down, "...If these Phantom Thieves are in fact real..."
The boy folded his arms, bringing his hand to his chin before gazing at the announcers. "...I believe they should be tried in a court of law..."
Ann stared agape at Akechi's response, her eyes turning towards Ryuji, who was seething in his seat. Kyoko's expression was unreadable, but Ann noticed the girl's gaze had narrowed, looking more stern. Even the announcers looked astonished as well by what the celebrity detective had said.
"That's... quite a statement!" the man said, his cheery disposition faltering a little. "Do you feel they're committing any crimes? Some people even say the Phantom Thieves are actually helping their targets abandon their evil ways."
"C-considering the severity of the crimes committed by Madarame, as well as those of Suguru Kamoshida, whom we remember was also supposedly targeted by these Phantom Thieves, was exposed as guilty of a number of scandals as well," the female announcer added.
"Make no mistake, the crimes of both Madarame and Kamoshida were truly unforgivable!" Akechi responded, his expression hardening, "However, taking the law into one's own hands to judge them is far from justice... and more importantly, forcefully changing one's heart is another matter that comes into question as well..."
"You do have a point! These people are calling themselves "Phantom Thieves", after all!" the male announcer said, nodding in approval and having gotten his composure back. "Amazing as always, Akechi-kun! I could listen to you for days with your radiant charisma!"
"I will say, though," Akechi replied, a sheepish grin on his face, "...I'd be quite embarrassed if it turns out those Phantom Thieves don't exist! If that were the case, I'd summarize it into a report as a school project!"
"Well, now, why don't we take a moment to ask some students Akechi-kun's age what they think about the Phantom Thieves!" the female announce said as she turned towards the camera again. "Press your button we gave each of you if you believe these Phantom Thieves really exist!"
Ryuji didn't even hesitate, Kyoko and Ann watched as he pressed the button on his remote repeatedly. Ann looked concerned, but pressed hers as well. Kyoko watched the counter screen behind Akechi and the announcers begin to fluctuate and held her remote up, noticing at that moment Akechi's gaze had turned in her direction. She knew he saw her there, no doubt waiting to see what she would do, what she, a fellow high school detective, one from a renowned family who'd made a name from said career, would do.
...What she thought...
The girl held up her remote, her expression perfectly neutral as her thumb hovered over the button a second before she pressed it. Even from where she sat, she could see that his interest in her grew though he said nothing as the counter concluded at 17.
"Hm, seventeen of our audience members say yes. That puts it at about thirty percent!" the male announcer said, looking at the counter, then at Akechi. "So what are your thoughts, Akechi-kun?"
"I'm a bit surprised, actually!" Akechi said, looking at the counter in awe. "...It's higher then I expected! That said, I'd love to hear some more details on the Phantom Thieves' actions. Perhaps anyone in the audience would like to give their input?"
The female announcer stood up, taking a microphone with her as she combed the audience, before her eyes met Kyoko's. Kyoko wasn't sure if the announcer had noticed where Akechi had looked or her earlier action as well, or if the hand of fate had simply chosen to send her in her direction, but it was clear she had been selected.
"How about we ask this young lady!" the announcer said, giving Kyoko a reassuring smile. "Don't be nervous, miss! Hypothetically speaking, what are your thoughts on the Phantom Thieves if they are in fact real?"
Kyoko kept her neutral expression, relieved the cameras were not on her as she could see Akechi was watching her intently once more. She folded her arms, tilting her head down and closed her eyes.
"I believe," she began. "...That the Phantom Thieves act in the name of justice."
Her eyes opened, she saw the hint of surprise on Akechi's face, which was soon replaced with a very interested smile.
"Well, this young lady's statement goes completely against the opinion you expressed about them being tried by the law, Akechi-kun!" the male announcer said, looking over at the boy detective.
"Indeed so, it's very intriguing to hear such an acknowledgement, particularly with such conviction," Akechi replied, before turning his attention back to Kyoko. "In which case, there is one question I wish to ask in response, if I may?"
Eyes were on her, Kyoko looked at the boy across the room from her and gave a nod of approval.
"Say someone close to you, like your friend sitting there next to you, for instance," Akechi stated. "...If his heart were to suddenly change, wouldn't you think it the work of the Phantom Thieves?" he asked.
"Hey, wait a sec-!" Ryuji began indignantly, Kyoko gently raised her hand in reassurance.
"Both Madarame and Kamoshida, the ones targeted by the Phantom Thieves, were both dangerous criminals," she responded. "You no doubt saw the interviews by the students of the school Kamoshida taught at, as well as those of Madarame's former pupils. All of them confirmed both committed their crimes for quite some time, well before the Phantom Thieves first targeted Kamoshida, and testimony as well as confession confirm Madarame's crimes date back over a decade."
"Ahh, you've followed the news quite carefully, I see," Akechi responded, holding his chin thoughtfully.
"I have," Kyoko said with a nod. "The interviews explained why their victims remained silent. Is it possible then, that these Phantom Thieves acted because no one else would or could?"
Akechi gave a nod as he listened. "...I can certainly understand that motive, I like to believe many, including myself, choose our career with the law to stop criminals like Kamoshida and Madarame and exposing them was a positive outcome, but whether the Phantom Thieves' actions are good or not... a far more important issue remains at hand..."
"What do you mean, Akechi-kun?" the male announcer asked, his co-announcer giving Kyoko an appreciative nod before returning to her own seat as well.
"...The matter of how they change peoples' hearts," Akechi replied, crossing his legs and looking downward in thought. "...If they honestly possess such an ability, then surely it can be used for more then simply extracting confessions from otherwise seemingly untouchable criminals..."
"Such as?" the female announcer asked, intrigued.
"Perhaps seemingly ordinary crimes are actually being perpetrated by these methods? Recall the subway incident that was all over the news just a few months ago?" Akechi asked. "While my own investigation did find other issues, none of the people interviewed, including the conductor's family, could make sense of his actions... do you see where I'm going with this?"
"I see, you could be right!" the male announcer said.
Akechi smiled, shaking his head apologetically. "Don't misunderstand me, this is all purely hypothetical," he explained. "It is only if people who can use such a power truly exist. Unless there is proof these are unrelated, this possibility cannot be ignored... and if they are, their existence would be nothing but a threat on our everyday lives."
Akechi sat up straight, giving the announcers and the camera a determined nod. "...To be honest, I'm already working alongside the police to help sort out this matter..."
"Well in that case," the female announcer said. "I'm sure we'll all be rooting for you! Thanks again for coming on our show, Akechi-kun!"
Kyoko had remained silent as the interview ended, joining Ann and Ryuji near the doors. The young detective glanced back at Akechi, who was now swarmed by a crowd of girls from school eager for autographs while security did their best to keep them under control.
"I don't agree with what he said, but I guess I can understand how it might look," Ann said. "It's not like he knows about this... "Black Mask" person Madarame's Shadow seemed so afraid of..."
"He's wrong, but his perspective is based on a matter of things that can't be proven and we can't come out about," Kyoko said. "He'd have no reason not to consider the possibility the Phantom Thieves' actions and incidents like the ones he described are committed by the same people. Both involve a profound change of one's heart that no one unaware of the metaverse could ever explain."
"Just pisses me off he'd go and make us look like we're the baddies after we stopped Kamoshida and Madarame when no one else was gonna," Ryuji grumbled.
"To be frank, Ryuji, I can only rationalize our actions because I was present for them. I was able to see the severity of Kamoshida and Madarame's crimes, as well as those we targeted in Mementos, and the fact people like Kamoshida and Madarame had power and influence to ensure their crimes would otherwise remain unpunished, in addition to us also gaining a clue of a possible culprit responsible for the other incidents," Kyoko explained, folding her arms. "...Had I not been... subject to a criminal charge and put into the position I'm in, now, if I were still an active detective, and assigned the case, I would likely theorize the same possibility of them being terrorists masquerading as vigilante heroes, and be fully intent on hunting down the Phantom Thieves as well."
"I guess I see your point, Kyoko..." Ann said softly. "Still, the stuff about the police..."
"I say that detective boy can say whatever he wants," Morgana said, poking his head from Kyoko's school bag and looking over at her. "He's totally wrong about us!"
"The truth takes no sides," Kyoko said. "Given the severity of these incidents, in his position I would not have dismissed the possibility either, because whether we like it or not, the Phantom Thieves have put a face on these incidents, all of them."
"So you'd be our enemy if you weren't our leader, huh? Considerin' everything, I don't even wanna think about that. Honestly, I'd like to think you're better then that," Ryuji said, frowning a little.
Kyoko closed her eyes, going quiet a moment. "...You didn't know me before all of this, Ryuji. My grandfather opposed attachments and ensured I put my detective work above all else which I was willing to believe wholly, especially after..." She went quiet, troubled memories passing through her mind.
"After what?" Ann asked, curious.
"I'll tell you both another time. Just know, I've remained very singularly focused on what my grandfather expected of me in my career as a detective after, and that night when I was put in jail was a time I let my feelings lead me, and it only seemed to reinforce his ideals," Kyoko explained. "...It wasn't until after I met you all that I've allowed my mind to open this much again, moreso now."
"Well, either way, Kyoko, way you spoke your mind back there an' all, what'cha believe now, we're gonna prove 'em wrong and that we're just!" Ryuji said before suddenly fidgeting. "...Crap, sorry, I'm gonna go take a leak real fast, I'll be right back."
Ann watched as Ryuji anxiously rushed off, looking back at Kyoko again, clearly not sharing his optimism. "Do you think there's any way we could prove our innocence?" she asked.
"As of right now, they'd all be extremely risky, Ann. It's why I'm intent on solving all of this. Given the nature of these incidents, it'd be very difficult to prove short of catching and exposing the one or ones responsible," Kyoko replied. "...Do you understand what I'm saying, now?"
Ann nodded, though still very downcast from her worry. "I suppose I do," she said. "...I'll see you later, alright? Think I'm gonna head on home."
"...Lady Ann," Morgana sighed, watching Ann leave. Kyoko herself couldn't help but feel regretful, like her blunt words may have been more then her friend could deal with right now...
"Kirigiri-san?" Kyoko looked over, noticing Akechi approaching now that his fan crowd had been dispersed and escorted out. "I really appreciate you sticking around!" he said with a smile. "...Otherwise I wouldn't have been able to thank you in person..."
Kyoko raised an eyebrow at the boy before her. "Thank me?" she asked, brushing back her hair.
"Of course!" Akechi replied with a nod. "To paraphrase Hagel, "advancement cannot occur without thesis and antithesis", and hearing a fellow detective challenge my viewpoint when few people are willing to speak their minds around me already, made for very meaningful discussion and a stronger need to validate my stance, actually."
"On that note, I appreciate you not identifying me when that announcer selected me," Kyoko replied.
"Think nothing of it," Akechi said. "I... kind of suspected you preferred things that way or you'd have likely done so yourself. I'm glad to see I wasn't mistaken!" he added with a playful chuckle.
"Even though the Kirigiris generally avoid the limelight, my family's reputation would still precede me," Kyoko said. "I imagine your status as a celebrity makes people want to agree with all you say?"
"You'd think," Akechi replied, his smile fading a little. "...But I believe it's more the opposite. My experiences have shown me adults tend to be only interested in using the young for their own agendas, and in turn expecting the young to do as adults say..."
Kyoko looked away a moment. Akechi's words had hit a nerve with her even if he'd not intended it. A part of her wanted to tell both him and herself she understood that, but another part seemed to stop the words from coming out to avoid being asked why.
"...I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable," Akechi said. "I'm just making a point it's refreshing to engage with someone I don't feel is trying to coerce me in some way."
Kyoko closed her eyes. "You've no need to apologize. I'm going through... a difficult time," she explained.
"...And it's making you question some things in your life, isn't it?" he asked.
Kyoko went silent, simply staring back at the boy, who gave an apologetic smile in return.
"I'm making you uncomfortable again, aren't I?" he asked. "Whatever you're dealing with is your business, I wouldn't pry on such matters. It's simply a matter of as prolific detectives, I gathered we've both seen our share of irresponsibility and injustice around us in the modern world that can leave us questioning the system and society our career tasks us with helping."
"Something like that," Kyoko replied, folding her arms.
"To a detective who is uncompromising to corruption and values uncovering the truth... this image the Phantom Thieves give can be very relatable, indeed," Akechi said. "Very admirable, especially when our line of work exposes us to dark secrets and ugly facts below the surface that are overlooked and even protected by adults society demands respect towards. The truth takes no sides, after all, correct?"
"My grandfather always told me that when training me, yes," Kyoko said.
Akechi chuckled. "Where do you think I heard it? Not from him in person, but his philosophy is shared. Perhaps the truth is these "Phantom Thieves" are exactly as you believe, acting with good intentions," he explained, bringing his hand to his chin in thought. "...After all, since they appear to have special talents and targeted criminals who, as we'd discussed in the interview, had the ability to use a form of institutionalized corruption to evade consequences for their crimes, I could assume their hearts are burning with a sense of justice and duty..."
"However?" Kyoko inquired, her gaze permitting him to continue.
"...But perhaps that justice is merely a facade, concealing their lack of true strength. That's why I believe if a truly powerful opponent, one they were no match for, were to corner them, they would flee without a second thought."
Kyoko's gaze narrowed. "You believe this?"
Akechi nodded. "Ask yourself this, Kirigiri-san, why is the Kuzuryu Clan still a powerful force in Japan's underworld? Why is the Togami family never investigated? Would it be cynical of me to say that they have enough power that even the whole DSC wouldn't dare take a case that pointed at them? If I'm right, what trust can be held in a group of vigilantes, even with these apparent abilities they claim to have?"
Kyoko opened her mouth to speak, but Akechi's words once more pierced her resolve. The Detective Library had countless cases archived from countless detectives, and the more she thought about it now, she couldn't remember any that had made a serious attempt on either example Akechi had given. That very thought made her frown deepen and her brow furrow slightly for a moment, particularly as it brought to mind how she'd had her life ruined by that fateful night by someone even her grandfather was rendered powerless against. She thought about how she first found Ryuji and Ann when Kamoshida practically ruled over Shujin Academy, how broken and helpless Yusuke felt when he was essentially enslaved by Madarame that he'd do whatever it took to appease him, and the fact she'd still, in the end, not given up and successfully got both criminals behind bars for good.
"If they truly believe in justice, then they would fight to the end," Kyoko said, glancing back up at him sternly. "An enemy gains power when they know who you are and find what you have to lose to make you fear them. For that reason, their anonymity may be their greatest strength, perhaps giving them an advantage others don't have."
"Very true, but that anonymity also makes it questionable who's side they're really on, and whether or not they can truly be trusted," Akechi replied.
"...I can't disagree on that point, Akechi-kun, it's an understandable statement when one looks at what else has happened," Kyoko said, running her hand through her hair, her gaze becoming stoic and neutral once more. "...However, based on escalation, I still choose to give the benefit of the doubt. A detective should weigh all possibilities, including that perhaps they are indeed just and simply need a greater opportunity to prove themselves, both in their justice and willingness to stand their ground, particularly when it is true there are criminals who hold enough influence to otherwise avoid consequences that could motivate such a response."
Akechi regarded the girl for a second, then smiled with interest. "A very interesting response! I bet you'd make a very worthwhile debate partner on the subect!" he said, offering his left hand, Kyoko noting his black gloves. "...If it's alright with you, I'd love to do this again, and exchange thoughts with you."
"With me?" Kyoko asked, her expression gaining a hint of intrigue as well.
"Of course! How can I not appreciate discussion with a fellow detective, particularly one of your caliber, Kirigiri-san?" Akechi asked with a pleasant nod.
Kyoko blinked, though her expression remaining neutral. She knew she'd had his interest when he'd visited Leblanc and the previous day, and admittedly now, he had hers. The boy was much more insightful and dedicated to his career then her grandfather had written him off as. Still, she could feel that desire to prove her own point to him however possible after what she'd experienced. Giving a small, faint smile, the girl extended her hand as well, taking his. "Perhaps I can say the same," she said.
Akechi chuckled warmly. "That's wonderful to hear. If I can be frank, you're different from others I talk to, and have a remarkable mystique to you I felt even when we met at the cafe, perhaps it's my own detective's intuition?" he asked. "...I'm joking, of course. My point is, I find it both very refreshing and very intriguing when I'm talking to you."
Kyoko regarded the boy detective, their grip lingering. His smile seemed to reach his eyes more then it did when he was talking to the announcers on TV, or being approached by his fans afterward. It seemed he had taken a liking to her, if anything because she'd challenged him rather then exist within a sycophantic, manipulative echo chamber he seemed to feel smothered by. There had been the saying of keeping one's friends close and their enemies closer, so she could potentially get a feel for the progress of the investigation through him, yet at the same time she could not label Akechi necessarily an enemy, if indeed he was the detective he prided himself on being, then he would have to accept the truth when the Phantom Thieves sense of justice was proven to him.
Her mind was made up.
"...I'll try not to disappoint you," Kyoko replied, her tone and expression stern, but also accepting.
The boy smiled a little wider, closing his eyes in appreciation. "Then to our mutual and everlasting search for the truth..."
?/?
The truth.
What was the truth?
Kyoko fought the haziness in her mind as she struggled to sit up straight. Her body ached, her mind felt numb, but she attempted to press on.
"If I may also state," Niijima said, her tone firm, but leaning forward with interest. "It's rather hard to believe with the spectacle you've made that you were able to evade the police's network so easily," she explained. "An initial assumption would be your time as a detective prior to this had procured you contacts within the DSC, but I suspect you'd have known not to trust any with your secret."
Kyoko looked at her. "No... Kirigiris don't... normally work with others. They would have sold me out... anyway," she said between her strained breaths.
Niijima raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "A rather harsh statement towards those I'm sure you've worked alongside at least once before. What makes you so certain?"
Kyoko remained silent a moment before speaking. "It's what I would have done... back then."
"Are you trying to convey some moral high ground after what you're here for?" Niijima asked sharply. "Still, I suppose you aren't incorrect in that observation, and it's clear your opinion of the law has soured noticeably since your time as a detective, or you would likely have never embarked on this self-appointed quest, would you?" she asked. "Which brings me to my next point. Perhaps you use your skills as a detective to provide the necessary insight on how it works to protect yourself and your accomplices? That'd be another easy assumption a court room would come to when people learn everything about you..."
Before Kyoko could provide any answer, however, Niijima spoke again. "...But I doubt even with your skill and so much attention on you, it would not have been possible alone... the only logical conclusion is that there was someone associated with the police who secretly had ties Phantom Thieves," she explained. "...Someone you could directly find out the progress of the investigation against you from when it started. Would I be correct?"
6/10
Her gloved hand gripped with Akechi's, Kyoko saw reality seem to slow to a halt, as the voice once more spoke to her from within.
I am thou, tho art I...
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Justice Persona.
I have obtained the winds of blessing that
shall lead to freedom and new power...
Kyoko heard the sound of a chain link shattering within her mind as reality around her once more returned to normal, noticing she was still holding the boy's hand.
Akechi noticed as well, giving an amused smirk. "Well, I should probably get that hand back," he said sheepishly, releasing his grip. "...Why don't we exchange contact info? It'd make it a lot easier to reach you when I'm free."
The irony that she had been freely offered what his adoring fans would have likely sold a limb and a vital organ for could not be lost on Kyoko, to the point she couldn't help but appreciate it enough to give the boy another faint smile. "Very well," she said with a nod, taking her phone out as he took out his own, their numbers exchanged and messaged in confirmation a moment later.
"Wonderful!" Akechi said with a approving smile as he looked at his screen a moment, noting the time then pocketing his phone. "Well, I should probably be going, I'm needed at the courthouse soon," he explained. "It's been a pleasure getting to know you a little more, Kirigiri-san. I really look forward to the next chance we can talk again!"
"...A detective's intuition, huh?" Morgana asked, poking his head from Kyoko's bag as they both watched the young man exit through the doors at the end of the studio. "...We shouldn't underestimate that..."
"Keep your friends close and your enemies closer," Kyoko said quietly, reciting her earlier thoughts and folding her arms. "I could get an idea of how the police's investigation is progressing with him."
"Hey, that's true," Morgana said. "If he contacts you, try hanging out with him, then."
Kyoko gave a nod, before hearing rapid breathing and she saw Ryuji rushing back over while Morgana climbed back into her bag at the mention of a stage hand asking if anyone heard a cat meow.
"Hey, sorry for takin' so long!" Ryuji said. "...Saw you n' that Akechi guy talkin' so I didn't wanna interrupt."
"I appreciate it," Kyoko replied with a nod.
Ryuji gave a disgusted groan. "He get under your skin, too?"
"The conversation was actually rather civil if that's what you're wondering," Kyoko answered.
Ryuji frowned a little. "Still dunno how you do it. Even with all you said earlier, that high-and-mighty attitude he had back there on that interview makes me think I'd get sick breathin' the same air as him!"
Kyoko sighed. "On the contrary, it seems he harbors a degree of respect for me, knowing who I am."
"Lucky you," Ryuji grumbled with a visible eyeroll. "Not all of us are super-detective kids."
Kyoko's neutral expression returned as she folded her arms. "...And not everyone realizes what they had until it's lost. I'd think you'd understand that, Ryuji," she said, turning to leave but not giving indication she was walking away from him, prompting the boy to start walking as well and keep up.
"Yeah, I do, but still... Owch," Ryuji replied, frowning. "...Is that what it is, havin' someone acknowledgin' you for bein' an ace detective for the first time in a while? Didn't your gramps ever do that?"
Kyoko remained silent, and didn't look at him.
"C'mon, was there even one time he was like "Good work, Kyoko, keep it up, you're really on the way to bein' the next great detective"?" he asked, concerned.
Kyoko stopped in her tracks and gave Ryuji a stone-cold stare.
"...Why would he?" she asked, a faint hint of annoyance seeping through her otherwise neutral tone. "I haven't earned that from him, especially now."
"...And I'm bettin' he didn't waste a second to tell ya when ya effed up, though," Ryuji said. Kyoko's expression hardened noticeably, confirming his words. Still, he couldn't deny the girl's glare was a little intimidating, as if daring him to press further on the matter.
"...Sorry, just... got me thinkin' about when I was on track. Our old coach, the one we had before Kamoshida? I told ya how he was strict but fair, and thing was he'd always praise us when we'd go over the last bar he set for us," he said. "I get bein' pushed hard, but I figure you gotta get those moments that show ya it's worth it."
Kyoko looked away, choosing not to respond as she folded her arms, a hint of tightness in her gesture and sharpness in her voice. "...Let's just go home. It's getting late."
"Right, sure thing," Ryuji said, deciding not to press now.
No further words were exchanged the rest of the way.
As Kyoko reached the attic and took a moment to relax on the couch as Morgana took the opportunity to emerge from her bag, she heard her phone start to chime.
[Hey Kyoko, I get what you said earlier but still did Akechi HAVE to go and talk shit about us on live TV of all things? That's still got me pissed!] he asked.
[Don't be sour, Ryuji. There's still the people I doubt could have been saved without the Phantom Thieves.] Yusuke said.
[I'm living proof of that aren't I? If not for you I'd still be Madarame's slave, and he'd no doubt prey on others as well.] he added.
[Aw thanks! Yeah, Kyoko was talking about that too. If not for us, Kyoko and I woulda been expelled.] Ryuji said, seemingly calmer thanks to Yusuke's response.
[And I would have still had to worry about Kamoshida.] Ann chimed in.
[And he would have gone after others like he did to Shiho.] she added.
-How is she by the way? Kyoko messaged.
[I called her after I left. She's still in rehab therapy.] Ann replied.
[I was feeling down, but when I heard her voice, it was like she had hope again! It showed me you guys are right. We aren't the bad guys here!] she continued.
-Understand Akechi only sees our actions from an outside perspective. Kyoko replied.
-I've also learned he's aware of the corruption that allowed people like Kamoshida and Madarame to get away with their crimes. she continued.
[Then why the hating on us?] Ryuji asked.
-Because a detective seeks the truth, which holds no sides, so he'd also follow the possibility of us being associated with the other incidents based on what he's able to observe from us especially with their severity. Kyoko replied.
[Then that means we gotta find a REAL scumbag, way worse then Kamoshida and Madarame combined and he'll have to at least effin consider we're the good guys!] said Ryuji.
[That would turn more of the public in our favor.] Yusuke said.
[But still the matter of him thinking us and the incidents are connected comes to mind.] he added.
[It's gotta be that black mask bastard's fault! There's no one else we know of that can do what we do so we catch that guy too, case closed right Kyoko?] Ryuji asked.
-With any luck, yes. Kyoko answered.
[In that case I believe our best course forward is sticking to our justice, not that of the law.] Yusuke responded.
[After all, these are tasks it is likely only we would be able to accomplish, as Madarame would have been likely impossible to stop by conventional means.] he continued.
[Furthermore, we have the unanimous decision rule in place to ensure we don't lose our way in the process.]
[You're right. I'm not gonna quit any time soon don't you worry!] Ann replied.
[We'll prove to that Detective Prince who the good guys are no matter what!] Ryuji messaged.
-He seems to have taken a shine to me as well. Kyoko messaged.
-He may not be our ally, or support us, but I imagine I can get an idea on the progress of the investigation against us when I spend time with him. she added.
[Whoa, just be careful, alright?] Ryuji answered.
[I will have to agree with Ryuji on this. Do be careful, he may not support us but he's solved many difficult cases. Do not underestimate him.] Yusuke said.
[He's a celebrity too, so he's got a lotta media attention. People also might think they're dating if they're seen around together!] Ann mused.
Kyoko chose not to dignify that statement with a response before giving a more general one.
-I'll be careful. Kyoko replied.
[Anyway dinner's ready, seeya all later! Also, Kyoko, sorry about earlier.] Ryuji said.
Kyoko paused again, taking a breath before giving her response.
-There's nothing to apologize for. It's fine. she said.
[I'm about to order dinner too. Later!] Ann messaged.
[Goodnight everyone.] Yusuke answered.
"Lady Ann isn't wrong, you know," Morgana said as Kyoko put away her phone. "With Akechi's influence in the media it could be risky to get close to him, but it is a good idea to keep an eye on him, too."
"It bothers me a little, deceiving him," Kyoko said. "There was a time I would exploit someone's trust to get closer to solving a case even at their expense without a second thought, but now..."
"You don't feel right about it?" Morgana asked.
Kyoko folded her arms as she remained seated on the couch. "Something he said about being used by others. Seeing how selfish adults use others for their own gain, particularly those in elite circles, such as Madarame, or the ones he listed," she explained. "Ever since I ended up here I've seen more and more of what exists outside of whatever the next case is or whatever was expected next of me, and how peoples' lives get affected by the ones we've stopped."
"I see," Morgana answered. "Well, that's why we're Phantom Thieves, isn't it? To stop criminals who do those things but avoid punishment otherwise!"
Kyoko gave a silent nod. There was more on her mind, namely Ryuji's words and a part of her mind that wanted to say to her he may not have been... entirely wrong. Even if he was wrong about the Phantom Thieves, Akechi's interest, apparent admiration and eagerness to debate with her, and even hint of envy gave Kyoko a sense of validation for what she'd spent her life training for that she hadn't really felt in a while as well.
"Hey, I was thinking," Morgana wondered. "...You think being a detective as well that Akechi guy may try and have you collaborate on hunting us? That might make things tricky, too."
"I doubt that," Kyoko replied quietly. "Aside from his fascination and apparent respect, I could see a rivalry aspect to it. He'll want to solve this case and the other incidents on his own to prove himself..." Kyoko put her hand to her chin. "...After all, solving a case this size when a member of the Kirigiri family could not? My grandfather would have no choice but to concede to his talent."
Morgana's ears drooped a little. "It almost sounds like a competition when you say it like that..."
"It's a matter of how a detective must prove their worth to society," Kyoko replied, recalling her first real conversation with the boy detective in the café. "...A case which only he or she can solve, and a worthy rival. The very things that test a detective's skill in their memory, observation, and deductive reasoning..."
"I think I get it," Morgana said. "Something you work so hard to become so good at, no matter how much your heart's in the right place, you need to prove yourself so people give you a chance to use it when they need it. Like how after we beat Kamoshida and Madarame, people saw what we did, and now they count on us..."
"Something like that, I suppose," Kyoko remarked, her phone suddenly chiming once more as she saw Mishima was now sending her a slew of what she assumed to be him venting over Akechi's condemnation of the Phantom Thieves. After what she'd dealt with earlier, she didn't find the energy or will to repeat herself and allowed him to keep going before finally giving a small, simple response.
-Don't do anything foolish. she replied.
Mishima seemed to pause a moment.
Another moment passed as it appeared Mishima was either typing a large message or his flustered state was making him indecisive about what to say. Finally, however he seemed to come to a way of resolving it.
[I'll change the survey question on the Phansite tomorrow. Everyone'll see what people online really feel about the Phantom Thieves!] he responded.
[Justice is with the Phantom Thieves! Keep doing what you do best!]
[Speaking of, looks like Heiji Ono and Hikari Shimizu aren't causing problems anymore thanks to the Phantom Thieves! That's gonna be a big help with the new question I'm posting!]
[Anyways, seeya! I got some work ahead of me tonight!]
"...Still don't get what he of all people's so upset over this for, though." Morgana remarked as he looked at Kyoko's phone screen before she put it away. "Well, guess we can look forward to what the new question ends up being! Wonder what he came up with?"
"Hopefully nothing that'll make things worse," Kyoko replied, standing herself up and going over to her things to change clothes. Despite Mishima seeming to have calmed down, she was still a little concerned what he might have been up to.
"We'll know tomorrow," Morgana said. "Still, it's frustrating we didn't find a single new major target on our field trip."
Kyoko's impassive frown deepened slightly at Morgana's words as she slid a casual, pocketed skirt on in place of her school one. As ridiculous as it was to think they'd be nearly so lucky, it did mean the Phantom Thieves' progress on achieving their goals of proving themselves, and hopefully finding more clues on this other, black-masked metaverse intruder would still be, for the time being, on an indefinite wait. "...It couldn't be helped."
Kyoko had finished getting dressed when she heard Sojiro knock on the wall at the foot of the stairs. "Hey, you decent?" he called up.
"I am. You can come up," Kyoko replied.
"I wanted to let you know it looks like the night'll be slower then normal so if you were thinking of staying in, I could train you again," Sojiro said as he came up the stairs.
Kyoko looked over at Morgana and Sojiro. It had been a very eventful day and this seemed like it'd be a good way to wind down for the evening. "I'd be glad to," she said, giving the older man a small smile and an approving nod.
Sojiro chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "I appreciate that. Have you had dinner yet, by the way?" he asked.
"I haven't, no," Kyoko said, unsure what Sojiro meant by his question.
"Well, good," he said with a small smile. "...In that case, come down when you're ready and we'll get started."
"Now... these beans are Columbian, medium-fine city roast," Sojiro explained as he showed Kyoko the jar. "This means you don't want to boil the water too much."
The young detective examined the different cooking tools and containers before her, and set the burners on, attempting to get the right setting till Sojiro noticed she had begun to overcorrect herself as she'd begun to lean in towards it like she was studying a crime scene.
"You don't need to get anxious, I'll be here the whole time and you've got it. All you need to do now is wait till it boils and we'll take it from there with this blend," Sojiro said with a reassuring smile.
Kyoko closed her eyes, taking a breath as she left the valve knob alone and stood up straight again.
"There you go. Just relax," said Sojiro. "Besides, you've done well so far on your past lessons, I'm sure you've got this..."
Moments later, the coffee was finished. Sojiro poured himself a cup and took a sip. "Not bad, though I guess anyone can do something as simple as brewing it," he joked.
The girl folded her arms. The way Sojiro trained her was different from how she'd been trained as a detective. While they were wildly different tasks and careers with wildly different stakes, there was a warmth Sojiro provided she never felt from her grandfather that made her think back on what Ryuji had said earlier, that caused her gaze to wander towards the cup on the counter.
"You alright? You look like you've got something on your mind," Sojiro said, interrupting her thoughts.
"It's nothing," she said, brushing back her hair. "Please continue."
Choosing not to pry, Sojiro continued. "Well, then, as I said, this time we simply brewed it. That's the most basic route so I went with that for your first try with this one. Mixing a blend, understand, is a very different story altogether," he explained. "Mixing beans at random won't do you any good, because acidity and flavor profile all depend on bean ratio. Pretty deep, huh?"
"Very fascinating," Kyoko remarked, bringing her hand to her chin as she looked down at the cup again, then at the various jars on the wall.
"Well, give it a try," Sojiro said. "You should always taste your own results after all. There's always a lot you can learn from what you make by taste."
Kyoko gave a nod and poured herself some, and took a sip, letting the taste linger.
"Consider it part of today's lesson," Sojiro explained. "Feel free to try whatever combinations you want... just hands off the ones on this shelf here," he said, pointing to one of the smaller shelves. "Those are the expensive ones so I need to save those for my customers, after all."
"Very well," Kyoko replied, finishing her cup and setting it down.
"Glad we understand that," Sojiro said with a nod. "Now, hope you're hungry, because the next thing we'll be covering this time is the curry."
The girl gave a faint smile. "I was interested in how you made it," she said. "Your customer wasn't wrong about it."
"Well, that's because there's something very special about its flavor," Sojiro explained. "You see, a scientific genius actually came up with the perfect spice combo to compliment my coffee..."
Kyoko's eyebrow raised ever-so-slightly at what he'd said, but noted he seemed entirely serious about it.
"Yes, I suppose it does sound a little far-fetched but it's the truth," Sojiro replied. "Something about quantification of taste... there's no formula for flavor, but it IS pretty damn good, as I'm sure you noticed," he explained, putting his hands at his hips. "But anyhow, we don't make compromises when it comes to food service. Our stuff's gotta wow our customers. This is a tiny shop, after all. Self-satisfaction is what keeps me going!"
Kyoko smiled faintly again, her hand at her chin. "I can understand that. As a detective I can't make compromises with uncovering the truth or I wouldn't be able to prove my efficiency as one."
"That's a way to put it," Sojiro said with a chuckle. "You can't simply be convenient, you gotta be the best others know, and have something that isn't found anywhere else. Now, let's..."
Sojiro's words were interrupted by the sound of the bell ringing as the front door opened, and his expression swiftly hardened into barely concealed anger. Turning, Kyoko immediately recognized the man from before that had pestered Sojiro the other times he'd come by.
"You..." Sojiro had attempted to sound calm, but as Kyoko glanced back at him, she could see his hand was beginning to clench.
"H-haven't I told you I don't have the money?" he asked, dropping the pretense and sounding visibly annoyed with the man. "Look at this place! Do you see any customers around right now?"
The man folded his arms as he looked about before gazing at both Sojiro and Kyoko. "Oh, no need to hide it, Sakura-san!" the man said, chuckling and speaking in a manner of superficial friendliness coating blatant condescension. "Surely you've saved plenty from your time working for the government! Not to mention you got this young lady in your care, too, out of charity, was it?"
Kyoko kept a neutral expression, her arms at her sides. Several things the man had mentioned had immediately stood out to her.
"I just don't understand why you won't show me the kindness you show others," the man continued, mockingly feigning offense.
Sojiro let out a deep, exasperated sigh. "If you're not here to buy something, can you please leave?" he asked. "I'm expecting an important phone call, so I don't have time to chat with you!"
"Oh, don't mind me, I'm happy to let you take your call in front of me, I'll even chat with your little assistant here in the meantime!" the man said with a laugh, clearly not buying Sojiro's claims. "...So, why not just keep talking till that call comes in? Or would that be too inconvenient for you?"
Sojiro glared at the man a moment, but his confidence began to deflate as he seemed unsure what to say by Kyoko's observation as she looked between the two.
"Would you like if we made you anything?" Kyoko asked, quietly sliding her phone out and carefully bringing up Sojiro's number as she held it out of the other man's view behind the counter. "You've come all this way, it'd seem a waste not to make the trip worth your while."
"Oh, trust me, it's already very worth my while," the man replied, smirking past her at Sojiro. "Isn't that right, Sakura-san?
Kyoko immediately pressed the call button and before Sojiro could give a response, his phone began to chime. Taking it out, Sojiro looked at the screen then at the other man.
"There it is!" Sojiro stated. "The social services call I was expecting..."
"Social services?" the man asked.
Sojiro tapped his screen and held his phone up to his ear. "Hello? Yeah, just a second," he said, playing along then covering his phone as he looked back at the man. "Yeah, they come around here often, making sure this young lady's staying out of trouble and call me when they're on their way over. You want me to introduce you?"
Kyoko noticed the man's arrogant demeanor quickly disappear, a very worried look forming in its place.
"A-actually, I just remembered, I have some very important business to take care of, myself!" the man said anxiously, backing towards the door. "...I'll come back another time, alright?"
Sojiro let out an exasperated sigh as soon as the man was gone, switching off and pocketing his phone. "Honestly, doesn't he have anything better to do?!" he snapped.
He noticed Kyoko's stare, figuring out quickly a few things the man had said had gotten the young detective's attention. Sojiro closed his eyes, rubbing his forehead as he sighed again. "...I guess I should explain what's going on. He might try and drop by when I'm not around, after all," he explained, folding his arms. "He's an old... acquaintance of mine who's short on cash right now. Looks pretty friendly right?"
"By my observation it seemed more like he was getting a sense of satisfaction trying to push you around," Kyoko said.
"You're right. It's all an act," Sojiro replied, nodding. "...Still, I appreciated your initiative with pulling that little trick back there. Really saved me back there, so... thanks," he said, an appreciative smile on his face.
Kyoko felt a little flattered from Sojiro's gratitude. After earlier, it meant a little more to her then it would have before. "...You're welcome," she said, smiling faintly in return, and she heard the sound of a chain link shattering within the recesses her mind.
"I guess you really are the type who can't turn a blind eye to things like that, even when it's other peoples' troubles rather then yours, are you?" Sojiro asked.
Kyoko folded her arms. "I'm a detective. It's essentially my job to investigate them and respond accordingly," she said. "On that subject, if he's harassing you, why haven't you reported him?"
Sojiro rubbed the back of his neck. "Well, to be perfectly honest, I would have done that a good long while ago if he wasn't related to her..."
"...Her?" Kyoko asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Oh... forget about it," Sojiro said, by Kyoko's observation it seemed he had let something slip and didn't want to discuss it further. "Anyways, you haven't had dinner yet and I promised you curry, so I'll show you how to make it. I'll go get the pot ready, you grab the ingredients I ask for from the refrigerator..."
"This curry truly is remarkable, Boss," Kyoko said, giving a small smile as she finished her meal.
"It is, I told you I have a scientific genius to thank for perfecting it," Sojiro said with a nod.
"I appreciate you showing me."
"Well, it's your first real try at it, so like the coffee, you can practice when you want," Sojiro explained. "You got my instructions committed to memory, right?"
"Of course," Kyoko said. "Detectives require an excellent memory, after all. Even something seemingly trivial could become a valuable clue, later."
"Well, good to know, because I'm only sharing it once. Can't let my business be compromised after all!" Sojiro said with a light chuckle. "Keep it up, though, remember what I told you, and I'm sure you'll be mastering it in no time. You may even eventually find a way to give it your own special touch."
Kyoko couldn't help but smile a little, again. "Perhaps." she said.
The clock on the wall rang, signifying the late hour. "...Wow, it's that time already?" Sojiro asked, looking over at it, then glancing at his phone, which promptly hummed in his hand, as though a message had just been sent. "...I should probably head home."
Kyoko nodded, and Sojiro left to change out of his apron. "Boss?" she asked as he opened the door leading outside.
Sojiro sighed, frowning a little. "...I'm no detective, but I'd gather you're curious about a few other things that man mentioned regarding me, correct?" he asked. "Look, don't worry about it. It's nothing important and doesn't concern you. It was a long time ago. Go study or something once you've cleaned up, alright?"
Once he was gone, locking the door behind him, Kyoko glanced down at her finished plate, resting her chin on the back of her hand as she continued to stare at it.
That man had mentioned Sojiro had worked a well-paying job for the government at some point, and that he'd apparently not taken her in for the sake of getting paid. Her thoughts traced back to another time the man had showed up, mentioning a woman, and Sojiro had let slip the mention of a "her" as well. It made the young detective all the more curious of his past, and while she would have liked he tell her more, he was right it wasn't exactly her business.
Another thing on her mind as she took in the lingering smell left from her dinner and the coffee, was how different Sojiro was from her grandfather beneath his occasionally distant demeanor. His praise and encouragement were things she wasn't used to. A compassion she didn't get before she'd come here that made her feel a degree of acknowledgement, even if it wasn't as a detective. Not since...
The fire. Big sister. She pushed those thoughts away...
...Only for those regarding the argument with Ryuji earlier that day to come in their place. It irritated her she couldn't give him a straight answer without it feeling... not right. A feeling deep down as if she said something to make herself feel better rather then what she knew to be true.
The Detective Prince, Goro Akechi, a celebrity detective living in the limelight, practically the opposite of how the Kirigiris operated. She had every intention of proving him wrong, proving the Phantom Thieves were dedicated to justice and would not be cowed by money and influence. If he was as dedicated to his career as she was he'd have to concede to her once that happened... yet his overly polite and amiable demeanor he put on for the cameras had slipped a little when he'd talked to her, revealing someone much more observant and cynical of the world around him then she'd expected and more then her grandfather ever gave him credit for which left her curious of if that cynicism affected which side of the aisle he took as well... one she couldn't completely fault him on.
The matter of how he didn't regard her the way he would a random fan, or the way he did reporters or TV announcers. Was she simply someone he felt he needed to prove himself to, given the Kirigiri family's long legacy as detectives, or someone he believed he could hold intelligent and unbiased conversation with, she wondered. He seemed to see through her in ways others didn't, and she had noticed some things beneath his surface as well, despite them both having their way of masking their true emotions as if it were routine. Either way, it seemed to to some length they understood one-another.
Her father... Hope's Peak felt so close yet so far. She wanted to face him, and Ann had said she should hear him out rather then simply tell him off.
So much of all she knew of herself and the world around her had been completely upheaved. From her name being dragged through the dirt by a man had the courts brand her a criminal on nothing but his word, to being placed in Igor's "rehabilitation" that seemed to be part of some game she felt like a piece in, to what and who she'd become exposed to, now. She could feel her cold, stoic mask begin to slip again, with only the comfort of knowing no one was around to see it.
"Kyoko?"
It didn't last. She turned, seeing Morgana now at the foot of the stairs. If a cat could look concerned, he had managed to do so. "Yes?"
"It just got real quiet, so I came down to see if anything was up," the cat replied.
"It's nothing. Let's get this cleaned up," she said, getting up from her seat and taking the plate and the rest of the kitchenware to the sink and began to fill it. Morgana did not feel convinced, but said nothing as Kyoko carefully changed her gloves and set to work, remaining silent with her thoughts the rest of the time as she wondered what her own desire really was, now...
A/N At last the new chapter is done! This one was tough and I wanted to get things just right, Kyoko being a fellow detective teen and all and things would have likely gone a different direction in regards to how she responded then it did the original game. Hope you all enjoyed!
0 - The Fool: Rank 3
I - The Magician: Rank 3
V - The Hierophant: Rank 4
VI - The Lovers: Rank 4
VII - The Chariot: Rank 5
VIII - Justice: Rank 1
XI - The Strength: Rank 3
XII - The Hanged Man: Rank 2
XIII - Death: Rank 4
XIV - Temperance: Rank 1
XVIII - The Moon: Rank 3
XIX - The Sun: Rank 2
1 - The Councillor: Rank 4
? - Faith: Rank 2
Kyoko's Personas: Eligor, Shiisaa, Kusi Mitama, Suzaku, Jack Frost, Ame-No-Uzume, Orobas, Flauros