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!

96. Phantom Files Finale: Look To The Future

A/N: sithlorde1988 here, with another chapter of Persona 5- The Phantom Files! Hard to believe this chapter is actually the final chapter of the story, but alas, it is indeed as I said. We've officially reached the beginning of the end for this story. By the time this chapter is finished, Persona 5- The Phantom Files will be finished, leaving the way open for the eventual sequel that it will get that is a Strikers adaptation. So at least there's that to be excited for.

Mind you, I don't intend to jump right into that project. I intend to first take a bit to finish slowly pushing out the backlogged chapters of this story (which as of this chapter's release, should be down some from the initial 7 chapter backlog I had when typing this start-of-chapter A/N out, which I did on September 13th, 2023, which is the date I'm typing this on for timelining and reference purposes) as well as making gradual edits to the earlier chapters, several of which I noticed had some errors that needed correcting. I've already done such an edit for the first 6 chapters, and intend to edit the other chapters as time permits. So yeah, there's that. Now then, on with the disclaimer, yeah?

Disclaimer: I, sithlorde1988, do not own the Persona series in ANY way, shape, or form (excluding the OCs Kusa/Draconis, Sinocard/Asuk, the Malefactor, Somasi/Slim, Kyori, Akira, Lumine, Mimille, Minako, Momoe, and any other OCs that appear in this story, all of which are made by, and thus belong to, me unless otherwise noted), and the actual ownership credit for the Persona series belongs to Atlus, Sega, and to a degree, Koei Tecmo (Mainly insofar as the 'Arena' games, the 'Q' games, the 'Dancing' games, Strikers, Tactica, and Phantom X are concerned), so all credit to them!

And now that that disclaimer is sorted out, on with the final chapter of Persona 5-The Phantom Files! Here's chapter 96!

Chapter 96- Back to Reality! Consequences of Success! Phantom Files Finale

(In Odaiba, the morning after the end of chapter 95, with Yusuke, Haru, Makoto, Futaba, Sumire, Ann, and Ryuji)

"Didja see 'em, guys!?" Ryuji asked the others who were gathered outside of the former site of Maruki's Palace, after the group made a hasty retreat to the real world. The rest of the group shook their heads as Ann spoke up.

"No, nothing. I don't get it. Where could Morgana, Akechi-kun, Kusa-kun, and Ren be? We've literally looked everywhere we could think of." Ann said as Ryuji frowned and spoke up.

"Dude! This IS our original reality, right?" Ryuji asked as Sumire frowned and spoke up, her tone a mix of concerned, anxious and worried.

"I believe so, yes. How could we have gotten separated from them like this?" Sumire said. Yusuke pulled out his phone to look at something, only to frown and speak up.

"Well, regardless of where we are, the fact remains that the Meta-Nav is gone. So we don't even have a way to check anymore, I'm afraid." Yusuke said. Makoto spoke up after a moment, a worried look on her face.

"That's true. Well, at any rate, there's no point in worrying about it here. We should work all of this out somewhere else." Makoto said as Futaba spoke up.

"Good plan. You're right, Makoto. Also, now that I think about it, we've been out all night too fighting Maruki. Sojiro's probably worried sick about us. So, let's go to Leblanc." Futaba said as the group nodded and started to head to Leblanc, excluding Sumire, who blinked as she saw what appeared to be a piece of paper lying on the ground near her, making her blink as she picked it up and spoke up.

"Hm? Now what could this be?" Sumire mused as she heard Futaba call out for her.

"Sumireeee, let's goooo." Futaba called out as Sumire nodded and spoke up after blinking.

"Hm? Oh, right!" Sumire said as she tucked the paper into her pocket and caught up to the others...

(A short time later, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Sojiro, Yusuke, Haru, Makoto, Futaba, Sumire, Ann, and Ryuji)

As Sojiro sat up in the lower level of Leblanc reading his paper and nervously waiting for the return of the group, he heard the door open and looked up with a blink.

"Hm?" Sojiro said, looking up in time to see Futaba, Sumire, Makoto, Yusuke, Haru, Ryuji, and Ann walk in, after which Futaba spoke up.

"I'm home, Sojiro. Sorry we were gone so long." Futaba said. Sojiro frowned at the group as he set down his paper, glaring at them slightly as he spoke up.

"You didn't tell me you'd be out all night, you guys. How rude! You should've at least gotten in touch with me about it." Sojiro said as the group winced and Futaba spoke up while looking ashamed.

"You're right. I'm sorry, Sojiro. It's just been a very long, very hectic, night." Futaba said as Ann spoke up.

"Don't be mad at her, Boss. We're the ones who kept her out so late. If anything, we should be apologizing for her." Ann said as Sumire frowned and spoke up.

"Not only that, but we kept her out this long, AND we're all back so early in the morning to boot. We're awfully sorry, Boss." Sumire said as Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, stop apologizing so much. After all, being worried isn't exactly on my list of favorite activities. But with that said, I assume you had a good a reason for it, right?" Sojiro asked as the group nodded. Eventually, Makoto spoke up.

"Um, I apologize for the sudden question Boss, but have you seen Morgana, Kusa-kun, or Ren-kun at all lately?" Makoto asked as Sojiro blinked and spoke up.

"Uh, Ren? What are you bringing him up for?" Sojiro asked as Futaba winced at Sojiro's tone and spoke up.

"Err, do you know what his deal is right now, Sojiro?" Futaba asked as Sojiro spoke up, though when he spoke, several sets of eyes were wide at what he said next.

"Well, yeah, of course I do. He's been locked up since last year. As for Kusa and Morgana, they've been missing since last year. In Kusa's case, the last anyone saw of him was when he got caught in that trap Akechi laid for you guys that took both of them away from you, or at least that's what you told me. As for Morgana, he's been missing since you all went to topple that Mementos place on Christmas Eve." Sojiro said as he had seven confused faces staring back at him before Ryuji spoke up.

"For real? Locked up?" Ryuji asked as Ann frowned and spoke up.

"Wait, what's going on?" Ann asked as Sojiro spoke up with a frown.

"Wait, what're you guys talkin' about, asking about Ren, Kusa, and Morgana out of nowhere like this? Er, well, I was gonna ask you that, but now I'm getting a strange feeling that I've been seeing all three of them a lot fairly recently. Anyways, that's not important. Why don't you all take a seat before I go over Ren's situation?" Sojiro asked as the others nodded, having a seat at either a booth seat, or in the cases of Yusuke, Makoto, and Ryuji, a counter seat. After Sojiro's explanation, Yusuke spoke up with a frown.

"I see. So, Ren's in juvenile detention after turning himself in?" Yusuke asked as Sojiro nodded his head to confirm Yusuke's guess before speaking up.

"That's right. Well, I need to stock up on a few supplies before I open up shop for the day. Feel free to hang out here while I'm out." Sojiro said as a subdued looking Sumire nodded and spoke up.

"Thank you, Boss. We'll do that." Sumire said as Sojiro left. After he walked out of Leblanc, Ann frowned and spoke up.

"So, this is our original reality, right? Or, are we in another different one now?" Ann asked as Makoto spoke up with a frown.

"You know, these unexpected changes could actually be the result of our actions in our own reality recently. Remember how Ren was originally planning on turning himself in to the police around the start of the new year? He was originally asked to do so on Christmas Eve, but was able to get Sae to agree to wait until the new year before he turned himself in since he had plans to spend Christmas Eve with Sumire and her parents, and didn't want to break those plans." Makoto said as Haru spoke up.

"Right, and then Akechi-kun did it for him instead after his miraculous reappearance on Christmas Eve which, as I recall, shocked the heck out of both Ren and Sumire." Haru said as Yusuke spoke up.

"True, but that took place in Maruki's reality, which we just disposed of when we defeated his Shadow, which would mean Ren's currently locked up after turning himself in. But, why do I feel like we're missing an important detail, possibly involving Kusa?" Yusuke said with a frown. Ann spoke up at that point.

"Good question. I think it's because Kusa's technically considered missing right now, since we only saved him in that altered reality, and that only after Futaba's brilliant plan to hack past a locked door to get to the detention level of Maruki's Palace. So that means, everything that would've happened if it weren't for Doctor Maruki's intervention? All of it, instead of not happening, now has actually happened?" Ann asked as Ryuji spoke up while rubbing the back of his head.

"Possibly. Ya know, what y'all are saying's startin' to make sense, and possibly even too much sense. But in that case, in the real reality. Uh, I mean, the reality we're in right now, does that mean that we have to go and save Kusa again? And I thought Morgana returned to us before Maruki's intervention with the timeline? So what happened with Morgana and Akechi?" Ryuji asked in confusion. Futaba winced at this, realization hitting her hard as she spoke up in a shaky voice.

"Don't say it, Ryuji. I think I know. Just like with my mom, and possibly even Kusa, now Morgana's-" Futaba said, only to be cut off by the sound of a door opening, and a familiar voice speaking up.

"Hm? Did someone say my name?" Morgana's voice could be heard asking, making the others turn to glare at Morgana's sudden entrance, not even registering the ponytailed male carrying Morgana in their anger at the cat. Ryuji spoke up irately.

"Oh, come on! This again!?" Ryuji asked as Futaba huffed and spoke up angrily.

"UGH! Recycled gags suck! Why do you always hafta get us all worried like that, Morgana!?" Futaba said as another familiar voice could be heard chuckling as he spoke up, drawing the group's attention to exactly who was holding Morgana, as it wasn't Sojiro.

"Let's be fair here, Taba. If it was, as you say, a recycled gag, then why is it that you only seem to notice Morgana-sensei's presence and not actually see exactly who it is that's carrying him? Because I dunno about you guys, but I don't think Morgana could've opened that door on his own." The group heard, looking up and having their eyes get comically wide as they realized who was holding Morgana in their arms. Both Sumire and Futaba's jaws dropped as they recognized the male holding Morgana, but it would be both Haru and Makoto who actually voiced what the group had realized.

"Oh! Mona-chan's back!" Haru said as Makoto spoke up.

"More than that, he found Kusa-kun, who carried him back to us! It's a miracle!" Makoto said as a shocked Kusa barely had time to pass Morgana off to Makoto, who was the closest to him, before finding himself tackle-hugged by a pair of crying red-heads, eventually ending up on the floor with both Sumire and Futaba hugging him for all they were worth, the latter wasting little time in kissing Kusa in a both passionate yet eager manner. After Kusa was helped into a booth seat with Futaba, Haru spoke up.

"Mona-chan, Kusa-kun, how are you both here?" Haru asked as Morgana smirked and spoke up.

"Heh, it looks like it really was just the Metaverse me who disappeared. Eventually, I woke up in Shibuya. Had I not happened to walk into Kusa, who from what he told me, had only just made his way back to Shibuya himself, getting back here might have taken even more time than it did." Morgana said as Kusa spoke up.

"Yes, well, let the record show that having to engineer one's own escape from the detention level of an abandoned Palace isn't an easy or fast endeavor. Had it not been for the unlikely intervention of Akechi, I probably wouldn't have managed to escape and get back here. However, I haven't seen him since we parted ways on getting back to the real world, so who knows where he could be now?" Kusa said with a shrug. Ryuji huffed before smirking and fist-bumping Kusa as he spoke up after pulling him into a surprise one-armed manly hug.

"C'mon bro, don't scare us like that! We weren't sure what to think with you still being gone! It's bad enough your brother's gone and turned himself in and is locked up!" Ryuji said to Kusa, whose eyes widened as he spoke up.

"Wait, WHAT!? Ren's in jail!? What the heck did I miss!?" Kusa asked, somehow having momentarily forgotten about the whole plan to get Ren out of jail during his time in captivity. Ryuji spoke up.

"Quite a bit, actually. But never mind that now. If you're here, and Morgana's with you, does that mean Akechi's also alive?" Ryuji asked as Morgana's eyes widened in realization from in Ann's arms, where he was currently located. Haru saw this and spoke up.

"Hm? What is it, Mona-chan?" Haru asked as Morgana spoke up slowly.

"Well, you see. About him, you guys. From what Kusa told me, he was rescued by Akechi while escaping an abandoned Palace that he and Akechi had gone to in order to sort out their rivalry. However, on their way out of said abandoned Palace, he and Akechi were jumped by an army of Shadows, and got separated. I don't think Kusa wants to admit it, since it's a surreal idea to consider, but I believe that Akechi might have sacrificed himself once again, this time to ensure Kusa's safe escape from the Metaverse. So it might well only be thanks to Akechi that Kusa is back with us right now." Morgana said as Sumire winced before gasping as she spoke up.

"No, are you sure, Morgana-senpai!? I can't believe Akechi's potentially dead." Sumire said with a wince. Kusa spoke up.

"Neither can I, Sumire. But this IS Akechi we're talking about here. So let's not rule out the possibility that the slippery bastard managed to fight his way out and escape after me, only to slip off into the sunset. While it is a legitimate possibility that he did give his own life to save my own, I believe it's highly likely that he could've also used the opportunity to escape into the sunset, so to speak, and go into hiding.

So there's no telling when, if at all, we'll see Akechi again. But either way, I know I owe him a great debt for rescuing me from captivity. Had he not, I have no doubts I might have been left to rot in that place. And I suppose, in fairness, I did save him first, so this is just him repaying the favor. Even so, leave it to him to make himself into a damned martyr." Kusa said as Ryuji frowned and spoke up.

"What the hell, man? First Ren's locked up, and now Akechi might be gone? Dammit!" Ryuji said, lightly punching the counter as he kept speaking.

"I can't believe it. So he was fightin' that hard, knowin' he was likely gonna disappear the whole time. How dare he not say anything?" Ryuji said as Yusuke frowned and spoke up with a slight wince.

"I see. So, Ren's incarcerated, and Akechi is possibly dead? I thought I'd braced myself for the decision we made, but even still, I have to say. This truly is a harsh reality." Yusuke said as Sumire nodded and spoke up.

"I agree. We all decided to live our lives and look to the future from here, with no regrets. But even so, to think that our actions would have these consequences. I don't know about you guys, but I just can't accept Ren-senpai being stuck behind bars like this." Sumire said from her seat at the counter next to Makoto, having given up her previous spot at the booth so Kusa could sit next to Futaba. Morgana smiled and nodded his agreement from in Sumire's lap as Sumire kept speaking.

"Hm, what can we do? Oh, I know! Why don't we try to help him somehow?" Sumire suggested as everyone else's eyes widened at this before Morgana spoke up with a smile.

"Nice one, Sumire! I'm impressed with the idea!" Morgana said as Kusa frowned and spoke up.

"True, but how exactly are we supposed to help Ren out if he's in juvie right now?" Kusa asked. Futaba spoke up.

"Good question. But if I know us, we'll find a way to do it. Besides, I know you want to save your brother, Kusa." Futaba said as Kusa nodded before Ann spoke up.

"Yeah! I agree with Sumire! We won't put up with this injustice!" Ann said as Haru spoke up.

"But, as much as I agree with you guys, I think Kusa-kun had a point before. What can we do to actually help him get out of there?" Haru asked as Makoto blinked and spoke up.

"I know! I remember Sis telling me a while ago about his situation. She told me that in order to overturn a sentence, you need definitive evidence that proves the subject's innocence beyond the shadow of all doubt." Makoto said as Ryuji spoke up with a frown.

"Ah, I get it, I think. So, babe. What yer sayin' is, we just gotta find that evidence to prove RenRen's innocence and he's free. Um, do I have that right?" Ryuji asked as Makoto nodded and a determined Sumire spoke up.

"Then we're on the case!" Sumire said as Kusa spoke up.

"Um, just one problem with that. The only definitive proof I can think of would be that woman who Ren saved from Shido's drunk ass that night. And the last time I checked, no one knows where she lives nowadays. Granted, it's possible that she's still in Okinawa somewhere, but would she be willing to come forward now, this long after she threw Ren under the damn bus with her testimony, to set the record straight?" Kusa said warily. Morgana spoke up.

"Good point, Kusa. But it's still worth a try at least, right?" Morgana said as Kusa merely nodded, also wanting Ren to be free. Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"I see. In that case, there's no time for us to waste. We're going to show off what the Phantom Thieves are capable of, one last time!" Yusuke said as Futaba spoke up from next to Kusa, a determined look on her face.

"That's right! Let's go, everyone!" Futaba said as Ryuji pumped a fist and spoke up.

"Hell yeah! We're gonna save our leader, no matter what it takes!" Ryuji said as Kusa spoke up.

"Agreed. I might have lost one brother to stopping Maruki's plans, but I will not lose another! We're saving Ren, no matter what!" Kusa said as the others all gave off affirmative responses as they split off to handle different angles of trying to save Ren...

(At Makoto and Sae's house, with Makoto)

"Wait, what? Really!? Great! Now that we know the name, all we need is an address. Yes, you're right. We'll succeed if we all do it together. Sis has yet to say anything, but I believe she's looking into possible actions as well. As for me? I will look into EVERY viable solution. Heh, I see. Thanks, Ann. Make sure you give my regards to Shiho-san. Hm? Them? Oh, could we try getting their help as well? I'm sure they would gladly cooperate. Truly? That would be a great help. I'll leave that to you. Oh? Mm-hm. We'll talk again tomorrow. Let's save him, no matter what." Makoto said as she hung up the phone...

(Around the same time, in an interrogation room at the police station with Sojiro)

"I already told you once! There was NOTHING wrong with his conduct at all! I was his guardian, so I should know best. Hmph, I bet you're just trying to dig up some dirt. You probably want to pin a crime on him if you can. But I'm not gonna let that happen, do you hear me?" Sojiro said to the stern-faced officer across from him...

(Meanwhile, at Takemi's clinic with Takemi)

"And there you have it. I'll announce his name as the key figure in the completion of the medicine at the next conference. Furthermore, I've heard that Miwa-chan's progress is going well." Takemi said to the figure across from her, who was Miwa-chan's physician as it turned out. Miwa-chan's physician spoke up.

"Indeed, that's true, but is it all thanks to him?" Miwa-chan's physician asked as Takemi nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed it is. Also, I'm certain this will help prove his good character in the trials. Please. I want to increase his chances of being found innocent as much as possible." Takemi said as Miwa-chan's physician spoke up with a smile.

"Ah, I see. So that's why you're going to all this trouble, eh?" Miwa-chan's physician said as Takemi fixed him with a determined look and spoke up.

"Indeed. You'll cooperate too, right?" Takemi asked Miwa-chan's physician desperately...

(At that same time, in the faculty lounge of Shujin Academy, with Kawakami)

"This injustice cannot stand! And so, we need to release an official opinion from this school to object his arrest to the police! You'll ALL agree with me, correct!?" Kawakami asked her gathered co-workers, who murmured amongst themselves in surprise at her passionate speech. Kawakami frowned at the lack of immediate responses and kept speaking.

"Ugh, what good are teachers if they don't believe in their students!?" Kawakami rebuked her co-workers...

(Elsewhere, at around the same time, in an alley with Iwai and two others)

"Hm? Yeah, that's right. That's the kid. Also, you guys know someone from Public Security, right? I think you said his name was Hasegawa, or something like that? Won't you introduce me to him? I owe Ren a lot, and so I HAVE to protect him, using whatever means necessary. Please, you guys! I'm begging you!" Iwai asked the others with him, who exchanged shocked looks at Iwai's heart-felt plea... *1*

(Meanwhile, in Shibuya with Mishima)

"Excuse me, everyone? P-Please, I beg of you! Please help me collect enough signatures! I-I want to help a friend who's innocent! He's a really good guy! He always fights for the sake of others, no matter the cost. He's not just another student to me! He's my best friend!" Mishima said as he bowed to the crowds...

(At the same time, over at the Diet Building with Yoshida)

"Good people, please! Hear what I have to say! A certain young man is faced with a dilemma due to the unjust oppression by the government! He is suffering from a crime he did not commit! He is a promising young man who will support this country's future! What justice is there in a country without being able to save such an individual!? This cannot be allowed!" Yoshida said passionately as the crowd around him looked on with intrigue and curiosity, clearly impressed by Yoshida's words...

(Over in a certain church in Kanda, with Hifumi)

"Hm? Why yes, it's thanks to that young man. He's the main reason I was able to change my ways. You see, I would still be trapped in that awful match-fixing if not for his support, as well as that of one other. But this focus right now is on one young man. And now, even though he should by all accounts be considered a hero? This honest gentleman is locked up in juvenile hall, despite being innocent! That will not stand! And so, THIS time, I wish to be the one to come to HIS rescue!" Hifumi said emphatically as she spoke to the present reporters...

(While Hifumi's interview was going on, at a gym in Kichijoji with Sumire and Hiraguchi)

"Please! He doesn't belong in juvenile detention at all. I swear I'll make up for the missed practice. Please, let me take just a small break! Ah, are you listening, Coach?" Sumire said as Hiraguchi frowned and spoke up.

"I'm sorry, Sumire, but no deal." Hiraguchi said firmly as Sumire winced and spoke up.

"But, why?" Sumire asked as Hiraguchi smiled and spoke up.

"Because, Sumire. There's not much you can do on your own about this. However, I've got a few connections up my own sleeve that'll probably be more useful than simply doing your own legwork to save your boyfriend. I'll also try calling around to check if any of my other trainees have some useful info, Sumire. But, if I do this for you, it means you're continuing practice as scheduled, got it!?

I'm sure it's what Ren would want for you too, after all. He said he would always be there for you every step of the way if he was able to. So I think he'd want you to keep pursuing your dreams and trusting the others around you to handle saving him. But I'm sure he's flattered by the depths you're going to for him." Hiraguchi said to Sumire, who blinked before bowing and giving Hiraguchi a brilliant closed-eye smile and speaking up.

"Right! Thank you so much, Coach!" Sumire said happily as she went back to training...

(Meanwhile, back in the Velvet Room, with Ren, Igor, and Lavenza)

"It's unfortunate, Trickster. You escaped the prison of the heart only to be imprisoned in reality, by your own choice no less. Still, what a most ironic outcome. Your wish for others' happiness prevailed over your own. However, despite that, I feel as though all is finally well, Trickster. In the end, you willingly chose the correct path. Most importantly, you never compromised your values for your own well-being." Lavenza said as another card appeared in his hands, making Lavenza smile as she spoke up.

"Behold, Trickster. The final Arcana that you have acquired is 'The Universe'. It is the power for an individual to stand on their own two feet, swayed by none. Originally, it was going to be 'The World', but then your little brother appropriated that Arcana for himself. That said, that power shall fuel the hope shared amongst your friends and yourself, to strive towards a better future. With 'The Universe', you are no longer without a place to belong, and will never trudge a path alone again." Lavenza said as Ren absorbed the power of 'The Universe' into his heart as Igor smiled and spoke up.

"Well done, Trickster. Alas, my own duties end here as well, I'm afraid. But still, allow me to say one thing. You were truly a remarkable guest." Igor said as he broke up into particles of blue light and vanished in a flash of light, followed shortly after by Lavenza as the Velvet Room was surrounded by a brilliant glow and vanished in front of Ren, leaving him alone in a black room, with only a blue butterfly that flew past him as he stared into the empty space that was once the Velvet Room...

(A few days later, in a visiting room in juvenile hall, with Ren and Sae)

"Heh, long time no see. We met last on Christmas Eve, right? Um, is that right? Mm, never mind. Don't mind me. It's nothing." Sae said as she had a seat and kept speaking.

"I have two great pieces of news for you today. First, we finally managed to prosecute Masayoshi Shido. He'll likely be found guilty. I'm grateful for your cooperation with the trial. Your testimony proved to be very useful." Sae said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"I'm glad to hear that, Niijima-san. I'm just happy to hear I was able to help hold Shido accountable for his crimes. My only regret is that I had to leave my family to worry about me for so long. But I knew it was a necessary evil to ensure justice is served." Ren said wisely. Sae nodded and spoke up.

"I don't blame you for feeling that way, you know. And to be frank, it seemed almost hopeless at one point. But thanks to the civil protests, some of the more indecisive prosecutors came to our side. It will likely be some more time until the hearing begins, but this is the first step to true change. The only charges right now are for breaking election laws, breaking funding control laws, and bribery.

I knew that proving the Metaverse's existence would be difficult from the start, but even so, I still find myself dissatisfied. Shido did admit to all of his crimes though, including everything you know about. And now for the other piece of good news. As of today? You'll be free to go." Sae said as Ren's eyes widened and he spoke up.

"Oh? Why so suddenly, might I ask?" Ren asked, slightly stunned at how quickly he was being let go. Sae smiled and spoke up.

"That's easy. Shido's confession brought light to the truth of your case. We were able to prove your innocence in the original assault charge that led to your arrest. Your sentence will no doubt be rescinded. You're a free man. Also, the others did everything they could for you. All of them rallied in a way I could never have expected, including one who we both had believed was missing after the trap he and Akechi-kun fell into.

And their bringing in the woman who was the victim in your case as a witness was the turning point. To think that they'd be able to track down someone involved in a case from well over a year ago and get them to give their testimony so easily. That wasn't all, either. An unbelievable amount of support has come in from various other places as well. But regardless of this victory, that doesn't change the fact that the righteous Phantom Thieves are gone. All that remains now is for us adults to lead society in the right direction. But then again, I have to wonder if you believe what I say." Sae said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Of course I believe you, Niijima-san. We made a promise, did we not?" Ren said kindly. Sae smiled gratefully at Ren and spoke up.

"We did indeed, Amamiya-kun the elder. Thank you. Still, I'm glad I was able to save you in court. I've never felt so happy in my entire life. I'm not quite sure how to put it, truth be told. But, honestly? Saving your future meant more to me than my own career. I feel like you even taught me how to live." Sae said as Ren flushed in embarrassment and spoke up.

"Come now, Niijima-san. Surely you're exaggerating. I did little more than what I had to to ensure that I didn't fall victim to the plot set against me and my friends, no me and my family. Anything that it did for you was just the icing on the cake, so to speak." Ren said humbly. Sae chuckled and spoke up.

"Come now, Amamiya-kun the elder. No need to be modest. We both know that's not true. Oh, and by the way? There's been something that's been on my mind. What did the Treasure of my world turn out to be?" Sae asked as Ren spoke up.

"I don't remember, to be honest. If I recall right, we never actually took your Treasure successfully thanks to the fake-out we had to pull on Akechi-kun that day. I suppose I could ask Ryuji, Yusuke, or Kusa if they remember at all, since the former two actually prepped the fake briefcase, and the latter has pretty good memory." Ren said. Sae chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, I see. I can understand that response, and that's perfectly fine. This isn't an investigation, after all. Besides, I suppose it doesn't matter now one way or the other. There is actually one more thing. I haven't even told Makoto about this yet, since I wanted you to be the first to know. But I realized something after meeting all of you. My most prized 'treasure' is the justice I use to protect those important to me.

Makoto helped show me that as well. Also, once the Shido case is settled, I'm thinking of quitting my job and becoming a defense lawyer. I wanted to reform the system, but I'll have to leave that to someone else. However, going forward, I want to enact justice not for myself, but for the sake of others." Sae said as she got to her feet, smiling at Ren as she spoke up once more.

"Heh. Well, I need to go submit the paperwork for your release." Sae said, as she started to leave, only to turn around and speak up one last time.

"Oh, and thank you again for everything you've done. You truly were a tremendous help, Ren. Well, see you later." Sae said as she walked off, leaving Ren by himself. A short time later, Ren was walked out of the detention center by a guard, right as Sojiro pulled up in his car and spoke to Ren with a smile.

"Hey, kid. It's been a while, hasn't it? You know, I almost didn't want to come. But Futaba wouldn't quit bugging me to go and get her big bro out of jail, so here I am. So, you're a free man now, huh? Gotta say, it would sure look bad on me if you did something terrible again under my watch." Sojiro said as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"Understood. I have no intentions of causing you trouble, Boss. So don't worry. Also, thank you for coming to pick me up. I appreciate it." Ren said honestly as Sojiro smiled and spoke up.

"That's all I wanted to hear. Well, what're you waiting for? It's cold, so get in quick." Sojiro said as Ren smiled, loaded his bag into the backseat, and got into the front as the car pulled away from the detention center...

(A short time later, in a traffic jam with Sojiro and Ren)

"Ugh, it's not moving at all, is it?" Sojiro said as the radio came on with the voice of a newscaster.

"Due to the railway incident this morning, widespread delays have impacted the various lines, and the lines are expected to run late as a result." The newscaster said as Sojiro groaned and spoke up.

"Ugh. Another accident, huh? Heh, what a throwback. Reminds me of that day back in April, when you and Kusa first started living with me at Leblanc. Remember when we went to introduce the two of you at the school?" Sojiro asked as Ren smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, yeah. I remember. Nearly every staff member looked down their nose at me like I was some sort of criminal, and even you weren't that inclined to trust me at first. I forgive you for that, by the way. I know you were just doing your job back then and had no reason to trust in me. And Kusa? He was too busy being his usual snarky, cynical self, even if he insists otherwise. Granted, he's gotten a lot more mellowed, mature, and laid-back these days. But he still has his moments. But I think we both know who we can thank for his change, yeah?" Ren said. Sojiro chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, true. Who'd have thought Kusa and Futaba would be so good for one another? They've both managed to bring out a whole different side of one another. Wow, it's hard to believe it's almost been a whole year since then, huh Ren? Still, thinking back? I was pretty damned awful to you, throwing you in that storage room with only Kusa for company, and only a dingy futon and sofa to lay on.

But to your credit, the two of you didn't complain one bit and even managed to acclimate well to your living arrangements. And who'd have guessed that in the intervening almost year since then, that I'd have come to think of both of you as sons of a sort? Then again, soon you're gonna be headed back to where you and Kusa came from, aren't you?" Sojiro said as Ren smiled and nodded before Sojiro mentally shook himself to get rid of the depressing tangent he'd gone on as he kept speaking.

"Y'know, you've made some great friends here. You'd better thank them when we get back, all right?" Sojiro said as Ren nodded. After a while, Ren was dropped off outside of Leblanc, bag over one shoulder as Sojiro pulled away to park. After Sojiro walked over, he gave Ren a subtle nod, leading Ren to open the door, being blinded by the flash of light that ensued as he walked in. The moment he walked in, he had half a dozen people approach him between Yusuke, Haru, Ryuji, Makoto, Futaba, and Ann. Futaba smiled at Ren and hugged him before speaking up.

"Woo-hoo! Namaste, big brother!" Futaba said as Sojiro chuckled and spoke up

"Heh-heh, whoa. Wait, weren't there a few more of us we were expecting?" Sojiro said as Futaba spoke up.

"One of us is still at practice, and the other is getting ready right now, since apparently someone laid on his alarm and caused him to accidentally oversleep." Futaba said to Sojiro, who nodded as Ryuji spoke up.

"You did it, RenRen! You're free, bro!" Ryuji said as Yusuke smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"Heh, it has been a while, hasn't it?" Yusuke said as Ann gave Ren a closed-eye smile and spoke up.

"Not bad, Ren. You look fine." Ann said as Haru spoke up.

"I'm glad you seem well, Ren-kun." Haru said as Morgana padded forward and spoke up

"Heh, and the best for last. Me!" Morgana said as another voice spoke up huffily from behind the gathered group while glaring at Morgana.

"OI! Don't be such an effing liar, Morgana-sensei! You know damn well you're not the last of us by ANY means! And don't think you're getting out of that earful you have coming for smothering my alarm this morning by laying on it with all that damned fur of yours! I was counting on that to go off so I'd get up on time to be able to help surprise-" Kusa said as he came downstairs, only to find himself cutting his diatribe off mid-sentence and stopping short at the sight of a wide-eyed Ren as he smiled and easily parted the crowd to walk up and wrap his brother in a one-armed manly hug, thumping Ren lightly on the back as he kept speaking.

"Well, well! Speak of the devil! You look well for a man who just got out of juvie, Ren. Been a while, yeah?" Kusa said as Ren's jaw dropped briefly before he spoke up.

"KUSA!? You're safe? Last I heard, you were still trapped in the Metaverse!?" Ren said as Kusa spoke up.

"Heh, that's a long, LONG, story. I'll fill you in some other time. Suffice it to say, I had some unlikely help getting out, and we'll leave it at that for now in the interest of not spoiling the happy mood that your homecoming has set." Kusa said wisely. Morgana spoke up at that point.

"Yeah, yeah. Sorry for laying on your phone, Kusa." Morgana said to Kusa before turning to Ren as he kept speaking.

"Heh, so we meet again, Ren! Not gonna lie, bro. It's good to see you." Morgana said as Ren smiled and moved forward to pat Morgana on the head as he spoke up.

"Same here, little bro. Nice to see you back where you belong." Ren said kindly. Makoto smirked and spoke up.

"All right, now that Ren's back where he belongs, let's grab a table!" Makoto said as the group took seats, with Kusa, Yusuke, Morgana, Ryuji, and Haru getting counter seats, while Makoto, Futaba, Ann, and Ren got a booth seat together as Sojiro spoke up.

"I gotta head out and grab some groceries. I'm sure you guys have plenty to talk about." Sojiro said as he left, at which point Ann spoke up.

"Well, now that Ren's here, we're only missing one last person!" Ann said as Kusa spoke up gently.

"I think you mean we're missing two last people, Ann. But I don't blame you for not wanting to think about our missing comrade." Kusa said gently from next to Yusuke as Makoto spoke up.

"True, but we're not talking about him right now, are we? And Ann? She texted me a little while ago that she's finished with practice and heading here as soon as she can get here. As such, I'm guessing she'll be here any minute now." Makoto said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"I agree. As if she'd miss Ren's glorious return to Leblanc. She's been talking about how much she misses him a lot." Kusa said with a wry smirk as at that point, the door opened up, and Sumire walked in and spoke up as if summoned by Kusa and Makoto talking about her.

"Hey! Sorry I'm late!" Sumire said before her eyes widened at the sight of Ren smiling at her from next to Ann, making her gasp and speak up.

"Oh! Ren-senpai, you're back!" Sumire said before rushing over and eagerly kissing Ren, not even caring about the many witnesses. After a moment, a red-faced Sumire pulled away and spoke up.

"Ohh, right. Forgot about the rest of you for a moment. Umm, sorry about that, everyone. And Ren? Welcome back!" Sumire said happily as Ann smirked and had Ren get up so she could go claim the counter seat next to Haru, while Morgana found himself sitting in Kusa's lap after he lifted the cat off of the seat that Ann claimed from him, thus allowing Sumire to sit next to Ren, which she happily did. After she was seated, Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"All right, that's everyone!" Ryuji said as Morgana spoke up.

"Heh, I'm not surprised. Before I could even tell you to do so, you already took a seat next to your boyfriend. Mwehehe." Morgana said as Kusa spoke up.

"Are you serious, Morgana? She's been away from Ren for the last like 2 months or so. Of course she's gonna be by his side the instant she sees him. Give her more credit than that! We all know Futaba and Makoto would've done the same if it'd been me or Ryuji we'd just sprung from juvie instead of Ren." Kusa said wisely, ignoring the red faces of the two girls in mention, who stuck their tongues out at Kusa with identical childish expressions on their faces, making Kusa laugh at the display as Ryuji spoke up.

"But man, we did it! It went well, yeah!?" Ryuji said as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed it did, sweetie. I'm so glad we didn't give up." Makoto said as Yusuke spoke up.

"I concur. It was certainly worth the effort." Yusuke said as Ann spoke up while looking at Ren.

"To be honest, we didn't know what to do once you were gone, Ren. But, then we realized something. Even if we don't have the Metaverse or any special powers, we can still change reality." Ann said as Morgana nodded and spoke up.

"Lady Ann is right. And if we didn't do that at the very least, we'd be betraying the entire reason we stood up to Maruki to begin with." Morgana said as Sumire nodded and spoke up with a smile from next to Ren.

"I agree with Morgana-senpai. We'll oppose the injustices of this reality with our own strength, no matter what. That's what we all agreed upon, after all." Sumire said as a grinning Ryuji spoke up.

"And ever since then, we've been doin' just that, Ren. We've been busting our asses trying to get you outta the clink." Ryuji said as Kusa laughed and spoke up.

"Ryuji? You do realize you're the only one I know who uses that term, right?" Kusa said as Haru spoke up.

"But it wasn't just us, Ren-kun. Everyone who believed in you joined us." Haru said as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"Mwehehe! And thanks to that, we've got our leader back where he belongs!" Futaba said as Ren spoke up.

"Wow, I don't know what to say. Thank you all, so much! I'd never have gotten out of there if not for all of you, so I'm grateful to you all. And especially to you, Sumire. You never gave up on me, and your smiling face was what gave me the strength to keep going day after day while I was locked up." Ren said, smiling at the new cutely flushing Sumire after pecking her on the cheek gratefully, ignoring the laughs of the others around him. Ryuji grinned at Ren and spoke up.

"Heh, right back atcha, RenRen!" Ryuji said as Ann frowned at Ren and spoke up.

"Um, they treated you fine, right? Actualy, now that I think about it, you look a bit thinner than I remember. Did you lose some weight?" Ann asked as Yusuke spoke up.

"It would be quite understandable if you did. I've heard the food in prison is quite foul to behold. So, if you don't mind my asking Ren, what DID you eat?" Yusuke asked as Futaba spoke up with wide eyes.

"Oh, was it bugs? Fermented mackerel? Or maybe durian?" Futaba said as Kusa laughed and spoke up.

"Taba, sometimes I worry about that imagination of yours. But if I know Ren, he ate what he was given and liked it. Ren's never been a picky eater that I've seen. And I respect him a lot for that." Kusa said wisely as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"Exactly, Kusa-kun. You get it. And Futaba? You're missing the point." Makoto said as Ryuji spoke up.

"Truth, babe! Eh, but don't worry, RenRen. You're gonna get some good food soon enough, though. Boss is out gettin' stuff for our party right now. C'mon, everyone's back together! It's time to celebrate!" Ryuji said as a loud grumbling was heard, making Haru giggle as she spoke up.

"Hee hee! I guess you really were hungry, Ren-kun." Haru said as Ren shook his head and Haru kept speaking.

"Oh? That wasn't you?" Haru asked in shock as Kusa laughed and spoke up.

"Nah. That growl did sound masculine, but somehow I think it actually was the smiling redhead next to Ren who that came from. Am I right, Sumire?" Kusa said as an embarrassed Sumire pouted and spoke up.

"I hate that you know me so well, Kusa. But you're not wrong though. Um, sorry about that, everyone. That was me." Sumire said sheepishly as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Yep, I totally called it. Is it bad that I might almost know Ren's girlfriend better than he does at this point?" Kusa said jokingly, laughing as Ren playfully flipped him off a moment later. Yusuke smiled and spoke up.

"Ah, it was Sumire's stomach that made that noise." Yusuke said as Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"Yup. Also, I'd almost forgotten how funny Kusa and Ren can be when busting one another's balls." Ryuji said with a smirk. Kusa chuckled and spoke up.

"Well, Ren and I are brothers, Ryuji. Of course we're gonna give each other crap. That's what brothers do for one another." Kusa said as Futaba looked at Sumire and spoke up.

"Heh, hang in there, Sumire. Sojiro'll be back soon enough." Futaba said as Sumire meekly nodded, hiding her face in Ren's chest to not let the others see how red she was, making Ren smirk as he used the arm not snaked around Sumire's waist to lightly pat her on the head comfortingly, ignoring the grins on Kusa and Futaba's faces as Ryuji spoke up.

"Heh, givin' your girl a bit of love, eh RenRen? Oh yeah! Uhhh, RenRen? Sorry for not mindin' my business. But we heard from Boss. Apparently, you're goin' back home next month?" Ryuji said to Ren, who winced at the question and spoke up.

"Unfortunately, that is the plan. Both myself and Kusa are scheduled to take the train back to our hometown around the 20th of next month, though I might see about getting that pushed back a week so I don't miss a certain someone's birthday next month, eh Sumire?" Ren said to his still-blushing girlfriend, who mutely nodded from Ren's chest as she spoke up in a muffled tone.

"Yeah, it's true. My birthday is the 25th of next month. But don't feel bad if you can't be there due to going home, Ren." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up, not seeing the unreadable look on Kusa's face at the mention of the planned return of the two brothers to their hometown. Ryuji then spoke up.

"You're both goin'? What the hell!? Why can't you stay here?" Ryuji asked as he kept speaking.

"Sure, we proved you not guilty. But people're still gonna label you there, aren't they? And Kusa, aren't you sick of uprooting your life every time you have a good thing going?" Ryuji said to Ren and Kusa, the latter of which winced and looked away as Ryuji kept speaking, something both Morgana and Yusuke noticed, but Ryuji kept speaking before either Yusuke or Morgana could call Kusa out on his behavior.

"Ain't it just gonna be uncomfortable for the two of you, goin' back?" Ryuji said as Makoto winced at the visible departure of the previous happiness in the room and spoke up.

"Um, what's the matter? We were all so excited a moment ago. Well, how about this? If our leader is leaving, then the Phantom Thieves are truly disbanding, correct? Today, we can celebrate Ren's release from juvenile hall, and also commemorate the day of our formal disbandment." Makoto said as Ann spoke up, though Kusa was hard-pressed to tell if Ann was laughing or crying more as she spoke.

"Uh, what kind of commemoration is that?" Ann asked as Makoto winced and spoke up.

"Hey! I was serious when I said it, Ann!" Makoto said sheepishly as Haru smiled and spoke up.

"Well, it sounds like a good idea to me!" Haru said as Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"Heh, I guess you're right, babe. We just gotta double our excitement for today!" Ryuji said as Morgana spoke up.

"Um, about that? There's something I need to tell you guys. After some careful consideration, I've decided to go with Ren and Kusa when they leave. They're pretty special, after all. Plus we need someone besides Kusa there in case Ren turns back into a delinquent." Morgana said as both Ren and Kusa frowned and spoke up.

"HEY!" Ren rebuked the cat in annoyance as Kusa spoke up.

"That's rude, little bro. Also, if anyone here's gonna turn into a delinquent, it'd be Ryuji. But he knows we love him despite that." Kusa said with a smirk as Ryuji huffed and spoke up.

"I hate that you're not wrong, Kusa." Ryuji said in annoyance. Ren looked at Morgana and spoke up.

"Also, Morgana? I've never been a delinquent! So get your facts right." Ren said bluntly as Kusa nodded his agreement before turning to look at Morgana while he spoke up.

"This is true. Ren's always been a good boy. Why else would he have Sumire hanging off his arm like that right now? And those two look so adorable together, too." Kusa said with a smirk. Morgana blinked at this and spoke up.

"Really, Ren? Either way, I want you guys to add MY farewell party to the one we're having tonight!" Morgana said as Kusa huffed and spoke up while lightly patting Morgana on the head.

"Dammit little bro, I thought we talked about this. You told me you'd cut back on making everything about you! Besides, what if some of us would rather celebrate Ren being back where he belongs?" Kusa pointed out wisely. Ryuji spoke up with a nod.

"Truth, Kusa! Also, Morgana? Is that important?" Ryuji asked as Haru nodded and spoke up.

"Ryuji-kun is right. After all, the three of you aren't leaving for another month, right?" Haru said, not seeing Kusa wince at the question as she focused on Ren while speaking. Yusuke nodded his agreement as he spoke up.

"I agree with Haru. It is far too early for a farewell party." Yusuke said as Makoto nodded and spoke up.

"Good point, Yusuke-kun. Besides, that'll just muddy the purpose of this celebration." Makoto said as Morgana pouted from in Kusa's arms as he spoke up.

"Nrrrgh. WHAT!? How dare you!" Morgana said to the others before turning pleading eyes onto Sumire, who blinked as Morgana kept speaking.

"Sumire! At least you're on my side, right?" Morgana said as Sumire spoke up.

"Uh, me?" Sumire asked as Kusa spoke up.

"Don't answer him, Sumire." Kusa said to Sumire before looking down and glaring at the cat in his lap as he kept speaking.

"And as for you! You know that's dirty pool, dragging Ren's girlfriend into this! Besides, if anything, she'd be far more apt to want to celebrate her boyfriend's safe return from juvie, as opposed to the idea of already having to bid him farewell again. Learn some tact, little bro!" Kusa rebuked Morgana gently as he looked at Sumire and kept speaking.

"Heh, sorry about this furry little one. He's just a bit cranky because he's not the center of attention. He'll get over it, though. I think the more important thing is that you have Ren back in your arms again." Kusa said as Ren spoke up.

"I think you mean, I have Sumire back in MY arms. And if I have my way about it? I'm not letting her go, since this is where she belongs, in my opinion." Ren said as Sumire blushed but smiled at Ren as she spoke up.

"Isn't that my line, Ren-senpai? But you know I'd rather stay like this forever if I could." Sumire said as she leaned up to kiss Ren again, ignoring the near-unified cry of 'AWW!' from the others as they watched the tender moment between the reunited couple. After coming up for air, Sumire flushed and spoke up.

"Oh, right, sorry. You asked a question, didn't you, Morgana-senpai? Hm. Then, how about this? What say we call this a second-round welcoming party?" Sumire asked as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Wouldn't it be a like third or fourth round welcoming party, though? After all, this is like the third time he's come back to us since he became a Phantom Thief, as I recall. But Haru can correct me if I'm wrong on that." Kusa said as Haru nodded to convey that Kusa was right as Morgana smiled from Kusa's lap and spoke up.

"Heh, that's the ticket! My re-welcoming party! Nobody can complain about that! So, for the food at my party? I demand sushi! SUSHI!" Morgana said as the door opened and Sojiro walked in and spoke up.

"Man, you guys are loud. I could hear you from outside." Sojiro said as Kusa winced and spoke up.

"You could? Sorry, Boss." Kusa said sheepishly. Morgana saw Sojiro and spoke up.

"Chief! They're so mean!" Morgana said as Sojiro sighed and spoke up.

"Heh, noisy as always, aren't you?" Sojiro said as he walked over to Morgana, who spoke up indignantly.

"Hey! I'm not some ordinary, normal cat!" Morgana said as Sojiro smirked, took some food out of his bag, put it in his palm, and presented it to Morgana as he spoke up.

"I can't understand what you're saying to me, you know. Here." Sojiro said to Morgana, who spoke up in protest.

"No, I would much rather have sushi than something like-oh. Hrmph!? This is delicious!" Morgana said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Well, well. Looks like Boss has gone and tamed himself a Morgana." Kusa joked as Sojiro laughed and spoke up.

"Ha! Morgana's quite an assertive little guy, isn't he? I wonder where he got that from." Sojiro said, giving Kusa a significant look, making Kusa shrug and speak up.

"Eh, can't argue with you when you're speaking the truth, Soji-err, I mean Boss." Kusa said, making several people's eyes widen at his almost calling Sojiro by name. The ensuing silence was broken up by Morgana smugly speaking up.

"Surprised? Heh, that's just part and parcel of who I am, after all. I am the one, the only, Morgana!" Morgana said as Ryuji spoke up.

"Oh, stop tryin' to talk so big. You're just a cat now, you know." Ryuji said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Wrong, Ryuji. He's not just a cat. He's our brother, who happens to be a cat by some crazy coincidence." Kusa said, lightly patting Morgana on the head comfortingly as Morgana spoke up.

"Shuddup! I don't need to hear that from some dumb ape!" Morgana said as Ryuji got to his feet and glared at Morgana while speaking up.

"What was that!?" Ryuji said as Morgana spoke up with a smirk.

"See? It's things like that. You get angry so fast. Oh, and you're vulgar." Morgana said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"And you critique too much, Morgana. You need to learn to relax a bit and not nit-pick everything. After all, you don't see any of us trying to have a go at you, do you?" Kusa lightly but firmly rebuked Morgana as an irate Ryuji glared at the cat in Kusa's lap and spoke up.

"You little furry asshole! Why don't you go disappear again!?" Ryuji said as at least three different voices spoke up at the same time.

"RYUJI!/RYUJI-SENPAI!" Ren, Futaba, Kusa, and Sumire all rebuked Ryuji at the same time, the others all just shaking their heads in disappointment. Ann then spoke up.

"Ugh, shut up, you two! We're supposed to be celebrating, not fighting! At least Kusa's trying to break you two up a bit." Ann said as Makoto sighed and spoke up.

"What else is new? They're at it again, as usual." Makoto said as Sojiro chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, you guys never change, do you?" Sojiro asked as Futaba huffed and spoke up, making Kusa chuckle at what she said next.

"Seriously! They're all the same, even that weirdo Inari!" Futaba said as Yusuke huffed and spoke up.

"Wha!? Hey! Who're you calling a weirdo!?" Yusuke said as Sumire smiled and spoke up, her head leaned into Ren's shoulder as she spoke up.

"Heh, don't worry, Yusuke-senpai. Being weird is just a symbol of your individuality." Sumire said as Ann spoke up.

"Uh, you don't need to defend him about that, Sumire." Ann said as Kusa spoke up while giving Futaba a disappointed look.

"And Futaba doesn't need to be throwing shade at Yusuke like she does either. I know I told you to behave today, Taba. Now stop instigating before I have to deal with you later." Kusa said with a smirk as Futaba pouted and spoke up.

"Fiiine, I'll be good." Futaba said as she huffed and pouted while Ryuji laughed and spoke up.

"Hahaha! Well anyways, we're all here now! Let's kick this party off!" Ryuji said as Yusuke spoke up.

"Very well, let us begin." Yusuke said as Futaba spoke up.

"Sojiro! I want sushi!" Futaba said as the party got lively, even as Kusa huffed at Futaba stroking Morgana's ego...

(Later that evening, in the attic of Leblanc, with Ren and Morgana)

"Mmm. Delicious food, fluffy sheets, and a nice bed. I guess home is what you make of it, eh Ren? Even in this abandoned building of all places. Come to think of it, Kusa seemed rather evasive when the subject of our upcoming departure from Yongen-Jaya was brought up, didn't he? Oh, but never mind that for now. Hey, take care of me like this back home too, okay Ren? But seriously, real talk right now, big bro. So, uh, Ren? I wanted to ask you something. Remember the tail end of Maruki's Palace, when I was actually flying? That, uh, that wasn't a dream, right?" Morgana asked as Ren laughed and spoke up.

"It sure wasn't, Morgana. If nothing else, I remember hanging from your copter form with my grappling hook." Ren said with a nod. Morgana smiled and spoke up.

"Nice! Yeah, I thought so. But I still can't figure out how that was possible in the first place. So, this is just a theory Ren, but I think it might have been the Star that let me fly. Don't you still have that Star Jose gave you?" Morgana asked as Ren nodded and pulled the Star in question out, making Morgana gasp as he saw that the Star wasn't nearly as gorgeous as it had previously looked. Morgana then kept speaking.

"Hey, it's not shining anymore!" Morgana said as Ren nodded, noticing that the Star has lost its luster since the escape from Maruki's Palace. Morgana spoke up.

"This was shining the last time you looked at it, right? So it really was the effect of the Star that let me fly." Morgana said as Ren put the star away and Morgana kept speaking.

"Oh, that's right. Well, of course it was, now that I think about it! There's no other way that the idea of a cat converting into a helicopter could suddenly become a common cognition. Well, we're through with the Metaverse, and it only happened in the most extreme of emergencies, so it should be fine. Besides, I have a feeling that won't be happening again anytime soon." Morgana said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"That's true, Morgana. But also, have you considered that perhaps we used the last of the Star's power to help you fly? Because I feel like the Star might not have the same power that it once did anymore." Ren said as Morgana spoke up.

"That makes sense to me, Ren." Morgana said as Ren's phone went off, making him smile as he saw it was a private chat from Sumire, which he opened up to view it.

"I'm glad you made it back home safely, Ren! That said, I'm so sorry I couldn't see you more today. I had stuff to handle, and practice as well. I know you understand. However, if I could, I'd like to see you tomorrow night, if that's okay with you." Sumire sent as Ren's eyes widened as he recalled that tomorrow was Valentine's Day. Ren mentally swore as he realized he'd not made plans yet, but then recalled it was the girls' job to surprise the guy on Valentine's Day and relaxed as he sent a response.

"Of course that's okay, Sumire! Sorry this response took a second, had to recall what tomorrow was. I didn't get a good sense of the days passing while I was in juvie, you see. So it didn't immediately occur to me that tomorrow was Valentine's Day. That said, I'm more than happy to see you tomorrow night. Let's talk at my place, if you want." Ren sent as Sumire smiled and sent a response.

"Thank you so much! I'll see you tomorrow, then. Well, good night, Ren." Sumire sent as Ren put his phone away while Morgana spoke up.

"Heh. You never change, do you Ren? Come on, let's go to bed. You're working at the shop from tomorrow onward, right?" Morgana asked Ren, who nodded as he spoke up.

"That's correct. Boss apparently decided that it made sense to keep me out of school for the rest of the time until I return home. Oddly enough, I don't think he pulled Kusa out of school, though. Wonder why?" Ren said as Morgana shrugged before the two laid down for the evening...

(The following evening, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren and Sojiro)

"Oh, right. Today's Valentine's Day. No wonder there were so many guys bringing girls in here." Sojiro said before turning to face Ren as he kept speaking.

"Come to think of it Ren, don't you have anything exciting happening? I mean, you've been here nearly a whole year. Y'know, when I was young, hoo boy, I was one smooth operator, I tell you what." Sojiro said with a chuckle. At that point, the door of Leblanc opened up and a smiling Sumire walked in and spoke up.

"Um, sorry for barging in like this. Good evening. I didn't know you were still working, Ren. Sorry for stopping by so late." Sumire said as Sojiro blinked in shock before realization set in as Ren walked out to face Sumire, making him chuckle as he spoke up.

"Ohh, I get it. Heh, you should've just told me, Ren. Here, I'll leave the store to you. Enjoy yourselves, you two. Don't get into too much trouble." Sojiro said as he and Morgana left the shop at that point, leaving Ren and Sumire alone. After serving them both a cup of coffee, Ren sat in a booth seat across from Sumire and smiled at her as she blushed and spoke up.

"Um? That's considerate of Boss to take Morgana-senpai with him when he left. But, I hope I'm not imposing. Also, I know I already saw you recently, but I really wanted to have some time with you today, Ren. Especially considering it's Valentine's Day and all. So, I thought I'd stop by on the way home from practice." Sumire said as Ren smiled at his girlfriend happily and spoke up.

"That's fair. Truth be told, I'm glad I got to see you, Sumire. As I said before, your smiling face is one of the reasons I was able to get through that two-month period I spent in juvie." Ren said honestly as Sumire giggled at Ren's response and spoke up with a beautiful closed-eye smile.

"Hee hee! Same here. Ugh, and I had so much to say once I finally got to talk to you. But now that you're here, and I can see your face for myself? None of it seems so important anymore." Sumire said as Ren smiled, gently putting his hand over Sumire's and speaking up.

"I understand. And for what it's worth? I really am sorry that I made you worry so much about me." Ren said honestly to Sumire, who smiled and used her free hand to brush some stray hairs out of her face as she spoke up.

"It's all right, Ren. I understand why you did what you did. On another note, though, I brought you something." Sumire said as she pulled out a teddy bear that was holding a box of chocolates, smiling at Ren as she kept speaking.

"Ta-da! It's chocolates. Since, y'know, it's Valentine's Day today." Sumire asked as Ren spoke up with a smile.

"Did you do all this yourself, just for me? Wow, beautiful. I'm deeply touched by the lengths you went to for me." Ren said kindly. Sumire gave Ren a closed-eye smile and spoke up, flushing slightly at Ren's words as she spoke up.

"Hee hee. Normally, I'd find that a little melodramatic, but I'm glad to hear it. Really." Sumire said as Ren got a 'Sumire's Chocolate' item. Sumire frowned as she kept speaking.

"Just checking, Ren. But, um, we're back in the real world, right?" Sumire asked as Ren smirked, quickly grabbing one of Sumire's hands and pressing a kiss to the back of the hand in question, making Sumire blush prettily as Ren spoke up.

"Did that feel real to you? If so, then we're back in the real world." Ren said as Sumire shyly smiled and spoke up.

"Umm, thank you. Yes, that felt quite real. Oh, right. I wanted to say something else. Ren, I've not forgotten what you taught me. Ever since that day, I've finally been living for myself. As myself. And from now on, I always will." Sumire said honestly as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Good to hear, beautiful. I'm proud of you, you know." Ren said to Sumire, who flushed slightly as her heart started beating a bit faster as she spoke up.

"T-Thank you. S-So, um, if you don't mind, Ren? May I sit next to you?" Sumire asked as Ren smiled and nodded as he spoke up while scooting over and playfully patting the seat next to him.

"By all means, beautiful. Come and sit next to me. I don't bite." Ren said teasingly as Sumire nodded and sat next to Ren before speaking up.

"Thank you, Ren. Um, so you're going back to your hometown soon, yes?" Sumire asked as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Yep, that's the plan. As far as I know, myself, Kusa, and Morgana are scheduled to take the train home on the 20th of next month, though I might see about pushing it back a week so I can be here for your birthday at least before I go. But, y'know, you're always welcome to come along with us, if you ever found yourself wanting to come with me." Ren said honestly. Sumire giggled as she spoke up, looking into Ren's eyes as she spoke up.

"Hee hee. It's sweet of you to ask, Ren. But I'm okay with us being long-distance for a while. Either way, I'm going to keep working hard. And wherever you end up, I'll make sure you hear about me. After all, she always said she performed best when thinking about someone she loved dearly. I think that I finally understand Kasumi. Or, at least I think I understand what she was trying to say. When I think about you, Ren? I get the feeling the competition's going to go just fine." Sumire said as Ren blinked at her and spoke up.

"You mean to say that I give you inspiration, don't you?" Ren asked in surprise, smiling at Sumire as he looked into his girlfriend's eyes. Sumire giggled as she laid her head on Ren's shoulder lovingly and spoke up, knowing she planned on spending a romantic evening with Ren.

"Hee hee, I think you know what I mean, Ren. Also, I lied before when I said I was on my way home from practice. I already called my parents and they gave me permission to spend the night with you, provided I take the train to school from here in the morning. So I brought a change of clothes and everything." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"In that case, what're we doing sitting around downstairs? I know for a fact that Boss has Kusa and Morgana staying with him and Futaba overnight, so we have the place to ourselves. What say we move this upstairs so we can get more comfortable?" Ren asked Sumire, who blushed prettily but nodded as she shyly followed Ren upstairs, trying not to let her heart beat too fast as she started having an idea of where this was headed, and finding herself oddly excited for it, especially since she had a hidden motive in her plans to spend the night with Ren.

After the two got upstairs and Ren locked up the cafe while putting the chocolates in the fridge to keep them from melting before he could eat them, he smirked at the sight of Sumire sitting on his bed waiting for him, having already ditched her sweater and scarf, leaving her in a very appealing tank top and sweats which Ren smiled at as he kicked his shoes and socks off before pulling Sumire gently down into his arms to eagerly kiss her passionately, wanting to love on her as much as he could. After the two made out for a bit, Sumire smiled at Ren as she spoke up shyly.

**M-Rated Content Starts Here. If you have no interest in reading this sort of scene, skip down to the section marked *END OF M-RATED CONTENT* to continue the story, otherwise you read on at your own risk. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. LEMON STARTS NOW.**

"Umm, Ren? If it's not too sudden or awkward for you, c-could we possibly, y'know, do what we did back in November? But maybe go all the way as well this time?" Sumire asked shyly, her face flushed bright red in embarrassment at her own question as Ren smirked and spoke up.

"Well, well. Look who's feeling bold and daring. I like it. Are you sure you're ready for that? I'm willing to do that with you, but I want you to be sure you won't have any regrets about doing that with me. After all, once we take that step together, there'll be no going back, since losing one's virginity isn't a decision that can be undone, especially for a woman. So are you absolutely sure you want this, Sumire?" Ren asked Sumire, who blushed prettily but nodded as she spoke up.

"Yes, Ren. I'm positive." Sumire said before gently nipping at Ren's lower lip, making his jaw drop a bit as Sumire smirked and slid her tongue into Ren's mouth to deepen the kiss, making Ren moan appreciatively into the kiss as he spoke up.

"Wow, who knew you had such a possessive streak, Sumi? Yet, I find myself oddly here for it. Lead on, beautiful." Ren said playfully as Sumire smiled and nodded before reaching up to tug the tank top she had on over her head, tossing first it, then her sweats, to the ground, leaving her in just a matching maroon bra and panties set that had Ren blushing profusely as he realized it was the same set he'd caught her modelling before, which had Ren's heart both skip a beat and beat faster as he got to see it up close. Ren then wasted little time in divesting himself of his sweater, scarf, and shirt, as Sumire eagerly discarded Ren's pants, leaving him in just his boxers as Sumire spoke up.

"Looks like you're as excited for this as I am, Ren. Now for the next step." Sumire said as she boldly yet shyly reached behind her back to unhook, remove and toss aside her bra, letting her modest yet small-C cup breasts fall free for Ren to see, making him smile as he spoke up.

"Ah. I see they got a bit bigger in the time since I last saw them, eh? Not that I minded them before. All of you is perfect, Sumire. And I count myself blessed each time you let me see all of you." Ren said, gently running a finger over the closest breast to him, enjoying the shudder his actions drew from Sumire as his fingers slowly yet lovingly traced circles around the pert and perky areolas on display, eventually leaning down to lovingly kiss the breast in the hand not currently teasing Sumire's breasts, making Sumire shudder and moan involuntarily at the feel of Ren's tongue on her skin. Sumire pouted and spoke up.

"R-Ren! Don't tease me like that! You know that turns me on, dammit!" Sumire said petulantly as Ren nodded and started trailing kisses lovingly down her stomach as he reached for the waistband of Sumire's panties, waiting for her to nod her consent before sliding them slowly down her legs and tossing them aside as he took in the very lightly damp signs of Sumire's desire for him, smiling at it as he gently pressed a kiss to the just-visible nub between her legs as he lovingly ran a finger along it, making her shudder as she spoke up in a husky tone.

"R-Ren, keep going. Your touch feels sooo good." Sumire said breathlessly as Ren nodded, proceeding to eagerly slide his tongue into the gently-parted folds of skin between Sumire's legs, affectionately licking the opening that was created by Ren's fingers, and making Sumire's breath catch in her throat as she gave off a throaty moan from Ren's attentions as she spoke up.

"Ren, keep going! Oooh, shit, that's amazing! I love that." Sumire said as Ren nodded and kept doing what he was doing. A short time later, Sumire whimpered as she felt her walls shake a bit from Ren's tongue as she spoke up.

"R-Ren! I think I'm getting close!" Sumire said as Ren smirked and nodded, licking more as he wrapped his whole mouth over Sumire's womanhood right as he felt Sumire arc backwards and he felt a burst of warmth in his mouth as Sumire climaxed in his mouth, smirking as he took in the taste of his girlfriend's release before removing his mouth to lean up and lovingly kiss Sumire, who blushed and spoke up.

"H-Hey! No fair that only I have to take it all off! I want to see you too." Sumire said in a whiny tone as Ren laughed and spoke up.

"Don't be like that, beautiful. I wasn't gonna leave you hanging." Ren said as he slid off his boxers and tossed them to the ground, letting his erection fall free for Sumire to see, making her blush as she was once more reminded of just how huge her boyfriend was. Sumire blushed and spoke up.

"I forgot how big that was. I hope it all fits inside me, Ren." Sumire said as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"Don't worry, Sumire. I'm sure it will. But just a heads-up? From what I've seen online when watching stuff like this for reference, it's often painful for the woman her first time, so if you feel any sort of discomfort after this next step, please tell me, and I'll stop to give you time to adjust to having me in you. That said, this first part will likely hurt you somewhat. But we can proceed whenever you're ready." Ren said as Sumire nodded and spoke up.

"T-Thank you. I don't want to wait, though. I need you in me, Ren!" Sumire said as Ren smirked and nodded, slowly sliding himself into Sumire until he was buried in her entrance up to the hilt, stopping just short of her barrier, knowing this next bit would hurt. Ren then spoke up.

"Ready, Sumire?" Ren asked as Sumire nodded once, moaning audibly as she felt Ren penetrate her barrier before whimpering slightly at the small discomfort that followed his penetration of her. Ren heard this and stopped to give Sumire time to adjust. After a couple of minutes, Sumire smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"I-It's okay now, Ren. Keep going." Sumire said as Ren nodded and started thrusting into her again, enjoying the appreciative moans she gave for his efforts as he thrusted into her. For quite a while, the two remained lost in the bliss of their lovemaking as they made out passionately while Ren thrusted into Sumire. After a while, Ren felt Sumire arc backward a bit as she moaned eagerly and spoke up breathlessly.

"Ooh, that's amazing, Ren. But I think I'm getting close again." Sumire said as Ren nodded and kept upping the speed and intensity of his thrusts. After a bit longer, Sumire moaned as she spoke up, her breasts slightly bouncing up and down as she shuddered in a mix of anticipation and euphoria.

"O-Oh! I think I'm gonna-! OHHH! YES! REN, I'M COMING!" Sumire said, practically screaming Ren's name out as she felt her walls constrict on Ren's shaft as she climaxed once more, the friction of her release driving Ren over the edge into his own release, in which he felt at least a couple loads shoot off into Sumire's womanhood, after which the two collapsed on top of each other, both panting, but happy with what they'd just done. Ren smiled as he wrapped his arms around Sumire and spoke up after pulling a blanket over their naked bodies.

**M-Rated Content ends here for those who skipped the preceding lemon. STORY RESUMES HERE**

"So, be honest with me, Sumi. Was your first time everything you wanted it to be?" Ren asked as Sumire nodded and spoke up.

"Mm-hm. It was everything I wanted and so much more! I love you so much, Ren. I'm happy that you were my first lover." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"The feeling is definitely mutual, Sumire. I'm glad you were my first time as well." Ren said as he smiled at the feeling of holding his girlfriend close, enjoying the skin-to-skin contact the two were currently sharing as Sumire smiled and spoke up.

"Mm. Me too, Ren. I-Oh, crap!" Sumire said, her eyes widening as she remembered a key detail they'd forgotten about in their eagerness and kept speaking.

"We forgot protection, Ren!" Sumire said as Ren's eyes got huge and he spoke up while smiling as he looked lovingly into Sumire's eyes.

"Shit! You're right, Sumi. Umm, oops? Oh well, too late to regret it now. As a wise person I know once said, 'What's done is done.' That being said, if we have consequences that come about as a result of what we just did, we'll face them together. I promise you that. So let's not worry about it now, yeah?" Ren said as Sumire smiled and nodded contentedly, her head resting on Ren's shoulder as the two snuggled together, happily dozing off at that point...

(The next morning, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren and Sojiro)

Sojiro smirked at Ren as he came downstairs after realizing Sumire had left for school without him, already dressed for the day in a spare winter outfit, having tossed his and Sumire's discarded outfits into a bag, since luckily, Sumire brought a change of clothes for school. After seeing Ren come down, Sojiro spoke up.

"Morning, playboy. And perfect timing, too. You've got a guest." Sojiro said to Ren, who looked over in time to see Sae standing at the counter, smirking as he walked over and spoke up.

"Well, well. I didn't think I'd see you again this soon, Niijima-san." Ren said as Sae nodded and spoke up.

"Well, you did. Anyways, sorry to bother you this early in the morning. I was wondering if you'd like this. There's no obligation, of course." Sae said as Ren got a 'Sae's Giri-Choco' item from Sae. Sae kept speaking once Ren accepted her chocolate.

"You've helped me through a lot. I wanted to express my appreciation. Um, sorry for how this is coming off. I didn't mean for it to seem like I'm just dumping my leftovers off on you." Sae said as Ren spoke up.

"Not at all. Thank you, Niijima-san." Ren said politely to Sae, who smiled as she spoke up.

"If anything, I should be the one thanking you. So yeah, let me do that now. Thank you, Amamiya-kun the elder." Sae said as Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"Well, look at this hotshot. Lucky guy, having a gorgeous lady drop by this early just to give you treats." Sojiro said as Ren gave Sojiro a look that said 'drop it!' before Sae chuckled and spoke up.

"I hope you don't mind that I dropped by today. No doubt you already got some from someone special?" Sae asked as Ren's eyes widened while he nodded and turned to Sojiro and spoke up.

"Boss? Did anyone take a teddy bear with a box of chocolates in its' arms out of the fridge since last night?" Ren asked as Sojiro checked, and shook his head as he walked over to open the fridge briefly, confirming that the bear was still where Ren had left it, getting a sigh of relief from Ren as Sae spoke up.

"I'll take that as a yes. Well, I should really be going, anyway. Sorry to impose. And this is hardly the end of my debt, of course. Chocolate isn't going to cover all that you've done for me. Well, see you around." Sae said as she turned and left, leaving Ren to shake his head as he went out for a walk after asking Sojiro to make sure that chocolate was still in the fridge when Ren got back to Leblanc, as it was a present from Sumire that he intended to eat later, getting an affirmative nod from Sojiro. A short time later, he was stopped by Ann, who spoke up with a closed-eye smile.

"Oh, Ren! Morning! We usually don't run into each other here, huh? Oh yeah, here. Before I forget, this is for you." Ann said as she put an object in Ren's hand, which turned out to be an 'Ann's Giri-Choco' item. Ann smiled at Ren as she spoke up.

"I was going to give it to you at school, but as long as we're both here, I figured why not? Have some chocolate. You know, for Valentine's Day." Ann asked as Ren smirked and spoke up.

"As friends, right? I think we both know there's only one person you'd give a chocolate to as lovers, and she's a she." Ren said with a smirk. Ann nodded and spoke up.

"Yep, you're correct. Last I checked, your name isn't Shiho, so you'll have to settle for it being a chocolate between friends. So yes, as friends! Close friends! After all, I'm not trying to take you from Sumire! You two are adorable together! Um, but did something happen between you two yesterday? I noticed that Sumire was walking a bit tenderly this morning when she got to school." Ann said as Ren spoke up.

"Tell you what, Ann. Ask me no questions, and I'll tell you no lies. Basically, the answer to your question isn't one a gentleman would give." Ren said as Ann blinked and spoke up.

"W-Wait, for real!? OMG, that means I won my bet with Shiho! YESSSSSS! Hee hee, I get a sexy shoulder rub next time I see Shiho! YAY! Oh, and good job! Um, I'll be counting on you, bro!" Ann said, realizing how embarrassing what she'd just said was. Ren merely nodded as he kept walking, heading to school...

(A bit later on, at lunchtime, in the halls of Shujin, with Ren and Makoto)

Ren heard his name called and turned to see Makoto walking over, blinking at Ren.

"Hm? Oh, Ren. Great timing. I was just headed to your classroom, as it turns out. Here. Take this." Makoto said as she placed a chocolate in Ren's hand, giving Ren a 'Makoto's Giri-Choco' item. Makoto then kept speaking with a closed-eye smile.

"It's chocolate. Think of it as a token of appreciation for all you do for us." Makoto said before smiling as she kept speaking.

"Sorry it's not bigger, but I gave my big chocolate to Ryuji last night. Judging from his reaction, he was definitely grateful." Makoto said, her face flushing slightly as she recalled how vigorously Ryuji had thanked her the night before. Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Don't worry about it, Makoto. It's the thought that counts, after all. Thanks." Ren said gratefully. Makoto shook her head and spoke up.

"Heh, don't worry about it, little bro. It doesn't have to be a big deal. See you again soon, okay?" Makoto said as Ren nodded and kept going...

(After school, at the entrance of Shujin, with Ren and Haru)

As Ren made to leave school for the day after getting his chocolates from most of the girls at school, Haru spoke up after stopping him.

"Oh, hello, Ren-kun! I'm glad I caught you before you left, little bro. I wanted to give you this." Haru said, placing some chocolate in Ren's palm, giving him a 'Haru's Giri-Choco' item. Haru then winced as she spoke up.

"I thought it'd be best to wait until today. After all, if you got one from someone special, I wouldn't want to intrude! After all, you always do so much for me. This is the least I could give in return." Haru said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Thanks, big sis. I appreciate it." Ren said sincerely. Haru smiled and spoke up.

"Of course! We should get coffee again sometime, too." Haru said as Ren spoke up.

"That could work. Though, maybe let's wait until you get someone special to go with, so we can make it a double date. That way I can invite Sumire along with me as my date." Ren said wisely as Haru nodded and spoke up.

"That'll work. Once I get a boyfriend, we can do that. Just let me know when you're free." Haru said as Ren nodded and left the school. On his way to the station, he heard his name called, stopping once more, before blinking in surprise as Hifumi walked over and spoke up.

"Oh, hello there, Ren-kun. I'm glad I got to see you. I'm relieved you're safe and sound. If nothing else, it's a weight off my mind. But also, I'm sure Yusuke is relieved too, since he was quite worried for you while you were locked up. Hee hee. And on that note, I have a small gift for the occasion. If you'll kindly accept it, of course." HIfumi said as she reached into her bag and placed something in Ren's palm, which turned out to be a 'Hifumi's Giri-Choco' item. Hifumi smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"From what I read online, apparently these days people give chocolate to friends, even when it's purely platonic. It seems like a fine opportunity to celebrate your return, and express my gratitude." Hifumi said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Thank you. Your gift is much appreciated, Hifumi. I'll gladly take it." Ren said kindly. Hifumi smiled at this and spoke up.

"Good. I hope shogi brings us even closer together." Hifumi said as Ren blinked and spoke up.

"Okay? You do recall you're dating Yusuke now, right?" Ren asked as Hifumi nodded and walked off, leaving Ren to head back to Leblanc. Once there, he was surprised to find Takemi at the counter waiting for him. Takemi smiled at Ren and spoke up once he was inside Leblanc.

"Welcome back. I wasn't sure I'd even see you, but if nothing else? I can call this good timing. Here. Take this." Takemi said, reaching into her pocket and placing something in Ren's palm, which on closer inspection turned out to be a 'Takemi's Giri-Choco' item. Takemi smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"Here, it's nothing much. Figured you deserved a little appreciation." Takemi said as Ren spoke up.

"Are you giving me this as a friend? I really hope so, since I'd hate to have to let you down gently if it was meant as a lover, since I'm already very much spoken for." Ren said gently. Takemi giggled and spoke up.

"Heh, I wonder? Who knows? Don't get your hopes up, though. Also, I wasn't going to make a move on you. For starters, you're too young for me. And also, I'm not a homewrecker, so you're safe, Amamiya-kun the elder. That said, it sounds like you've been through a lot. It's kind of a relief to see you're the same as ever. Remember, I'm pretty close by if you ever come down with something. Call whenever you need to." Takemi said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Got it. I'll keep that in mind." Ren said as Takemi nodded and spoke up.

"See that you do, guinea pig of mine. See that you do. Well, see you later then." Takemi said as she left. A little while later, Sojiro walked up to the attic and spoke up as he saw Ren looking at his phone, probably expecting a private chat from Sumire. Sojiro then spoke up.

"Hey, Ren? I know it's sudden, but could you watch the store? I gotta head out for a bit. Think you can keep an eye on things?" Sojiro asked as Ren nodded and manned the counter. Right around the time he got to work the door opened, and Kawakami walked in, to Ren's surprise. After approaching the counter, Kawakami spoke up.

"Oh, were you working? Sorry to distract you. I thought I'd stop by on the way home from work. Partly so I could give you this." Kawakami said as she dropped an object on Ren's palm, which turned out to be a 'Kawakami's Giri-Choco' item. As Ren accepted the chocolate, Kawakami gave Ren a closed-eye smile and spoke up.

"You've done so much for me, after all. I wanted to say thanks." Kawakami said as Ren spoke up.

"I'll gladly accept this, Miss Kawakami. But, um, I hope this wasn't meant to be a romantic gesture or anything like that. I have a girlfriend, after all." Ren said gently. Kawakami winced at that and spoke up while rubbing the back of her head.

"Of course not, Amamiya-kun the elder. I already told you, I don't do that sort of thing with my students. Do I look like Mister Kamoshida to you? Anyways, that said, I also wanted to tell you something. Oh, I meant to say it to you at work, but forgot. Anyways, welcome back. I'm glad you're safe. Oh, right, nearly forgot." Kawakami said as she put another object in Ren's hand, in this case a guide of sorts. Kawakami kept speaking after Ren gave her a confused look.

"I whipped up a little study guide for the classwork you missed. It should cover most of the important stuff. If you're still having trouble with any of it, you can always ask me, okay? I'm your teacher, so that's my job. Anyway, I'll see you at school." Kawakami said as she left. A little while later, as Ren went out to close up the shop for the night, he heard his name called, turning around to see Futaba walking up and speaking up.

"Oh! Perfect timing, big bro. You got a sec?" Futaba asked as Ren nodded while Futaba smiled and kept speaking.

"Cool. I just wanted to give you something. Don't worry, I'm not gonna make it weird. Just wanted to give this to you alone, since if Sojiro saw, he'd get ideas and start freaking out. It was bad enough that Mom thought the wrong thing about us in that other reality. So, here you go!" Futaba said as she handed Ren a small object, to which Ren noticed it was a 'Futaba's Giri-Choco' item, making him smirk as he spoke up.

"Thanks, little sis. I hope you gave a bigger one than this to Kusa, though? After all, last I checked, he's the one you're dating, not me." Ren said teasingly as Futaba flushed and spoke up.

"Shut up! But yes, I gave him a giant chocolate. And Kusa may or may not have gotten a bit eager in thanking me, or was it that I was getting a little too eager to see him? I forget. Either way, consider what I just gave you a chocolatey gift. Y'know, for my friend, squadmate, and big brother. If you wanna pay me back, I'll take a year's supply of instant noodles." Futaba said as Ren frowned and spoke up.

"A year's supply of instant noodles!? For one tiny square of chocolate!? Is that really considered to be a fair trade? Also, that's a lot." Ren asked in surprise. Futaba giggled and spoke up.

"Hee hee, your face is so priceless, big bro! What, you thought I was serious? Relax! It's just a gift from me to you. Because you're my key item, right? And you always will be, even if we're just siblings and/or friends." Futaba said as Ren nodded, heading back into Leblanc to clean up the shop before going to bed for the night...

(Time skip- Evening of February 16th, in the attic of Leblanc, with Ren and Morgana)

As Ren and Morgana relaxed on the bed, the former's phone went off with a private chat from Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Sumire, and Kusa. As it turned out, Akechi and Futaba were both notably absent from the chat, with Kusa sending the first response.

"Sorry for the late-night group chat, but I just recalled that a certain someone we all know has a birthday coming up on the 19th, and I wanted to pick your brains on the idea of planning a little party for her. Granted, I already have a few ideas in mind for things I can do for her that day, but I wanted to get your input too, since she's a part of this group." Kusa sent as Ann sent the first response.

"Ah, I see. So Kusa's trying to make his girlfriend's first birthday with a boyfriend a memorable one? Hee hee, that sounds like him. Still can't believe Akechi-kun's not in the chat anymore, though." Ann sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Truth! He might have been an asshole, but not even he deserved the fate he got. I wouldn't even have wished that on Kamoshida, and we all know how much I hated that guy." Ryuji sent as Yusuke sent a response.

"And that's saying a lot, since as I recall, you hate him a lot. But we were talking about a party for Futaba, right? She's not that artsy that I recall, so I might not be much help here, unless you want me to do a specific painting for her?" Yusuke sent as Kusa sent a response.

"Hm, I might keep that in mind, Yusuke. But I wasn't expecting much from you, so you're fine. I recall Futaba's a pretty big gamer girl, so maybe some sort of gaming-themed party could work? Or failing that, we could try to organize a dance party? I know she once mentioned being interested in dancing. So that's an option." Kusa sent as Makoto sent a response.

"But can we organize a dance party where there's not a big crowd involved? I recall she gets crowd anxiety pretty easily still. So we should be mindful of that." Makoto sent as Haru sent a response.

"Good point. Hm, but what if we booked the Crossroads again, like we did for Ann's birthday?" Haru sent as Kusa sent a response.

"That's an option too, but we'd either have to have a designated driver for after the party, or plan on it being an overnight party again, since I recall the last party we had there had several of us end up sloshed thanks to a certain someone Ren knows spiking our drinks with booze while Lala-chan wasn't looking. And I, for one, don't feel like having Sojiro out for my blood if his daughter ends up plastered and does stuff she wouldn't otherwise do. So I'm not sure about that idea, Haru." Kusa sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"For real? I'd think you'd want her to be a bit tipsy, Kusa. The way I recall it, the last time she was tipsy, you and her got pretty frisky, yeah?" Ryuji sent as three separate 'RYUJI!/RYUJI-SENPAI!' responses came in from Ren, Kusa, and Sumire, the latter sending an additional response afterwards.

"To be honest, Kusa? I think as long as the idea comes from your heart and shows her how much you appreciate her, not just as your girlfriend, but as one you love, she should love whatever we decide on. And for the record, I think we should do a darts party, for funsies! Or maybe even a darts tournament, if those are a thing?" Sumire sent as Ren winced and sent a response.

"First of all? I don't think those exist, Sumi. Also, I dunno if we wanna do darts, since I think the first thing most of us think about when we play darts is Akechi, since that was totally his thing. And I don't think we're trying to make Futaba's birthday a depressing occasion." Ren sent as Kusa sent a response.

"Agreed. Though your suggestion does give me an idea, Ren. Didn't you tell me once that you considered having one of the group's birthday parties be at that buffet that you, me, Morgana, Ann, and Ryuji went to back when we first formed the Phantom Thieves? Could be rather symbolic, too. Having it work out so that both our first and last party as a group happens to be at the same place. Might be a neat way to bring things around full circle, if you will." Kusa sent as Yusuke sent a response.

"Seconded! I didn't get to go to that buffet before, and I think it could be fun." Yusuke sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Hell yeah! I'm down to chow down at a buffet for Futaba's birthday! Let's do it." Ryuji sent as Haru sent a response.

"If it's the buffet I think it is, that could be arranged. I can even foot the bill if needed, since I have a lot of money now after coming into a rather tidy inheritance after my father's passing. I just didn't have a reason to mention it before now." Haru sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Um, is that a good idea, Haru? Need I remind you we'd have the terror that is Sumire's appetite to consider? And given how she eats, I wouldn't be surprised if we had a very huge bill after we were all done eating. Sure, the buffet is all you can eat, but whoever said that hasn't seen how much Sumire can eat. Also, agreed." Makoto sent as Ren sent a response.

"First of all, RUDE! Second of all, Sumire's not THAT big of an eater, regardless of my jokes about it to the contrary. She's a perfectly balanced eater who is amazing the way she is, so please don't make such assumptions about my girlfriend, Makoto. That said, I agree with this plan." Ren sent as Ann sent a response.

"Ooh, the buffet again!? Yes, please! I didn't get to eat as many sweets as I wanted to before, so I absolutely agree with this! And given how much he simps for me, I know Morgana agrees with the plan." Ann sent as Sumire sent a response.

"I agree with Ren. I don't eat THAT much, Makoto-senpai. You're exaggerating. Also, I agree with the plan. A buffet trip with friends sounds like a wonderful final gathering for the group. Well, not counting the one we have planned to send Morgana and the Amamiya brothers off, anyways." Sumire sent as Kusa sent a response.

"So it's unanimous, then. However, I'm gonna need one of you guys to secure the venue and reserve the buffet for just us. I'd do it, but I don't want to chance Futaba eavesdropping on me and spoiling her surprise early. That, and I may or may not have already arranged a little something extra for just her and I for the night before her birthday as a way of keeping her busy while the rest of you get things in gear.

Also, for anyone wanting to pick out presents, as long as it's gaming related and not something she has, odds are pretty good she'll appreciate it. I already have a gift in mind for her, but I'm not saying what here in case she figures out a way to hack this chat. It's bad enough we already said as much as we did. Agreed?" Kusa sent as half a dozen 'Agreed' responses came in shortly after as Ren sent a response.

"I take it you're gonna want me to watch Morgana for the night on both the 18th and 19th, possibly?" Ren sent as Kusa sent a response.

"If you want to, sure. But I was considering having either Ann or Haru watch him, just to change it up. Plus I'm sure at least one of those two has been wanting some time with Morgana anyways." Kusa said as Haru sent a response almost immediately.

"Ooh! I volunteer to watch Mona-chan! I don't think he's gotten to hang out at my house yet, despite staying with me while he was mad at you guys." Haru sent as Ann sent a response.

"Works for me. I don't think my house allows pets if I recall correctly." Ann sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Yo, same here, Ann. Not that Morgana would want to hang out with me that long, anyways." Ryuji sent as Ren put his phone away while Morgana spoke up.

"Hm, I see. So I'm hanging out with Haru for two nights on the 18th and 19th, then? Fair enough. I just hope Kusa knows what he's doing, renting a hot-err, I mean, making such elaborate plans for Futaba's birthday!" Morgana said as Ren smirked and spoke up with a wry grin on his face.

"Hold up. Were you about to say 'renting a hotel room', Morgana!? If so, it's about damned time that those two took the next step in their relationship, in my opinion. They're both more than ready for it." Ren said as Morgana spoke up sheepishly.

"Whaaat? I have absolutely no idea what you're talking about, Ren. I'd never suggest such a thing. And the fact that Kusa stashed half a pack of condoms in the drawer of your work desk for you is totally irrelevant to what happened on Valentine's Day with you and Sumire, Ren." Morgana said as Ren's eyes widened and he walked over to check the drawer in mention. Sure enough, on opening the drawer, Ren found around a half-dozen condoms stashed in the drawer, still in the box. Ren grumbled as he spoke up, cursing Kusa out under his breath using some of the more colorful expletives he'd heard Ryuji use before.

"Gee, how nice of my little brother to conveniently fail to mention this to me BEFORE Valentine's Day. I could've used protection with Sumire if I'd known those were there. Some timing he has. Oh well, better late than never, I guess." Ren said as he sat on the bed and pouted, gently patting Morgana on the head as the two laid together for the night...

(At the hotel the buffet was in, the night of February 18th, with Kusa and Futaba)

"U-Umm, why are we here, Kusa? This place seems kinda ritzy, doesn't it?" Futaba asked as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"I know, Taba. That's the point. This is part of my early birthday present for you. I rented a room for the two of us for the next two nights, so we could have privacy for your birthday if you want it. I know there are things you've been wanting to do with me for a while, but you've not given me the impression you were interested in doing any of them until recently. After all, these are decisions that cannot be made lightly, and cannot be unmade once you go through with making them. However, I love you and want to make you as happy as I possibly can.

That being said, if you truly want to fool around during these next two days, I'm agreeable to doing that with you while we're here. But I want you to be absolutely certain you're ready for that step before we fool around. I don't want you to have even the slightest hint of regret afterwards." Kusa said to Futaba, who blushed prettily as she spoke up.

"W-What? Do you mean what I think you mean? If so, I'm totally ready! But I can understand your reasoning for not wanting to do that right away as well. Mwehehe, I look forward to trying out our hotel room with you later, Kusa." Futaba said as Kusa nodded. After getting himself and Futaba checked in, he got the key to their hotel room, leading her upstairs to the room, since it was a room on the third floor.

Once there, Kusa unlocked the room, before smirking as he scooped up a flushing Futaba, carrying her gently over the threshold bridal style and closing the door behind them, gently setting her on the bed as he checked that the bathroom was working, which it was. Afterwards, Kusa smiled as he backed Futaba up against the bathroom door before leaning in to kiss her passionately, which Futaba eagerly returned.

While eagerly kissing Kusa, Futaba wasted little time in guiding Kusa backwards towards the bed, where the two collapsed together while making out. After a bit, Futaba smirked and eagerly nipped at Kusa's lower lip, making his mouth open enough for her to shove her tongue inside as she deepened the kiss. After a bit, Kusa flushed and spoke up while looking into Futaba's eyes.

**More M-Rated Content Starts Here. If you don't want to read it, skip to the section labeled *END OF M-RATED CONTENT* to continue with the story, otherwise continue reading at your own risk. You have been warned! LEMON STARTS NOW!**

"A-Are you sure you're ready for this, Taba? After all, once you do this, there's no going back. Especially for you, since you're a woman. Once your innocence is taken, it cannot be given back. So be absolutely sure you're ready to give that up before we proceed." Kusa warned Futaba, who smiled and looked into Kusa's eyes while speaking up.

"Silly Kusa. I'm absolutely ready. If there's someone I want to lose my innocence/virginity to, it's you." Futaba said to Kusa, smiling at him as she tugged her shirt over her head after tossing her jacket aside, letting her bra-clad breasts hang out for Kusa to look at, smiling at how much he was blushing as he saw his girlfriend's bra-clad chest. After a bit, Kusa tugged his own shirt over his head, tossing it to the ground and giving Futaba a view of his own impressive physique.

Futaba smiled slyly as she ran her hands along the visible six-pack abs on Kusa, playfully licking at the nearest ab while doing so, enjoying the shuddering groan Kusa gave off for her efforts. After a bit, she smiled at Kusa and spoke up.

"Like that? Well, it gets better! Mwehehe." Futaba said as she un-hooked, removed, and discarded her bra, letting her large B-cup breasts, which were just slightly smaller than Sumire's, fall free for Kusa to admire. Kusa smiled eagerly as he looked into Futaba's eyes and spoke up.

"Futaba, they're beautiful. But then, all of your body probably looks amazing and is perfect." Kusa said smoothly as he leaned down to gently press a kiss to Futaba's breast, enjoying the shuddering moan he got from his girlfriend for his efforts as she spoke up.

"K-Kusa, yes! I love that. Keep going." Futaba said as Kusa nodded, lavishing attention equally on each of Futaba's breasts, smirking as he saw her reach down to undo and remove her shorts, leaving her wearing just a pair of silky light green panties that were easily mistakable for a thong. Kusa smirked as he saw an opportunity, playfully leaning over to tease his girlfriend by swatting her swiftly on the ass, enjoying the mixed squeak and moan of surprise she gave off as she felt his hand on her ass. Futaba looked into Kusa's eyes and spoke up in a mixed husky/lustful tone.

"Oh-ho! I had no idea you were such a bad boy, Kusa. Mwehehe, but I like it. Go wild." Futaba said as she teased Kusa by wiggling her ass in his face suggestively, making Kusa both blush and groan as he felt a tightening in his pants as a result of his girlfriend teasing him with her actions. Futaba giggled at the visible reaction her actions got from Kusa before speaking up huskily.

"Mwehehe. Looks like you're happy to see me, big boy. Why don't we get those off of you so you're more comfortable?" Futaba said as Kusa could only nod while Futaba fumbled around with Kusa's belt a bit before unhooking it and unzipping, unbuttoning, and ultimately sliding off Kusa's pants, which she tossed to the ground, enjoying the sight of the massive tent in Kusa's boxers as she giggled and spoke up.

"Hee hee, wow, someone's got a huge weapon in their boxers, methinks. Or is that just how big you are naturally, Kusa? Hee hee!" Futaba said as Kusa blushed and spoke up.

"Honestly, that's just what you do to me, Taba." Kusa said sheepishly as Futaba smirked, kissing Kusa once more as she spoke up.

"Good answer. Now to see what you're hiding in there." Futaba said slyly as she easily tugged his boxers down and tossed them to the ground after removing them, her jaw dropping at what fell free, as she was surprised by how big Kusa was. Kusa smirked at his girlfriend's stunned reaction and chuckled before he spoke up.

"Impressed, Taba? That's all naturally how masculine I am. And for now, it's yours to do with what you see fit." Kusa said coyly as Futaba smirked, wasting little time in stripping off her panties, exposing her shaven core and smiling at Kusa as she smirked at him while lowering herself onto him, burying him inside of her entrance up to the hilt, letting him stop short of the last barrier between Kusa and her womanhood as she smiled at him and spoke up, her hands briefly resting on Kusa's pecs as she spoke up.

"I think this is good. I wanna ride you, Kusa. So by all means, buck like you've never bucked before. I want you to make a woman outta me!" Futaba said as Kusa smiled and spoke up.

"You're sure this is what you want, Taba?" Kusa asked as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"Yep, I'm sure. Now take me." Futaba said as Kusa nodded and spoke up.

"As you wish. Fair warning, though? I read that the first penetration can be a bit rough on a girl her first time, so if you need time to adjust once I penetrate you, I understand completely." Kusa said as Futaba smiled and spoke up, leaning forward so that her breasts dangled at Kusa's eye level teasingly while she spoke up.

"I'm sure about this. Just do it." Futaba said as Kusa nodded, bucking upwards and penetrating Futaba with one great thrust, making her whimper a bit as she felt her barrier get penetrated. Kusa smiled at Futaba and spoke up.

"Shh, it's okay. We can stop for a bit while you adjust to having me in you, Taba. It's okay. I've got you." Kusa said kindly as Futaba smiled, eagerly kissing him to get her mind off the pain. After a bit, she spoke up.

"All right, I'm good. Proceed, Kusa." Futaba said as Kusa nodded, continuing to buck his hips upwards as he thrusted into her, making Futaba moan appreciatively as she rode Kusa's thrusts like a bucking bronco, turning her head so she could eagerly make out with Kusa to stifle the audible and husky sounding moans she gave off as she rode Kusa eagerly. The two remained like this for a while, Futaba occasionally moaning into the kisses she shared with Kusa as he gradually upped the speed and intensity of his bucking thrusts, eventually making Futaba moan happily as she spoke up.

"Ohh, hell yes! That's the effing ticket, Kusa! Keep going! Make me moan for you as you pound me like a freaking drum! I want you to make me scream your name as I cum on that massive friggin' cock of yours." Futaba said huskily as Kusa kept thrusting into her and spoke up.

"If you say so, Taba. I didn't know you were such a naughty girl. I kinda like it. Kinda like how I like these." Kusa said as he smirked and gently rested his hands on Futaba's breasts, lovingly caressing them as he gently kneaded and massaged each of her nipples, enjoying the shuddering moans his girlfriend was giving off as he lavished his love and attention onto her, thoroughly enjoying himself as he kept bucking upward while thrusting into her, smirking as he eventually heard Futaba start to pant at how intensely Kusa was turning her on. After a bit, Futaba moaned and spoke up again.

"Oh, fuck! I don't know where you learned all this, but don't stop, Kusa! I love how you're making me feel right now." Futaba said huskily as she turned to eagerly shove her tongue into Kusa's mouth, wrapping it around his tongue as the two passionately kissed while they made love. After several more minutes had passed, Futaba suddenly shuddered and moaned as she spoke up.

"Oh! K-Kusa! Keep going! I think I'm getting close, baby!" Futaba said as Kusa nodded and kept going, feeling himself stiffen up a bit as he thrusted, figuring he was probably also close, but wanting to make sure Futaba was satisfied first. After a few more minutes, Futaba suddenly arched backwards and swore as she spoke up.

"Ohh, fuck! YES! KUSA! I'M COMING, KUSA! GET READY TO FEEL MY WARM JUICES ON THAT COCK OF YOURS!" Futaba said as Kusa nodded, grunting a few moments later as he felt Futaba's walls constrict on him as she slicked his shaft with the warm liquid that coated his length a moment later as he felt Futaba's climax on his cock.

Not long after, he shuddered and groaned as he also shot off his own climax, feeling a few loads shoot themselves off inside of Futaba, who eventually slowed to a halt, panting as she eventually pulled herself off of Kusa's cock and pushed him down onto the bad, weakly collapsing on top of him, her head resting on his shoulder as Kusa managed to pull a blanket over them while they caught their breath. After a bit, Futaba smiled at Kusa and spoke up.

**END OF M-RATED CONTENT. STORY RESUMES HERE IF YOU SKIPPED THE PRECEDING LEMON.**

"Wow, how is it you're so insanely good in bed, Kusa? I'd have honestly assumed Ren would be the more experienced of the two of you?" Futaba said as Kusa frowned and spoke up with a mock-offended look on his face.

"RUDE! First of all, unlike Ren, I study. Second of all, who do you think vets all that porn you watch, Taba? Or did you just think it magically vetted itself for you? Also, I guarantee you Ren is NOWHERE near as bold as I am. I'd put money even, right here and now, that Sumire likely has to coax him into the bed when they finally do the freaking deed. Granted, I do think that'll be sooner rather than later, but that's not the point. Also, I made sure to learn as much as I could for you, so when we finally did this, it'd be as enjoyable for you as possible." Kusa said, as Futaba giggled at him and kissed him on the lips as she spoke up.

"Aww, I'm sorry I hurt your feelings, Kusa. I was only teasing. I'd never want to try this with Ren, anyways. For one, I don't want Sumire to kill me for taking her man from her. And for another, I only want you to make me feel the way you just made me feel. And for what it's worth? I don't have anything to compare it to, but I'm pretty sure I could look for years, and I'd never find another guy who fucks nearly as good as you do, Kusa." Futaba said as she smiled and laid her head on Kusa's pecs, smiling as Kusa patted her on the head and spoke up.

"I forgive you, Taba. Granted, you do have a pretty nice ass for how skinny you used to be. But that's good, because I have easier access to your holes if I need them." Kusa said with a sly grin as he smiled at Futaba, who smiled back coyly and spoke up.

"Mwehehe. And only you get to see this ass, so enjoy the view, Kusa." Futaba said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Y'know, I hear this place has a hot tub room somewhere. I wonder how many people we'd piss off if we went there without bathing suits on and soaked in the hot tub." Kusa mused as Futaba giggled and spoke up.

"I dunno, but I like the way you think." Futaba said as she leaned in to whisper into Kusa's ear.

"What do you think, Kusa? Should you and I fool around at the bathhouse one night, sometime? Does that sound like something you'd enjoy? Y'know, me sneaking you into the girls' side of the baths so we can make love there? Less likely for us to get caught there, I think." Futaba said as Kusa smiled and spoke up.

"We can do that if you like. But if we get caught, you get to explain it to Sojiro if he gets pissed at us. After all, he's far less likely to throttle and/or eviscerate you than he is to do that to me." Kusa pointed out as Futaba giggled, turning to lay so she was laying face-down on Kusa, staring into her eyes as she felt her nipples rub against Kusa's chest while she spoke.

"Aww, don't worry, Kusa. I'll protect you from the big, bad Sojiro. He won't lay a finger on you while I'm around. Also, do you like how we're positioned now?" Futaba asked as Kusa smiled and nodded before speaking up.

"Of course I do. I enjoy everything I get to do with you, Futaba. I love you, after all." Kusa said as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"I love you too, Kusa. I'd ask if you want to go again, but I think we should probably pace ourselves so one or both of us don't pull something from being too eager." Futaba said as Kusa nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah, that's a good idea. Maybe in a bit, if we're up to it, we can go shower together, and then go for another round in there." Kusa said as Futaba smiled slyly and spoke up.

"Oho. Shower together, you say? Mwehehe, I like the way you think." Futaba said, lying her head on Kusa's shoulder and yawning as she spoke up.

"Then again, maybe not tonight. Getting too tired. Sleepy now." Futaba said as Kusa smiled, lookig into Futaba's eyes as he spoke up.

"That's fine, Taba. If you need to go to sleep, feel free. I can keep myself busy if need be until I doze off too." Kusa said as Futaba smiled and nodded, cutely snuggling into Kusa's chest as she dozed off with a content smile on her face, Kusa gently running his fingers through his girlfriend's hair as he watched her doze until he eventually dozed off himself for the night...

(Late the next afternoon, in the buffet section of the hotel, with Ren, Haru, Sumire, Morgana, Ann, Yusuke, Ryuji, and Makoto)

"Well, we're all here, except for Kusa and the birthday girl. I assume they'll be along shortly." Ren said as Morgana spoke up with a smirk.

"I dunno about that one, Ren. I get the sense that they might have gotten preoccupied last night and are running late as a result." Morgana said slyly as Ryuji frowned and spoke up.

"Wait, what? What are you talkin-Oh. OHHH! You think they did THAT, Morgana?" Ryuji asked as Ann giggled and spoke up.

"Wouldn't be surprising to me if he did. Kusa seems like the sort that would use that as an early birthday present to his girlfriend. Also, I may or may not have a bet going with Shiho that Kusa ends up jumping Futaba's bones for her birthday as an early gift, hence the hotel room." Ann said as both Sumire and Makoto's jaws dropped, the latter frowning and speaking up.

"Really? You'd bet on something like that, Ann?" Makoto asked as Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"You've got no room to talk, babe. After all, you bet me a lapdance that Kusa gets to base before Ann does, so you're almost as bad." Ryuji said as Makoto flushed crimson in embarrassment as she pouted and spoke up.

"RYUJI! You weren't supposed to tell the others that!" Makoto said in a pouty voice, making Ryuji's eyes widen as he spoke up.

"Eh? I wasn't? Oh, crap! My bad, babe!" Ryuji said as Makoto smirked and spoke up.

"You're lucky you're so damn handsome, Ryuji." Makoto said, gently but firmly pulling her boyfriend into a heated kiss, amidst amused giggles from Haru and Sumire, who watched the rare unguarded side of Makoto show. Ann smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, what's this? I didn't think Makoto was a PDA type of girl? I guess there's a first time for everything?" Ann said as Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"Truth! Like the time you said you caught Ren and the red-headed gymnast he's probably sleeping with sneaking off to rub sunscreen on one another during the trip to Hawaii? I think you mentioned something about a wardrobe malfunction, too?" Ryuji said slyly as both Ann and Sumire flushed at this and spoke up.

"RYUJI!/RYUJI-SENPAI!" Ann and Sumire both rebuked Ryuji as the latter spoke up.

"First of all, there was no wardrobe malfunction. I briefly undid the back of my top so Ren could put sunscreen on my shoulders. I may or may not have teased him about staring when he mentioned having to shake off a mental image he'd gotten of him applying sunscreen along my bare chest, though." Sumire said as Ryuji's jaw dropped, making Ann laugh as she spoke up.

"That explains why it looked like your butt was wiggling a bit while Ren put the sunscreen on you, Sumire. You were hoping it went further than that, weren't you? You naughty girl." Ann said as Sumire spoke up while smiling slyly.

"Maybe. Not that either you or Makoto have room to talk given how revealing the bikinis you both chose were, Ann. I saw you two walking along the beach while I looked for Ren." Sumire said coyly, making Ann and Makoto sputter and pout as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"Behave, girls. Don't go giving Futaba any ideas. It's bad enough she tried to hit on Sumire. I'm glad she's cut back on how often she does that, though. I shudder to think what'd have happened if she'd started throwing herself at Sumire, truth be told. Not because I fear Sumire leaving me for Futaba, but because I'm not sure I'd want to see someone I consider as good as my little sister in a position like that with my girlfriend.

That'd be like if Haru had hooked up with Makoto, or Ann had hooked up with Futaba. Those are pairings I think would be hot, but wouldn't really be too sure about watching happen. Not that I think Haru, Sumire, or Makoto actually swing both ways, mind you." Ren said as Sumire slyly leaned in close to her boyfriend and whispered in Ren's ear in a mixed sultry and seductive tone.

"Who says I don't? Or do I need to remind you that Kasumi liked guys and girls, but mostly girls, when she was alive? Let's just say I may or may not have seen a few things that I might be curious to try out on occasion. But I wouldn't leave you for anyone, Ren. So you can relax." Sumire said reassuringly as Ren smiled, smirking at the trio of dropped jaws from Ann, Makoto, and Haru at Sumire's sly smile. At that point, another voice spoke up as the group found themselves joined by one more.

"Heh, what's this? You guys teasing each other?" Kusa asked as Ren nodded and spoke up after Kusa had a seat at the table next to a pleased Morgana.

"Yep. Basically having the obligatory awkward conversation about which of the girls like which of the other girls, and about your girlfriend's brief crush on my girlfriend." Ren said as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Oh, yeah? Taba had a thing for Sumire for a bit? While I'm relieved it didn't last, I wouldn't have objected to it if it had made Taba happy." Kusa said as Sumire flushed and spoke up.

"Yes, well, if I was going to fool around with a girl, it likely wouldn't be Futaba, out of respect for you, Kusa. If anything? I'd be more apt to be caught checking Ann-senpai and her girlfriend out. I recall they had some pretty nice figures on display the night of the King's Game. Hee hee!" Sumire said, giggling at the trio of shocked looks on the faces of Ren, Kusa, and Ann, as well as the put-out frown on the face of Morgana at once more being reminded that he had no shot with Ann. Kusa then spoke up.

"Ahem! Yes, well, anyways, moving on from the potentially awkward minefield of a topic that is our varied assortment of sex lives. Did you guys bring presents for Taba?" Kusa asked as Ren nodded, pointing to the table next to the group, which was stacked with birthday presents of all sorts for Futaba. Kusa nodded approvingly and spoke up.

"Good. I was hoping you guys were on the ball with that. As for the birthday girl, she's taking a bit of a cold shower and she'll be down. Luckily she thought to bring a change of clothes with her." Kusa said as the others nodded. After the group got into some lively discussion about their experiences over the past year, Kusa's phone went off with a private chat as he checked it and spoke up.

"Okay, places! She's on her way down now! I'll have the staff kill the lights on my signal, and turn them on when Futaba comes down." Kusa said as the others nodded and got into place to surprise Futaba. Not long after, they heard footsteps on the stairs, which was Kusa's cue to signal to the staff, who turned the lights off as Futaba got down the steps, making her blink as she spoke up.

"Hm? When did the power go out? And why only on the lower floor? Odd. What the he-?" Futaba said, being cut off mid-sentence as the lights came back on as she approached the buffet area, and around nine different voices all cried out.

"SURPRISE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FUTABA/TABA/FUTABA-SENPAI!" Ren, Kusa, Morgana, Ann, Ryuji, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, and Sumire cried out, making Futaba smile as she spoke up.

"Wh-What? You did all this for me!? Wow, you guys! Thank you!" Futaba said as Kusa smiled and spoke up, gently sitting his girlfriend on his lap as he spoke up.

"Of course we did, Taba. I'd have to be a pretty shitty boyfriend to forget your special day. After all, a girl only has one sweet sixteen party, you know. So enjoy!" Kusa said as Futaba's eyes widened before she smiled and hugged Kusa gratefully as he smiled and gently kissed her lovingly for a moment, ignoring the smirks on the faces of the others as Futaba smirked and spoke up after coming up for air.

"Well, I suppose I should start with the cake while I still have the lungs for it." Futaba said as the others nodded and the staff brought out a white velvet chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, which as it turns out was a favorite of Futaba's, much to Kusa's amusement. Once it was brought out with sixteen candles on it, the group sang 'Happy Birthday' to Futaba as she blew out her candles. Once the cake was served, and everyone had a slice, all agreeing the cake was superb, Futaba turned to her gifts and started opening them one by one.

From Ren, Futaba got a Featherman mask in the likeness of Feather Pheasant, making her happily tackle-hug her pseudo-big brother, thanking him over and over.

From Makoto, Futaba got a stack of notes that she initially frowned at, before realizing they were first-year study notes for Shujin Academy, making her smile at Makoto while she spoke up.

"Wow! How'd you know I was thinking of applying to Shujin Academy next year?" Futaba asked as Makoto smirked and spoke up.

"Ohh, just a hunch. Certainly not anything that Boss might or might not have happened to let slip to Ren knowing the rest of us were listening." Makoto said coyly as Futaba huffed and spoke up.

"Grr. Darn it, Sojiro!" Futaba said before turning to the rest of her presents.

From Haru, Futaba got a rather racy-looking set of lingerie, making her blush as she thanked Haru, smirking at the wide-eyed look of shock on Kusa's face at the sight of the gift Haru had given Futaba.

From Ann, Futaba got new clothes in her size that made her smile and thank the older girl.

From Ryuji, Futaba got vouchers to a lot of nearby instant noodle restaurants, making her smirk and fist-bump Ryuji appreciatively while thanking him.

From Sumire, Futaba got a very sexy two-piece bathing suit which had both Kusa and Futaba blushing profusely at how skimpy it was.

From Morgana, Futaba got a card with a pawprint on it, and writing on the inside that read as thus: 'Happy birthday, Futaba! Sorry I can't do anything more, but hopefully this will suffice as a birthday gift! -Morgana P.S.: Kusa helped with this and says happy birthday as well.', making Futaba smile as she patted Morgana appreciatively on the head before kissing her boyfriend appreciatively as her way of thanking him for his part in the gesture.

From Kusa, Futaba got a box that had her frowning at Kusa as he spoke up.

"Open it, Taba. I picked it out myself." Kusa said as Futaba opened it, her breath catching in her throat as she saw the beautiful necklace in the box. It was a golden heart locket, with the center of the heart filled with amethyst, which happened to be the birthstone for February, making it Futaba's birthstone. Futaba gasped as she looked at Kusa and spoke up.

"Kusa! This is lovely! You didn't have to do all this!" Futaba said as Kusa smiled and spoke up.

"I know I didn't have to do it, but I wanted to. You deserve to have at least one memorable birthday, after all. Not saying that it's anyone's fault that your last few haven't been the greatest. Just trying to help you make up for a lot of missed birthdays. Also, I hope it serves to show how much you mean to me, Taba." Kusa said as Futaba launched herself at her boyfriend, pulling him into an intense kiss by way of response, amid laughs from the others.

Despite the intense make-out session, Kusa and Futaba wound up eventually pulling up after a bit, ignoring the laughs from Ren, Ryuji, and Sumire at Futaba's spontaneous action. Futaba then turned to the painting-shaped present, which predictably was from Yusuke. Futaba arched an eyebrow inquiringly towards Yusuke, who smiled and spoke up.

"This was a joint effort by myself and Kusa. I hope you like it." Yusuke said as Futaba opened the present, only to gasp at the picture she found inside. It was a painting of her mother and Sojiro, both leaning into one another affectionately, a smiling little girl curled in one of Wakaba's arms that Futaba recognized with a start as a younger version of herself, bringing tears to her eyes as she turned to Yusuke and spoke up.

"How did you do this, Inari? It's beautiful!" Futaba said happily as Yusuke spoke up.

"I had a lot of help from Kusa, who had a picture of Boss and your mom together that he found at the house. Apparently Boss kept a few photos of himself and your mom hidden, and Kusa found one of them by chance at one point. He then sent it to me as a source image, and I was able to use it to fashion the painting you see before you, which is your mother and Boss together in the likeness of the 'Sayuri'. Only in this case, I titled it the 'Isshura' as a combination of yours and Boss' family names. Do you like it?" Yusuke said as Futaba tearfully hugged Yusuke and spoke up.

"I love it! Thank you so much, Inari! You're the best." Futaba said, smiling gratefully at Yusuke, making most everyone else all smile and say 'AWWW!' at the same time. After that, the group helped themselves to the buffet, and after a while, everyone was full. Futaba smiled as she spoke up.

"Welp, as much fun as this has been, I think it's time I take my boyfriend upstairs and properly reward him for putting all of this together for me. Mwehehe." Futaba said as Kusa blushed but nodded, turning to the others as he spoke up.

"Sorry to cut and run, but duty calls! Thank you all for coming!" Kusa said in a mixed flustered/excited tone as he was hustled up the stairs by Futaba, amid approving chuckles from the others, and a smug cheer from Ann, who knew she'd won her bet with Shiho, as well as a grin from Ryuji as he knew Makoto had won her bet with him, but not minding that he had to give her a lapdance, as the party broke up. After Ren and Sumire carried the forgotten gifts up to Futaba and Kusa's room, leaving them on the tray by the door, the group went home for the evening, leaving the birthday girl to have the evening to thoroughly and vigorously thank her boyfriend for the wonderful party...

(Time skip- evening of March 2nd, in the attic of Leblanc, with Ren and Morgana)

As Ren and Morgana sat together in the attic, Ren's phone went off with a group chat from Ryuji, Ann, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Futaba, Sumire, and Kusa, making Ren frown once more at the lack of Akechi in the chat as Ryuji sent the first response.

"Hey, everyone free after school tomorrow?" Ryuji sent as Yusuke sent a response.

"As far as I know, I should be available tomorrow. Why?" Yusuke sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Well, to tell the truth? There's something I want to talk about. Thinking we should all meet up at Leblanc." Ryuji sent as Kusa sent a response.

"Wow, sounds like it's serious, man. I don't usually see you this considerate in your words when you send responses, Ryuji." Kusa sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Yeah, you could say that, Kusa. Also, can you check if Boss is free too, Ren?" Ryuji sent as Ren sent a response.

"Sure, I can do that. But why do you need Boss there?" Ren sent. Ann sent a response.

"That works for me." Ann sent as Haru sent a response.

"Me too. I can head over once school's finished." Haru sent as Futaba sent a response.

"All good here, too." Futaba sent as Kusa sent a response.

"I should be free then too, so I'll go nip over and pick Futaba up from her house and walk her to Leblanc after school tomorrow." Kusa sent as Makoto sent a response.

"Likewise. Then let's all head there when we can." Makoto sent as Ryuji sent a response.

"Yeah. Ignoring the lack of response from Sumire, I'll take that as a unanimous response. See you guys there, then." Ryuji sent as Ren put his phone away and Morgana spoke up, having read the chat over Ren's shoulder.

"Hm? Ryuji wants to talk? Did something happen with him?" Morgana asked as Ren shrugged and got comfortable for the evening...

(The following afternoon, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ann, Sojiro, Ren, Ryuji, Yusuke, Makoto, Haru, Kusa, Morgana, and Futaba)

"Are you sure you want me hanging around? I can step out for a bit, if you like." Sojiro said as Ryuji shook his head and spoke up.

"No, I'd prefer you stick around, actually. I want you to hear this too, Boss. After all, everyone I owe somethin' to has gotta hear this. Ugh, see, it's like this. Truthfully, I'm thinkin' about movin' away." Ryuji said, as literally everyone else's eyes widened in shock at hearing this unexpected news before Haru spoke up in shock.

"Moving?" Haru asked as Ryuji nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah. It's just, a helluva lot's happened this past year, y'know? It's gotten me thinkin' about the future and what I want out of it. Also, I want to be able to have ambitions worthy of the woman in my life. After all, I can't have her being the only one with plans for the future. Might have her thinking I'm not worthy of her or somethin'." Ryuji said before he sighed and kept speaking.

"Also, if I'm telling the truth? It's got me thinking about not only that, but how much I enjoyed track in that other reality, and it's got me thinking I still wanna get back on the track team. That's why I wanna move closer to a physical rehab facility, get my knee fixed up while goin' to school, all that good stuff. Plus, I feel like I'd be better able to be there for Makoto if I don't have a bum knee holding me back. And at all the earliest? All this is gonna kick off startin' next month." Ryuji said as Yusuke spoke up in shock, his eyes wide.

"I see. While I'm happy for you Ryuji, that is quite sudden." Yusuke said as Ann sighed and seemed to hesitate while speaking up.

"Mmm." Ann said as Yusuke turned to her and spoke up.

"Ann?" Yusuke said as Ann eventually sighed and spoke up.

"I might as well be honest. Actually? I've got some news, too. And you should all hear it. I'm in the middle of looking into studying abroad, but just short-term. I've been wondering what would be the smartest move for my career, so I figure it couldn't hurt to expand my options a bit. The fact that I might run into Shiho again if I go abroad doesn't hurt either." Ann said as Yusuke spoke up in shock and horror.

"You're moving too?" Yusuke asked Ann as Makoto and Haru exchanged a look before the former spoke up.

"Umm, to be honest? Both Haru and I are looking for places to live on our own, starting next month. In fact, our moves will probably occur around the same time as Ryuji's." Makoto said as Haru nodded and spoke up.

"Mako-chan's right. I plan to keep learning about the business while also attending college. That's why Mako-chan and I were talking about how we won't be able to get together like we used to." Makoto said as Sojiro frowned and spoke up, though it was hard to tell if he was looking more at Kusa or Futaba as he spoke up.

"Are you gonna tell them too?" Sojiro asked as Futaba spoke up.

"Um, yeah. So, the thing is? I passed the entrance exam! I'm gonna be a high-schooler, starting in April. First high school, then college. Once I conquer both of these, then I can finally research cognitive psience for real." Futaba said as Yusuke spoke up in shock.

"Even you, Futaba? No, forgive me. I apologize for my outburst. I should be wishing you all the best of luck." Yusuke said as Futaba winced and spoke up.

"Nah, you do have a point, Inari. We are all going our separate ways once our leader, Morgana, and Kusa all return home." Futaba said as Ren spoke up.

"Well, if nothing else? We'll always be connected through our group chat." Ren said as Sojiro winced before looking at the group and speaking up with a frown.

"Um, about that? There's actually something else you should all know. Kusa, do you wanna tell them, or should I?" Sojiro said as Kusa blinked at the eight different inquiring looks aimed at him as he sighed and spoke up.

"I'll tell them, Boss. Well, to tell you guys the truth, that something else Sojiro alluded to just now is about what was said before about Ren and I going home with Morgana on the 20th. As it turns out, I'm actually not taking the train back with Ren and Morgana. Apparently, Sojiro had a chat with our mother, and the two decided that I was thriving so much here, that it'd actually be doing me a disservice to make me uproot my life a third time just to go back home, especially since I no longer have to be a court-appointed overseer for Ren.

Thus, it was decided that the best thing for all involved was for me to remain here in Leblanc, full time. Basically, I'd be both a Shujin student and a live-in bouncer of sorts for Leblanc when needed. So, yeah. Guess I'm sticking around." Kusa said, wincing at the shocked looks on everyone's faces except for Sojiro's. But especially so, he blinked at the identical looks of horror on the faces of Ren and Morgana, as the latter spoke up.

"For real? You're not comin' back with us, Kusa!?" Morgana asked in shock, as Kusa sighed and patted Morgana on the head affectionately as he spoke up.

"Afraid not, little brother. But I feel like I can trust Ren to look after you on his own. Besides, it's not like you two can't come back this way and visit from time to time." Kusa said gently as Morgana sighed but nodded as Ren spoke up.

"Well, I think at this time, there's only one thing to say. No matter where our paths lead us going forward, I wish for nothing but the very best of luck to all of us on our paths." Ren said wisely. Haru nodded with a smile as she spoke up while Futaba tackle-hugged Kusa and cuddled herself up close to him.

"Mmhm. Plus, as Kusa-kun pointed out, this isn't a permanent farewell." Haru said as Yusuke smiled and spoke up.

"Hm. It seems that even if some of us aren't actually relocating to do so, you're all taking great strides forward. I, however, will not be going anywhere until I've completed my current painting, except maybe for spending time with Hifumi from time to time. And no matter how many years it takes, I will express this feeling that's grown within me since we first banded together." Yusuke said resolutely as Ryuji grinned and spoke up.

"Truth, Yusuke! And y'know, that's still some kinda stride though, ain't it?" Ryuji said as Kusa spoke up.

"Odd that Sumire couldn't join us for this little meeting, but I think I can likely guess her plans going forward. Those plans being to focus on her gymnastic dreams and become the best girlfriend she can be for Ren, even while they're apart. Truth be told though, I'm kinda glad she wasn't here, since I wasn't looking forward to her reaction on hearing that I get to stay and Ren doesn't.

Truthfully, Boss tried to push for us both to stay, but Ren apparently has some sort of court hearing he has to go back to Okinawa for in order to have his probation formally dismissed and his slate wiped clean. But supposedly, our mom agreed that Ren can come back later on to live here once he's graduated, if not for summer vacation at some point. So I'm sure we'll see each other again someday." Kusa said wisely. Morgana nodded and spoke up.

"Well said, Kusa. And I also have something to say. No matter what we may go through, or how many times we may stumble, we'll follow the path we believe in no matter what. After all, that's what the Phantom Thieves are all about!" Morgana said as Futaba smirked at Morgana and spoke up.

"Hey! Stop trying to be such a cool cat!" Futaba said as Morgana huffed and spoke up, even as Kusa instinctively scooped the cat into his lap while Morgana spoke up.

"WHAT!? I am not a cat, you-! Oh, um, yeah. I guess I am. My bad." Morgana said as Kusa smiled and spoke up while patting Morgana on the head comfortingly.

"It's all right, Morgana. Cat or not, you're still our friend, and even our brother. So no need to be ashamed of what you are." Kusa said kindly as Morgana nodded while Ryuji spoke up.

"Truth! There's still no way I'm acceptin' Doc's reality, but if it weren't for goin' through that, I dunno if I woulda felt this way now. It's like, followin' through with what I wanna do in life or something. I guess I learned how to really believe in my future!" Ryuji said as Ann spoke up with a closed-eye smile.

"True. Well, in that case, wouldn't you say Sumire learned the same thing? I mean, she IS at a training camp right now." Ann said as Yusuke spoke up with a closed-eye smile.

"Indeed. While her viewpoint may differ from the Phantom Thieves' beliefs, there's still much we can learn from her." Yusuke said as Futaba blinked and spoke up.

"Oh! That reminds me! Sumire left something with me! She told me she forgot to give us this the other day." Futaba said as she pulled out a slip of paper that the others frowned at as Makoto spoke up.

"Hm? Is that seriously a newspaper clipping?" Makoto asked as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"Mm-hm. Guess it was lyin' on the ground nearby when we got out of Maruki's Palace." Futaba said as Ann's eyes widened on reading the article.

"Huh? Guys, this article!" Ann said as Yusuke frowned and spoke up.

"Indeed. It's the case about Maruki's loved one, the one we saw in the first video. The girl whose family was murdered in front of her and Maruki." Yusuke said as Futaba spoke up.

"True. I'd be willing to bet, if I were a betting woman anyways, that this is Doc's Treasure." Futaba said as Morgana blinked and spoke up.

"I see. So, her case was the origin of Maruki's distortion, it seems." Morgana said as Futaba turned to Ren and spoke up.

"Hey, would you hold on to this, Ren?" Futaba asked as Ren nodded and pocketed the clipping as Ryuji spoke up.

"Welp, we've all gotta keep livin' with our eyes focused on our dreams, instead of dwelling in the past. Otherwise, I have no doubt that Maruki's gonna give us all kinds of shit." Ryuji said as Haru nodded and spoke up.

"Ryuji-kun? You're absolutely right." Haru said as Sojiro chuckled and spoke up for the first time in a while.

"Heh. Well, I'm very impressed. You've all become quite mature. So let me throw you a little celebration in honor of the next chapters of your lives. Order whatever you'd like, on me." Sojiro said as Makoto smiled at Sojiro and spoke up.

"Thank you, Boss." Makoto said as Futaba cheered and spoke up.

"Aw yeah! It's all you can eat and drink, people!" Futaba said as Sojiro winced and spoke up.

"I-Huh?" Sojiro said as Yusuke gave Sojiro a closed eye smile and spoke up.

"Boss, you shouldn't have! Thank you for the generosity! You truly are a man among men!" Yusuke said gratefully, making Sojiro sputter as he spoke up, smirking at the identical expression of horror on the faces of Kusa, Ryuji, and Morgana as he spoke.

"Uh, that wasn't what I said at all, Yusuke. Ugh, could you at least go easy on me?" Sojiro said as the others all cheered and spoke up.

"Nah!" Ryuji, Morgana, Futaba, and Yusuke all said as Kusa spoke up.

"Let the record show that this is all Futaba's fault for saying what she did. That said, cheer up, Boss. At least not all of us are trying to take advantage of you." Kusa said kindly as the party got lively for a while until the others eventually went home...

(That evening, in the attic of Leblanc, with Ren and Morgana)

As Ren sat on his bed, still somewhat in shock from Kusa's unexpected revelation about not going home with him and Morgana on the 20th, his phone went off with a private chat from Sumire that he opened up.

"Hello, Ren. I'm sorry for messaging you so late. I just wanted to send you this picture from our first shrine visit of the year." Sumire sent as she sent a photo of herself and Ren at the shrine, both smiling as they looked at the camera, a visible smirk on Ren's face as he stood with Sumire in the photo. Ren then sent a response.

"Wow, we did go there at one point, didn't we? Truth be told, with everything that happened afterward, I nearly forgot about that." Ren sent honestly. Sumire smiled and sent a response.

"True. Well, it's already March, so this likely feels like it was ages ago for you, so I can't blame you. As for me, I've got a lot of mixed feelings about this picture, I guess. That's supposed to be me there, I know. But it just doesn't feel like that. No matter how much I try to see myself with you there, that girl with me just isn't entirely me, if that makes sense. And seeing this really makes me realize how buried I was in Kasumi's identity." Sumire sent as Ren sent a response.

"I truly hate that man for what he did to you, but at the same time I feel the inexplicable need to thank him for it, since it helped you find some of the closure you needed, even if it wasn't the way I would've chosen to give you that closure. That said, you're not the same girl you were then anymore. You've changed now, and it's for the better." Ren sent. Sumire smiled and sent a response.

"Right! I'm not going to run away anymore, Ren! Actually, there's one more photo I want you to see." Sumire sent as she sent a photo of herself in a leotard, doing a twirl as she spun around with a ribbon in her hands, looking both graceful and at the same time beautiful to Ren. Sumire sent another response before Ren could do so.

"It's kind of embarrassing, but this is a photo my coach took of me. The real me, I guess. Training is tough, and it's really hard sometimes, but even so? I feel like I'm finally moving forward with my life." Sumire sent as Ren smiled and sent a response.

"That you are, Sumi. That you are. I'm proud of you. Never doubt that no matter where I am, or where I go, I'll always support you with all my might." Ren sent. Sumire smiled at this and sent a response.

"Thank you, Ren. When you tell me these things, I feel like I could take on the whole world. I'll make our dream come true, Ren! And I'll do it as myself, not as Kasumi. I'll climb all the way to the top of the gymnastics world. So if it's not too much trouble, could you keep watching over me until then?" Sumire sent as Ren sent a response.

"Of course I will. You never need to ask me for my support. I'll always give it to you, whenever you need it. I promise you that, Sumire." Ren sent. Sumire sent a response.

"Oh gosh, Ren. That's so beautiful. I'm tearing up for some reason while reading your response. Heh, look at me. Falling apart at the slightest thing like a crybaby. I guess that means I really am back to being Sumire, huh Ren? Oh shoot, my break's over. I have to get back to training now. Talk to you later, Ren! Love you!" Sumire sent as Ren sent one last response.

"All right, talk to you later, beautiful. Good luck and I love you too!" Ren sent as he put his phone away and Morgana sighed and spoke up.

"Hm. Sumire's standing on her own two feet now. And even Kusa's found his own path. We'll fight for our goals, too!" Morgana said as Ren nodded and relaxed for the evening...

(Time skip- the evening of March 13th, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren, Sojiro, Morgana, and Kusa)

As Ren and Kusa worked together to tag-team the dishes in the lower level of Leblanc, Sojiro walked over and spoke up.

"Nice to see you two working together so well. Oh yeah, nearly forgot. You guys ready for tomorrow?" Sojiro asked as Ren spoke up.

"Tomorrow?" Ren asked in confusion as Kusa groaned and spoke up.

"Did you seriously forget what tomorrow is, Ren!? It's White Day! Y'know, the day where guys return the favor to the girls who gave them chocolate on Valentine's Day, or in our case, it's our chance to spoil our girlfriends a bit and show them how much we appreciate and cherish them. And regardless of if your dumb ass managed to forget that or not, I did not forget about White Day.

I already have something lined up for tomorrow that will hopefully blow Taba's socks off, so to speak. I won't say too much out of respect for Boss, since Taba is basically his daughter, and no father probably wants or needs to hear the details of their daughter's intimate life. Suffice it to say, I took what Boss taught us about the ladies to heart." Kusa said wisely. Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"Kusa's right, Ren. Tomorrow's White Day. After all, you got some chocolates on Valentine's Day from your girlfriend, didn't you? And White Day's when you return the favor. The men do the gifting to the women. Um, what's your plan, Ren? You've at least got some kinda present ready, right?" Sojiro asked as Ren swore and spoke up.

"Crap, that's tomorrow? I had plans to grab a gift for Sumire in the coming days, but I didn't realize it was already so close to White Day. What do I do now?" Ren asked Sojiro, getting identical groans from Sojiro and Kusa, the former of which sighed and spoke up.

"Really, Ren? Get it together, kid. At least Kusa takes my advice to heart, even if I'm not sure how I feel about giving him pointers on basically courting my daughter. As for you, Ren? Sometimes I don't know if you're fearless or just plain careless." Sojiro said as Kusa spoke up with a chuckle.

"With Ren? Definitely both. But moreso fearless than careless. The only time Ren's ever been guilty of being careless would be when he and I were younger, and he took a devil-may-care attitude towards a girl he was going to take to a school dance. Luckily for him, I reminded him of his plans so he could pick her up, but the fact he almost forgot got the girl in question a bit miffed at him. Needless to say, I've always been the more successful of us two with the ladies." Kusa said wisely. Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"Good point, Kusa. Well, fine. Listen up, Ren. Pay attention, and I'll give you the recipe for the ultimate date. Kusa, you don't need to take notes on this, since I know you likely already have things under control on your end." Sojiro said as Kusa nodded approvingly while Ren spoke up.

"Ignore Kusa, Boss. He's being an instigator again. He only had to bail me out once, and that was the day that I humiliated myself in front of a girl I liked. That said, if you want to give me some advice, that'd be great." Ren said gratefully as Kusa spoke up with a scoff.

"Riiight. If you're thinking of the day I think you are, I was just as much bailing myself out as I was bailing you out, since you made us both look foolish in front of the ladies. But I'll let Sojiro try to teach you his ways, if you think you can pay attention." Kusa said dryly as Morgana spoke up.

"Whoa, the chief has an ultimate date plan? I better listen in on this too, just in case." Morgana said as Kusa spoke up while gently patting the not-cat turned cat on the head.

"You're a cat, little bro. Why would you need an ultimate date plan? I don't think Sojiro plays wingman for felines." Kusa pointed out as Sojiro spoke up.

"I always forget that you can understand him, Kusa. But I agree with what you said. I don't play wingman for cats. I'll leave that to Kusa, if he feels up to that. Anyways, first off, when it comes to the ultimate date? You're gonna need a gift, Ren. This won't work without one. Can't go wrong with flowers. Just make sure you buy them before the date. That said, you gotta present them near the end. Surprise her. So you can't let her see you buying them on the date, got it?" Sojiro said as Morgana spoke up.

"Aha, I see. Gotta give them flowers, huh? I gotta take notes of all this." Morgana said as Kusa patted Morgana on the head and spoke up.

"Again, I don't think you need to worry about any of this, Morgana. Unless we run across a nice lady cat for you, I doubt you'll find love anytime soon, considering I don't think there're any girls that will date a cat, unfortunately for you. But if you ever manage to get a human form, then we can talk about you needing to take notes on the ladies. Hell, if that day ever comes, I'll give you lessons on that myself." Kusa said kindly to Morgana as Sojiro ignored the two and kept speaking.

"Next, think about where you're taking her, Ren. You're gonna want somewhere with the right atmosphere, but it's gotta be peaceful as well. Oh, I know. How about that new aquarium exhibit in Shinagawa? Just saw a commercial for it. Might be a good spot, right?" Sojiro said as Morgana spoke up again.

"The aquarium's a good place for a date, is it? I see." Morgana said as Kusa spoke up with a chuckle, being the only one listening to the cat.

"That's just the first place Boss thought of. Usually, in addition to having the right atmosphere and being peaceful, you also want to try and pick a spot that you know your girl likes. Like with Ren, he can probably get away with the aquarium since I know that Sumire is a closet penguin fanatic.

Whereas with me, I had to really think about where I was going to take Futaba. However, I won't say where that is, since we all know she has this place bugged to hell and back with listening devices, and I want this to be a surprise for her. Ren doesn't have to worry about his girlfriend listening in to all this, though." Kusa pointed out sagely as Sojiro kept speaking as if Kusa and Morgana hadn't interrupted.

"Now, once the date part's over, you gotta take her out to dinner. Somewhere nice, too. But it's kind of last-minute to make reservations. All the fancy places get booked pretty fast around White Day." Sojiro said as Morgana spoke up as if taking notes.

"Okay, right, too late to make any reservations for-Wait. WHAT!?" Morgana said as Kusa spoke up.

"Again, you don't need to worry about that, little brother. You're a cat. Unless you have some secret female cat you're seeing on the sly we don't know about, you're off the hook as far as White Day goes." Kusa said to Morgana who huffed as Ren spoke up.

"I see. So, hypothetically, let's say that I didn't get as far as making a reservation for White Day because I was immersed in picking out Sumire's gift. Is there any way around everywhere being booked?" Ren asked as Sojiro sighed and spoke up.

"Seriously!? Ugh, dammit. Fine. I don't usually do this, but I'll make an exception for you, Ren. I know a place. Can't guarantee anything. I bet they're full up, too. But you might get an edge if you mention my name." Sojiro said as Morgana and Ren blinked in shock, the former speaking up.

"Eh!? Wow, amazing! Chief has connections!" Morgana said as Kusa smirked and patted Morgana on the head fondly before he spoke up.

"Of course he does, Morgana. Boss here is one of the greatest men I know, and probably the closest thing I know to a father figure in my life, outside of my actual father, who's currently in prison repaying his debts to society. So don't you forget how great he is, Morgana." Kusa said bluntly, arms crossed as Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"Heh, nice to know that you appreciate me, Kusa. Anyways, back to Ren's date plan. So, once you're at dinner, you get to talking, enjoying yourselves, stuff like that. At one point, your instincts will tell you that the moment is perfect for surprising your girl. And that's when you give it to her." Sojiro asked as Ren spoke up.

"The flowers, right? I would hope that's what you mean, and not something else, like the bill." Ren said as Kusa laughed and spoke up.

"Good one, Ren! Why would Boss ever give a lady the bill? That's not how he rolls, and you know it. Also, only a scumbag leaves the lady with the bill on White Day." Kusa said bluntly as Sojiro spoke up.

"Well said, Kusa. And very good, Ren. I see you were paying attention. It's the perfect time to surprise her. And if you stick to that, that oughta do it. Just follow the plan, and you're safe." Sojiro said as Morgana spoke up admiringly.

"Wow! This plan is foolproof! Just leave it to the chief!" Morgana said as Kusa spoke up.

"Of course it's foolproof, Morgana. Boss came up with it. And he's a god with the ladies, or so he says. Speaking of which, I actually have one last touch to take care of before tomorrow. If you'll all excuse me." Kusa said, nodding politely to Ren, Sojiro, and Morgana as he walked out of Leblanc at that point. Once he left, Sojiro turned to Ren and spoke up.

"At least he takes the initiative on things for the most part. Well, I taught you my secrets, Ren. The rest is on you. Do your prep, and make those reservations." Sojiro said as Ren spoke up.

"Yep, got it. Thanks, Boss. You're a lifesaver." Ren said as Sojiro smiled and spoke up.

"Well, good luck. Oh, and this time, make sure you remember protection if you and your girl get too physical after she thanks you for her gift. I can't believe you didn't do that the last time. You're honestly lucky that you didn't get her pregnant from being careless, Ren. And on that note, I'm going home. Now, it's up to you." Sojiro said as he left, at which point Morgana spoke up.

"Chief's absolutely right. You should start prepping right away. Don't waste the chief's advice, all right?" Morgana said as he and Ren headed up to the attic, where Morgana kept speaking.

"So, Ren. Let's see here. The reservation comes first. You remember that restaurant that Chief told you about?" Morgana asked as Ren nodded and took out his phone to call the restaurant to secure a reservation. Once he dialed the number, a sophisticated sounding man spoke up.

"Good evening. Thank you for calling, sir. Were you looking to make a reservation?" The sophisticated man asked as Ren spoke up.

"Yes. If at all possible, I'd like to book a table for two on the 14th." Ren said as the sophisticated man spoke up regretfully.

"I'm sorry, sir, but I'm afraid we're fully booked for tomorrow." The sophisticated man said as Morgana spoke up with a wince.

"That sucks. White Day is crazy, huh bro? But don't worry, Ren! All you have to do is mention the chief!" Morgana said as Ren spoke up.

"I understand, sir. I was advised to try your establishment by a Sojiro Sakura, who is a close friend of mine, as well as the one who suggested calling you for a reservation." Ren said as the sophisticated man seemed to be shocked at the mention of Sojiro's name, given what he said next.

"Y-You're a friend of Mister Sakura's!? My apologies, sir! If you could just hold for one moment, please." The sophisticated man said before briefly putting Ren on hold, after which he spoke up once more.

"I'm back. Thank you for your patience. You wanted a dinner course for two on the 14th? We will have a table ready for you." The sophisticated man said as an impressed Morgana spoke up in surprise.

"Dang! The chief has some serious clout!" Morgana said as the sophisticated man spoke up as if he hadn't been interrupted by a talking cat.

"Could I ask your name and contact information?" The sophisticated man said as Ren gave him his name and contact info, after which the sophisticated man thanked Ren for choosing his restaurant and hung up. Afterwards, Morgana looked at Ren and spoke up.

"Okay, your dinner plans are locked in. Now you just gotta get the flowers, and then it's off to the aquarium and dinner! It's gonna be busy tomorrow, so we'd better get rest while we can." Morgana said as Ren nodded and the two got to sleep for the night...

(The next day, after school, in class with Ren and Morgana)

"Well, Ren? Today's the day. Let's go get those flowers! I think there was a florist in that underground passage in Shibuya." Morgana said as he and Ren went to the Hanasaki flower shop, where Hanasaki saw Ren and spoke up.

"Oh, Amamiya-kun the elder? What brings you here today?" Hanasaki asked as Ren spoke up.

"I'm here to pick up a surprise present for a special someone for White Day." Ren said honestly. Hanasaki nodded and spoke up.

"Oh? Yes, I see. A lot of guys have been through here for that reason today. Well, okay! Leave it to me!" Hanasaki said as she went to prepare a bouquet for Ren, eventually walking out and handing it to him as she spoke up.

"That should do it. I tried to keep it as simple as possible. Okay, that comes out to a total of-" Hanasaki said as Morgana spoke up before Ren could say a word.

"Hold on! Let me cover this one, Ren. You've been taking care of me all by yourself lately, so I figure the least I can do is repay the favor where I can. Also, I need to express appreciation for you, too, big brother." Morgana said as Ren accepted a 'Scarlet Rose' item from Hanasaki, who smiled at Ren as she spoke up.

"Well, good luck, Amamiya-kun the elder! I'm rooting for you!" Hanasaki said as Morgana spoke up after Ren nodded.

"Okay, now you're all ready for the date, Ren. You know who you plan on inviting on this date, right? And don't worry, I'm a gentleman who knows his manners. I won't be tagging along. All right, good luck out there!" Morgana said as Ren spoke up.

"Heh, thanks, little bro. You're one considerate kitty, you know. Hopefully you can keep yourself busy while I'm gone." Ren said as Morgana nodded and padded off on his own, after which Ren thought about it, and smiled, knowing precisely who he was going to invite. Ren smiled, wasting little time in dialing Sumire's number to invite his girlfriend on a date. Not long after the phone started ringing, Sumire picked up and spoke up.

"Hello? Yes, Yoshizawa speaking." Sumire said as Ren smirked and spoke up.

"I forgot you were so stiff in your greetings sometimes, beautiful. But never mind that. If you don't have plans today, I was wondering if you'd like to accompany me to Shinagawa for a bit to spend some time together." Ren said to Sumire, who blinked sheepishly before her eyes widened as she registered what Ren was asking and spoke up.

"Right now? Um, no I don't have any plans to speak of. So of course, that's fine! Fortunately, it so happens that I don't have practice today, so I'll head over right away. See you there!" Sumire said as she hung up the phone on her end, leaving a smiling Ren to get ready to meet his girlfriend in Shinagawa...

(A short time later, in the Shinagawa aquarium, with Ren and Sumire)

Ren met up with Sumire at the Shinagawa aquarium, smiling as he saw the outfit she'd chosen for the occasion, which was a white long-sleeve sweater, an orange-red skirt, fancy black dress boots, and a red ribbon that she used to tie her hair into its usual ponytail. As the two looked at the fish, Sumire smiled and spoke up.

"There are so many different kinds of fish! I'd never have realized just looking at them from a distance. They're all so, for lack of a better word, beautiful." Sumire said before getting a closed-eye smile on her face as she kept speaking before Ren could consider paying his girlfriend a compliment.

"You know, come to think of it, I remember we had a family trip to an aquarium when I was younger. Kasumi was so excited to see the fish. But apparently, I was so scared that I cried the whole time, according to Mom and Dad." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That's understandable, Sumire. We all have things we fear, after all. But that was then, and this is now. How is it now?" Ren asked kindly. Sumire smiled and spoke up.

"Thanks for your concern, Ren. Oh, I'm having fun now. Hm. Um, Senpai, I'm curious about something. If I'm wrong on this, you can just tell me, but I have to wonder. Is this a date for White Day?" Sumire asked as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Of course. I'm not going to forget to spoil the most amazing lady I know on White Day, after all. I'm a better boyfriend than that, after all." Ren said while nodding to confirm that Sumire's guess was correct. Sumire smiled happily as she spoke up.

"I knew it, Ren! Hee hee, I knew you wouldn't forget to surprise me on our first White Day as a couple! And to be honest? I'm so glad I got to spend White Day with you, Ren-senpai. Since we're on a nice date like this though, I figure we might as well have fun!" Sumire said as Ren noted with amusement that Sumire seemed quite pleased with his choice of date, mentally thanking Sojiro for the assist. Sumire then blinked and kept speaking.

"Oh wait, that's right. I think this is the end of the exhibit. Thank you for taking me out today, Ren. I'll be even more motivated for tomorrow's practice." Sumire said happily, giving Ren a beautiful closed-eye smile that made Ren grin as he spoke up.

"You know, this doesn't have to end just because the exhibit's over, beautiful. What say we keep this going for a little while longer? Sound good to you?" Ren asked Sumire, who gasped at the question and spoke up in surprise.

"Uh, what? Well, if you're sure, I suppose I'll take you up on that." Sumire said as Ren smiled and led Sumire to the restaurant that Sojiro had helped him book for him and Sumire. Once the two were seated in the restaurant, Sumire gave Ren a very brilliant closed-eye smile and spoke up.

"Wow. This restaurant is beautiful, all right. I'm impressed, Ren-senpai." Sumire said as Ren smiled slyly and spoke up.

"Yeah? Well, I hope you enjoy it. And it's not as beautiful as you are, Sumi." Ren said smoothly to Sumire, who blushed at the praise but nodded as she spoke up with the same closed-eye smile as before.

"Of course!" Sumire said loudly before blushing in embarrassment as she kept speaking.

"Oh, right, inside voices while inside a building. Eheh, sorry about that, Ren." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That's quite all right, Sumire. I find your excitement rather adorable, truth be told. But then again I find everything you do adorable. And I find you quite irresistible, charming, and amazing. Not to mention you're very beautiful, spunky, lively, and a lot of fun to be around." Ren said kindly as Sumire blushed and spoke up.

"T-Thank you, Ren. Gosh, that's sweet of you to say. But you know, love is so strange. I feel so happy when I'm with my boyfriend, but even tiny failures get me so depressed. But as long as I've got you, though, I feel like I can get through anything." Sumire said honestly as Ren smiled, looking right into his girlfriend's eyes as he spoke up, gently placing his hand on hers, smirking at the adorable blush his actions got from Sumire while he spoke.

"Truth be told? I feel the same way, beautiful. But you shouldn't let your failures get you so depressed. If anything, you can take them and use them as learning experiences so you know what not to do in future, thus making you more likely to succeed on future attempts. Not that I'm going to let you get depressed, though. I promise you Sumire, as long as I'm around, I won't let you sink into depression like you did before.

I swear that I'll always be there to help get you through your dreams, and to be there if you need someone to vent to, or just a shoulder to cry into/ear to vent into. I love you, and I want to be there for you however I can. I know I said that before, but I felt like saying it again. Just know I'm not going to let you suffer through things alone, Sumire." Ren said kindly to Sumire, whose breath caught in her throat at Ren's sincere vow to her, giving him a grateful smile as she spoke up, her cheeks pinking slightly while she spoke up.

"Ren-senpai, that's so sweet of you. Thank you. How is it you always know just what to say to not only make me feel better, but make my heart race while I look at you? Also, I'm glad we're on the same level. Er, so to speak." Sumire said gratefully to Ren, who smiled at Sumire as he lightly pressed a kiss to the back of her hand in a gentlemanly manner and spoke up.

"I'm just that good, beautiful. Also, I would do most anything to make you smile." Ren said kindly as Sumire blushed at his words before shaking herself and speaking up.

"Oh, uh, sorry! Excuse me while I go and freshen up a bit!" Sumire said as she walked off to the bathroom, leaving Ren alone to ponder when he should give his gift to Sumire. After a bit, Sumire walked back over, smiling at Ren as she spoke up.

"Oh, sorry about that, Ren." Sumire said as she had a seat next to Ren again as a voice spoke up over the intercom.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this special day. We wish you all an unforgettable evening, with one last finishing touch from us on the staff at this restaurant." Ren and Sumire heard over the intercom, as the latter spoke up.

"Hm? It looks like something's happening, Ren." Sumire said as with an audible 'click', the curtains near Ren and Sumire lifted to reveal a glorious night-time view from the revealed window, making Sumire gasp as she spoke up.

"Oh, my! It's gorgeous, Ren!" Sumire said as Ren smirked, taking this as a cue before pulling out the bouquet of flowers that he'd picked up earlier, discreetly tying a small rectangular box to end of the bouquet before speaking up to get Sumire's attention.

"I'm glad you like the view. I'd also like to take this chance to give you this. I have a gift for you, Sumire. It's just a little something I put together for you for White Day. Please take it." Ren said as he offered the bouquet to Sumire, who gasped at the gesture and spoke up, her eyes widening as she saw the box dangling on the end of the bouquet that Ren handed her.

"What's this, Ren? Thank you so much, Ren-senpai!" Sumire said as Ren spoke up.

"Don't forget to open up the extra gift there at the end of the bouquet." Ren said, pointing to the box attached to the flowers, making Sumire gasp as she reached for it, her hands shaking a bit as she opened it, gasping silently as she opened it and saw the shining rose-gold bracelet inside, smiling at Ren as she spoke up.

"Ren, I love it! It's beautiful! Put it on me?" Sumire asked as Ren nodded, carefully helping to put the bracelet on Sumire's left wrist as she blushed subtly while feeling Ren's hands brush against her own while putting the bracelet on her, her heart beating a bit faster at that moment while she accepted the gifts and spoke up with wide eyes.

"I have to say, Ren. I never saw this coming for a moment." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That was the idea, beautiful. I figured you deserved to be spoiled a bit today, given that it's White Day and all. Also, I figured this small gesture was the least I could do to show you how much you mean to me, Sumire. Never doubt that I love you, now and always." Ren said kindly as Sumire gave Ren a closed-eye smile and spoke up, even as her cheeks pinked cutely.

"I had no idea you were that devoted to me, Ren. But even so, I'm so, so happy right now." Sumire said as Ren spoke up.

"Heh, surprise. I'm glad you like it, Sumire." Ren said kindly while letting himself look into Sumire's eyes, making his girlfriend giggle nervously as she spoke up.

"Of course I like it, Ren. It was a gift from you. But you should really be careful how often you do this. Hee hee, you're going to spoil me if you do this too much, you know." Sumire said as Ren slyly smiled at his girlfriend and spoke up.

"And what if it was my goal to spoil you, beautiful? Maybe I enjoy making you feel loved?" Ren said smoothly as Sumire blushed and spoke up.

"Oh, stop it, Ren. Honestly, I don't even know if I deserve to be this happy. But still, I guess you put a lot of effort into this date. But I shouldn't have expected anything less, Ren-senpai. After all, you take care of everybody. And you put their happiness before anything else. But you know? I don't want this to be one-sided, Ren. One day, I want to take care of you Ren, just like you do for me. I know it probably sounds silly, but that's how I feel. Although, I guess that might not be for a while." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That's okay, beautiful. I can be patient and wait as long as it takes. And just so you know, I look forward to you taking care of me like I take care of you. I do want you to feel like we're equal in this relationship, after all. No, not just equals. I want you to feel like we're equal partners, Sumire." Ren said kindly to Sumire, who happily smiled and spoke up.

"Aww, that's so sweet, Ren. Thank you! It'll definitely happen eventually, so please be patient!" Sumire said as Ren nodded with a smile before Sumire flushed in embarrassment and spoke up.

"Okay, maybe I'm getting a little too worked up about it, I think. Or is that just me being excited to be with you, Ren? Um, you know? We still have some time left tonight, so if you want, maybe we can go back to my house and spend some time together in my room, just the two of us? What do you think, Ren? Can I stay with you, just a little longer?" Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"I was hoping you'd ask that, beautiful. Truth be told, I was hoping this would go well enough we could continue this at either your house or Leblanc. I know it's White Day, but I feel like you deserve to be shown a bit of physical affection as well, if you catch my drift." Ren said with a sly wink, making Sumire blush prettily as she nodded and spoke up.

"Ohh, you mean that? I won't lie to you, Ren. I wouldn't mind continuing this in my room. Truth be told, I've been kinda excited to hopefully break in my bed the same way we broke in your bed in the attic of Leblanc. Hee hee." Sumire said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Sounds amazing to me, beautiful. Let me get the check, and we can go back to your house and do just that." Ren said as Sumire giggled and nodded as Ren paid the bill before he and Sumire headed to Sumire's house, where they exchanged polite greetings with Shinichi and Minako before heading back to Sumire's bedroom.

Once they were in Sumire's room, Ren and Sumire sat together on Sumire's bed, taking off their shoes and socks before Ren gently pushed Sumire down onto the bed and looked lovingly into her eyes as he started lightly kissing the base of Sumire's collarbone, making her moan throatily and speak up.

"O-Oh, you're in a frisky mood, aren't you Ren? N-Not that I mind it, of course. Hee hee." Sumire said as she smiled up at Ren before leaning up to give her boyfriend a passionate kiss, smiling as she watched Ren straddle her waist assertively, causing her to blush as Ren spoke up.

**More M-Rated content starts here. If you don't like this sort of thing, skip down to the section marked *END OF M-RATED CONTENT* to continue reading the story without missing much plot details, otherwise you keep reading on at your own risk. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! LEMON STARTS NOW!**

"Looks to me like you're as excited for this as I am, Sumire. Do you often fantasize about this?" Ren asked coyly as Sumire blushed prettily and shyly nodded, making Ren grin at her sexily and speak up.

"Is that so? I take it you want me to take control, then?" Ren said assertively to Sumire, who blushed and nodded as she spoke up.

"Yes, please. I want you to dominate me, Ren! I need you to ravish me! You've got me hot for you, dammit." Sumire said in a whiny tone, making Ren smirk as he spoke up.

"No problem, beautiful. I'm here for you." Ren said, suggestively trailing kisses down the base of Sumire's neck and slowly moving downwards, lightly lifting up Sumire's sweater to start trailing kisses along his girlfriend's toned yet slender stomach, making her look up at Ren and speak up in a pleading tone.

"R-Ren! Please stop teasing me and just strip me down already." Sumire said, blushing prettily at her own daring as Ren smiled lovingly at his girlfriend before carefully tugging Sumire's sweater over her head, carefully tossing it to the ground below after checking that her door was locked for privacy's sake, which it was. After that, Ren smiled, trailing kisses up Sumire's chest, eventually reaching behind Sumire's back to boldly unclasp, remove and discard his girlfriend's silky black and red bra.

This one bold decision by Ren had the result of letting Sumire's pert and eager breasts fall free for Ren to see, making him smile as he removed his own shirt, scarf and sweater so he was bare-chested as well, eventually lavishing attention onto each of Sumire's breasts equally, enjoying the shuddering moans of appreciation Sumire was giving off for his efforts.

After a bit, Ren smiled as he reached down to tug Sumire's skirt down, eventually pulling it past her feet and off of her, tossing it to the ground with the rest of their discarded clothes as he then unhooked his belt and removed his own pants, tossing them to the ground as he let himself lovingly yet suggestively caress each of Sumire's breasts to show her more affection, making her whimper pitifully as she watched Ren lavish affection on her.

Sumire then hooked her legs upwards to wrap them around Ren's waist, using her feet to deftly slide his boxers down before removing them with one foot and tossing them to the ground, letting Ren's cock fall free for Sumire to look at, making her lick her lips excitedly as she took in the sight of her boyfriend's impressive manhood. Seeing the desire in his girlfriend's eyes, Ren reached over and slid off Sumire's now-damp panties, tossing them to the ground as he reached over to fish out the condom he'd stashed in his pants pocket on a whim, sliding it over his cock.

Afterwards, Ren wasted little time in tossing his pants back down to the ground as he took in the sight of Sumire's clear desire for him, smiling as he leaned in to passionately kiss Sumire while sliding himself slowly into her entrance, burying himself in her up to the hilt as he started thrusting into her, making her smile prettily at Ren while moaning lowly from the feeling of his thrusts as he made love to her.

Sumire then gave Ren a sly smirk before playfully pulling his face down into her cleavage, moaning a moment later as she felt Ren start kissing along her cleavage sexily, making her moan as she started grinding herself against Ren erotically as she let herself make love to her boyfriend and surrendered entirely to her hormones as she and Ren got swept up in their desire to ravage each other. After a while of Ren thrusting into her, Sumire moaned happily and spoke up.

"Oh shit, that's good! Ren, keep going, please! I think you've got me close!" Sumire said as Ren nodded, continuing to thrust into Sumire before smirking as he realized that somewhere along the way Sumire had moved so she was sitting in Ren's lap as he thrust into her, allowing him to freely move a hand around to cup Sumire's pert ass, making him give her a sexy smirk before playfully swatting his hand hard on her ass, leaving a visible handprint where he'd spanked her, making Sumire moan happily at the feeling of her boyfriend taking charge as she rode him eagerly. Not long after, Sumire felt herself shuddering as her walls clenched on Ren's shaft before she spoke up.

"YES! OH, GOD! REN, I THINK I'M FUCKING COMING!" Sumire said, blushing bright red a second later as she realized both what she'd just said, and how loudly she'd said it. Ren smiled as he kept going, hearing Sumire practically scream Ren's name as her body shuddered while she released on Ren's condom-covered shaft, making Ren grunt as he felt himself reach his own climax, his load shooting off into the condom, making it slick on his cock as he carefully pulled himself out of Sumire, sliding the condom off and tossing it in the nearby trash can before smiling as he laid on his smiling girlfriend, the two both bright red as they both panted, practically glowing with happiness from their passionate lovemaking.

**END OF M-RATED CONTENT FOR NOW. STORY RESUMES HERE IF YOU SKIPPED THE PRECEDING LEMON**

Ren smiled down at Sumire as he spoke up, looking into his girlfriend's eyes happily while he spoke.

"Well? How was that for your second time? The same as the first? Better? Worse?" Ren asked as Sumire spoke up.

"Much better, Ren. And not just on your end. I got better too, I felt like. I actually let myself enjoy it this time, instead of just going along for the ride. I love how you're always so careful to show every part of me love and affection when we make love, Ren. I appreciate that about you. Also, I see you remembered protection this time. Hee hee! At least one of us did!

I might have accidentally forgotten to take the pill this morning since I was so busy spending time with Mom and Dad earlier. But since you used protection to an extent, it should be fine. Plus, as you said before, if we do get in trouble for this, we can handle it together. I love you so much, Ren. I count myself blessed every time I get to lay here next to you after one of our intense lovemaking sessions. Please, Ren. Never leave me. I want to know you'll be by my side forever." Sumire said as Ren spoke up.

"I promise you, Sumire. I'll always be here for you, even if it's from a distance for a while. Never doubt that I love you with all my heart, and I always will. So believe that I have no intentions of leaving your side anytime soon." Ren said sincerely as he leaned down to press a kiss to Sumire's lips lovingly, making her smile as she returned the kiss before pulling Ren down next to her and wrapping her arm around him happily, giving him a contented smile as she spoke up.

"I'm holding you to that, Ren-senpai. And I, in turn, promise to always be honest with you and let you pick me up if I should ever need it. But I want you to also feel that you can in turn lean on me from time to time, if you need it. I love you so much, Ren. I'm happy you're my boyfriend.

Also, in case I can't be there to say it on the 20th? Good luck in your hometown, Ren. I'll be thinking of you every day and praying you remain healthy and happy. Now let me cuddle you close to me while we still can, please." Sumire said as Ren nodded his agreement to Sumire before she laid her head on Ren's shoulder, Ren smiling at his girlfriend as he pulled a blanket over their bare bodies while they laid together and eventually dozed off for the night...

(Meanwhile, earlier that evening, in a certain sushi restaurant/buffet with Kusa and Futaba)

"W-Well? Do you like it? I reserved this place just for the two of us." Kusa said as Futaba smiled, happy that Kusa remembered what she'd said about this place being special to her as she spoke up.

"I love it, Kusa. But I have to wonder. Is this a White Day date, perchance?" Futaba asked as Kusa nodded and spoke up.

"Good guess, Taba. Yes, I wanted to surprise you for our first White Day as boyfriend and girlfriend. After all, I love you so much, and wanted you to know how much you mean to me." Kusa said as Futaba blushed and nodded as she spoke up. After the two exchanged small-talk for a while, the curtains suddenly sprang open, revealing a very beautiful night sky in the distance, making Futaba's jaw drop as she spoke up.

"W-Wow. It's so gorgeous!" Futaba said as Kusa smiled, pulling out a bouquet of flowers and a small box while he spoke up.

"It's not as gorgeous as you are, Taba. But before I can get any further into shameless flattery, these are for you. Happy White Day, Taba." Kusa said, presenting the bouquet of flowers to Futaba, then gently placing the box in her open hand, making her look down and gasp as she spoke up.

"K-Kusa?! Is this what I think it is?!" Futaba asked as Kusa spoke up.

"Open it to find out, Taba." Kusa said as Futaba nodded, a hand going over her mouth to stifle the gasp she gave off at the sight of the gold earrings with inlaid amethysts sitting inside the box. Futaba smiled at Kusa and spoke up.

"Kusa, these are beautiful! How'd you know I needed these?" Futaba asked as Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"I'm your boyfriend, Taba. It's basically my job to know what you need, is it not? I certainly didn't get help from anyone else picking them out." Kusa said as Futaba giggled and spoke up.

"Mwehehe! I knew it. Ann helped you pick these out, didn't she?" Futaba asked as Kusa's eyes widened and he spoke up.

"H-How-?" Kusa asked as Futaba spoke up.

"Easy. They're the same type of earrings I helped her pick out for her girlfriend recently. Granted, those earrings were red, but otherwise, they were identical to these. But I appreciate you going to such trouble for me. Thank you." Futaba said before leaning up to kiss Kusa gratefully. After a moment, the two broke apart as the waiter arrived to take their order. After they'd eaten and paid for the meal, Futaba spoke up.

"Mwehehe. This is amazing so far, Kusa. And just think, the best is yet to come." Futaba said as Kusa nodded and spoke up.

"That's true. There's more to come. But before the next part, we'll have to stop by your room so we can drop off the flowers and prepare for the rest of your surprise." Kusa said as Futaba's eyes widened as she spoke up.

"Wha!? There's more?" Futaba asked in shock as Kusa spoke up.

"Of course there's more. Did you think I was really just going to give you earrings and a bouquet of flowers for our first White Day together? Of course not." Kusa said. An excited Futaba followed Kusa back home, dragging him down the hall to her bedroom after making sure the bill was paid. Once there, Kusa smirked and spoke up.

"Now, before you get the next part of your surprise, I need you to close your eyes and keep them closed. No peeking!" Kusa said as Futaba nodded, obediently closing her eyes, going so far as to tease Kusa by pulling her shirt over her face to cover her eyes, making Kusa smile as he went to retrieve Futaba's other present from the closet that he'd stashed it in, closing the door quietly before setting it gently into Futaba's lap as he spoke up.

"Okay, now you can open your eyes, Taba." Kusa said as Futaba opened her eyes, seeing the gift bag in her lap, blinking as she spoke up.

"Wha-?" Futaba asked as Kusa spoke up with a smile while lightly kissing his girlfriend on the cheek.

"Open it up and find out what's inside, Taba." Kusa said as Futaba did as she was told, gasping as she peered inside and pulled out the two figurines inside, which were ones she'd been looking for for her collection. Futaba smiled as she hugged Kusa gratefully and spoke up after setting the figurines back in the bag and setting them on the ground gently.

"Kusa, I love them! How'd you find them, though? Everywhere I went was sold out?" Futaba said as Kusa smiled and spoke up.

"One of those places happened to have that pair left, so I had the manager put them up for me so I could buy them and have them gift wrapped for you. Surprise!" Kusa said as Futaba smiled, tackle-hugging Kusa to the bed and kissing him passionately for a moment before speaking up.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you! I love them!" Futaba said as Kusa nodded and spoke up.

"I see. Say, Futaba? Didn't you once say you wanted to visit a bathhouse with me?" Kusa asked as Futaba spoke up.

"Yeah, I did. Why?" Futaba asked as Kusa spoke up.

"Well, I may have managed to reserve the bathhouse for us tonight, if you want to go for a soak with me. Who knows, maybe we can even fool around while we're in there? Mwehehe!" Kusa said as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"I'm down for that. Let's go." Futaba said as she eagerly wasted little time in changing into a very skimpy set of lingerie right in front of a red-faced Kusa, who blushed as he changed into a pair of boxers, smiling as he led Futaba over to the bathhouse after paying the 1000 yen admittance fee, smiling as Futaba hustled him into the girls' side of the bathhouse, wasting little time in kissing him passionately as Kusa smiled and spoke up.

**MORE M-RATED CONTENT STARTS HERE. SKIP TO THE SECTION MARKED **END OF M-RATED CONTENT** TO CONTINUE READING IF YOU DON'T LIKE THIS SORT OF THING. OTHERWISE, READ ON AT YOUR OWN RISK! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED! LEMON STARTS NOW!**

"Well, well, someone's eager to have fun with me. I like it." Kusa said as Futaba smirked and spoke up.

"Shut up and let me have my way with you, Kusa. It's White Day, so you have to spoil me. And I say you can do that by letting me dominate you right now." Futaba said slyly, purposely dropping her towel and tossing it to the ground behind her, after which she eagerly removed her bra and panties before sneakily removing Kusa's towel and boxers, smiling at the erection that she saw as a result. Futaba then playfully ground her ass against Kusa's cock, making him moan slightly as he spoke up.

"Oof, you're a naughty girl, aren't you? But I like it. Please, Master Futaba. Ravish me and make me your obedient slave." Kusa said submissively as Futaba giggled and spoke up.

"Mwehehe, good sexy eye candy boyfriend." Futaba said, smiling as she buried Kusa in her up to the hilt, giggling as she started grinding herself against him, making Kusa involuntarily moan as he started bucking upwards and thrusting into Futaba, making her moan sexily as she started gyrating in time with Kusa's thrusts, effectively riding him as the two made love in the hot tub. Kusa smiled happily as he sneakily watched Futaba's perky breasts bounce up and down as the two ground themselves against each other, both moaning huskily as they enjoyed their intense moments of passion.

Futaba smirked as she noticed Kusa looking at her breasts and teased him by taking a breast in her hand and lifting it to her mouth so she could playfully lick her own nipple suggestively, making Kusa shudder in excitement as he started upping the speed and intensity of his thrusts, making Futaba moan loudly as she spoke up.

"Oh shit, that's great! Keep going, Kusa! I want you to make me scream your name as I cum on you." Futaba said naughtily as the two kept going, Kusa smirking as he playfully teased Futaba by rubbing his balls against her ass suggestively, making Futaba moan a bit as she squeezed her thighs on Kusa's shaft, making him give off a throaty moan as he started thrusting harder and faster, making Futaba whimper eagerly as the two kept making love. After a while, Futaba arched backwards and moaned loudly as she spoke up.

"Ohhh, fuck! Yes, I think I'm ready! OH GOD, YES! KUSA, I'M COMING!" Futaba screamed as she felt herself release on Kusa, who grunted as he felt his own release shoot off inside of Futaba, the two smiling as they looked at each other and made out after Kusa pulled himself out of Futaba, smirking slyly as he decided to be naughty and tease Futaba a bit more by taking his cock in hand and playfully spanking Futaba's ass with it, making her moan as she spoke up.

"Oooh, trying to tease my ass now, are we? Interesting. But I'm not sure I'm ready for that just yet. However, I think I can oblige you in a different way." Futaba said as she giggled, playfully rubbing her breasts on Kusa's cock to get his cum on them, before making Kusa watched as she licked both breasts clean, making Kusa smile as he pulled her into a tender kiss, smiling at her and speaking up after ending the kiss.

**END OF M-RATED CONTENT. STORY RESUMES HERE IF YOU SKIPPED OVER THE PRECEDING LEMON**

"Wow, that was insane, Taba. Maybe we should do that more often. That was hot." Kusa said as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"I quite agree, Kusa. And I saw you ogling my tits earlier. You're lucky you're my boyfriend, and I don't care if you ogle me. Hell, I don't care if you walk up to me and strip me naked if it's the two of us alone. Mwehehe." Futaba said, giggling at the bright-red blush on Kusa's face as he spoke up in shock.

"I-I see. I didn't think you were that open about baring it all? But I can't say I blame you, with a sexy body like yours. I don't care if you're technically petite and small. You're still plenty gorgeous to me, Futaba." Kusa said as he led Futaba out of the bath so they could get dressed and return to Futaba's room, where they got naked again and laid together on Futaba's bed, Futaba pulling the blanket over her and Kusa's naked bodies as she spoke up.

"Screw it, Kusa. I want us to sleep together, skin-to-skin. If it means we wake up and end up doing it again, so be it." Futaba said decisively as Kusa spoke up.

"As you wish. Happy White Day, by the way. I hope you had fun?" Kusa said as Futaba nodded and spoke up.

"I had so much fun, Kusa. And I'm truly happy you're not going back with Ren and Morgana next week. I was honestly worried we'd have to make it work between us long-distance." Futaba said honestly as Kusa looked into Futaba's eyes and spoke up.

"Taba? Look at me. I love you, and I promise you, I will never leave your side. I am here for you, now and always. And as far as I'm concerned, you're the only woman I want to be with. So don't worry about me ever leaving you. I'm with you for the long haul, Taba." Kusa said reassuringly to Futaba, gently hugging her comfortingly, making Futaba smile shyly at Kusa as she spoke up, her face currently bright red and her heart racing slightly at Kusa's sincere pledge to her.

"R-Really? Do you mean it? I'm so happy, Kusa." Futaba said as Kusa nodded his agreement and put an arm around Futaba's waist, smiling as she laid her head on his shoulder, looking happily into Kusa's eyes until they both dozed off contentedly in each other's arms for the night...

(Time skip- The afternoon of March 19th, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren, Morgana, Sojiro, and Futaba)

"Hey. Hard to believe you're finally taking off tomorrow with Morgana, Ren." Sojiro said to Ren as he came downstairs with Morgana in tow, Futaba smiling as she spoke up.

"Hi, big bro. Sojiro said you don't have to help out here today. Also, Kusa told me to tell you he'd be over later on to speak to you. I think he just wants to say his good-byes to you in private for who knows why. I'll make sure to turn the listening devices off up there while you two talk so you can have some brotherly bonding time tonight." Futaba said to Ren, who nodded gratefully as Sojiro spoke up.

"Futaba's right, Ren. Go and see your friends before you leave." Sojiro said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Okay, sounds good to me, Boss. I should probably take advantage of the chance to say my farewells to everyone I've met during my stay here." Ren said as Sojiro smiled and nodded.

"Mm. Okay, off you go then." Sojiro said as Futaba smirked and spoke up teasingly.

"Try not to cry, big brother! Mwehehe!" Futaba said teasingly as Ren spoke up.

"That's rich, coming from the girl who spent most of the time Kusa was gone hiding in her room sobbing over his picture." Ren said teasingly as Futaba huffed and spoke up, glaring at Ren's bag, where a certain not-cat turned cat was hiding at the moment, while she spoke.

"What? How do you-? UGH! DANG IT, KITTY! I THOUGHT WE WERE COOL!" Futaba said with a pout as Ren spoke up.

"Morgana didn't tell me that. I figured it out. Also, you might have left the picture out when you invited me over to get your Tier 3 Persona." Ren said as Futaba blinked and spoke up.

"Oh, I see. Well, listen up, Ren, I have good news! Kana-chan passed her high school entrance exam! She sent me a message this morning! I told her I was getting into high school too, and she says we can make our student debuts together! So you know that promise in the book? The one about going to school? That means, like, that I did it, right?" Futaba said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Of course it does. I'd say I'll consider a reward, but I think the fact I'm leaving Kusa with you is really a reward in and of itself if you think about it." Ren said playfully as Futaba smiled and spoke up.

"Yessss! I have caught myself a Kusa! Mission complete! Well, at least that's basically the mission started, anyway. I still hafta actually graduate. Honestly, though, to tell the truth? Not counting Kusa and Sumire, who are going to be there for at least my first two years and will basically be my senpai, the idea of not having Sojiro or everyone else around is the scariest part.

But at the same time, I know I can't stay in my room forever. And that's way more important. I feel like I've come a long way from how I used to be. I've been getting more curious each day. I want to see and learn so much stuff now. So, I want you to have this. It's proof I'm moving on!" Futaba said as she handed Ren a 'Promise List' key item. Futaba then kept speaking.

"I don't need it anymore. And that's because I only changed this much thanks to the notebook. And you, of course. If you ever feel lonely big brother, just look at this notebook and remember that I've got your back, no matter how far apart we are. Okay?" Futaba said as Ren smiled and nodded, briefly hugging Futaba as he walked over to Sojiro and spoke up.

"Hey there, Boss. Figured I'd go ahead and get my goodbye to you out of the way now while I can, since I likely won't be able to come back here until dark, and you might have gone home by then. Plus, I get the sense Kusa won't want an audience when he and I have the talk he wants to have." Ren said as Sojiro spoke up.

"You're saying goodbye to me, Ren? Cut it out. You're gonna see me tomorrow, you know. Just remember to pack once you get back, you hear? But make sure you don't accidentally pack any of Kusa's stuff, since he'll be taking over the attic once you and Morgana go home. After all, I don't want you forgetting anything important here, even if Kusa likely would take care of it and mail it back to you." Sojiro said to Ren, who nodded before blinking as he was reminded that he still had his probation diary. Ren idly mused on if he should give it to Sojiro as a present. Nodding to himself, Ren took the diary out and handed it to Sojiro, speaking up as he did so.

"Here you go, Boss. It's my diary from probation. After all, as my guardian while I was here, it only seems right you get to have this, if only as a way to remember my time here. Sure, it might be awkward since it's mostly filled with my memories, but I also chronicled our unlikely transformation into a family inside that diary. And I want you to have it." Ren said as Sojiro smiled and spoke up while accepting the diary.

"Oh yeah, I forgot about this, to tell you the truth. The diary of the Phantom Thieves' leader, huh? Probably gonna be worth a lot someday. But for real? Thanks, though. I'll keep it safe. Well, we've all been through a lot, Ren. But it seems like everything's changed for the better, more or less. Eh, try to behave yourself when you get back home, will ya? Ah, not like you ever listen to me anyway, Ren." Sojiro said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"That's not true at all, Boss. I always listened to what you asked as best I could. I might not have said it much, if ever, but I respected you like you were a second father to me. Hell, I even grew to love Futaba like she was the little sister I never had, so I think I listened to at least some of what you said. Besides, we both know Kusa would've kicked my ass if I'd ever actually tried to defy you. He might not admit it, but I think he loves you like a father figure, even if he doesn't say so. Then again, maybe he just respects you a lot, considering he's dating your daughter and all." Ren said as Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"True. Well, here you go, kid. A little something to remember me by." Sojiro said, handing Ren the 'Recipe Notes' key item as he kept speaking.

"I want you to have them, Ren. Don't worry, I've got 'em memorized already so I can write down another copy if need be. With that stuff, you can make the same curry I make-err, well, no, that'd just be a waste. Put your own spin on the flavor. Develop it. Make it yours.

I believe you can become as great a barista and curry cook as I am, if not greater. Don't think I'll make it easy for you to surpass me, Ren. After all, what man wants to see his son surpass him? But seriously, c'mon. You should get going. You've still got things to do, right?" Sojiro said as Ren nodded and kept moving. After heading outside to look around, he saw Sae leaning against a wall across from Leblanc, walking over to speak to her.

"Well, well. We keep running into each other, don't we, Niijima-san?" Ren asked Sae, who nodded and spoke up with a smile.

"That we do, Amamiya-kun the elder. I must say, you look like you're doing well. I decided to stop by after work. I used to come by this area on occasion. I was always a fan of Leblanc's coffee. Ah, that's right. It's tomorrow, right? The day you go home. Sakura-san told me about how you have to leave your brother behind when you go. For what it's worth, I'm sorry that's happening.

But I think you know deep down that you two would've had to part ways eventually once you both moved out on your own. So in a way, this is basically a chance for your brother to spread his metaphoric wings and take flight on his own path. So try not to be sad when you say good-bye to him. Just remember that you two will surely see one another again." Sae said as Ren just nodded to Sae's question and spoke up.

"I see you did your research, Niijima-san. And if I'm being honest, I won't deny that I'll miss him. But I know it's what's best for him. After all, he can't keep being asked to uproot his life forever, can he?" Ren said as Sae laughed and spoke up.

"Of course I did! We're talking about the mastermind behind the world-renowned Phantom Thieves. Give me some credit. And on the record? You've been cleared of all the crimes you were accused of. Unfortunately, the stigmas that came with them are a little harder to simply wipe away. You might find that even now, there will be times where it can be hard to bear. And sometimes, it'll feel like the whole world's against you. So, just in case, I want you to take this." Sae said as she handed Ren a 'Business Card' key item before she kept speaking.

"Also, don't forget, whenever you need help? I'll be on your side. Remember that. Meanwhile, I'll be doing my part to bring some real justice to our legal system. Can't rely on the Phantom Thieves forever." Sae said as Ren nodded and kept moving. After thinking it over, Ren decided to pop in to check in with Takemi while he was in the area, heading into the clinic where he approached the counter and spoke up, getting Takemi's attention.

"Hi there, Doctor Takemi. Been a bit, hasn't it?" Ren said as Takemi spoke up after looking up and seeing Ren.

"Oh, hey. You're going home tomorrow, right? Then let me give you an update. So, about Miwa-chan? Her symptons started fading pretty soon after administering the new medicine." Takemi said as Ren spoke up.

"I'm glad to hear that, Doctor. Hopefully, that means you can see her smile now." Ren said kindly. Takemi gave Ren a closed-eye smile as she spoke up.

"Yeah, you're right. I can't wait. It's all thanks to you, oh guinea pig of mine. Thank you for supporting me through it all. The same goes for the situation with Oyamada, too. You did everything you could to help me out with it. Honestly, I don't know where all that devotion comes from. Maybe I should take a cue from you. Here, Amamiya-kun the elder, I want you to have this." Takemi said as she handed Ren a 'Dog Tag' key item. Takemi then spoke up.

"Don't lose this. After all, you saved Miwa-chan. So it's only fair that you get to meet her someday. Let's see. Hm, how's this? Once Miwa-chan's all better, maybe the both of us could take a trip to visit you. Heh, so just in case, keep your health in check. I want you there to welcome us with a smile, okay?" Takemi said as Ren nodded and kept going. After heading to Shibuya, Ren was surprised to find Yoshida waiting for him as he arrived in Station Square. Ren walked over and spoke up.

"Hi there, Yoshida-san. It's been a long time, hasn't it?" Ren said as Yoshida kindly nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed it has, my friend. But more to the point, you'll be heading home tomorrow, I hear. It'll be a new start for you, not having your brother with you. That said, you've got my blessing, whatever that's worth. I recall the days when we had our deal, and when you helped me out with my speeches here." Yoshida said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"True. I have lots of fond memories of those days with you, Yoshida-san. And for whatever it's worth? You'll always have my support, my friend." Ren said kindly. Yoshida gave Ren a closed-eye smile as he spoke up.

"Thank you, Amamiya-kun the elder. That means a lot, actually. We'll be treading separate paths for now, but as long as we share a common purpose, I'm sure I'll see you again. If I've earned the support of an upright young man like you, well, then that must surely be my greatest achievement. It's ironic, yes? You expect farewells to be so sad, yet here we are, beaming at one another as we fondly recall our times together.

But remember this. From now on, your life is your own to live. No more probation, no more overseers, no more younger brothers to worry about. Now, as both thanks for your help and apology for the depressing subject I brought up, I suppose I'd better send you off with a parting gift." Yoshida said as he gave Ren a 'Fountain Pen' key item. Yoshida smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"It's nice, isn't it? It's an incredibly expensive fountain pen I bought back when I had strayed from the right path. Embarrassingly enough, I hardly used it. I hope you'll put it to better use than I did. Whatever new chapters you write with that pen, Amamiya-kun the elder, I'll be watching for them." Yoshida said as Ren kept moving.

After reaching Central Street, Ren looked around, figuring out that Iwai was in his shop, Haru was by the Big Bang Burger, Ryuji was likely at the arcade, and Yusuke and Ann were likely both in the Underground Walkway/Underground Mall respectively. Ren blinked at the presence of another card near Iwai's shop, before realizing it was roughly where the door he used to enter the Velvet Room in Shibuya was, and guessing it was Lavenza. He walked over to the card, and sure enough, Lavenza was standing outside of the Velvet Room. Ren smiled at her and spoke up.

"Hello there, Lady Lavenza. It's been a while." Ren said as Lavenza nodded and spoke up

"Indeed it has. So, you have come to say farewell. I have some words of reflection for you at this time of parting. This twisted, broken world sought to crush you. Yet you salvaged it, and with your ideals stitched it whole. You were a true Trickster of this modern age. A beloved champion of a burdened public. And a man of such great heights that few others have reached. Even if you're leaving most of your friends behind, including your brother, I believe you still have a great path ahead of you. And I have to question where this path will lead you. And well, where will the Chaos Drake's path take him next after he parts ways with you, I wonder?" Lavenza asked as Ren spoke up.

"I don't know either. But the fact that you gave him a key when you and Igor gave him his Chaos Drake powers suggests to me he could end up a guest of the Velvet Room if he wanted to be. But in all seriousness, I know that you still have duties to attend to. But even so, won't you take care of yourself?" Ren asked coyly. Lavenza smiled as she spoke up.

"I suspect no one does. Indeed, few could even imagine what you will do next. But that seems only right, doesn't it? It's what makes you a Trickster. However, I have more than mere words to give you today, though. Allow me to grant you a parting gift, not as the one who leads you, but simply as Lavenza. This is my blessing to you, to carry with you on your journey." Lavenza said as she handed Ren a 'Cell Key' item. Lavenza frowned at Ren as she spoke up.

"I'm sorry, Trickster. You were confined to your cell for so long. Now, at last, it seems only right that you bear its key. In the past, guests of the Velvet Room have received their keys upon their very first visits. However, I was unable to pass it on to you at that point. This is the least I can do for you now, Trickster. With this key in hand, you will be able to break free of whatever trials may imprison you in the future.

Though of course, you have already chosen the path of true freedom. By inspiring others to take up arms and fight for their own beliefs as you so often did this past year, you may change the world itself. And in fact, you have already done so in a sense. And yes, I will take care of myself, Trickster. That said, never forget that you walk the path of a true Trickster. May it lead you to fortune beyond imagining." Lavenza said as Ren kept moving, deciding to head into Untouchable to see Iwai, since he was next to it. Once inside, Ren ran into Kaoru, who told Ren that he'd been accepted into Shujin Academy as a student, making Ren wish Kaoru good luck. Afterwards, Ren approached the counter and spoke up.

"Yo, Iwai-san. Been a little bit since I was in here last, hasn't it? My bad, had a lot going on." Ren said as Iwai looked up, smiled on seeing Ren, and spoke up with a smirk.

"Yeah, that it has. So, I hear you're headin' home tomorrow. Perfect. I got a story for ya. He might have already told you himself, but Kaoru got accepted to high school. He'll be a Shujin Academy student in the spring." Iwai said as Ren spoke up.

"If he's going to Shujin, he'll be in good hands, since there's a lot of good teachers there, plus several of my friends are students there, including my little brother Kusa. But, why Shujin specifically, if I'm allowed to ask?" Ren said. Iwai chuckled at this and spoke up.

"Heh, good question. Apparently, he wants to become like you. Ain't that dumb? You won't even be at that school anymore." Iwai said as Ren spoke up.

"I find it flattering, personally. But as I said before, between my girlfriend, my little brother, the girl I consider the younger sister I never had, and several of my friends, Kaoru will not be without friendly faces to interact with." Ren said as Iwai chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, well said. But don't forget that there'll be a lot of people who want to follow in your footsteps, kid. And, well, being a bro means someone will be followin' your footsteps. But I can't leave everything to you. I'm the parent here, so I gotta do my job. Hm, oh, almost forgot. Oh yeah, here. It's an Iwai-family gecko. Take good care of it, okay?" Iwai said as he handed Ren a 'Gecko Pin' key item. Iwai kept speaking at that point.

"But, y'know, I have to say. Having you around the place helped me realize something. Times sure have changed, haven't they? But I'm not goin' obsolete yet. I still got more to learn, just like you. Looks like you've got plenty of guys followin' your lead now, Ren. I'm real glad we met. Take care." Iwai said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Likewise, Iwai-san. Take care of yourself, my friend." Ren said as he and Iwai shook hands before Ren left the shop to continue saying his farewells. After getting back out onto the main section of Central Street, Ren noticed Haru standing in front of the Big Bang Burger and walked over to her, speaking up as he approached her.

"Well, well. I thought I'd have to go find you at Shujin, Haru." Ren said as Haru turned to face Ren, blinking in surprise before smiling as she spoke up.

"Hm? Ren-kun, I didn't think I'd see you here. To be honest, it's a little strange meeting here. Oh, that reminds me. The new coffee shop venture is progressing toward opening its first location. Actually, I'll be involved with its launch even while attending college." Haru said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"I see. So you're going for your dream, then. I'm impressed, Haru." Ren said honestly. Haru nodded and spoke up.

"Indeed I am. It's an early step, but nevertheless an important one. As such, I can only imagine it'll be difficult. I'll have to balance my studies and managing the company very carefully. But it's all for the sake of making my dream come true, so I swear I'll make this work. Oh, almost forgot. By the way, I tried making something for you." Haru said as she handed Ren a 'Dyed Handkerchief' key item. Haru then kept speaking.

"I know it might not seem like much, but I want you to have it. I'd like to sell handcrafted goods at my cafe as well eventually, so this is the first step in my practice." Haru said as Ren spoke up.

"Thank you, big sis. I'll treasure it." Ren said as Haru smiled and spoke up.

"You're welcome. I want to live up to my grandfather's reputation, after all, and hopefully restore the reputation of Okumura Foods. Not only that, I want to build a good rapport with my customers when I open my own business and also live up to my father's legacy. That said, it has to be a comforting, welcoming place for everyone. Basically, someplace to spend your peaceful hours. Once it opens, we should all meet up there. Just like our days at Leblanc, hanging out together." Haru said as Ren spoke up.

"Heh, I had a feeling you took some inspiration for that from Boss." Ren said with a smirk as Haru nodded and spoke up.

"Well, I'm sure you have other farewells to get to, so I won't keep you waiting. I'll see you tomorrow, little bro." Haru said as Ren nodded and kept moving after shocking Haru by hugging her. Ren then went into the arcade, unsurprisingly finding Ryuji waiting inside. Ren walked over and fist-bumped Ryuji as he spoke up.

"Yo, Ryuji. What's bonkin', man?" Ren said as Ryuji looked up and spoke up.

"Ah, wassup, RenRen? Yo. Man, spring break's supposed to be the most fun part of the year, but instead you're just moving away and leavin' us behind, man. But then again, so am I. I guess this is probably the last time we'll be meeting up here." Ryuji said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I guess so. Still, I want you to know something, bro. I'll never forget you, or what we've been through together, Ryuji." Ren said honestly. Ryuji winced at Ren's words and spoke up.

"C'mon! Dude, don't say it like that! You make it sound like I'm gonna die or somethin'! Look, this isn't gonna be the last time we see each other. I'll come visit whenever you want. And honestly? Even with the rehab, I dunno if my leg's ever gonna be how it was before Kamoshida broke it. But when I think about how much I wanna run, well, truth be told?

I figure there's no point lyin' to myself. Nothing's guaranteed. I dunno if I'm gonna get anywhere. But you could say that for any goal, right? And I don't wanna live stuck on regrets, or shame. I'd rather just run forward, man. And keep on runnin'." Ryuji said as he handed Ren a 'Sports Watch' key item. Ryuji then kept speaking before Ren could say a word.

"Here. I figure you can track your times with this if you start runnin'. And hey, you better keep in practice too! See, if we share our times, we can even compete from far away. But, man. When I think about going to school without you guys at my side, eh, I dunno. I can't imagine it. It's nice feelin' like I got a future worth lookin' forward to for once, though. And it's all thanks to you, man." Ryuji said as Ren nodded, shaking Ryuji's hand as he spoke up.

"Likewise, man. Sorry for being a bit of a downer before. I was just speaking on impulse a bit. But for real, good luck with your dreams, bro." Ren said as he turned around and left the arcade after pocketing Ryuji's gift. Ren then headed down into the Underground Walkway, where sure enough, Yusuke was waiting for Ren. Ren walked over to Yusuke and spoke up.

"Hey there, Yusuke. Here for more people-watching?" Ren asked as Yusuke looked at Ren and spoke up.

"Ah, Ren. That's right, I nearly forgot. You'll be departing tomorrow. It's sad to see this as a season of farewells, but I didn't expect we'd ALL go our separate ways so close together, truth be told." Yusuke said as Ren spoke up.

"True. Even so, you have to agree that it's been one hell of a year we've known each other, bro. And it's not like we're ALL going our separate ways. After all, both Kusa and Futaba are going to remain in Yongen for at least a while longer for schooling. Plus Kusa lives in Leblanc basically full-time now, so you'll at least have him to spend time with. So it's not like you're being left alone, bro." Ren said kindly to Yusuke, who chuckled and nodded his agreement before giving Ren a closed-eye smile as he spoke up.

"Heh, that's true enough. And saying it's been a hell of a year is putting it mildly. This time last year, I was still a blind fool who was stuck under Madarame's thumb. Back then, I'd never have imagined I'd meet you all, leave my home, or become a phantom thief. Incidentally, do you remember the painting I submitted to that competition, Ren? 'Desire and Hope', it was called. Well, I would like to bestow it upon you as a parting gift." Yusuke said, handing Ren a 'Desire and Hope' key item, which Ren accepted while speaking up.

"Thanks. I'll take good care of it, Yusuke. Not sure how I'll fit it in my bag, but I'll probably figure something out." Ren said as Yusuke spoke up.

"Good. See that you do, Ren. Meanwhile, as of now, my canvas is still blank. And it's not for lack of inspiration. There's so much I want to express, that I can barely contain my passion. But my heart has not led me astray yet. I'll paint as it guides me. Even should I scar my work with doubt, hesitation, chaos, and so on, certainly that's a beauty all its own. Ren, your life is no worse for its own scars. Your truest beauty lies in them, and I hope you tell me their stories someday." Yusuke said as Ren nodded before speaking up.

"Can do, Yusuke. But you are aware we'll meet again eventually, right? So we'll no doubt have much to discuss when that day comes. For example, we'll see each other tomorrow, since I'm sure you guys plan to see me off." Ren said as Yusuke nodded, the two exchanging a manly one-armed hug and shaking hands before Ren kept moving. After a bit, Ren found himself in the Underground Mall, where Ren found himself walking over to Ann and speaking up.

"Hey there, sis. Somehow I'm not surprised I'd find you here shopping." Ren said with a smirk as Ann blinked and turned to face Ren as she spoke up.

"Oh, Ren, you're here. Did you come here for souvenirs, bro? This place has everything. Truthfully, I'm busy getting ready for my study abroad, too. Gotta research schools, places to live, stuff like that. But we're all splitting off to do our own thing, huh? Honestly, it's not really hitting me yet, Ren." Ann said as Ren spoke up.

"Me either, sis. But I know we'll see each other again, so I'm not that upset by it." Ren said wisely. Ann gave Ren a closed-eye smile and spoke up.

"Yeah, totally! It's not like we're all leaving forever! I mean, we still have the group chat to talk in, and I'll still be messaging you all. And you gotta respond! By the way, um, Ren? A little girl stopped me the other day in Shibuya. She said she saw me in magazines, and she also said that she wants to be just like me when she grows up. It felt incredible. Oh, right, almost forgot. Vague did a special piece on me in this month's issue." Ann said, handing Ren a 'Fashion Magazine' key item. Ann then kept speaking.

"I said it all in the interview, but I want you to hear it too. I'm gonna work hard. One day, I'll be modeling across the world. I've gotta reach people. I wanna give someone hope, like you did for me. So, thank you for all you've done. The days I spent with you were some of the brightest in my life. But once I'm a star, I'm gonna shine even brighter, though. So you better watch out for me!" Ann said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Can do, sis. Well, good luck with your goals. I'll see you tomorrow, since I'm pretty sure you guys are planning on seeing me off when I get the train home with Morgana." Ren said, hugging Ann before he kept moving. On a whim, Ren headed over to Kichijoji for old time's sake. Once he got there, he was surprised to see a familiar looking dark-haired male standing near the entrance to the promenade, walking over to him and speaking up. *2*

"Well, well. I didn't think I'd find you here. Shibusawa-san, right?" Ren asked the dark-haired male, who turned out to be Maruki's old friend Shibusawa. Shibusawa nodded and spoke up in surprise.

"I could say the same, you know. Oh, you're Takuto's friend. Amamiya-kun the elder, right? I realize you may not be the best person to ask, but even so, I need to know. Have you seen Maruki lately?" Shibusawa asked as Ren spoke up.

"Nope. Haven't seen him since he left Shujin back in November. Heard a few rumors about him here and there since, like him continuing his research into cognitive psience, but I've not really seen him since he ended his tenure at Shujin." Ren said honestly. Shibusawa nodded and spoke up.

"I see. The thing is, he suddenly showed up here the other day. He was acting kind of strange, talking about taking responsibility for the things he's done recently, things like that. I don't know what he was going on about, but he's always been a pretty intense guy. Even back in school, he's always rushed into things without considering the trouble he could be getting into for doing things so recklessly. Heh, but I'm guessing I don't need to tell YOU that about him, knowing him as well as you do and all." Shibusawa said as Ren spoke up.

"I wouldn't say he and I knew each other THAT well. Sure, we were friends, and we had a certain closeness, but I wouldn't say I know him as well as you do, Shibusawa-san. Incidentally, did he seem all right when he showed up here?" Ren asked. Shibusawa nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah, he seemed to be doing well, but it's hard to believe he hasn't kept in touch with others lately, though. What surprised me the most was-No. No, I probably shouldn't mention it. Anyway, he does seem to be doing all right-well, for Maruki's standards, at least. And who knows? Maybe he'll pop up again when you least expect it. He does crazy stuff like that all the time." Shibusawa said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Duly noted. Well, I gotta be on my way. I'm just here looking around one last time for nostalgia's sake. I'm due to take the train back to my hometown tomorrow, you see." Ren said as Shibusawa nodded and spoke up.

"I see. Well, good luck to you in the future, Amamiya-kun the elder." Shibusawa said as Ren nodded, shaking Shibusawa's hand as he kept moving. After walking around a bit, he found a familiar-looking man in a suit in the back section of Kichijoji, walking over to him and speaking up.

"Ah, didn't think I'd run into you here. Takakura-san, right?" Ren said as Takakura looked up and nodded as he spoke up.

"That's right. Do I-? Oh, you're Haru's friend. I see, the schools are all on spring break." Takakura said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"That's right. Though in my case, I'm also getting ready to go back to my hometown tomorrow, so I'm just taking a last stroll around everywhere I've been to during the past year that I've lived in Tokyo. That said, why are you here, if you don't mind my asking, Takakura-san?" Ren said honestly. Takakura chuckled and spoke up.

"Ha ha, good question. I just happen to know some of the cafes around here. I often take strolls in this area on my breaks. Everyone needs to relax once in a while, you know. Both adults and children alike. Especially Haru. She does have a tendency to stretch herself too thin, it seems like. I'd like to ask that you occasionally spend this kind of time with her. Unhurried, with just the two of you alone." Takakura said as Ren spoke up.

"I understand. But keep in mind, Haru and I see each other as siblings, plus I already have a girlfriend. So if you were hoping to set us up together, I'm gonna have to say no to it now, Takakura-san. Besides, I get the sense she already has her eye on someone else." Ren said wisely. Takakura nodded and spoke up.

"I see. I assure you though, Amamiya-kun, that was not my intention. Very good, though. As long as you care about each other, even if it's only as siblings, you two will be just fine. As such, I'm counting on you to look after her." Takakura said as Ren nodded and kept moving. After a bit, Ren found himself at the entrance of the Jazz Jin, where Akechi's acquaintance Muhen, or the manager of the Jazz Jin, was standing outside. Ren walked over and spoke up.

"Hello there, Muhen-san. On a break?" Ren said as Muhen blinked and spoke up.

"Hm? Oh, so sorry, we're closed today, I'm afraid. No, wait. You're friends with Akechi-kun, right?" Muhen asked. Ren winced at the question slightly before nodding as he spoke up.

"I know Akechi-kun, if that's what you're asking. As for him and I being friends? That, I don't know about. He always maintained that he and I were rivals of a sort, and we started tolerating each other more recently." Ren said honestly. Muhen blinked at that and spoke up.

"Huh? But I remember when the two of you came here last. It was rare to see him with another person. That said, I haven't seen Akechi-kun in a while. I'm kind of worried about him. So would you do me a favor? Next time you see him, tell him to come by again." Muhen said as Ren frowned, knowing that Akechi is already presumed deceased after saving Kusa from captivity in an abandoned Palace.

Ren then blinked as he felt something in his pocket. Ren smiled as he remembered it was Akechi's glove. He also recalled that Akechi had promised him a rematch. Ren nodded to himself, knowing that his rivalry with Akechi, friendly though it might be, was not over just yet. Muhen saw the pensive look on Ren's face and kept speaking.

"Well, I won't insist. But you and Akechi-kun can swing by anytime. And any other friends of yours are more than welcome here. Just make sure to tell them to mention they're friends of yours when they come in, so I can welcome them. Also, those guys who came in with you month before last, the blue-haired male and the male with the ponytail? I consider them welcome in my place of business anytime. So be sure to pass that on to them when you see them." Muhen said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Okay, I will let them know. And when I see Akechi-kun again, I'll pass your message along to him." Ren said agreeably. Muhen nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah? Good answer. Do come again. I'll be looking forward to it." Muhen said as Ren nodded and kept moving. After careful consideration, Ren headed to Aoyama-Itchome to go look at Shujin Academy's building once more. Once there, he found Makoto waiting at the station platform and walked over to her and spoke up.

"Well, well, didn't think I'd run into you here, big sis." Ren said to Makoto, who smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"Oh, Ren. What a coincidence to run into you here, little bro. I was just getting some of my college enrollment papers ready. And soon enough, I'll be living on my own, too. New beginnings for the both of us, I suppose." Makoto said as Ren spoke up.

"That's true. Either way, you know I'll be rooting for you to do well in college, big sis." Ren said kindly. Makoto smiled at Ren and spoke up with a closed-eye smile.

"Thanks, little bro. You'd better take care of yourself back home, too. Anyways, my sister and I are actually going to look at my new place soon. And just think. A year ago, all this would have been unthinkable for me. But nobody told me to do this. It's a path I chose for myself. If I'd never met you, and stayed a simple honor student and teacher's pet? I'd never have realized I had that choice." Makoto said before handing Ren a 'Buchi Calculator' key item. Makoto then spoke up.

"So, it might not be much, but I want you to have this, little brother. It helped me learn to love studying. And one day, I'll be a police commissioner. I know it won't be easy, or pleasant. But I also know I'll never give up. By giving this to you, I want to prove that. After all, we fought back to save our world together, so it seems only fair you keep it. Also, I want you to know that you're an irreplaceable comrade to me, little brother. You always have been, and you always will be." Makoto said as Ren smiled, hugging Makoto as he spoke up.

"Thank you, big sis. That means a lot. Good luck with your dreams." Ren said as Makoto nodded before Ren kept moving. On his way to Shujin, Ren heard his name called, turning to see Takeishi and Nakaoka waving to him. Ren walked over to them as Takeishi spoke up.

"Oh, Amamiya the elder. Didn't think I'd see you here. Did Sakamoto tell you yet? He's gonna be doing track again." Takeishi said as Nakaoka spoke up.

"And let me tell you, the guy's crazy! It sounds like he's going right into physical rehab once he's all settled in after the move. But man, I'm just glad I'll get to run with him again." Nakaoka said as Takeishi nodded and spoke up.

"I agree with Nakaoka. But don't worry, we're gonna help with his comeback however we can. The guy's a hell of a runner, after all. I hope we can find ways to support him." Takeishi said as Nakaoka nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah. Point is, you don't have to worry about him, man. Even if you end up moving back to your hometown, he'll still have guys looking out for him. Also, don't worry about your younger brother. I hear the guys on both the karate team and the student council are taking it upon themselves to look out for him. Plus, I hear he's considering actually joining the karate team when the new school year starts, if you can believe that." Nakaoka said as Takeishi spoke up.

"I know it'll be hard to get used to, but don't let it get you down." Takeishi said as Ren nodded and kept moving, slightly shocked by the reveals about Kusa. After walking forward for a bit, Ren saw Kawakami standing by the front gate of Shujin, walking over to her and speaking up.

"Heh, fancy seeing you here, Miss Kawakami. I thought you'd be elsewhere since it's spring break?" Ren said as Kawakami blinked at Ren and spoke up.

"Oh, it's you, Amamiya-kun the elder. What a coincidence. I'm about to give a lecture. Did you possibly come to see the campus? Oh, wait, that's right. You're going back home tomorrow, right Amamiya-kun the elder? Make sure you keep up your studies there, okay? I heard that Amamiya-kun the younger is staying here in Yongen, though, so I know that's gotta be rough for you, knowing you're about to have to part ways with him. But don't let it get you down. After all, you two are brothers, so you'll always be connected." Kawakami said as Ren spoke up.

"I'll do that, Miss Kawakami. Also, before I forget? Thank you so much, for everything you've done for me this past year. I might not always have shown it, but I am grateful and appreciative of all you've done." Ren said honestly, bowing slightly for effect as he spoke. Kawakami gave Ren a closed eye smile and spoke up.

"Of course, Amamiya-kun the elder. And let me know if there's anything you need. You know, this is the last time we'll see each other for a while. You can at least look a little sad about it. Heh, I'm kidding. Honestly, seeing you so happy gives me peace of mind. And now that you're heading out into the world, I've got a present for you." Kawakami said, handing Ren an 'Unlimited Service' key item. After chuckling, Kawakami gave Ren another closed-eye smile and spoke up.

"Y'know, it sounds like the setup to a joke. A student bumps into his teacher in a full French maid outfit by chance. But somehow, that opened up all kinds of new paths in my life. You taught me so much. You're not just my best student, Amamiya-kun the elder. You were a great master, too. And now, I can make up from all the times I distanced myself from my students. I'll help anyone who needs it. Anyways, the point is, I'll put in the work. I learned a lot from you, and I won't let that go to waste." Kawakami said before she shocked Ren by pulling him into a hug as she spoke up.

"Please, take care of yourself, Amamiya-kun the elder. And don't worry about your brother and Yoshizawa-san. As long as they're students here, I'll look out for them for you." Kawakami said as Ren nodded, thanked Kawakami, and shook her hand before he kept moving. Ren decided to head into the gym on a whim, being surprised to find a brown-haired male waiting for him inside.

"Oh, you're that guy that was with Sakamoto the other day." The brown-haired male said as Ren spoke up.

"Yeah, that's correct. You're Ikeda-senpai, right? I'm Sakamoto's friend, Ren Amamiya. Until recently, I was a second year at Shujin." Ren said, introducing himself properly to the brown-haired male, who Ren had identified as Ikeda. Ikeda nodded and spoke up.

"That's right. Also, I thought so. No wonder you looked familiar. Hey, is it true that Sakamoto wants to go back to the track team so much that he's moving just so he can do rehab? I hope it is. I felt so happy hearing that! It'd be lame if he didn't do anything! So, I'm plannin' on helping him as much as possible. Don't you think it'd be awesome if he and I'd be able to run together again?" Ikeda said as Ren nodded before Ikeda spoke up once more.

"Also, are you related to that one first-year with the brown hair that he often wears in a ponytail? He comes in a lot, so I spot him from time to time as he works out. Turns out he's apparently been asked to join the Shujin karate team in the new school year. He hasn't answered yet, but I feel like it'd be a good opportunity for him." Ikeda said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"If he was mouthy and had very little filter on him, that's probably my little brother Kusa. He's a good guy though, once you get to know him. And you're now the second person to mention that to me. That being said, I should probably get going, since I still have a few more places to be as I look around the area once more. You see, I'm returning to my hometown tomorrow." Ren said to Ikeda, who nodded as Ren left the gym. Afterwards, Ren decided to go to Kanda to see Hifumi. Once at the church, he gently sat in the seat next to her, where she was playing shogi with herself, and spoke up.

"Been a bit, hasn't it Hifumi?" Ren said coyly as Hifumi blinked on recognizing Ren's voice, looked up, and smiled at him as she spoke up.

"Oh, Ren. It's you. I see that you came to visit. You're going home tomorrow, correct? To tell you the truth, it's good timing you came when you did. You see, I have an important shogi tournament tomorrow as well." Hifumi said as Ren spoke up.

"I'll be cheering you on, Hifumi. But then again, I'm sure Yusuke will be cheering you on too. As your boyfriend, that's his job to do so." Ren said kindly. Hifumi shyly smiled and spoke up.

"Thank you very much, Ren. And if I do well, that will make it ten straight wins I've gotten in a row. I'll work hard so I can give you a good report. Heh, but you know? That's quite a smile you've got there. Like a knight standing victorious at the end of a grand siege or something. But, I suppose a knight can't remain idle for too long in the end. After all, his presence is still needed elsewhere, I take it? Even so, if my shogi skills have truly helped such a dauntless champion, then it has been an honor and a pleasure. As such, from one player to another, I have a parting gift for you, Ren." Hifumi said as she gave Ren a 'Kosha Piece' key item. Hifumi then gave Ren a very cute smile and kept speaking.

"That said, here is a bit of useful information about Shogi. The lance piece moves exclusively forward. Until it is promoted, it can only move onward, and never back. So, let us continue on our own paths. Even if we have to part ways for now. And, fate willing? One day, when the two of us Lances have been promoted, we will retrace our steps and meet again." Hifumi said as Ren nodded and kept moving, knowing that he only had one last person to bid farewell to, two if you count Kusa. Once Ren got back to Akihabara, he found Mishima near the entrance and approached him.

"Well, well. It's been too long, Mister Strategic Image Management Representative. How've you been, Mishima?" Ren said to Mishima, who blinked and spoke up.

"Oh, Amamiya the elder! So, you're finally heading home tomorrow, huh? I guess this means the Phantom Thieves have disbanded now. Speaking of which, my documentary script is going well though. It's not really close to done, but it's coming along." Mishima said as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"I see. What's the title for it, if you have one?" Ren asked. Mishima blinked at the question and spoke up.

"Huh? Well, I haven't really gotten to that part yet. I've been too busy actually writing it. But when I need one, I'll definitely be consulting the ex-Phantom Thieves themselves. That said, it makes me wonder how many people I can reach with my work at once. It's exciting, but kind of scary too. It might be a best seller, you know. Or, it might just fade into obscurity.

But I want to put my hope into this. It's a message from the old me to everyone in the world. So, as such, even if I'm scared of failing, I'll face this head-on! Just like you did with that first calling card. Oh yeah, almost forgot! I know it's still a pretty early draft, but here." Mishima said as he handed Ren a 'Documentary Plans' key item. Mishima smiled at Ren and spoke up.

"It'd mean a lot if you could read it sometime. I could really use your feedback. That said, you probably had tons of crazy fights I don't even know about, right? So, we should sit down and talk about them sometime. The more of it I get on record, the better. I'll make sure the story of the Phantom Thieves of Hearts, or the Phantom Crew as they're also known, goes down in history!" Mishima said as Ren nodded and shook Mishima's hand before speaking up.

"I see. I'll be looking forward to reading your finished work, Mishima." Ren said as he kept moving. After thinking it over, Ren decided to go look around Shinjuku for old time's sake. While there, he didn't see many people of note, but he decided to go poke his head into Crossroads to see if Lala might be working so he could say goodbye to her at least. Once he gently pushed the door open, Lala bllinked as she looked over and spoke up.

"What the-? Oh. Is that you, kid? What brings you here at a time like this?" Lala asked as Ren spoke up.

"I came to see if you were here, actually. I'm due to go back to my hometown tomorrow, so I'm going around saying my final farewells to everyone I've met while I was in Tokyo this past year, and you were one of the last on the list, so here I am." Ren said as Lala blinked and spoke up.

"Oh, is that right? I must say, there's a fire in your eyes now, boy. And I have to say, it suits you. Come back anytime! No, but for real, come back to this bar once you become an adult. I'll break out some of my finest drinks for you and the girlfriend, if you bring her along. I hear she's a lively one." Lala said as Ren chuckled and spoke up.

"You have no idea, Lala-san. You have no idea. Though it might be a little while before I'm back in this neck of the woods. Well, farewell for now." Ren said as he left Crossroads. While checking his map, Ren was surprised to see that he was able to travel to Ueno for whatever reason. On going there, he found Kawanabe waiting for him. On noticing Ren, Kawanabe spoke up.

"Oh? Amamiya-kun the elder? It's been a while. I just got a call from Kitagawa-kun. He said he's found a new theme he wishes to paint." Kawanabe said as Ren spoke up.

"A theme, you say? Interesting." Ren said. Kawanabe nodded and spoke up.

"Yes, indeed. Granted, he didn't give me the details, but I was able to pick up the gist of it. It was something about friendship. Heh, I'm so excited, I can hardly contain it. rather unbecoming of a person my age, I know, but still. I'm sure you understand, though. Whatever it is he comes up with, it's sure to be a masterpiece. I very much look forward to the day I can see it." Kawanabe said as Ren nodded, bid Kawanabe farewell and headed off elsewhere.

Ren blinked as he noticed he could travel to the 'Seaside Park', doing so. On getting there, he spotted a woman he recognized as Ann's rival, Mika, posing for a photo shoot. As he hung back he heard the cameramen asking Mika to look in various directions. Mika noticed Ren and spoke up.

"Oh, it's you. You're Ann's friend, right? Are you going around bidding people farewell? I heard her telling one of the cameramen you were due to go back to your hometown soon? Well, good luck. Regardless, I'm not about to lose to a dolt like her. So excuse me while I get back to work." Mika said as Ren nodded and moved on elsewhere. After looking around a while longer, Ren concluded he'd said all the good-byes he could say, not having seen Chihaya, Ohya, or Shinya anywhere. After that, Ren headed back to Yongen-Jaya, making his way back to Leblanc, where Morgana spoke up as Ren went to go inside.

"Hm? Have you said all your goodbyes?" Morgana asked as Ren spoke up.

"I've said all the good-byes I can say, at least. I couldn't find Maruki, Sumire, Ohya, Chihaya, or Shinya anywhere to bid them farewell, but I know Sumire's at her training camp, and I have no idea about the rest. Still, other than Kusa's farewell later on, I've said all the good-byes I wanted to say, yes. So for now, I guess let's go home." Ren said as Morgana spoke up.

"Are you really sure?" Morgana asked as Ren spoke up.

"I don't think I missed anyone? So yes, I'm really sure." Ren said as Morgana nodded his understanding before wincing as he spoke up.

"Fair enough. Hey, um, I know I'm going back with you and all, but I actually have a present for you too, Ren." Morgana said as he handed Ren a 'Morgana's Scarf' key item. Morgana kept speaking at that point, looking sheepish as he spoke.

"To be honest? Even when I was human, I kept holding onto this for some reason. Between a cat, a human, or some kind of vehicle, well, it's been hard to say for sure who or what I am. But whatever else I am, I can say without a doubt that I know this to be true. Ren, I'm your partner." Morgana said as Ren patted Morgana on the head gently and spoke up.

"Partner? Nah, Morgana. You're a lot more than that. You're also like a brother to me. And I know Kusa and I both already told you that no matter what you look like, you'll always have a place with us." Ren said gently to Morgana, who smiled and spoke up.

"Heh, thanks Ren. Well then, if we're all done saying our good-byes, we should probably go home and get packed, huh?" Morgana said as Ren nodded and headed inside, where Sojiro and Futaba were waiting. Sojiro smirked at Ren as he spoke up.

"Did you finish saying all your goodbyes?" Sojiro asked as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah, for the most part. But there were a few people, such as Kusa, Sumire, and Akechi, who I wasn't actually able to say goodbye to for obvious reasons. But other than those few people, I said all my goodbyes." Ren said as Sojiro spoke up.

"I see. Well, how'd it go? Did it make you feel like you wanna stay?" Sojiro asked as Ren smiled and spoke up.

"Of course it did, Boss. You know I'd gladly stay here if I could. But we both know I have to go back, if only because I have unfinished business in my hometown. Plus I can't entirely close the book on my legal issues until I go back home for the court hearing to formally discontinue my probation and have my criminal record wiped clean. Also, I promised people I'd return to them. And I can't go back on that." Ren said honestly. Sojiro nodded and spoke up.

"Oh, yeah? I see. You must've made a lot of good memories here. You're leaving early tomorrow from Shibuya, right? Make sure you pack up before you head to sleep. Oh, and take that stupid cat with you. I don't want it getting lost and ending up back here." Sojiro said as Morgana huffed and spoke up indignantly, forgetting as he did so that Sojiro still couldn't understand him.

"Hey, don't make fun of me! I can go wherever I want all by myself!" Morgana said as Sojiro chuckled and spoke up.

"Heh, it really never stops meowing, huh?" Sojiro said as he turned to Futaba and spoke up.

"Hey, Futaba? What's the cat saying? Is he sad that he has to leave me?" Sojiro asked as Futaba spoke up with a coy smile.

"That's not what I heard. From what I heard, he said, 'Sojiro's stupid.', among other things." Futaba said as Ren and Sojiro both frowned at her, the latter speaking up.

"What!?" Sojiro said as Ren frowned at Futaba and spoke up.

"I know you know better than to lie like that, little sister." Ren rebuked Futaba before turning to Sojiro as he kept speaking.

"No, he said he's able to go wherever he wants all by himself. I think you hurt his feelings when you called him stupid. Ignore Futaba's translation. I think she's trying to tease Morgana." Ren said as Morgana frowned at Futaba and spoke up.

"Hey! What kind of translation is that!? Let me have a nice goodbye!" Morgana rebuked Futaba who giggled and spoke up.

"Hee hee, don't be so uptight, you guys! I was teasing. Anyways, take care of him, Ren. Mona's your responsibility now. Leave Kusa and Sojiro to me!" Futaba said as Ren spoke up.

"Okay? But isn't it supposed to be the other way around, since Kusa and Sojiro usually work together to watch out for you and be there for you?" Ren asked. Futaba huffed and spoke up.

"Technically you're right, but that's not true! I promise I'll take really good care of them! Especially of Kusa! I'll make him as happy as I possibly can." Futaba said huffily as Sojiro sighed and crossed his arms before speaking up.

"Oh, man. Hard to believe this is the last night I'll get to hear you two bickering like this for quite a while. Granted, I'll still have Kusa living here, but I dunno. It won't be quite the same with you also being here, Ren. But I know you've gotta do your own thing." Sojiro said as Futaba spoke up.

"What Sojiro said. And even if you're not here, big bro, I'll make sure I do my best every day. So, once you go home, you go do your best too, Ren!" Futaba said, starting to wipe her eyes, showing that she was fighting back tears. Ren smiled as he walked foward to wrap the girl he considered a little sister in a hug, speaking up as he patted her head and spoke up.

"Shh. You can let it out, Futaba. I won't judge. And I'll miss you too." Ren said as Futaba quietly sniffled a bit into Ren's shirt before speaking up.

"I know you will, big bro. And thank you, so much. I'll always be grateful to you for everything you've done for both me and for Sojiro." Futaba said as Ren nodded and headed upstairs to start packing.

After a little bit, Ren heard footsteps on the stairs, looking up in time to see Kusa walk up. After giving Ren an unreadable look, he sat on the sofa and spoke up.

"Well, I guess this is it, huh bro? Our last day together living in the same place. Who'd have thought it? When we came here together, I guarantee you neither of us could have ever imagined that when it came time to go home, we wouldn't actually be going back together. But that's just the way the cookie crumbles in this case. However, I want you to know something, Ren. I might not be there with you when you go back, but I'll always be there for you in spirit.

I know I give you shit a lot. But dammit Ren, you're still my older brother! And for as much as you can piss me off at times with your buffoonery, I still love you despite that. So I want you to do your best when you get home. And hey, make sure you take care of Mom for me, yeah? I'll try to head back that way every so often to visit, but with how busy I'm likely going to be in the coming months, I dunno when I can fit that in." Kusa said, smirking at the confused look on Ren's face as he kept speaking.

"Oh, didn't I tell you? It turns out that Makoto got to make a recommendation on who should take her spot as student council president once she graduates. And for some reason, she recommended me to be the new president. Not gonna lie to you, Ren. That shocked the hell out of me when I first heard. But after thinking about it, it makes a lot of sense. After all, I'm as good a leader as you or Makoto, so I can see why she'd want me to succeed her as student council president.

Plus, since I'm gonna be at Shujin, why not do my part to make the school a better place? On top of that, I've been approached by the leader of the school karate team to join up. And between us? I think I'm going to join the team. I know when I got here that I said I'd step back from competitive martial arts, but my rivalry of sorts with Akechi this past year has reminded me how cathartic and even productive it can be to have a friendly rival to push you to your limits and make you continually better yourself, much like how Akechi did for you, along with Maruki.

So yeah, I'm gonna be doing both of those while also fitting in time for Taba as well. Likely as not, this means that free time will be farther and fewer between for me. But I look forward to it, since it lets me show what I can do. And on that note, I'd like you to have this." Kusa said, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a notebook filled with notes that were clearly in Kusa's handwriting. Ren smiled as he accepted the 'Financier's Notebook' key item. Kusa then kept speaking.

"I know it might not seem like much, but that's the notebook I used when I first started really getting serious about bettering my money-handling skills. And while you have truly come a long ways from how you were when we first got here, you can always stand to better yourself, Ren. So I hope that by looking at these notes, you'll not only think of me, but remember what I've taught you, both about handling money and about being a better person. If nothing else, I hope it reminds you that no matter what, we'll always be connected in our hearts.

We might be parting ways for now, Ren, but I know we'll meet again someday. And I hope that when we do, you'll have a lot of stories to tell me of what you've been through since we parted ways. I'll do my best to be able to return the favor. And don't worry about Sumire. I'll be sure to look after her for you as best I can while you're gone. I know that deep down, she's gonna miss you like crazy, even if she won't admit it.

So you'd better make it a point to come back and visit from time to time, Ren. Even if it's just to surprise Sumire, you need to return here periodically. But enough about that. You were in the middle of packing, yeah? Would you like a hand with that?" Kusa asked as Ren shook his head and spoke up.

"No, that's okay. I've got it. If you want to help, I won't stop you, but I can handle it. I just have to make sure I pick up Morgana from Boss' house before I leave tomorrow." Ren said as Kusa nodded before surprising Ren by walking forward and pulling Ren gently into a hug, thumping him gently on the back in a manly fashion as he spoke up, trying to blink back the tears he could feel coming.

"I understand. Good luck with your path going forward, Ren. I'll miss you a lot, brother. But I know that it's for the best that our paths split at this time. Let us both make the most of our new paths going forward." Kusa said as Ren nodded, patting his brother on the back comfortingly before the two broke apart and finished Ren's packing. After a bit, Kusa turned and headed towards the steps.

"Well, I'm heading back now. I'll try to remember to send Morgana along later, but if I forget, I'll make sure he gets back here before you leave tomorrow. If I don't make it to see you off, good-bye Ren. I love you." Kusa said, turning and heading back down the stairs and leaving a shocked Ren to blink after him, but nod firmly, knowing that was probably the hardest thing that Kusa's ever had to do and being proud that Kusa was able to do so with a straight face. After he finished packing, he laid down for what he knew would be his last night in the attic of Leblanc...

(Later that evening, in the living room of the Sakura house, with Morgana and Kusa)

"Hard to believe this is probably one of the last times I'll see you for a while, Morgana. I always thought we'd be around each other all the time. But now, you're about to go back with Ren when he returns to our hometown. I know you already said you would, but I'm counting on you to keep an eye on Ren and make sure he's not going through things alone. I feel I can trust you to have his back, Morgana. So do that for me, won't you?

And also, I want you to know that I appreciate everything you've done, not just for me, but for the entire group. You've come such a long way from the arrogant, over-confident being you were when we first met you, Morgana. Now, you're gallant, kind, selfless, and noble. You've matured a great deal in the time I've known you, and I'm truly proud and blessed to have called you my Sensei.

So know that I will always respect and love you, Morgana. You're more than just my Sensei. You're like my younger brother. And I'll always be grateful to you for helping to make me a better person. So yeah, thank you. For everything. I know you're not leaving until tomorrow, but I feel like I need to say these good-byes to you now, while I can." Kusa said, surprising Morgana by carefully hugging him to his chest, making Morgana blink as he felt the tears hit his fur from where Kusa was crying while hugging him. Morgana looked up at Kusa and spoke up while nuzzling him comfortingly.

"Kusa, it's okay. I know this isn't easy for you, but please don't cry. We'll see each other again. And I'm going to miss you too, you know. You might be long-winded and uptight at times, but you were one of the few who loved me unconditionally, and I'll always be grateful to you for that. Thank you, truly. I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart. So please, cheer up, won't you? After all, I would think you'd want to be smiling as you see us off. After all, this is only farewell for now. We will see each other again, Kusa. I promise you that." Morgana said as Kusa smiled, gently leaning in to press a kiss to the top of Morgana's head as he spoke up.

"You're right, of course. And I'm holding you to that promise, just so you know. So don't you go backing out on it. Now c'mon. Let's go lay together on the hide-a-bed, one last time. After all, after tomorrow, we won't be able to do that anymore, and I'd kinda like to at least be able to snuggle with you one last time before you go, brother." Kusa said as Morgana smiled and spoke up.

"Of course. Let's go spend some quality time together, Kusa. Let's watch some TV together, brother." Morgana said as Kusa nodded, getting comfortable on the hide-a-bed with Morgana, watching some TV with the cat, gently petting him as he laid with him. Unbeknownst to Kusa or Morgana, Futaba had overheard the whole thing and smiled sadly as she watched the two have a much-needed private good-bye/final bonding moment together.

Futaba swore to herself to be there for Kusa after Ren and Morgana went home, knowing he was probably going to need to be held up at first while he gets used to not having them around. As she went back to her room, she smiled slyly at the two brothers cuddling together, taking a photo of the adorable moment on her phone...

(The next morning, in the lower level of Leblanc, with Ren and Sojiro)

As Ren came downstairs, bag slung over his shoulder, Sojiro spoke up.

"Hey. So, this is it. You got everything?" Sojiro asked Ren, who nodded as Sojiro spoke up.

"It's odd. When I took you in, I thought I was the one helping you by taking you in. But as it turns out, it was also the other way around. You helped me out, and you also helped Futaba, so I'll always be grateful to you for that, Ren. Take care." Sojiro said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I'll do that, Boss. You take care too. And I'm trusting you and Futaba to look after Kusa for me, since he's staying here." Ren said as Sojiro smirked and spoke up.

"Heh, don't be so cheeky. Oh, and I'm sorry that it's just me. I wanted to have Futaba see you off too, but I haven't been able to find her since this morning though, which is odd. Same with that cat, now that I think about it. But last I saw him, he was comforting Kusa on the hide-a-bed last night. Apparently, Kusa broke down crying after he got Morgana home last night, and Morgana had to comfort him, or so Futaba claims. But anyways, if you end up back in the city in future, come on by. I'll at least treat you to a nice cup of coffee. Oh, but wait. That means I can't go closing the store, huh kid?" Sojiro said as Ren smirked while speaking up.

"That's not true, and you know it, Boss. Kusa's going to be here to lock up for you at night, you know." Ren said as Sojiro spoke up.

"Good point. Oh, but what're you doing here still? Hurry up and go." Sojiro said as Ren nodded and spoke up.

"I'm going. But before I go, thank you for everything, Boss. I'll never forget what you've done for me." Ren said as Sojiro frowned and spoke up.

"You're welcome. So yeah." Sojiro said as Ren walked out of Leblanc. Once he left, Sojiro wiped his eyes on his apron before replacing his glasses. After he left Leblanc for the final time, Ren made his way to Shibuya, where he heard his name being called, turning to see Ryuji and the others in a van, Ryuji waving to get Ren's attention. Oddly enough, Ren frowned at the immediate lack of Kusa in the vehicle. Futaba noticed this and spoke up.

"Kusa said to apologize for not being here. Apparently, he had places to be, whatever that means. But I understand he already said his good-byes to both you and Morgana last night. I can actually confirm that at least the latter happened. I have photographic proof of it on my phone. I'll send you the photos later." Futaba said as Ren nodded and Ryuji spoke up.

"Yooo, you over there! What's bonkin', my dude!? Told you we'd be here to see you off." Ryuji said before blinking as he and the others noticed the black car approaching, making Ryuji swear as he spoke up.

"Shit! Thought we'd lost them." Ryuji said as Makoto spoke up.

"What do we do? Those guys are persistent!" Makoto said as a car horn from nearby got the group's attention as a taxi pulled up next to them, and when the door was opened, literally everyone's jaw dropped as the identity of the driver was revealed. Ryuji spoke up to voice the group's shock as they saw who was driving.

"WHAT THE SHIT!? DOCTOR MARUKI!?" Ryuji said in shock as Maruki spoke up. *3*

"That's right. Sorry I'm late, had to pick someone up on the way." Maruki said as the camera panned to show a smirking Kusa sitting in the passenger seat. After he saw the shocked look on Ren's face, Kusa chuckled and spoke up.

"HA! As if I'd miss seeing you off, Ren. Come on now. I'm not that much of a coward, bro. Now hurry up and get in before those asshats catch up." Kusa said as Haru spoke up in surprise.

"Wait, are you suggesting that we split up for now?" Haru asked as the others blinked and Ann looked to Ryuji and spoke up.

"Well, should we split up?" Ann said as Ryuji thought about it before grinning and giving a thumbs-up as he nodded. At that point, Ren got into the backseat of the cab as the two cars pulled away to lose the black car tailing them. While Ren was riding with Kusa and Maruki, he spoke up.

"What the heck? I didn't think you'd show up with Maruki of all people, Kusa?" Ren said as Kusa spoke up.

"Eh, it's kinda funny. I had to go run an errand early, and when I was on my way back, I ran into him. When I told him you were leaving today, he offered to give me a lift here so he could also see you off. Also, he says he's sorry for what he put us all through. Even if he can't apologize to Sumire in person since she didn't show up to the gathering. Oh well, it is what it is." Kusa said as Maruki spoke up.

"Now, now. I understand she probably didn't want to say goodbye to her boyfriend, which is understandable, since no one likes saying goodbye." Maruki said as the cab pulled to the curb and turned to Ren as he kept speaking.

"Here we are. There's no charge this time. Just remember, we can all start over. Even like I myself have done. Sure, I wouldn't have anticipated choosing to be a cab driver, but as Kusa here often says, it is what it is. Incidentally, I'm impressed that Kusa shouldered the responsibility of two different extracurricular activities. Props to him. But back to you, if what I've told you helps you? Then, that makes us square." Maruki said as he stuck out his fist, which Ren fist bumped. After leaving Maruki's cab, waving to Kusa and saying good-bye to him as he did so, Ren turned to the other car where the others were gathered. Futaba spoke up as she saw Ren.

"Hmph. Go figure Kusa would be the one to find Doctor Maruki and bring him here. Those two wound up being rather close in the end, even if Kusa wasn't a fan of what Maruki did recently. But at least Kusa saw you off to some extent. So, I guess this is it, huh?" Futaba said as Ann nodded and spoke up.

"Yeah, it is. We're not the one that makes the train schedules, you know!" Ann said as Futaba sadly turned to Ren and spoke up.

"Do you really gotta go?" Futaba said as Ren sadly nodded and spoke up.

"That's right. I have people waiting for me back home. At least you have Kusa here still, so that's something, right?" Ren said as Futaba nodded. Yusuke spoke up with a smile.

"Well, good-bye, Ren. Make sure you eat well." Yusuke said as Haru spoke up.

"Yeah, what Yusuke-kun said. And you better be sure to come visit from time to time!" Haru said as Makoto spoke up.

"No kidding! If you don't, we'll come find you over there! Don't think we won't!" Makoto said as Ryuji spoke up.

"Well, it's been real, man! Good luck at your hometown, RenRen!" Ryuji said as Futaba spoke up.

"Bye, big bro! Come back soon!" Futaba said as the group drove off while the black car from before gave chase. Once both the group and the black car were out of sight, Ren started heading to the train platform, right as his bag started violently shaking a bit. As it happened, one of the shakes happened to nudge a passing red-head, who smiled as she looked up and recognized Ren, catching his attention as she spoke up.

"Oh? Is that you, Ren? Looks like I got to see you off after all!" Sumire said as Ren turned to face his girlfriend and smiled as he spoke up.

"So you did. I'm sorry that I don't have time to do more than wish you good-bye one last time. I'll try to be back as soon as I can. Stay strong for me until then, okay? I love you so much." Ren said as Sumire nodded and spoke up.

"I will, Ren. I'll always keep my head up and never look back. You taught me that in the time I've known you, you know. Also, I love you too, Ren. Always have, and always will. Now c'mere." Sumire said as she leaned in to kiss Ren passionately one last time before walking away as she spoke up once more.

"Good-bye, Ren. I love you, now and always!" Sumire said as she walked off, leaving a slightly sad Ren to get on the train, but not before his bag opened itself up and a familiar furry head popped out and spoke up.

"Gahhh! See? I told you I'd go back with you, Ren!" Morgana said as he popped up out of Ren's bag, scaring him slightly but making him smile as he patted Morgana on the head and spoke up one last time.

"Heh, I never doubted you would for a second, little bro. Let's go home, Morgana." Ren said as he got on to the train, immersing himself in reading back through the group chats he'd had over his time living in Yongen. As the train pulled away with him on it, he didn't see the group of businessmen passing by, including an individual in an eerily familiar cream-colored suit with black gloves that was often worn by a certain pancake-loving detective Ren knew. However, unlike Ren, Morgana saw the group pass by and blinked as he spoke up. *4*

"Wait, was that-? Nah, couldn't be, could it?" Morgana mused as Ren ignored the cat, focused on his phone. As the train pulled away from the station with the two of them onboard, all that could be heard was the sound of a song playing...

Your flag, your alibi
Can you hide behind
Claiming might is right?

Raise your fist to the sky
While below your boots
Common men die

Colors fly
Tell us who to love and who to hate
And by the by
Will the memories of our morals fade?

Staying true
To your own convictions in this haze
Is harder to do than say

So choose a color to live by
Your goal, your faith, your virtue
Give it all
Be the best 'cause nothing less will do
You can rule the world with colors flying high
You'll know that if you stay true

Green or blue
Red or white
You can't lose
With your colors flying high

What's your aesthetics, ethics?
It's not like mine
Not identical

We know we gotta balance
A common line
Or a hard fall

Colors rise
Tell us who to hate and to adore
And as you try
To sort out what you've been fighting for

Holding on
To the line you drew into the sand
Will show them all
Where you stand

So choose your colors true and bright
As hero, liege or sinner
Give it all
Be the best 'cause nothing less will do
If you must go down with colors flying high
You know you're still a winner

Pink or pale
Black as night
You can't fail
With your colors flying high

So choose the color you will fly
Fight on for your convictions
Give it all
Be the best 'cause nothing less will do
You can rule the world with colors flying high

Your genuine ignition
Green or blue
Red or white
You can't lose
With your colors flying high

And as the final notes of the song finished, all that you could see was Ren looking up at the window, seeing his reflection, blinking briefly as his reflection seemed to morph into that of Joker, making him take off his glasses and smile as he thought about all the times he spent as a Phantom Thief with the others. As Ren relaxed and slowly slid the cover down to close his window, he knew in his heart that though this was good-bye for now, in reality, it was just the start of a new beginning, not just for Ren, but for the collective whole of the Phantom Thieves...

END OF CHAPTER AND OF PERSONA 5: THE PHANTOM FILES

A/N: And just like that, here we are at the end of the story! I know I said before this was supposed to be a final arc, rather than a final chapter, but I clearly underestimated how swiftly the rest of the game would go after the end of Maruki's Palace. And yep, the entire group, excluding Ren and Morgana, went their separate ways for now. But as anyone who's played at least a few of the Persona games knows, that won't last forever.

Granted, the sequel to this will be a trickier undertaking, since Persona 5 Strikers, the sequel to Persona 5, is written as a sequel to 'vanilla' Persona 5, rather than Persona 5 Royal, something that still miffs many a Persona fan to this day, myself included.

However, do not worry! I will do my best when the time comes to make the Strikers adaptation as Royal-compatible as I can! I already have plans for how at least the first couple of Jails will play out! But I won't say anything more on that here, since I'm still fine-tuning the finer points even now.

Also, once this chapter goes up (which if you're reading this end-of-story A/N, odds are better than fair it's already up) I intend to take a bit of a break between this story and the sequel to both let me work on other stories, and to go back through and edit this story's chapters a bit. I've already gone through and edited up to chapter 14 so far (at least as of the day this chapter goes up). I plan to work on the others in the coming days, but it will take time since this was a VERY long story! So please have patience with me as I do so.

That being said, let me take this opportunity to profusely and whole-heartedly thank everyone who's read this far and supported this story as it played out, whether that support was in the form of a review, PMs with feedback, or even just following/favoriting this story and/or myself as a writer, as the support is not only greatly appreciated, but means a lot to me, since all that feedback allows me to continue to better myself as a fanfiction writer.

So thank you, everyone! And don't be shy about continuing to give feedback and/or support, as it's greatly appreciated! So, for the final time in this story, thank you all very much for all the support and feedback I've gotten on this story! Hearing from all of you who offered input and/or suggestions helped me a great deal in making this story what it is! So thank you all! And until the next story/the next chapter I post, sithlorde1988 out!

NOTES

*1* - I know it's not confirmed to be such, but given the fact that Royal and Strikers were developed at close to the same time, I feel like this line by Iwai, despite the slight adjustment I made to it, was potentially meant to be a very clear nod to a certain someone who gets introduced in Strikers (which was ironically developed at the same time as Royal supposedly), where he appears as one of that game's two new Phantom Thieves. If so, very cool nod, since the character in question is one of my personal favorites from that game. But I'll leave it at that for now, for the sake of spoiler prevention.

*2* - I literally only figured out while typing this chapter out that you could even get this cutscene with Shibusawa. Apparently, when saying your farewells, you can also get follow-up cutscenes with side characters from certain Confidant Links that expound a bit on that character's development.

The list, as far as I could tell after spending a couple of hours combing every area you can travel to with a fine-toothed comb to make sure I got every possible farewell/follow-up dialogue, is as follows: Shibusawa (Maruki), Takeishi and Nakoaka (Ryuji), Mika (Ann), Ikeda-senpai (Ryuji), Sick Girl (Takemi, not covered in the story), Eiko (Makoto, also not covered in the story), Kawanabe (Yusuke), Muhen (Akechi), Takakura (Haru), Matsushita (Yoshida), and Pompous Male Customer (Sojiro).

If you've played through Royal as well and can confirm that I missed any others, feel free to correct me in the reviews with whichever ones I missed. Otherwise, that's the list as far as I could tell.

*3* - Ironically, Maruki appears in the true ending as a cab driver, of all things. Yet, other than a brief two-second passing appearance/non-speaking implied appearance, Sumire and Akechi both don't really appear in said ending at all, which is ironic when you think about it given the fact that Maruki was the one whose heart was changed, yet he's not the one who paid the price for that heart change. As for why I had Kusa show up in the cab with Maruki, that was just a bit of plot convenience, as well as a way of subtly teasing that anyone can reconcile if they want it enough.

*4*- Morgana only notices what Ren does not because he's naturally observant. That, and Ren was distracted by his phone. Also, this scene is ONLY attainable if you got Akechi's Confidant link to rank 8 before 11/17, got Sumire's link to Rank 5 before 12/22, AND got Maruki to rank 9 by 11/17, as not only do those requirements help unlock the third semester, but if you do all this AND give the two recommended answers during Akechi's link ('But I'm your rival' during his rank 7 and 'I accept' during his rank 8), you'll get the true ending unlocked.

While I'm thinking of it, source credit for this information, along with a big time shout-out, go to Trasce over on GameFAQs for writing the guide I got the unlock information for the true ending from. So they own the guide I used to research the true ending.

Also, back on the topic of the true ending, once you reach a certain scene near the end of Shido's Palace, during one of the thinking bits with Ren, if you choose 'I want to keep our promise', that also helps with the unlock, as well as adds a bit of dialogue to the scene with Muhen at the end of the game about Ren finding Akechi's glove in his pocket and recalling that his rivalry with Akechi isn't over yet. So yeah, there's your fun fact for this chapter.

*5*- I know that technically speaking, this isn't a third tier evolution for Maruki, per se. However, I believe that the fact he evolves his Persona before the final battle and later is merged with it to some extent suggests that it could count as a 'bonus event' of sorts for him, especially with the part where he gets to have the extra battle where he and Ren slug it out to, as Maruki himself puts it, 'kill every last one of these lingering regrets'. Granted, in this story's case, I worked Kusa into that battle, but that's irrelevant in my opinion. Also, I count it as a rank 11, hence 'Rank MAX (11)' next to Maruki's name in the Confidant ranks. But I understand if you disagree with me on this, as we're all entitled to our own opinions.

FINAL CONFIDANT RANKS AS OF THE END OF PERSONA 5: THE PHANTOM FILES

FOOL (Fake Igor/Prison Master/Yaldabaoth) - Rank MAX (10)

MAGICIAN (Morgana/Mona) - Rank MAX (11)

PRIESTESS (Makoto/Queen) - Rank MAX (10)

EMPRESS (Haru/Noir) - Rank MAX (10)

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 (11)

HERMIT (Futaba/Taba/Oracle) - Rank MAX (11)

FORTUNE (Chihaya/Fortune Teller) - Rank 9

STRENGTH (Lavenza) - Rank MAX (10)

HANGED-MAN (Weapons Dealer/Iwai) - Rank MAX (10)

DEATH (Takemi/Back-Alley Doctor) - Rank MAX (10)

TEMPERANCE (Kawakami/Becky) - Rank MAX (10)

DEVIL (Ohya) - Rank 7.5

TOWER (Shinya/The King/Skilled Gamer) - Rank 8.5

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 (Sumire/Sumi/Violet) - Rank MAX (11)

COUNCILLOR (Maruki/Doc) - Rank MAX (11) *5*

WORLD (Kusa/Draconis) - Rank MAX (11)

CONFIDANTS SUCCESSFULLY MAXED OUT: FOOL, MAGICIAN, PRIESTESS, EMPRESS, EMPEROR, HIEROPHANT, LOVERS, CHARIOT, JUSTICE, HERMIT, STRENGTH, HANGED-MAN, DEATH, TEMPERANCE, STAR, MOON, SUN, JUDGEMENT, FAITH, COUNCILLOR, WORLD

CONFIDANTS THAT WERE UNABLE TO BE MAXED OUT: FORTUNE, DEVIL, TOWER