Senran Persona: Ninjas of Hearts

by UknownHero

Collab with JGResidentEvil and VividMind17. Fate can be an interesting thing within life. It can bring unexpected changes that no one can truly see. For two girls, those that were destined to be rivals between good and evil, changed under the masks of rebellion to forge their own true paths. Now get up and stand your ground because these sexy ninjas are gonna steal your heart!

72. Time Skip

Hey! UknownHero here and welcome to another chapter of Senran Persona!

First off, business. We decided to keep Royal as a separate story rather than stuff it into this. We were going have Sumi on the train the day after Kaneshiro's confession but hey, it was an idea that wasn't wise in the first place.

Second of all, Mass Effect: Legendary Edition released and uh...it's really fun! There are hiccups but there's nothing that would affect the main game, at least so far. Although, there was someone who gave it a 10/10 before they could finish the game. I mean, what sort of dumbass would do that?

No reviews needed to be answered this time so let's fast forward.

Load Game...Start!

---

Chapter 72: Time Skip

---

(Fast Forward)

"Still can't believe Skull didn't mention it was their birthday that day. We could've paid for entry at least..." Akira soon grumbled in annoyance. "Anyways, the next day, Yin and Yang decided to use-" He then started, however...

"Can you pick up the pace here?" Sae interrupted in an annoyed manner.

"Huh?" Akira got out with a raised eyebrow. He was just about to go into a bath memory. He really liked those moments.

"The police released their statement on Kaneshiro's arrest on July 9th. I am not willing to listen to four more days worth of useless information." Sae stated. Honestly, she would've spoken about this earlier but Akira would always put in some relevant information in-between his ramblings but now it was just nothing.

"Calm down, it's all important." Akira assured.

"I'm sure it is, but please get to more important events. Say, your smaller changes of heart. It's further confirmation of your story after all." Sae requested as she went through her files. God, how much time does she have again? Because it feels like she's been interrogating him for four-five years.

"Fine, let's speedrun the next few days." Akira sighed out as he rolled his eyes. Sue him if he likes giving out all the details. "So, on July 4th..." He soon began.

(Rewind)

---

(7/4, After School)

(Shujin Academy, Disciplinary Committee Board Room)

Homura was at her desk checking through the papers as she sighed. "Another afternoon of looking at the papers regarding troublemakers." She breathed out while stretching her arms above her head. "Maybe I'll hang out with Makoto-senpai tonight. I could really go for a beef bowl." She then thought to herself as she stood up from her desk and walked over to the door.

However at that moment when the door was open, Naomi was standing just outside. "Reporting for duty ma'am!" She responded with a salute.

"At ease." Homura replied as she saluted back.

"Yes ma'am!" Naomi responded as she nodded. "So how are things going with you?" She then asked.

"Well, I just finished reviewing my reports." Homura replied. "And you?" She then asked.

"I've been doing well. No major incidents sighted on my way here." Naomi informed "Just making sure that I arrived on time for our daily patrol around campus." She then explained.

"Good, I'm glad that the troubles around school are going down a bit." Homura responded with a nod.

"Still, that doesn't mean there are those other incidents like the one with Imai-san the other day." Naomi told her in a despondent tone.

"True." Homura admitted in agreement with a nod.

"However, that doesn't mean we should let that bring us down." Naomi stated. "There's still more that we can do to ensure the safety of the students and teachers of this school." She then declared.

Homura in turn smirked. "Now that's what I like to hear, Naomi." She declared in approval.

"I'm glad that you think so." Naomi nodded with a smile "So shall we start our patrol?" She then asked.

"Sure." Homura replied as they left the room.

---

(Classroom Building 2F, Hallway)

"Still Naomi, you're pretty passionate about giving respect to me with the salute and all." Homura admitted as the two walked the halls.

"It's something my parents taught me when I was growing up." Naomi explained "They've made sure that if I were to work under someone, I'd treat them with respect as they are of a higher authority." She then revealed.

"Your parents sound like good people...and in the JSDF." Homura admitted with a smile. "And way better than my own." She meanwhile thought to herself.

"They are, that's why I look up to them." Naomi replied as she smiled. "They've taught me how to respect people, but they've also made sure that I can defend myself since I live in the roughest part of town." She then added.

"Really? What do they do?" Homura soon asked in a curious manner.

"My parents are in the military. My dad teaches me CQC and my mom taught me how to use firearms." Naomi answered. "They wanted me to make sure I can protect myself whenever they're called out for duty." She then explained.

"So you're parents are in the military, that explains quite a bit." Homura stated with a nod.

"Of course. I plan to enlist after graduating." Naomi then revealed.

"I wish you luck on that endeavor." Homura replied. "Better than her going down the shinobi path like me, Sis and Yumi-senpai." She meanwhile thought.

"Thank you, Shinkukage-bucho. I really want to follow in their footsteps so that I can protect this country and its people." Naomi replied in a determined manner.

"Well, I guess you would need a lot of training to be strong enough to do so." Homura got out.

"That's true, which is why I know someone who's been training me to become strong enough to join the military." Naomi explained to her.

"That's good to know. You must live somewhere that really toughens you up." Homura got out.

"Oh believe me, you really don't know the half of it." Naomi stated. "The area I live in is known for frequent yakuza activity. So it's a lot rougher to live there with them roaming around the streets." She then informed.

Homura however blinked at that reveal. "Where...do you live exactly?" She hesitantly asked.

"Kamurocho." Naomi revealed to her.

"Kamurocho..." Homura quietly repeated in a serious tone as she blinked a couple of times. "...You live there of all places." She then stated.

"You've heard of it?" Naomi replied in a surprised tone.

"Yeah, it's kind of the local hellhole of Tokyo. Even after it's heavy gentrification." Homura admitted in an awkward tone. Even Hebijo had mentioned it once or twice as a recruitment area. "No offense." She quickly added.

"None taken. It's actually worse than what the rumors say." Naomi sighed out. "But it's still home to me either way. It also helps me toughen up." She then admitted.

"Really now?" Homura got out in a curious manner.

"Yeah. You pretty much have to be tough if you want to survive there." Naomi explained in a serious tone. "Mostly because a lot of punks can rob you if you don't put up a fight. So my parents made sure that I can handle myself whenever I go outside." She then revealed.

"Wow, that's honestly impressive." Homura admitted. "And a little worrying. Robbing teenagers is pretty low." She then added in disapproval.

"Well, it's not like people chose to be criminals most of the time. Still, it's just as bad as a lot of people say it is but it's home. So I can't really complain." Naomi stated. "It's where I was born and raised, so I'm gonna live with it." She soon declared with pride.

"Though...why are you at Shujin?" Homura soon asked in a curious manner. "The school isn't exactly military material." She then pointed out as they passed by one of her favourite pieces of art: A cartoon cat taking a dump on a caricature of Kamoshida.

"Ah, it's just that my parents want to move out of Kamurocho and hope I'll buy them a place some day before I enlist." Naomi answered. "Don't know what I'll do though...Part of the reason why I joined the council." She then confessed.

"You're just trying to find your path in life." Homura muttered to herself before chuckling. Almost the exact same situation she was in. "Well, I promise that as long as I'm here, I'll help you find what you want out of life." She soon declared.

"Really? I mean, you don't have to..." Naomi started and began to say, however...

"I insist." Homura interrupted.

"Hm...Alright. I hope you do." Naomi hummed before finally responding with a nod.

Upon hearing that, Homura only became more impressed by her committee member as she felt a bond forming with her.

I am thou, thou art I.

As to forge a new path in crimson flame,

The vow has been made.

With the secrets of the Hierophant by your side,

The forge for a new path will be formed.

Granting great power in return.

RANK UP! HIEROPHANT RANK 1!

Military Training: HP training is now available for Homura's Training!

"Hierophant..." Homura mentally noted with a nod.

"What's up, Shinkukage-buchou? Is there something on your mind?" Naomi asked in concern.

"Nah, I was just thinking." Homura replied as she glanced down the hallway.

"Oh, okay." Naomi responded with a nod as she did the same.

"Oh crap! It's Shinkukage!" A rowdy male voice got out.

"Looks like you've got your work cut out for you. Now everyone is starting to recognize you." Naomi got out.

"Shit! It's the Disciplinary Committee! Run!" Another defiant male got out in a panic.

Homura meanwhile was confused about that before she then took a whiff of the air and scowled in disgust. "Oh for the love of-! Smoking again!?" She questioned in annoyance.

"Shall we teach these delinquents what happens when they don't follow rules?" Naomi asked as she cracked her knuckles.

Homura in turn smirked in response. "Oh I knew making you a member of this committee was a good idea." She replied.

"It's mostly thanks to you for actually trying to make a difference here. I was really impressed with your determination to make this school right again." Naomi responded. "And I want to make sure that it doesn't stave off the right path by the time most of us graduate." She then added.

"Then let's go!" Homura soon suggested.

"Yes ma'am!" Naomi responded.

Soon, both girls dashed off after the troublemakers to fulfill their duties.

---

(Aoyama, Modeling Agency)

Meanwhile, Asuka and Ann had their own individual gigs for their agency at two different locations, so they headed out as soon as school ended for the day.

With the Vice Leader, she was instructed to come to the company building for her gig.

"Ah, hello Shirokage-san." Kokito greeted while adjusting his glasses. "You made it just in time." He then informed with a smile.

"Hai! I'm ready to go, Kokito-san." Asuka replied with a determined nod. "What am I doing again?" She then asked.

"...Ah, I forgot to tell you what the shoot was." Kokito mumbled to himself. "I'm sorry. I was too eager. I set you up for a swimsuit shoot today."

"S-Swimsuits?" Asuka meekly got out with a blush on her face.

"That's correct, the company wants us to promote these swimsuits for the summertime line-up." Kokito informed her. "I know it may be somewhat more revealing than the other times you modeled for us, but we still need to advertise them in order for the people to buy them." He then added.

"But I've never modeled in a swimsuit before..." Asuka informed, still with the blush on her face. "And these look way too revealing in these Kokito-san." She then admitted.

Kokito in response looked at the swimsuits and noticed that most of them were way too revealing. "Hmm...I believe that you're right Shirokage-san. These are not suited for the shoot, nonetheless a minor." He informed in a serious manner.

"Eh?" Asuka got out in confusion.

"We cannot allow our rising star to wear such swimsuits with no decency." Kokito soon informed as he looked towards some of the staff. "I request that these are to be taken back and replaced with ones that are more appropriate for Shirokage-san." He then requested.

"Of course Kokito-san." The staff member replied as he took the swimsuits.

Nodding to this, the manager then returned to the model. "Not to worry, Shirokage-san. They'll bring you swimsuits that are more appropriate for you." Kokito reassured.

This meanwhile caused Asuka to sigh in relief. "Thank you sir." She replied in a grateful manner.

"It was my pleasure." Kokito responded with a nod. "I should've asked if you were comfortable to do a shoot like this in the first place. I am sorry." He soon apologized with a bow.

"I honestly don't mind wearing swimsuits, I just won't want to go too far with them being too kinky and risque." Asuka sheepishly confessed.

"I understand. We'll take this slow and see how you can handle it." Kokito replied in a considerate manner.

"Hai!" Asuka replied with renewed determination.

"Attagirl. Now why don't you go and get ready?" Kokito suggested as he smiled at the girl's eagerness. "I'll have someone send the swimsuits to you once they've arrived." He then informed.

"Hai!" Asuka responded with a nod.

The staff member soon returned with a new set of swimsuits for the Vice Leader to wear for the shoot.

"Thank you." Kokito replied with a nod as he then looked at the girl. "Ok Shirokage-san, go and get changed into the first swimsuit that is marked for the shoot." He then instructed.

"Hai!" Asuka responded with a nod as she picks up the swimsuits she's going to wear and heads for the changing room.

A few moments later...

"Okay, I'm back." Asuka informed as she returned while wearing a black and red striped version of her combat swimsuit.

Kokito in response nodded to this as he then looked at the set. "Excellent, right on schedule." He replied.

"Thank you." Asuka replied as she bowed.

"Shirokage Asuka, we need you in 3." The photographer called out.

"Hai!" Asuka replied with a raised hand.

"Good luck Shirokage-san. Break a leg." Kokito encouraged.

"Yes sir!" Asuka replied with a cutesy wink and a salute as she then walked over the set.

That in turn made Kokito flinch a bit from seeing her cute wink and salute before regaining his composure and clearing his throat.

Asuka meanwhile giggled as she looked at the photographer. "Asuka Shirokage is ready to go!" She happily declared.

"Okay, then let's get started, hon!" The photographer responded in excitement and passion.

The photo shoot soon started as planned as Asuka posed in different positions and even held up a beach ball like she's playing it at the beach. She even posed on a lounge chair with an umbrella and sunglasses with a drink glass (It was just orange dyed milk) in her hand and even on a beach towel.

"That's it Asuka! Work it! The camera loves ya!" The photographer declared as he continued instructing the girl.

Asuka nodded as she then acted like she's putting sunscreen on her arms and even suntanning. The shoot went on for about an hour until the photographer was finally finished taking pictures.

"Ok Asuka excellent work!" The photographer praised with a thumbs up.

"Thank you sir." Asuka replied with a bow.

"Okay, go ahead and take a break." The photographer told her "We're gonna take some more pictures of you in a different swimsuit, so be ready by then." He then instructed.

"Yes sir." Asuka replied with a mock salute as she went over to a nearby table with some finger foods.

"Not a bad start Shirokage-san." Kokito praised "I can tell that you were definitely enjoying yourself while modeling in the swimsuit. I'm really impressed." He then added.

"Thank you sir." Asuka replied with a smile.

"Now we're gonna have you change into a different swimsuit, but it'll be the same as before." Kokito then informed. "So go ahead and change into a different swimsuit. We'll call you once we're ready for the next shot." He then instructed.

"Hai!" Asuka happily replied with determination as she made her way to the changing room, seeing a large assortment of both cute and sexy bikinis. "Ooooooh!" She got out in amazement.

Asuka soon began going through each of them to see which one would work for the next photo shoot. "There's so many to choose from, I'm not sure which ones to pick." She muttered to herself before seeing one in particular: green in color with red, light blue and black polka dots.

Asuka then walked over to the swimsuit and picked it up with a satisfied smile. "Yes, this is it. This one is perfect." She decided as she took off the one she had on already.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

"Hai?" Asuka got out.

"It's almost time for the next shot! You're up in five minutes!" A voice from the other side informed.

"Ok!' Asuka replied as she got the new swimsuit on, seeing herself in a mirror before posing with a cute wink. "Yosh! Nothing's gonna stop me now!" She told herself.

Once she was ready, Asuka exited the changing room and returned to her manager as he was waiting for her to start the next shoot.

"Ah Shirokage-san. Right on time." Kokito responded. "I trust that you're ready for the next shoot?" He then asked.

"Yup! All set!" Asuka replied as she playfully winked.

"Perfect. And I see you've picked one of the newer swimsuits that we're promoting." Kokito replied as he examined the girl's choice. "It suits you well." He then complimented.

"Thank you Kokito-san. I'm glad you think so." Asuka responded as she gratefully smiled. "Well, time to get to it again." She added as she strutted over to the set.

"Okay Asuka, darlin. Let's get this show on the road." The photographer told her. "You know what to do, right?" He then asked.

"Yup!" Asuka happily replied as she got started, doing a simple pose to start.

"That's it baby doll! Work it girl!" The photographer encouraged as he took the shots.

Asuka meanwhile smiled in a more seducing manner as she swapped poses.

"Oh now that's spicy! Keep it up!" The photographer encouraged.

To that, Asuka continued going as she continued showing off her body without any signs of nervousness.

Kokito meanwhile was impressed to see the brunette not showing any nervousness as she did before when they started and can see what she's really giving it her all.

"That's it Shiro-chan! The camera loves ya, Your fans love ya! Keep it up baby!" The photographer praised.

This continued on for about an hour as Asuka was doing different poses ranging from cute, to sassy and seductive as she seems to have more confidence in herself to be seen in the variety of the different swimsuits she wore throughout the shoot.

Eventually...

CLAP! CLAP!

"Ok people, we're finished." The head of the photoshoot called out as he clapped his hands to get their attention.

"Okay pack it up. We're done here." Kokito instructed.

"Hai!" Asuka replied with a raised hand as she went to the changing room to change back into her school uniform while strutting over to it.

"You were excellent out there Shirokage-san. You really nailed it this time." Kokito praised.

"Thank you Kokito-san, I was making sure to give it my all." Asuka replied as she went into the changing room, closing the door behind her while her manager waited outside.

"I can definitely see that. You didn't show any signs of nervousness as you did before." Kokito replied with a nod of agreement. "I can see why Takamaki-san had suggested this to you before." He then stated.

"Well, I aim to become a great model like Ann-chan!" Asuka replied with determination. "As well as a great shinobi." She meanwhile added in her head with the same determination.

"And I'm positive that you'll be just as great a model as Takamaki-san." Kokito replied in an encouraging manner. "It's a slow process, but both you girls are definitely going to be something special." He soon declared.

"Thank you sir!" Asuka replied as she looked at the time. "Wow! That late already?" She soon questioned in a whisper.

"Is something wrong Shirokage-san?" Kokito asked through the door.

"Oh no sir, I just noticed that it was getting late and I should be heading home for the day." Asuka replied as she got her uniform on.

"Ahh, of course. That makes sense seeing as you do have school tomorrow." Kokito responded with a nod.

Asuka in turn nodded to this. "Hai, so I'll need my pay now before I head home." She soon reminded.

"Not to worry, you'll receive your pay before you leave like always." Kokito assured.

"Thank you." Asuka replied as she exited the changing room.

"My pleasure Shirokage-san." Kokito responded with a smile.

Eventually, the Vice Leader and model was given her pay with a bonus for her hard work, 10,000 Yen total.

"I believe that should hold you for some time." Kokito informed.

"I agree." Asuka replied with a giggle as she pocketed her money, feeling her Courage and Diligence going up greatly as a result of the swimsuit session.

"I have to say, this was a great photoshoot you've done for us." Kokito soon admitted. "You've come a long way since you helped us with our last one since one of our model girls called in sick. I'm really thankful that Takamaki-san called you in." He then praised.

"I'm glad I was able to help you last time." Asuka replied with a smile as she got her school bag. "Well, I better get home. It was a good session today." She then added with a respect filled bow before leaving the room.

"That it was. We hope to see you again in the coming days." Kokito replied with a nod as he took his leave as well.

"Hai!" Asuka happily replied as she made it into the elevator before descending downward before exiting the building and heading back to her apartment for the night.

---

(7/4, Evening)

(Homura's Shinobi Kekkai)

"So, Akira finally requested for you to train me next." Makoto stated in a tone filled with anticipation while gripping her tekkos.

"Yep." Homura replied as she did her stretches. "And Leader paid extra this time so he's expecting a big boost this time. So we're sparring today and you can't say otherwise." She then explained.

"I...I actually did want to fight you one of these days. However, just to let you know Homura-san, I won't be holding back." Makoto soon confessed and informed, her voice filled with excitement.

"I...Definitely will though." Homura however pointed out. "Bruises to unexposed areas only. And yes, that includes the groin." She then informed.

Makoto blinked and gave her friend a look. "Why warn me about that?" She had to ask.

"Because getting kicked in the clitoris is just as bad as a kick to the balls." Homura informed with a wince. "Excuse me for my language, senpai. But combat amongst shinobi isn't exactly rife with honor. You have to take every advantage you can get." She soon apologized.

"Of course." Makoto replied with a nod of agreement while silently putting that info into the back of her mind. "Kaito Change!" She soon declared, equipping her Thief outfit while being engulfed in white flames.

FWOOSH!

"Oh, you want Personas..." Homura began with an evil smirk, getting ready to transform as well.

"Oh no, just switching attires for more of a resistance." Queen explained while getting into her stance.

"Ah. Guess I shouldn't wreck your real clothes." Homura muttered out, silently switching to her militaristic Shinobi Tenshin. "But it doesn't mean I won't tear through that. Say...first one down to underwear?" She soon suggested.

"H-Huh?" Makoto got out, a little thrown off by how casually the lose condition was stated. "Erm...I-I..." She soon got out with a blush.

"Hey, our outfits can get wrecked in the Metaverse too. And if you're naked, you're effectively dead." Homura reminded.

"I-I am aware of that." Makoto mumbled out.

"It might be good training for your composure too." Homura continued before rolling her neck and summoning her katanas. "Now come at me with the intent to kill, or I'll strip you down to nothing but your panties!"

"My, so forward Homura-san, not even the first date." Queen remarked in amusement

WHAM! CLANG!

Immediately, the two were locked in place, swords against tekkos. "Don't waste time talking when your fists should be flying!" Homura instructed. "Not bad, she knew to block my first strike." She mentally admitted in an impressed manner.

"Akira-kun talks a lot." Queen pointed out as she tried to overpower the other girl.

"At least he's fighting while doing so." Homura responded. "Besides, you should realise me talking to you is just a trap." She then informed in a dead serious tone.

"Huh?" Queen gasped before looking behind her to see Wolverine charging at her with ignited claws. "Shit." She soon swore before headbutting her opponent...only to instantly regret it. "Ow..." She winced out.

"Can't hold back a skull made of steel." Homura stated as she watched the girl rub her sore forehead. "Smart attempt though. If you were stronger, I would've gotten stabbed by my own Persona." She then admitted and explained as her other self returned to her.

"I would've gotten hurt too. I'm not that fast." Queen groaned.

"Yet." Homura however added.

"Also, I thought we weren't using Personas." Queen soon complained.

"You never said no." Homura pointed out with a playful smile on her face. "But fine. No Personas. Just physical skill." She then stated.

"Good." Queen replied with a smile...before the breaking out of the clash and leap onto Johanna. "VARJA BLAST!" She soon commanded.

"!" Immediately, Homura was blasted away, but managed to right herself to land on her feet. "Clever girl, already adapting! Probably should've clarified I meant human skills though." She then praised and remarked before charging at the advisor with her Persona at her side. "Wolverine! Gokentou!" She soon commanded.

"Don't give her a chance, Johanna!" Queen roared as she revved her Persona's engine. "FULL THROTTLE!" She then roared.

"THINK OF A DIFFERENT BATTLE CRY!" Homura shouted out.

The two girls charged head-on...that is, until Homura slid under the motorcycle while Queen leapt off it.

CRASH!

Crashing their Personas together, they simultaneously grimaced in pain before turning to face each other with fierce looks on their faces.

CLANG! WHAM! CLANG! WHAM! RIP! RIP!

Resulting in the two going through a dance of clashes, dodges and parries.

"This is..." Homura soon thought, a smile growing on her face.

"A real fight..." Queen thought, excitement coursing through her body as she couldn't stop smiling. She never felt like this before. "More..." She then began to think.

"More...!" Homura thought as well.

"MORE!" They both cried out.

SLASH! WHAM! RIIIPPP!

Suddenly, they both realised they had sliced through each other's sleeves.

Without a hint of hesitation, Queen tore off her friend's sleeve before flipping over her, using the sleeve to choke her opponent before throwing her over her shoulder. "ORYAH!" She soon roared.

CRASH!

"Urgh...I actually felt that..." Homura groaned as she picked herself up.

"I didn't hurt you too bad?" Queen questioned in a taunting manner.

"Hmm...Nope." Homura got out, pulling on the Advisor's scarf, unravelling it from her neck before hastily wrapping her head in it, blinding her.

"MMPH!?" Queen grunted out as she struggled to break free, however...

RIP!

Homura looked up to see the damage she had done. "You really like blue, huh?" She soon pointed out. "And pandas..." She then added.

Queen managed to rip the scarf off her face, looking down to see that the tan skinned girl had torn off the portion of her bodysuit to reveal one of her right bra cups. "Maybe I shouldn't have worn the Bachimaru set today..." She mumbled out.

"Why not? It's cute." Homura however giggled in amusement.

That immediately caused Queen to blush scarlet. "Y-You're distracting me! ORA!" She accused and roared, throwing a punch instantly.

Homura swiftly dodged before going behind her opponent, locking the Advisor's arms behind her back, and flipped backwards, slamming her head on the ground.

"That was easy." Homura breathed out as she released the suplex.

Queen groaned and whined in pain for several seconds before picking herself up. "Why would shinobi learn wrestling moves!?" She questioned in disbelief.

"Hey, you can paralyse someone if you perform it right. Eer, wrong." Homura countered and corrected before realizing something. "Wait, are you into wrestling?" She then asked in a curious manner.

"My favorite is Mask de Smith." Queen simply replied before tackling the girl down.

"Huh!?" Homura got out in confusion to both the response and the action before...

RIP!

"Hah!" Queen called out, ripping through the other girl's top and skirt. "...Green flames?" She got out in confusion. Red was more her friend's colors.

"It...All my other bras are in the wash!" Homura explained in a panic. She had also avoided mentioning the fact that she didn't ask for permission first.

"O-Oh..." Queen awkwardly responded. "W-Well, you two are like sisters in all but blood." She then added.

"I am aware." Homura simply replied. "By the way, look down Bear Queen." She then advised.

"Huh?" Queen got out before looking down to see the bottom half of her bodysuit was gone save for her heeled boots, revealing her panda bear panties. "How did you- UPPERCUT!" She soon yelped with a blush as she suddenly threw her body backwards to dodge the surprise attack.

"Fell for the trick, but dodged the attack." Homura muttered out. "You have to do better than that, senpai! You're barely doing better than a beginner!" She then called out.

"I am one. That's why I'm here." The advisor reminded.

Homura blinked in response. "Oh. Right." She mumbled under her breath.

"But I don't want you going easy on me." Queen however stated. "I want this now." She then requested in anticipation.

"If I don't go easy on you, I will kill you." Homura reminded before letting out a breath. "But okay then, but don't complain to me about the fractures." She then warned.

When Queen blinked, the tan skinned girl was already in her face with her fist ready to break her skull.

Queen instantly fell on her back, making the tan skinned girl miss by a hair and skid across the ground behind her.

RIP!

"Ow...road burn..." Homura got out as the pain coursed through her body. "Dammit, threw all my weight into that punch. I am getting rusty..." She then grumbled.

"But that's why you're here too." Queen soon pointed out.

Homura in response paused for a moment as she thought about it before smirking. "Yeah." She replied. "It's like having a new punching bag every session!" She then added.

"Except this punching bag is punching back." Queen countered, unaware of her own smirk across her face.

"Not after I break your arms!" Homura declared before rushing the girl down.

"Not before I break your legs too!" Queen countered, also rushing in. "I wanna fight her..." She unconsciously thought to herself.

The tan skinned girl threw away her weapons and the two went at it with fists only.

"Yes..." Homura soon thought, urges rising within her.

"Yes..." Queen also thought, the urge to fight growing even more.

"YES!" Both girls soon thought in excited unison. "THIS IS BLISS!" They mentally exclaimed, swirls in their eyes as they kept going at one another with no sign of backing down with grins on their faces. Not that they wanted to begin with.

With one last punch to each other's faces, they forced each other away, digging their heels into the ground to stop their momentum.

"Going too hard...Focus..." Queen breathed out. "Getting too hot...calm down..." She then instructed herself.

"Not going at it hard enough...go faster...burn brighter..." Homura thought as she clenched her fists.

"I. Won't. Lose!" They both declared as they charged head-on once again.

"Hah!" Queen called out as she went for an uppercut, only for Homura to block it with her elbow and headbutt her. "Aaahhhh...!" She soon squeaked before...

WHAM!

Queen was punched straight in the heart and sent flying backwards. It took her several seconds to remember how to breathe before she picked herself back up.

"You should probably give up now, senpai." Homura advised in concern.

"Not...in a million years!" Queen declared as she charged once again.

Homura couldn't help but think about how they kept forgetting not to charge in without a plan as she held up her arm to clothesline the girl...

That is, until Queen swiftly pushed her arm away from her before backhanding her in the neck, spinning her around to face her.

Without a moment's hesitation, Queen delivered a liver blow before spinning around to kick the tan skinned girl in the side of the head. "This is the end!" The advisor declared as she crouched down and charged all her energy into her right fist. "Comin' at ya...FULL THROTTLE!" She roared, her eyes glowing red.

WHAM! KABOOM! RIIIIIP!

Homura was sent high into the air as some more of her clothes were ripped, but wasn't given a chance to right herself as the advisor jumped up and...

WHAM!

...Sent her back down with a nuclear empowered kick.

"Done and done!" Queen declared with a proud smile on her face.

And then the pain in her fingers set in. It almost felt like she broke them with that uppercut...and probably did. "A-Ahh...!" Queen squeaked. She definitely needed to get stronger...and get a doctor.

She then let out another one when she saw the tan skinned girl get back up, no worse for wear.

"Nice trick, senpai. Where did you get that?" Homura had to ask as the advisor stumbled back. The shinobi didn't even seem tired. "And remember the lose condition: Down to underwear only. I still have clothes left." She then reminded as she regained her katanas.

A sense of dread went over the advisor. She had forgotten that in her efforts to beat her opponent into yielding.

"And now...I'll show you a real finisher..." Homura soon stated as crimson flames flared around her.

Despite the fear and pain she was feeling, Queen raised her fists. "I won't go down that easily." She struggled out.

"I know you won't." The tan skinned girl replied.

And then she hit Queen straight between the eyes.

And she pummelled her without remorse.

With every blow, her bones creaked and her muscles grew more tender. If it was anywhere else, without her Persona, she wouldn't even be conscious by this point.

And once she took one heavy blow to the liver, she knew that she needed to schedule training sessions...for everyone.

"That's game!" Homura declared before finishing off her opponent with a burning uppercut.

RRRRIIIIIPPPP! THUD!

Queen went straight in the air...before landing back down in a boneless heap as the last of her bodysuit burned away.

"...Just remembered not to hit you in the revealed parts..." Homura mumbled to herself.

"Gah..." Queen groaned as she tried to at least sit up but collapsed flat on the ground. She was in no condition to fight anyways. She was down to her mask and her Buchimaru underwear, and even then her underwear was torn in places barely giving her any dignity. "I think...I think I'll take the loss...ow..." She panted and winced out.

Homura in response awkwardly rubbed the back of her head after calming down. "Sorry, senpai." She soon apologized. "Went a little too hard on you. But you were as amazing as expected." She then praised with a smile while offering a Sewing Kit.

"Well as expected of a shinobi, I didn't stand too much of a chance..." Queen breathed out as her Thieves Attire reformed with the sound of a sewing machine filling the air. "But I think I learned a thing or two back there." She soon informed while using a Medirama on herself. "You're just as amazing as I expected too." She then confessed in admiration.

"I'm glad." Homura replied. "But Joker paid for two rounds..." She then revealed.

"...Eep." Queen squeaked...but had a smirk of anticipation on her face. She was just having fun now.

Makoto's Strength increased greatly!

Makoto's Magic increased a bit!

Huh, not a bad boost.

"Don't worry Senpai, I'll make a shinobi out of you yet." Homura declared with a smirk.

"Thanks..." Queen replied as she rolled her shoulder, a shiver running down her spine to the idea. "I think I'm gonna go home and lay in the tub for a while after this though..." She then admitted.

"I gotta come to your place sometime." Homura soon got out. "Last time...wasn't on the best of terms..." She then remembered in an uncomfortable tone.

"You really should." Queen responded in agreement. "Now, are we ready for round two?" She then asked in anticipation.

"Already ready, senpai." Homura replied as she readied herself. "Homura, strive to change within the shadows!' She soon announced.

The Advisor then got into her aikido stance once more. "Queen, unleashing the fist of justice from the shadows!" She then announced.

"Oooh, nice announcement." Homura praised in an impressed manner.

And with that, the two charged in at one another with their weapons out and battle happy smirks on their faces. "I'M LOVING THIS!" They both thought the same thing with excitement as the swirls returned to their eyes.

CLANG! WHAM!

---

(Fast Forward)

"It's getting rather creepy that you know so much about your friend's modelling career...as well as knowing what kind of training my sister went through..." Sae remarked as she narrowed her eyes while denying the idea of how she acted. She found it very hard to believe her sister was actually like that in combat.

"Like I said earlier, they're very open. And I'm always informed about the results of training." Akira simply replied while sweating nervously. Queen was already a force not to be reckoned with, but Yang made her outright lethal...and she still wasn't the scariest member of the Phantom Thieves. "Anyways, then on the 5th..." He continued.

(Rewind)

---

(7/5, After School)

(Classroom Building 1F)

Homura was out doing her routine patrol around campus to make sure that everything was going like clockwork. "Another day, another afternoon of looking for those breaking the rule." She thought to herself with a smirk. Honestly, it felt good doing what she was doing.

As she was walking down the stairs, she noticed one of her members walking down the hall and rounding the corner. She knew that way led straight to the gym. "That's...Ryoga." Homura thought to herself with a raised eyebrow.

She decided to see why he's heading there and headed down the same way as him.

---

(Gymnasium)

Homura reached the gym when she saw her committee member standing just outside of the entrance. "Now what's he up to?" She wondered in her head.

She noticed him letting out a big sigh and ran his fingers through his hair as he seemed almost disappointed in something. "Hm?" Homura hummed out in a curious manner. "Well, better see what he's doing." She then decided in a mutter as she approached him. "Good afternoon ...Shujin-san." She politely greeted, albeit a bit awkwardly.

"Ahh!" Ryoga yelped and jumped in surprise before turning around to see her. "Oh, it's just you, Shinkukage-san. I thought that you were someone else." He then got out in a sheepish manner.

Homura however giggled in response. "Nope, just me." She replied in amusement. "So, what are you doing here in the gym?" She soon asked, getting straight to the point.

"Nothing seems to get past you, I suppose." Ryoga got out in response. "I've been seeing how it's been doing since Kamoshida was arrested for his crimes months ago." He revealed.

"Since there hasn't been a physical education class since the incident?" Homura guessed as she looked around. The other students were going to get out of shape like the principal if they didn't get a new teacher soon.

"Yeah, it's really not looking good for everyone if this keeps up." Ryoga replied with a nod with a sigh. "Plus, it doesn't really help the image of the school when one of its teachers was branded a criminal." He then added.

"Plus the idiot of a principal not helping whatsoever..." Homura grumbled out in annoyance.

"No, he is not..." Ryoga sighed out in agreement. "I honestly don't know how or why he was hired if all he's doing is running this school to the ground with all these supposed budget cuts shit he's been spewing out." He then added in annoyance.

"I am in agreement with you on that." Homura replied with a smirk. "He'll get what's coming to him though." She then added in a hopeful tone.

"I sure hope so. I really don't want to see this school fall because of him" Ryoga prayed.

"But until then, he's just gonna keep ruining his own rep and making others hate him." Homura soon stated. "Just like me and Makoto-senpai." She then added.

"Too late for that. I already hated him from the first day I enrolled here." Ryoga however revealed. "I knew that he was just some fat bastard who's more than willing to turn the other cheek and ignore them like nothing happened." He added in an annoyed tone.

Homura in turn giggled in response. "Wow, and here I thought I'd be the one who secretly insulted him." She jokingly replied.

"Oh, believe me, I've been secretly insulting him for over a year." Ryoga joked with a smile. "And seeing you and Nijima-senpai actually putting him in his place, I really didn't think that anyone would for a long time." He then confessed in a grateful tone.

"Well it took Makoto-senpai a bit longer, but some encouragement from me helped out...and going to the gym where she accidentally destroys the equipment helps with venting." Homura revealed.

"Yikes. Remind me to never get on her bad side." Ryoga winced.

"Cause she always seemed like the reserved type?" Homura guessed, only to smirk in amusement at seeing her committee member nod in response. "Let's just say Makoto-senpai is much more of a badass than anyone realizes. As expected of my best friend though." She then advised before crossing her arms over her chest and nodded in approval. "Not to mention she looks good in her Phantom Thieves attire." She then added in her head.

"Wow. I'm really glad that you two are actually making a difference here." Ryoga got out as he smiled with gratitude "But to be honest with you, I didn't really think that Niijima-senpai wouldn't help when she became Student Council President. I just thought that she was doing what the principal told her to do." He soon revealed in a guilty manner.

"Well let's just say like everyone else, she was forced into following his orders." Homura responded. "But that's not gonna be the case anymore." She then revealed.

"Do you really think so? How can you be so sure that it won't?" Ryoga asked in concern.

"Hehe, give it time Shujin-san, Kobayakawa won't be able to order around Makoto-senpai for much longer." Homura vaguely reassured.

"If you say that it's possible, then I'll trust you. After all the changes you've made in the last few months, I know that you will." Ryoga got out as he smiled at her in gratitude.

"And more changes are gonna keep happening from here on out." Homura reassured with a smile, feeling good that someone felt grateful towards her.

"I'm so happy that someone is actually starting to make changes here and it's you, Shinkukage-san. I was really worried that this school wouldn't recover from everything that has happened, but I'm glad that it wasn't." Ryoga soon confessed in a grateful tone.

"Ah, it was nothing really, someone had to do something and now that's our job." Homura replied and reminded. "So let's make sure to do better than the principal at everything basically." She then added while giving a thumbs up and a smirk.

"Yeah, let's. You can count on me to follow you until that day comes." Ryoga replied in confidence as a new light within him brightened the way.

Homura's smile never left her face as she could feel a bond between her committee member.

I am thou, thou art I.

As to forge a new path in crimson flame,

The vow has been made.

With the secrets of the Devil by your side,

The forge for a new path will be formed.

Granting great power in return.

RANK UP! DEVIL RANK 1!

Respected and Feared: Akira and Homura occasionally receive items from students.

"Devil? Seriously?" Homura thought in a surprised manner.

"Is something wrong, Shinkukage-san? Are you alright?" Ryoga asked in concern.

Homura however shook her head in response. "Nope, nothing's wrong." She replied in reassurance. "Here, how about we patrol the school a bit before going home?" She soon offered.

"Sure. I'll join you on the patrol." Ryoga responded with a nod and a smile..."And thank you again for actually trying to make a difference for our school." He then got out.

"Ah it's nothing big, now let's go." Homura replied as the two headed out of the gym, walking around the school for a bit before going their separate ways for the afternoon.

---

(Shujin Academy, First Floor)

Soon enough, the Disciplinary Committee Head spotted Akira switching shoes at the shoe lockers. It seemed he spent quite a bit of time at Shujin today.

"You're here longer than usual." Homura remarked as she approached the Leader.

"Ah, I was hanging out with Ryuji. Morgana's exploring the town, probably bedding some cute kitties." Akira answered as he leaned against the shoe lockers. "He's almost at athlete level, you know?" He then revealed.

"Guess that bum leg isn't so bum anymore." Homura got out with a smile. "Everyone's healing pretty nicely." She then added as she went to her locker.

"Yeah. The road's still long but at least we're going down it." Akira breathed out. "So, when are we going after your little assassin?" He soon asked in a low voice.

"Don't know. I still don't have a lead on her. Besides, you need more training." Homura stated. "And it will cost 20,000 yen from now on. And that includes training the others." She then informed.

Akira soon began to sweat as he suddenly felt his wallet get lighter- wait a minute. "Hey!" He soon called out, grabbing a student's arm he could reach into his pocket.

"Oh shit, you're the transfer student!" The idiot muttered out as Akira pushed him away.

"I have a name." The Leader grumbled as the tan skinned girl stepped forward.

"Ahem. Hello, head of the Disciplinary Committee here." Homura coughed in a flat manner before introducing yourself. "What. In the world. Were you trying to pull?" She then questioned in a serious tone.

"Oh stay in the kitchen bitch. It's between us men." The pickpocket spat out, a few flecks of saliva landing on the Committee Head's face.

Homura's eye twitched in response, however...

"You don't talk to her that way." Akira bluntly ordered while narrowing his eyes.

"Tch, don't give a shit." The pickpocket grumbled.

"Well, you will once I report you to staff." Homura stated, this close to foregoing all that and simply removing his teeth via her fists.

"Pfft! If you reported to the teachers they would assume I'm the victim!" The pickpocket then got out in a cocky manner. "No one trusts the criminal!" He soon declared.

"Ahem." Homura coughed in a flatter manner. "I may need to reintroduce myself. Head of the Disciplinary Committee? Friend to the Student Council President? Unfortunately close to the principal?" She then reminded, though whispered that last bit.

"You know what, let the poor guy go." Akira however suggested before glaring at the boy. "I'm always on the edge of expulsion anyways and one foot in juvie. So it won't matter if I send this guy into the hospital beforehand." He then stated as he cracked his knuckles.

"W-What?" The pickpocketing student choked out.

"It's about time I earned my assault record legitimately." Akira soon added.

"I might be willing to join you, Akira..." Homura then growled as she cracked her knuckles as well.

The pickpocket immediately paled in response. "Okay! Okay! I won't do anything!" He exclaimed in a panic.

"Tut tut tut. Not good enough..." Homura soon started.

"I-I...um...shit, fine! Here!" The pickpocket then got out before taking something out.

"I don't need your money-" Akira started, before seeing what the student was offering. "...That's a lot..." He then admitted.

"Is all that stolen from previous victims?" Homura questioned as she frowned.

"It's all mine, I'm loaded! I have a part-time job and everything!" The pickpocket cried out, causing the two to give him deadpan looks. "I pickpocket for the thrill alright!?" He then confessed.

The two blinked at that. "...I didn't think I'd meet someone dumber than Shadows but we have come to this point huh." Homura thought with a sweatdrop.

"...I shall accept this offering." Akira suddenly responded in a formal tone. "Now leave my sight!" He then ordered, allowing the failed pickpocket to run away with thoroughly wet pants.

Meanwhile, a few students had seen this and began talking to each other about it.

"Eep! He's so scary...!"

"I mean the guy did try to pickpocket him first."

"Shit...you think if we give him shit, he won't do anything to us?"

"It wouldn't hurt to try..."

"Really, Joker?" Homura deadpanned in a whisper.

"What? A thief always takes every advantage they can get." Akira replied with a shrug.

"God, you are such a dork." Homura sighed while shaking her head.

"Pfft! Being a dork is cool these days." Akira scoffed with a smirk. "And my flair for the theatrics enhance that." He then stated.

"No wonder you took to being a thief like a fish to water." Homura quietly giggled before opening her shoe locker to see a fresh made batch of cookies in it along with a few letters. "Huh?" She got out in confusion.

"To Shinkukage. Thanks for making the school better with the committee. Keep up the good work. From, the Cooking Club." Akira read out the letter that was placed in the tan skinned girl's shoes. "You're getting popular." He then stated in an impressed tone.

"This...is definitely better than the start of the year." Homura quietly admitted with a smile. "All these letters...they're all praise right?' She then asked in confirmation.

"Nope. Some of them are love letters." Akira revealed. "Huh, you're starting to get them. Asuka's been getting them since the first week." He then added.

"Sis gets love letters!?" Homura exclaimed. "Wait, why am I finding out about it now!?" She then questioned.

"Because you would hunt down every single bastard and hurt them badly." Akira bluntly stated.

"...Touché." Homura soon responded. She'll need to talk to her roommate soon about it.

"So, gonna respond to the love letters?" Akira then asked.

"No." Homura responded as she shook her head. "I'd rather know the person than first meet them...in a dark alley in Shinjuku at midnight." She then stated before reading one and then secretly burning it.

"Hey, these cookies are warm." Akira got out, having taken one and was about to eat one, only for the tan skinned girl to snatch it out of his hand.

"Akira! These are mine!" Homura exclaimed as she took the bag and tried one of the cookies. "Mmm~ I think I just fell in love." She got out in delight.

"Hehe, you're becoming a sweets lover huh?" Akira chuckled out.

"I have been missing out." Homura confessed. "I mean, meat will always have a special place in my heart but god, no wonder Ann eats sugar all the time." She then added.

"Until recently." Akira added. "She's actually taking her diet seriously. Didn't think she had the strength." He then revealed.

"Your first mistake was underestimating her." Homura countered as she ate another cookie. "Man, I gotta share these with Sis when I get home." She then added as she placed the rest of the bag of cookies in her bag after trying it up.

At that moment, two Shujin first years approached them

"Hey senpai, you like our gift?" One of the two first years asked in a somewhat anxious tone.

"...I shall accept these offerings." Homura responded in a well-mannered tone. "Now please go on your way and have yourself a good day my fellow students. And thank you very much for the cookies." She then advised and added with a gentle smile.

SHINE!

Soon anyone within range could swore that they saw an angelic light coming from the Disciplinary Head.

"How is she doing that?" Akira thought in confusion with a sweatdrop.

"This is so worth leaving the volleyball team for the Cooking Club." The cooking club member got out.

"She's so cool...!" The other first year squealed before they both dashed out of the school.

"...So about my flair for the theatrics..." Akira started.

"Shut. It. Joker." Homura deadpanned. "By the way, anyone you want me to train?" She soon asked. "Please be Makoto-senpai..." She soon repeated in her head as she crossed her fingers.

"...Asuka's Luck could be maximised...but then again..." Akira hesitantly responded.

"Even better!" Homura thought in excitement. "Already on it, Akira! Give me my money!" She replied and demanded.

"I haven't-" Akira began, only to see the eager look the tan skinned girl had...as well as the unspoken threat of denying her more time with her sister-like roommate. "20,000 yen all in cash." He soon relented he gave her the money the pickpocket had given him. "Such a big price jump..." He then grumbled.

"Everyone's getting stronger. They need better quality training." Homura simply stated and explained.

"Still want to know what you did to Makoto yesterday." Akira reminded while narrowing his eyes.

"I only caused a slight limp. And I'm pretty sure I temporarily made one of her boobs concave but it popped back out." Homura casually replied.

"She looks like she's got into a fight with a bull while wearing Ann's catsuit. And yet she looked as though she wanted to fight you again." Akira countered.

"What gave you that idea?" Homura got out with a raised eyebrow.

"When she told me she wanted to fight you again." Akira deadpanned. "It...It's really scary how determined she was." He awkwardly added.

"Hehehe...I bet there's no one on Earth who will ever match Makoto-senpai's enthusiasm in training." Homura stated with a proud smile, looking forward to the rematch. "I bet she's even preparing for our next training session..." She then added.

---

(Library)

Makoto meanwhile was...attempting to study, though her leg was bouncing in anticipation, making her slightly unfocused with a grin on her face.

"I can throw a right hook when Homura-san kicks, but she'll counter by spinning, but if I can just do this..." Makoto mumbled to herself as she flipped through a model gun magazine she had bought yesterday.

She was not going to lose next time.

Both in the Metaverse and reality.

Meanwhile, her council members shivered in fear as they watched Makoto from behind a bookcase.

The sweet and innocent Student Council President had been corrupted by the delinquents and outcasts of Shujin.

Who else would fall into their hands?

---

(?)

Meanwhile, in some other random warehouse, a tied up Haru sneezed. "That was too early." She idly thought.

"That's the signal! Take 'em out!" Katsuragi called out as she and Ikaruga jumped out of their hiding spots and took down the kidnappers in rapid succession.

"Oh god, why do we keep taking this little girl!?" One of the kidnappers complained. "We spend more on hospital bills than shit we want. Like girls and sake." He then ranted.

"U-Uh..." His friend began, however the idiot kept complaining.

"I mean, we should just go legit and not do this shit! My parents want me to inherit their tofu shop and goddamn that sounds really tempting now!" The kidnapper then continued ranting.

"D-Dude?" His friend soon stammered out.

"What?" The kidnapper responded in annoyance.

"She's right behind you." His friend informed with a pale face.

The dumb goon blinked before turning around. "Huh? What do you- OH MY TOFU GOD!" He started before screaming in a panic.

SMASH!

"Hm, I wonder how his tofu is?" Haru innocently asked in a curious manner as she tossed away the broken remains of the chair. "And please stop tying me to chairs. I would like to be tied to a pole next time, or some sort of pipe. It's getting quite tiring." She then added.

"Are you seriously requesting that?" Ikaruga sighed out.

"It's not a request. It's criticism, Ika-chan." Haru corrected.

"How do you keep getting in these situations Haru!?" Katsuragi complained while kicking a poor kidnapper in the groin.

"Sorry...A lot of people have grudges against my father..." Haru apologized and revealed in a saddened tone.

"If that's true, then get your father to upgrade your security detail." Ikaruga soon suggested before feeling one of the kidnappers weakly grab her leg. She gave them a harsh kick to the head in response.

"But...You are my security detail." Haru innocently reminded.

After knocking out the last guy, Katsuragi let out a groan in frustration. "I don't...I..." The busty blonde began before sighing in defeat. "Can I kick your father?" She suddenly asked.

"If you do, he'll pull his funding from Hanzō and the Good Shinobi Faction." Ikaruga warned. "He is a client, and a powerful one at that. Don't forget that." She then reminded.

"But would it kill him to care about his daughter for once!?" Katsuragi soon asked in frustration.

There was an uncomfortable silence.

"...Katsuragi-san, make sure the area is clear for the limo." Ikaruga eventually ordered in a serious tone.

"I..." Katsuragi started, feeling guilty and uncomfortable as a result.

"It's...It's fine, Katsu-chan..." Haru mumbled out. "Go ahead. I want to be home soon so I can work on my school assignments." She then responded and requested.

"Still, I...I...Sure." Katsuragi began before sighed in defeat and headed out to do as ordered.

Ikaruga meanwhile sighed to that as she looked at the auburn haired girl. "I apologize for Katsuragi-san snapping like that..." She then stated.

Haru remained silent before nodding and leaving the area.

"Wait, Katsuragi-san hasn't-" Ikaruga began stopping herself and sighing. She was well-aware of the heiress' abilities so there was no point. "Asuka-san, I really hope your mission is going well..." She then mumbled to herself before leaving the area as well.

---

(Fast Forward)

"Gotta admit, suddenly getting free stuff from other students was surprising to say the least." Akira admitted. "We got so much free crap, all in an attempt to get me off their back. Those rumors actually helped me for once." He then added.

"Are you just glossing over the fact that your friend seems to get kidnapped almost on a daily basis? And that the police were never informed of any of them?" Sae deadpanned as she crossed her arms under her breasts.

"Noir didn't make a big fuss about it." Akira replied with a shrug. "It eventually stopped too." He then added.

"And I assume it was after..." Sae began with a raised eyebrow.

"..." Akira looked away, unable to look the prosecutor in the eye.

"...No, not now. We're not there yet. Please continue." Sae soon ordered.

"Thanks." Akira got out in a quiet tone. "Then some crazy stuff happened on the 6th." He soon started.

(Rewind)

---

(7/6, After School)

(Shujin Academy, Disciplinary Committee Board Room)

"All finished." Homura breathed out as she stacked her paperwork nice and neat.

After a hard and productive day in keeping the school safe, Homura had decided to clean up the committee board room to make sure it was nice and tidy for herself and her members.

"I really should've done something like this before." Homura mentally admitted as she looked around. Then again, she was focusing on other things as well.

Last night's training with her roommate was awesome and the bath afterwards was just as excellent.

As she leaned back into her chair, she heard a knock at the door of the committee meeting room. "Come in." Homura politely ordered as she corrected her posture.

The door slides open as Daigo walks into the room. "Hey, Shinkukage-bucho. I thought that you'd be here." He greeted as he closed the door behind him.

"Ah, Madoka-san." Homura responded with a smile. "How was your patrol? Anything to report?" She then asked.

"Well, there was a small fight between two second years and I had to break it up." Daigo revealed. "Fortunately, it was mostly just an argument about which anime was the best, so it wasn't a big problem." He then explained.

"Well, at least it didn't resort to physical violence." Homura replied as she nodded in approval.

"Yeah, same here." Daigo responded as he nodded in agreement. "I just basically told them that we can all agree to disagree and that was the end of it." He then added.

"Good work." Homura praised with a smile.

"Thanks." Daigo responded with a bow.

Homura then stretched her arms out over her head as she relaxed herself. "My committee is really making progress." She then got out in a satisfied manner.

"It sure is. A lot has changed since you started it and for the better." Daigo replied in agreement as he sat down in the chair on the opposite side of the table. "Not only we were able to keep the students safe, but there's also some positive changes to the school itself." He then added.

"More so then the principal?" Homura soon asked in a curious manner.

"Oh, by a long shot." Daigo answered without any hesitation. "Honestly, I'm just stunned as to how he's even the principal of the school in the first place. A lot of the time, it's been just him making himself look good while the school itself just suffers from his actions." He then stated as he crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair.

That in turn caused Homura to sigh in relief. "Well at least I'm not the only one who thinks that." She soon admitted.

"Yeah, same here. It's been literally hell with him always breathing down our necks." Daigo replied in agreement. "Even worse when Kamoshida was still a teacher and he just ignored all of the students' complaints about his abuse towards them." He muttered as he clutched his fist in anger.

"Well, the problem that was Kamoshida's gone now." Homura reminded as she noticed the angered expression on her committee member's face. "I guess you secretly disliked him a lot as well?" She then stated more than asked.

"More than you think..." Daigo got out as he lowered his head as his bangs covered his eyes.

Homura in response winced at this, though curiosity was budding from within her. "Would you...like to talk about it?" She then offered in a hesitant tone. "I personally hated Kamoshida for hurting my friends and trying to manipulate things so we were almost expelled after Suzui-san's suicide attempt...not my best moment when I yelled out my hatred towards him when he suddenly confessed what he did to the school." She soon confessed.

"Honestly, I couldn't agree more when you yelled at him when he confessed to his crimes." Daigo soon confessed. "You basically told him what I would've said if given the chance. But I would've also finally punched him in the face for all he's done if you and your friends hadn't spoken out." He then revealed.

"Really?" Homura asked as she blinked to hearing that. "I mean before starting the committee, I had a bit of a reputation..." She awkwardly reminded.

"Believe me, I knew of your reputation and frankly, I don't really agree with what the other students have said about you." Daigo responded and confessed.

That in turn caused Homura to smile softly in response. "Thank you Madoka-san." She replied.

"I was always told to never really believe what other people say about a person." Daigo soon revealed. "Though there is some truth to it, I'd rather get to know the person beforehand." He then added.

"Wise words." Homura replied in approval.

"You can thank a distant relative of mine for those words." Daigo revealed as he smiled.

"Oh?" Homura got out in a curious manner.

"She's a lot like you in a way, headstrong but fair." Daigo revealed to her.

"I see." Homura replied in a fascinated tone.

"Yeah, she made sure that I'd be able to get to know the person before I make any decisions to trust them or not." Daigo soon revealed. "And believe me, she can be a little rough but she means well. Especially when it comes to her son." He then added.

"I see." Homura responded with a nod.

"Yeah, so I take her words to heart." Daigo responded.

"Well that's good." Homura got out, glad she was getting along with her committee member a bit more and learning about them

SHATTER!

RANK UP! EMPEROR RANK 2!

"Hey, Homura." Daigo suddenly called out.

"Hm? What is it Madoka-san?" Homura responded.

"Maybe I can introduce you to her sometime." Daigo soon offered and suggested. "I'm sure that she'll like to get to know you and everything you've done for us and this school."

Homura in response smiled at the idea. "I would like that." She replied as she then noticed the time. "Ah, we better get going." She soon instructed.

"Off to another patrol?" Daigo guessed with a smile.

"That and then head home for the day." Homura replied as she got up from her seat. "Care to join me?" She soon offered.

"Sure, I'll join you." Daigo responded as he nodded before he then got up from his seat.

Smiling at that, Homura said nothing more as the two headed out to perform their afternoon duties before heading home for the day.

---

(Shibuya, Rooftop)

If anyone were to look up right now, not only would they get wet from the rain, they would also see a brunette with big boobs carrying a large bag and a thin young man, jumping between and running along buildings.

"Is this it?" Asuka asked as she set the boy down before transforming back from her Shinobi Tenshin to her school uniform.

"Yes! The skyline of Tokyo shall be my backdrop to my next masterpiece!" Yusuke passionately declared, framing the city with fingers with his umbrella over her shoulders. "Do you see why I asked you for this favor?" He then questioned.

"Because Homu-nee, Yumi-chan, Ann-chan and Makoto-chan wouldn't agree to this and you would get arrested if I didn't sneak you up here?" Asuka innocently guessed.

"Yes, but also the wind and rain today shall create an interesting effect. Now, place down my equipment...here." Yusuke instructed as he went to a specific spot.

Asuka, while always glad to help a friend, felt more like a pack mule than a friend in this instance as she set down the artist's easel and painting equipment. "Do you really want to paint me while it's raining like this?" She then asked in concern.

"There won't be another chance like this for quite a while so I wish to do so now." Yusuke replied.

"Okay..." Asuka responded with a nod before getting into a nice pose. She held her umbrella over her shoulder and looked out at the city, leaning over the edge a little with a serene and peaceful expression on her face as if she was modeling for a shoot. With her summer Shujin uniform on and the dark grey clouds ahead, it made for quite the somber image. "Is this good?" She then asked.

"More than good. Just stay like that." The young artist stated. After Yusuke made sure the scene looked right, he went straight to work.

Asuka let out a breath before looking down, seeing a multitude of colors down below on street level. "They're so...tiny..." She mumbled out.

"Hm?" Yusuke hummed out.

"Just...the people down there..." Asuka soon started. "It just reminded me of the first time I was up this high..." She then got out in a nostalgic tone.

"I feel as if you're about to tell a story." Yusuke stated in a curious tone.

"Yep. It was with Jii-chan." Asuka replied as she looked out into the distance. "Didn't think it would be too hard but...that first time I got so dizzy I almost fell off. Of course, Jii-chan saved me before I even went over the edge but...he told me that it was more than just training, it was to put our goals into perspective." She then confessed and explained the meaning of why they were there in the first place.

"Perspective?" Yusuke repeated in a curious manner.

Asuka in response nodded to that. "Yeah. He made me look down and said: Look at how high up we are. You can't see anyone's faces from up here right? No one can hear you from up here and no one can hear you down there. They don't even know that you're even up here." She then explained, repeating her grandfather's words exactly.

"A lot of people don't look up." Yusuke however pointed out.

The Vice Leader in response giggled to that. "Hehe, I said the same thing too and then he told me this: It makes for both a good hiding spot and the perfect view of outdoor hot springs." She soon revealed and recited. "But it also shows you that people can become nothing but mere ants to us. Easily crushed without a second thought. Keep that in mind. The power you have will be a responsibility when you're ready." She then concluded.

"Ready? For what exactly?" Yusuke questioned in a curious manner.

"Yōma." Asuka responded in a serious tone. "It was supposed to be a secret until I was older and more experienced but Jii-chan decided it was best to tell us about them."

"So you shinobi both fight each other and monsters?" Yusuke soon asked in a fascinated manner.

"That's the gist of it." Asuka replied in a simplified tone.

"And where do these monsters come from?" Yusuke then questioned.

"Jii-chan said that we don't know." Asuka responded as she shook her head. "They just show up when things get...bloody. That's why we keep fights in Shinobi Kekkai to limit damage and casualties." She then added.

"And given that this isn't public knowledge, even amongst shinobi..." Yusuke soon started.

"It's...the shinobi world is really, really complicated." Asuka awkwardly responded. "But that's why Good Shinobi exist. To keep it safe." She then concluded.

"It sounds as though you have a massive responsibility on your shoulders." Yusuke stated in response to learning this.

"At the very least it's shared." Asuka replied. "But...there is something I disagree with Jii-chan." She then suddenly confessed.

"Hm? And what would that be?" Yusuke hummed out and questioned in a curious manner.

"I can still climb back down and see the people down there. Talk to them, see and memorise who they are, and then climb back up and wait until the moment is right. Or stay down there and help as soon as they need it." Asuka explained in a wise tone.

"It seems climbing a building is a terrible metaphor." Yusuke soon concluded.

"In hindsight." Asuka replied with a nod. "Basically he thinks that you either stay down at ground level or perch yourself up on the highest building." She then explained.

"There is wisdom in those words, but I believe it is best to have a balance between the two." Yusuke complimented and eventually suggested.

"Yep. That was why I disagreed with him, but I just...stayed quiet and nodded." Asuka soon confessed. "I thought I was wrong." She then mumbled.

"Because he's family." Yusuke stated more than guessed. "Understandable. A lot of young children would think adults would know more but the reality is far more scary." He then added. "Blind trust may hurt in later days." He soon advised.

"Hai, I know that now." Asuka responded with a nod as she remained still as the young artist continued painting.

Eventually...

"Finished!" Yusuke soon declared. "Behold, Asuka! A masterpiece that is sure to match your beauty!" He then added in a passionate manner.

"Huh? Mallow-chan?" Asuka snorted awake before realising what was happening. She backed off from the ledge and looked at Yusuke's painting. "Oh, it's w-" She soon began, before she noticed a few details. Like how she didn't have blonde hair. Or wore it in twin pigtails. "I-It's Ann-chan." She then got out in a small voice.

"Excuse me?" Yusuke questioned in confusion.

"You...You painted Ann-chan!" Asuka soon exclaimed in disbelief.

"Ah." Yusuke got out before leaning a little closer to the painting. "If I narrow my eyes I can see where you are coming from." He soon stated.

"But...I thought you were painting me! Ann-chan isn't even here..." Asuka awkwardly pointed out.

"I am sorry, but she is the only female subject I have memorised to heart." Yusuke soon apologized and explained.

"Why?" Asuka had to ask.

Yusuke blinked as he imagined the tan skinned girl cocking her arms like shotguns while hellfire and death surrounded her. "...She has the ideal body type." He soon answered. "I have painted and drawn her form several times, and I have yet to run out of ideas." He then confessed.

"H-How many paintings of Ann-chan do you have?" Asuka continued to question.

"36." Yusuke answered a little too fast. "I would have more, but Yumi-senpai forced me to sell a few...for transport money." He then revealed.

"...I mean you do need the money." Asuka awkwardly pointed out with a sweatdrop.

"Yes. Ann is my muse in most cases." Yusuke soon confessed. "It is helping me from the rut I'm stuck in currently." He then revealed.

"Really?" Asuka asked in concern. "You haven't mentioned it to us." She then pointed out.

"Do not worry. I'm working it out with Joker. He's been a big help so far." Yusuke admitted.

"Hehe...he's practically our team therapist, isn't he?" Asuka giggled out.

"Well, it's not like any of us can go to one." Yusuke mumbled out. "Still...I feel like they would pale in comparison." He then confessed.

"I can see that." Asuka agreed with a nod. "But...I'm a little worried Akira-kun isn't talking about his own issues to someone. He's just as troubled as us." She then got out in concern.

"Given his attitude, I assume he's handling it in his own way." Yusuke replied. "...Do you want me to try and paint you again?" He then offered.

"No." Asuka replied as she shook her head. "I think I'm good now." She then added.

"Well then, I'll see you tomorrow." Yusuke replied with a smile.

"Hai." Asuka responded with a nod. After packing up the equipment and climbing back down, the two then going their separate ways.

---

(Fast Forward)

"How is any of that crazy compared to what you've described to me before?" Sae questioned in an irritated manner.

"Oh crap. Okay correction, the 7th was a crazy day since that's the day we went to Mementos." Akira corrected.

(Rewind)

---

(7/7, After School)

(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

"...And that's our move!" Asuka happily finished the description of hers and Makoto's Showtime.

SHINE!

"I can't believe that was accepted..." Ann breathed out in shock to hearing the details

"The star is quite picky in terms of what it makes reality. In the Metaverse at least."

"Why can't it do something more useful like teleporting us the Treasure or turnin' Morgana human?" Ryuji groaned.

"Thank you." Morgana grumbled in agreement. "But we can't abuse this power too much. Who knows what it will do if we wish for something really dumb and it accepts." He then advised.

"Ah, the risk of it possibly being like a monkey's paw." Yusuke soon deducted.

"We're at the mercy of a rock." Homura concluded with a sweatdrop as the light grey haired girl nodded in agreement.

"A very shiny, magic rock." Akira soon added while fiddling with the item of mention.

"But a rock nonetheless." Homura stated before groaning. "I will not be surprised if it helps us in some critical moment or something. There's a term for it...Deussex...?" She then started as she tried to remember what the name of the term was.

"Are we going to start this meeting soon or should we save for tomorrow?" Makoto soon questioned in anticipation as a menacing white aura surrounded her.

"N-No, Makoto-chan!" Asuka exclaimed. "We're starting the meeting now!" She then declared.

"Good. Now what's on the agenda, Leader?" Makoto asked in a serious tone as they all gathered around at the table.

"We have a bunch of requests we need to take care of in Mementos." Akira responded while adjusting his glasses.

"Expected, given our slight boost in popularity lately thanks to a certain publicity stunt." Morgana stated as everyone looked at the two roommates.

"They are not taking that down anytime soon..." Homura stated with a smirk. "I used primer this time." She then revealed with a crimson gleam in her eyes.

"Primer is used for better adhesion for paint." Yusuke pointed out. "You...You didn't put primer over the spray paint, did you?" He then questioned.

"I knew what I was doing Yusuke." Homura replied with a playful wink. Meanwhile, in her head, she was slapping herself in the forehead.

"Use varnish next time." Akira whispered to the tan skinned girl.

"Thank you." Homura whispered back as she then coughed into her fist. "In any case, shall we begin discussing these requests?" She then suggested.

"Yep." Akira responded as everyone leaned in. "And I have one that wasn't posted on the Phan-site." He soon started off.

"Ooh, nice work Leader." Ryuji got out with a smile. "How'd ya do it?" He then asked.

"...I got scammed." Akira answered in a sheepish tone.

"WHAT!?" The others immediately exclaimed in shock.

"Yeah. However, something came out of it. Mona, if you will?" Akira then started as he turned to the not cat.

"We visited a fortune teller recently, who claims to have all her fortunes come true. We got caught up in it and spent 100,000 yen on a Holy Stone, which turned out to be a salt rock." Morgana began explaining.

"Y-You wasted money on something like that!?" Asuka and Ann exclaimed in disbelief.

"Aw, you mean the chick that read those cards back when we were finding Kaneshiro's name?" Ryuji remembered before groaning. "Oh...no, that's bringing back a terrible experience..." He then muttered as he dropped his head in depression.

"There there, Ryuji-san." Yumi meanwhile comforted while patting his head.

"You never did tell us what happened back there..." Homura got out with a frown.

"And you will continue to not know." Akira bluntly stated. "Maybe I can borrow Haruka-chan's potion to get payback on them for Ryuji . ." He thought to himself.

"But she did predict the Boss winning the lottery. He even shared some of his winnings with him." Morgana pointed out. "But that's not the point. It's what happened after we came back to get our money back." He then began.

"Another scam?" Ryuji guessed as he crossed his arms, almost expecting that they were going to have to change the fortune teller's heart.

"No." Akira answered in a serious tone.

Morgana soon cleared his throat. "This intel is on a man who's been abusing his girlfriend. The boyfriend, Yuya Uchimura, has assaulted her countless times. That fortune teller even predicted she'd be badly hurt if left alone. Those fortunes often come true..." He informed.

"Fortunes aside, we can't let this guy use violence against her!" Ann called out. "I don't want her getting hurt. We should change his heart." She then got out.

"I agree. It's only natural for us to change the heart of a person like that." Makoto agreed with a nod.

"OK, it looks like we're all ready to do this! We already told Mishima, so the forum post is up and running. Sorry we jumped the gun a little bit but no objections, right?" Morgana soon got out before looking around, only to see determined expressions on the Thieves' faces. "That's a unanimous decision! OK, all that's left now is to take down the target in Mementos!"

"We're Ending the Boyfriend's Abuse." The Vice Leader declared. "Anything else?" She soon questioned.

"Oh right, I just remembered!" Homura suddenly exclaimed. "Kazuya Makigami!" She then reminded.

"Shit! The stupid burgers ring!" Ryuji grumbled to himself as he slapped his forehead.

"Burglary ring." Makoto corrected.

"Almost forgot about him." Ann winced out. "He's the leader of the gang robbing places in Shibuya under the name of the Phantom Thieves right?" She then asked as a reminded.

"Yep!" Morgana got out. "We let this sit for too long. We have to take care of it now." He then declared.

"It's the Phantom Thieves VS Burglary Ring! Let's make sure we come out on top!" Asuka declared with a fist pump.

"Hmm...there haven't been robberies in Shibuya though..." Makoto got out with a frown. "We might want to look into that before we head out."

"Good thinking." Akira agreed.

"Next up...I have been informed by an informant that the CEO of a company has been pushing their employees too far. Unpaid overtime, short lunch breaks and the like. This has led to at least a few hospitalizations. It seems they are treating their business as a black company rather than an office space." Yumi informed after listing off all the details.

"So someone is being overworked at their job..." Makoto stated as she narrowed her eyes.

"Just like Makoto-senpai was with the principal." Homura got out in anger. "We need to help them out right away." She then declared.

"Agreed. A lot of people have died or commited suicide due to karoshi. We can't let this go on for any longer." Makoto soon stated in agreement.

"Let's give them the break they need then." Asuka declared as she cracked her knuckles. "What else do we need to talk about...?" She then asked.

"How about the mushroom guy in Yongen?" Akira spoke up.

"Oh, him." Yumi got out, remembering she was the one who requested him to look into it. "Is he really a drug dealer?" She soon questioned in concern.

"Nope." Akira automatically answered, causing the light grey haired girl to blink. "He...just sells mushrooms. Like normal, non-hallucinogenic mushrooms."

"So just...mushrooms?" Ann got out while the light grey haired girl was already texting her informant that their information was faulty.

"Really good mushrooms." Akira clarified. "For cheap too. He usually sells them to struggling university students and the like. But as it turns out someone's been extorting him. At this rate, he might be forced to sell the more illegal kind."

"Goddammit! We actually found someone trying to do good and now some dick's exploiting him! That's just wrong!" Ryuji called out in frustration.

"I...I kinda want those mushrooms." Asuka admitted as she poked her fingers together. "The mushrooms we buy usually aren't very good." She then explained.

"To sell such quality mushrooms for a low price...we cannot let this stand!" Yusuke dramatically declared. "We shall Free the Fungus!" He then passionately declared.

"Of course you would have the biggest problem." Yumi deadpanned. "But it looks like everyone is in agreement. Our target is Kenji Kawano, and I have already sent out an informant to deliver the calling card. Let us take their heart without fail!" She then declared in a passionate tone.

"And finally, we have a follow-up to one of our first requests." Morgana soon started. "Remember Kaname Asagiri? His heart was successfully changed and now their friend has requested for us to go after the source of both his and his sister's problems: their father, Jirou Asagiri." He then reminded and revealed.

"Asshole..." Ryuji grumbled out. "I remember hearing 'bout him down in Mementos. He likes to beat his son just so he'd get into Tokyo U all while neglecting his daughter. Is that their situation so far?"

"Yep. That sounds right." Asuka got out with a pissed off look on her face. "We are going to give his Shadow a little taste of his own medicine before we change his heart." She then declared.

"This one...this one is personal." Homura growled.

"He might turn himself in, though. Both child abuse and neglect are very serious crimes and no amount of remorse would ever make them forgive him." Yumi pointed out.

"Well, it will certainly be better than their situation now. And hopefully they have someone who'll take them in." Makoto sighed out. "Come on, let's Take down the Abusive Father." She then ordered.

"Looks like everyone is in agreement." Morgana got out. "Mishima should've put up the calling card online by now so his Shadow should be in Mementos. Let's do this." He then declared.

"Is that all the requests we have?" Makoto soon questioned.

"Yep." Morgana replied with a nod. "We'll probably have more once the police say Kaneshiro's in jail." He then stated.

"Alright, ready to head out Thieves?" Akira asked as he stood up.

"To Mementos!" Asuka

"Time to put Homura's training to good use." Makoto declared while cracking her knuckles and with a smirk of excitement on her face.

---

(Mementos, Entrance)

"I think my sight is off..." Widow muttered out, looking down the scope of her sniper rifle. After Yin distributed their equipment, Queen had mandated everyone to make sure their weapons were in working order. Didn't want something to break or jam in the middle of battle.

"We never had our guns jam on us." Yang mumbled out as she mimicked Mirai's routine of checking weapons.

"Your gun jammed back when you first busted yourselves as Phantom Thieves." Widow quickly pointed out as she looked down her scope.

"The museum?" Skull got out with a raised eyebrow. "Man, Widow, you have a good memory."

"Thank you, Skull." The info broker thanked the dyed blond before moving her scope across her gun's rail.

"Why are you even usin' your sight? You don't even do any real sniping." Skull pointed out.

"Well, you may never know when the situation may call for it." Widow responded as she adjusted her sight. "There, that's better." She then got out in relief.

"You should treat every weapon you use with the respect it deserves, as it can turn on you if you don't." Queen advised as she cleaned her revolver.

"Same thing with people too." Panther got out. "I guess that's why our targets fall while we're still standing." She then added.

"Yeah." Mona agreed with a nod. "Make sure you all get along. We have to have each other's backs here no matter what. I should know." He then instructed.

"Yep." Skull got out as he stretched his legs. "Don't want to get killed 'cause I keep calling ya a cat." He then added.

"I am not!" Mona called out. "You better make it up to me next time we hang out."

"Yeah yeah yeah..." Skull however played off.

"Wait," Yang suddenly got out, her attention drawn from her twin submachine guns and to the conversation. "You two hang out? Like, with each other? Without any of us?" She then asked in a curious manner.

"Yeah? We've been doin' that since we took down the castle whenever we have the time." Skull responded with a raised eyebrow. "Did we ever mention it before?" He then asked.

"No, not that I'm aware of..." Fox muttered out before his eyes suddenly widened. "...Wait." He then started as he then recalled something.

(Rewind)

---

(6/26, Daytime)

(Shibuya, Toyo Cinema)

"You wanna know how I got this cream? My father...was a baker, and a fiend. And one night, he goes off crazier than usual. Mommy gets the kitchen knife to defend herself. He doesn't like that. Not. One. Bit. So, me watching, he throws a cake at her, laughing while he does it. He turns to me and says, 'Why so crusty?' Comes at me with a cake. 'WHY SO CRUSTY?' He sticks a piece in my mouth...'LET'S PUT SOME FROSTING ON THAT FACE!' And...Why so crusty?"

"Such...beautiful prose! Such artistry! I didn't think a movie would move me to tears! Truly a cult classic in the making." Yusuke praised, wiping tears from his eyes and annoying several movie goers.

Meanwhile, unaware that their Leader was battling against sleep-inducing sheep in his head, Morgana and Ryuji were having a conversation.

"Didn't we see this movie before, Morgana?" Ryuji whispered to the not cat.

"Yeah, and I saw it with Joker too." Morgana admitted. "I can't believe I've seen this movie three times, but it just makes less and less sense every time." He then added.

"I can see what it means." Ryuji casually revealed.

"What?" Morgana got out in confusion and surprise.

"As an empiricist, the Gagster's bakery-related crimes and cake-throwing insanity are attempts to test his theory that people are fundamentally and similarly moral-less, and that the constructed hierarchies of society only serve to oppress the underserved and hide the natural tendencies of this human immorality. He wants to prove that moral codes are superficial layers of conformity, and that people only do good to reap the benefits of the social establishment. He doesn't believe in altruism. The Cakeman represents everything he doesn't believe in." Ryuji simply explained.

"...You really got all that from the movie?" Morgana had to ask, a little overwhelmed by the explanation.

"Oh hell no, I read an article by someone way smarter than me when I went home." Ryuji casually revealed.

"...Oh." Morgana got out in a flat tone. "You have a freakishly good memory. Why can't you apply that to studying?" He then admitted and asked.

"Because this shit is actually interesting. Rather be learnin' 'bout food and manga than dead people from a century ago." Ryuji answered as he turned his gaze back to the silver screen.

"You would do amazing at trivia shows." Morgana stated.

"Hell yeah I would. Don't tell Homura that or she'll make me split the prize." Ryuji replied, earning a small chuckle from the not cat.

"My lips are sealed." Morgana said before returning his attention back to the movie as well.

"Do cats even have lips?" Akira thought before wincing as the Gagster creampied someone...with a cream pie to the face.

"Hm?" Yusuke hummed out. He had caught something about cat lips and imperialism but once the Cakeman appeared and beat the Gagster with blueberry muffins, he turned his attention back to the movie.

---

(Fast Forward)

"You did order us to get along better. So we are." Mona concluded with a huff.

"Speaking of orders, what are our Leaders doing?" Queen asked as she looked over to see Joker spaced out in the corner while Yin was seemingly talking to him.

"Probably back in loli paradise, talking to the lolis making stronger Personas." Yang assumed.

"Is it really a loli paradise?" The advisor however questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"I dunno." Yang replied while shrugging her shoulders.

"Didn't Joker say it was a prison?" Fox pointed out.

"...Oh yeah." Yang murmured out. "...Still seems like a loli paradise to me." She then added, unaware that the meaner twin warden could hear her quite clearly.

"Can you get your roommate to can it about our prison being this...loli paradise she seems to insist it is!?" Caroline grumbled out as she glared at the tan skinned girl.

"Well, she can't see you like we can." Yin however pointed out.

"Doesn't mean I can't give her a little discipline..." Caroline soon got out.

"Hurt her and I hurt you!" Yin threatened.

"Oh like you can try!" Caroline countered while preparing her baton.

"Caroline, you know we can not." Justine however chided, exiting the Velvet Room along with their prisoner. "Remember what happened after our battle of cuteness?" She then reminded.

"I really hate that you can say that with a straight face..." Caroline got out in annoyance. "Look, just make sure your lover watches her mouth." She then ordered.

"It's a sister-like relationship! Why does everyone say stuff like that!?" Yin exclaimed.

"Maybe in another universe." Justine muttered out.

"Excuse me?" Yin responded in confusion.

"It's nothing." Joker responded automatically. "Made Arsene better and got some new items." He then revealed.

"Oh great!" Yin replied as she handed the Leader the duffle bag.

"Ah...yeah..." Joker began as he placed some of the items into the bag. "Some of the items I made aren't meant for thievery." He then admitted.

"Hm?" Yin hummed out, before feeling a slap to her thigh. "Ow!" She yelped out before turning to see an indignant warden holding out a box hastily wrapped in blue and gold wrapping paper.

"Here." Justine suddenly informed as she offered it to the Vice Leader.

"Huh?" Yin got out as the wardens placed the velvet gift in her hands. "What is this?" She then asked.

"A reward...from that dumb battle all the way back at your first outing as a thief." Justine replied in an indignant manner. "Be thankful we remembered, Ms. Asuka." She then instructed.

Joker meanwhile coughed at that.

"Moh...Don't remind me of that place..." Yin mumbled in a sad tone before she blinked. "Wait...it can't be..." She then got out in a surprised manner before opening it.

"Hee ho~!" The Jack Frost plushie got out.

"Please only say hee ho when squeezed..." Joker mentally begged.

The Vice Leader's eyes soon sparkled with delight at the sight. "Wh-What? Where did you get this!? When did you get this!?" Yin soon asked.

"The inmate used a useful item that allowed us to transmute a Persona into such a form." Caroline revealed.

"Akira-kun?" Yin whispered.

"Just called in a favor or two." Joker vaguely muttered out.

Haruka was definitely going to have a field day with that Shadow Blood.

"I-I'm not sure what to say..." Yin soon admitted as she tightly held the plushie.

"Then don't say anything. Let your actions speak louder than words." Joker replied and instructed.

The Vice Leader looked confused under her mask for a second before gasping and slapping the Leader. "Ow!" Joker yelped out in pain.

"J-Joker, I would never do that!" Yin called out.

"What?" Joker got out in confusion. "You won't fight harder today!? Urgh...I think I need some Recov-R..." He then grunted out.

"H-Huh? I-I thought you meant...I mean, when Homu-nee told me when people say that..." Yin stammered out in an embarrassed manner.

"You know, if this is gonna happen every time I give you a gift, I need to equip Personas with physical resistance." Joker replied in a half-joking manner.

"I-I'm so sorry, Akira-kun! Ack, I mean, Joker!" Yin squeaked and apologized.

"It's fine...just gotta be clearer next time...ow..." Joker responded as he winced in pain.

"Erm, Mediarama!" Yin soon commanded.

Meanwhile, everyone was staring at the two Leader's comedy routine with flat expressions on their faces, even when Kaeru healed them as well.

"..." Queen could only shake her head. These were the people currently avoiding both police and shinobi. And she was one of these goofballs.

"Huh, finally got that plushie you wanted Sis." Yang got out as the two returned to the group. "Hehe, it's cute." She then had to admit as she glanced towards the Leader, who in turn felt a smirk being formed underneath the tan skinned girl's mask. "That's some brownie points for you Joker." She soon informed.

"Do I actually get brownies?" Joker soon asked in a joking manner.

"Hmm...Maybe when the world doesn't need the Phantom Thieves. " Yang responded as she shrugged her shoulders "Though I never cooked brownies before." She then confessed.

"Well, you're off to a great start considering you bake brownies." Joker pointed out.

The tan skinned girl blushed at that, a little thankful her mask was hiding it. "Noted." Yang replied with a nod with a giggle escaping her lips.

"Hey, can we get this show on the road already!?" Skull called out as Mona turned into the Morganamobile.

"I'm driving today!" Queen called out.

"Come on, Sis. If we take care of these requests, you'll have more time deciding where to put this little guy." Yang replied while taking her roommate's free hand.

"Hai! Let's go, Frosty-kun!" Yin happily replied as she made her way to the rest of the group.

Joker meanwhile chuckled as he made his way to follow the rest of the group as well.

---

(Chemdah, Area 2)

"Man, some of these assholes were easy." Skull admitted while rubbing the back of his neck.

"It just goes to show that Yang's training is fruitful." Queen meanwhile praised in a satisfied tone before the Thieves got out of the Morganamobile.

"I do my best. Thanks senpai." Yang replied with eye smiles as the two bumped fists with one another.

"You seem to be getting along even better now." Widow pointed out with a smile.

"We are, aren't we?" Yang replied as she looked at the Advisor.

"We are." Queen responded in agreement.

"I don't see a problem in that." Queen and Yang soon concluded in unison.

"You do that way too often." Skull pointed out.

"Huh?" Yang got out in confusion.

"With Yin, with Widow, now with Queen..." Skull listed off.

"Huh?" Queen, Widow, Yin and Yang all got out in confusion.

"See! That right there!" Panther exclaimed. "I swear, you're all melding minds and soon you can't tell each other apart..." She then accused.

"That is not true." They all denied it together before blinking. "Okay, maybe it is." They then admitted before giggling as a group.

"This just means they are in perfect sync, which should help in battle." Fox soon stated. "I would love to get a sketch of them in combat together." He then admitted.

"Later." Joker spoke up as he glared just ahead. "We have a heart to change. Stay focused." He then ordered.

"Hai, Leader." Yang, Yin, Widow and Queen responded with a nod.

Joker sweatdropped before focusing back on the Shadow. A middle aged man, probably in his 50s. "Who is he?" He soon asked the not cat.

"Jirou Asagiri." Mona answered. "The abusive father." He then stated.

"So he's first on our list." Yin started as she looked ahead. "Ready to go, Joker?" She soon asked.

The Leader in response nodded as the group approached the target.

"He's getting into Tokyo U...My son will damn well be getting into Tokyo U..." The target Shadow growled to himself.

"Well that doesn't sound obsessive..." Yang remarked as she glared at the Shadow.

"Are you Jirou Asagiri?" Queen asked as the founding Thieves glared at the man.

"Get out, I have no time for you..." The Shadow however demanded. "I must make sure Kaname gets into Tokyo U no matter what..." He then declared.

"I don't think he can with you breathing down his neck or beating him to a pulp." Joker countered. "For your crimes of child abuse and child neglect. Your heart will be changed."

"It's encouragement." The Shadow simply stated as though he was unphased or didn't even care about the declaration towards him.

"Bullshit! You're just makin' him as bad as you!" Skull countered as he stomped his foot in anger. "You have a little girl, goddammit!" He then reminded.

"No...I...DON'T!" The Shadow however declared in anger as he glared at the group.

"Stand back!" Joker ordered before everyone jumped back.

"I WILL NEVER ACKNOWLEDGE HER AS FAMILY! ALL THAT'S NEEDED IS MY SON!" Shadow Asagirl shouted out in a furious manner. "SHE'S ONLY AN EYESORE MY BITCH OF A WIFE LET INTO OUR HOUSE!" He then declared.

"You talk about her as if she's a stray dog." Fox soon accused, disgusted from hearing that.

"That's not too far from the truth." The Shadow got out in disdain.

In response to that, it only took a few seconds for the Thieves to connect the dots. "Your daughter was adopted!?" Yin exclaimed in shock.

"You serious!?" Skull got out in disbelief.

"It's not wrong though, is it?" Shadow Asagiri pointed out. "I can treat her however I want. Make it a blessing that I allow her into the house." He then declared.

"And that's why you never paid attention to her..." Joker concluded in disgust while grating his teeth with narrowed eyes.

"God, this little girl has a horrible life..." Panther mumbled out in a saddened tone.

"I wouldn't be surprised if she thought of killing herself." Queen growling.

"You do not deserve children, you fucking terrible man." Yang also growled out.

"Your legacy ends here. We won't allow your actions to destroy your son and daughter." Fox declared.

"Don't you dare tell me about my actions! I AM HIS FATHER AND I WILL MAKE HIM THE PERFECT SON, WHO PASS ON MY LEGACY TO THE DESERVING!" The Shadow soon declared as he soon exploded with power, transforming into a Greek warrior.

"The only thing you deserve is a change of heart." Joker responded with a glare. "Give us all you got, because at least you'll go down fighting!" He then ordered, getting nods in response from the others.

---

(Cue Red by Mori Calliope)

"You dare treat me like a mere mortal!? I AM MY FAMILY'S GOD AND I WILL SHOW YOU WHY I AM!" The Shadow declared as he readied himself.

"It's a World Bearer!" Mona exclaimed.

"Atlas." Joker whispered to himself. A Happy Squirrel Persona he had his eyes on once he was strong enough.

"What makes him think he can carry the world?" Fox growled before ripping off his mask, his Persona standing valiantly behind him. "The only thing he'll be carrying is his guilt. Goemon...STRIKE!" He soon commanded, hitting the Shadow with a Rising Slash!

SLASH!

"GAH!" Shadow Asagiri grunted out. "YOU DARE TOUCH ME! GATLING BLOWS!" He then declared, the Thieves distinctly hearing his arms click like guns.

"Oh shit!" Skull called out before the artist was pummeled with lightning fast punches.

"ORAORAORAORAORAORAORAORA!"

"AAAAAHHHH!" Fox screamed before one final punch sent him flying away.

"FOX!" Widow exclaimed before catching the boy.

"Crap, Fox doesn't look too good right now!" Mona informed.

"I'm guessing he's a physical type..." Queen muttered out as she quickly healed the young artist.

"Skull, Fox, Yang, Queen! Up in front!" Joker ordered as he, Yin, Panther, Widow and Mona jumped back.

"Hai, Leader!" The Thieves in mention responded as they took their positions.

"Back row ready...!?" Joker called out before summoning Sphinx. "GIVE IT ALL YOU GOT!" He then ordered.

"PERSONA!" The Thieves called out they blasted the Shadow with their best spells they had, however they didn't have much luck. It had even blocked against Widow's water spell.

"You think those magic tricks can ever damage me? Brain Shake!" The Shadow declared.

The Leader's eyes immediately widened to hear that. "Frontline! DODGE!" Joker soon ordered.

"Already on it!" Queen called out as they dived out of the way, some were barely able to get out of the way of the attack, but others had gotten hit, even those in the back row.

Yang shivered at that. "How many of these goddamn Shadows can do mind control bullshit...?" She mumbled to herself in annoyance.

"Damn, this is getting effin' rough!" Skull winced.

"He's stronger than anticipated." Mona panted out before they noticed a red aura flare around the Shadow.

"It's charging up something big!" Fox announced.

"Everyone get ready to guard!" Joker ordered.

"TASTE DESPAIR! BAD BEAT!" Shadow Asagiri declared before slamming the ground, sending a shockwave of dark energy.

"WATCH OUT!" Mona cried out before everyone put up their guard. However...

"There are some at low health...They might not be able to take it..." Yin thought before ripping off her mask. "Kaeru! Mediarama!" She soon ordered.

"YIN! WATCH OUT!" Yang called out.

However Yin closed her eyes as she felt her energy drain just before she was hit and thrown back. "AAAAHHHH!" She cried out.

"Dammit! Yin's down!" Mona exclaimed. Everyone quickly covered the Vice Leader while Mona went to attend to her.

"N-No, I'm fine! T-That wasn't so..." Yin coughed out. Everything ached but she felt...

Yin suddenly felt cold as she looked down...and saw several blades piercing her body.

Asuka coughed as she tried to pull the blades out but...she...she wasn't strong enough.

Around her, Hanzō Academy was burning down while her friends laid around her, dying or breathing their last breath.

And in front of her was Homura with a mad grin on her bloodstained face.

"Hehehe...HAHAHA!" Homura laughed out loud. "You...You really think I was your friend!? Your sister or some bullshit like that!? What kind of delusion did you convince yourself of? You're just a target." She then declared.

"H-Homu-nee?" Asuka whispered out before the tan skinned girl stabbed her again, this time through the eye. "AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" She cried in pain.

"Pathetic. And I thought you would put up a decent fight. I expected more from the legendary shinobi's granddaughter." Homura spat out before spitting on her face. "Goodbye. I hope hell treats you well." She then got out before joining an equally bloody Yumi and...and someone else as they razed the rest of the area to the ground.

"This...This isn't...This isn't happening!" Asuka mumbled out as she tried to pick herself up. "W-What about the Phantom Thieves!? What about what we've been through for the past few months!? Was that all a lie!?" She then thought in a panic.

Soon, Asuka clutched her head as the voices of all her friends...her former and dead friends...got louder and louder, like they were trying to break into her brain as she started to sink and fall into a void of darkness.

You don't deserve to live

You killed us all

I wish you never existed

You don't know the hurt of a shinobi

This is what happens when you rely on others

It's all your fault.

All her friends...her family...

They didn't need her...they didn't even want her...

Why...Why did everyone hate her...?

No...it was her fault. She was the problem. She was the worst.

She didn't deserve to exist. To waste the air around her.

Asuka was worse than nothing. She was better off-

WHACK!

Yin's eyes snapped open as she tumbled onto the ground. Her cheek really hurt for some reason.

"That was a close one!" A significantly beat-up Joker called out. "Panther! I need healing! Yin, get the hell up and fight!" He soon ordered.

The Vice Leader blinked as she tried to get her bearings straight. "R-Right!" Yin hesitantly got out as she ripped her mask off as all her confusion turned into unadulterated rage. "MAGNARA!" She roared as Kaeru speared the Shadow through the gut.

RUMBLE! SPIKE!

"GAAAAAAAHHHHH!" The Shadow cried in pain. "Dammit, you were supposed to die!" He then declared in anger and frustration.

"Not that easily." Fox responded with narrowed eyes before charging at the Shadow with Queen.

"Sis." Yang breathed out as she helped her roommate up. "Are you alright?" She soon asked in concern while the inflicted girl rubbed her right eye.

"I... I..." Yin panted out as she brought her mask over her head and wiped the sweat off her face. "What...happened exactly?" She soon asked.

"That Shadow hit you with Despair." Mona informed. "It's a terrible affliction. First, you lose your energy then a short while after... you succumb to the darkness and..." He continued before trailing off.

"Dude, you were about to shoot yourself." Skull finished. "We just couldn't do anything and..." He started, but trailed off at the end.

"I-It was...horrible..." Yin muttered in a scared tone.

"We're getting Despair resistance after this..." Joker muttered to himself. "You wanna keep going, Yin? I mean...you probably-" He then got out, however...

"N-No. I'm fine. It...It wasn't real. I can get over it..." Yin replied, though uneasy as she looked at the tan skinned girl and shook her head. "No, Homu-nee would never..." She then thought to herself.

"Sis, you alright?" Yang meanwhile asked in concern.

"...I'll tell you tonight, 'kay?" Yin mumbled out as she took her roommate's hand. "But right now I want to rip Asagiri's fucking throat out with my teeth." She soon confessed with a growl.

"S-Sis..." Yang got out in shock after hearing that.

"S-Sorry...it really got to me..." Yin meekly responded.

The tan skinned girl's eyes widened to that before narrowing them in cold fury. "...Leave it to me...rest for now..." Yang soon ordered in a dead serious tone.

"No...I want to fight." Yin got out as she gritted her teeth. "Don't. Stop me." She then ordered back in a dead serious tone.

"Yin, you should..." Yang tried to convince her roommate, only to be glared down. "...Fine. But-" She then replied and started before-

"I'll be fine!" Yin snapped before rushing at the Shadow.

SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH!

"WHOA!" Queen exclaimed, barely managing to move her body out of the way before she sliced to ribbons by the Vice Leader. "Yin, watch where you're swinging!"

"Get down!" Fox shouted out as he pushed the advisor down, just in time for an attack to fly over their heads. Whether it was from their target or the Vice Leader, he didn't care. "I don't think we're necessary right now." He then stated as he saw the girl jumping around and slashing at the Shadow.

"Fox, you're crushing my abdomen." Queen groaned.

Fox looked down and saw that his knee was indeed on her abs and quickly scrambled off her.

"Holy shit, she's winning by herself!" Skull exclaimed.

"She certainly is." Joker simply replied while silently summoning Personas to buff the innocent little monster they made Vice Leader.

"ACKNOWLEDGE HER EXISTENCE DAMMIT!" Yin shouted out as she grinded the Shadow's helmet across the ground.

"NEVER! RRRAAAAHHHH!" Shadow Asagiri declared as he broke out of the Vice Leader's grasp and tried to land a Gatling Blow, only for her to dodge every attack with ease before pulling something out from the duffle bag.

"Psycho Bomb!" Yin called out before throwing it at the Shadow.

WEEP!

"Guh!" Shadow Asagiri grunted out.

"Weak to Psycho, huh." Mona muttered out. "All-Out Attack?" He soon suggested.

"Jump in and finish it off!" Yin ordered as the others nodded and went at it.

SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! WHAM! CRACK! SLASH! SLAP! WHAM!

"AAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" The Shadow screamed in pain, his own blood covering his armor.

"One more!" Joker called out.

The Shadow groaned yet still got up on his two feet. "Your actions are futile! I AM A GOD AND WILL BOW TO ME!" Shadow Asagiri shouted out, frothing at the mouth. "BRAIN SHAKE!"

"Tetrakarn!" Joker quickly called out as he summoned Arsene, who instantly created a shield around the Vice Leader.

WHAM! SHATTER!

Yin glared at Shadow Asagiri as the shield shattered around her. "Not anymore! Lucky Punch!" She screamed out as Kaeru pulled out her boxing glove.

BONK!

"GAH!" The Shadow cried out in pain, stumbling back while the Vice Leader pulled out her pistols.

"YOU WILL NEVER HURT ANYONE AGAIN!" Yin declared before pulling the triggers.

BANG! BANG!

(End Music)

---

"And that...was for making me think my loved ones betrayed me." Yin whispered to herself as the Shadow transformed back into its human form.

The tan skinned girl however heard that as her eyes widened. " . .That's what you saw?" Yang meanwhile mumbled as she took her roommate's hand.

"It's...not something I'd rather recall right now..." Yin muttered out in a tired tone. "At home...maybe in the morning." She once more stated.

Yang soon growled before aiming one of her submachine guns at the Shadow. "Do you have anything to say for yourself!?" She soon questioned in held back fury. "Why beat your son and neglect your daughter like that?" She then added.

"She's not my-" The Shadow struggled out, however.

"She is to your wife and you will treat her as such!" Widow interrupted. "Now confess! Why such acts of cruelty!?" She soon demanded and questioned.

"I don't have anything to say..." The Shadow simply countered.

"You don't even sound remorseful..." Fox soon accused. "What corrupted your desires?" He then questioned in disgust.

"My desires are pure. I will not let some dumb kids tell me what's right and wrong." The Shadow countered in a stubborn manner.

"I have to ask...Why did your wife adopt in the first place?" Queen suddenly questioned with a frown. "What situation would lead her to adopt an orphan? It can't be menopause, or trying for a girl..." She then stated.

That in turn got the other Thieves attention as they realized the Advisor asked a good question.

"...Kaname was supposed to be my only child." The Shadow soon revealed.

"Excuse me?" Widow got out.

"I only wanted a son but my bitch wife decided to get pregnant. Stopped that as soon as I could." The Shadow soon revealed.

This immediately caused the group's eyes to widen in anger, disgust, fear, realization and shock.

"You...You didn't..." Panther whispered out.

"No effin' way..." Skull got out in rising fury while gripping his spiked metal bat.

"My life was going exactly how I wanted it to be until that moment. Kaname, Momoko, Aya...they all should've stayed in line." Shadow Asagiri confessed.

"He...He doesn't regret it." Mona got out, shocked to hear this before narrowing his eyes.

"No...his distortion comes from his control and power and how it was all taken away from him..." Queen realised, feeling the heat in her heart rise to nuclear levels.

"You...You FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT!" Yin declared, tears running down her face as everyone pulled out their guns and aimed them at his head.

"You committed the worst sin of all!" Widow cried, tears of anger staining her eyes.

"You really think you're the good guy here!?" Skull called out.

"You...You're a monster!" Panther stated.

"You abused your wife when she was pregnant with her child and made it so she couldn't have children anymore!?" Yang questioned in a furious manner. "YOU FUCKING KILLED YOUR UNBORN CHILD BECAUSE YOU COULDN'T HANDLE NOT HAVING POWER! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!?" She soon roared as she had her crimson fiery aura surrounding both her.

"Absolute scum!" Fox declared in disgust.

"Joker...just say it...just say anything and we'll do it..." Yin soon requested, her form shaking in barely restrained anger.

This wasn't about giving their target a cruel mercy anymore, it was ensuring he would never hurt anyone again and bring justice to the life he had taken.

And almost instantly, Joker snatched the guns out of her hands and unloaded them. "Everyone, if you can't trust yourself to not shoot him, put your guns away. Now." He soon ordered.

There was a pause before everyone holstered their weapons.

The Shadow was surprised by the act of mercy. "What are you doing?" He had to ask.

"Giving you what you deserve." Joker answered as he pulled out his dagger.

Seeing the cold expression on his face, the abusive father scrambled backwards. "P-Please...I have a wife and kids...!" The Shadow whimpered.

That however just infuriated the group as a whole upon hearing that plea. "Don't you dare use them as if you cared about them in the first place!" Joker growled in cold fury before stepping towards the man. "You wouldn't be here if you did." He then added, looking ready to stab the man in the eye.

"Don't! Please!" Shadow Asagiri exclaimed as he shielded his face.

The Leader scowled and raised his knife in the air. "I wish I could take away your ability to raise a fist in any circumstance...I wish I could steal your spine and snap it in such a way that you'll need to be fed through a fucking tube..." Joker admitted, his hand clenching before relaxing and putting the weapon down. "But I can't. I won't. I would be no better than you. So, I'll settle for stealing your heart." He then breathed out.

"T-Thank y-" The Shadow began to thank the Leader, only for him to grab his collar and pull him face-to-face, his mask touching his face and making it clear that his eyes were blood red.

"I'm not done, Asagiri-san. If we ever hear a peep that you've done anything to anyone, we will track you down in the real world and make my previous promise a long and painful reality. Do whatever you want until then. Turn yourself in, beg for forgiveness for the rest of your life, I don't give a shit about a stain like you. But one slip and we will be there. Am I clear?" Akira soon stated before he threw him to the ground. He didn't even raise his voice an octave all throughout.

The Shadow nodded.

"Get out of my sight. Now." Joker ordered in a cold tone.

And with that, the Shadow vanished, leaving his Treasure behind. However, the Leader had already turned his back on it.

"I got it." Mona got out as he took hold of the Treasure. "An SP Adhesive 3." He revealed before looking at everyone, who were already heading for the exit. "But I have the feeling we won't need it." He then muttered out.

"We can buy one at the clinic. Leave it behind." Joker ordered in a cold tone.

Mona looked at the accessory before throwing it over his shoulder and transforming.

"You okay, Joker?" Yin asked as she ran up to the boy.

"I am now." Joker breathed out. "Thanks for taking my gun." He soon thanked the Vice Leader.

"You knew I had it?" Yin got out in surprise before handing the pistol back to the Leader.

"If I did have it, he wouldn't last the first sentence." Joker admitted. "Now, let's go. To the deepest floor we can get to."

"Hai, Leader." Yin responded with a nod before downing some drinks from the duffle and heading into the Morganamobile.

---

(Fast Forward)

"Man Yin and Yang really cuddled a lot that night after that happened..." Akira confessed with a sigh. He couldn't blame them though after hearing about what she saw.

"Jirou Asagiri..." Sae repeated, the name bringing out a disgusted look on her face. "He was a real piece of work. Turned himself in only a few hours later if the timing of his change of heart is true." She then revealed as she recalled the bawling and groveling man coming straight into the precinct and confessing all the crimes, his knuckles still bloody from a recent beating he was doing beforehand.

"How is he?" Akira suddenly asked.

"Kurusu-san, I am-" Sae began, however the Leader glared at her, silencing her. This was the first time his anger was directed at her rather than the targets.

"How. Is he?" Akira asked again in a more demanding tone.

"...Currently serving on death row for the murder of his unborn child, as well the abuse of his wife and children. It's quite an unexpected punishment, but special circumstances surrounding his actions gave light to much more...cruel actions." Sae hesitantly answered. "Every day could be his last. But we will make sure his children will never find that out, only that he's going away for a very long time." She then informed.

Akira stayed quiet, letting the news settle in. "And his family?" He soon asked.

"The three remaining members are fine. Happy and healthy, living with a friend's family until they are financially stable." Sae soon replied. "Though the eldest son has been signed up for anger management and therapy." She then added.

"...I don't know how to feel about this..." Akira had to admit. Asagiri was a prime candidate for a Palace, but he was still in Mementos at the time. Plus, he didn't think his actions as a Phantom Thief would put someone on death row. "But...at the very least, we don't have to worry about them." He then mumbled.

"Yes..." Sae replied with a frown. "Now, what were the corrupted desires of the rest of your targets?" She then questioned.

"Well, after that was...the Phantom Thieves VS The Burglary Ring." Akira continued.

(Rewind)

---

(Aiyatsubus, Area 6)

"That's him." Yang informed as they saw the target. "Ready to show this thief what real thieves are about?" She soon asked.

"Definitely. Let's go, everyone!" Joker called out as they stepped towards the Shadow.

"Where am I...?" The Shadow got out in confusion, looking around the twisted underground.

"Huh, you're the first Shadow to ask that." Yin got out, pleasantly surprised.

"This is the perceived world. The other reality given shape by human souls. We're the Phantom Thieves of Hearts and we've come to answer the cries of the oppressed." Widow declared as everyone pulled out their weapons.

"Cries? What are you talking..." The Shadow got out with a raised eyebrow.

"Target: Kazuya Makigami." Joker started. "Nature of request," He then began.

"My older brother is trying to kill me." Mona declared.

"The following comes straight from the Phantom Aficionado Website!" Widow called out.

"Dear Phantom Thieves. I live with my older brother, who physically abuses me every day." Skull soon began reading out the request.

"He's threatened to kill me if I ever tell, so I can't ask anybody for help..." Panther continued.

"It's like I'm my brother's slave." Fox added.

"Naoya...you little bastard...!" Shadow Kazuya growled, glaring at the Phantom Thieves.

"It seems my brother has been committing some kind of crime with his no-good friends." Queen continued reading out the request.

"And I think he's been beating me up to vent his stress over that." Yang then got out.

"I'm begging you, please help me, Phantom Thieves! At this rate, I'm gonna end up dead!" Yin soon read the last bit of the request.

"And that's it." Joker concluded before pointing his knife at the Shadow. "So, anything to say...Makki?" He soon questioned in a taunting tone.

The Target in response remained silent before smirking. "Hehehehe...HAHAHAHA! What the hell do you know?" He suddenly began laughing maniacally.

"You're the leader of the gang robbing stores in Shibuya. And, with some additional information we found on the way here we know your methods." Yin stated in a casual manner.

"You and your merry band of robbers have been using a security company to find the weakest shops in terms of security to hit. Too bad it had to downsize and fire a few people because of that Madarame incident." Queen explained.

"And due to the local mafia, you had to stop your activities before, I don't know, one of you got killed?" Yang continued. "But once you saw the calling card for Kaneshiro..." She then started.

"You're planning to start the crime spree all over again." Widow concluded. "Is that everything?" She then questioned, although the smile on her face said that they hit the nail on the head.

"Grrr...Fine. FINE!" Shadow Makigami shouted out. "I'm the leader of this gang of crooks. Who prodded those idiots into taking on part-time jobs? It was ME!" He soon declared in a proud manner.

"O-Okay, we know." Skull got out as he rolled his eyes.

"I only meant it to be like a minor prank, but those guys got too cocky!" The Shadow continued ranting while the Thieves waited for him to finish and go berserk.

"Is committing larceny a prank these days?" Queen wondered with a raised eyebrow.

"Every one of them is a total moron! All they had to do was shut up and do as I say! Dammit, they piss me off!" Shadow Makigami complained before throwing a crystal at the Thieves.

SHATTER!

"Stop goddamn monologuing!" Panther called out, shattering the crystal with her whip.

"And where did you get that?" Fox questioned.

"So you really treat everyone but yourself as less than human..." Widow soon stated. "Even your own little brother?" She then questioned, disgusted that the brother of one of her school mates would treat him that way.

"That little punk was always following my ass, the tagalong! When he was a little kid, he'd shit his pants and go, "Brother! Brother!" Sniveling and wailing...but look at him now!" Shadow Makigami got out in a mocking tone.

"Too much information, dude!" Skull exclaimed.

"Hurry up and transform. I can't stand to see your stupid face." Yang soon demanded.

"Who do you think you are, Naoya? Asking for help." The Shadow growled as dark energy began to flare around him. "You're just a toy to me. Nothing but a slave! Just do whatever I tell you UNTIL YOU DIE!" he then declared.

SPLASH!

The Thieves soon readied themselves once the Shadow transformed into a muscular blond long haired man, except his lower body was replaced with stone with engravings on it.

"Dude in rock. That's cool." Joker got out with a shrug before letting out a smirk. "Let's break it!" He then ordered.

---

(Cue Last Surprise)

"A Dark Sun..." Mona muttered out. "This one's a lot tougher than the usual Shadows at this level..." He then noted.

"But it doesn't compare to us." Queen got out as she went into her fighting stance. "Any clue on weaknesses, Mona?" She soon asked.

"No, so just start throwing stuff at it!" Mona called out.

"Like usual." Yin got out before ripping off her mask. "Kaeru! Magnara!" She then commanded, shooting a boulder at the Shadow.

CRASH!

The Shadow didn't even flinch as the rock shattered against him.

"Rock against rock isn't great!" Joker called out.

"It's the only attack spell I know!" Yin whined out. "I'll go on support then." She then decided.

"Okay, everyone else, let's give it our all!" Yang responded as she pumped her fist. "Wolverine! Gokuentou!" She soon ordered.

FWOOSH! SLASH!

"Effective, but not good enough..." Yang remarked in annoyance.

"Don't you dare look down on me! Mabufula!" The Shadow soon demanded and declared.

"Yang! Panther!" Joker warned as he switched Personas over to Jack Frost.

"DAZZLER!" The Shadow soon followed up with another skill.

FLASH!

The Leader tried to shield himself, however he only ended up feeling like he got flashbanged. "U-Urgh..." Joker groaned as he stumbled around.

"Oh no, Joker's in a daze!" Mona informed in a panicked manner.

"Oh hell no!" Skull declared as he pulled out a paper fan.

SLAP!

"Thanks." Joker grunted out as he grimaced. Why a paper fan out of all things hurt so much is beyond him.

"And now go to hell! Captain Kidd!" Skull soon declared. "Assault Dive!"

WHAM!

"G-GAH!" The Shadow coughed out after Captain Kidd rammed his ship deep into his gut.

"That was some major damage, Skull!" Mona praised.

"Damn...I need help here!" Shadow Makigami called out, summoning two Shadows to his side who then charged at the Thieves.

"Aw come on, where did the Oni and Onmoraki come from!?" Skull exclaimed as held off the Oni.

"These have to be servants for the robberies he pulled off." Widow deducted.

"Who cares? They'll fall like the rest!" Fox stated.

"Right! This punk's nothing like the last guy!" Yang however declared. "Come on, let's wipe 'em out!" She then ordered.

"Hit it with a status ailment! Someone take it down!" Panther called out.

"I'll do it!" Queen responded, Johanna already out as she revved its engine. "Freila!" She commanded.

KABOOM!

Queen pumped her fist when she saw the red demon collapse. "Oni's down! Passing the baton!" She soon called out as she high-fived Widow.

CLAP!

"Got it!" Widow called out as she took aim with her sniper rifle. "Don't move." She whispered before she pulled the trigger

BANG!

"Bullseye!" Fox cheered.

"Useless...EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!" Shadow Makigami complained, looking ready to crush his own subordinates.

"Joker, your turn!" Widow called out as she high-fived the Leader.

CLAP!

Joker felt the rush of power flow through him, unable to hold down a smile. "Hey, Makki, you can surrender now and save us the energy!" He soon suggested.

"NEVER!" Shadow Makigami called out. "I WON'T LET YOU!"

"Alright, have it your way." Joker responded with a smirk as he summoned his first Persona. "Eiga!" He commanded with a snap of his fingers.

DOOOOM!

"GAAAAAHHHH!" Shadow Makigami screamed in pain, rolling backwards.

"Curse weakness." Joker muttered out. "Half tempted to pull out an instant kill on him..." He soon thought.

"Then it's all on you, Joker!" Mona responded. "But first..."

"ALL-OUT ATTACK!" Queen declared as they rushed the Shadows.

SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! SLASH! WHAM! CRACK! SLASH! SLAP! WHAM!

"What are these guys made of!?" Panther complained as they jumped back. That attack had barely done anything.

"They must have high Defense if they endure us like this..." Mona got out. "Well this'll be a pain." He then admitted.

"Then let's give it our all!" Queen called out as she and the Vice Leader looked at each other and nodded.

"Showtime!" Yin declared while pumping a fist into the air. "Queen! With me!" She then ordered.

"Alright, ladies! Rock and roll!" Joker ordered as the star shined brightly while the two jumped into the air.

Soon, Queen and Yin landed back on the ground with guitars in their hands on a stage, the Shadow amongst the crowd.

"We will rock you!" The two declared as they began playing their instruments...terribly.

"BOO...!" The crowd soon called out along with complaints. "YOU SUCK! GET OFF THE STAGE!" It then demanded.

"Huh?" Yin got out in confusion before noticing that their guitars weren't plugged into their amps. "Whoops." She sheepishly realized.

"Hold on." Queen instructed as the two went to fix things in a comedic manner. "Should be good now." She soon declared in approval

"Okay." Yin replied in agreement and with a nod before the two raised their guitar picks in the air before...

BOOOOOOOOOOM!

And with that single unified strum, the Shadows were blasted away or had their faces melt.

"ROCK AND ROLL!" Queen and Yin declared while pumping their fists into the air before they continued playing to a cheering crowd.

The two soon blinked and realised they were back in reality, holding air guitars while the rest of the Thieves uncovered their ears.

"That was amazing!" Panther declared in awe. "Loud but amazing!" She then admitted.

"We still have Shadow Makigami up!" Mona informed. "But the other two like they're at Death's door!"

"We'll take care of them, Joker! You just go for the big guy!" Skull called out before the rest of the Thieves charged at Shadow Makigami's goons.

The Leader silently nodded before walking towards Shadow Makigami.

"I am thou...Thou art I..." Joker and Arsene began, unflinching as his allies fought bravely around him. "He who calls himself a thief...who merely imitates instead of change...must be shown how he pales to true Tricksters.PERSONA!" He then declared, ripping off his mask.

FWOOSH!

And with that Arsene stood behind the Leader, ready to take down the Shadow with ease.

"No...I won't lose...I WON'T LET YOU TAKE MY HEART!" Shadow Makigami declared as he charged at the Leader, who only sent Arsene to clash with him.

Meanwhile, Mona, Queen, Yang and Widow were fighting the Oni with everything they had.

"Come on, come on!" Yang called out as they barely dodged Oni's Rampage before leaping into action.

Widow tossed her fans at the Shadow, causing it to stumble but not doing a lot of damage. However, Mona followed it up with a Garula, sending it into the air, giving Yang the opening she needed to have Wolverine slice the Oni into ribbons before stabbing him into the ground.

"Queen! Finish 'em!" Mona called out.

"FEEL MY RAGE! FREILA!" Queen roared as she unleashed her spell just as Wolverine returned to the tan skinned girl.

KABOOM!

"AAARRRRGGGGGHHHHH...!" The Oni screamed as it disintegrated in the blast.

"Not even a challenge." Yang snorted with a smirk under her mask.

"Way to go!" Yin cheered out before she focused her attention back on the Corpse Bird along with Panther, Fox and Skull. "Come on, let's finish this one off fast too!" She then ordered.

"Got it, Vice Leader!" Panther responded as they raised their guns.

RATATATTATATATATATA- Click!

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! Click! Click!

"Out of bullets!" Yin informed as she put away her pistols.

"Don't need any more, Yin!" Skull called out as the Vice Leader high-fived him.

CLAP!

As the Corpse Bird stumbled around, the Thieves' enforcer was winding up his weapon like a bat. "And you're outta here!" Skull declared before swinging...

WHAM!

And taking the onion clean off the raw chicken. "That's a homerun!" Panther cheered.

"We're finished here! Let's help Joker now!" Fox called out as he went to join the fight, however Yang stopped him.

"Nope. He's got this. Better not get in his way." Yang stated as they watched the fight.

"Your friends are gone, Makigami-san." Joker calmly informed, even as Arsene and their target savagely fought, trying to rip each other apart.

"How dare you hinder me! You scumbags!" Shadow Makigami growled before being clawed in the face.

"Well, that's a selfish way of looking at it! Straighten him out once and for all, Joker!" Mona called out.

"Every Shadow we fight here...none of them wish to change until we use force..." Joker lamented as he closed his eyes. "Trying to prevent the world from changing, when in reality it is inevitable...because we exist, to fight against this static and corrupt society and give the world a future it deserves. I commend you that you can put up a good fight, but to every distorted heart we'll face...the Phantom Thieves have already won!" He then stated and declared.

"SHUT UP, YOU COCKY LITTLE SHIT!" Shadow Makigami screamed. "MABUFULA!" He soon declared as he unleashed the ice spell on the group.

CRACKLE!

Joker didn't hesitate as he and Arsene dodged the wave of ice before countering with their own attacks, slashing at the Shadow with their dagger and heels before finishing off with a blast of curse.

DOOOOM!

"AAAHHH!" Shadow Makigami screamed in pain as he was thrown back, hitting his back against the wall before sliding down. "This...This isn't the end!" He struggled out.

"No. It is." Joker responded as he leapt high into the air, firing his gun at the fallen Shadow.

BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!

"AAAAGGGGGGHHHHH!" The Shadow screamed in pain before Joker landed on his chest.

"And thus, the Phantom Thieves have stolen your arrogance." Joker declared as he twirled his pistol before aiming at his head. "You're welcome." He then finished with a smirk.

BANG!

(End Music)

---

"AAAAAHHHHHHH!" Shadow Makigami screamed, blown away by the bullet and returned to his human form.

Widow was the first to spot that something had fallen out of his pocket. "Hm? A key?" The info broker whispered out as she picked it up and narrowed her eyes.

"What the hell? Phantom Thieves..." Shadow Makigami got out in a weakened manner as he sat up.

"Have you come to your senses...?" Yin questioned.

"Or do you need a little more convincing?" Yang added as she cracked her knuckles. The Shadow flinched, and that was all the Thieves needed to know that they had neutralised Makigami.

"What is this, Makigami-san?" Widow asked as she twirled the key around her finger.

"It's the key to a drawer in my room." Shadow Makigami explained, an ashamed look on his face. "Give it to my kid brother. You're the good guys, aren't you?" He soon requested.

"You can say that." Yang got out as the light grey haired girl pocketed the key. "But you have to tell us why you started this whole thing in the first place." She then ordered.

Shadow Makigami growled as he clenched his fists. "...Ever since I was a kid...School, society...everyone treated me like I was dirt! My little brother was the smart one, Mom and Dad's favorite. They couldn't care less about me..." The Shadow ranted.

"I'm sure they do though." Yin countered as she kneeled down to his level. "You didn't have to turn to crime to prove your existence. I'm sure you're good at something other than burglary." She then stated.

"But I'm not good at anything else! How can you expect me to live a normal life? I was rebelling against this shitty society!" Shadow Makigami called out, tears running down his face.

"You think violence and crime is rebellion? Don't be stupid." Skull stated as he turned his head away. "We only do the same thing because we have to. But you had a choice. You were just runnin' away like a coward instead of facing the truth." He then accused.

"...Yeah. I guess you're right..." Shadow Makigami mumbled out. "Is that enough?" He then asked.

"Yeah. That's enough." Joker responded with a nod. "Do you have a message for him?" He soon questioned.

"Yeah. Burn what's inside, and toss it." The Shadow requested. "I hope...he can forgive me one day..." He then muttered.

"You have to work for it then." Joker stated as Shadow Makigami vanished. "...Widow, do you know where Makigami lives?" He soon asked.

"It shouldn't take more than a few hours." Widow replied with a nod. "Don't worry, I'll ensure the key goes to his brother." She reassured.

"Good. I guess all we can hope now is that it all resolves by itself." Panther sighed out. God, today has been a rollercoaster.

---

(Fast Forward)

"Yes. He and his gang were all arrested that night." Sae muttered out as she went over her files. "They were given a few years in jail, although I hear that Makigami will be getting parole due to good behavior." She then revealed. "...What did he want to burn?" She soon had to ask.

"Widow told me it was a picture of him and his brother at a kendo tournament. Naoya won but Kazuya came in third." Akira answered. That probably would've been his Treasure if he had spawned a full-blown Palace.

Sae simply nodded to that as she decided to move on with the case. "Next up, the abusive boyfriend you sought to change because of a fortune teller's prediction." She soon started, internally sighing.

"He was gambling away his money and used his girlfriend-shaped punching bag as stress relief. He was a real scumbag. He still had a superiority complex even after we changed his heart. At least we got a new weapon for Skull. Later I got Widow to dig into it afterwards and discovered that they broke up because he was gambling her money away as well." Akira simply explained all the details involving the request. "He's going to therapy now and has a stable job to pay off his massive debt. His ex-girlfriend meanwhile is dating someone else. Actually I met her in Shinjuku, they are...sickeningly sweet. Like, weird pet names and constantly making out, but at least she's happy now." He then awkwardly revealed.

"That checks out as well." Sae mumbled out. "Now, the mushroom guy." She continued.

"Oh, it ended up good for both parties, actually." Akira responded with a small smile. "The guy extorting the mushroom seller wanted his mushrooms all to himself so he could start this fancy ass pizza chain. His bufd of a Treasure was some mushrooms, of course. And they made pretty effective healing items. Last time I checked, they made a deal and now they provide cheap pizza to struggling university students as well as the individual ingredients." He soon explained.

"That does sync up with the date when that restaurant opened." Sae stated. Makoto had mentioned it once or twice in the last few months. "Now what about the CEO treating his office like a black company?" She then asked.

"The company turned out to be always at the brink of bankruptcy. He pushed his workers hard because if they don't, they'll all lose their jobs. We managed to convince him to downsize instead of filing for bankruptcy. People still got laid off but it was better than the alternative. They're doing quite well these days from what I heard, without the horrible workplace practices. We got a daruma doll out of it that I should have on my shelf right now." Akira explained all the details and the aftermath of the events.

"That...all checks out." Sae stated. "There are still quite a few more minor heart changes I would like you to go over, but I will save that for later in your...very, very long story." She then decided. "Please continue." She soon requested.

"Uh...on the 8th..." Akira muttered out as he rubbed the back of his neck.

(Rewind)

---

(7/8, After School)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom Building 3F, Hallway)

Homura was going up the stairs as she looked around to see some students chatting among themselves. "Well, everything seems to be in order at the moment." She thought to herself.

However at that moment, she then heard some commotion from the other students as most of them were talking about a fight happening.

"!?" Homura's eyes widened as she approached the ones talking about the subject. "Excuse me, where is this happening?" She soon asked.

"Right by the biology room. It looks like one of your members is fighting another third year." A male student responded.

Homura in turn nodded to hearing that. "Biology room, got it. Thanks." She replied, making a mental note before heading out. "Jeez, who in the world is fighting?" She then muttered.

As Homura reached the biology room, she noticed several other students surrounding 2 more. She recognized one of them as he wasn't really fighting the other student, but more like dodging his punches with ease. "That's Chitose." She realized as she got closer to the commotion.

She pushed her way through the crowd of students until she reached the center just as the other student was about to land one last desperate strike on the blonde before he tripped him. "Not bad, used his momentum against him." Homura thought to herself in an impressed manner before shaking it off. Now wasn't the time. "Alright, alright, break it up." She soon called out.

Everyone turned to face her as they all started to break away from the fight.

"Oh, hello, Shinkukage-buchou. What brings you here?" Chitose greeted with a smile.

"Well I heard that there was a fight going on and came over to see exactly what it was about." Homura explained. "So, can someone tell me what exactly happened?" She then asked while crossing her arms over her chest in an authority filled manner.

"Mr. Big here was picking on a first year student who was just exiting the biology room." Chitose replied as he handed her some sheets of paper. "As it turns out, he was bullying him to do his homework for him instead of doing it himself." He then revealed.

"Ah screw your group of goody two shoes..." Said bully groaned.

"Good to know Chitose." Homura responded as she looked at the papers.

"Glad to be of help, Shinkukage-bucho." Chitose replied as he nodded before turning to the bully with a seemingly innocent smile "Now then, if I were you, I suggest that you don't harass anyone again. Unless you want me to show you what happens if I don't hold back..." He soon warned. Despite his smile, there was also an underlying killer intent that even shook the bully to his core.

"Seriously though, even after Kamoshida was taken down, there's still incidents like this..." Homura sighed out in disappointment.

"Yes, indeed. And I was able to stop one of these incidents." Chitose agrees while still smiling at the bully. "Now I suggest that you move your ass now before I really get serious. Do I make myself clear?" He soon suggested.

"Che..." The bully got out as he got on his feet and left.

"No respect whatsoever..." Homura muttered. "How about we head back to the committee room Chitose?" She soon suggested.

Chitose in turn let out a sigh as he calmed down and turned to the committee head. "Yeah, that sounds like a good idea." He soon replied.

Homura simply nodded in response as the two headed out.

---

(Disciplinary Committee Board Room)

Homura was sitting at the table while her committee member was standing before her.

"I'm guessing that you're wondering how I got into a fight with him earlier?" Chitose asked, even though he already has a feeling about what she's going to say.

"Indeed I am." Homura replied with a nod.

"As I said before, he was bullying a first year student into doing his homework for him when I saw him on my patrol." Chitose explained. "I tried to break it up, but he didn't stop and it just snowballed from there. I can tell that word has already gotten to you faster than I thought." He then added.

"Ok, I understand Chitose." Homura replied with a nod. "I'm glad you stopped the bully from pulling off what he was doing." She then praised. "But still, I won't tolerate unnecessary violence. That's still grounds for expulsion and that would not reflect well on the committee."

"Thank you, Shinkukage-buchou. And I promise to use violence as a last resort." Chitose responded as he smiled before he then bowed.

"Be sure though to write reports for any bullying cases you stop as well as bring the perpetrators in." Homura soon instructed.

"Of course, I can do that." Chitose nodded "To be honest, I was a little worried about how you'd be after that." He then admitted in relief.

"Hey, this school is already pretty rough as it is. As long as you don't use any violence yourself to take down the bullies, I'm alright with it." Homura replied with a smile of approval.

"Thanks, I'm glad that you're more understanding despite my checkered past." Chitose sighed out in relief. "I'm still not happy with what I did back then, but I'm glad to see that this is the first step in redeeming myself." He then confessed.

"Hm?" Homura hummed out with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh...uh...it's nothing important." Chitose stuttered. "Just talking to myself, that's all." He then added

Homura, despite being curious about what was said, decided not to push it as she simply nodded. "Alright then, I'm just letting you know that we can talk if you need anything." She then offered.

"Ok, I'll be sure to take up on your offer for next time." Chitose replied as he then nodded. "I will make things right..." He soon muttered to himself. "No matter what it takes..." He then added as he clutched his hand into a fist.

Homura subtly narrowed her eyes in a curious manner to that, feeling a small connection forming with her committee member as a result.

I am thou, thou art I.

As to forge a new path in crimson flame,

The vow has been made.

With the secrets of the Hermit by your side,

The forge for a new path will be formed.

Granting great power in return.

RANK UP! HERMIT RANK 1!

Haste Essence: Increase Agility stat points gained after Homura's training.

"Hermit?" Homura mentally got out.

"Something wrong, Shinkukage-buchou? You look out of it." Chitose wondered in concern.

Homura simply shook her head in response. "It's nothing Chitose." She soon replied before standing up. "In any case, how about we patrol for a bit before heading home for the day?" She soon offered.

"Yeah, I'm game." Chitose responded with a nod as he opened the door for her.

"My my, what a gentleman." Homura jokingly replied with a smirk.

"Hey, you may be my bucho, but I'm also still your senpai." Chitose quipped with a wink "Plus, my grandparents made sure I know how to treat women with respect." He then explained.

"Well, I'm glad you were raised right unlike other people." Homura replied as the two continued walking the hallway as they patrolled the school for a while before heading out.

---

(7/8, Evening)

(Yongen-Jaya, Takemi's Clinic)

Akira had just finished hanging out with the dyed blond (and subsequently unlocking a new power), when Takemi called him out of the blue. She seemed concerned, so he cut the outing short and headed straight to the clinic.

"Hello, Akira-kun." Haruka greeted with a kind smile.

"Good evening, Haruka-chan." Akira replied before seeing the goth doctor leave the consultation room. "Doctor Takemi." He then greeted.

"Hello, Akira." Takemi responded before looking at her apprentice. "Haruka. Please leave. I'm feeling egg rolls today." She soon requested.

"Of course, sensei." Haruka replied as she left. It was about dinner time now.

"I swear, I should give her a bell just in case...like a goddamn ninja..." Takemi grumbled to herself. "Come with me. We need to talk." She soon ordered as she opened the door into the consultation room.

"Is something wrong?" Akira had to ask as he watched the doctor grab some equipment.

"Very." Takemi replied in a matter-of-fact tone. "This is actually about...you know what." She then vaguely started.

"Hm?" Akira hummed out with a raised eyebrow.

"I need details on your activities. How you pull these changes of heart off." Takemi asked as she grabbed a nearby clipboard and pen.

This however caused the boy to raise an eyebrow. "Why?" Akira simply asked.

"I'll answer your questions later. Just give me the details now." The doctor ordered.

The Leader was hesitant but after seeing Tae's eyes, pleading for him to tell. He couldn't say no to a trusted confidant.

One Metaverse lecture that would make Morgana proud, Tae felt that she understood it enough to confirm her fears.

"So you and your teammates never had any check-ups ever since entering this Metaverse? No examinations to ensure you aren't contracting a supernatural disease or a new type of cancer?" Takemi soon questioned with a frown.

"We're fine physically once we exit the Metaverse. It's just exhaustion and even then, a good night's rest is all we usually need." Akira revealed and explained.

"Still, you're heading into a foreign environment nearly daily, exposing yourselves to unknown pathogens and whatnot. So I'm requesting you and your friends to get an examination from me." Takemi stated and ordered. "Current and future members. You could all be ticking time bombs and you won't notice until it's too late. I don't want my guinea pig's friends to drop dead by some sort of ghost disease or soul cancer. Or cause a zombie apocalypse." She then explained, mumbling that last part.

"We don't fight ghosts. I keep telling you that." Akira sighed out. "We fight demons and gods and everything in-between." He then added.

"...Because that's more believable." Takemi deadpanned.

"Wanna see for yourself?" Akira soon offered in a serious tone.

"I'm good, thank you." Takemi replied in a flat tone. She didn't feel like dying today, or ripping her face off. "Just tell your friends. I've already checked you, but everyone else I'm not so sure about. Even then, I'll need to monitor your team's health for the next few years. And you have mentioned you were only here for the year before, so once the time comes I'll have a trusted colleague check on you." She then explained. "This will be all under the table so none of your friends will have to pay. And if you do happen to become injured during your adventures, come straight here or I'll come to you. Given your activities, you can't exactly go to a real hospital, can you?" She soon added.

The Leader blinked. She was doing way more than he expected. "...Thank you." Akira got out in a grateful tone.

"After what you've done for me, it's the least I can do." Tae stated with a kind smile. "I'll keep this from Haruka as well. Although telling her would make my job significantly easier." She then revealed and admitted.

"You better and I'll keep that in mind." Akira responded. "So, is that all?" He then asked as he stood up.

"It is. Make sure your friends visit me as soon as possible." Takemi replied and instructed.

"Right." Akira replied with a nod, but before he could leave...

"Takemi-sensei, I'm back with dinner." Haruka informed while holding a grocery bag.

"Thank you." Takemi got out as she took the bag out of Haruka's hands. "Want an egg roll, my guinea pig?" She soon asked.

Akira in turn blinked to the offer before smiling. "Don't mind if I do." He replied.

"It's been quite a bit since I've eaten..." Haruka suddenly realised as her stomach grumbled. She was getting too used to three meals per day when the average shinobi could live on much less. "Although, those meals mostly consist of bean sprouts thanks to Yomi-chan taking over the kitchen..." She then thought to herself as she remembered most of her meals back at Hebijo.

Why couldn't the school provide them meals instead of making them fend for themselves?

"...Fine. You can have some too." Tae sighed out. "Though you need to keep a regular balance from now on Haruka. No good would come from you passing on me while we're working." She soon advised.

"You sound like I rarely eat sensei." Haruka got out with a pout.

"You don't." Tae countered. "It's been three days and this is the first time I've seen you take a break." She then stated.

"Haruka-chan..." Akira sighed in disapproval after hearing that.

"Oh. I...I guess I got too deep into my personal project." Haruka mumbled out. "Haven't gotten much sleep either..." She then confessed as a yawn escaped her lips.

"After you eat. Go. Home." Takemi soon instructed. "Doctor's orders. Or do I have to strap you down on the bed here?" She soon threatened before frowning. "...Actually, you would probably like it..." She then added.

"Moh, I'm not a masochist sensei..." Haruka countered with a pout. "I'm a sadist." She then mumbled.

"I am too, and I had my fair share of all-nighters but please make sure to not neglect yourself when helping others." Tae confessed and countered.

"Excuse me, what was that first- MMPH!?" Haruka began to ask, only for Tae to stuff an egg roll into her mouth.

Akira meanwhile chuckled in amusement at the friendly interaction between the two.

Though he mentally hoped he would never meet an actual sadist and/or masochist shinobi.

---

(?)

"ACHOO!" A busty short, blonde haired girl sneezed before getting an overly excited expression on her face. "KYUUU~! I think someone is insulting me Ryōbi-chan!" She soon squealed.

SLAM!

"Ryōna! Will you shut up ya damn pig face bitch!" Her more flatter and brown pigtailed twin yelled out, slamming her hands on the desk before turning back to her laptop. She was in charge of the development blog for Bootyland and she did not need the distraction.

"YEESS! YELL AT ME MORE~ I'M SO WORTHLESS, AREN'T I!? WOOF WOOF!" Ryōna replied in excitement while panting and barking like a dog.

Ryōbi in response growled in annoyance as she went back to work. Between this, getting the two into Hebijo, and the planned murder of their beloved older sister's killer, she had her work cut out for her.

Plus, she had to visit the park some day to get a lay of the land. She might need to plan a trip to Tokyo sooner or later.

Now if only her living sister would just stop doing her street performances and making a fool of herself...they're supposed to be fucking shinobi, not fucking comedians...

"Shit! No, we are not fucking comedians..." Ryōbi soon grumbled as she edited the post.

---

(Fast Forward)

"You...met the owners of...Bootyland." Sae got out in disbelief. While Dome Town was purchased through legal means, next to no one knew who did so.

"Not now. Comes later." Akira got out in a nonchalant manner before continuing to tell what happened that day.

(Rewind)

---

(Yongen-Jaya, Leblanc)

"Good evening Boss," Asuka greeted with a salute. "I'm ready to work." She then happily informed.

"At ease." Sojiro chuckled. "I was about to go out and take care of something. You mind cleaning the store after getting dressed?" He then requested.

"Hai! Can I also make some coffee?" Asuka replied and asked.

"Sure, but don't touch any on the middle shelf today." Sojiro instructed.

"Hai, Boss." Asuka replied before frowning. "Wait, why would he request that?" She soon thought as she looked at the middle shelf. They weren't empty, there were still plenty of beans in the jars. She was about to ask the Boss, however he had already left.

Shrugging to herself, she went to work, cleaning the cafe in record time before going on to make a pot of coffee, using the beans on the bottom shelf.

As Asuka made the fresh brew, she practically danced through the whole process, barely slowing down. She felt her Proficiency greatly improving as a result.

When she poured the coffee she made into a cup, Sojiro came back. "Welcome back, Boss. I didn't touch any on the middle shelf. Why did you ask me that, anyways?" Asuka soon asked.

"Ah, it's just that I got some rarer beans recently and didn't want anyone to waste them. Not today at least." Sojiro answered as he sat down.

"Oooh..." Asuka started. "Is it like um...Kopi Luwak?" She then asked.

"Not that rare. Getting that would set you back 16,000 yen a pound, plus making sure it's ethically sourced is too much of a pain in the ass." Sojiro grumbled out.

"Have you tried it before?" Asuka soon asked in a curious tone.

"Yes, and let me tell us that it is overrated. Good but not worth the price." Sojiro admitted as he took a sip of the girl's coffee. "But this is...this is a nice Colombian Narino coffee." He soon informed.

"I really have to stop grabbing random beans..." Asuka mumbled out.

"They are labelled..." Sojiro pointed out.

"There are too many types..." Asuka confessed with a sweatdrop. "What's Columbian Narino anyways?" She soon asked.

"Let me explain," Sojiro started. "The high altitude, rainy climate, and soil of the Columbian mountains creates a strong foundation for their high-quality coffee. Narino coffee has a creamy, viscous body that coats the mouth with fruity and nutty flavors." He then explained in further detail.

"I do taste the nut going down my throat..." Asuka muttered out, nearly causing the cafe owner to cough out his coffee. "Boss?"

"N-Nothing. You're almost there. It has the right amount of sugar and milk, no heating mistakes, but you haven't quite brought out the full flavor of the coffee." Sojiro informed.

Asuka nodded to that as she took another sip. "Hmm...yeah, I can taste it myself. Still not bad though." She soon thought. Maybe it was in the process of turning beans into coffee?

"It is, it's just not quite at my standards. More casual consumers won't notice but I do occasionally get a connoisseur and that's the real challenge." Sojiro stated before frowning. "Your friend hasn't had a lesson in a while, but I can tell he's just about there too." He then muttered out.

"Akira-kun hasn't been getting lessons?" Asuka got out with a frown. "I thought you'd be teaching him more than me."

"The kid's alright, it's just that he hasn't asked in a while. Probably out with his girlfriend or something." Sojiro assumed, unaware that he was helping a redeemed politician make his last speech with his assistance.

"G-Girlfriend!?" Asuka got out in a surprised manner. "Akira-kun has a girlfriend!?" She then questioned.

"Just making an assumption." Sojiro played off in amusement. "He seems like the type to get one pretty easily. And the ladies love someone who can make a good cup of coffee." He then explained.

"Well, the same can be said for sushi too." Asuka soon pointed out.

"Hehehe...I guess." Sojiro chuckled out as the girl worked until his charge came back.

"Hey Asuka." Akira greeted as Morgana popped his head out.

"Hey. I was just about to leave but I can stay for a little bit." Asuka got out.

"You don't have to." Akira assured before pulling the girl closer. "The old deadline's tomorrow." He soon whispered.

"Yep. I heard on the train here that the police are holding a public statement on a former bank president." Asuka admitted in a quiet tone. "Wanna watch it with everyone?" She soon asked.

"I'll bring popcorn." Akira replied with a rebellious smile.

---

(Fast Forward)

"And that's it?" Sae soon asked.

"And that's it." Akira concluded. "I wonder why you're so eager to get to the ninth of July." He then questioned.

"I have...personal reasons." Sae admitted, unable to look the Leader in the eye before blushing.

Akira narrowed his eyes before shrugging his shoulders. He still had a lot to tell.

Because from here on out, this is where things got insane.

---

Save Game...Quit!

Asuka/Yin's Social Stats:

Leadership- Dependable (Level 3)

Knowledge- Expert (Level 3)

Proficiency- Decent (Level 2) → Skilled (Level 3)

Diligence- Strong (Level 3)

Courage- Brave (Level 3)

Homura/Yang's Development Stats:

Maturity- Managed (Level 3)

Knowledge- Expert (Level 3)

Femininity- Tasteful (Level 3)

Elegance- Disciplined (Level 3)

Understanding- Generous (Level 3)

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Original Mementos Requests

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Original Request #4: Take down the Abusive Father

Available: 6/23 after completing Stop the Abusive Older Brother

Target Name: Jirou Asagiri

Message: "Months have passed since Kaname's heart was changed and I thank the Phantom Thieves for that, but for some reason he hasn't turned himself in yet. My friend mentioned that her father might be involved since it turns out he abused him which led to Kaname to abusing my friend. My friend told me her father's name is Jirou Asagirl, please do something about him."

Shadow: Atlas

Location: Chemdah 2

Difficulty Rating: B

Elemental Affinities: Weak Psycho, Null Water

Confuse?: No

Treasure: SP Adhesive 3

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Original Request #20: I need a break…

Available: 7/1, Discovered through Yumi's information network

Target Name: Gonzou Kousugi

Message: "The higher ups in my company keep pushing for longer hours with no overtime pay. People are collapsing around me and I'm barely conscious while I write this. One of my friends just got admitted to the hospital and he's not going to be the last case. Please change the heart of my boss before I die from exhaustion!"

Shadow: Tlaltecuhtli

Location: ?

Difficulty Rating: B

Elemental Affinities: Drain Elec, Repel Curse

Confuse?: No

Treasure: Sleep Gem

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Original Request #28: Free the Fungus

Available: 6/8 through Yumi's Information network

Target Name: Kenji Kawano

Message: "As it turns out, it's just a guy who sells some really good mushrooms for cheap in a Yongen back alley. Pretty popular with poor college students. Too bad he's being extorted by someone who wants him to sell the more illegal kind. I want those mushrooms in my curry, so take that thug's heart!"

Shadow: Albion

Location: ?

Difficulty Rating: C

Elemental Affinities: Null Curse and Gun

Confuse?: No

Treasure: Quality Mushrooms X 5 (Heals all party members)

---

(Persona Tracking)

Joker

Level: 35

Personas: Arsene (Resist: Curse) (Weak: Ice, Bless), Jack Frost (Null: Ice) (Weak: Fire) Thanatos Picaro (Resist: Physical) (Repel: Curse) (Weak: Bless), Sylph (Resists: Wind) (Weak: Electricity, Earth), Black Widow (Null: Psycho) (Weak: Water), Sphinx (Resists: Earth, Fire) (Weak: Curse, Physical)

Persona Trait: Arsene- Last Stand (Allows use of ambush-only skills after Baton Pass), Jack Frost- Ice Lineage (Chance to halve costs of Ice skills), Thanatos Picaro- Iron Heart (Halves costs of SP skills after Baton Pass), Slyph- Wind Bloodline (Decreases SP cost of Wind skills by half), Black Widow- Mouth of Savoring (Increase amount of SP restored to self by 50%), Sphinx- Mighty Gaze (Strengthen multi-target magic attacks by 20%)

Skills: Eiga, Maeiga, Snap, Speed Master, Tetrakarn, Tarukaja, Bufula, Mabufula, Ice Break, Baisudi, Rakunda, Freeze Boost, Door of Hades, Mamudoon, Mudo Boost, One-shot Kill, Adverse Resolve, Enduring Soul, Garula, Magarula, Sukukaja, Regenerate 1, Me Patra, Diarama, Cornered Fang, Dream Needle, Life Drain, Rakukaja, Mamagnara, Maragion, Recarm

Accessory: SP Adhesive 2 (Skill: Invigorate 2)

Yin

Level: 36

Persona: Kaeru (Resist: Earth, Fire) (Weak: Wind, Gun)

Persona Trait: Path of Light (Gain some HP when using support/healing skills)

Skills: Magnara, Mediarama, Sukukaja, Miracle Punch, Mamagnara, Masukukaja, Earth Boost, Makajamaon

Confidant Rank: Rank 6

Accessory: Skanda Belt (Speed Master)

Yang

Level: 36

Persona: Wolverine (Resist: Physical, Gun, Fire, Wind) (Weak: Water, Earth, Bless, Psychokinesis)

Persona Trait: Path of Crimson (Gain some HP when using Physical/Magic skills)

Skills: Agilao, Cleave, Gokuentou, Regenerate 2, Terror Claw, Triple Down, Swift Strike, Fire Boost, Charge

Confidant Rank: Rank 6

Accessory: Tough Belt (Defense Master)

Mona

Level: 35

Persona: Zorro (Resist: Wind) (Weak: Elec)

Persona Trait: Proud Presence (Increases effect of allies' healing skills)

Skills: Garula, Diarama, Patra, Mediarama, Lucky Punch, Magaru, Me Patra, Recarm, Wind Break

Confidant Rank: Rank 4

Accessory: Attachment Pearl (Null Forget)

Skull

Level: 35

Persona: Seiten Taisei (Null: Elec) (Resist: Fire) (Weak: Wind)

Persona Trait: Raging Temper (Might increase allies' physical attacks by 40%)

Skills: Lunge, Zio, Tarukaja, Headbutt, Adverse Resolve, Rampage, Mazio, Bad Beat, Assault Dive, Swift Strike, Shock Boost

Confidant Rank: Rank 10

Accessory: Rakshasa Belt (Attack Master)

Panther

Level: 35

Persona: Carmen (Resist: Fire) (Weak: Ice, Water)

Persona Trait: Mastery of Magic (May decrease SP cost of allies' magic skills)

Skills: Agilao, Dia, Dormina, Tarunda, Maragion, Dekaja, Fire Break, Lullaby, Ambient Aid

Confidant Rank: Rank 5

Accessory: Crimson Necklace (Fire Amp)

Fox

Level: 35

Persona: Goemon (Resists: Ice) (Weak: Fire)

Persona Trait: Scoundrel Eyes (High chance to evade Phys attacks for all allies.)

Skills: Bufula, Giant Slice, Sukukaja, Vicious Strike, Mabufu, Counter, Rising Slash, Dormin Rush, Speed Master, Tempest Slash

Confidant Rank: Rank 5

Accessory: Bold Eyepatch (Effect: +Evade Physical (Low))

Widow

Level: 36

Persona: Fūma (Resists: Ice, Water) (Weak: Fire, Curse)

Persona Trait: Dance of Justice (Chance to trigger a Baton Pass for the next ally when hitting a resistance.)

Skills: Bufula, Aques, Ice Boost, Water Boost, Dazzler, Makajama, Malaques, Snipe

Confidant Rank: Rank 5

Accessory: Engraved Dog Tag (Gun Boost)

Queen

Level: 36

Persona: Johanna

Persona Trait: Gaia Pact (Increase allies' chance of inflicting Burn/Freeze/Shock/Soak by 25%.)

Skills: Freila, Mafrei, Vajra Blast, Diarama, Rakukaja, Makajama, Energy Shower, Flash Bomb, Dekunda, Defense Master

Confidant Rank: Rank 5

Accessory: White Headband R (Life Surge / Endurance +8)

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Whew! Done! Next up is the official end of Kaneshiro's arc and the start of the arc I've been looking forward to.

UknownHero signing off, my friends!