Hey, UknownHero here and welcome to another chapter of Senran Persona. I could've uploaded this chapter yesterday however I needed to sleep. Plus, the next chapter is well on its way already, which means the main plot will ramp back up at Chapter 77.

Dear lord, I wonder what Chapter 100 is going to be.

Just your daily reminder to contribute to the Senran Persona: Ninjas of Hearts TV Tropes page! I can't keep track of our own references, or recognise each one.

To the reviews! To Busty: ...I'll fix it right after this chapter is up. To WX-Lazer: We have already determined what the shinobi's Ultimate Personas will be, although their third tiers...well, we'll follow the convention of what Royal did.

And...that's all the questions I want to answer. Let's go for the final push!

Load Game...Start!

Chapter 75: Hidden Lit Fuses

(7/11, Early Morning)

(Niijima Residence)

Makoto stopped in the middle of eating her breakfast when something hit her.

When was the last time she saw her sister?

She thought about it for a few moments until she realised it had been a good few weeks since, and they didn't exactly part on good terms. And the only time they talked was when she needed her to take care of the apartment.

And all throughout, she did not miss her.

Sure, she was busy with Kaneshiro and she now had friends to numb the pain but...

"It wasn't there..." Makoto muttered as she placed a hand over her heart.

Suddenly, she heard the door open and saw Sae walk in. "I'm home..." She announced before spotting her little sister. After blushing lightly, she forced it down. It was not the time to show weakness.

"Hi, Sis. You look tired." Makoto greeted before wincing. Was that it? After not seeing her own flesh and blood for weeks? "...Is everything OK?" She soon asked, noticing the slightly tired look on her sister's face.

"Don't worry about me. How about you, Makoto? Have you been keeping up with your studies?"

"Yes, of course." Makoto answered before frowning. "Though...what is the point of studying?" She suddenly and hesitantly asked in a curious manner.

"...What do you mean?" Sae however questioned, slightly confused to hear that.

"I was just wondering what will be waiting for me at the end..." Makoto admitted. "Even if I manage to push through tough entrance exams, I'm still thrust into a competitive society."

"What else is there besides success? Don't ask me such childish questions." Sae responded as she narrowed her eyes.

Makoto then looked towards the television with the news still reporting the Phantom Thieves' success. "Isn't this the man the Phantom Thieves sent a calling card out to?" She soon asked while feigning ignorance.

"What you may call calling cards are really just acts of vandalism." Sae stated, glaring at the TV as it showed the latest embarrassment for the law; the Phantom Thieves logo in Shibuya. "Even the police couldn't figure out why. It really...was out of nowhere. This would only make sense if his personality changed...but that would be impossible." She soon added in a frustrated manner.

"Why does it matter? The police still caught him in the end, right?" Makoto however pointed out.

"No, just..." Sae began before pausing and shaking her head. She was delaying, intentionally or not, but it was the perfect time to do so. "Makoto...I need to ask you a question."

"Hm?" Makoto hummed out. "Of course. What is it?"

Sae remained silent, opening her mouth several times and making several expressions before letting out a sigh. "How were you involved with Junya Kaneshiro?" She asked–no, demanded.

Makoto instantly choked and paled in response.

"Don't lie to me, Makoto." Sae quickly shut down any attempts to lie. "I found your phone number on Kaneshiro's phone, and he gave you quite a few calls and messages, conveniently when you were sleeping over with a friend." She soon added. "You were staying at your friend's place to hide out without her mother knowing, weren't you?" She then deducted while narrowing her eyes.

"Crapbaskets..." Makoto thought, mentally kicking herself for not thinking of that detail before she gained an ashamed and depressed expression. "I'm...I'm sorry, Sis, but people in Shujin were getting hurt and I...I couldn't-" She soon started explaining...

"Makoto." Sae interrupted in a serious tone, causing her sister to wince. "I don't want to hear how you got involved with Kaneshiro. Whatever you did, it was reckless and foolhardy and-" She then began to lecture, however...

"I know. I know. My friends beat that into my head. Erm, verbally." Makoto muttered before quickly elevating her worries.

"Do not interrupt me." Sae however ordered, causing her sister to wince again as she then sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "What am I going to do...?" She soon muttered. "I told you not to get into trouble and focus on your studies. This was a police matter." She then reminded and stated.

"But the police couldn't do anything. And if no one helped, who would?" Makoto countered before she could stop herself. However, she clenched her fist and doubled down as the fire from her Awakening returned. "I...I can't just keep my head down and watch people my age have their lives ruined! I mean, you wouldn't have studied law if you didn't want justice to be served right!? You could've done anything else after dad died, so why be a prosecutor!?" She then declared and stated in a serious tone.

"..."

And, as soon as it sparked, the fire in her eyes died. "...I'm sorry..." Makoto meekly apologized. "I've been under a lot of stress due to the recent events..." She then confessed.

"..." And the younger Niijima quickly realised that was not a valid excuse.

"...Sis?" Makoto got out in concern.

"...Kaneshiro said all he did to you was pin you to the ground before these...ninjas or whatever he claims helped you. Is that true?" Sae however questioned in a serious tone.

"Sis, I-" Makoto began.

"Answer. The damn question." Sae soon ordered in an authority filled tone.

And thus, her will of rebellion was smothered. "Yes." Makoto answered as she bowed her head.

"Do you know who saved you?" Sae then questioned.

"No. They disappeared before I could even see who they were." Makoto answered a little too quickly, almost as if she practiced those words.

"...Makoto, you need to promise me two things." Sae soon got out, looking down at her sister.

"Yes, of course." Makoto robotically replied as she nodded.

"One...you should never put yourself in danger ever again. You are to be a model student, not some modern day Robin Hood. If I hear anything that hints to that, I will pull you out of Shujin and keep you here until you're at least 47." Sae ordered, leaving no room for argument.

"I will...ensure that will not happen." Makoto hesitantly responded, knowing fully well that she had already broken and will break that promise in the very near future.

"And two...you will testify at Kaneshiro's trial." Sae then stated.

"W-What?" Makoto got out, stunned for a few seconds before regaining her composure. "I-I mean...I thought the news said that it was an open-and-shut case?" She then added in confusion.

"It is, however I couldn't just tamper with evidence and delete your phone number. They requested you to come." Sae explained as she shook her head. "You may do so anonymously and over the phone. I won't be there at the trial so you may freely speak about what he may have done to you. I...I have too much of a stake in it to be involved." She then admitted. She lost her cool when she reported it, as well as her chances for a promotion.

"Because Kaneshiro killed our father, right?" Makoto guessed in a serious tone.

"...How did you know that?" Sae asked as she narrowed her eyes.

"He...Kaneshiro told me." Makoto hesitantly revealed, knowing it was a touchy subject in general. "Is...Is that it?" She soon questioned.

"...Yes." Sae responded with a sigh.

"I thought I'd be grounded for the summer..." Makoto eventually admitted in a concerned manner.

"I was going to do that along with a bunch of other punishments, but Akechi vouched for you." Sae admitted as she watched her sister wince in response. "He said you had friends and...I was too harsh on you before and I should've apologized earlier. A model student also needs model friends...and needs to cherish the youth they have until the time comes when they become adults." She then added.

"O-Oh..." Makoto got out. She felt...pleasantly surprised. At least that was a step towards apologizing for calling her a pushover...even though that was true before that part of her died. "I'll...have to thank him some time." She then added.

"You should. Because I will not let something like this slide again." Sae replied and warned. "Don't hide something like this from me. I promise you won't get into too much trouble." She then instructed and assured.

"Yeah. Maybe I shouldn't rely on the Phantom Thieves to solve all my problems." Makoto stated with a wry smile.

Sae in turn sighed in response to that statement. "Well...to be honest, I had plans set for a promotion, but no one can take credit for his arrest now with that confession. At least legally." She soon confessed. "...Not that a child would understand." She then grumbled out in frustration.

"Sis..." Makoto thought, wincing at her words. "You should go to sleep." She soon suggested out of concern.

"Yeah...yeah, probably." Sae agreed with her little sister. She had spent way too many sleepless nights at the office so her own bed sounded lovely right now.

Makoto however then sniffed the air and cringed. "After you take a bath." She soon informed as she could literally see putrid green fumes coming off her sister. God, how much did she sweat in her office!?

"Mm." Sae simply responded as she made her way to the bathroom, taking her jacket off on her way there.

Meanwhile, her younger sister watched as she entered the bathroom. "So she was pursuing Kaneshiro..." The advisor thought as she felt the anger bubble in her heart before it settled down. Just because she felt sorry for her, it didn't mean she would excuse every word her sister said. "You've changed sis...and...I don't think I can respect someone who cares more about their career than their own family..." She then admitted as she thought back to her friends and her best friend. "But...don't worry about me anymore. I finally found a place where I belong. I hope you can find yours soon." She then muttered to herself as she got herself ready for the day.

(Fast Forward)

"..." Akira soon went silent as he looked at the prosecutor in disapproval.

"Don't look at me like that." Sae however ordered as she narrowed her eyes.

"You really shoved that into the back of your mind, huh." Akira countered.

"How do you know about this!?" Sae demanded.

"I am very informed on these matters." Akira simply answered.

"Ugh...I need to teach Makoto about privacy..." Sae groaned as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

(Rewind)

(Train)

"Ngh...It's even more packed than usual today..." Morgana complained.

"Something must've happened." Akira deducted in a serious tone. He was thinking about the conversation he had with Akechi earlier. The Phantom Thieves' changes of heart mirroring the mental shutdowns...if the police knew about the Metaverse, they would absolutely pin those incidents on them.

Maybe they should start preventing that from happening...

"Hey, where are Lady Asuka and Lady Homura?" Morgana had to ask. He swore he saw them at the-

CRACK!

"AAAAAAHHHHH!"

"There they are." Akira deadpanned as everyone looked in the direction of the crying man with the broken hand while being told off by the tan skinned girl as the Vice Leader appeared to be apologizing.

"No one will ever learn." Morgana remarked with a sigh of disapproval, obviously knowing what the man tried to do to them.

"Well, at least he didn't lose his jerk-off arm." Akira muttered out just as the news began to be announced.

"Shibuya Crime Ring Reveals All! The leader's confession has led to the arrest of other key members."

"Thanks to Kaneshiro spilling the beans, that organization is falling like a house of cards." Morgana remarked. "Hehehe...We're getting more and more famous!" Ge then giggled.

"Yeah, but that isn't solving the mental shutdowns anytime soon." Akira muttered. "Wanna bet our next target has info on them?" He then asked.

"Who knows?" Morgana replied with a shrug.

"Sudden Rampage? Highway Accident! The driver's death has been confirmed, taking the total count up to four."

"And that explains the stuffed train today..." Akira got out with a frown.

That in turn got the two roommates attention as they stopped what they were doing. "Shit." Homura mumbled under her breath as some of the other passengers restrained the attempted molester.

"We will get you, Black Mask..." Asuka meanwhile promised in a determined manner.

"Hotspots of Tokyo! Come see the summer fireworks show on July 18th!"

"Marine Day..." Homura whispered. "To thank the ocean, right? Maybe we should get sushi..." She then asked and suggested.

"You mean let me make it?" Asuka however offered.

Homura however rubbed her roommate's head in an affectionate yet playful manner. "You don't need to make all our sushi, Sis. Let's have someone else do it for us this time." She replied.

"Like my parents?" Asuka innocently suggested.

"...Well...it's not what I meant but...their shop is in Tokyo right?" Homura soon asked, albeit in an awkward tone.

"MY ARM!" The molester cried out in pain.

"OH DON'T YOU START COMPLAINING, YOU HANDSY RUFFIAN!" Homura however countered with renewed anger.

"Ah, what a wonderful Monday morning." Akira breathed out with a chuckle as he enjoyed the rest of the train ride to school.

(7/11, Morning)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom)

"The Phantom Thieves..." Hiruta began as soon as class started. "In this internet-driven society, every silly little thing gets its five minutes of fame. But just like a fleeting firework, they are destined to be forgotten once summer ends. Now that I think about it, there's an organism that has its own short-lived glimmer." He lectured.

"People from memes?"

"One hit wonders!"

"Indie game developers whose entire livelihood is dependent on their only franchise?"

"Idols?"

"Uh...the-the light bug things! The summer...bright...butts that made my little brother shit himself once!"

"...That's right, fireflies." Hiruta deadpanned before regaining his usual demeanor. "They're probably something akin to magic creatures to you city kids." He then added.

"No, not really." Ann mumbled under her breath.

"Where did he get that idea?" Asuka and Homura both thought with sweatdrops.

"Kurusu-kun." Hiruta suddenly called out, getting the Leader's attention. "You haven't been completely tainted by city life yet, so here's a question. What is the name of the light-producing substance in fireflies?" He soon asked.

"...Luciferin?" Akira guessed.

"Correct. When luciferin combines with oxygen, it undergoes oxidation and emits light." Hiruta praised and informed the students. "A firefly cannot cry, so it burns its body...or so they say. Their light is actually a chemical reaction called a cold light, it doesn't produce heat like fire." He then added.

"I guess not all laws of thermodynamics apply, huh." Homura remarked.

"Is that the right law, Homu-nee?" Asuka however questioned before checking her notes.

"Now, I'm sure you noticed, luciferin contains the word lucifer. It's often associated with the biblical devil, but just like your names it has a meaning behind it..." Hiruta continued before looking around the room only to see Asuka flipping through her notes. "Shirokage-chan, please pay attention. Your given name means flying bird, correct? Well, do you know what lucifer means?" He soon asked.

"Uh...that's Latin right?" Asuka whispered to herself as she delved deep into her Knowledge.

Absolving dark

Light-bearing

White shadow

"Light-bearing." Asuka soon answered with a smile. Her given name really did suit her.

"Correct." Hiruta got out, clapping for the girl. "It's a heroic name for a devil isn't it. A prideful entity that rebelled, who refused to bow down to mankind upon its creation, disagreed with God's plan of salvation, holding onto his sinful pride and aspired to overthrow his creator and become ruler of Heaven himself. Almost like the Phantom Thieves, huh? Ah, I'm talking about them again. Can't seem to escape them it seems." He soon informed and stated.

"We don't want to rule the world..." Asuka whispered out in an upset and offended manner.

"Now that I think about it, there's a fireworks show next week." Hiruta remembered. "It may not be a bad idea to go see them. However, don't become so blinded by the far-off lights that you can't see the exams in front of you." He then reminded and advised.

"You all better study hard. We can't afford anyone to take make-up classes over the summer." Morgana encouraged as the day went on.

(7/11, Afternoon)

(Shujin Academy, Gymnasium)

As the day went on, all the students were gathered in the auditorium where the principal was standing on the stage with a microphone on a stand.

"Attention, students! I have an announcement to make before you all start your final exams tomorrow and get a well-deserved break from school life." The Principal announced.

"Wait, I thought exams were on Wednesday!?" Ryuji whispered in a panic, only to be elbowed in the gut. "Ow!" He yelped out.

"Exams are on Wednesday." Makoto corrected in a flat tone.

"Ever since that...tragic incident back in April, many of you have voiced concerns that I could not bear to ignore." The Principal continued in a regretful (and somewhat believable) tone.

"And it only took you three months. So glad you care this deeply about the students." Sora sarcastically got out as he rolled his eyes.

"I wonder why we're having this assembly to begin with?" Asuka meanwhile asked.

"Besides the usual pretentious bullcrap and salvaging his floundering rep?" Homura quipped.

"Or just being a bastard?" Ryuji quipped as well.

"Now now, we can keep insulting the idiot later." Makoto sighed out. "Maybe he finally got someone who can help the school." She then guessed, although she wasn't getting her hopes up.

"Or make it worse. That's way more likely." Akira muttered.

"Now as many of you already know, Mr. Kamoshida has been discharged from our facility and is now facing charges for his crimes against many of our students." The Principal continued on. "As such, many of our sports programs have been put on hold and thus our more athletic students have been slacking off, for lack of a better term. So we've sent out requests to anyone who is willing to take over for Mr. Kamoshida." He then revealed.

"This is coming from the fatass that cancelled a bunch of sport clubs in the first place to suck up to the asshole's ass!" One student however remarked loudly in annoyance from within the crowd, causing other students to mutter and grumble in agreement.

"That's the understatement of the century." Suzuka muttered as she rolled her eyes.

"Hey! Quiet down and let the principal speak!" Keiichiro meanwhile ordered just as loudly.

"Thank you. Now before I was so rudely interrupted, after the sudden departure of Yamada-sensei," The principal continued.

"Yamauchi." Kawakami corrected as she shook her head.

"I requested several other former athletes to replace Mr. Kamoshida as the PE Teacher for our students." Principal Kobayakawa continued while sweating a bit. "Unfortunately, many of them turned down the offer for some...unknown reasons." He then informed.

"Gee, I wonder why?" The Thieves all thought in sarcastic manners.

"However, today, we have a promising young woman ready to take over the empty position. The floor is yours, Ikki-sensei." Kobayakawa soon instructed someone from just off stage.

"Wait, he...he actually got a new gym teacher for us..." Makoto muttered while narrowing her eyes at the overweight man.

"And a woman too..." Ann added with a frown.

"God, he makes it sound like she was his last choice." Ryuji grumbled. "What's wrong with a chick running sports shit?" He then asked.

"I think we're not looking at the main issue here." Asuka however pointed out.

"So instead of hiring a counsellor or a therapist, which is way overdue by three months or even a couple years, he hired a new PE Teacher." Akira deadpanned. "I don't think I can physically express how exasperated I'm feeling right now other than a slow clap that would take the rest of the school year to finish. And I'd rather use my hands to throttle him into getting one." He then remarked.

"She better be good or else someone's fat spine is getting ripped out." Homura growled, about this close to just charging into his office and setting his stuff on fire.

There were whispers and murmurs among the students as a woman walked onto the stage. She had dirty blonde hair that reached down, red eyes, a beauty mark under her left eye, a white buttoned collar shirt with the top undone to show off her cleavage, blue jeans pants, sneakers and a watch on her left wrist.

SHATTER!

And suddenly, Asuka made some sort of inhuman noise not too dissimilar to a monkey deepthroating a toad.

The dirty blonde haired woman then walked to the microphone and tapped on it a bit. "My name is Daidōji Ikki and from this day forth, I will be Shujin Academy's new physical education teacher." She soon introduced herself.

Instantly, everyone felt her intimidating aura and simultaneously shivered (except one floofy haired heiress). They were beginning to suspect Principal Shitballs had hired a female Kamoshida, except...quite a few boys and girls wouldn't mind being abused by her feet...

"...Wow." Akira breathed out. "Not what I was expecting." He soon admitted.

"And I don't think the teachers did either..." Ann noticed, seeing her homeroom teacher looking severely confused. Wasn't there supposed to be a meeting about this?

Makoto meanwhile sighed in response as she rubbed the bridge of her nose. "He must've pulled this at the last second as a desperate attempt to save face...again..." She muttered for only the group to hear.

"Sweet shit..." Ryuji mumbled as he stared at the insanely beautiful woman. "She also has ninja boobs..." He offhandedly and quietly got out.

"...And she smells like death..." Morgana noticed and warned while narrowing his eyes.

"Ikki-san here will also be running a free sports program over the summer so please come and visit when you have the time." Kobayakawa informed. However, he quickly noticed that nearly every student was staring at Ikki-sensei's...rather sizable bust and barely paying attention to him. "...There's also free snacks." He quickly added.

That in turn caused a majority of the students to sweatdrop to that bit.

"...Free snacks...?" Akira meanwhile got out in an interested manner.

"Really, Akira?" Ann deadpanned.

"And besides volleyball and track, I will be in charge of every other sports related activity as well. So, I will be bringing back every club and sport that was originally cancelled due to Kamoshida's...personal decisions." Daidōji then revealed, causing the principal to pale.

That in turn got all the students attention as they looked at the new gym teacher.

"She's bringing all the sports clubs back!?"

"Eh...That's cool and all, but I'm still not gonna come."

"But free snacks, dude!"

"...So we're getting esports too?"

"...What is that?" Daidōji whispered to herself before shrugging. "Um...yes. That...That too." She soon stated.

"That doesn't seem good for the school budget..." Akira muttered out. "Gaming PCs go for a couple hundred thousand each..." He then added.

"She's making the principal suffer though." Homura however pointed out in amusement. "Come on heart attack! We are waiting and willing for the hospitalization! Please let this lady send you to the hospital." She mentally hoped.

"I don't even think she's aware of what she's doing." Makoto muttered out. "I really hope she'll do a good job..." She then admitted.

"Well, with Yamauchi out of the picture, I'm sure she'll do just fine." Ryuji stated. "She seems pretty fit too, more than Kamoshida." He then added.

"I-Ikki-san, I-I don't think it would be possible to bring back every-" Kobayakwa started, however...

Grip!

Suddenly, the overweighted man's head was grabbed as the blonde looked at him. "I'll make it work." Daidōji bluntly stated.

"B-But-" Kobayakawa started in a panic.

Squeeze!

"I will. Make it. Work. Kobayakawa-san." Daidōji however responded as she continued squeezing the man's head. "I will turn this school into a shining example of what other schools strive to be my way! And thus, I will ensure that you will all graduate strong enough to survive the world outside. It is a cruel and harsh mistress, but that is simply today's reality. Tomorrow's reality will be different, students of Shujin. We teachers are guiding lights in the darkness of today, so study hard over the summer and train your bodies and minds until you can't anymore. Know your limits so you can push it farther the next time around! Every step you take is one that will make you better. Do not fool yourselves that when you become adults you can stop growing. We grow and learn every day even when we have grey hair and wrinkly skin. So never give up, or else you'll never make it past twenty-one!"

Meanwhile, students continued muttering as they listened to both the speech as well as watched the interaction between the new teacher and the principal.

"Whoa, Ikki-sensei's so cool..."

"What a babe..."

"Isn't what she's doing count as physical assault?"

"Maybe, but who cares for the principal though?"

"Yeah, you're right about that."

"Stay in the kitchen- BARGH!"

"Whoops. My fist slipped into your stomach. How unlucky."

"Dude...this chick is effin' scary." Ryuji whispered out with widened eyes.

"And poetic." Ann admitted. "She completely has the principal under her thumb too." She then added.

"Yeah..." Makoto got out. "But why do I get the feeling she's just talking without thinking...?" She then asked.

"I think Asuka knows that." Akira replied as she watched one of the bravest and strongest women he knew try to melt into the crowd. Unsuccessfully, considering the new gym teacher was staring directly at her. "You know her, Asuka?" He then asked.

"Ah...!" Asuka quietly squealed out.

"I'll take that as a yes." Akira responded before the Thieves looked directly back at the new teacher.

And thus, the Thieves began to realise their school year was about to get a whole lot more complicated.

(7/11, After School)

(Practice Building 2F, PE Faculty Office)

As soon as the assembly ended, the Thieves silently agreed to have a Phantom Thieves meeting.

"Who the hell is she!?" Ryuji exclaimed as the Leader updated their Kosei members on the situation.

"Daidōji-senpai." Asuka revealed in a somewhat hollow tone. "I never mentioned her, did I?" She soon assumed.

"I don't know! It's a little hard to remember while there's someone around now who could kill us all at the flick of her toe!" Ryuji called out. Luckily, all his yelling was drowned out by the excited gossip of students. "Did she go to your old school?" He then asked.

"Um...actually she's still a third year last time I checked. By choice." Asuka answered as she poked her fingers together.

That in turn confused the group as a whole. "Uh...what do you mean by choice Sis? You mean she fails on purpose?" Homura soon asked.

"A-All I heard was that she refused to graduate...she's a legend among legends back at Hanzō Academy." Asuka soon revealed.

"And by refusing to graduate, she continued to get stronger by constantly training..." Makoto deducted, getting a nod in response from the Vice Leader.

"What makes her a legend?" Akira had to ask.

"Her mere existence was somewhat of a myth to the current shinobi at Hanzō Academy..." Asuka soon revealed. "I only know she's real because she visits between her training trips from all over the world, just trying to fight the biggest and meanest creatures and beat them." She then explained. "...She's also banned from most zoos in Japan...or all of them now..." She then muttered under her breath

That in turn caused the rest of the group to sweatdrop to hear that. "Good to see the usual shinobi eccentricity is there..." Ann deadpanned.

"And...now she's your new gym teacher." Morgana spoke up. "Do you know why she's here?" He soon asked.

"I-I mean...I should've gotten a call from Jii-chan or Kiriya-sensei to warn me..." Asuka mumbled out as she pulled out her phone to check if she had gotten a call. "Nothing from either of them." She then muttered.

"Well, it's too late now. She's here and right through that door expecting you." Akira stated as he jerked his thumb over to the faculty office. "You need us as back up, Asuka?" He soon asked in a serious tone.

"It...might not end in a fight." Asuka muttered out before shaking her head.

"I don't believe that." Homura however stated while crossing her arms over her chest. "Me and Akira will be standing outside the door. If you think you're in danger, signal us."

Asuka in response nodded as she readied herself. "Ok, what's the signal?" She replied and asked.

"An insult towards the principal." Akira and Homura soon responded at the same time.

"Too common." Makoto however pointed out.

"Calling her fat?" Ryuji soon suggested, getting glares from the other girls in response.

"I don't want to get murdered outside of a Shinobi Kekkai." Asuka meekly got out in a fear filled manner.

"Banana bread?" Ann soon suggested.

"No." Homura sighed out. This was gonna need time they did not have.

"I could always sneak in there." Morgana offered.

"She throws kunai at long leg spiders with 100% accuracy." Asuka warned with a wince as the others looked at her in disbelief.

"Just...we'll know when you're in trouble." Akira soon decided as his eyes flashed gold. "Ready?" He then asked.

Asuka once more nodded to that as her friends gained some distance before she knocked on the door. "H-Hello? Is anyone there?" She soon called out.

"Given that you and your friends have been standing out there for the past ten minutes, I assume you already know I'm here." Daidōji replied in an unamused manner.

Asuka, once again, squeaked like a dying dolphin.

"Please. Come in alone." The gym teacher requested as the door opened, causing the civilian Thieves to step back.

"That is effin' scary and I don't know why!" Ryuji exclaimed.

"I can just see the dramatic tension..." Akira muttered out.

"As I thought, she's dangerous." Morgana once more stated while narrowing his eyes.

Asuka looked towards her friends, who only gave her thumbs-ups in response, causing her to take in a deep breath as she entered the faculty office and closed the door behind her. "Pardon the intrusion." She mumbled out.

"Asuka." Daidōji greeted from her seat. She was going through various papers that the Vice Leader was sure were about sports as she spun around to look at her. "Glad you finally came to see me." She then added.

"The assembly ended ten minutes ago." Asuka however pointed out.

"Thirteen minutes. I won't tolerate such tardiness once Physical Education class begins next semester." Daidōji corrected and informed in a serious tone.

"Dai- Shit, sorry! I mean, Ikki-sensei!" Asuka cried out as she bowed frantically, not noticing her phone vibrate in her pocket.

"Calm down." Daidōji however ordered as she raised a hand. "This school is a lot messier than the pictures." She soon remarked, her eyes going over a spot in the room, which looked like someone was murdered here.

"Yeah, that's because the Phantom...Thieves...did it..." Asuka hesitantly muttered, shifting her eyes away from her senpai and teacher.

"As it was stated in the report and in the news." Daidōji added before fully studying the girl. "...You seem well." She then stated.

"Y-Yeah. Thanks, um, school's been- I mean, living in the city has been fun." Asuka awkwardly chuckled as she rubbed the back of her head.

"I meant as a person." Daidōji however revealed. "You seem more alive now." She then declared with a nod of approval.

"Eh?" Asuka got out, confused by that statement.

"You used to be so scared...so unsure of yourself as a shinobi." Daidoji soon stated.

"Well...times have changed." Asuka awkwardly pointed out.

"But now," Daidōji started as she pulled out something from her bag. "You definitely gained more confidence in yourself. Clever move, getting yourself a cover job." She then praised.

Asuka's eyes immediately widened to what she saw. A fashion magazine she had modeled in. "Y-You saw one of my photos?" She squeaked out with a blush on her face.

"In passing." Daidōji replied. "You're growing into a fine shinobi, Asuka. You still have a long way to go though, so don't forget you are not invincible." She then advised.

To that, Asuka blushed as she began poking the tips of her fingers together. "...Am I in trouble?" She soon asked. "I-I mean...I'm making progress but it is going to take the rest of the year but the looks of it..." She then stated before trailing off.

"No. Not at all. Slow and steady wins the race." Daidōji assured. "It's just that the situation has been escalating here. You'll need help."

"S-So why not send Ikaruga-chan? Or Katsu-nee?" Asuka soon asked as she began to imagine either of the two dressed in the Shujin Uniform.

"They're busy holding down the fort at Hanzō. They'll come with the others when the mission will require their help." Daidōji answered. At least, that was what Kiriya told her in the short time she was at Hanzō Academy.

"But what help do I need from you?" Asuka questioned. "I'm doing fine, I promise I am." She then assured.

"I am here to gain a foothold in Tokyo for Good Shinobis since Tokyo is usually known as an Evil Shinobi hotspot. However, they've been quiet as of late." Daidōji revealed while narrowing her eyes. "Recent rumors have been popping up saying that most Evil Shinobis have been ordered to stay away from Tokyo for some reason or another. And this has been occurring for two years now..." She then informed.

"Eh?" Asuka got out, confused about learning that. "Really?" She then asked as she thought of her roommate. "But Homu-nee..." She thought before trailing off as she got into a thinking position.

"Yes. We're expecting Tokyo to become a shinobi war zone in the coming months so we need to be prepared." Daidōji soon warned.

"Huh!?" Asuka got out with widened eyes. "B-But I haven't encountered any other shinobi so far!" She then revealed, biting the inside of her cheek.

"You will." Daidōji however stated. "All because of the Phantom Thieves." She then added.

"What do you mean by that?" Asuka soon asked.

"Changing hearts isn't exactly common." Daidōji reminded in a serious tone. "To be able to brainwash anyone into confessing their crimes while leaving no evidence behind...it cannot remain in the hands of wild rebels. They need control, discipline." She then explained.

"Recruitment?" Asuka soon guessed.

"Possibly. But if that's not an option..." Daidōji muttered out with a frown. "However, the Evil Shinobi are likely after them too for similar reasons. We need to make them our allies first before anyone else." She soon stated. "That's why I'm here at Shujin. The Phantom Thieves have to be students here. They will need us soon enough." She then revealed.

"...And they'll need to be ready to fight." Asuka concluded.

"Correct." Daidōji replied with a nod.

"Are there any other Good Shinobi coming here from different academies?" Asuka soon asked.

"Not that I am aware of." Daidōji responded while shaking her head. "However, I am not ruling out the possibility of some new transfers coming to Shujin in the coming months. Watch your back out there." She then stated and advised.

"I will." Asuka promised with a nod. "Do I have to look out for the Phantom Thieves as well? Are they related to my mission here?" She then asked.

"No, we have determined that the mental shutdowns and psychotic breakdowns are caused by a separate entity, so you should only worry about stopping them." Daidōji responded and explained. "Do not let my mission interfere with yours." She then ordered.

"Hai." Asuka responded in a serious tone with a nod. "I won't let you down, Ikki-sensei." She then declared.

"Just call me Daidōji when we are alone. I wish for you to be comfortable around me. No use hiding behind masks." The new gym teacher soon requested and explained.

"Y-Yeah..." Asuka hesitantly replied before a thought came to mind. "Have...you been a gym teacher before?" She soon asked in a curious tone.

"Indeed I have." Daidōji responded in a nonchalant manner.

This in turn caused Asuka to blink. "I didn't know that." She got out in a surprised manner.

The new teacher however chuckled in amusement. "There's a lot you don't know about me." Daidoji vaguely stated. "For example, I can play a mean triangle." She soon revealed in a proud manner.

That in turn almost caused Asuka to facefault. "You...live a rather interesting life." She awkwardly got out.

"I try to. Actually, I need to leave soon." Daidoji replied and informed.

"A-Already!?" Asuka got out, surprised to learn that.

"I have some...obligations I need to attend to. I should be back in a week after summer break begins." Daidōji vaguely revealed while twirling a strand of her hair.

"I-I see." Asuka responded with a nod. "So um...you're actually gonna bring all the clubs back that Kamoshida shut down just for his volleyball team?" She soon asked to change the subject.

"...It was really an impulse decision, but I'll try." Daidōji admitted with a shrug. "Besides, I've done some recon and...a lot of students need this. That principal however...he seems to care more about his reputation more than the students' wellbeing." She then declared in disapproval.

"Yeah, I...Uh, I should've seen that earlier..." Asuka admitted in an ashamed manner.

"Even a shinobi can be tricked, even by civilians. Now, why don't you introduce the friends standing outside the door right now?" Daidōji requested as she snapped her fingers, taking down the Shinobi Kekkai.

"Eh!?" Asuka exclaimed before checking her phone, only to see that indeed the MetaNav had been set off. "But-" She then started.

"You've underestimated your opponent. Please concede." Daidōji declared, causing the Vice Leader to drop her head in defeat.

The Vice Leader then looked towards the door. "...Homu-nee? Akira-kun? Please come in." Asuka soon requested.

"WE'RE COMING, SIS!" Homura declared.

"Wait, DON'T KICK DOWN THE-" Akira began, however...

WHOOSH! Grip!

"Slow." Daidōji plainly stated, holding onto the tan skinned girl's outstretched leg. She had opened the door and caught her before she could do any damage.

"!?" Homura gasped before she tried to get her leg out of the gym teacher's grip. "Let go!" She got out in anger.

"Homura, put down your leg because you're kinda giving everyone a show." Akira deadpanned.

"Eh?" Homura got out before realising her crimson panties were in full view. "Ah!" She then yelped as she tried to pull her skirt down.

"You need to work on your stance." Daidōji began as she released the girl's leg. "I assume you are the Disciplinary Head I've heard about. Glad to meet you, however if your first impression was to kick down my door, I'm afraid you still need work." She soon commented as the girl blushed. "However, I do find your commitment to your friends commendable." She then confessed in approval.

"Th-Thank you. I-I'm Homura Shinkukage. Her roommate." Homura responded. "Holy crap I can feel the aura she's emitting when she's not even trying! It's like I'm being stared down by Suzune-sensei!" She thought in a panic.

"Nice to meet you." Daidōji replied before shaking her hand.

"Aaaahhh...!" Homura squeaked as her hand was crushed before the new gym teacher let her go. "Ow..." She then groaned.

"Ah, my apologies." The new gym teacher apologized. "My strength sometimes does usually make others quite nervous." She then admitted.

"I think you damaged my nerves..." Homura winced out as she tried to get feeling back into her hand.

"Give it a few seconds." Daidōjii advised in a casual manner.

"And I'm her classmate Ikki-sensei." Akira soon started as he bowed to the woman. "Akira Kurusu." He then introduced himself in a polite manner.

"Yes. I've heard of you. The principal made sure to single you out during my orientation." Daidōjii admitted as she frowned at the boy. "But...if you're friends with Asuka-san, then those rumors of your delinquency are quite baseless." She then stated.

"You have no idea..." Akira grumbled under his breath.

Daidōjii then looked at the boy as though she was examining him. "Hm, well, I'll still be keeping an eye on you. You have that record for a reason." She soon informed. "...Ah, I wasn't supposed to say anything about that." She then muttered in an awkward manner.

"It's an open secret." Akira sighed out as he rolled his eyes.

"Daidōji-senpai, he-" Asuka began, only to be stopped by Akira.

"No, it's fine Asuka." Akira stated. "My word won't be enough. I get the feeling actions speak more for you." He then added.

"You're quite attentive then."

"Well, I have to take responsibility for all my actions, even ones I can't control." Akira replied in a serious tone while adjusting his glasses. "I'll be in your care, Ikki-sensei." He then got out in a well mannered tone.

Daidōji blinked as memories from many years ago were brought back to the forefront of her mind. "He said the exact same thing..." She muttered in a nostalgic manner.

"Huh?" Akira got out in a dim manner.

"I-I must apologize, you just...you remind me of someone." Daidōjii awkwardly got out and explained.

"Hm?" The two Leaders and the tan skinned girl got out in confusion after hearing that.

"A...great friend of mine." Daidōji explained with a nostalgic smile on her face. "He helped me out quite a bit a few years back and made me into the person I am today." She then added.

"Huh. I'd like to meet him someday, then." Akira admitted.

"I'm sure you will, Kurusu-san." Daidōji replied with a smile. "Now, I'll see you three tomorrow. Everyone's schedules are being revised so physical education is included again after summer break." She then informed.

"Okay, bye!" Asuka happily replied before the three left the office.

"...He's like Leader..." Daidōj muttered as she watched the three leave her office. "I guess Rin-senpai was right. Persona-users are attracted to one another..." She soon whispered to herself. "Show me what you plan to do next...Phantom Thieves." She then added in her head with a smirk as she got to work making preparations.

Things are gonna get interesting from now on.

Meanwhile, outside the office, the three thieves were feeling...quite confident after the meeting.

"...All things considered, that went well." Homura got out, looking pleasantly surprised. "And I don't mean it sarcastically this time!" She then cheered.

"That is an achievement in its own right." Akira remarked. "So...what do we do now?" He soon asked.

"Study. Exams start the day after tomorrow." Morgana answered as he popped his head out of the bag.

"Sounds alright for me. For me I'm gonna do my usual stuff with my committee and then go to the library to study." Homura replied with a nod.

"I think I'll go back home and check if all our equipment needs to be replaced." Asuka spoke up as she hefted her bag. "I'll text Akira-kun if it does." She then informed.

This in turn caused the Leader to nod. "And I need to take care of some Phantom Thief stuff for the next target." Akira got out. "If you guys need help or just want to hang out, give me a call. Things are gonna get busy soon." He then stated.

"No rest for the wicked." Asuka soon stated.

Nodding once more, the three separated and went off to do as they planned.

(Library)

After finishing up her paperwork for the day, Homura had decided to go to the library for a bit to get some studying done for a little bit, feeling as though her committee members would be fine for at least a little while.

She soon started browsing through some of the books, wondering which one to start studying on first. "Ok Homura, what do you need to focus on most at the moment..." Homura thought to herself, a hand out to try and feel for which topic she should choose.

Just as she was too busy finding the topic she should study on, she wasn't paying attention to where she was going and bumped into someone, causing both of them to fall backward.

THUD! THUD!

"Ah, my apologies." Homura apologized, regaining her balance with ease.

"No, it was my fault. I wasn't paying attention." A familiar voice apologized back, revealed to be Ryoga.

"Ah, good afternoon Ryoga-san." Homura greeted as the two got to their feet.

"Back at you, Shinkukage-san." Ryoga greeted back as they dusted themselves off, though he had to look away because he saw her panties when they fell but didn't say anything. "I'm guessing you came to the library to do some studying?" He then assumed.

"Indeed I have." Homura replied with a nod.

"Same here. I was trying to figure out what to study for, but I couldn't find the right topic." Ryoga explained to her.

"Same here." Homura got out with a smile. "I'm hoping to improve for the exams coming up." She then added as the two then got an assortment of different topic books and sat themselves down.

"Oh yeah, those are coming up soon. Not too far from now." Ryoga nodded.

"Exactly." Homura replied in confirmation.

"In that case, you want to study together? It'll be easier for both of us to help each other out while we're getting ready for the exams." Ryoga suggested to her.

Homura however giggled in response. "I was actually about to suggest the same thing." She soon confessed in amusement. "I guess great minds think alike huh?" She then added.

"Yeah, I guess so. Talk about a weird coincidence." Ryoga chuckled in response.

"Yup." Homura replied as she opened her book. "In any case, we should start reviewing a bit if we want to pass our exams." She then added.

"Ok, sounds like a plan." Ryoga nodded as he opened his book. "How about you start first?" He suggested to her.

"Sure." Homura replied as the two picked their subject and began.

They went back and forth with each subject they didn't know and it greatly benefited both of them.

Homura meanwhile feeling as though her Knowledge was greatly improving as a result of this study session.

And she was also feeling happy to help one of her committee members in topics he had some trouble with and he helped her in subjects she didn't know.

"I must say Ryoga-san, your pretty smart in some of these topics." Homura soon complimented.

"Thanks, I have been studying most of them since last year." Ryoga replied. "But there were also some topics that I couldn't understand about. But I didn't really know anyone who could help me, so I just did what I could on each exam and hope for the best." He then explained.

"Since you want to graduate from Shujin right?" Homura guessed.

"Yeah, since I plan on graduating from Shujin." Ryoga answered with a nod. "So far, that has worked out for me and I've been studying as much as I can for the next exam." He then added.

"You're pretty diligent huh?" Homura soon asked, impressed by his determination.

"Yeah, but graduating isn't my only reason. I'm also planning on getting Shujin back to its former glory." Ryoga replied as he nodded. "It's not going to be easy, but if I can just make it through to my last year, then I can get this school back to where it once was." He then explained.

"You really care about this school..." Homura soon pointed out.

"Yeah, it was once part of my family." Ryoga replied as he nodded again. "Before it became what it is now, it was a place where students felt welcomed and safe. Sure there were some bad times, but what school didn't at that time. But by the time we get to where we are now, things really started to change for the worse." He then concluded as he lowered his head.

This caused the tan skinned girl's eyes to widen to that reveal. "So Shujin's your legacy..." Homura soon stated in disbelief. "Your supposed to own this place?" She then got out.

"That's right. I don't want it to fall to ruin like it has been for some time now." Ryoga replied with a nod.

"Basically because of Kobayakawa right?" Homura guessed.

"Not just him, but also the person who was supposed to be funding this school." Ryoga responded with a nod as he clutched his fist. "He's the real reason why Shujin has become what it is now when Kobayakawa was appointed as principal." He then revealed.

That in turn got the girl's attention. "Do you know who that is?" Homura soon asked.

"No, I don't really know him. I never even met him directly." Ryoga answered in a despondent tone while shaking his head.

"I see..." Homura responded, a bit disappointed to hear that.

"Sorry, guess I wasn't much help on that if I don't even know the person who was supposed to be funding our school." Ryoga got out in depression.

"It isn't your fault, it's all Principal Lard Bod and his benefactor's fault." Homura however reassured.

"Maybe, but I also feel like I'm failing my family who first built the school." Ryoga sighed out. "I just don't know what to do if this falls into ruin..." He then confessed. lays his head on his hands and covers his face.

"Ryoga-san..." Homura got out, feeling bad for her committee member and seeing him in the state he was in.

"I'm really failing my ancestors...I wonder what he'll say if he saw the school in this state...?" Ryoga got out and wondered as his depression only got worse.

To that, Homura went over and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sure they wouldn't blame you for what happened to this school." She then got out in reassurance. "I mean why would they? What happened is out of your control." She then asked and pointed out.

"Maybe, but I'm still responsible for the reputation of this school." Ryoga soon got out. "If I don't maintain it, then it'll just be known as a prison. Kinda fitting when you think about it." He then added.

"Since that's what it is thanks to Chubby McChubberson." Homura then reminded as she narrowed his eyes. "That man doesn't even care about anything except his own reputation." She soon declared.

"But what can I do? I've done all I can and it wasn't enough." Ryoga soon asked as looked up at her. "I don't know if I can get it back to how it once was..." He then confessed.

"Then you just have to keep going." Homura soon stated. "Keep doing everything you can to make it so you can get Shujin Academy back and get back to its proper state." She then encouraged.

"You really think I can? Can I really get Shujin Academy back to its former glory?" Ryoga asked in hope.

Homura simply nodded in response with a reassuring smile.

Ryoga in response then looked around at the other students who all seemed to be happy, thanks to the Committee. So to make sure to keep that happiness going, he took a deep breath and readied himself for whatever comes his way.

The tan skinned girl meanwhile felt as though her bond with her committee member was improving much more since she learned more about him and his connection to the school

RANK UP! DEVIL RANK 2!

"Thanks for your words of encouragement. I really needed it." Ryoga soon got out as he smiled "And you're right, I need to keep going so that I can get our school back and return it to how it once was." He then added with confidence.

"Right, and the only way to do that is to keep studying and making sure this school stays safe." Homura replied with a nod as she headed back to her seat. "So let's do a little bit more studying before heading out to patrol for a bit." She then instructed with a playful wink.

"Yeah, sounds like a plan. We're going to need to be ready for our exams coming up." Ryoga responded with a nod of agreement as he moved his chair closer to the table and resumed their studies.

As such, the two continued to focus on their work, time passing by as they did as decided before going out and doing their duties before heading out.

(Classroom Building 2F)

However as the tan skinned girl rounded the corner to make her way to the entrance, she noticed Emica struggling to climb up the stairs with her only good arm in an awkward position.

"Sato-san?" Homura muttered in concern as she went to approach her. "Is...everything alright?" She hesitantly asked.

"Oh, Shinkukage-san. I didn't notice you coming." Emica responded as she turned to the committee head. "And yeah, everything's fine. Just need to take it slow and steady." She then answered.

"Are you sure? You look like you could use some help." Homura however pointed out.

"No, I got this. Just need to take my time." Emica reassured "Now one foot in front of the other..." She muttered to herself as she slowly climbed up the stairs.

Homura meanwhile winced at the sight of this. "Yeah no..." She thought in a blunt manner as she went over and got her committee member's good arm over her shoulders.

"Huh? What are you doing, Shinkukage-san?" Emica asked in confusion at the gesture.

"Helping you out." Homura simply answered. "I can tell you would be against having some help, but I want to." She then explained.

"But you don't really have to. I can climb up the stairs myself." Emica protested. "I'm not some defenseless girl, I can handle myself." She then stated.

"Even so, I want to." Homura however replied with a smile.

Emica in turn sighed in defeat. "Fine, you win. I'll take you up on your offer." She replied, though she was smiling on the inside.

Homura simply smiled as she assisted her committee member. "So, I think you can tell me what exactly happened to you?" She soon asked.

"...I...don't want to talk about what happened..." Emica answered in a downtrodden tone.

"Ah." Homura got out before nodding.

"It's...not really something I can say to anyone..." Emica explained to her despondently. "I'm just not sure if they'll believe me or not..." She then muttered.

"Hm? Homura hummed out in a concerned yet curious manner.

(Classroom Building 3F)

The girls soon enough reached the 3rd floor where the committee member took her arm off from the head's shoulders.

"Thank you, Shinkukage-san. I honestly couldn't have made it up here without your help." Emica got out as she bowed in appreciation. "Usually I'm pretty slow because I have to climb up or down the stairs, but you really helped me out this time." She soon confessed.

"Well like I said, I just want to help in any way I can." Homura reminded as the two walked the halls. "Guessing Kobayakawa doesn't really do anything to help?" She then got out.

"No, he really doesn't. Not even any of the other students." Emica answered in a sour tone. "I constantly asked anyone for help, but they've said that they couldn't do it because they'll be late for class or just some other bullshit excuse." She then explained.

Homura however sighed in annoyance at learning that. "Everyone always seems to be out for themselves..." She muttered in disapproval. "...Just like how I used to be..." She meanwhile thought to herself, feeling disgusted to think about how she used to be in the past.

"But ever since I joined the committee, some of the other members have actually helped me." Emica revealed with a slight smile. "Yesterday, I had Kagurazaka-kun help me in the morning and even Kamijo-san in the afternoon. Even though I told them that they didn't have to, they said that because they wanted to because we're on the same team. You couldn't believe how happy I was when they said that." She then confessed and explained.

"Well, I'm glad things have been getting better for you Sato-san." Homura replied with a nod of approval to hearing what her fellow committee members were doing.

"I think it's also because that Kagurazaka-kun might have a crush on you." Emica teased her with a wink. "Any particular reason why he might be interested in girls now?" She soon asked as she gave her a smug look.

Homura however sweatdropped in response. "Might be when he accidentally tripped and fell face first into my breasts." She soon guessed. "And yes, I know they're big." She then added.

"I can definitely see that. Much bigger than any of the other girls and even some of the female teachers." Emica admitted in agreement. "I think that Kamijo-san and Shinjo-san are close enough to yours and Shirokage-san's." She then added.

"Noted." Homura replied with a nod.

"Still, I'm glad that he's found someone that he's interested in." Emica soon admitted with a smile. "I was honestly worried that he wouldn't find anyone because of his short height. Kamijo and I teased him about it at lunch the other day and it was just so adorable seeing him being so embarrassed." She then laughed.

"Hehe, I bet it was." Homura replied with a giggle of amusement thinking about it.

"Yeah. And he does seem more happy when he's around you." Emica revealed as she smiled. "I can't imagine how many times he's talked about you whenever he, Kamijo-san and myself are together." She then added.

"Well that's good to know." Homura replied, feeling glad that she was getting so much respect. It really made her feel good.

"Also, I'm really glad that you started this committee. This school hasn't had a pretty good reputation because of what was going on behind the scenes and no one dared to make any sort of changes." Emica confessed in a grateful manner. "But when you came around, things have been turning for the better. I honestly can't thank you enough for bringing us together to actually make a difference to our school." She then added with a smile.

"Ah your just flattering me Sato-san." Homura played off while rubbing the back of her head. "But still, thanks." She then added.

"You're welcome, but I really do mean it." Emica replied in a grateful manner. "I haven't seen this school be so much more lively before you and those other 2 showed up. I hope that this school can continue on like this once I graduate. Hopefully with new students with the same mindset as you." She soon revealed and confessed.

"Thanks Sato-san. I hope the same thing happens as well." Homura replied. "Though I think the school is also lively thanks to the paintjob it got." She then suggested as she then pointed to all the graffiti around the school.

"That too. It really brightens up the place much better." Emica admitted in agreement as she looked around at the graffiti. "This is the kind of facelift it desperately needed." She then added.

"Oh yeah." Homura responded with a nod of agreement.

"And I'm also glad that you took the time out of your usual patrol to help me." Emica got out as she smiled softly. "I really do appreciate it and everything." She then added in a grateful manner.

"It's the least I could do." Homura responded, smiling while feeling a bond forming between herself and 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 Hanged Man by your side,

The forge for a new path will be formed.

Granting great power in return.

RANK UP! HANGED MAN RANK 1!

Distant Hope: 1% chance of revival on Game Over.

"Hanged Man!?" Homura thought in a panic and concern.

"What's wrong, Shinkukage-san? You're looking a little pale. Did something surprise you?" Emica asked with worry in her voice.

"I-It's nothing Sato-san..." Homura hesitantly replied.

"Are you sure? You look worried about something." Emica pointed out in concern.

"It's ok Sato-san." Homura reassured. "Hey, how about we patrol together a bit before heading home for the say?" She then offered.

"Sure, that sounds like a good idea." Emica responded as she nodded. "Plus, it'll be a lot easier for me to climb down the stairs when you're beside me." She then quipped.

"Yeah..." Homura replied as the two headed out. "I gotta keep a close eye on her..." She meanwhile thought in concern to her committee member.

The girls walked down the hallway for their routine patrol around the school before heading home for the day.

(7/11, Evening)

(Kujikawa Residence)

"So, how was school?" Rise asked, in a tone similar to a mother greeting her kid after the first day of school.

"It was...adequate." Daidōji answered simply. "Everything should go as planned. I'll step in if things do go wrong."

"You didn't tell them?" Rise got out with a raised eyebrow.

"No, I had just arrived and revealing it would cause them to distrust me right away, even if one of them is from Hanzō Academy." Daidōji explained. "...Besides, I want a good fight once things have settled down and simply carrying them through tough fights would not give them the experience they need to give me that." She then added.

"There we go." Rise deadpanned. "He did not plan your introduction to the school all that well, huh." She awkwardly guessed as she rolled her bags outside.

"That obvious huh?" Daidōji sighed out.

"Well, we are leaving in like...two hours." Rise pointed out after checking her watch. "Well, at least you have the train ride to plan out your lessons."

"...I thought we were going to the airport." Daidōji muttered.

"You can only get to Inaba by train." Rise reminded with a giggle. "Come on, I even got the best rooms on the overnight train. You will have to buy your own shower ticket though..." She then offered and informed.

"I guess we're stopping by a convenience store then."

"We better hurry. Our train is going to be the last train tonight." Rise soon got out.

"Allow me then." Daidōji offered in amusement as she wrapped her arm around the singer's waist.

"Uh...I'm still not used to that!" Rise squeaked.

"I noticed you scream and cry less afterwards so I assume that is an improvement from before." Daidōji pointed out.

"No no no! You did enough of that in Inaba! No-AAAAAHHHH! DAI-CHAAAAAAAN!" Rise cried out as the two vanished from the apartment without a trace, bags and all.

(7/12, Morning)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom)

The next day, the Phantoms Thieves of Class 2-D managed to keep themselves awake as their whatever-subject teacher rambled on.

"People sure are making a fuss even though it's right before exams." Inui noted. "Behind Kaneshiro's arrest are the Phantom Thieves, the mysterious group that changes people's hearts. If I recall, there were similar rumors back during that business with Kamoshida-kun. Help the weak and crush the strong...Truly a modern legend of the gentleman thief. In the long history of humans, the gentleman thief has been seen briefly during times of turmoil. Now then, please look at the picture on page 96." He then ordered, the sounds of pages turning filling the air.

Homura blinked as she stared at her textbook. Her book was pre-owned so her page was covered in many, many drawings of Ms. Chouno in...very compromising situations.

SLAM!

And immediately closed it shut, causing the sound to echo around the classroom and getting all eyes on her.

"Is something wrong?" Inui asked.

"N-Nothing, Inui-sensei!" Homura squeaked out while trying to hide the red blush on her face.

"Well then, Shinkukage-chan, you may as well answer my question for rudely interrupting class." Inui soon declared. "Now, the picture on the page is a painting of the most famous gentleman thief in Japanese history."

"Okay..." Homura got out as she hesitantly flipped her book open.

"What was the name of the gentleman thief whose family was boiled alive during the Sengoku period?" Inui then questioned as the tan skinned girl's brain went into overdrive.

Homura Shinkukage

Ishikawa Goemon

Zenigata Heiji

John Manjiro

"Gah! What's with all those names floating around in my head!?" Homura thought as she shook her head before calming herself down. "Uh...Goemon." She soon answered.

"Correct. Ishikawa Goemon." Inui responded, clapping a little for the girl. "As I'm sure you know, this is the origin of the term Goemon bath, or a bath heated from the bottom. Only stealing from the rich and powerful, and sharing with the poor...Goemon's exploits have been documented in many forms of media, like kabuki and novels." He soon revealed.

"That's a little dark. To have a bathing technique named after your execution..." Ann remarked with a wince.

"That does not look anything like Goemon..." Homura muttered under her breath.

"However, it's actually unclear whether or not Goemon was indeed a gentleman thief." Inui however informed. "Rebellion against Hideyoshi, whose campaign had failed; propaganda by the government to sully his name...The gentleman thief Goemon may be no more than an illusion made by varying motivations. In actuality, most heroes and gentleman thieves throughout history are something like that." He then continued his lesson.

"Let's make sure people don't think we're just an illusion. But before that, you need to study for the exams that are starting tomorrow." Morgana warned, popping his head out of Akira's desk.

"Hey, we're already proving we're more than phantoms of ailing old minds." Akira whispered back with a smirk. "If they think their empires are impenetrable, they've got another thing coming."

(7/12, After School)

(Disciplinary Committee Board Room)

Homura was filing some paperwork from the past months of her committee helping around the school. "A girl's work is never done." She thought to herself, a smile on her face as she reviewed her work. She had to get to studying right away after she finished up.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. "Shinkukage-senpai? You in there?" A familiar voice soon asked.

Homura in response raised her head as she looked at the door. "Kagurazaka-san?" She thought in confusion, now remembering that he wasn't at the meeting. "You may enter." She soon instructed.

The door slides open as Sora walks into the room, covering his face with his bag?

Homura, now even more confused than before as she watched her young member sit down in his seat on the opposite side of the table. "Kagurazaka-san, why are you covering your face?" She soon questioned.

"Well...it's kinda really embarrassing to explain..." Sora hesitantly answered. "But I also wanted to apologize to you for being here for the meeting this morning. I had something come up and I couldn't make it on time." He then apologized, still covering his face.

Homura in turn raised an eyebrow in response. "Well, you're here now and that's all that matters." She replied. "And there's nothing to be embarrassed about." She then added.

"Then...promise me something, will you?" Sora soon requested.

"Hm?" Homura hummed out, this time more concerned by the sudden change in tone.

"That you won't tell anyone about this." Sora responded as he lowered his bag to reveal bruises and a black eye.

"!?" Homura's eyes immediately widened as she quickly got up from her seat and rushed over to examine the wound. "What the hell happened to you!?" She soon questioned in shock.

"I...had a run-in with someone on the way to school." Sora answered as he shifted his gaze. "I didn't want anyone to worry about me, so I never came to the meeting. I wasn't sure how you guys would react." He then added as he blushed at the sight of her cleavage so close to him as he tries not to look and how she smells.

Homura however felt there was more to this as she took the boy's hand. "In any case, this should be looked at." She soon stated.

"Where are we going?" Sora asked, blushing as he felt her hand holding his.

"Where else?" Homura countered as she took the boy out of the room.

(Nurse's Office)

Sora was sitting on the medical bed where the nurse was applying some ointment to his bruises and gave him an ice pack for his eye.

Homura was sitting by the nurse's desk being emotional support for the boy. "Jeez Kagurazaku-san, you should've came to me about this right away." She soon stated in a concerned manner.

"I know, but I didn't want you or the others to worry." Sora sighed in guilt. "I wasn't sure how you'd react if I showed up looking like this." He then admitted as he took off his ice pack to show her his black eye.

"Care to explain in full detail how you got that shiner?" Homura soon questioned in a more demanding tone. "I swear if it was some rowdy students bullying you, all you have to do is point them out and we'll bring them to justice." She then stated and offered.

"I appreciate that, senpai. But it wasn't some bully or anything like that." Sora replied and explained. "It was really someone from my family who did this to me." He then revealed.

Homura's eyes immediately widened after hearing that. "Abusive...family?" She slowly guessed, remembering how her former family was before she was disowned.

"Yeah..." Sora responded with a nod as he took a deep breath. "It's my aunt who did this to me..." He then revealed.

"Your aunt did this to you? Why?" Homura in turn questioned in a serious tone.

"She's a former MMA champion who is now a CEO of a company that she started after she retired." Sora soon explained. "She always does this whenever I do something she doesn't approve of. Always calling me Accident-prone Sora..." He then revealed as he lowered his head.

"Accident-prone Sora..." Homura repeated. "Your aunt's a former MMA fighter?" She then asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, and one of the best ones. She even competed in the UFC against other MMA fighters." Sora answered.

"Still, there's a lot of injuries..." Homura however pointed out.

"It's her way of disciplining me if I step out of line." Sora soon revealed. "Not even my parents could stop her as she'll just do the same to them. Even my mom who is also her sister..." He then began before he started to tear up as he remembered something else.

"Kagurazaka...Sora-san, you have to know this isn't right though..." Homura soon stated as she bit her lip. "An abusive family member...just like what I went through..." She thought to herself as she balled her hands into fists.

"I know, but I really don't know what to do..." Sora responded as he still looked towards the floor.

"Is...there anyway I could help?" Homura soon offered.

"I don't know, my aunt's pretty much untouchable right now." Sora answered. "Because she's a CEO, she now thinks that no one can reach her. I don't know if there is any way you could help..." He then revealed with a despondent tone.

"I see..." Homura got out. "She could be a possible Phantom Thieves target...but would he want that?" She soon thought to herself.

The tan skinned girl knew she had to be considerate of others when it came to situations like this.

"But...if there is a way for you to help, then..." Sora responded, but hesitated to continue on as while he didn't like how his aunt is treating him, he still loves her like any family member would.

"Hmm..." Homura hummed out. "Maybe...go to the gym?" She soon suggested.

"The gym? Why there?" Sora looked up at her with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, to get physically stronger so you can at least toughen up and even vent our frustration." Homura explained. "Me and Makoto-senpai go to the gym quite a bit." She then revealed.

"Niijima-senpai? She goes there as well?" Sora asked in slight shock.

"Yup." Homura replied with a nod.

"I don't know...I doubt my height is really going to help in that..." Sora got out as he showed his short stature compared to the other boys in the committee, let alone the entire school.

"Sora-san, I know a girl who's practically a loli and is shorter than you." Homura however revealed.

(Hebijo Academy)

"Achoo!" Said loli suddenly sneezed and immediately felt a rush of anger through her body as she went back to assault rifle target practice.

(Shujin Academy, Nurse's Office)

"Really? She is?" Sora asked in a curious manner.

"Oh yeah." Homura responded with another nod. "Basically, you're fine with your height." She then reassured.

"You really think so? My height is fine?" Sora excitedly asked.

"Oh yeah." Homura replied with a thumbs up. "Though I won't be able to go to the gym with you since I'm busy myself." She then informed.

"That's alright, I can go there by myself." Sora replied.

"Cool, the gym I go to is in Shibuya. Protein Lover's." Homura responded and revealed.

The bluette's eyes immediately brightened to that. "Oh yeah, I know that place." Sora replied. "My grandfather used to take me there all the time. I always walk right past it whenever I go to Shibuya with my mom." He then explained.

"Ok good, so now you can go there." Homura responded with a nod.

"Yeah. I can ask my mom to take me there whenever I get the chance." Sora got out in agreement "I'm just hoping that this'll work for me." He then added in worry.

"Hey, just take it one step at a time." Homura instructed. "It'll work out in the end." She then reassured with a smile.

"If you say it will, then I'll take your word for it." Sora in turn responded with renewed confidence. "I'm really ready to vent out all of this frustration I had for so long and just don't want to be anyone's punching bag ever again." He then declared.

Homura could only smile softly to her junior's determination, feeling her friendship improving as a result.

RANK UP! STRENGTH RANK 2!

Unyielding Determination: Chance to increase Endurance at the start of a battle.

"Hey, senpai?" Sora soon called out.

"Hm? What's up?" Homura got out in a curious manner.

"I noticed that you've been calling me by my first name for a while now." Sora pointed. "Any reason why you started calling me by my first name?" He then asked.

"Ah, well calling you by your last name seemed to be a bit long for me." Homura sheepishly admitted while rubbing the back of her head.

"I guess it is, but I really don't mind it. I think it's better for you to call me by my first name." Sora replied in agreement as he smiled at her with the biggest grin he can muster. "But there is one thing I want in return from you." He then added.

"Eh?" Homura got out with a raised eyebrow.

"That I can call you by your first name." Sora soon requested. "Your last name is about just as long as mine, so it's fair if I do the same with you." He then explained.

"Oh, is that all?" Homura got out as she watched her junior nod in response. "Then sure, it's fine with me." She then replied with a smirk.

"Alright then, Homura-senpai." Sora responded as smiled even more, feeling even closer to her.

Homura meanwhile felt giddy towards another one of her juniors referring to her that way. It really did feel good being respected before she then looked at the time. "Ah, I better get going." She then got out.

"Same here. I promised my mom that I'd be helping her with grocery shopping." Sora replied as he got out of the bed. "She's planning on making something special tonight and I just can't wait to see it." He then revealed.

Homura in turn nodded to that as she made her way to leave.

"Homura-senpai?" Sora soon called out.

That got the tan skinned girl's attention as she turned to the boy after opening the door. "Yeah?" Homura responded in a curious manner.

"If I ever do meet you and Nijima-senpai at Protein Lover's, can you two still help me train to toughen me up?" Sora asked, almost like he was asking her on a date.

Homura however sweatdropped in response. "I don't think you'd be able to handle our form of training." She awkwardly revealed, as if it was a warning.

"Don't worry. I've been told I'm a huge masochist!" Sora proudly stated.

"...By who?"

"My parents." He automatically answered in the same tone.

"..." Homura didn't immediately respond as she looked at her committee member. "Have a good afternoon Sora-san." She simply responded as she left.

(7/12, Evening)

(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

Homura blinked when she saw Asuka inside the apartment, surrounding herself with notes and textbooks. "You didn't hang around town?"

"Nope, I just spent my day here studying." Asuka answered. "No one was available to hang out with today and Koikito said I should focus on my studies. So, I'm doing just that."

"...May as well do that too. I did not study at all after school." Homura sighed out as she set her bag down.

"So, what did you do?" Asuka soon asked as the two got to studying.

"More committee stuff, you know the drill." Homura answered with a shrug. "Need to hang out with as many of them as I can before summer starts because we are not going to see each other for a very long time. Honestly, they're all good people. It's just some of them that you need to dig deep down to find gold. And sometimes really deep." She then admitted.

To that, Asuka smiled. "Well, I'm glad you're making more friends, Homu-nee." She happily replied.

"Yeah. But I'm gonna have to work even harder once we get back." Homura stated as she frowned. "I mean, Satoshi needs at least Saintly Understanding if I want him fully committed, and Royal Elegance if I want to have a chance with Ichiko. And Hitomi? I'll need everything at its best if I want her out of her shell." She then assumed. "I dunno, I'm just guessing." She soon admitted.

"Well, we still have a lot of time before summer break. You'll get everyone on your side soon. I know you can." Asuka informed and encouraged.

"The words are appreciated, but that doesn't fix the fact that I'm the one who has to do it." Homura got out. "The committee is working, but...there's still people causing insane trouble. I thought things would be way better by now."

"At least we don't have many smokers any more." Asuka soon pointed out. "I never really said it before, but I really hated the nicotine scent that lingered." She then confessed.

"It doesn't stop them though. They probably found somewhere else to do that shit." Homura sighed out. "...Tomoko's views are starting to really make more and more sense. We really aren't doing much..."

"That's not true."

"You only say whatever I want to hear."

"I have never done that. Only what you need to hear." Asuka assured as she shook her head. "Don't give up just because you can't see the changes. There are people saying that you're making the school better."

"You mean the ones calling me and Makoto-senpai Shujin's Queens?" Homura sighed out.

It was the recent mutters she started to hear about herself and the Student Council President and it really felt awkward seeing some students admiring herself in a starry eyed manner.

"That shit is what made Kamoshida so powerful in the first place. I don't want that. I just want to fix the school into something more respectable, not rule the school. It belongs to the students, no one else." Homura confessed and explained.

"But you call Makoto-chan senpai, even though she doesn't want you to." Asuka reminded.

"Urk!" Homura winced as she remembered that. "...That's...That's different Sis..." She muttered.

"..." Asuka stared at her roommate in silence before shaking her head. "Let's just study, okay?" She soon requested.

"Y-Yeah." Homura responded with a nod as she then gained a confused expression. "Um...What's that?"

"...That's a Euler-Mascheroni constant." Asuka answered. "And that is 0.5772156649—" She continued on.

"What?" Homura interrupted with a severely lost look on her face.

And so the two roommates studied until their eyes hurt.

(Hebijo Academy)

"Is that all the bags you're bringing?" Mirai questioned as she looked over the snake girl's luggage. In only a few short minutes Hikage would need to leave for Tokyo.

"Yes." Hikage answered casually. She had packed everything from clothes, dog food and whetstones.

"But doesn't Poochie-chan need a dog kennel?" Yomi pointed out.

"She doesn't need one." Hikage responded as her puppy popped her head out from between her breasts.

"Arf!" Poochie barked out as she snuggled in a delighted manner.

"...I...I don't know what to say about this." Mirai admitted, blinking at the little dog. "Don't smother her in your sleep, okay?" She then advised.

"I would never." Hikage immediately responded. "Well, I'll be back." She simply informed with a nod as she held her things.

"Have fun." Mirai got out. "And make sure nothing bad is going to happen to Homura or Haruka." She then added.

"Well, I doubt they're not getting into too much trouble but I will check up on them." Hikage assured before vanishing from their sight...before coming right back. "Good-bye." She then got out.

"Bye." Yomi and Mirai replied before the greenette vanished once again.

"...What do we do now?" Mirai had to ask. They were the only Elites at Hebijo right now.

"...Well, there are rumors that someone here keeps getting junk food delivered to school." Yomi responded before frowning. "And not the cheap kind too. We need to find the burning hole in the school's budget!"

"From just junk food?" Mirai however asked.

"It's a lot." Yomi however stated as she suddenly took out a long bill. The eyepatch-wearing couldn't help but notice that this mysterious student orders a lot of onigiri. "I wonder how a shinobi could stay here with such a poor and costly diet!"

"You are right..." Mirai admitted. "Well, whoever this is must be the size of a cow by now. It shouldn't be too hard, right?" She then grumbled.

And suddenly, Hebijo's local extremely busty shut-in sneezed before feeling a cold hard stab of fear through her heart before cuddling her (creepy) plushie. "Someone is coming after me..." She mumbled.

If only someone out there could relate to her plight, even somewhat.

(?)

"ACHOO!" A young girl with orange hair suddenly sneezed herself awake. "Ah...I think I got a nosebleed from that..." She groaned out.

Save Game...Quit!

Asuka/Yin's Social Stats:

Leadership- Dependable (Level 3)

Knowledge- Expert (Level 3)

Proficiency- 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)

Now it's just exams and then it's time for the Futaba arc! The summer part of this story will be important because we will be completing Asuka, Homura and Yumi's Confidants and I am excited to show you what's going to happen with that.

UknownHero signing off, my friends!