Chapter XXXII: A November to Remember
Café Leblanc (純喫茶ルブラン)/Yongen-Jaya, Tokyo (四軒茶屋, 東京)/November 23, 2019 (Reality: November 23, 2021)/5:15 PM (JST)
Over a week has gone by since the fallout, the Thieves and the Revenants decided to remain low profile. This was to help get attention off them after the recent Vein Upheaval. This allowed Theodore to publicly speak on behalf of the Phantom Thieves and the Vein Remnants, leading to the debate about the Revenants' place in society. The debate went as expected until the Korean politician, Hoyeon, interjected and pushed forth with an ultimatum that was agreed upon by the Diet. After Mido is defeated, the Revenants must leave the world, or the Phantom Thieves must execute the Revenants.
As a result, what should've caused dissension between the Thieves and the Revenants only further solidified their alliance. They knew there was an impending conflict between them against Mido and Yliasterites soon.
Despite all of this, Iris Salazar's death still severely affected the Thieves and the Revenants. Theodore placed no blame on them for her death, but instead opted to accuse Juzo Mido and vowed to see justice right this wrong in Iris's honor.
Continuing to lay low due to the tensions toward the Revenants, the Thieves and the Revenants met for a group meeting at Café Leblanc. More than happy to provide the Vein Remnants with his coffee and curry, Sojiro welcomed them.
"So, you went and spread Iris's ashes?" Ren asked Leonard, who nodded and stared at his reflection inside his coffee cup.
"Yes, just as she wanted."
"Was Theodore ok with it?" Yusuke queried.
"Yes, when I told him it was Iris's request, he honored it."
Haru placed a hand on Leonard's shoulder. "But, are you ok now?"
Makoto added. "We gave you the space you wanted to grieve."
"And I'm thankful for you two, but yes I'm fine. I won't forget her passing, but she'll have a special place in my heart and my memories," Leonard said with the utmost respect for Iris. "I have to move on as she wanted me to."
"We're glad you're not grieving anymore because we still have Mido out there somewhere," Kaito reminded him.
Upon hearing his mortal enemy's name, Leonard tightened his grip on his cup.
"Yes, I know." He muttered through clenched teeth, failing to hide his obvious indignation at the aforementioned Revenant scientist.
"Guys, check this out!" Futaba pulled open her iPad and showed them news video feeds of various Tokyo locations covered with mixed messages to the Phantom Thieves, the Vein Remnants, and local law enforcement. The messages conveyed genuine reactions toward them; there were thank messages for the Thieves, numerous supporters for the Revenants, messages that condemned the Revenants for being monsters, and mixed responses toward the Thieves for protecting the 'monsters'.
One broadcast posted their latest message: "On this Labor Thanksgiving Day, we send our thank you to not just the local police and the Special Investigation Department for their hard work and continued services, but to the urban legends the Phantom Thieves and their allies calling themselves the Vein Remnants. However, not everyone shares this sentiment regarding these mysterious Revenants, who've been branded 'monsters' by Juzo Mido. After proclaiming them to be vampiric monsters, activists are pressuring the Special Investigation Department and the Phantom Thieves to get rid of the Revenants. "
"I'm not sure how to respond to that. They either love or hate us now," Skyler remarked.
"There's nothing else we could've done, Skyler. We never would've expected Mido to broadcast that message to the country. We did what we had to do and prevented what could've led to countless casualties," Hifumi genuinely said.
"Yeah, we won a battle, but this whole thing with Mido and the Yami Matter is far from over. Now Mido got the last laugh and has stirred strong reactions toward us."
"Going forward, we're going to need to be extra careful," Leonard stated.
"It doesn't help having to walk around and crosses hanging on some people's homes and businesses," Madeline verified.
"Little do they know, the traditional ways of warding off vampires don't apply to us," Jacob reminded them.
"Yep, holy water isn't going to hurt us either," Skyler said.
"At least our faces weren't fully revealed or we'd have to lock ourselves up somewhere," Kaito added.
"That's the last thing we need for ourselves," Rachel commented on the notion she, her brother, and their Revenant friends have to be locked inside their homes.
"You're right, but I can't shake off this feeling Mido is planning to assimilate these anti-Revenant activists into some faction full of Yliasterites," Skyler surmised a possible outcome.
Just then, Ryuji slapped Skyler's back and wore a big grin. "C'mon, dude. Let's just be thankful we're still here, alive, and ready to kick Mido's ass next time!"
Lying on Rachel's lap, Morgana yawned. "Yep, I knew you'd say something reckless like that. Expected from a numbskull."
"Say that in my face, hairball."
"Come over here and I'll claw your eyes out."
Clearing her throat, Ann interjected in Ryuji and Morgana's spat. "Not here, you two." She warned them in a menacingly cool tone, giving them a sense of trepidation they never felt from her before.
Having seen how volcanic Ann has been lately, Ryuji and Morgana shrank back in their corners.
"Yes, ma'am," whimpered Ryuji.
"Sorry, Lady Ann," Morgana murmured as Rachel patted his head.
"Don't count on me to save you from Ann, Mona-chan," Rachel giggled.
"Hey, Makoto. Have you heard anything about those four jerks? You know the ones that call themselves The Pack?" Ren asked the policewoman.
"Sis and I heard their side of the story. They confessed to working with The Consortium and were subjected to Mido's latest experiments. They expressed their deepest regrets and turned themselves in. Just today, Minami even resigned and gave up her badge."
"Wow, so those four are committed to reforming themselves? Well, good for them, I guess," Futaba added with no regard for The Pack.
"Shinya, Owen, and the others didn't need our help to kick their butts. Good on them!" Ryuji said.
Raising his coffee cup, Ren beckoned everyone else to lift their drinks. "It's going to be almost a full year since this Yami Matter conflict started. Now we know the culprit. He knows we'll be coming for him, but let's be thankful it's because of him we've been united. And together we will bring him down."
"I'm with you there, Ren," Skyler added.
"Same here," Hifumi nodded.
"Down with that bastard. He's going to get his when I get my hands on him," Ann muttered.
"Here's to us kicking his ass and setting things right!" Ryuji declared, raising his coffee cup.
"And here's to Yumeko and her friends who can't be here with us," Yusuke reminded them of their other allies.
Watching the Thieves and Revenants raise their cups and drink together, Sojiro smiled proudly for them.
"Anyway, we have a birthday coming up," Makoto said as she pivoted over to Haru. "Have you decided what you want to do?"
"Yes, I think the perfect place to celebrate, Mako-chan," Haru replied earnestly.
Tokyo DisneySea (東京ディズニーシー)/Urayasu (浦安市)/Chiba Prefecture (千葉県)/December 5, 2019 (Reality: December 5, 2021)/3:30 PM (JST)
Over a week later, Haru's birthday celebration took place. The Thieves and Revenants amassed and invited friends for a fun outing at the Tokyo DisneySea theme park.
Meeting at the front entrance, Ren, Ann, Ryuji, Morgana, Makoto, Haru, Yusuke, Futaba, Skyler, Hifumi, Io, Rachel, Leonard, and Kaito went into the theme park intending to enjoy every minute of the festivities. For some, it would be therapeutic, especially for Ren, Ann, Skyler, Hifumi, and Leonard, who all needed it following the tragedies and rising tensions they're likely to encounter.
Coming in separately from the main group, Shiho, Miyako, Shinya, Owen, Reiko, and Li-Ming would also join them as soon as the groups convened inside the theme park. The four teens joined up with Ren, Ann, Skyler, Hifumi, Io, Rachel, and Shiho to explore areas of the park.
"Hey, we should really check out Fantasmic!" Reiko reminded Shinya and Owen.
"Why? Do they have something new?" Shinya queried his girlfriend.
"No, but they're going to shut it down on March 25th of next year."
"No way! They're closing it down?" Owen was baffled to hear this.
Li-Ming added. "Yes, it's sad. I really liked Fantasmic!"
"Then, why don't we all see it together?" Hifumi suggested. "Io hasn't seen it."
"You want to go see it tonight?" Skyler asked the white-skinned Revenant, who nodded.
"Yes, I would like to see it."
"Then, it's decided. We're all going to see Fantasmic!" Ann openly declared.
Grabbing Rachel's hand, Shiho smiled at her Revenant lover. "That sounds like a good time. You want to watch it together?"
"Anywhere you want to go, I'll come with, my love," Rachel lovingly responded, kissing Shiho's face.
The Thieves and Revenants would later be joined by Rebecca, Sojiro, Catherine, Miranda, Sae, Hojo, Anthony, Megumi, Cynthia, Jacob, Madeline, Akechi, Sumire, Eugene, Anastasia, Nadia, Sophia, Maruki, Ichinose, Zenkichi, Akane, Konoe, Joaquin, Lance, Cammy, Marty, Andrea, Tori, Hiroshi, Samantha, Huey, Sasha, Ayana, and Kara. The Spiritual Gamblers (Yumeko, Mary, Ryōta, and Ririka) were also invited by Hifumi and Skyler to come to celebrate Haru's birthday.
The older adults such as Sojiro, Sae, Hojo, Anthony, Cynthia, Catherine, and Miranda explored the park. Catherine and Miranda took pictures together with various Disney mascot characters. With Sojiro accompanying them, he helped take pictures of Sae and Hojo near a few of DisneySea's attractions, including a picture in front of Sinbad's Storybook Voyage.
"So, Sae. Tell me, was this Shadow thing of yours terrifying as they say?" Hojo curiously asked his wife.
"She's not so bad since she's part of me. She's just a more volatile version of me. Based on what I've heard from Makoto, you wouldn't last a minute with her in bed," Sae said. As she said this, she noticed she elicited a petrified reaction from Hojo's face. "Yeah, sounds like she'd be too wild for you."
"Hey, Sae. Come over here and get in a picture with us!" Catherine called out to her friend.
"Hang on a moment, Hojo," Sae said as she met with Catherine and Miranda. Sae asked Hojo to take a pic of the three.
After taking their picture, Hojo showed his wife the pics he had taken of Sae and her friends.
"Hehe, maybe you oughta take over for me. This old timer needs to sit down after this walking around," Sojiro said in a half-joking manner while Hojo shrugged and modestly laughed.
"Sure thing, Sojiro," Hojo waved off the LeBlanc owner.
"Karen-I mean Catherine. I'm sorry it's going to take time getting used to calling you by your real names?" Sae apologetically said, correcting herself.
"No, it's ok. Yeah, it's taken some time to get used to our actual names," Catherine said.
"I don't mind being called Aurora or Miranda."
"Of course, you don't," Catherine chuckled.
So, how's your brother Leonard been? Makoto told me he's been coping better since Iris's passing," Sae said.
Catherine deeply sighed with a vague smile. "He's getting better. He called to tell me how he's been. I'm thankful your sister and Haru have been extremely supportive of him."
"Makoto is always loyal to those she cares for. Your brother is in good hands with those two," Sae reassured her.
"Yeah," Catherine replied.
Near the Arabian Coast area, Ryuji, Miyako, Yusuke, and Futaba scoured around. They spotted the recognizable Genie from Aladdin.
"Yo, it's the Genie in his blue glory!" Futaba pointed out to the Genie mascot. "Wanna take a selfie with him, Inari?"
"I suppose. Hold on wait!" Yusuke nodded as Futaba dragged him along.
"Thanks for buying this for me, Ryuji," Miyako said, holding a Rajah plushie he purchased for her.
"Hey, I told ya I was gonna get you anything you want."
"Then, how about a pic with the Genie?"
Taking out his cell, Ryuji grinned. "Coming right up, babe."
Not too far from Ryuji, Yusuke, Futaba, and Miyako's location, Sumire explored the Arabian Coast with Megumi and Eugene.
"This was a great idea to come out tonight. The weather isn't too cold either," Eugene said with satisfaction.
"Enjoy it while it lasts. You know it gets colder soon around this time of year," Sumire reminded him.
"Yep, tell me about it. We're gonna be building snowmen and seeing icicles somewhere," Megumi jokingly added.
"Haha, funny," sardonically mumbled Eugene, who then laughed along with his girlfriends.
"Hey, Megumi. Listen, I don't care what you are, you're still our friend," Sumire warmly smiled toward the Yaksha Revenant.
"Thanks, Sumire. Man, it's gonna suck if I ever turn back into a human. Supposedly after we beat the Yami Matter and resolve everything, Io might leave us and then our Revenant abilities will go with her."
"Why would that suck?" Eugene curiously queried.
"'Cause, you see then without any Revenant abilities, I can't self-regenerate and that means pain from my foot injury will come back. And it's right back to rehabbing it. That means I won't get to practice any gymnastics like I've been doing again. It was fun while it lasted," Megumi sighed, sounding despondent about the one aspect she'll miss about being a Revenant.
"Listen, Megumi. Don't let that damper your hopes. I'll be there to guide and help rehab you when that time comes," Sumire openly vowed.
"You mean both of us will help her, Sumire?" Eugene joined in.
"Aww, thanks you two," Megumi happily blushed, conveying her affection for her two lovers.
Watching them close by, Anthony and Cynthia sat down on a bench as they pleasantly enjoyed the evening view.
"Listen, Cynthia. We've known each other a while since we opened the weapon shop."
A sly smirk formed across the blonde woman's face as she kissed Anthony's lips. "Yeah, so what? That shouldn't stop us from dating. We've gotten close and whenever we want to step away, we can trust Megumi to run the shop."
"Yes, of course."
"So, after this whole Mido and Yami Matter crap is done, you wanna go somewhere fun?" Cynthia asked the large black man, who nodded approvingly.
"That sounds like a plan. I'm down for anywhere as long as it's outside Japan."
Hearing this, Cynthia eagerly grinned. "Don't worry I have a few ideas." She and Anthony then leaned over to kiss as she stroked and brushed her fingernails through Anthony's beard. As they kissed, she folded her arms around his larger frame.
Jacob, Madeline, Samantha, and Huey rode on the Caravan Carousel.
"Having a fun time?" Jacob awkwardly asked, riding on the Genie carousel.
"I'm having the time of my life thanks to you. Now, hold that pose," Madeline smiled, snapping a picture with her cell.
Jacob tried but failed hard to conceal a blush. "I wouldn't do this for anyone, but you. And only you."
Madeline giggled. "I know. You're so cute when you blush, Jacob."
"Yeah, yeah, Jacob said, finding it hard to conceal his smile as he enjoyed every lasting moment of spending time with Madeline.
"Aww, aren't they just cute together, Huey?" Samantha asked her boyfriend, who nodded in response.
"They are, but are they as good a couple as us?" Huey wondered.
"Who knows? But, I think they have good competition," Samantha said, folding her arms around Huey as she kissed his cheek.
Elsewhere, Leonard, Makoto, and Haru explored the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea section. They went inside a submarine to participate in the Tokyo Disney Submarine Ride. The Revenant and his two girlfriends were enamored with the wondrous underwater experience.
"Isn't it just pretty?" Haru asked the two.
"It is, but being here with you two makes it much better," Leonard genuinely added.
"We made a good choice to come back here to celebrate your birthday," Makoto smiled, leaning her head against Haru's shoulder and holding her hand.
"Thank you, Mako-chan. I'm glad all of you came," Haru said, returning the favor by holding Makoto's hand.
Shinya, Owen, Reiko, Li-Ming, Akane, and Joaquin competed in an active shooting game inside the Toy Story Mania attraction. The boys got a little too competitive as they shot every target a Buzz Lightyear and Jessie hologram held up.
"You've got this, Joaquin!" Akane cheered her friend on.
"C'mon, Nicola!" Li-Ming cheered him on.
"Do you two always have to make it a competition?" Reiko sighed.
"Heh, we can't help it. It's what real men do!" Shinya laughed it off and shot up the last target, but Nicola fired the last one, too.
Owen boasted. "Oh, we got the last one!"
"I think you two tied!" Li-Ming pointed to their score.
"150,000 points to 150,000 points! I'd call that a tie game!"
"Man, I didn't get close. I just ranked 120,000," Joaquin sighed but still gave Shinya and Owen fistbumps.
"Don't sweat it. You were catching up at the very end," Owen said, giving Joaquin props for his effort.
"You did fine, Joaquin. Although, my dude would be kinda disappointed you didn't beat these two," Akane chuckled.
"Then, I'll do my best to impress your dad next time!" Joaquin quickly and openly vowed.
"Whoa, I was just half-joking! Kinda…" Akane giggled.
Shinya sneaked a grin. "How about a tiebreaker, Owen?"
"After this, how about we look for other games to play?" Reiko suggested.
"We can go check out the Tower of Terror next," Owen said.
"Then, there's where we'll go!" declared Shinya.
Watching from afar, Zenkichi, Maruki, and Ichinose observed the teens as the Kyoto police inspector could only sigh with slight dissatisfaction.
"Oh, come on, Joaquin. You couldn't have outshoot these two?" Zenkichi muttered, slightly stunned by Akane's friend's performance.
Maruki openly chuckled. "Hey, he was getting better at the end there."
"I'm sure he'll catch up with those two in no time," Ichinose added.
"So, what are you two doing here?" Zenkichi asked.
"Oh, you see because we're waiting for Sophia to finish entertaining those kids over there," Maruki answered as he pointed Zenkichi toward Sophia's way as the android displayed a holographic light show for some enthusiastic children clapping and laughing.
"As humanity's companion, looks like my mission was accomplished entertaining these children," Sophia said.
"Don't make it a mission, Sophia! Just have fun with the kiddos, ok?" Ichinose called out.
"Right!" The android responded accordingly while children lined up to take pictures with her.
As Makoto, Haru, and Leonard ran into the teens, Makoto eyed Akane and Joaquin with a raised brow and smiled.
"Ah, have you two been on your best behavior?" Makoto teased them.
"Of course, Makoto!" Akane replied.
"Yeah, no funny business here!" Joaquin quickly responded.
"Right, you two keep having fun," Makoto said.
"And if you're going to hold hands, only do it if you're on a really scary ride," Haru suggested.
"Yeah, what she said," Leonard shrugged.
"Yeah, yeah," Akane and Joaquin replied in unison as they ran off with Shinya, Owen, Reiko, and Li-Ming.
"Looks like my brother is behaving, too, but I trust Owen," Rachel was heard behind Makoto, Haru, and Leonard. As the trio turned, they faced Rachel and Shiho, who were seen holding stuffed dolls they just won from a game.
"Hey, are you two having fun?" Leonard asked the couple.
"We are. Thanks for asking. I haven't had this much fun in a while," Shiho replied.
"We're going to explore a little bit. Mind if we hang with you three?" Rachel asked them.
"Sure, we don't mind," Makoto nodded.
Elsewhere, Skyler, Hifumi, and Io rode on the Nemo & Friends SeaRider. They were greeted by the Finding Nemo characters. When the likes of Nemo and Dory popped up, Io's eyes filled with elation seeing the colorful characters.
"Are you enjoying it, Io?" asked Hifumi.
"Yes, they're so colorful!" Io gleefully replied.
Seeing Io smile brought warmth to Skyler's heart. The Persona Vein's behavior progressed from stoic to at times enthusiastic whenever there wasn't a dangerous enemy present. She also demonstrated curious, childlike qualities when met with things she hadn't seen before, such as seeing all the Disney characters in costume, holograms, or CGI form.
"I think you're going to like Fantasmic!" Skyler addressed Io.
Io grinned happily. "How about we go see it now?"
On their way, they bumped into Lance and Cammy along the way.
"Are you all having fun?" Lance asked Skyler, Hifumi, and Io.
"We are. We're about to check out the Fantasmic," Skyler replied.
"Would you care to join us?" Hifumi offered an invitation.
"What do you think? I want to see it before they close it down!" Cammy pleaded with Lance.
"Yeah, sure. We were planning to save it for last anyway," Lance replied much to Cammy's delight.
"Then, come on with us. Let's get there and find some good seat," Skyler said.
Hifumi patted Io's shoulders. "I know someone here is excited to see it."
"Ok, so I got a text from Nadia and Anastasia. They're meeting us there, Hifumi," Skyler added.
"That saves us the trouble of finding them. Good, we can make it," Hifumi said.
Not far from where Skyler, Hifumi, and Io were, the Spiritual Gamblers took pictures with the theme park's mascots. Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta took a trio shot. Then, Yumeko and Mary took turns taking pictures with Ryōta. Mary and Ririka got into a duo shot. Finally, all four took a group pic shot in front of the Tower of Terror.
"Isn't it just a lovely night out tonight?!" Yumeko gleefully cheered, throwing her arms outward while wearing a lively smile on her face.
"That was nice of Haru to send every one of us invites for her birthday. I'm glad she remembered us," Ryōta stated.
"That's what happens when you have all that money and run a company. I'd have done the same thing if I ran a business," Mary said boastfully.
"Would you? Even me?" Ririka asked.
"Yeah, I would," Mary genuinely said, draping an arm over Ririka. Then, Yumeko joined in and draped an arm across Mary.
"Awww, that's so sweet! Anyway, we should get on a ride. Then, we can find Hifumi and Skyler," Yumeko suggested.
"There's plenty for us to choose from," Ryōta stated as he and the female gamblers looked for the nearest ride to take.
As the group headed another way, they were monitored from a distance by Kirari and Sayaka. A genuine smile crossed Kirari's blue lips. Observing her keenly, Kirari watched her sister Ririka laughing and smiling with her new friends.
"She's right back with Saotome Mary and her friends. Are you ok letting Ririka hang with them?" Sayaka asked her partner.
"As long as my sister is happy, who am I to tell her who she can and can't spend time with? It's her life now," Kirari adamantly stated as she turned around and put an arm over Sayaka's shoulder, eliciting a blushed reaction from her lover. "We've settled our scores with rivals and got our pay from the Consortium. Let's just think about us now. Let's go somewhere where it's just the two of us, sweetie."
Responding with a loving smile, Sayaka draped an arm across Kirari's back and kissed her. "Yes, my Kirari."
Kaito, Rebecca, Tori, and Hiroshi screamed together on the thrilling Raging Spirits coaster in the Lost River Delta area. After getting off the ride, Megumi jumped up with her right fist pumped into the air.
"Hell yeah! Let's ride it again!" Tori shouted.
"How about now, you freaking lunatic woman?!" Hiroshi yelled out.
Rebecca chuckled nervously. "But, that was our… 5th time on it."
"Yeah, give us a break, Megumi!" Kaito added his grievance.
"Heh, your loss. I'm getting on it again!" She ran back to the line.
Watching her race back into the line, Kaito, Rebecca, and Hiroshi both let out hard exasperated sighs.
Meeting at the Tower of Terror, Ren and Ann convened with Shinya, Owen, Reiko, and Li-Ming. Marty and Andrea ended up joining them. Akane and Joaquin briefly went to buy souvenirs from a gift shop. They overheard an old man's voice from a speaker interacting with a cursed spirit named Shiriki Utundu.
"Yikes!" Andrea shrieked at the sound of the haunted speaker's voice.
"Guys, I'm getting a little freaked out by this," Li-Ming muttered as she heard a loud jolt, causing her to nearly jump out and hold onto Owen. "Oh my god!"
Owen chuckled as he patted her. "It's ok. It's just a special effect."
Marty sighed. "C'mon, Andrea. Should an Air Force vet like you be scared by a speaker's voice?"
"It caught me off guard, ok?!" Andrea frantically spat out.
"Yeah, you guys are going to love this next part," Ann sneakily grinned.
After a creepy green spirit faded into the darkness, the group felt the floor they were standing on shifting upward and stopping.
"Is that it?" Shinya asked.
"Nope," Ren casually replied.
Then, they felt a sudden jolt and the floor quickly dropped. Shinya, Reiko, Li-Ming, and Andrea screamed aloud. Li-Ming clinged to Owen. Andrea quickly hugged Marty for dear life. Shinya and Reiko quickly folded their arms around each other.
"YEAH!" Ann cheered and screamed.
Watching the teens and Andrea screaming as if their lives depended on it, Ren wore his famous devilish Joker's grin. "Told you this wouldn't be for the faint of heart."
As the floor made a slow and steady descent, Ren and Ann turned to the teens, Marty, and Andrea. All but Owen and Marty's faces were white all over.
"Geez, you three are wimps. That wasn't so bad," Owen remarked.
"You oughta be ashamed, Andrea," Marty nodded in disapproval.
"Whatever, tough guy!" Andrea snapped at Marty.
"Hey, shut up!" Shinya retorted, trying and failing to hide the fear on his face.
"That was scary!" Reiko whined until a smile crept on her features. "But, it was a lot of fun!"
"Yeah, but my heart's beating so fast! I'm glad you were here with me, Owen!" Li-Ming had a hand on her pulsating chest. "Next time, I won't be scared!"
Ren turned to Ann. "Seems like they enjoyed it. So, mission accomplished?"
Ann replied with a sneaky grin. "I think so."
Waiting for Ren and Ann outside the ride, Morgana stayed still as best as he could in Ren's bag. "Man, how long are they going to keep me waiting? I'm starving!" His incessant whining was interpreted as a cat meowing, causing some bewildered people to look around in confusion.
Once Ren and Ann collected Morgana, they headed off to meet for the big Fantasmic event. On their way, they ran into Akechi. Wearing a red crow's mask, Akechi approached them with a vague smile.
"I'm glad you're all having your fun and I've been enjoying my solitude, but I figure I should make my leave. Tell Ms. Okumura I said thank you for the invite, even though she didn't really invite me," Akechi said.
"Can't say I blame her since you did kill her father's Shadow. I've been holding this back for a while, but while I'm glad you've helped us against the Yami Matter situations, helped us to stop Mido, and saved Sae's life, we still haven't forgotten and forgiven what you did to us. I can tolerate you at best, but Haru and Futaba won't be making friends with you anytime soon," Ann directly warned Akechi.
"I often ask how and why Ren continues to tolerate you, but it's always his call. And so far, he hasn't let us down and you've cooperated with us," Morgana said.
Nodding, Akechi took in the scathing words. "I understand completely. You've tolerated me this long, and yes, Ren has given me more chances than I can count. He knows despite my past sins, my power is reliable. Likewise, Sumire hasn't grown to hate me. Though, I will avoid the Revenants at all costs since they don't seem to care for me. Oh well. It can't be helped."
"Listen, Akechi. On Makoto and Sae's behalf, they thank you. So do I for that matter. But, I can't help you as long as the law is on your tail," Ren adamantly stated.
"I'm quite aware that I'm still wanted and I'm surprised this disguise has worked well," Akechi said. Granted, it won't last me long. So, after tonight I'll disappear into the shadows until you require my assistance." As he said this, he turned away.
"Wait, won't you join us for the Fantasmic event?" Ren asked him.
"Who knows? Maybe? I'll see you soon," Akechi enigmatically said, leaving Ren, Ann, and Morgana behind befuddled with his vague words.
"Ugh, that red mask takes me back to his Robin Hood thing," Ann scoffed.
"Some of us may still hate his past actions, but he's been a valuable asset for us," Morgana added, eyeing Akechi walking away.
"True, but I'm sure we'll see him again. He wouldn't miss another chance to fight Mido again," Ren said.
"Ugh, don't remind me about that asshole. If Mido ever shows up, I'll burn his sorry ass into cinders!" Ann snarled while her eyes burned with passionate fury. Unbeknownst to her, Ren and Morgana fearfully backed off.
8:00 PM
By nightfall, everyone invited for Haru's birthday met for tonight's Fantasmic! show.
"When is it starting?" Io excitedly asked Skyler.
"Any minute now."
Just then, some fantastical music was heard, leading to explosive fireworks lighting up a mountain-like structure. The sound of a woman crying "imagination" blared out of some unforeseen speakers. More fireworks lit up and lights painted the mountain completely blue. White stars and a half-crescent moon appeared. Now standing atop the crown of the mountain was Mickey Mouse garbed in his red magician's garb and blue magician's hat, as seen in the Fantasia film. Even scenes of Mickey pulled straight from the film were shown on a big screen.
The group watched in bewilderment and awe at the light and fireworks show. Io became mesmerized by the magical light show performance. Happily watching Io enamored by the show, Skyler and Hifumi leaned against the other.
Minutes into the show, boats with various Disney characters and costumed dancers on them. Two separate boats with Pumbaa and young Simba appeared as the Circle of Life briefly blared from speakers. Later, boats holding giant globes arrived. Scenes of the Genie straight from the Aladdin animated film played coupled with Friend Like Me playing from speakers.
After the Cinderella performance, the Magic Mirror straight from Snow White and the Seven Dwarves appeared. The creepy visage of the mirror entity appeared on the front of the giant mirror. Also appearing inside the mirror were some of the Disney animated movie villains, including the Wicked Queen, Ursula, Chernabog, and Maleficent. Fire is expelled from areas near the mirror. After Maleficent vanished, her dragon form, revealed as a life-sized prop, came out of the mirror.
"The special effects are pretty neat," Leonard remarked, sitting with Makoto and Haru.
"But, watching them with you two makes the whole experience more magical," Haru commented as she and Makoto leaned against Leonard.
Sitting together, Rachel and Shiho leaned their heads on each other and held hands. Sumire, Megumi, and Eugene were in each other's company as well. Kaito and Rebecca enjoyed the show but not as much as being with one another. Even the Advent Eight had a blast enjoying the show and being in each other's company, too. Akechi, too, watched while intentionally cutting himself from the others. Making his vow to watch the show, he silently turned away before the festivities wrapped up.
The final part of the show approached. More boats appeared and fountains of water sprayed from the mountain. Amassed on a boat, Mickey Mouse and his friends waved to the audience.
Io turned around, hugging Skyler and Hifumi. "That was a spectacular show. I'll never forget this!"
"We're happy you enjoyed it, Io. That's all that matters to us." Hifumi smiled and patted her head.
"I'm so glad we came here. It helps heal the emotional wounds we've suffered." Ann murmured as she patted her soft belly. "Hopefully, we can bring our kiddo here one day."
Ren added with a hand caressing his wife's abdomen. "We will. I promise."
The festive show brought the Thieves, the Revenants, and their friends following Mido's insidious machinations and the Yami Matter's destructive influence.
Chiyoda, Tokyo ( 千代田区 , 東京 )/10:35 PM (JST)
After Haru's birthday event concluded at Tokyo DisneySea, the groups went their separate ways. Some of the couples walked home together. The Phantom Thieves, the Revenants, and their colleagues reflected on all that had happened to them over the past year. A lot of heartfelt, dramatic, and taxing events greatly affected their lives for the best and unfortunately the worst.
In Ren and Ann's case, they saw their marriage tested by the Yami Matter. Through a myriad of arduous challenges, they endured two Yami Matter events and Mido's meddling, nearly causing the end of their relationship and Ann almost committing suicide. Despite these horrid events, they managed to overcome Ann's evil cognitive self and restore each other's trust. After they defeated and ran Mido out of their dimension, Ren and Ann talked about their future, especially their newborn on the way.
"Hoo boy, what a night, huh?" Morgana asked, poking his head out of Ren's bag.
"I'm glad we came out for tonight. Thanks for being patient with me, I didn't want to run around too much since you know," Ann said apologetically.
"It's fine and that's why I didn't say anything when you asked for more food to eat," Ren said.
Patting her belly, a warm smile adorned Ann's features. "I've got to take it easy. By the way, I heard Madeline might be with a child soon, too."
Morgana blinked with befuddlement. "What? Really, Lady Ann?"
"Yep, so she and I might be bearing our kiddos soon."
Just then, Ren's phone let out an audible beep and he turned on Sophia's app message.
"Human women in their third trimester require extra food consumption during pregnancy. At least 300 extra calories per day is required but that does depend on what you're eating. Might I suggest some food that can fill you up, Ann?" Sophia's voice chimed in from Ren's phone.
"Thanks, Sophie, but I think I'll manage on my own. My doctor's been recommending what I should be eating."
"You're very welcome, Ann. And I had fun tonight! I hope we can get together like this."
"Me, too, Sophie, but it's better knowing you're at my fingertips when we need you," Ren said.
"Just tap my app and I'll answer right away. Good night, my friends," Sophia said, her voice gradually fading from the speaker.
"It'll be interesting to see a Revenant bearing a child," Ren said.
"Yeah, but Madeline's just a stand-in for Eva. I do wonder after we truly defeat that bastard Mido and the Yami Matter, if they'll become their human selves again. That means our real-time will be restored to the way it was. We should be living in 2021 not 2019," Ann reminded them about the time alteration after the Yami Matter took root in their world.
"You're right, but I guess we won't know until after we've defeated the enemy, source," Morgana said. Just then, they stopped along the way to meet with Rachel and Shiho. As Morgana hopped out of Ren's bag, the black cat landed in Rachel's waiting arms.
"I'm glad you came out to join us, Shiho," Ann said as she and her best friend hugged but not too tightly.
"I wouldn't miss it, Ann. And besides, I'm Rachel's date so I can't refuse," Shiho said, who was seen holding Rachel's hand. "Let me know if you need anything with the 'you know what' coming soon."
"Thanks, Shiho," Ann said.
"Take care, you two," Rachel waved to the Thieves as she and Shiho left.
"See you two later!" Morgana called out to Ren and Ann.
Having arrived as a big group, Hifumi, Skyler, Io, and the Elven Princesses walked home together. On their way to Hifumi and Skyler's apartment, they reflected on everything starting from Hifumi meeting Skyler up to tonight's festivities.
"It's been a whole year since we got together and all of this Revenant stuff has happened," Skyler reminded Hifumi, who nodded knowingly.
"And it's been a full year since Io came into our lives," Hifumi said, walking along with and holding the pale Revenant's hand.
"Has it been a whole year? Yes, I believe it has," Io briefly smiled as she brushed her long white hair back.
"It's been one hell of a year, though Anastasia and I didn't come into your lives 'til a little later!" Nadia chuckled, forming a lively grin on her face.
"Yet it feels like we've known you three longer than that. Doesn't that feel strange?" Anastasia asked Hifumi, Skyler, and Io.
"Nah, not at all. It feels like we've known each other a while, but you're right it's only been several months," Skyler added.
"But, we've grown quite attached," Hifumi added. "By the way, remember this exact spot, Skyler?"
"We're in Chiyoda?" Skyler glanced around, surveying his surroundings as he remembered the exact day he met Hifumi. "Hey, you're right!"
"See? This is the same place," Hifumi smiled, brushing her long hair away. "I was out for a relaxing walk and recalled the spot where the original Sion, myself, and the Phantom Thieves defeated Datenshi. Chiyoda was damaged during that battle and using Shin-Io's power I restored everything to the point where not a trace of that battle ever happened, but it did because I remember it in my memories. That day during my walk, I ran into you, Skyler Jones." Her beautiful smile broadened as she extended her hand to Skyler. "I thought I was seeing Sion again, but it was you. Skyler. You had his face, his appearance, and his voice."
"But, I'm not him."
"Yes, but that's ok. You share his name, but you are a different person. I've accepted you for who you are."
"And that's when we offered to walk with each other."
Io then interjected. "And I was there in ethereal form and watching you two walk together that fateful day."
"You watched us?" Skyler turned to Io in bewilderment and chuckled. "Then again, knowing you I'm not surprised." He then gently tapped Io's head and genuinely smiled down at her. "I'm glad you came into our lives, Io. Without you, we wouldn't have amassed this many friends and there's no way we'd be able to know where the Yami Matter will strike next."
"And if you weren't around, we wouldn't be able to become Shin-Io and have defeated Mido. More importantly, you're family to us now, Io," Hifumi stated lovingly, approaching Io and giving her a warm embrace. "However long you're with us, let's make it count."
"It's my pleasure and thank you for letting me be a part of your lives," Io said, smiling warmly as she snuggled up to Hifumi and Skyler.
"Hey, don't leave us out, you three!" Nadia hollered as she got behind and folded her arms around Skyler's waist.
At the same time, Anastasia approached Hifumi and patted her shoulder. "Mind if we stop and enjoy your company, too."
"No, of course not since Io did bring you two into our world," Skyler nodded approvingly, allowing the Elven Princesses to join in their good company.
As they approached closer to the apartment. Hifumi looked up at the tranquil sky and pointed the group to a shooting star that passed over Tokyo at blinding speed. Each one made unique wishes. However, they also shared a secondary wish. They wished for the end of the Yami Matter conflict.
"If you're still out there, Miki, I hope you're ok," Hifumi muttered, keeping her newest acquaintance in mind. The last she had seen Miki was the Fifth Yami Matter event and when told she went missing with no body located, she wondered about Miki's whereabouts.
Dimension: Akane-no-Mai-Vein
With his wormhole opening up, Mido was dumped outside a ruined citadel. His body, while somewhat battered and cut in half by Shin-Io, was put back together by the Yami Matter's power. The defeated Revenant crawled itself toward the citadel's entrance. Having to crawl his way into the mouth of the entrance, a humbled Mido crawled his way toward the darkest area of the citadel's inner chamber. The hostile air and aridness were suffocating as he breathed, though it didn't affect Mido. The pain from his scars left him with stinging sensations.
"These mere scars are nothing. Thank the Yami Matter for putting my body back in one place. This is just a mere setback. It's nothing I can rebound from," muttered Mido, his red eye veering toward a throne forged from obsidian stone and golden steel. "Any scientist always has a contingency when one plan goes awry. I still have my B-plan: the endgame. " His eye scanned and discerned a recognizable figure sitting on the throne. "Hehe, besides they may have beaten me in battle, but I won the war. Now, they can live with the harsh reality of the public fearing them and calling them monsters! Yes, your supporters will gradually turn on you!"
As he boasted over the Vein Remnants' public reputation being stained, he approached the seated figure. "Now, it's time to awaken."
Awakening from the sound of Mido's voice, the figure opened her eyes. Stirring from her sleep, the figure emerged. She has a striking resemblance to Togo Hifumi minus some notable features. This Hifumi's eyes have dark blue pupils with black filling out her iris, similar to Cruz, Mido-Sekiken, and Mido-Sion's eyes. Based on the nature of her eyes, she seemed to be a Revenant. Her outfit was similar to Tennyo's, except this one was wearing a dark blue sleeveless dress, had layers of black bandages covering her waist coupled with a gray waist belt, had dark blue fingernails & pedicure nails, black-winged accessories rather than Tennyo's white, and a pair of black sandals with dark blue straps over the front of the toes.
The Revenant Hifumi waited for Mido to stand on his own feet. The Revenant scientist chortled as he faced the dark-garbed Hifumi entity.
"You…" mumbled Mido. "Did you have a nice nap?"
No response from Revenant Hifumi.
"Well, I hope you've had enough rest because there's a big battle forthcoming. I need you at your best."
Revenant Hifumi obediently nodded.
"Heheh, that's right my Jinyo. They've beaten me in that dimension, but we can anticipate their arrival in this dimension for the endgame!" Mido declared as he then communicated with the Yami Matter surfacing on the walls. "Yes, we shall have our way with them, won't we? Their luck shall run out when we're done with them!"
Suddenly, a soft and insidious giggle caused Mido to cease his boasting. The Revenant scientist slowly pivoted behind him, noticing a solitary figure walking out of the Yami Matter wall. Acknowledging this figure's presence, Mido knelt and bowed.
The Yami Matter's shadows mostly concealed the figure's presence. The left side of this individual's body was cloaked in a shroud of darkness. The right side revealed Nakamura Miki's face and body. The once-believed deceased Miki was alive and well.
Replacing her neutral look, a faint and insidious smirk curved over her features. Miki raised a hand and conjured two dark holes. Emerging from these holes were Miki's assistants: Jocelyn/Ildikó and Carolyn/Fredegund. The two ladies faced Miki and bowed.
"Our humblest apologies for failing to destroy our enemies," Fredegund acknowledged their loss against the Phantom Thieves and their allies. "As you command, the Vamkyries are in their resting places now."
"The Yami Matter forgives you," Miki responded as her tone became low-pitched and distorted, reflecting her true nature as an entity connected to the Yami Matter.
"While I'm grateful you repaired my body, I could've easily put myself back in place," Mido scoffed.
"And I had to show restraint during that whole battle, fooling Togo Hifumi, Skyler Jones, and the Phantom Thieves into believing I was on their side. And I especially had to restrain myself knowing I could have very easily obliterated you without a second thought, Juzo Mido," Miki said as she pointed toward him as the Yami Matter shadows spread over the interior walls, making Mido flinch somewhat.
"Yes, as you say, 'Nakamura Miki'... no, I should call you as you truly are… Pandora."
With her right eye gleaming bright gold, 'Miki' furrowed her brows. "And yes I believe there's a pretender out there using a Persona with that name."
"It's true. We can confirm that to be the case," Fredegund replied.
"Do you want me to destroy the pretender for you?" Ildikó queried Pandora.
"No, don't bother with that insect. Having earned Hifumi's trust and making her naive friends believe Nakamura Miki is dead, I can continue to use this puppet freely until it's time for me to confront the Phantom Thieves and their Revenant allies," 'Miki' said, floating toward the ceiling as she showed them a screen displaying a fabric distortion between two worlds: Akane-no-Mai and Akane-no-Mai-Vein. "The fabric between fiction and reality is becoming undone. Already, their cognitive presences are surfacing. The Urban Myths from humanity's fictitious stories will cross paths and ally with our enemies soon. This cannot be allowed to stand. We must find our Yami King to help us destroy the Phantom Thieves and the Vein Remnants."
"That will certainly help my Yliasterites. My message has humanity fearing the Revenants. Once we've obtained enough followers to become Yliasterites, there's nothing the Phantom Thieves, the Revenants, and these aforementioned Urban Myths you've alluded to can do anything to halt our progress," Mido proclaimed.
"So, let us commence with the next step, Juzo Mido," Pandora stated as Mido acknowledged her command. She then pivoted toward Ildikó and Fredegund. "And you two, be ready. We have a guest set to land in this reality from another realm. Will you and your subject be ready?"
Nodding, Fredegund earnestly responded. "Yes, we will take care of this grievance for you, Pandora."
Pandora maliciously smirked. "Very good. Now, let us sow the seeds for the coming war… not just any war but our endgame."
Mido added. "My Yliaster Utopia won't be the only development our enemies will face."
"Yes, but also an Ethereal War," Mido, Fredegund, Ildikó, and Pandora declared in unison.
Awakened by Mido's laughter amid the Yami Matter's ominous whispering, the Revenant Hifumi's body tingled from the mere mention of Hifumi's name. She was ready to meet her 'sister'.
Dimension: Akane-no-Mai
On a cool winter's night, a blue butterfly solitarily glided through the air and landed on a signpost near an empty lot. Its presence heralded the arrival of a human soul. Then, a bright white light illuminated the empty lot, pushing away the darkness shrouding the space. Then, a human-like shape appeared from this illuminating light.
Taking a deep breath, the human shape briefly gained her bearings and scanned the foreign environment she landed in. Garbed in Valkyrie-like armor, the young girl felt cool wind brushing against her black neck-length hair.
Weakly muttering, the Valkyrie girl stammered. "...where am I?" And then, she collapsed and fell unconscious.
Looking on from afar, the blue butterfly glided away, witnessing the arrival of a possible new ally for the Phantom Thieves and the Vein Remnants.
Chapter Soundtrack
Shin Megami Tensei V OST - Tokyo - Twilight - - A November to remember.
Happiness is Here! Tokyo Disney 30th Anniversary Theme - Tokyo DisneySea.
Fantasmic! - Full Show Soundtrack (Tokyo DisneySea) Heard in Sound Devices - The group watching Fantasmic! in Tokyo DisneySea.
Two Steps From Hell - Companions (Amaria) - Last song of Book II. The group leaves Tokyo DisneySea with the characters' reflections on Book II before going back home. Afterward, Skyler and his harem have their scene of reflection.
End of Book II: Vestiges of Vein
A/N: Quite a cliffhanger there. Mido preps for revenge and a Revenant Hifumi meets him. Just what the hell's been going on in the Code Vein dimension?
So, all in all, Mido retreats, the Revenants are freed from his control, and a character tragically dies. Now the Thieves and the Revenants have stronger motivation to finish Mido, who now has a Revenant Hifumi as an accomplice.
Scratch that. He has more accomplices. And one higher power he answers to. Miki's servants, Ildikó and Fredegund, have not only appeared, but their master Miki has been revealed to be Pandora, the final antagonist of the original Persona game. Yes, not the Pandora that's Sophie's Persona. This is an aspect of Pandora as a fragment of her survived (so, technically, she's not quite the same Pandora) and thanks to the Yami Matter has manifested into an independent entity. All of this time, Miki was Pandora all along. Well, instead of incorporating her as a last-minute final boss, she's been properly incorporated into the AnM narrative and has a proper build with her connection to Hifumi & Skyler. The Urban Myths and the Ethereal War will be subjects that will be unveiled in Book III's finale.
Sorry, no last-minute Disney MotWs. Although with Disney's recent track record in the 2020s, maybe there should've been, but the gang needed a reprieve after Mido and the Fifth Yami Matter event. Instead, it's just the gang hanging out.
And I leave you with the last scene. A mysterious Valkyrie but not a vampire arrives. Her role will be significant in Book III, especially as it relates to the Vamkyries. The first chapters involve her and then the enemy's next move.
This is the end of Book II and with that, it's the end of a phase for me as a writer. I'll look back and hopefully, I've polished my writing skills. I've been applying said polished skills in my first novel. As of this post, I've finished my first novel draft and will be seeking an editor to glance it over before I consider finding a publisher. My choices are either to find a publisher, turn to self-publishing (already expensive as hell), or digitally publish my book (and with the controversies surrounding AI and copyright abuse, those are other obstacles to overcome). I also know the writing world is competitive and I'll be 'competing' to get my work noticed. Knowing this, I face the harsh reality (Persona 5's Ren reference after his reality's restoration after defeating Maruki) of making or breaking into the writing world. I also realize while I may gain dedicated readers, I understand I'll face 'harsh' (putting it mildly) criticism/scrutiny. Sad but true but we cannot please everyone. Recently, I found a review while I looked up 'Akane no Mai Persona 5' just out of random. I found a review written by someone. It's not long but he does give a lengthy criticism of the story (tbf, it was mostly for the Urban Legends half). At that time, I read it and thought 'am I really a worse writer than Ford?' since I didn't fully write Urban Legend's predecessor Persona Vein. As I sit here, I can say neither Ford nor I are better than the other. Our writing I guess vibes with different people.
Akane no Mai Book II's production was slower than I expected but that's what happens when you're busy with life and writing other stories. This is also a sign I'm near the end of long-term fanfiction writing (i.e. multi-chaptered sagas). Beyond finishing side hobby fics (ex. Digimon Fusion Ascendancy), Akane no Mai is the last long-term 'important' fanfic I'll write. Unlike a few previous stories, AnM was determined to have three books so it doesn't overstay its welcome.
In the previous chapter, Hoyeon (AKA Citizen Kim) was a subject of discussion and played a significant role in shifting a negative narrative toward the Revenants. All that from a minor antagonist. So, Ford followed up with an extensive commentary about his relationship with the real-life Citizen Kim and let out his passionate rant about that asshole. Yep, asshole. Even though I've never met this guy, just based on Ford's account about this mean-spirited creep, I already can't stand this bastard's guts. And Citizen Kim demeaning people with legitimate mental health issues rubs me the wrong way since I've had mental health difficulties. With how he frames himself to be 'superior' to others, all I see is a chickenshit who's afraid of anyone standing up and ready to kick his ass. This reminds me of the cowardly and manipulative bullies who've always talked behind my back and would hang out with a group. Those bully types never have any courage and hang out with like-minded cliques to make themselves feel self-important. I can't forget the kids who pretended to be my friends, manipulated me, and kicked me to the curb. Those incidents made me hesitant to form friendships through the rest of my late elementary and most of my middle school years. Though during high school and college, I was able to make more acquaintances and a few friendships (which are still active today). That said, most of my friendships nowadays are mostly online (though, I've faced a few online assholes on forums that I wish to forget) and some of them have been my closest friends ever. I have no regrets about the online friends that I still talk to. That said, we face hardships in life. I have considered wanting to find and get back at those jackass bullies who tormented me, but I decided to be the better person and move on from them. The best thing we can do is confront the current issues that trouble me and overcome them.
So, there we have it. After over 2.5 years, AnM Book II is closed. When I look back on this, it was an experimental process and my self-discovery as a writer. Going forward, I hope I can deliver consistent updates for Book III. Until then, see you when Book III's prologue is out!