I really gotta stop ordering stuff from Amazon because I can't get stuff on release. Like, I have Spider-Man to play! At least I have Melody of Memory to keep me occupied. Hey, UknownHero here and welcome to another chapter of Senran Persona!

A quick reminded this story is now on Archive of Our Own, with pictures! I'm slowly shaking off my HTML rust so expect a few changes here and there that will enhance your reading experience! There my be even a little more fan service there!

Anyways, to the reviews. To WX-Lazer: Again, we have plans for the Senran girls, including if they're paired with other characters. You'll see soon if we did that. To Vein Bloodborne: 1) Kobayakawa's Palace is not a military base. 2) Uh…I don't know what Zoids is but I think I've heard the name before.

Okay, that's it! Let's set things up.

Load Game…Start!


Chapter 59: Break Down and Build Up


(6/22, Early Morning)

(Yongen-Jaya, Leblanc Attic)

You know, Akira never thought he'd be kneeling down to a cat yelling at him for screwing up his own sleep schedule.

"WHY WERE YOU UP SO LATE!?" Morgana demanded more than asked.

"I'm sorry..." Akira apologised. "I thought I had the time for a quick visit but uh...ended up taking way longer than expected." He then explained.

Morgana couldn't help but sigh like the disappointed parent he was acting like. "...I'm staying with you from now on." He soon decided. "Until you can prove to me you can manage your time properly, I am coming with you. Also, no coffee for you today." He then added.

"What!?" Akira exclaimed in disbelief. Was this really happening to him?

"You must accept the consequences of your actions. And that means staying lethargic the entire day." Morgana stated, causing Akira to groan. Looks like hanging out with Sojiro's out of the picture for today. "Don't worry though, I'll be keeping you awake." He then added in a menacing tone.

"...One of these days, Morgana. One of these days..." Akira mentally promised.

BZZT BZZT!

"Ugh...what now?" Akira groaned out as he looked at his phone. "...Haruka-chan..." He groaned out as he opened the message...and immediately blushed to what he saw.

"Another pic from Haruka?" Morgana guessed as he then looked over his shoulder...only for his nose to bleed like faucets. "GAH!" He yelped out as he fell backwards.

THUD!

The image was that of the blonde, however she was barely wearing anything as syrup was dripping down from her body while she playfully had her tongue out.

"Good morning Akira-kun~ Be sure to eat a good breakfast~ Haruka." Was what the message underneath the image said and advised.

This girl was going to give him a heart attack someday and he knew it.

"S-Syrup..." Akira mumbled out as he could help but stare with widened eyes and his glasses fogging up. "...Would maple syrup taste good in curry?" He soon muttered to himself.

"D-Did Haruka actually send that this time?" Morgana however struggled out with swirls in his eyes and a small trail of blood leaking from his nose.

"She did..." Akira responded with a nod, his head red and steaming. "Well...I guess that's one way to wake me up..." He then admitted. "Is she getting bolder?" He meanwhile thought.

"You...You better delete that or else you'll never get to school." Morgana advised in a strained tone.

Akira silently nodded as he swiftly deleted it...and headed straight for the bathroom.


(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

Another morning, another day to worry about the safety of their friends and continuation of the abuse of power by those who didn't deserve it but were too busy to deal with it because they had homework due in about two hours.

So another day in the life of a Phantom Thief.

However, today was not like any other morning as they had a very rare event happen.

An argument.

"Homu-nee! That was for Akira-kun's sushi!" Asuka exclaimed.

The tan skinned girl's eyes widened in response. "I thought it was normal rice! You don't leave rice out like that overnight!" Homura countered. "S-Someone could turn it into fried rice like I did!" She then added.

"Moh..." Asuka sighed out while shaking her head. "Guess I'll have to make more tomorrow." She then decided.

"Sorry Sis..." Homura soon apologized before taking a bite of her fried rice. "...Even the fried rice is terrible..." She then mumbled.

"That's because you don't make fried rice with sushi rice! Now the wok's sticky..." Asuka declared and sighed once more.

"Erm...maybe you could just use the fried rice for the filling too? It'll cool down by the time we get to school." Homura awkwardly suggested and explained.

"Sushi with fried rice?" Asuka however asked with a raised eyebrow. "Erm...I guess it could work but I never really tried it...Although there are no chances it'll taste good." She replied and admitted.

"I'm sure it'll be fine if it's done right." Homura however encouraged. "Here, let me help to make up for it by helping out." She then offered as she walked over to her roommate.

"Well...ok. But we better do this fast." Asuka replied with a nod as the two got to work, soon preparing their food and heading out.


(6/22, Afternoon)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom)

"Uh..." Mishima got out as the teacher waited patiently for the boy to answer their question.

"He is taking so long..." Homura whispered out as she watched the gears turn in the site admin's head.

"I kinda just want to help him just to continue the lesson, but he's a little too far away." Akira quietly admitted.

"I could deliver the answer to him. But then again, he'll get suspicious of us..." Asuka suggested before quickly writing off the idea.

"I...think I know the answer..." Ann mumbled out as she scratched her head.

BZZT! BZZT!

When that was heard, the group of Thieves took their phones out and joined the group discussion.

[Shut7heFUp: Yo, Makoto. Anything from Kaneshiro we should be worrying about?]

[Road2Queen: He's been demanding money, but I choose to ignore those messages. I'll probably block him later.]

[TheWildJ0ker: No point. Someone like him could easily obtain multiple numbers. You're better off changing yours.]

[SushiRoll23: But if she does, they'll just go after her even harder. They won't rest until her "debt" is paid.]

[Sweetkat06: Is that OK? They're going to find out that you aren't living at your apartment and might just wreck the place as a warning.]

[Sweetkat06: They might even just screw the deadline and just gun for you.]

[All4Painting: No.]

[All4Painting: Kaneshiro has many falsified photos of Makoto at his disposal.]

[All4Painting: Perhaps that advantage is why he doesn't feel any urgency to act.]

[FireGril20: Greed AND arrogance. What a winning combo.]

[FireGirl20: For us to exploit! :3]

[TheWildJ0ker: 'Gluttony'.]

[Sweetkat06: Those photos are seriously bad news for Makoto if they were ever released.]

[Negative8Degrees: Yes. Manipulated or not, it'll make her into a pariah.]

[Negative8Degrees: We will need to change Kaneshiro's heart as soon as possible.]

[Road2Queen: Agreed. I will do everything I can to help.]

[SushiRoll23: On your call, Akira-kun.]

"Uh..." Mishima continued to drone out as the Thieves put away their phones.

"You don't have all day, Mishima..." The teacher got out.

"I-I got it. Just give me a sec." Mishima assured...before continuing to drone on. Maybe staying up drinking Monster Energy fighting off all the haters was a bad idea.

"He's still going!?" The Thieves in the classroom simultaneously thought in an incredulous tone.

BZZT! BZZT!

The Leader then looked to see a new message and who the sender was. "Why are you sending photos in the middle of class!?" Akira thought in a panic as he stuffed his phone into his pocket while the other Thieves suddenly felt guilty for some reason.


(6/22, After School)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom)

As soon as classes ended, the ash blonde left while the others decided to stay and hang out for a little bit.

"...And that's why I really hoped my Super Secret Animal would be a T-Rex!" Asuka happily concluded.

"...What're we even talking about?" Ryuji questioned in a thoroughly confused manner.

"I dunno." Homura replied with a shrug. "I mean, I sort of just got bored and tried to change the subject but uh...I think the subject changed way too much to begin with." She then muttered out.

"You guys are getting really relaxed." Morgana meanwhile remarked.

"Is it better than constantly watching your back and looking way more suspicious?" Akira pointed out. "Besides, we have ways of having eyes on the back of our heads." He then added as his eyes flashed gold.

"So true." Homura replied in agreement as her eyes flashed crimson.

"Why didn't this benefactor guy give us all that sixth sense thing?" Ryuji lamented with a groan.

"I dunno." Asuka replied while shrugging her shoulders. "Caroline-chan might have the answer though." She then added.

"You know, I always forget you can see them." Akira awkwardly admitted.

"Loli paradise." Homura however quipped out.

"There are only two!"Akira exclaimed. "You know, discounting the lady who sings and possibly the pianist!" He then muttered.

"Hehe. Pianist." Ryuji chuckled out.

"...The fate of the world. Relying on six year olds." Morgana sighed out in disappointment.

BZZT! BZZT!

"Hm?" Akira hummed out as he took out his phone to see the reminder from earlier. "...Oh no..." He muttered with a pale face as he saw who it was and opened the message...and his head was completely red and steaming once more as a result.

The image was that of the blonde in an open button white shirt with her pink bra and her cleavage showing, a black mini skirt that showed her panties and black heels as she was relaxing on the desk with a ruler in her hands.

"Be sure to study nice and hard Akira-kun~ Haruka." Was what the message underneath the image said and advised.

"Y-Yes sensei..." Akira unintentionally got out in a dazed manner.

The others meanwhile looked at their friend in confusion.

"Dude, what was that?" Ryuji asked, causing the Leader to snap out of his daze and quickly hide his phone.

"Um...my doctor is requesting me to visit!" Akira panickingly responded. "I uh...need to head to the bathroom real quick! My...My bladder is full of so much piss!" He then informed before quickly rushing out of the room.

"...Huh, he must've really needed to go." Asuka innocently remarked.

"That's...not what it looked like to me." Ryuji awkwardly admitted.

SLAP!

"Ugh, it must've been Haruka again..." Homura however groaned out her realization in embarrassment while palming her face.

"Isn't she the chick that kidnapped Akira the other day?" Ryuji asked in a whisper.

That caused the tan skinned girl to nod in response. "Yeah, the one that uses her body as a weapon. She's like a succubus, but only teased to mess with others. But I swear, this is too much even for her." Homura replied and explained.

"...So how hot are we talkin' exactly?" Ryuji then asked.

"I am going to set your pants on fire right now if you don't shut up." Homura bluntly declared.

"Uh...duly noted." Ryuji awkwardly responded. "I'm gonna head out and get somethin' to eat." He then decided before leaving.

"Yeah, you go ahead and run." Homura grumbled out as she got up from her desk. "I'm gonna go study in the library for a bit." She soon decided. "See you at home Sis." She then added.

"Ok Homu-nee." Asuka replied as she watched her roommate leave.

BZZT! BZZT!

At that moment, the Vice Leader took out her phone as she answered the call. "Hey Ann-chan, what's up? I was just about to head out for the agency." Asuka asked and informed.

"Eeeeeeeeee!" A familiar voice squealed out.

"A-Ann-chan!?" Asuka got out in a panic.

"Sorry, I just...I got in! I'm going to be a model on the runway show!" Ann soon apologized and revealed.

"That's amazing, Ann-chan! Congratulations on getting picked!" Asuka got out in a happy tone.

"Thanks! You better hurry to the agency, Asuka-chan!" Ann soon replied. "Koikito-san's wants to meet in person!" She then added.

"Hai, I'll be there right away!" Asuka replied, heading out right away.

"And that just leaves the two of us." Morgana stated as he popped out of the Leader's bag just as the man of the hour returned. "What are you going to do today?" He soon asked.

"...Takemi's." Akira answered with a nod while picking up his bag.

"Are you sure?" Morgana however questioned while narrowing his eyes. "Haruka might also be there as well." He then reminded.

"Yes." Akira answered instantly. "I wanted to visit Takemi yesterday, so I'm doing so now. She was really sad the other day and I just can't stand that." He then stated as he headed out of the classroom.

"You really care for your friends, don't you?" Morgana remarked.

"After losing all of mine once, I'm not letting that happen again." Akira declared, checking the time for the next train to Yongen-Jaya.


(Library)

The tan skinned girl soon entered the library as she immediately heard mutters from the students already in there.

"Here she comes. We better leave."

"Dude, she's not gonna kill someone...hopefully."

"Yeah, but don't you guys remember what happened after the volleyball rally? She's way more dangerous than the tusk seller."

"Maybe she didn't trust Kamoshida to begin with?"

"She was telling that guy to suck Kamoshida's dick!"

"She's a nuke ready to explode."

"I'm not gonna lose that psycho stigma anytime soon, am I?" Homura thought with a groan.

"Ah, Homura-san. Over here." A familiar voice called out.

To hear that, the tan skinned girl smiled as she then noticed the owner of the voice. "Oh, good afternoon Makoto-senpai." Homura greeted as she then noticed her friend reading something. "What are you reading about?" She soon asked in a curious manner as she sat herself down.

"Guns." Makoto casually answered as she put down the magazine. "It's a weapons catalogue. My six shooter felt a little uncomfortable fanning it, so I'm looking into getting one easier on the hands." She then revealed and explained.

"Despite our guns all being model ones?" Homura however reminded.

"Why is that a factor?" Makoto asked. "It's made of metal and the hammer hurts a little to use. Just because it doesn't fire real bullets doesn't mean I'd rather have something that fits my hand a little better." She then explained and stated.

"I guess that's true, I honestly didn't feel anything with my guns." Homura replied and admitted.

"That's because you use submachine guns. You don't have to pull back the hammer to fire every single shot." Makoto replied as she then got her notebook out. "I'm also looking into getting some tekko. The brass knuckles I have are a little too small for me." She then added.

"Well usually Akira takes care of that stuff for us so you should put it up with him." Homura suggested.

"Of course, I was just hoping to lessen the burden on Akira-kun, if only a bit." Makoto admitted. "Also Homura-san, isn't it uncomfortable using six katanas at once?" She then asked.

"Nope. Self trained that way." Homura responded while shaking her head. "Wanna surpass Miyamoto Musashi after all." She then briefly explained.

"I think you already did that though." Makoto however confessed with a smile.

"Thank you, but there is always more room for improvement." Homura replied. "One day I'll figure out how to wield six guns..." She soon muttered as she then glanced towards the exit. "Uh...I think I can see your council members spying on you." She suddenly informed in a whisper.

That in turn caused Makoto to raise an eyebrow. "Really?" She questioned in a curious manner. "Well, I guess suddenly hanging out with the local outcasts is bound to raise some red flags..." She then admitted.

"So they're concerned for your well-being?" Homura guessed before smiling. "See, not everyone hates you here." She then added in an encouraging tone.

"I...really was depressed then..." Makoto awkwardly admitted with an embarrassed blush. "And I know a lot of students don't trust me, but...I have you guys now. So who cares what they think. As long as they're safe and sound, I can rest easy." She soon informed.

"But it would be nice though..." Homura soon confessed. "Ann has people talking to her after the King got kicked out of the castle, but even after they're either talking behind our backs or asking us for dates. Never a civil conversation." She then explained with a sigh.

"At least you get asked for dates." Makoto muttered, confusing the tan skinned girl as she started blushing. "U-Uh, not that I'm looking for someone or anything. Just...too busy with studying and all." She then explained in a flustered manner.

"Aw, is Makoto-senpai getting lonely?" Homura teasingly asked. "Come on, anyone would kill to be with someone awesome like you. Just give it time." She then encouraged.

"Well...are you planning to get married, Homura-san?" Makoto suddenly asked.

"W-Where did that question come from!?" Homura squeaked out in a flustered manner.

"I don't know, it just sort of came out!" Makoto responded with a blush on her face.

Upon hearing that, Homura was able to calm herself down as she sighed. "Well...In my line of work...we don't exactly have the best job security." She quietly began. "It's always been fighting for me, so I never really thought about it. But now...I do want to have a legacy to leave behind. I mean, if I had the chance and found someone I never want to let go, I'll probably marry them in like a few months or something." She then explained.

"A few months? That's really fast." Makoto repeated and pointed out.

"I know, but...you never know what will happen." Homura replied with a shrug. "I feel like I have to live life as fast as possible because I don't think I'll ever have the chance to, you know?" She then explained and asked.

"And you're telling me to take my time..." Makoto mumbled out.

"That's because you have something I don't..." Homura revealed. "If this whole...thing is over, you still have a normal life to fall back on." She soon stated. "However for me, Sis and Yumi-senpai...we'll all be risking our lives on a daily basis by the next day." She then informed. "And I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world but...what if, you know?" She confessed and asked.

"What if...what exactly Homura-san?" Makoto hesitantly asked.

"What if I never became...you know what I'm saying." Homura sighed out before looking around. "People could be listening after all." She then whispered.

"Ah, right." Makoto whispered back. "Well...you're not acting as one now, you're currently a student like everyone else. Maybe if you weren't, you would just be like me and the others." She then suggested.

"Yeah, that's the obvious answer." Homura mumbled out. "I'm just sure if I would enjoy it or not..." She then admitted. "Because despite everything I've gone through...I love the thrill. I may have mellowed out, but I will always be that badass bitch screaming her head off as I charge into an army of bad guys." She added.

"So you don't enjoy being a normal student?" Makoto soon asked.

"I mean I do, but I still want adrenaline pumping through my veins." Homura replied and admitted. "Heh, maybe that's why I love being part of the group. I get the best of both worlds." She then added in amusement. "...So, are you planning to get married?" She soon asked.

"H-How about we study a bit?" Makoto however suggested as she began to blush. "You did well for the last exams, but as you said, there is always more room for improvement." She then added.

"I would like that Makoto-senpai." Homura replied with a smile. "I don't want to cheat this time so let's do this!" She then declared.

"...You cheated?" Makoto soon questioned.

"Uh, er...Sis helped me with one question but that was it!" Homura confessed in a panicked manner.

"I'll allow it, you are my friend and I do not want you to fall behind." Makoto replied. "But if that ever happens again, you're going to have a nice, long and friendly chat with Johanna." She then advised.

"Noted." Homura squeaked out. "With you helping me out, I'm not gonna need to in the future." She then added.

"Then let's begin. I expect you to get a higher grade next time." Makoto replied, the tan skinned girl nodding in response as the two got to studying.

As she studied, Homura felt that her Knowledge was increasing as a result. Also while hanging out with her friend, she felt her Maturity increasing as well.

"I see, so that is how you solve this equation. I had some difficulty with it during the exams." Homura replied and confessed in a fascinated manner.

"It always gets a fair few people Homura-san." Makoto revealed. "But just remember it and you should be fine for finals." She soon explained in a reassuring manner. "We should study together more often in the future." She then suggested.

"We should. But probably after we take care of that little problem with Shibuya." Homura replied and reminded.

"Your right." Makoto responded in agreement before narrowing her eyes. "We'll crush his bank and him to pieces." She then declared.

"You know...metaphorically." Homura added. "But yeah, I wanna crush him too Makoto-senpai." She soon confessed.

Makoto nodded as she clenched her hands into fists. "I'm gonna enjoy stealing his heart." She soon growled.

The two soon kept chatting as they continued on with their studying until they eventually decided to leave the school.


(Yongen-Jaya, Clinic)

Akira knew he had to see Takemi today. He was just too worried about her after Oyamada's visit last time and he couldn't help himself from wanting to make her feel better.

"Another visit to the doctor?" Morgana asked.

"Don't worry, it won't take all night like last time." Akira assured before entering the clinic, only to see the doctor at the front desk, also noticing the lack of the familiar blonde. "Haruka-san's not in today?" He soon asked as he looked around.

"I sent her to do some busy work." Tae answered before letting out a sigh. "...Don't tell her, but I might be letting her go soon. She'd be better off working somewhere else..." She then admitted.

Akira frowned. That didn't sound good for anyone. "...I want to do a test." He soon requested.

"Oh, the clinical trial...Sorry, I'm going to pass on it today..." Takemi then mumbled out.

"Takemi's seriously depressed..." Akira thought with concern. "Alright, Charm, don't fail me now!" He then thought in a more serious tone.

Soon, his Charismatic levels of Charm broke through the doctor's stubborn heart, allowing him access to Takemi's true thoughts.

"Actually, I...need to talk to you." Tae admitted. "Since this might be the last time..." She then revealed.

That sounded ominous. And dangerous. He had to know.

"You can trust me with anything." Akira promised.

"Okay then." Tae got out as she stood up and opened the door into her office. "Come in." She then requested.


(Consultation Room)

Akira and Tae sat in silence, the doctor deep in thought as the glasses-wearing boy was already trying to figure out how to help the woman.

"Hey..." Tae finally spoke up, snapping Akira out of his thoughts. "I'm thinking about resigning." She soon revealed.

"What!?" Akira gasped out. "You...You're...Why?" He hesitantly questioned.

"Several of my suppliers have stated that they're going to stop selling to me. If I can't get my hands on medical supplies, I won't be able to get what I need to complete the new medicine." Takemi answered. "They're probably being pressured by Oyamada to stop doing business with me. So I figured it's over." She then explained.

"But...What about all the other people suffering from Crawford-Ende's!? Are you really okay with this!?" Akira called out.

"It's fine." Tae sighed out as she gave the boy something...a copy of a death certificate of one Miwa Hanako. "I confirmed with the hospital Miwa-chan was being treated at...and Oyamada was telling the truth. Miwa-chan was apparently smiling until the very end. She probably didn't want to worry anyone." She then stated, her voice cracking. "I wish I could've cured her...I didn't want fame or money. All I wanted...was to keep her smiling..." She soon confessed.

In response, Akira's eyes widened as he saw tears edging out of the doctor's eyes.

He'd never seen her like this.

"This isn't just about her though...I was going to help every single person suffering from that disease!" Tae declared before slumping down in her seat. "I was a sickly child when I was young too...I was always in the hospital...and was rarely well enough to attend school at all. Medicine was all that kept me alive. That's why I wanted to become a doctor...So I could save people, just like I was saved..." She soon explained and revealed.

Akira looked down. There had to be something he could do. He actually hoped Miwa-chan was alive and the bastard was just lying, but that death certificate shattered that notion.

"But I guess this is where it ends...The medical industry is a business, after all, and the chief decides what's best for it. I'm all out of allies..." Tae mumbled out.

"No. You're not." Akira stated as he looked at the doctor straight in the eyes. "You have me and Haruka-san after all." He then reminded.

"Heh, cheeky little guinea pig..." Takemi giggled out. "But yeah, you're right. I don't trust Haruka enough yet though. You are my one and only confidant...I really appreciate everything you've done. My practice increased thanks to your nosiness, and in the end, I felt like a real doctor again." She then admitted. "So...thank you." She soon added.

"And what about your patients?" Akira however asked.

"...There are plenty of other small-town doctors." Takemi waved off before letting out a sigh. "This is where it ends... .Although it frustrates me...I can't do clinical trials anymore, so you can go home. Thanks again for all your help. And good luck on those entrance exams." She then thanked the boy.

"...Is there really nothing I can do?" Akira thought with a frown...before his eyes drifted over to his pocket.

Well...it wouldn't hurt to try this at least once.

"...What is Oyamada's first name?" Akira suddenly asked.

Tae narrowed her eyes as she looked at her soon-to-be former patient. "Hm? Why do you want to know? You're not planning on doing anything to him, are you?" She soon asked in an accusatory tone.

"It's for research." Akira casually lied.

"...You're a weird kid..." Tae stated.

"As I have been told before." Akira admitted with a small smile. "Now, who is he?" He asked once more.

Letting out a sigh, the doctor decided it couldn't hurt. "His full name is Shoichi Oyamada. He's a very influential Chief of-" Tae began.

"No. Only his name." Akira interrupted as he stood up. "I already know enough about him." He then assured.

"Well...Okay then. I'll keep my end of the bargain and make sure all my patients are in good health before I shut this place down for good." Tae soon promised. "I'll see you around...Kurusu-san." She then added.

"Yeah...I'll see you soon, Doctor Takemi." Akira replied as he headed for the door, not wanting the doctor to see the rebellious look in his eyes. "With Shoichi Oyamada's heart." He mentally declared.

A distance away, Haruka watched as the boy started leaving the clinic. "Hey." She greeted.

"Not now, Haruka." Akira responded, nearly going past the girl only to be stopped by her.

"It's not like that this time, Akira-kun..." Haruka however responded. "I heard everything..." She soon revealed.

"Haven't you ever heard of patient-doctor confidentiality or do you like spying on people?" Akira questioned, starting to look annoyed.

"...Sorry..." Haruka however gained an ashamed expression in response. "How can I help Takemi-sensei?" She soon offered.

"You can start by stopping sending photos. I need to focus." Akira requested in a somewhat harsh tone.

"...Sorry..." Haruka apologized once again in shame.

Akira in turn sighed as he looked straight at the girl with a more gentle expression. He was letting out his anger of the man wrecking his doctor's life on someone who didn't even deserve it. "Don't get me wrong Haruka-san, you are a beautiful young woman, but with what's going on with Takemi, it really isn't the time, ok?" He soon confessed and explained.

"...Right. I understand." Haruka replied. "Hm...Maybe I could go and...liberate some medical supplies." She then suggested.

"No, Takemi will get suspicious and could get the both of you in a lot of trouble." Akira stated. "Things will work out, I promise." He then assured.

To that, Haruka nodded as she gently hugged the boy, knowing that he was trying to keep them safe in a way. "Ok, I'll trust you." She replied before leaning forward.

CHU!

And kissed the boy's cheek. "Sorry, I couldn't help myself that time." Haruka confessed. "I know you might not like me...but you have this air about you..." She then vaguely explained.

"Yeah, I've been told that before." Akira responded. "Now if you'll excuse me...I need to call my maid." He then got out as he headed for Leblanc.

"Sure." Haruka replied with a love struck expression on her face before blinking in realization. "...Wait, what?" She soon asked.

"Take care of Takemi!" Akira soon requested.

"Ah, right!" Haruka got out as she refocused herself and headed back into the clinic. She had her own work to do.

Akira meanwhile had the same neutral expression on his face before it relaxed into a smile."Ok, when Haruka-chan's like that and isn't a flirt, it's cute." He mentally admitted as he made it back.


(Aoyama, Modeling Agency)

The Vice Leader had practically skipped all the way to the agency, feeling really good about today. It felt like these last few days had been wonderful with Makoto joining the Thieves and...well, mostly the whole Makoto being a Phantom Thief thing but it felt like nothing could ruin her happy mood.

As soon as she arrived, she headed up to her manager's office and knocked on the door. "I'm here!" Asuka called out.

"A-Ah, Shirokage-chan." Her manager got out in surprise, obviously not expecting her to be here so soon.

"Hello, Kokito-san!" Asuka greeted as she went into the office. "Did you hear Ann-chan got into that runway show?" She then asked.

"Y-Yeah, I was the one who told her." Kokito muttered out as he scratched the back of his neck.

"Oh, right." Asuka sheepishly replied while rubbing the back of her. "I guess you called me here to give me some news then? Because I'm ready to do some modelling after-" She then started, however...

"Asuka-chan!" Kokito started, interrupting the brunette.

"Hm?" Asuka hummed out while tilting her head in an innocent manner.

"I'm...I'm sorry Asuka-chan, but you just weren't what they were looking for." Kokito informed in a regretful tone.

CRACK!

"W-What?" Asuka stammered in shock.

"It's a trend in Tokyo to use foreign models rather than Japanese ones. You're also on the shorter side." Kokito lamented. "I'm sorry, I feel like it's my fault. I thought you were a shoe-in, you even impressed the lead designer! But...I guess he was overruled." He then apologized and explained.

Why did this hurt?

"I...I see..." Asuka hesitantly responded.

"Don't worry, there's always next time." Kokito reassured. "I'm going to get you on the front cover next time. I promise." He then added to his reassurance. "Why don't you go home for today? I'll make sure to pay you for your time." He soon suggested and offered.

Please stop.

"Don't let this get you down. There's always next time." Kokito once more reassured.

Stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop stop.

"Asuka-chan?" Kokito called out in concern.

"I..." The brunette tried to say something, anything...but came up with nothing.

So she ran out of the office.

"A-Asuka-chan!" Kokito called out in a panic to the action.

"Don't cry. Don't cry." Asuka mentally told herself. "Why are you crying over this? I-It's just a...a..." She then added in her head, however...

"Well well well, if it isn't Shirokage." A cocky female voice remarked in a cocky and snide manner.

"No no no, not you. Not today." Asuka mentally got out as she looked up to see the familiar auburn haired model and her groupies.

"Guess who's on the runway?" Ranze got out with a winning smile, only to see the brunette's struggling face."Oh...just looking at your face, I think I can assume who isn't." She then remarked.

"Of course she wouldn't get in."

"Nothing personal, kid. It's just natural."

"Nice try. Do you need to go potty, though?"

"H-Hey! Get away from her Ranze!" Ann called out, noticing the girls taunting the distraught her friend.

"Oh, I'm sorry Takamaki. Just telling the newbie to know her place. Let's go girls. Bye bye Shirokage~" Ranze got out as she and her group left to celebrate their victory.

"Newbie, my ass..." Ann grumbled out in anger and disgust before turning to her depressed friend. "Asuka-chan, you okay?" She soon asked in concern.

The brunette however shook her head in response. "I...I didn't get in Ann-chan..." Asuka sighed out her reveal.

The blonde's eyes however widened to that. "Excuse me?" Ann asked in disbelief.

"Kokito-san said...they said I wasn't what they were looking for." Asuka mumbled out.

"You...Th-They WHAT!?" Ann exclaimed.

"I-It's okay, Ann-chan. I wasn't expecting to get in so don't worry about it." Asuka tried to placate her friend, but she just...couldn't do it and clutched onto the ash blonde.

"Why...Why does this hurt so much..." Asuka thought to herself.

"Let's go sit down." Ann suggested, getting a nod in response as they two headed for and sat down at a nearby bench.

"Moh...I need Leblanc coffee..." Asuka sighed out.

"Hey come on now Asuka-chan." Ann responded while rubbing her friend's back. "I've been rejected for shoots sometimes too, it happens." She then revealed.

"Still, I really got my hopes up there..." Asuka sighed out. "What was I thinking? I just started, no way they'd let me on the stage." She then admitted.

"I-It's not that big of a deal, Asuka-chan." Ann however got out. "It's just a popularity contest." She then added.

"You don't have to lie to me, Ann-chan." Asuka got out. "I can tell. You're just saying that to make me feel better." She soon stated.

"...Is it working?" Ann awkwardly asked.

"It's making me feel worse." Asuka confessed with another sigh. "...It was just a thing we did for the hell of it...but why does it feel like my world is crumbling around me...? Was I pushing my luck?" She then revealed and asked.

Ann however shook her head to that while narrowing her eyes. "...No, you weren't. It's not luck. You work just as hard as everyone else, if not harder every time you came in for a shoot." She declared. "Besides...if you're not in it, neither am I." She soon decided.

This however surprised the brunette. "What!?" Asuka exclaimed in shock. "B-But why? This is your chance..." She then questioned and reminded.

"Eh...I know I've been getting you into modelling but to me it's like a hobby. I don't mind." Ann sheepishly admitted and explained.

"Ann-chan..." Asuka whispered out.

"God, the judges must be blind to reject you though." Ann muttered out, annoyed to this happening to her friend. "Come on, let's go get some crepes for the way home. I'll tell Kokito-san tomorrow that I'm not going to be part of the runway show." She soon suggested and informed.

"...Ok. You go and hold my place, I just need to rest a little more." Asuka replied and requested. Sweets did sound good at the moment.

"Alright." Ann replied with a nod.

As soon as the ash blonde left, however, Asuka just let out a groan. "Moh! She shouldn't do that just for me! It's not worth it!" She thought to herself. "But...I'd feel like I would hate her if she just went through with it...Gah! Stop it, Asuka! Come on! She's your friend and she cares about you but I don't want to be the burden here!" She then reminded herself while shaking her head.

"...Maybe I should take a break from modelling..." Asuka muttered out. "...But wouldn't that be like giving up?" She then asked herself. "N-No, it would just be a little break. Let's focus on studying, Thief stuff, training...yeah, that sounds...sounds so much like giving up..." She mumbled out. "...Hmm, what would Homu-nee and the others say?" She then wondered.

"Come on Sis, don't let this get to y! Fight back already!" Imaginary Homura encouraged.

"You know, the first step to improving yourself is knowing when to quit." Imaginary...Morgana(?) stated.

"Yeah, the both of us won't judge you." Imaginary...Okay, who the hell was that?

"Wait a minute!" Asuka yelped out before noticing a familiar auburn haired girl and her posse were speaking into their phones with a voice changer app activated right next to her. "Ranze!? Why are you...one, that's not how my friends sound like! And two! I have more than two friends!" She soon declared in rising frustration while glaring at the group. "Know what, yeah! Like hell I'm gonna give up! I'm a strong willed and sexy girl! I'm not going to let this one bump get to me!" She added while glaring at the group. "So stop harassing me OR I'LL CALL HR ON YOU RIGHT AWAY!" She then demanded in anger.

Instantly, everyone went silent as all the models and staff stared at Asuka who slowly began to realise how loud she was. "S-Sorry..." She meekly mumbled out while bowing to everyone else.

"You don't-" Ranze started, however...

"Ranze. Setsuki-san from HR who is also a model." One of the groupies whispered, interrupting the auburn haired girl. "She will have us fired for harassment if she hears about this. Not to mention Shirokage's already friends with her." She then added and reminded.

"...Oh shhhh...schnitzel berries..." Ranze swore under her breath before glaring at Asuka. "You win this round! But I'm still on the runway and you're not!" She soon declared and reminded once more.

"...Do I know a Setsuki-chan? I might have to see her face again to remember..." Asuka meanwhile mumbled to herself before shaking her head.

Now wasn't the time for that!

"In any case, I just gotta keep getting better as a model! No more mopey Asuka or Homu-nee will be depressed too!" Asuka decided in a determined manner. "Just a bump in the road of life, just take what you can-" She soon began self encouraging herself to regain her confidence, however...

"Ah, bonjour Bijou Chatoyany," A familiar, French-accented voice greeted. "I've been looking everywhere for you." He then informed.

"O-OREO-GAH! I mean, Oren-san!" Asuka yelped out while instinctively saluting the man before realising that probably wasn't the best greeting. "G-Good afternoon sir!" She politely stammered out with a respectful bow.

The international fashion designer kept the neutral expression as he adjusted his sunglasses while looking at the gir. "Calm down." Oren soon requested.

To that, Asuka gulped, but soon took in a deep breath to do as requested. "I apologize Oren-san." She soon apologized before blinking. "Wait a minute, why are you here sir? Shouldn't you be preparing for the runway show?" She soon asked with a tilt of her head.

"I am indeed with the preparations," Oren replied before giving the girl a smile. "However as I mentioned, I also wished to see you." He then revealed.

Asuka in response blinked to that. "Eh? Really?" She replied in a curious manner.

"Because I see a spark in you that can flower into a star. The world is your stage, but you need to grow to compliment it." Oren then continued.

"Oh, thank you sir, though I am still new as a model." Asuka replied and admitted with a sheepish blush on her face.

The international fashion designer nodded to that in an understanding manner. "Exactly. You have potential." Oren soon revealed. "...Which is why I wish for you to be the first out on the runway, by my personal recommendation." He then informed the girl.

"Eh?" Asuka got out, not sure if she was hearing this right. "A-Are you saying...I-I'm...in? She hesitantly asked just to make sure she heard right.

Was this actually happening to her just moments after being told she wasn't going to be in?

"Well, if it isn't apparent enough already, yes you are in." Oren soon confirmed.

This immediately caused the girl's mind to race like crazy, though she made sure not to show it. "A-Are you sure? I-It's not just because of my figure is it?" Asuka soon asked in an uneasy tone to make sure while shifting her body uncomfortably.

"No. Actually, I think you're a little too on the curvy side for my tastes." Oren admitted, causing the girl to wince. "But there is the potential to become a star but I acknowledge you still have a ways to go. So as a personal request, I want you to go on and learn! I want you to show me I am not wrong so once you step onto that runway as you radiate brighter than the sun!"

The Vice Leader's eyes widened to hearing the reasoning before eventually nodding. "H-Hai!" Asuka responded with renewed determination, feeling as though her Diligence was growing as a result.

"The show is at the end of summer, so you have time to prepare and further improve yourself. Waste no effort and become one of the greats by that time." Oren informed.

"End of Summer, that's around September 21st." Asuka muttered to herself. "So I should completely dedicate myself to this Oren-san?" She soon asked. "I mean I have my studies and all." She then explained.

"Non non non, there is more to life than modelling." Oren stated. "You're still young. So live life as best you can." He then added.

To that, the girl nodded as she took in this information. "Any other advice then sir?" Asuka soon asked.

"Keep true to who you are and never force yourself or let others rattle you." Oren concluded with a serious tone while adjusting his glasses.

"...But I already know that..." Asuka awkwardly muttered out as she poked her fingers together.

The man in turn sighed to hear that. "Listen mademoiselle, I'm an international fashion designer, not a fortune cookie." Oren soon reminded in amusement. "I will let your manager know you are in and he will give you more (and probably better) advice the next time you see him." He soon informed.

"Hai, and thank you again Oren-san." Asuka replied in a grateful manner. "I won't let you down! I'm gonna prove I'm a great model that's worth being on the runway!" She then declared before gasping. "Ah, I totally forgot about Ann-chan! I gotta go!" She soon got out before running to the building exit.

Meanwhile, Oren smiled as he watched the retreating girl. "Strive mademoiselle, strive as you push yourself." He whispered to himself before walking off...to steal some food from catering before meeting with the girl's manager.


(6/22, Evening)

(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

The tan skinned girl was preparing dinner as sweat was running down her body from the intense heat from the flames. "Woo! Now we're cooking with fire!" Homura joked with a smirk before sweatdropping. "...Ugh...that was bad even for me." She then admitted in an awkward manner.

WHOOSH!

At that moment, the door opened and closed quickly as a blur entered the apartment before...

GLOMP!

"HOMU-NEE!" Asuka happily and excitedly exclaimed as she hugged the tan skinned girl. "THIS WAS THE BEST DAY EVER!" She then declared.

"Whoa! What's with the hug!?" Homura exclaimed before wrapping her arms around her roommate. "I mean, I don't mind but hugs like this don't happen when you're just happy to be home."

"I GOT IN HOMU-NEE!" Asuka excitedly declared.

"Oh!" Homura replied...before realizing she had no idea what her roommate was talking about. "...Uh...do you mind reminding me of the thing I should be happy about?" She awkwardly asked.

"The runway show audition that me and Ann-chan were part of!" Asuka reminded. "At first I was rejected, but then the head of the entire thing came and personally requested me to be part of the show!" She then revealed in an excited manner.

"Oh, that! Congrats Sis!" Homura realized and replied in a proud manner. "Though whoever rejected you in the first place must be blind." She then added.

Asuka in turn giggled to that. "That's what Ann-chan said!" She soon revealed before giving off a rebellious smirk. "Take that Ranze! You and your bitchy groupies aren't stopping me now!" She then declared.

"Ranze?" Homura however repeated with a raised eyebrow. "Wait...is she a bully Sis?" She then questioned.

Asuka in turn winced to that. "Right, I never told Homu-nee..." She mentally remembered. "...Well she does try to discourage me as a model just cause I'm a newbie..." She mumbled out.

This however relaxed the tan skinned girl. "Aw, she's just jealous of how cute and sexy you are~" Homura responded in an encouraging manner. "You should use that to your advantage and expose her as the bitch she is." She then suggested with a rebellious grin on her face.

"I don't think she's hiding it though." Asuka stated with a shake of her head. "She's a terrible person, but at least she's honest about herself." She soon revealed.

"Too bad. A little Shadow beatdown would be pretty satisfying." Homura admitted.

"Yeah..." Asuka replied in agreement.

"Oh! How much are you going to be paid for doing this!?" Homura had to ask as yen signs appeared in her eyes.

"9,000 to 10,000 yen!" Asuka excitedly answered.

CRACK!

"I...I sort of expected it to be more..." Homura awkwardly admitted, feeling her heart sink a bit.

Asuka in turn giggled to that. "Well I'm not a professional model yet, Homu-nee. I'm a part-timer so it wouldn't make sense to give me a full pay for one. Though that's just a rough estimate, so it might be more." She soon explained. "Plus, it's more money for us and the Phantom Budget!" She then added.

"But more so for you, you deserve it Sis." Homura replied. "And who cares about the money. You're...You're gonna be..." She began before it really hit her. "Holy shit you're gonna become famous..." She soon breathed out in realization.

"You still have your hang-ups about that, Homu-nee?" Asuka guessed in concern.

"...Look, remember what I said." Homura however advised with her own concern.

Asuka in turn nodded. "I know Homu-nee, I'm a big girl and a shinobi. Hiding in plain sight doing something no one would expect a shinobi to be." She replied in a serious tone. "It will be fine." She then reassured.

Homura nodded in response to that. "Yeah...I keep telling myself that, but hearing it from you makes it a little more believable." She soon admitted before smirking. "I mean, you are my cute and sexy Sis after all. You're gonna knock them dead!" She then reminded in an encouraging tone.

Asuka simply giggled. "Hehe, thanks Homu-nee." She replied before looking at the dish the tan skinned girl was cooking. "Oh, you're almost finished cooking." She soon informed. "Steak tonight?" She then guessed.

"Stir-fry steak that was kneaded with honey for flavor with vegetables with a variety of spices mixed in." Homura replied in a professional manner.

Asuka immediately drooled to the thought. "You really should be a chef Homu-nee." She replied as she made herself comfortable before going to set the table.


(Shinjuku, New Moon Apartment Complex)

The temporary roommates had arrived earlier as the Kosei Student Council President was in the bathroom washing herself off while the Shujin Student Council President was preparing dinner for the two of them while the television was on.

"On Discovery! Town Detectives! We visit the Sky Tower, the new landmark in Asakusa."

"Wow, we're really high up! The view from the observation deck feels like you're walking on air!"

"I'm afraid of heights, so the street stalls in Asakusa might be a better fit for me...Hahaha."

"I should really go there with Asuka-san..." Makoto muttered to herself as she cooked dinner. "I think she mentioned that she used to live in the Asakusa district." She then added before frowning. "How long is she going to shower...?" She soon wondered.

However, at that moment, the Kosei Student Council exited the bathroom with nothing but a towel on.

However, Makoto noticed that she looked a little dry for someone who just finished a shower. "Yumi-san, you spent a while in the bathroom. Was everything okay?" She questioned in concern.

"No, I'm...I'm training." Yumi revealed. "It requires a safe and quiet place and after my shower I thought it would be a perfect place to do so." She then explained.

"Ah. Something shinobi-related then?" Makoto deducted.

"Hai, you could say that." Yumi replied in a relaxed manner as she pulled up her towel a little. It seemed a little...silly but she could feel it working.

BZZT! BZZT!

"Here." Makoto got out as she tossed the light grey haired girl's phone over to her as she pulled out her own.

[SushiRoll23: Are there any updates from Kaneshiro?]

[Road2Queen: Not really. Just more threats.]

[Road2Queen: There's no point in worrying about it. Soon enough, those threats will be nothing but empty promises.]

[Shut7heFUp: Hey, I've been thinking.]

[Shut7heFUp: Even if we do take down Kaneshiro, won't someone replace him? I've seen crime flicks and they usually have someone trying to take their place.]

[Negative8Degrees: Well, we don't know how big Kaneshiro's mafia truly is. It is entirely possible that Kaneshiro may be more willing to expose the identities of his members and locations once he has a change of heart though.]

[Sweetkat06: I guess that's the problem for the police to take care of, not us.]

[FireGirl20: Plus, if they're still trying to rob people, we'll just steal it all back and then some.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Let's put a pin on that for now. This is supposed to be our little break before we break into the Palace.]

[TheWildJ0ker: So, anything personal to report?]

[Sweetkat06: Weeeeell, me and Asuka-chan are gonna be busy on September 21st.]

(...)

[Negative8Degrees: That is a pretty specific day.]

[Shut7heFUp: What? Is that your super period day?]

[Road2Queen: That's your first guess?]

[Shut7heFUp: ...Oh shit, is it your birthdays!?]

[SushiRoll23: No no, it's the runway thing! The one Ann-chan and I auditioned for!]

[Shut7heFUp: ...What?]

[All4Painting: I don't think you ever mentioned it before to us...]

[Sweetkat06: Well we didn't know if we would get chosen. ^^"]

[TheWildJ0ker: Oh, so you're both in?]

[SushiRoll23: Moh! Akira-kun! I wanted to build up some suspense!]

[SushiRoll23: But yes, we got in.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Congratulations Ann, Asuka.]

[Negative8Degrees: Appearing on the runway for the fashion world is quite the achievement.]

[Shut7heFUp: Dude, I've seen some of the shit models are made to wear online.]

[Shut7heFUp: So send pictures of the worst ones you see there.]

[All4Painting: I have heard that some models go international if they perform well enough.]

[Sweetkat06: Not really interested.]

[Shut7heFUp: So quick to respond.]

[Sweetkat06: I like travelling as much as the next person, but my home is here with you guys.]

[SushiRoll23: Aw that's sweet of you, Ann-chan!]

[Road2Queen: Well, if either you decide to go, we won't stop you.]

[FireGirl20: No! Sis has to stay with me for forever and ever!]

[Shut7heFUp: Clingy~]

[FireGirl20: Sister like!]

[Road2Queen: Why do I have the feeling you're hugging Asuka-san right now?]

[SushiRoll23: thatsbecausesheishelpme]

[TheWildJ0ker: In any case, be prepared.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Tomorrow, we head in.]

[Shut7heFUp: Alright! Been waiting for this!]

[SushiRoll23: Got it, meet at our place tomorrow. We'll prepare some food before going to the bank.]

[FireGirl20: Makoto-senpai, make sure no one recognizes you when you come, so wear the hoodie with the hood up.]

(...)

[FireGirl20: With clothes on underneath it I mean.]

[Road2Queen: My shirt was in the wash Homura-san!]

[Road2Queen: But I'll bring a change of clothes with me to school.]

[Road2Queen: Kaneshiro's heart is already ours.]

"Jeez, did Homura-san have to bring that up in the end..." Makoto mumbled in embarrassment.

"It is nothing to be ashamed of Makoto-san," Yumi assured. "Shame will only leave you vulnerable, which the enemy will use to their advantage. Which is why shinobi train to fight in various states of undress."

"...Shinobis have no real shame, do they?" Makoto however guessed in a fascinated tone.

"We can't afford to. Not when our lives are on the line." Yumi soon responded. "We even have last resort techniques that leave us with little else but our underwear, or even nothing at all at the most desperate as it powers us up to perform even more incredible feats." She then revealed in a no nonsense tone.

"...Whoever developed these shinobi techniques must be quite the pervert." Makoto remarked in a deadpan tone.

"Male shinobi must deal with such things as well." Yumi however revealed.

"Do you know any?" Makoto soon asked.

"Yes. My grandfather." Yumu answered instantly. However, she quickly began to notice the look of horror, disgust and disbelief on her temporary roommate's face. "...Why are you giving me such a look?" She soon questioned.

"Just...attempting to erase the mental image I just made." Makoto answered.

"Eh?" Yumi innocently got out in confusion.

"Let's...just eat dinner before heading to bed for night." Makoto soon suggested.

"Hai. We have a big day ahead of us." Yumi replied in agreement as her fellow Student Council President finished cooking dinner while she went to get dressed in her pajamas. "So Makoto-san, are you prepared for a long day full of bloodshed and robbery?" She then questioned.

"Heh, sounds like fun." Makoto replied with a rebellious smirk.

Tomorrow was gonna be a good day for the Priestess...


Save Game…Quit!


Asuka/Yin's Social Stats:

Leadership- Outspoken (Level 2)

Knowledge- Informed (Level 2)

Proficiency- Decent (Level 2)

Diligence- Persistent (Level 2) → Strong (Level 3)

Courage- Brave (Level 3)

Homura/Yang's Development Stats:

Maturity- Adolescence (Level 2) → Managed (Level 3)

Knowledge- Learned (Level 2) → Expert (Level 3)

Femininity- Effeminate (Level 2)

Elegance- Disciplined (Level 3)

Understanding- Generous (Level 3)


Whew! Done! We're gonna split up the Palace part into two parts because we have barely written anything for it and Akira's gonna do it in one day. This will be fun for the Thieves. Especially that combo lock thing where I completely forgot to steal one piece and had to look up a guide to figure it out. So expect the shinobi to do something the Thieves couldn't: Cheat.

UknownHero signing off, my friends!