Hello everyone! UknownHero here and welcome to another chapter of Senran Persona! Where twisting the knife is just another term for character growth.

Senran Persona: Ninjas of Hearts has a TV Tropes page! There are tropes in the previous chapters and not just the current ones!

Onto the reviews! To a random Guest: You're a pervert. And…now I have to look up Makoto's canon size now…God I've Googled so much weird shit over the years. To mchin33g: Unfortunately, this story will not feature Violet or the Third Semester. That'll be saved for another fic. To Autistic-Grizzly: Thank you! In actuality, the performance was based on the reveal of Persona 5's true nature at a concert in Japan. To calderoneric758: Well…I don't know what to do with Haruka. I personally want her to remain friends and let go of her feelings but I know you guys like it too much. I dunno, we'll figure something out.

Anyways, that's it! Time to grieve!

Load Game…Start!


Chapter 102: Growth with Grief


(8/31, Early Morning)

(Shinjuku, New Moon Apartment Complex)

Yumi yawned as she unlocked the door to her apartment and headed in. Rise had driven her back in a car with tinted windows, allowing her to return home in peace without anyone following her. After all, who would think that an idol would live in a depressingly small apartment only a few minutes away from the Red Light District of all places?

But finally, after all that excitement, she could finally relax and process that after months of work, her goal was now within reach. It might take a few years, but from now on until her career ends, she is gonna work on creating her grandfather's ideal world.

As both a shinobi and as an idol.

It seemed she missed a few things. Calls from her sisters back at home, and a text conversation from the Thieves. She tried calling back, but it seemed that their batteries were dead or they were out of range of any reception.

Assuming they were busy, Yumi opened up the IM.

[Shut7heFUp: So the more famous we get, the more Mementos opens up, yeah?]

[Sweetkat06: Yup. I wonder why though. Does Morgana know anything?]

[TheWildJ0ker: He says doesn't remember.]

[Road2Queen: I see...Then there's no way for us to find out.]

[SushiRoll23: That's okay, Morgana-chan. Maybe some things are out of our reach.]

[DarkEyeXI: Dammit, the guys who destroyed Futaba's mom's research probably kept a copy for themselves. They might know more about the Metaverse than us.]

[FireGirl20: They do have a two year head start, even with Morgana's knowledge.]

[All4Painting: It will likely become clear if we continue as the Phantom Thieves. The most important thing now is the identity of that criminal using the Metaverse.]

[Alibaba9: That might be the person who killed my mom! I'm gonna find them, no matter what it takes.]

[SushiRoll23: And we'll help any way we can!]

[DarkEyeXI: And...we'll let you decide what we do with them.]

(...)

[Alibaba9: ...We're not gonna...end them, but at least make sure they pay.]

[Road2Queen: You know, we used to be lacking in quite a few areas...But now that we have Futaba helping us, a great number of possibilities are now available.]

[All4Painting: Yes, we gained a fantastic addition to our team in the most unexpected manner.]

[Alibaba9: Aw, you're making me blush!]

[Sweetkat06: We'll be counting on you, Futaba!]

[SushiRoll23: We'll do this together!]

[DarkEyeXI: And keep you safe.]

[Shut7heFUp: I can't wait for you to see Mementos!]

[All4Painting: Hm...Yumi-senpai doesn't seem to be online...]

[SushiRoll23: I wonder what she's doing.]

"Hehehe..." Yumi giggled as she then checked a more recent conversation from the same night. She must've been deep into the afterparty when they started talking to each other.

[FireGirl20: Saw the concert on TV last night!]

[FireGirl20: That was amazing, Yumi-senpai! Especially with that Phantom thing.]

[Road2Queen: It was indeed a surprise Yumi.]

[SushiRoll23: Moh! Why didn't you tell me!?]

[Sweetkat06: Hehe, surprise!]

[Shut7heFUp: Holy shit, I know an idol!]

[All4Painting: Hm? Did I miss something?]

[Shut7heFUp: Seriously, man?]

[DarkEyeXI: WHY WAS AKIRA THERE]

[TheWildJ0ker: What?]

[DarkEyeXI: WHY WERE YOU THERE]

[TheWildJ0ker: I don't know what you're talking about.]

[DarkEyeXI: i hate you]

Yumi immediately giggled while reading this, happy that her friends were supportive of her. Well, things are going to be looking up from now on.

THUD!

And then she collapsed, asleep and dead to the world, because she had been up all night singing and dancing, celebrating her debut at the afterparty, talking with her fans and dealing with all the news outlets.

School is going to be very interesting for her tomorrow.


(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

Asuka and Homura had already cleaned up and ate by the time the sun rose up. Right now, they were in the middle of picking something to wear for today.

"Moh! I'm still upset you didn't tell me about Yumi-chan's debut!" Asuka declared with a pout and a puffed up cheek.

"Hehe, sorry Sis." Homura giggled while rubbing her sister's head. "Wanted it to be a surprise for you. Plus, it is kinda her fault for not sending us tickets." She then explained in a playful manner.

"Is she doing any more shows?" Asuka had to ask as she put on her sundress.

"Maybe in the future. But her debut was a one time thing." Homura answered as she checked her phone. "At least her debut concert is being officially uploaded online. We will need to pay for the full thing though." She then informed.

"Yeah. That's great." Asuka breathed out as she glanced over her sister's shoulder to see her scrolling through all the pictures of the debut, stopping at an image of Yuki Yumi and the mysterious Phantom pointing finger guns at each other's heads. "...I wonder who the Phantom was that crashed Yumi-chan's first song..." She then playfully wondered.

"...Are you being serious Sis?" Homura bluntly asked.

"Nope!" Asuka responded with a joking smile. "That looked so fun to dance and sing on stage. Hehehe...maybe I might give it a try." She then said.

"Hey, models can be idols too. And you do have a nice voice..." Homura reminded and complimented.

"Thanks, but I'm already doing so much already." Asuka muttered while shaking her head. "...Oh God, school is tomorrow, huh?" She remembered.

"It is." Homura responded with a nod. "So let's make sure that our last day...lasts." She then declared with a fist pump.

"Hai! So, what do you want to do today?" Asuka replied and asked.

"Heading to the school, make sure it's not falling apart at the seams. You know how Principal Globass runs things." Homura answered with a shrug.

"Ain't that the truth." Asuka giggled as she pulled out her phone and scrolled through her contacts. "Well...I'm gonna call Ann-chan and see if we can shop for some new clothes." She soon decided.

"Don't we have enough?" Homura got out in concern...right before letting out a smirk. "Oh, who am I kidding? It's never enough!" She soon stated before shifting to a slightly more serious expression. "You might wanna look into getting additional luggage too. Packing all those clothes for home is gonna be a bitch with the bags we brought." She then suggested.

"I will." Asuka responded with a nod before checking her bank account. "Well, maybe later." She then added.

"Right." Homura replied with a nod. "Well, I'm gonna head out now." She then decided as she made her way to the door.

"See you later!" Asuka responded, watching her sister leave before taking out her phone and began calling the ash blonde. "Hey, Ann-chan! Good morning!" She happily greeted.

"Uuughh..." Ann groaned. Looks like she was just asleep. "Asuka-chan, I wanna sleep in a few more hours. Call me later." She sleepily got out before lazily trying to tap the Hang Up button.

"No, wait! Don't hang up!" Asuka responded in a panic before taking a breath. "I was wondering if you wanted to go shopping today as one last hurrah of summer." She then requested.

"We've gone shopping a lot this summer." Ann muttered, her sleep-addled brain probably trying to figure out if this was a good idea. "But...I will need to prepare for the fall season..." She then mumbled to herself.

"Great! So, wanna meet at the Underground Mall?"

"Sure, just give me a few minutes...or hours..." The ash blonde mumbled before finally finding the button.

"Okay! Bye!" Asuka responded, ignoring the fact that she was now talking to no one before grabbing her shoes.

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

"Hm?" Asuka hummed out in a curious manner before going to the door, opening to reveal the white haired woman awkwardly fidgeting around.

"Hey." Miyabi casually greeted.

Instinctively, Asuka gave a respectable bow. "Good day Miyabi-sensei." She politely replied.

Miyabi in response nodded. "At ease, my student." She ordered with a raised hand. "I heard you were going out shopping with Ann." She then stated.

"Eh!? How did you-" Asuka began to ask before realizing. "Oh right, thin walls." She added in a sheepish manner.

"Yeah." Miyabi responded with a nod. "So...would you mind bringing me along? I have some money burning a hole in my pocket right now..." She then requested and admitted.

"Eh, you want to go shopping with me and Ann-chan?" Asuka asked, slightly surprised by the request.

The white haired woman however narrowed her eyes to that. "Is that a problem Asuka?" She countered with her own question as she crossed her arms over her chest.

Asuka however shook her head to that. "N-No, not at all Miyabi-sensei." She replied. "Is there any reason why?" She then asked.

"...I want to see if it's alright for me to wear more...feminine clothing..." Miyabi awkwardly revealed with a blush.

"...That's it?" Asuka got out, blinking. "Homu-neechan already went through this problem before, so it should be too hard this time around. I mean, it's only clothes. That shouldn't change anything about you, only how you look to other people."

"And that's the point." Miyabi sighed out.

"Miyabi-sensei...the only people who should care about your appearance are yourself." Asuka soon stated.

"Yeah, so that's why I'm coming!" Miyabi declared as she grabbed the Vice Leader's shoulders and began shaking her in a frantic manner. "I NEED! TO LOOK LIKE! A WOMAN!" She then got out in a desperate manner.

"Please...stop...shaking...me...!" Asuka struggled out.

"CAN I COME!?" The white haired woman soon screamed.

"Yes..." Asuka managed to get out, dizzy with swirls in her eyes.

"Thank you! We'll walk to the station together!" Miyabi declared before dropping the girl on her unstable feet.

"Okay..." Asuka replied before stumbling into a wall. "Ow." She winced.

"Train station's that way, Vice Leader." Miyabi sighed out as she took the brunette's hand.

"Thank you sensei." Asuka groaned before the white haired woman guided her out of the building.


(Hebijo Base)

SLURP!

"Aaaahhhh..." Murasaki breathed out as she drank the last of her ramen broth. As much as she needed to eat healthy, she just couldn't let her instant ramen supply gather too much dust. Plus, she actually added some toppings to balance it out a little.

"Never thought raw tomato was a topping." Bebeby admitted. "Or pears. Or carrots." The plushie added with a sweatdrop.

"It...was nice." Murasaki sighed out in relief.

"Well, it's been mostly the same thing every day since you came." Bebeby then remarked. "Hopefully that'll change soon enough." She then added.

The purplette blinked as the gears in her brain turned. "DEAD END AEGIS IS RELEASING TODAY!" Murasaki cried out...right before sitting her butt back down. "...In 12 hours." She then realized in relief.

"Not even a midnight release..." Bebeby grumbled. "Such a wasted opportunity to have nerds and losers camp outside game stores. This event is a commercial mess!" The plushie ranted.

"Mou..." Murasaki groaned as she shifted in her seat. "Why did it have to be outside..." She grumbled.

"Oi, don't revert back to your loser self! That bitch was a loser! Come on, you've been training for this!" Bebeby scolded. "You might even meet him." She then added.

"...Positive reinforcement? That's rare coming from you." Murasaki remarked.

"I just want what's best for you, even if it means calling you a big-breasted idiot if it gets you out of bed."

"Oh be quiet Bebeby, I'm going to work out for a bit." Murasaki decided as she began walking over to another part of the base.

"Just don't die before the game comes out!" Bebeby warned as the purplette began a much lighter workout.


(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

The four Gessen Elites shuffled into the room. Quiet, emotionless, barely able to see color.

It had been exactly 10 hours since Kurokage passed away and they had not slept a wink.

Being a shinobi meant accepting death. While it came for all, a shinobi must steel themselves for it at an early age either to shield themselves from the emotional blow from the death of a loved one, or to peacefully pass on when there was no other choice on a mission.

But this...this left one of the biggest holes in their hearts ever since their parents died.

Shiki let out a sigh as she sat on the couch. "...What a night."

"Is that all you have to say?" Murakumo got out with a growl.

"What else do you want to hear?" Shiki countered as she narrowed her eyes. "I think I cried it all out in the hospital."

Meanwhile, Minori remained silent. After crying and screaming until her throat was hoarse at the hospital, she had not made a noise. Not even a sniffle or a footstep.

The acting leader soon pulled out her phone and tried to call the actual leader, but after several tries she still didn't pick up. "Yumi, why didn't you answer your phone?" Yozakura muttered in concern.

"I'm sure there's a logical explanation." Murakumo sighed as she grabbed the TV remote. Maybe something mind-numbing or humorous will allow her to take her mind off the inevitable funeral they would have to plan. "She is doing something really important that can change the shinobi world, and bringing her phone or receiving calls might ruin her chances. She might be infiltrating a base, fighting in a Kekkai, seducing a target if it really gets to that point..."

"Debut as an idol." Shiki spoke up.

"Okay, that's just ridiculous." The masked girl scoffed as she rolled her eyes.

The fashionista however shook her head. "No. Look at the TV."

"What?" Murakumo blinked under her mask before turning...only to see a very nervous yet happy Yumi on the screen.

"We managed to catch an interview with the latest talent coming from Takura Productions; Yuki Yumi."

"H-Hello."

"...EEEEEEEEEH!? Y-Yumi!?" Murakumo exclaimed, her mask falling off her face.

"...Didn't expect to see that this morning." Shiki got out, eyes widened and her face frozen in disbelief.

"I would like to thank my sisters and my friends, but especially my grandfather for giving me the motivation to pursue this path to better the world!" Yumi informed the interviewer, her grin infectious to those who weren't feeling like they were thrown aside/forgotten about/completely broken from the death of a loved one.

Minori instantly burst into tears at the mention of their grandfather.

"...This...This can't be happening...this can't be real..." Yozakura muttered as she felt her world falling apart (again). "This must be some sort of sleep-deprived hallucination!" She then declared.

PINCH!

"Ow!" Yozakura yelped.

"You're not dreaming." Murakumo confirmed. "And I'm not dreaming. So...So that means..."

"...That's not her." Shiki concluded as she stood up from the couch.

"Eh?" The two third years got out at the same time.

"Th-That cannot be Yumi-chii because she isn't like that at all." Shiki denied and reminded. "I mean, this thing was probably filmed ages ago." She then added.

"And that was Yuki Yumi from yesterday night, after her debut concert. Quite possibly her happiest moment in her life." The interviewer informed with his ever-winning smile, completely missing the dry heave Yumi was doing in the background after having just survived her first live interview. "The highlights of the event will be uploaded on the Takura Productions website, and members will be able to see the entire thing at a later date."

"...I feel like the universe hates us." Shiki deadpanned.

"D'OH!" Yozakura meanwhile got out as she palmed her head. "So this was why you didn't respond..." She then muttered.

"...So she ran off to be an idol?" Murakumo whispered, her body shaking with rage.

"We...We don't know if that's true..." Yozakura responded.

"Then why the fuck is she on TV in the first place!? A shinobi must remain out of the public eye and this is far beyond being beneath notice!" Murakumo snapped. "And why didn't she tell us!? Is she really abandoning us for this bullshit!?"

"..."

"..."

"..."

"...My mask is off, isn't it?" Murakumo suddenly realized.

The other nodded in unison.

"...Eep." Murakumo yelped, scrambling to get her mask back on.


(8/31, Daytime)

(Shibuya, Underground Mall)

Ann yawned before taking a sip of her coffee, her eyes scanning through the crowd of the underground mall. To be honest, she was not planning on going outside today but it was the last day of summer. She may as well hang out with someone before going back home and finishing up the last of her homework.

"Oh, she's over there! Hey, Ann-chan!" A familiar voice called out and greeted.

The ash blonde focused her gaze over to the source of the voice and spotted the brunette waving over to her...along with the white haired woman downing a protein shake. "Huh? Miyabi?" Ann got out with a raised eyebrow. "What are you doing here?" She soon asked.

"She wanted to come." Asuka answered with a shrug.

"Really? You don't seem like the type." Ann asked and admitted with a raised eyebrow.

"Ann, I think you've said that to Homu-neechan too." Asuka pointed out in amusement.

"Sorry, still sleepy. All these shopping trips are starting to blur together." Ann yawned.

"Yeah, yeah. Whatever." Miyabi waved off in an impatient manner. "Can we go and start shopping?" She requested.

"Sure." Ann replied as she finished the last of her coffee. "Have any stores in mind?" She soon asked.

"Anything that could give me a more feminine look." Miyabi immediately responded.

"Well there's P & E, Peach Jolyne, One Spot, DURUA, PUNYES, noreru pignon, SHBY, Swanmakeout..." Ann listed off.

"That's seriously all from the top of your head." Miyabi remarked with a sweatdrop. "Uh...I guess P & E?" She uneasily decided.

"Ooh! Love that place! Let's go!" Ann declared as she began dragging the white haired woman.

"O-Oi!" Miyabi stammered as she was being taken.

"Hehehehe..." Asuka giggled before following the two. She couldn't help but notice that the ash blonde had gotten a little faster. "Looks like all the training is paying off." She thought to herself.

By the time they arrived, Ann was instantly putting clothes in the white haired woman's arms. "This one looks cute. This one makes your butt stand out a little more. This one shows off your legs. This one matches your eyes. This one matches your hair. And this one goes really well with a wine glass in your hands." She soon began rambling while listing the details of each outfit.

Miyabi meanwhile had swirls in her eyes to all the information she was getting. "I have no idea what you're telling me right now." She got out in a dizzy tone.

"Ann-chan's natural talent is in fashion!" Asuka pointed out. "...Studying on the other hand..." She then mumbled.

"I did fine on my exams!" Ann insisted before speeding off to find more outfits.

"Um, should I head to a dressing room at some point?" Miyabi meanwhile asked.

"Feel free to take Miyabi-chan to the dressing room Asuka-chan!" Ann called out as she kept looking around.

"I will!" Asuka responded as she took the white haired woman's arm and began taking her to the dressing room. "Come on, Miyabi-chan. How many outfits are you planning to get?" She soon asked.

"Um...one?" Miyabi awkwardly answered, not really thinking much of it.

"That won't do, you know." Ann bluntly stated with a gleam in her eyes.

"I just wanted to pick something that makes me look like a girl, not replace my entire closet." Miyabi countered. "...And why does Ann look like a predator now?" She soon asked.

"There's a sale here." Asuka simply revealed. "Now get in there!" She then ordered.

"Hey, stop pushing me around- WHOA!" Miyabi exclaimed as she pushed into the dressing room. "I feel like I'm the child here!" She then complained.

"Then that must mean I'm the senpai right now!" Ann called out once more.

"HEY! QUIET DOWN! THIS IS A CALM ESTABLISHMENT!" A masculine voice shouted out that was most likely the owner and manager of the store.

"S-Sorry." Asuka squeaked in response.

The owner coughed. "Thank you for understanding." The small, usually soft spoken woman responded, her face having a light dusting of red.

"Okay..." Miyabi murmured before taking off her pants. "But this better be good. And feminine!" She then added.

"We promise!" Asuka replied from outside the dressing room. "...Now...do I need a new outfit...?" She soon wondered.

"Nope." Ann advised as she walked over to the Vice Leader. "At least, not until the next season rolls around. This place is still selling this season's fashion." She then informed.

"We could always go to another store." Asuka suggested as she sat down at a nearby bench.

"We might, but I don't want to spend all day shopping." Ann admitted as she stretched her limbs.

"Why?" Asuka innocently asked with a head tilt.

"Homework." Ann simply answered with a sigh of shame.

"Ah." Asuka responded with a nod of understanding.

"Have you finished yours?" Ann soon asked.

"Yep!" Asuka confidently replied with hands on her hips...before thinking and getting worried. "...But I probably should double-check just in case." She then mumbled.

The ash blonde giggled as she nudged her friend in the shoulder. "You can never be too paranoid given our lives." Ann reminded.

"Too true." Asuka agreed with a nod just as they heard something coming from the dressing room. "Miyabi-chan, are you done?" She called out.

"Yeah. Just...wow." Miyabi got out, an impressed tone in her voice.

"Come on, let's see it!" Ann eventually ordered in an encouraging tone.

"So...how does it look?" Miyabi asked as she came out of the dressing room wearing a dark purple skin tight dress.

"Wow! That dress looks amazing on you!" Asuka praised with stars in her eyes.

Hearing that praise, the white haired woman blushed in a flustered manner. "R-Really?" Miyabi asked in a curious yet meek tone.

"Yeah, you look like a cool, mature woman in that dress, Miyabi-chan." Ann then informed with a smile.

"Yep! You totally look like a girl." Asuka assured.

"T-Thanks." Miyabi mumbled out as she pulled her dress down a little, covering her thighs a little more but enhancing her chest. "Ugh, but it feels like this dress is gonna ride up and show my butt to the world." She then complained.

"Eh?" Asuka got out in surprise. "Don't you mean your panties?" She then corrected.

"You don't take off your underwear when you try on stuff?" Miyabi questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"...Get back inside and put on some damn underwear." Ann ordered in a deadpan tone.

"Okay, okay." Miyabi mumbled as she went back into the changing room

"Hehe, Miyabi-sensei is so silly sometimes." Asuka thought to herself before the woman came back out a minute later.

"Ok, that feels a little better." Miyabi had to admit in a relieved tone. "I think this'll do for now." She concluded in approval.

"That's great!" Ann got out in relief.

"How much does it cost?" Asuka meanwhile asked as the woman patted herself down to look for the tag before pulling it up to see it.

"Hoooly shit..." Miyabi got out as she looked at the price tag. "That's way too many zeroes." She soon muttered in a depressed manner.

"A-Are you crying, Miyabi-chan?" Asuka asked in concern before checking the price tag once again. "There are only four zeroes here. 20,000 yen." She then informed.

"I can't just drop 20,000 on something that isn't food!" Miyabi insisted.

"Uh, you know we can pay for you right?" Ann then offered.

"But that'll just put me in more debt..." Miyabi then muttered as she dropped her head in a depressed manner.

"Y-You don't owe us anything. It's what friends are for." Asuka assured. "And you can use some time to relax, sensei." She then whispered.

"This is my time to relax, you're just stressing me out by being too generous!" Miyabi called out before crossing her arms over her breasts. "You guys have gone out shopping a lot. How have you not run out of money?" She pointed out and asked.

"Having jobs." The two models answered at the same time.

"Yeah, cool. But have you ever heard of spending limits?" Miyabi pointed out. "I swear, you guys just buy whatever you want. It's going to bite you in the ass someday." She then warned.

"Don't worry. If we run out of money, then a quick trip to Mementos will set us up for a while!" Asuka got out in a happy tone.

"And when are we going to this Mementos?" Miyabi however asked.

The models blinked. "...Later." Asuka answered. "Come on, Ann-chan! Let's buy this for her!" She soon decided with enthusiasm.

"Yep." Ann replied with a nod of agreement..

"Ugh..." Miyabi groaned. "You know, I would've been happy to go to a secondhand shop..." She muttered.

"You're the one who chose P & E!" Asuka reminded.

"...Good point." Miyabi sighed out. "I'm just...not exactly used to others treating me like this." She then admitted in an awkward tone.

"You've made that clear before today." Asuka reminded. "It's okay. We'll make sure you will." She reassured with a smile.

"Thanks. But stop spending so much. Money doesn't buy friendship." Miyabi advised.

"It's fine. Now, what do you wanna eat afterwards? Crepes? Ice cream? Cupcakes?" Asuka soon asked, her eyes sparkling.

"Beef bowl." Miyabi answered.

BZZT! BZZT!

"Hold that thought." Miyabi requested as she took out her phone.

[Alibaba9: Hey Miyabi. You should come to Tsukishima and try out this sushi, it's awesome!]

[Alibaba9 has uploaded a picture: "SushiWithTheFam"]

[TheWildJ0ker: Futaba, don't text while eating. You don't want to choke like earlier, do you?]

[Alibaba9: You're not my big brother, Joker!]

[TheWildJ0ker: Oh, I can be!]

[Alibaba9: Is that a threat?]

[TheWildJ0ker: I can make it one if you're willing.]

[DarkEyeXI: You two are made for each other...]

[DarkEyeXI: Damn, now I want sushi...]

[DarkEyeXI: I'm out with Asuka and Ann. Maybe they might be up for sushi for lunch.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Miyabi, it's Asuka. She practically breathes sushi.]

(...)

[TheWildJ0ker: Uhh...actually, you probably shouldn't come. The bill was 120,000 yen.]

[TheWildJ0ker: I don't think we'll be getting any to-go. Looks like Morgana will be getting the leftovers.]

[DarkEyeXI: Ouch.]

[Alibaba9: Why can't you pay for it? I know you're practically pooping out cash.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Well, the tank is starting to run empty.]

[DarkEyeXI: Ew.]

[DarkEyeXI: Why are you texting me all this!?]

[DarkEyeXI: You guys are right next to each other!]

[Aliababa9: Because calling would be rude.]

[Alibaba9: And so we can go here next time.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Just don't wolf down all that sushi like today, okay?]

[Alibaba9: Hey, I need to rebuild my strength. The fact I'm eating so much should be an accomplishment and a blessing!]

[TheWildJ0ker: Ah, we better log off. We're leaving.]

[Alibaba9: See you later, Miyabi.]

"What was that?" Ann asked as Miyabi put away her phone.

"Akira and Futaba are having sushi for lunch." the white haired woman answered as she pocketed her phone. "Maybe we can buy some for home." She soon suggested.

"Or I could make you some." Asuka offered.

"...I would be a hypocrite if I said we could always just buy some." Miyabi sighed before nodding. "Alright, let's go back home and make some sushi." She decided.

"Sure. Come on, Ann-chan. We'll have a little sushi party for lunch!" Asuka happily cheered.

"Sounds good." Ann replied before her mind began to wander to the crepes shop at Central Street. "Um...but maybe a few crepes..." She then mumbled, her eyes glazing over a little.

"Hey, aren't you on a diet?" Miyabi reminded, snapping the girl out of her thoughts. "No cheating. If you can't run around the block without breaking a sweat, you'll never stand a chance against a shinobi." She then stated in a serious tone.

Ann however sighed in response. "I know, I know. Homura drilled that into me." She replied.

"Good. Now come on, before the sun sets today." Miyabi responded and stated.

"Paying for the clothes first then sushi." Asuka replied as she forced the white haired woman back into the changing room.


(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

"I'm gonna bring her back." Murakumo suddenly declared.

"Eh?" The girls got out in confusion.

"I'm gonna drag her ass back here, kick her ass, bury her along with grandfather for a few hours, dig her out, kick her ass again and then break every damn limb so she never leaves." The masked girl growled as she cracked her knuckles.

"Murakumo-chii...?" Shiki got out in concern.

"If that is what she calls doing her damn mission, she shouldn't be a shinobi in the first place!" Murakumo declared before slamming her cleaver into the ground.

"Don't ruin the flooring!" Yozakura scolded. "And we are not breaking every limb on Yumi's body!" She then ordered.

"But what else can we do!?" Shiki countered. "Her mission is too important, and we all know the stupid council will have something to say about it, even if it's to visit her grandfather!" She then pointed out. "She just spent all the goodwill I had for her. She is coming back, whether she likes it or not!" She soon declared.

"Yumi is our leader and ally!" Yozakura reminded. "How little goodwill did you have!?" She then asked in an accusing manner.

"I would lay my life down for her, but if she isn't the same I'm afraid we're at an impasse!" Murakumo declared as she and the acting leader glared at each other.

However at that moment...

"EVERYONE STOP FIGHTING!" Minori suddenly screamed, getting the attention of the others as she then began whimpering with tears in her eyes. "J-Jii-chan wouldn't want this!" She reminded.

"How do you know? He's not here to play with you, is he!?" Murakumo called out. "...Okay, that was too far."

"You think?" Yozakura responded in disapproval.

However, instead of crying, Minori stood her ground. "We...We can't...just do this because Yumi-chan is doing that now! She...She wouldn't abandon us just like this!" She soon declared in anger as she stomped her foot.

"But we don't know what she's been doing, or if she changed."

"Yumi-chan isn't like that. She won't just change without a good reason!" Minori stated. "You're acting like she was planning this from the beginning!" She then accused.

"..."

"YUMI-CHAN WOULD NEVER, EVER ABANDON US!" Minori soon declared. "YOU'RE ALL BEING SO...SO...STUPID!" She then added and insulted.

Everyone went quiet, contemplating the youngest's words. To be yelled at by the most childish member made them feel so...guilty.

"So...what would make her become an idol?" Shiki eventually asked with a raised eyebrow.


(Shujin Academy, Courtyard)

Homura was stretching her arms out in a relaxed manner as she looked at the sunny sky. "Man, this feels peaceful." She muttered in satisfaction.

It was really more the same from last time, although now all the teachers were back, ensuring everything was good for the next semester starting tomorrow. She hadn't seen Principal Psychofuckstick anywhere though, and she was quite glad.

There would be nothing stopping her from serving his flabby ass on a platter.

"Hehe, that piggy's gonna be roasted some day." Homura thought in amusement.

As she leaned back on the bench, there was a shadow coming up from behind her and covering her eyes.

"Guess who?" A familiar voice asked with a giggle.

Homura however giggled as well in response. "Hikari." She playfully replied.

"Yep. How did you know?" Hikari giggled as she removed her hands from the tan skinned girl's eyes.

"'I'm good with recognizing people's voices." Homura simply explained as she then noticed something about her committee member.

"So you managed to recognize my voice. I can definitely use that for my next story." Hikari nodded as she jots down her next story plans.

"Hehe, nice hat." Homura meanwhile complimented.

"Oh, thanks. I'm glad you noticed." Hikari smiled as she tilted the red beret on her head. "My dad got this hat for my birthday the other day. Really suits me, huh?" She revealed and asked.

"It really does Hikari-san. And uh, happy birthday." Homura replied with a nod of approval. "It fits you. Definitely going for the classic look, huh." She then added with a smirk as she framed the girl with her fingers.

"Yep, they sure do and I'm glad to wear it. Now I feel like a real artist." Hikari agrees with a smile "So you just out here relaxing, Homura-chan? There are certainly better places to hang out at than Shujin." She then asked.

"The school's nicer without all the people running around. I like it, I just wished I discovered it sooner." Homura pointed out. "So some relaxation is needed." She then added.

"Yeah, that's true. Since we now run this school, thanks to you and Niijima-senpai taking it away from that fat tub of lard we call our principal." Hikari agreed.

Homura however cringed a little at that. She didn't not like thinking about ruling the school as if they're royalty.

"I'm really wondering how the hell someone like him got approved to be the principal is beyond me. He hasn't done anything to keep this school going other than making himself look good." Hikari then added.

"Honestly, who knows or cares at this point?" Homura however replied with a smirk. "He is on his way out. I bet by next week he'll be out of our hair."

"So true. So true." Hikari replied with a nod and her own smirk.

"Between us, Makoto-senpai and Ikki-sensei are making sure all physical education is back on track, things at Shujin are looking to be much better." Homura then added.

"I can definitely see that. Even though Ikki-sensei is pretty brutal with her teaching, I'd say she's the best there is." Hikari responded with a nod of agreement. "Even Ryo-kun is feeling relieved that the school is now looking better than before. I guess it makes sense since he's more connected to the school than the rest of us." She then stated.

"Yeah." Homura replied in agreement. "But besides that Hikari, did you need something from me?" She soon asked in a curious manner.

"You can say that." Hikari answered. "I did come here to ask you for something." She then informed.

"Is it something mangaka related?" Homura guessed.

"Yep. It sure is." Hikari nodded, "I was wondering if you can model a more risqué image for my next manga." She then requested.

To that, Homura blinked as she looked at her committee member. "How...risqué are we talking exactly?" She hesitantly questioned in a more serious tone.

"Nothing too serious, just a little bit of fan service for my next piece." Hikari replied. "Say like you're in a position where your panties are shown in their full glory and your top has been torn to shreds and you have to cover her breasts with your arm. At the same time, you're fighting what seems to be a losing battle, but you managed to hang on just long enough for you to make your escape." She explained in detail.

Homura however raised an eyebrow to that very descriptive explanation. "I...would only be used as a base right? It won't actually be me?" She then asked in an uneasy tone.

"Yeah, just as a base. I need someone to help me work on this next piece and you were the perfect model for it." Hikari replied. "And don't worry, it won't actually be you. Just your likeness and then some." She then added with assurance.

That caused Homura to sigh in relief.

"What? You didn't honestly think I'd be actually using you for my next piece, did you?" Hikari asked as she raised an eyebrow.

"Well some people can be too passionate about their work sometimes." Homura pointed out.

"I guess that makes sense, but I know when not to get too much into my work." Hikari responded in an understanding tone. "I know when to keep it in check so that I won't cause any trouble for the person I use as a base." She then informed.

"Good to hear." Homura replied with a nod of approval. "I guess I can help out then." She then decided.

"Sweet! Thanks for your help, Homura-chan!" Hikari cheered with a smile and took out her art book and pen.

"Wait, we're doing it here!?" Homura got out in disbelief as she stood up.

"Yep. This is the best place for the scene." Hikari simply responded with a nod.

"That's going a bit too far, Hikari." Homura admitted. "Maybe the art room in the Practice Building?" She then suggested.

"Hmm..." Hikari hummed out as she thought about it for a moment while tapping her pen on her chin. "I guess we can do that, if you're uncomfortable doing it here." She replied.

"Thanks." Homura breathed out relief. "I already deal with exposing myself as a shinobi..." She thought to herself with a sweatdrop.

"Yeah, no problem. Let's go to the art room." Hikari replied as she stored her art book into her bag and placed her pen in her ear.

Nodding to that, Homura smiled as the two headed out.


(Practice Building, Art Room)

"Ugh, thanks a lot Kamoshida for canceling a lot of the clubs..." Homura groaned out in annoyance as she opened the window to let the dust out of the room.

"Tell me about it...I couldn't even work on my manga since all of the art clubs were canceled..." Hikari agreed while wiping some dust from desks and shelves. "Ah...ahh...AHH-CHOO!" She sneezed out.

"Gesundheit." Homura responded. "And to correct myself, Kamoshida and Principal No-Spine for not giving the rooms proper cleanings." She then informed while coughing a bit.

"No kidding...It's going to take forever to finally get these rooms clean..." Hikari sniffled while blowing her nose on a tissue. "Ugh...I hope my allergies don't act up from all this dust and how stuffy the room is." She then muttered.

"Sorry, I thought they would've at least cleaned the rooms, but these don't look like they've been used in months." Homura apologized in an awkward manner.

"It's alright, I don't blame you for this. I blame the bastards who made this school into the hellhole everyone knows it as." Hikari replied to her.

"Yeah." Homura responded with a nod. "In any case, how about we start?" She soon suggested.

Hikari in turn nodded as she got to a desk and her things out. "Ok Homura, first I'll need you to take off your blazer and undo some buttons." Hikari instructed.

Homura nodded as she took off her blazer and hung it on the chair next to her. After that, she unbuttons her shirt to where her cleavage is now showing. "Like this?" She soon asked as she leaned forward in a seducing manner.

"Oh yeah, just like that. And nice seduction pose. I can definitely use that as well." Hikari responded as she gave her a thumbs up.

"Thanks." Homura replied as she playfully tugged her top a bit.

"Ohhh, nice playful tugging on your top. Definitely something I can use." Hikari informed and nodded as she jots down both the committee head's seduction pose and playfully tugging her top.

Homura meanwhile smirked at that and didn't say anything more as she allowed her committee member to draw.

"Okay, on to the next bit. Are you ready?" Hikari asked in anticipation.

"Yup." Homura replied. "What's next?" She then asked.

"First you lay down on the floor, but also hold yourself up with your arm." Hikari instructed "Then you have your other arm cover your chest while your legs are spread out with her knees pointing upwards. And maybe lean more to the side like you're struggling to get up." She then added.

"So descriptive." Homura giggled out as she went to get into position.

"I'm one for details." Hikari simplified.

"Of course." Homura nodded as she did what her committee told her. "Like this?" She soon asked.

"Perfect." Hikari responded. "Now hold that pose." She then instructed as she passionately began drawing.

Homura nodded as she held her pose to let her committee member draw. She can clearly see how passionate she is about her mangaka and wishes she can see her go professional.

"Man Homura, you have such a great body for this, you could be a model like your sister if you could." Hikari meanwhile complimented.

"Thanks, but I don't know if I can be a model like her." Homura responded. "She was mostly dragged into it because one of the girls was sick at the time and she had to fill in for her. After that, she's been enjoying her time as a model. Plus, I don't think it's really my thing." She then explained and admitted.

"Well everyone has their preferences." Hikari stated with a nod of understanding.

"Yeah, that's true." Homura replied with a nod of agreement while holding her pose.

After a while...

"There! It's finished!" Hikari declared as she smiled before showing it to the tan skinned girl. "Well? What do you think? Looks good, right?" She then asked.

"Heee, not bad Hikari," Homura complimented in an impressed tone.

"Really?" Hikari got out with a smile.

"Yeah. You did a great job on it." Homura praised with a nod. "I can definitely see you being a professional manga artist." She then informed.

"Well, that is what I hope to be." Hikari reminded.

"I'm sure you will be. Just keep on doing what you love and your dream will become a reality." Homura encouraged her.

"Hehe, thanks Homura." Hikari giggled. "Man, I can just keep drawing some more." She then confessed.

"Well I'm here to help, so what kind of poses do you need next?" Homura replied and asked in a curious manner.

"Hmm..." Hikari hummed out as she thought about it for a moment. "Oh, I know." She soon decided as a lightbulb appeared above her head.

"Hm?" Homura responded with a raised eyebrow and her head tilted slightly.

"Think you can do something a little more cutesy?" Hikari asked her.

To that, Homura's eyes widened to the suggestion...

GLEAM!

While a smirk and a gleam came to her eyes.

"Homura?" Hikari called out, confused by the lack of a response and the smirk on her face.

"Cutesy, you say? I can definitely do that for you." Homura responded as she got into position.

"Oh?" Hikari got out, curious about this as she got herself ready to draw.

Once in position, Homura spun around on the tip of her shoes before doing a magical girl-like pose with a cute smile and winking at her.

Hikari in turn blinked in response before giving a thumbs up. "Perfect! Hold that pose!" She informed and instructed in excitement as she began drawing.

Homura nodded and held her pose as she watched her draw. "Man, she's really into drawing." She thought in an impressed manner.

Hikari meanwhile looked up at her for a moment to make sure she's getting every detail right as she continues drawing.

"I mean Yusuke's one thing, but still feels more relaxing honestly." Homura mentally admitted with a smile, feeling as though her bond with her committee member was improving even more as a result.

RANK UP! MAGICIAN RANK 3!

Magician's Secret: Chance to increase Magic at the start of a battle.

"Alright! It's done!" Hikari declared as she smiled at her work. "I think this one might be my best work yet." She shows her drawing to the tan skinned girl. "Well? How does it look?" She soon asked.

"Hm." Homura hummed out as she got a good look.

The drawing resembles Homura, but her hair is tied in a braided ponytail, her eyes having a red color and seems to be more bigger than hers, and is not as tan as she is. She was doing a pose where she is winking with her left eye while her right hand is over her right eye with a peace sign and her hips are tilted to the side with her left hand placed on her hip.

Homura in response whistled in an impressed manner to the image. "Not bad, she looks like the main character of an anime for sure." She declared with a nod.

"You really think so?" Hikari asked hopefully.

Homura in turn once more nodded with a smile.

Hikari smiled back and looked at her drawing. "Thank you, Homura. I'm really glad you like it." She replied in a grateful manner.

"It's not a problem." Homura responded. "So, think you can tell me what your manga's gonna be about?" She then asked in a curious manner with a smirk on her face.

"Sure, I can tell you what it's about. It's something I've been working on for some time now." Hikari nodded as she showed her other drawings to Homura.

As Homura listened to learning about her committee member's ideas, she felt as though her Understanding was improving as a result.

"So what do you think? Really good story, eh?" Hikari asked after finishing telling her.

"It really is a good story, Hikari." Homura replied with a smile. "I hope the character you used me for as a base is a badass too." She then added.

"Oh believe me, she will be a badass. You can bet on it." Hikari replied with a nod and gave her a thumbs up. "She'll definitely be in the ranks of other badass characters, both male and female from all sorts of media." She then reassured.

"I'm counting on that." Homura giggled out with a smile.

"Of course, that also means I might make a rival for her." Hikari got out. "Someone who not only matches her in pretty much everything, but also might be a potential love interest down the line. A little something to spice up the story, if you know what I mean." She vaguely added as she winked at her.

"Oooh, sounds thrilling." Homura replied with interest.

"Glad you like it. Now I do have some ideas for one, but I'm not sure whether to make the rival a guy or a girl." Hikari revealed."I was thinking of doing both and making it a sort of love triangle. What do you think?" She then added and asked.

"Hey, if you can think of new ideas that haven't been done before, I'm all in for it." Homura replied.

"Something that hasn't been thought of before..." Hikari repeated, thinking about it as she tapped her chin with her pen.

"Well?" Homura asked with curiosity.

"Sorry, nothing seems to come to mind right now. I'll have to think about something to come up with for the story." Hikari apologizes and takes off her hat.

"It's ok, it'll come to you." Homura reassured with a smile before noticing the time. "Jeez, we've been here for a while." She soon pointed out.

"Yeah, we sure have. Time really does fly when you're having fun." Hikari admitted in agreement.

Homura in response nodded to that as they got their stuff. "Well, we better head home for the day then. See you later." She replied as she made her way to the door.

"Yeah, see ya." Hikari responded with a nod...before something came to mind. "Hold on, Homura. I think I might have an idea for a rival." She suddenly informed.

"Hm?" Homura hummed out in a curious manner upon hearing that.

"I asked Sora-kun if he can be a base for one of the characters and he agreed to. So I drew him as a base for this one." Hikari explained as she showed her a drawing she did.

"Heeeh, not bad at all Hikari." Homura got out in an impressed manner once more.

"Thanks, I'm really glad how he turned out." Hikari replied and smiled. "I tried to not make him too similar to the little slime dude, but I think he looks different enough to be his own character." She soon explained.

"Of course." Homura replied with a nod. "So, got any ideas for the names for the character you based on me?" She then asked.

"Well, I do have a few, but I'm still thinking about which of them would work the best for her." Hikari answered her "Here's a list of the names I came up with, but what do you think would work for her?" She hands her a notebook of names for her characters.

"Hm," Homura hummed out as she took and looked through the names. "Now what would be a good name?" She thought to herself as she scanned through the pages of names that would work for Hikari's main character of her story.

"Kurenai...Hoseki." Homura soon answered. "Crimson Diamond." She translated.

"Kurenai Hoseki? Why that name?" Hikari repeated and raised an eyebrow.

"Felt like it would work. Your image of her made it seem like she sparkles like a diamond and she has crimson red eyes." Homura explained.

"Hmm..." Hikari hummed out as she looked at her drawing and saw what she meant. "Yeah, I think you're right. She does sparkle like a diamond and has crimson red eyes." She admitted in agreement.

"Good to hear." Homura sighed in relief.

"In that case, her name is now officially Kurenai Hoseki." Hikari declares and writes down her character's official name.

"Sweet." Homura replied with a smile. "Tell me more about her next time, I gotta head home." She added.

"Sure, sounds like a plan." Hikari nodded. "See you tomorrow." She puts her sketchbook in her bag and puts her hat back on her head.

"See ya." Homura responded with a nod and a smile as the two left for the day.


(8/31, Evening)

(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

Asuka was washing dishes when her roommate came in. "Hey, Homu-neechan." She happily greeted. "How was your day so far?" She then asked.

"Wonderful!" Homura replied with a grin. "How was yours?" She asked back.

"Great!" Asuka responded. "There's leftover sushi in the fridge if you want any." She then informed.

"Thank you!" Homura got out as she went to the fridge and took the leftovers out.

BZZT! BZZT!

"Hm, what's the topic this time?" Homura muttered as she sat down on the couch.

"We'll see." Asuka responded before cleaning the last dish before pulling out her phone.

[Shut7heFUp: Whoa! This approval rating's insane! We're pushin' into the 70s!]

[Alibaba9: Aw, you're making me blush.]

[Shut7heFUp: I'm not talking about you!]

[DarkEyeXI: Take that back!]

[Shut7heFUp: Seriously?]

[Road2Queen: No, this is definitely thanks to Futaba silencing Medjed.]

[FireGirl20: Yeah, we were screwed. And revealing ourselves wasn't an option.]

[Negative8Degrees: Plus there was Miyabi-san...]

[DarkEyeXI: Hey, I already apologized for that.]

[Alibaba9: See!? How do you like them apples!]

[Sweetkat06: It's kinda frightening how strong this momentum is...]

[TheWildJ0ker: I agree. It's great and all, but it is going up faster than usual.]

[Shut7heFUp: Aw come on! The Phantom Thieves just took down international criminals!]

[Shut7heFUp: This shit's like, the perfect motivation! Everyone's got high expectations of the Phantom Thieves. Let's make sure they're answered!]

[Road2Queen: On top of all that, this case has shed light on something important.]

[All4Painting: You mean Black Mask. Well...it's all but confirmed that they are the ones behind the mental shutdowns.]

[Alibaba9: That's the one who killed my mom...]

[DarkEyeXI: They are dead when I get my heads on them. ]

[SushiRoll23: And we still don't know if Black Mask is one or many. It's Medjed all over again...]

[Road2Queen: We can't leave them be. Let's talk more in detail about this tomorrow at school.]

[Shut7heFUp: Wait, what the hell!? School starts tomorrow!? You've gotta be joking.]

[Sweetkat06: Why would she joke about something like that...?]

[Shut7heFUp: I thought we had another week!]

[SushiRoll23: Ryuji-kun...]

[Shut7heFUp: Eh, I guess it's fine. It's not like it'll kill me or anything.]

[FireGirl20: The homework won't, but WE will.]

[TheWildJ0ker: (reloads gun with malicious intent)]

[Road2Queen: I hope you understand what will happen if you don't do it.]

[Shut7heFUp: So I gotta pull an all-nighter tonight? Gimme a break...]

[SushiRoll23: Don't worry, Ryuji-kun! I'll help you out so video chat me after this.]

[All4Painting: You didn't finish either?]

[SushiRoll23: No, I've done it. But I'll always make sure to help someone in need.]

[Shut7heFUp: Thanks Vice Leader!]

"Wait, so you're seriously gonna stay up all night helping Ryuji?" Homura asked while looking at her sister.

"No, because we're gonna finish it before midnight." Asuka assured with hands on her hips.

"Well, you better hurry. It is 7 PM." Homura informed as she looked at the time.

Asuka blinked before quickly grabbing her school stuff from her formerly-prepared bag. "...Are you going out?" She then suddenly asked.

"Yup." Homura responded with a nod.

"Okay, because I'll need total concentration and focus, so leave now!" Asuka ordered as she pointed at the door.

"What?" Homura got out in confusion.

"GO!" Asuka commanded as she pushed the tan skinned girl towards the door.

"Okay, okay! I'm leaving..." Homura replied before being shoved outside. "Huh, Sis seems a bit more forceful." She thought to herself before shrugging it off.


(Miyabi's Apartment)

Meanwhile in the white haired woman's apartment, she had just looked through the text discussion.

However one sentence from it caught her eye more than anything else.

"Hmm...Ann's onto something though..." Miyabi muttered with a hand on her chin. "This momentum does seem fast..." She then admitted. "But then again, something like this doesn't happen often. God...it feels weird knowing you're technically famous..." She soon added while scratching the back of her head.

BZZT! BZZT!

"What is it this time?" Miyabi wondered as she looked at who was calling.

Work.

Miyabi let out a groan before answering. "Aw, crap. Hello? The night shift? Okay, I'll get going. See you soon." She got out before putting away her phone.

With that, she grabbed her uniform and headed out.


(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

"M-Maybe it is part of her mission." Minori soon suggested. "What if it's someone in that Takura Productions place that has a connection to the incidents?" She soon asked.

"I doubt an idol agency would have contact with anyone dangerous or important." Shiki assumed with a frown. "Maybe it's not the agency but one of the idols themselves." She then added.

"There's no way there are any other shinobi in the music industry." Murakumo sighed out.

"Up next, performing their biggest hit yet from their latest album, Milky Pop! And afterwards, we're having an interview with Leader of the ARC Angels; Tsubaki!"

"Can you turn off the TV already?" Yozakura requested as the fashionista did as requested.

"Look, we're getting nowhere by just guessing and making assumptions." Murakumo stated before letting out a tired groan. "God, this is way more than I bargained for when I woke up today." She confessed while scratching her head.

"Yesterday." Shiki corrected.

"Whatever. The point is one of us needs to go and talk to her. Directly." Murakumo concluded.

"But she hid this from us for who knows how long! We don't know if she'll be truthful if we confront her."

"Guys, we've been at this for hours." Shiki groaned. "Maybe we'll never know..." She then mumbled out, causing the whole room to go silent.


(Shibuya, Station Square)

Yumi let out a yawn as arrived at Station Square.

A few people were taking her photo but she was mostly being left alone, either from politeness or because the vast majority don't know of her yet. It was nice, but she knew it wasn't going to last long. Especially once the posters started printing and her single releases.

She also needed to go to the studio to record her song with the Phantom soon. Thankfully, there was a recording so she didn't have to recall the lyrics off the top of her head.

"This...This is a much bigger headache than I initially thought..." Yumi sighed before shaking her head and looking up towards the night sky. "But...it will be worth it once your vision comes into fruition, Ojii-sama..." She then muttered in determination.

"Yumi-senpai." A well mannered voice greeted, her voice calm and collected as the light gray haired girl.

"Ah, Homura-san." Yumi yawned. "How has your day been going?" She soon asked.

"It has been going on pretty well." Homura answered while putting her hands behind her head. "You look like you just got out of bed." She noted in amusement.

"Only an hour ago." Yumi confessed. "My debut had taken a lot out of me, and I doubt it will be the end of such work." She soon explained.

"I heard idols have to quit school to keep up with the workload." Homura recalled in concern.

"That won't happen for another year." Yumi however informed. "Even then, I'm thinking about going for a bi-annual release schedule for a while. It will give me enough time to be a shinobi or even pursue further education." She then revealed and explained.

"Good. You're too good to lose someone like you." Homura got out as she patted the idol's shoulder. "What do your friends back home think?" She soon asked.

"Um...I haven't told them yet." Yumi admitted as she checked her phone. A lot of notifications since midnight to this morning, but suddenly it stopped. "They keep calling, but I keep missing them. I still have informants to contact, so I doubt I can answer their calls later." She then sighed. She didn't like it, but she simply had other concerns that required her attention.

"I dunno. You should call them back." Homura advised.

"And I will, but not right now." Yumi assured as she put away her phone. "After all, our time together is going to end at some point and I wish to make sure you will be fine once we go our separate ways." She then reminded.

"Which will be a shame when the time comes." Homura confessed. "But, it's one I'll happily accept. Besides, we won't be away from each other for very long." She then stated with a smile.

"Hm?" Yumi hummed out in a curious manner.

"I'll still remain in contact, and we can always meet here when we have the time." The tan skinned girl informed. "We live in a time where everyone is connected. It is great." She then stated.

"Oh. Of course." Yumi responded with a nod of agreement. "You have learned well, Homura-san." She soon praised with a gentle smile on her face.

"Why thank you Yumi-senpai." Homura replied as she bowed to the other girl with the utmost respect. "Your lessons have been working wonders for how I act." She then added. "So, how would you rate my progression?" She soon asked in a curious tone.

"I would say that your progress is coming along smoothly." Yumi answered. "There have been several obstacles along the way with your former mannerisms, but you've been improving spectacularly." She then praised.

"Why thank you. I must admit it has indeed been a trail." Homura replied. "I was worried that it was going to be difficult, but I'm glad that wasn't the case." She then confessed.

"Hai, you are becoming closer to being the epitome of elegance." Yumi soon informed.

"Like you Yumi-senpai?" Homura asked in response.

"Yes, indeed." Yumi replied with a nod. "However, this also now your own form of elegance, Homura-san." She then revealed.

"My own form of elegance?" Homura repeated in a curious manner.

"Hai. My elegance is like a gentle snow." Yumi began explaining. "However yours is that of a flame burning brightly." She then added.

"So more passionate and lively, like fire?" Homura questioned and guessed.

"However you also know you must keep a cool head." Yumi then stated.

"Like you Yumi-senpai?" Homura soon asked.

"Yes, indeed." Yumi replied with a nod. "Our dancing was to help you ease your mind and become calmer as a result." She then explained.

"Oh, I see. So that's what those dancing lessons were for?" Homura asked.

"Hai, and with all the lessons, you have become a true master." Yumi replied and praised with a proud smile.

"Oh no Yumi-senpai, you are being too modest." Homura however replied. "You are still technically the master." She then added.

Yumi in response giggled to that praise given to her. "True, but I can not really take all the credit. You have been working hard and should be proud of yourself." She then reminded.

"I humbly accept your words of encouragement." Homura responded. "So, what shall we do tonight? Another dance?" She then questioned and guessed.

"I believe I have another idea in mind." Yumi answered.

"Oh?" Homura responded in a curious manner. "And what do you have in mind, if you don't mind me asking?" She then questioned.

"Follow me and I'll show you." Yumi instructed.

"Yes ma'am." Homura replied with a nod as the two headed out.


(Underground Mall)

They soon arrived at a clothes store.

"Hm? A clothing store, Yumi-senpai?" Homura got out in confusion. "But we have been shopping before." She then pointed out.

"True, but that was more for your casual clothes." Yumi replied with a nod. "We're searching for clothes that will show your new elegance in your own way." She soon explained.

"Eh?" Homura however got out in confusion.

"What I mean is that you need clothes that show off your elegance in your own way." Yumi then revealed.

"Elegance...in my own way..." Homura slowly repeated.

"Yes. That way you can have a form of elegance that's your own." Yumi explained.

"That sounds wonderous Yumi-senpai..." Homura breathed out in amazement. "Please treat me well with assisting me with getting new clothes." She soon requested.

"Of course, I will, Homura-san." Yumi replied as she nodded with a smile. "And remember one of my rules." She then began.

"Cuteness equals justice." The two then concluded at the same time before giggling in amusement.

The girls then began browsing through the clothes to find out which ones would fit Homura the best. During this, they found some clothes that seemed cute, so they added to the pile for the tan skinned girl to try on. Over the next few minutes, they had found the clothes that looked cute and the tan skinned girl went to the changing room to try them on.

"I cannot wait to see how you look Homura-san." Yumi soon confessed with a gentle smile.

"Trust me, Yumi-senpai. You'll be in for a surprise." Homura reassured from the other side of the curtain.

Yumi meanwhile smiled as she diligently and patiently waited for her student in elegance.

After a few minutes however...

Homura opened the curtains to reveal her new clothes. She was now wearing a black dress that reached down to her knees with crimson lining, a pair of black gloves that reached up to her elbows, and a pair of heels. Her dress also showed off her curves and a generous amount of her cleavage.

To the sight, Yumi for one was more or less amazed. "Magnificent Homura-san." She soon praised with a smile.

Homura does a spin to show off her new clothes as she smiles brightly from the praise. "Thank you, Yumi-senpai." She replied as she bowed to her.

Yumi then noticed an employee and approached her. "Excuse me miss, we would like to make a purchase, can my friend wear what she is wearing out?" She soon informed and requested.

"Oh, of course, she can. I just need to scan the prince tag and you'll be on your way in no time." The employee replied with a nod as she took out a price scanner and scanned the price tag on the tan skinned girl's outfit.

"Y-Yumi-senpai, are you sure?" Homura asked in concern to what was happening.

"Of course, I'm sure. You can leave the payment to me. This is for you, after all." Yumi smiled and nodded.

"T-Thank you Yumi-senpai." Homura got out in a grateful manner. "I-I honestly thought you would have done what Ann-chan did with making me pay her back when we were trying to distract Yusuke with the nude modeling attempt." She soon confessed.

"I'd never do that to you. I'm sure Ann-san had her reasons for that...incident, but I wouldn't have you pay me back for this." Yumi explained to her.

"Thank you." Homura responded with relief as the two headed out of the store.

"It is my pleasure, Homura-san." Yumi reassured with a smile as she took off the price tag.

As the two walked the streets, they were unaware of passing people looking at them.

"Holy shit! Those girls are hot!" A young man muttered.

"Humana humana humana..." Another man gawked out.

"Stop staring!" One woman got out in annoyance.

"Men are just the worst..." Another woman groaned in disgust.

"Those girls are lucky they're cute." Yet another woman muttered.

"And sexy." Another woman admitted in agreement.

The two friends meanwhile blinked as they looked at one another and giggled.

Just then, one guy walked up to them. "Hello, ladies. How are you two doing on this fine day?" He soon asked with a smile.

"Well, we're pleasant." Homura responded as she looked at her friend. "Right Yumi-senpai?" She then added.

"Yes, indeed. Very pleasant." Yumi responded with nod in agreement.

The two then looked back to the man. "So, is there anything you need sir?" Homura soon asked in an innocent tone.

"Well, me and my friend are spending a night on the town. And I was wondering if you ladies would join us?" The man then asked them.

To that, the two girls blinked in response. "Sir, how old are you exactly?" Yumi soon questioned in a more serious tone.

"22. Why do you ask?" The man asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Just confirming." Yumi responded. "Me and my friend here are 17 and 16 respectively." She then informed.

"Well, then it's fine, right? We're just a couple of years apart." The man replied.

Homura meanwhile took in a deep breath as she looked at the man. "I apologize sir, but me and my friend are busy at the moment, so we must decline." She soon rejected.

"Oh, I see. I guess that's fine." The man dejectedly responded. "Just like in high school, it seems..." He muttered to himself.

"We apologize sir." Yumi soon got out as the two bowed to him. "Don't worry though, you'll find someone." She soon reassured with a smile.

"That's what they all say, but I've given up on that years ago..." The man muttered as he lowered his head. "Maybe I'm just not meant to find that special someone..." He then confessed as he leaned against the wall and sighs in defeat.

Homura however sighed in response. "Sir, you will find someone someday. You just have to keep trying and never give up." She soon encouraged with a smile.

"Hai, never give up." Yumi also encouraged with a smile of her own.

"You two really think so? Am I really going to find someone?" The man looks at them.

The two in response nod. "Hai." She replied as the man soon thought an angelic light appeared over them.

His eyes widened at the sight of their angelic light and felt that he was in the presence of angels. This rejuvenated him as he stood back up and walked away, feeling better than ever before.

"Good luck!" The two soon encouraged once more.

"I will! And thanks for your help!" The man called back as he did a jump and clapped his heels together.

Yumi meanwhile smiled as she looked at her friend. "Very good Homura-san." She soon praised. "Before, you would have bluntly rejected him in a harsh and cruel manner." She then reminded.

"Yes, I would have done that before if I was my old self. Perhaps even beaten him up for even hitting on me." Homura confessed in agreement.

"This shows that you have improved for the better." Yumi replied.

"Thanks to your training, Yumi-senpai." Homura replied in agreement.

Yumi in turn giggled as the two continued on their way.

(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

"She doesn't care about us anymore. She's built a life outside of us and our duties to Kurokage." Murakumo muttered in a hollow tone. "She didn't abandon us, she forgot about us..."

"...I don't want to believe that...but..." Yozakura said in a quiet tone, only to shake her head and sigh.

"What are we gonna do without him now..." Minori mumbled in a depressed manner. "His dream...we've all trained and became shinobi for his dream and now he'll never get to see it..."

"Did anyone even hear his last words?" Shiki eventually asked.

"I did." Yozakura responded. "He said...I wasted my life..."

That immediately got the attention of the others. "...Eh?" Shiki muttered with widened eyes.

"...He did?" Murakumo breathed out as she processed this.

"It was what I heard before he was rushed into the emergency room." The acting leader remembered as she looked down to the floor. "...Maybe it was pointless. The doctor did suggest we simply make sure he was comfortable as he..." She then began, only to stop herself as it only made the others even more upset.

"...Why do we bother saving this world...if this is how it repays us?"

"Because...it's our grandfather's will." Yozakura answered, hesitating a little. "It's his legacy...right?" She then pointed out.

"His legacy..." Shiki mumbled before tearing up. "...What a waste..." She then bitterly got out.

"Shiki..." Minori whispered in disbelief.

"We're just...four against billions of minds, with different beliefs and thoughts!" Shiki growled. "No matter what we do, there will always be evil in this world. So why do we bother even trying? Let's face the facts...we were doomed from the start." She then declared.

"We can't think that!" Yozakura called out. "We became shinobi to repay for his kindness, to make sure our stories are limited to only us! We can't...we can't just give up hope right now!" She then encouraged.

"Yumi did." Murakumo soon accused.

"..." Minori's eyes soon twitched as she glared at the others. "RRRRAAAHHH!" She then roared before creating a Shinobi Kekkai. Not even a second later, the Elites vanished.


(Rooftop)

The girls were looking at the city skyline as the wind blew towards them.

"Ah, what a nice breeze." Yumi breathed out with a smile.

"Yes, indeed. Very nice." Homura agrees and does the same.

The two then held each other's hands. "Shall we go then?" Yumi soon asked.

Homura in turn nodded and smiled. "Hai." She replied.

"Shinobi Kekkai." The two soon got out at once as the two vanished instantly.


(Homura and Yumi's Dual Shinobi Kekkai)

And the two appeared in the shifting red and blue Kekkai as snow fell upon them.

Both were also in their shinobi outfits, but Homura's was the black and red version of Yumi's.

"Ah, this just feels so right." Homura soon confessed as she brought her fans out that were similar to the ones the light gray haired girl had.

"Yes, it does. And you really pull off your new shinobi transformation well." Yumi agreed and praised.

"Oh, you're just flattering me at this point, Yumi-senpai." Homura giggled.

"Maybe, but I definitely mean it. You've really improved over the last few months and your mannerisms is proof of that." Yumi told her with a smile.

"Y-Yumi-senpai." Homura mumbled out with a blush.

"Especially when you handled the situation with that young man before. You gave him the confidence he needs to find someone who is right for him." Yumi praised her even more.

Homura meanwhile blushed even more as she covered her cheeks with her hands.

Yumi however walks over to her and takes her hands into hers. "You should be proud of yourself for wanting to change yourself for the better and it shows." She then encouraged.

"And...isn't it too fast?" Homura soon asked. "Like you mentioned, it has only been a few months." She then added.

"I suppose it is too fast, but I believe it shows how you wanted to change yourself for the better." Yumi smiled.

"O-Oh." Homura got out, a smile on her face as the two held hands.

"So while even though it has been too fast to change yourself, I still believe it was for the best." Yumi soon stated as she smiled.

"S-Senpai..." Homura breathed out.

Yumi then pulled her into a hug as she feels proud of her friend for wanting to change herself and can see that she'll be an amazing person.

"S-Senpai." Homura got out, surprised by the sudden action.

"Just a little something for your efforts. You've really come a long way since we've started this training session for you." Yumi replied and declared. "If you ever need any advice, don't hesitate to ask me." She then offered.

Homura in response smiled as she returned the hug. "Thank you Senpai." She responded. "You have become a good friend to me just like Sis." She then confessed.

"You're welcome. I'm glad I was able to help you when you asked me." Yumi replied as she smiled and nodded.

The two separated from the hug. "So, shall we dance?" Homura soon suggested with a smile.

"Yes, let's." Yumi nods as she unfolds her fans.

Homura then watched as her friend took out her phone, created a stand of ice as she placed it on and pressed the play button while she readied her own fans.

"Ready?" Yumi asked.

"Hai." Homura replied with a smile.

"Then let's begin." Yumi nodded as she started dancing.

As such, the tan skinned girl followed suit as the two danced in perfect synchronization.

"Hm, such grace." Yumi thought as she watched her fellow dancer.

Both danced around each other as fire and ice auras were emitting from their movements.

"Be one with the dance...one with my element...one with elegance and grace..." Homura mentally told herself, thinking back to all her lessons as their auras intensified.

As the dance continued, their Guardian Animals started to manifest through their movements and even mimic them.

Yumi's spider of ice moved in a manner that appeared as though it being prepared to go onto its prey.

HISS!

Homura's snake of fire meanwhile hissed, slithered and moved in a manner as though it was about to pounce.

Both stared each other down as they circled around, sizing each other up. Ready for a fight.

On the other hand, the two dancers said nothing as they kept going with elegance and grace with their eyes closed, mirroring one another perfectly.

Both the snake and spider bared their fangs as the former slithers around and the latter scurries, mimicking their master's movements.

"Think of nothing else at this very moment..." Both girls thought as if they were one person. "Nothing but this moment...nothing but this dance..." They then added.

Their Guardian Animals heard their thoughts and started doing the same as them and mimicked their movements.

The two then began to skate through the snow field, ice under the light gray haired girl's feet while flames were under the tan skinned girls.

While the girls skated across their respective elements, their Guardian Animals followed them as they trailed fire and ice.

"This feeling...so serene..." Both girls thought, opening their eyes in a delicate manner as they looked at one another and smiled.

Their Guardian Animals stood right beside their masters as they stopped skating on their respective elements.

"Such grace from Homura-san." Yumi mentally praised, the gentle smile not leaving her face.

"That was incredible. I felt so light on my feet." Homura thought as she smiled to herself before she looked over to the light gray haired girl.

"It is as though...it was meant to be this way..." The two soon thought as one.

The Guardian Animals meanwhile hissed at the same time as they waited for their masters next action.

"As such..." The two then thought as they once more began to dance and skate across the snowfield. "We shall keep growing...changing ourselves with the hardships we go through..." They then added in their heads.

"Yumi-senpai's ice...it feels so cooling on my soul..." Homura thought in a calm manner.

"Homura-san's fire...it feels as though it is warming my heart..." Yumi thought in a serene manner.

"And I love it." The two soon mentally confessed as one once more.

Meanwhile, both girls started to dance closer to one another.

Once they were close to each other, they spun around each other as their respective elements trails behind them.

"No matter what happens..." Homura soon thought.

"No shinobi school shall hold us back anymore." Yumi meanwhile thought.

"Not Hanzō, not Hebijo..." Homura then thought.

"And not Gessen." Yumi soon thought.

They then spun around faster and faster as their elements created a vortex around them as this went on.

"Only...us." The two soon thought with determination. "I am both fire and ice..." They then added, thinking as if they were one person.

As the vortex spirals faster, both fire and ice started to merge with each other until, in a flash, bursts around them. Scattering embers and crystals everywhere.

"And...finish..." The two whispered, giving off mirroring poses as they finished.

Meanwhile, the spider came to a stand still at the light gray haired girl's beck and call while the snake circled and laid at the tan skinned girl's feet.

"Such a wondrous finish." Homura and Yumi soon stated in a serene tone.

The duo then began to walk towards one another, moving as though they were looking at each other through a mirror.

"Such elegance." They then praised one another.

"That was such," Yumi began.

"A wonderful dance." Homura finished. "It feels as though," She then started.

"Our hearts and souls are free." Yumi then finished.

Both girls continued to move in sync with each other as they're amazed at what has transpired during their dance.

"It also feels as though," Homura then started.

"We are in perfect," Yumi continued.

"Synchronization." The two then concluded at the same time.

Eventually, the two got close enough as they then held each other's hands.

And when they did, both fire and ice embraced each other and seemed to be connecting them to their opposite element.

"We are indeed," Yumi started.

"Of one body and mind." Homura concluded as the two smiled.

Their eyes then started to suddenly give off a slight glow, Homura's eyes glowed red while Yumi's eyes glowed white. Their eyes glowed even brighter as they continued to stare at each other.

"The two are indeed in perfect sync..." Wolverine muttered within the tan skinned girl's mind.

"And they broke the boundaries that the shinobi system placed upon them." Fūma meanwhile stated within the light gray haired girl's mind as the elements of both girls circled around them.

Just like before, the Yin-Yang symbol appeared coated in fire and ice, symbolizing the balance between opposing sides and that no walls or boundaries can break their unison. Proving that one cannot exist without the other and how everything is connected to each other.

"We are truly indeed," Homura started.

"True masters of elegance." Yumi concluded as she brought the tan skinned girl into a hug.

"Yumi-senpai." Homura breathed out as she returned the hug, their breasts pressing up one another.

SMOOSH!

"Homura-san." Yumi muttered as she did the same.

SMOOSH!

"We are now sisters in all but blood as well." The two soon spoke as one once more.

They hugged each other even tighter as their breasts pressed even more together.

"And I love my sister." The two then confessed as they smiled, their Shinobi Tenshin outfits glowing before returning to their normal clothes.


(Rooftop)

And the Shinobi Kekkai dissipated as they were back on the rooftop they were on prior.

"Homura-san, you have truly become the epitome of elegance and grace." Yumi soon declared in a proud manner.

"Thank you very much, Yumi-senpai. I couldn't have done it without your teachings." Homura responded as she nodded and smiled back, feeling as though her Elegance had greatly grown as a result.

The light gray haired girl however shook her head in response."No Homura-san, you were the one who decided to make the choice to try and change yourself." Yumi replied. "And even though you will be attending Hanzō Academy in the end, we are as one." She then stated.

"Yumi-senpai..." Homura breathed out, happy her friend was so accepting of her decision.

"Homura-san, to me, you are a sister to me just as Yozakura-san, Murakumo-san, Shiki-san and Minori-san are." Yumi soon confessed with a smile.

"As you are to me as much as Asuka, Yumi-senpai." Homura confessed to her as well.

The two then began giggling in amusement and in a sisterly manner.

"In any case, would you like to go see a movie?" The two soon asked at the same time. "Why, yes. That sounds like an excellent idea." Both girls then answered at the same time.

The two then took each other's hand as they vanished instantly, leaving a wisp of flames and a small glacier of ice behind.

Their Guardian Animals appeared in astral forms and took flight into the air as trails of fire and ice flowed behind them.

"Things are going to be interesting from now on." Both soon thought in excitement.

They walked down the street towards the movie theater to watch a movie before heading home.


(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

Suddenly, the Gessen girls returned back to reality, all of them naked and bruised as they collapsed to the ground. The only one with some sort of decency was Murakumo and her mask, and even then the ropes were hanging on by mere threads.

"...Have we...Have we gotten that out of our systems?" Yozakura panted out.

"I...I think so..." Shiki groaned as she held her extremely sore chest.

"Is this...Is this really...how...we get therapy?" Murakumo grumbled as she pushed herself to her feet. "By kicking each other's asses... until we're down to our birthday suits?"

"It's way better than going to the counselor."

"...We have a counselor?" Minori got out in surprise.

"A woefully underutilized one from our actions lately." Yozakura sighed.

"We've been arguing and crying and fighting for the entire day!" Murakumo called out in frustration, clutching onto her hair and messing it up. "I think I'm losing my mind! Are we in some bizarro universe we just so happened to stumble into or something!?"

"That's because none of us has slept since yesterday." Yozakura soon pointed out before sniffing the air and cringing. "...Nor have we had a bath..." She then added.

"Or eaten." Shiki groaned as she rubbed her stomach. "Goddammit, this sucks..." She then mumbled out.

"...What are we going to do?" Minori eventually asked.

"...Do something we should've done at the start." Yozakura sighed as she shook her head. "Tell Yumi and let her explain herself."

"Yumi...Yumi won't take this well at all." Murakumo sighed as the youngest member of the group pulled out her phone, only for the blonde to slap it out of her hands.

"Ah!" Minori yelped out.

"We are not doing this over the phone." Murakumo chided. "We have to go over and tell her ourselves." She then stated.

"But...most of us have already gone to Tokyo." Yozakura reminded.

"Screw! That!" Murakumo however snapped. "We all have to be there for her! Even if she's written us off or not, we'll be there to catch her when she falls. And...and she'll fall fast. I know it." She then stated.

"But we'll be labeled as renegades if we do. Plus, Tokyo is getting hotter by the moment, and not just from the weather." Yozakura informed. "We're getting reports that more shinobi are going there. It won't become a full all-out war, but give it a couple of months or the wrong move..." She then informed with a frown.

"...Dammit." Shiki cursed under her breath.

"...So who's going to tell her?" Murakumo asked as everyone stared at each other.


(Yongen-Jaya, Leblanc Cafe)

Akira entered the cafe alone after a good night meal at the restaurant with Futaba, Miyabi and Sojiro. "Man, that sushi was so good." He then muttered.

Morgana then noticed the Leader coming home and leaped onto a chair. "Welcome home, Leader! I've been waiting for you!"

"Oh hey, Morgana." Akira greeted as he petted the not cat's head.

Morgana then noticed something before making a puzzled look. "Huh? Wait, where's my sushi?" He then asked worryingly. "Where's my fatty tuna? Where's my anago?"

"Yeah, about that..." The Leader spoke up as he scratched his head before...

BZZT! BZZT!

"Hm?" Akira got out as he pulled out his phone. "A message from Futaba?"

"Futaba? Huh, in the middle of the evening? Must be something important." Morgana then deducted while raising an eyebrow. "Come on, let's take a seat and have a look." He then added.

Akira simply nodded before the both of them took a seat from one of the tables and checked the message.

[Alibaba9: The sushi was so delicious, we even ate the cat's share.]

[Alibaba9: If only Sojiro had more money. Or if Miyabi came. She would've totally bought more.]

"So that's why." Morgana groaned as he felt down by that. "Jeez, I'm really looking forward to eating one. This sucks." He grumbled in disappointment.

"There's always next time." Akira assured as he petted his head, which seemed to make him a little sadder.

[Alibaba9: There's actually one place I wanna go more than sushi. Any idea what it is?]

[TheWildJ0ker: A...ramen shop?]

[Alibaba9: Oooh, washing down our sushi with some ramen? That sounds stylish, but we can do that another time. Maybe bring Ryuji along with us since he's always in the mood for that kind of stuff.]

[Alibaba9: Here's the thing. I want to go to Akihabara.]

[Alibaba9: I wanna buy a favorite game of mine, but I'm scared to do it alone. Do you think you can help?]

[TheWildJ0ker: I'm willing to, but you already have Miyabi-san with you. Can't you ask her instead?]

[Alibaba9: Well, she did ask me about it, but I told her that I want to do this on my own. And I just wanna hang out with you in the meantime.]

[TheWildJ0ker: I see. Well, I'll go with you then.]

[Alibaba9: Heh, you're a nice guy.]

[Alibaba9: Ok, it's late, so let's just meet there.]

[Alibaba9: I know how to ride the train after that trip to the beach, so I can get there fine.]

[Alibaba9: Well then, I'll be waiting.]

[Alibaba9: Man, those boobs at the beach have Shinobi Physics for real. I wish I could've gotten Katsuragi's number for a chance to get myself a bigger bust like Makoto now has, hehehe~]

"Does she really have to mention that?" Akira sweatdropped as he couldn't help but blush a bit.

"That Katsuragi girl. I can't believe we met someone like her." The not cat got out in a matter of disbelief along with a slight blush as well. "The fact that she can grow boo- uh, female chests into big sizes is way beyond me." He then added.

"I know." Akira groaned, wondering how his life got to this point. He blamed the bastard who got him arrested. "Besides, she's not that much bigger." He then added.

"Have you been staring...?" Morgana however accused in disapproval.

"We're constantly surrounded by boobs of varying sizes. I can't help it." Akira bluntly countered. "Besides, you have more opportunities to stare." He then reminded.

"That only proves that I'm human." Morgana stated before pausing. "W-Wait, that came out wrong..." He stammered out with a blush.

"Morgana..." Akira began in a very amused tone. "I mean, he's technically male, so I guess I can't blame him in a way." He then thought.

"A-Anyways, we're actually meeting her in Akihabara?" Morgana then questioned. "Is Futaba really going to be okay?"

"She would be if Miyabi-san was there with her, but as you can see, she wanted to do this on her own this time."

"We'd better get over there. Right now." The not cat then suggested right away. "It's nighttime, and something bad can happen to her if we're not there." Morgana then added.

"You're right." The Leader simply nodded at that assumption before standing up from his seat. "Wait here. I'll get my bag upstairs, and then we'll go." He then instructed as he headed to his bedroom.


(Akihabara)

"This must be the place." Morgana got out as he gazed at the store named Electric Town.

"Futaba said she wants to buy a video game, but she doesn't want to do it alone." Akira recalled. "Hopefully I can catch up to her right away." He then added while adjusting his glasses.

"Knowing Futaba, I might have a bad feeling about this." The not cat then got out. "We should get inside and find her now."

"Yeah, let's go." Akira responded before the both of them entered the store.

At the same time they got inside, two teenage boys exited the store with curious and dreamy looks on their faces.

"Dude, did you see that chick with the purple hair back there?" One boy whispered to his friend with a grin.

"Yeah, man. Her tits...so massive. Wish I could ask her out back there." Another guy droned out, drooling a bit with a pervy smile on his face.

"Good luck with that, brother." The first guy replied in a joking manner. "Although, she looks a bit young to have those massive melons on her." He then admitted.

"Are you kidding me!? She's better than the porn that I have back home!" The second boy declared. "And the fact that she looks like my age makes it even better!" He soon added.

The first guy went into shock by his declaration. "D-Dude! The hell! We're in public, you jackass!" He then reminded with a baffled tone.

All of a sudden, a male voice suddenly cleared his throat. "Excuse me, you two. What is that about porn and tits?" The voice then asked.

The two hormonal teenagers turned and saw a security officer who was currently on patrol in the streets of Akihabara, arms crossed in front of his chest and eyes narrowed.

"U-Uh, hello officer. W-We were just...uh..." The second guy stammered in a panic.

"Alright, both of you. Come with me. Now." The officer then ordered in a strict tone. "I'll have a word with you privately on the side of the street. Please comply, or else we'll have this conversation at the police station instead." He soon ordered.

"...Shit." The second guy swore out in depression.

"Why do you have to say that part out loud, you idiot!?" The first guy whispered in a panic.

"I-I couldn't help it, man! I mean, she was huge!" The second guy once more confessed.

"Dude!" The first once more got out in disbelief.

The officer however just sighed to this interaction. "Do you want me to contact your parents here?" He soon asked.

"No sir! We'll go with you." The first guy immediately responded.

The officer simply narrowed his eyes at the two before gesturing them to follow him, leaving the two boys in mention sulking in defeat as they began following the officer for a private lecture on proper behavior.


(Electric Town)

Akira and Morgana then approached the Appliances section of the store to find the orangette.

"Is this where we're supposed to be meeting?" The not cat asked from the Leader's bag.

"Yeah. Looks like it." The Leader agreed with a nod as he glanced at how busy the store was. Lots of people were trying to buy some useful electronics for their homes.

"Is she not here? Try checking around." Morgana soon advised.

Nodding to that, Akira continued looking around to find the young girl.

Eventually, they returned to the Appliances section of the store after a long while. At this point, Akira was getting worried. He double-checked the games section just in case but no dice. "Did she get lost on her way here?" He soon began to wonder as he pulled out his phone.

And that was when he noticed something ahead.

It was Futaba, though she looked like she was crying. In front of her was a security guard who looked like he was trying to ask her some questions. But the one thing that was unusual for the Leader was that there was another girl beside Futaba, who had long purple hair with a thin, black ribbon on her head and was wearing a light purple-colored track suit while holding an unusual-looking bear plushie.

Akira blinked at the sight. Who was that random girl Futaba's clinging onto?

"Miss, do you know this girl?" A security guard questioned the purple-haired girl in a concerned manner.

"Um..." The purple haired girl quietly responded.

"Is she a friend of yours? Family member?" The guard soon asked.

Futaba however was simply crying and sniffing in fear.

The purple-haired girl however simply glanced at the orangette with a slightly concerned look.

"Hey, over there, Akira! It's Futaba!" Morgana called out as she noticed the orangette before noticing the purple-haired girl as well. "And...who is she with right now?" He soon asked.

"I don't know, but she looks...dark and shadowy." Akira then observed.

"...She's got a shinobi sized bust..." Morgana soon stated in a serious tone. "Do you think...?" He began to ask.

"With our luck...yeah..." Akira sighed out while rubbing his head.

"Oh man..." The not cat groaned at that. "We better help before they both have a breakdown in public." Morgana then decided.

"Already on it." Akira responded as he walked up and cleared his throat. "Um, hello officer." He awkwardly greeted.

The security guard noticed Akira. "Hm? Who are you?" He then asked.

"A-Akira!?" The orangette baffled at her friend's presence.

"Akira..." The purple haired girl repeated, her curiosity peaked as she looked at the boy.

"Do you know these girls?" The guard asked as she gestures towards the two girls.

"Yes I do." Akira answered. "Futaba, I've been looking everywhere for you. I'm sorry for the trouble, officer." He then apologized.

Futaba swiftly hid behind the Leader in fear, with the purple-haired girl noticing this as well.

"Hmm...You're not lying to me, are you?" The security guard questioned before tilting his head to see the little girl. All she did was nodding. "Okay, fine, but what about her?" He then asked as he pointed to the bear-hugging girl.

"..." The girl being mentioned simply hugged her bear-like stuffed toy even tighter.

"We're all friends." Akira lied as he rubbed the back of his neck. "I just left for a moment to buy something for myself and then return to them when I'm done. Come on, you have to believe me." He then added.

"...Very well." The guard then got out before leaving to continue his job. "Jeez, what are young girls eating nowadays..." He then thought in his head as he did notice the chest of the purplette and did his best to ignore it until he left.

Once the guard left, all four of them let out breaths of relief.

Morgana then popped out from the Leader's bag. "Futaba, are you okay?" He then asked.

The purple-haired girl meanwhile noticed the cat and got curious.

"S-Sorry... I thought I conquered my fears back at the beach..." Futaba got out in shame as she then sighed.

"What happened?" The not cat then asked.

"There wasn't anyone I knew with me, so I panicked. Felt like my heart was gonna pop... I got so scared all by myself... then I just sorta curled up into a ball..." Futaba explained meekly with a hint of panic and shiver. "Then all these people started staring at me... and the police came... and then it was all over..." She then added.

"Look, Futaba. If you're ever in trouble, just call Akira." Morgana then advised as he gestured to the person in mention.

"...OK." Futaba nodded before standing closer to Akira. "Hm...I feel kinda calm when we're this close. You're okay being like this, right?"

"Are you a remora, Futaba?" The Shujin student asked with a slight sweatdrop.

"Maybe" The orangette replied before frowning. "Urgh... Couldn't even go buy a game by myself. I'm a failure..."

"Futaba..." The not cat trailed off as he looked at the former shut-in in concern.

"But I'm OK outside as long as it's with Akira." Futaba then added before smiling in wonder. "...Is he some kinda key item?" She then gasped in realization.

Murasaki simply looked at this interaction with slight wonder and interest.

"I'm a little uncomfortable being objectified like that..." Akira got out in a joking tone. "But if it helps..."

"Oh, it will. Don't worry, being a Key Item has tons of benefits." Futaba then assured before pumping her fists. "Of course, I'll try and get better at navigation as a reward."

"Is this a deal?" Akira questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"Yeah, a deal! That's good with you?" Futaba responded as she held out her hand.

"How could I say no?" Akira replied as he shook the navigator's hand, feeling his bond with the young girl strengthen. "And now to our friend here..." He then started.

And of course, they couldn't help but glance downwards.

"Dear God, does every girl I meet have S-Rank tits?" Futaba couldn't help but think to herself as she looked at the massive-sized chest of the girl. "She's really stacked! Like what the heck has she been eating?!" She then added in her thoughts.

"Futaba, it's rude to stare." Akira sighed out. At this point, he was not sure if he couldn't look at a normal teenage girl the same way anymore all because of the chest size.

"You're staring too!" The orangette countered.

"You two, please calm down." Morgana interrupted. "Massive-sized boobs or not, we should check if this girl is alright. She looks like she's far from home." He then stated.

Nodding to that, Akira looked towards the girl in mention. "...Hey." He soon started. "Are you okay?" He eventually asked.

"M-Mmhm." The girl nodded as she responded quietly.

"Well that's a relief. Sorry you were dragged into that." Akira sighed out and apologized. "What's your name? Are you lost?" He soon asked.

"Murasaki..." The girl softly responded. "Murasaki...Yahagi..." She then added with the same tone before holding out her bear plushie. "And this is Bebeby..." She then introduced.

"Hello Murasaki." Akira replied in a kind and comforting tone before looking down at the plushie in her hands. "And hello to you, Bebeby." He then greeted.

"You smell like women's underwear." The bear suddenly got out in a rude tone.

That came out with various reactions from the rest.

Akira suddenly jumped as he stepped back a bit by the voice.

"W-What the-!?" Morgana exclaimed as he jumped in shock from the Leader's bag.

"D-Did that stuffed bear just...talk!?" Futaba freaked out as well.

"B-B-Bebe-tan!?" Murasaki squeaked as she covered the plushie's mouth. "S-Sorry...he's like that...around strangers." She quietly apologized.

"But...your bear plushie just talked!" Futaba stated again in a shocked manner. "But then again, Morgana's pretty much the same." She then thought while trying not to show it in her face.

"Wait, did that plushie just mention...I smell like women's underwear?" Akira thought before sniffing himself before blushing.

Oh God, why did he know whose smell this belonged to?

"That's...a stuffed toy, right?" Morgana asked after that state of shock a while ago.

"It would seem so." The orangette agreed as she took a good look at the talking plushie.

"Does it look like it's...breathing?" Morgana noticed.

"...No, it's not. Maybe it's robotic?" Akira responded and deducted in a whisper.

"If it's robotic, then...artificial intelligence!?" Futaba exclaimed in a whisper as well.

"It did say something a bit rude, but it doesn't sound robotic to me." The Leader however stated as he felt up the plushie. "No metal...no wires...just plush." Akira then deduced.

"Really?" Morgana got out in an interested tone.

"Stop touching me, asshole." Bebeby deadpanned.

"Uh, sorry." Akira quickly apologized as he raised his hands away from the bear.

Sniff! Sniff! Sniff! Sniff!

Murasaki meanwhile leaned her head towards the Leader before sniffing him out of curiosity.

"Are you...sniffing me?" Akira got out, a little weirded out as he raised an eyebrow.

Suddenly, Murasaki's eyes widened and gasped a little. "H-How horrible..." She quietly stammered out.

"What? Do I smell bad?" Akira soon asked with a raised eyebrow and a sweatdrop.

"N-no, no...i-it's not that." Murasaki soon started. "You...were accused of something you didn't do..." She suddenly stated.

"How the-!?" Morgana gasped with widened eyes.

As soon as she said that, the two Thieves leaned in closer to the girl. "How did you know that?" Futaba whispered.

"I...I spend a lot of time in my room..." Murasaki admitted, causing the orangette's eyes to widen a little. "My nose...it helps me see people better than my eyes..." She then revealed.

"That's...quite a talent." Akira could only say. "What else do you know from my, uh, smell?" He soon asked, albeit a bit awkwardly.

"Hmm..." Murasaki hummed before sniffing him again. "You...have a lot of friends. Lots of friends. It is like...you naturally draw them to you..." She soon stated.

"...Okay?" The Shujin student got out as he simply stared at her. "Whoa, this girl is something." He then thought in an impressed tone.

"You know... a maid...a model...a cafe owner...a journalist...a politician...and..." Murasaki continued before taking one last sniff. "...You are Akira Kurusu." She eventually stated in awe.

"I didn't even tell her my last name..." Akira thought in slight amazement. "You...know me?" He hesitantly questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"I've heard of you. At my school." Murasaki vaguely responded while tightening the hold on her plushie.

"...Which one?" Akira whispered while narrowing his eyes.

"...A-A private school of mine..." Murasaki soon muttered.

"Akira, she smells like snakes and...something's off but I can't figure what it is." Morgana whispered. "But it's similar to Miyabi." He then stated.

"Similar to Miyabi? Wait...does she go to the same school as Miyabi?" Akira whispered as he cupped his hand near the not cat.

"Yeah, she must be a Hebijo student." Morgana responded with a nod. "So you better not-" He then started, however...

"Kitty..." Murasaki muttered as she looked at it and reached her hand out towards it before rubbing under his chin.

"!?" Morgana got out, standing on edge more a moment...before relaxing and purring in satisfaction.

"Yosh yosh..." Murasaki soon muttered.

"So uh, you like cats, Murasaki-chan?" Futaba asked.

"Small animals..." Murasaki answered. "Hikage-san's Poochie as well." She then added.

"P-Poochie?" Morgana repeated, eye twitching at remembering the puppy mentioned.

"Poochie? Who's Poochie?" Futaba asked

"Hikage-san's pet dog." Akira replied.

"And who's Hikage-san?" Futaba then asked, feigning ignorance.

"A friend from out of town." Akira soon answered.

"Out of town? Huh..." The orangette repeated before getting curious. "Right, Hikage has a pet dog. That's interesting..." She then thought with a finger under her chin.

"Purrrrrrr~" Morgana meanwhile got out, completely ignorant of everything around him.

"Cute..." Murasaki muttered.

"You can just buy one if you want, you know?" Bebeby soon reminded. "Only if you know how to get out of your room most of the time." He then added.

"Ah! I completely forgot about you." Futaba meanwhile remembered.

"His voice sounds like a cursed baby or something..." Akira thought with a sweatdrop. "In any case Murasaki-chan, do you plan to be here long?" He soon asked.

"Mmmm...not really...I'll go back to my school in a week after I buy a game that I liked." Murasaki revealed.

"Ditching school to get a game, I would totally do the same so I can play it for a couple of days." Futaba replied and confessed as she nodded in approval while crossing her arms over her chest and closed her eyes.

"Futaba. Seriously?" Morgana sweatdropped.

Akira simply sighed. "Anyway, it's nice to meet you, Murasaki-san." He got out with a smile. "Hope we can get along." He then added before giving out his hand.

Murasaki hesitated for a moment before slowly grabbing his hand and shook it.


(Fast Forward)

"Forging of evidence, manipulating the media, public influence...you really went all in in spreading your message and existence to society. But unfortunately for you, it eventually led to your downfall. That's quite a shame." Sae

"Well, nevertheless, I am proud of those achievements regardless of circumsta-" Akira began before stopping. "Wait, forging evidence...?" He soon repeated in confusion.

"I have to say, we were impressed by the intel-gathering skills of the Phantom Thieves as well." The prosecutor began as she looked between the files and the boy, who had a hand on his head like he was trying to remember something. "You all performed it like you know the risks and the consequences of it. All until now."

"You know what they say, knowledge is power." Akira pointed out. "And sometimes, you have to use that knowledge to keep yourself safe." He stated.

"I suppose I can't argue with that, at least." The prosecutor nodded to that logic before leaning back and crossing her arms. "Another thing is we also know that this would've been impossible to achieve unless you had a skilled hacker in your team." She then assumed.

Akira simply shifted uncomfortably on his seat from that response.

"Now tell me. Who was doing this?" Sae pressed as she leaned forward.

"...Someone who is...special to me." Akira answered. Seeing that he wasn't going to let up, Sae decided on a different method of attack.

"And this...other girl that you've said with the...massive breast size. Again. Is she a part of your team, too?" The prosecutor questioned.

"No, she is not. She's just a friend that I hang out at school with." Akira simply replied

"You've already told me about the existence of shinobi...whatever you call them..." Sae reminded as she leaned in. "I need to know everything if you want a chance of walking out of here free." She soon stated.

"And I will." Akira assured before giving the prosecutor a smirk. "But not in the way you imagine." He vaguely informed as he continued.

(Rewind)


SHATTER!

I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast acquired a
new now.

It shall become the wings of rebellion
that
breaketh thy chains of captivity.

With the birth of the Hermit Persona
I have obtained the
winds of blessing that
shall lead to
freedom and new power...

RANK 1

SHATTER!

I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast acquired a
new now.

It shall become the wings of rebellion
that
breaketh thy chains of captivity.

With the birth of the Suit of Swords
I have obtained the
winds of blessing that
shall lead to
freedom and new power...

RANK 1

"Two at the same time..." Akira thought to himself, grasping at the two cards before they faded from his view.

Meanwhile, Futaba and Murasaki stared at the Leader, not quite sure what to say as they looked into his glazed over eyes. "Uhhh..." The hacker got out.

"Oi! Snap out of it!" Bebeby called out.

"H-Huh?" Akira got out before regaining his focus. "Oh sorry. I do that sometimes." He sheepishly revealed while rubbing the back of his head.

"...Are you thinking of something dirty?" Bebeby got out, making the boy stare at him. "Makes sense for a teenage guy like you."

"Bebe-tan..." Murasaki quietly chidded while covering the plushie's mouth.

"Aren't you a guy, too, Bebeby?" Futaba however asked. "You sound a bit masculine, so you're technically a guy to me."

"Mmm! Mmm! MMMMM!" Bebeby tried to say something but his mouth was still covered by the purple haired girl's hand.

"Please don't make fun of Bebe-tan." Murasaki soon requested.

"Okay, okay, sorry." Futaba apologized right away. "Lucky bear, getting smothered in those S-Rank tits all day..." She then thought with a slight deadpan.

"Good thing Bebeby-san's not like Morgana." Akira thought with a tone of relief. "That bear really has a way with words." He then added in his thoughts as well.

"All right, with that over with, let's goooo!" Futaba soon decided and cheered.

"Hm? Where?" Akira had to ask.

"Need. Buy. Game!" Futaba answered, sounding like a mindless drone or a caveman. Akira blinked before laughing. He had forgotten why she was here in the first place.

"...Futaba, weren't you bawling your eyes out just a while ago?" Morgana meanwhile deadpanned.

"Yeah, but I have my key item now." Futaba declared with confidence. "Hehe, victory conditions met. Level up and then some!" She then cheered.

Akira could imagine the little Level Up jingle play as a little prompt appeared over her head.

"...Futaba-san..." Murasaki quietly got out.

"Hm? Oh, Murasaki. Wanna come with me? Checking out the game with a fellow gamer would be fun." Futaba soon offered.

To that, the purple haired girl blinked to the offer as she tightened her hold on her plushie. "If that is...alright." Murasaki eventually responded in a quiet tone.

Akira meanwhile chuckled to this as he offered a hand to the purple haired girl. "Sorry about that, she's just about recovering from her shut-in lifestyle." He soon explained.

Murasaki's eyes slightly widened as she stared at the boy after hearing that revelation. "It is...ok." She replied as she took the boy's hand. "Futaba-san's...a shut-in?" She then asked with genuine interest.

"Was." Futaba corrected. "I...I could barely leave my room only a few weeks ago. And I still have a lot of growing to do." She soon stated in a proud tone. "In several places." She then added while glancing downwards at her own chest.

The purplette glanced at the orangette, feeling interested in the other girl. "I see..." Murasaki replied, slightly gripping the hand she was holding the boy's with. "I never would have expected that..." She soon confessed.

"Hehe, looks like she's miles ahead of you." Bebeby meanwhile remarked in amusement.

"I...I can see that..." Murasaki agreed in a slightly sad tone. "But...I know I'll get to her level soon. And then..." She soon trailed off before looking up.

Neither of the Phantom Thieves noticed that Murasaki was looking towards the Phantom Thieves Leader with a small blush on her meek, smiling face.

"Alright, now let's get-" Futaba began, however...

"Wait, hold on." Murasaki interrupted, causing the others to stop.

"What is it?" Futaba got out in a slightly whiny tone. "The line is getting longer the more we stay here." She then pointed out.

"U-Uh...Um...I want...I want to..." Murasaki stammered out as she tried to tell the two something that would signify her growth. "It's...It's..." She began, thought felt something in her throat preventing her from speaking.

"Her number is 555-6872-7254." Bebeby casually revealed. "Her IM name is cutie underscore shut in, shut in is one word." The plushie then informed.

"B-Bebe-tan..." Murasaki mumbled with an embarrassed blush.

"Got it, thanks plushie." Futaba replied as she typed the number in.

Akira nodded to this as he did the same.

["cutie_shutin" has been added to your contacts]

"Aaaaand done!" Futaba proudly concluded. "I've leveled up by makin' another new friend!" She then declared with a grin.

"Futaba..." Akira and Morgana sighed out.

"...Oh, I should give you my phone number too." Futaba remembered, blushing a little. "...What was it again?" She then asked, staring blankly at her phone.

"You can find your number in your contacts." Bebeby responded.

"Oh, thanks." Futaba replied as she did as she promised and gave Murasaki her and Akira's phone number to her.

"Hey, your game?" Akira reminded the girls, finding this whole thing amusing.

"Oh, right! Come on, Murasaki! TO THE GAMES SECTION!" Futaba declared...before grabbing her Leader's hand. "Um, take me there, Key Item." She awkwardly ordered.

"R-Right!" Murasaki responded, a little more enthusiastic as the group dashed off.

While they had to deal with a long line, due to all the commotion they caused, eventually the gamer girls got their copies. After a little more time discussing the game, which the two were more than enthusiastic about, they left the store with their heads held high, ready to go home and either play the night away or sleep.

"Welp, I guess I'll see you again, Murasaki." Futaba concluded with a finger salute. "Let's play online some time, okay?" She then suggested.

"I...I will..." Murasaki replied with a nod. "It was nice meeting you two." She then added with a bow.

"It was nice meeting you too, Murasaki." Akira responded with a smile. "And you too, Bebeby." He then added.

"You're alright." Bebeby got out in an off-handed manner. "But I'm watching you..." The plushie then warned.

"Bebe-tan..." Murasaki muttered in embarrassment before turning to the Thieves. "Goodbye!" She then got out with a bow before rushing off.

"Well, you failed on a spectacular scale." Bebeby concluded as the purplette slumped down.

"All my training...all for nothing..." Murasaki muttered in shame.

"Eh, I wouldn't say that. You got his number plus another at least." "You just plain fucked up this time, but you can try again. You do have another week. You can even ask that lust crazed blonde to help out."

"H-Hai..." "...He was cute..." She then confessed while blushing.

"...Eh?" Bebeby responded in confusion, but got no response as the purplette left for home with a skip in her step.


(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

"Is everything there?" Yozakura asked once again as she and the rest of her sisters arrived at the gate.

"We all made sure I had everything for the trip. I think I'm good." Shiki assured as she brought her luggage a little closer.

"Are you sure you want to leave right now?" Murakumo asked in concern.

"...I have to see her, and I'm the only one with the permission left to head to Tokyo." Shiki stated while putting on a brave face. "She needs to be told with someone there physically to comfort her." She then explained as she went to get her things.

"At least stay for dinner." Minori suggested. "We still haven't eaten anything. I'll make something real quick before you go." She then offered.

"There are plenty of shops open at night. I'll buy something along the way." Shiki responded in a no nonsense tone. "Besides, the train I'm taking will have a shower and a bed. I'll be fine." She then revealed.

"Okay..." Minori got out in an understanding manner before stepping back.

"...I guess it'll be our job to prepare the funeral procession." Yozakura sighed, wincing as she said that. "It shouldn't take that long. Most shinobi funerals aren't very big affairs. Good luck, Shiki." She then stated before quickly hugging the fashionista.

"I don't need luck. I need courage." Shiki insisted, placing a hand on her chest just to see if she was still alive. "I don't know what I'll say to her." She soon confessed.

"We don't either, but we'll be there for you and Yumi when the time comes." Murakumo responded.

To that, the blonde nodded as she held her bag...

WHOOSH!

And vanished in an instant.

The three remaining Elites meanwhile sighed as they took out their phones. "...Do you think we should tell Akira-nii?" Minori soon asked.

That in turn got the attention of the others. "Why would he be a factor?" Murakumo questioned. "Our focus should be on Yumi, not him." She soon reminded.

"...Sorry." Minori apologized in a quiet tone.

"It's okay. I'm sure he'll help as well, along with any other friends Yumi made along the way." Murakumo responded, glad her mask was hiding her blush.

"Now, what do you want for dinner?" Yozakura soon asked as she turned to the remaining members of the team.

"I don't feel like eating anything too heavy." Murakumo admitted.

"Me too." Minori agreed with a nod.

"I know, but we have to take care of ourselves. A loss of appetite is often the result of grief." Yozakura instructed. "I'll make extra tonight since we haven't eaten all day." She then offered.

"...I want pancakes tonight." Minori answered.

"What?" The masked girl got out in surprise.

"I want big fluffy pancakes." Minori declared.

"Minori..." Yozakura sighed out before nodding. "Alright, but you're helping." She then instructed.

"Hehehe..." The childish girl managed to let out a small giggle before she and the mask wearing brunette began heading back.

Yozakura, however, stayed behind and looked up to the night sky, taking in a deep breath. "I just hope nothing else goes wrong..." She then sighed.


(?)

It woke up.

It could sense something on the other side...no, it was elsewhere...

It was that...strange yet alluring scent that it had been hunting down since discovering it.

And it was growing stronger...

It felt something...no, someone simply...killing.

Destroying anything in their way.

Letting out all their sadness and rage into the blood they spilled.

If it could follow it...then maybe...

THUD!

Wait, there! In that newly formed crack! Small but...with enough effort...

Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig.

There. The smell that it had faintly detected. It was growing...stronger...

Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig.

The crack grew wider and wider. It could feel the rumbles and hear the moans of lesser beings on the other side.

Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig. Dig.

And finally...

It broke through.

The source.

This blood...these...raw negative emotions...

No, not negative...simply rejected...discarded down into this place like trash...

Taking the form of lesser creatures that ran away at the sight of it.

It let out a roar.

It will be a delicious and wondrous feast.


Save Game…Quit!


Asuka/Yin's Social Stats:

Leadership- Mastermind (Level 4)

Knowledge- Professor (Level 4)

Proficiency- Masterful (Level 4)

Diligence- Thorough (Level 4)

Courage- Daring (Level 4)

Homura/Yang's Development Stats:

Maturity- Adult (Level 4)

Knowledge- Professor (Level 4)

Femininity- Natural (Level 4)

Elegance- Gentlewoman (Level 4) → Yamato Nadeshiko (Level 5)

Understanding- Motherly (Level 4)


Whew! Done! So Murasaki meets Akira and Shiki is heading for Tokyo…while some sort of creature may or may not have broken into Mementos because of some dickbag killing a lot of Shadows in their off time. I wonder who it is…

I wanna point out that all the Gessen scenes follow the 5 Stages of Grief. Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance.

Anyways, for next chapter, we're going back to school! Who knows what these idiots will do for fun tomorrow. Hang out in the schoolyard, eat out at a diner, kill God. Oh what fun it is to be a Phantom Thief!

UknownHero signing off, my friends!