Senran Persona: Ninjas of Hearts

by UknownHero

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

132. Emerald Heart

Happy New Year! UknownHero here and welcome to 2024 and a new chapter of Senran Persona! It's the Year of the Dragon, baby, which means… Like A Dragon Infinite Wealth. I hope you all got some good food, spent some time with friends and family, and haven't made a mistake so early in the year. And uh… be sure to vote in the US. This year will probably be the casino arc and then next year is the finale, given the pace we go at so… yeah… 2026… oh boy.

Senran Persona has a TV Tropes page. Check it out!

Also, shout out to RosyMiranto18! They made a blog post about this story. Check it out, it's a really interesting read.

Anyways, onto reviews! To TheUrbanLegend: Oh thank god someone caught that. Thank you for getting that reference. To void fenrir: Uh… I have no idea what you just said. Despite all the Kamen Rider references, the only version I've seen is that western one from Cartoon Network during their live action era… and hated it. WWPLunatique: Yeah, I have no idea why it was written as a birthmark and not a tattoo. Probably should've changed that before release.

And… that's it! Time for a personally long awaited moment… a Max Rank Confidant! Time to rock!

Load Game…Start!

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Chapter 132: Emerald Heart

---

(9/30, Early Morning)

(Harajuku, Haruka's Apartment)

Ryōbi yawned as she slowly opened her eyes. Blinking and wiping the sleep out her eyes, she felt as though she was...missing something.

Upon sitting up and looking down, she realized what she was missing: her clothes.

"What the actual fuck!? Where am I!?" Ryōbi exclaimed as she covered herself up with...someone's arm?

The petite brunette froze before slowly turning her head towards the owner of the arm.

"...Hello." Imu tiredly greeted, just as undressed as her.

Ryōbi blinked, processing the situation she was in right now...

WHAM!

...before punching the poor girl straight in the face.

"Ow! Daughter of a-" Imu screamed in pain, flailing her arm around for her glasses.

Since she was already grabbing onto her arm, Ryōbi pulled the other girl off the bed and stomped on her head. "PIECE OF SHIT! I'M GONNA-" She soon began, however...

"Ah, you're awake." Haruka got out as she stepped into the bedroom.

"Huh?" Ryōbi got out, surprised at first but quickly went back to anger. "...WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU NAKED TOO!?" She soon screamed.

"It's my apartment. I do what I want." Haruka claimed as she proudly showed off her body.

BOING!

"Heeeeey..." Tsumuji greeted from behind her mistress.

"...Who the- Am I in the middle of an fuckin' orgy!?" Ryōbi got out and exclaimed with a panicked blush.

"No, Haruka is just a massive perv." Imu spoke up with a sigh.

"Shut up, fuckface!" Ryōbi shouted out as she rubbed her heel into the woman's head before looking back at the curly-haired blonde. "Weren't we in Yongen, heading to the bath house?" She soon questioned.

"We were. You fell unconscious from overheating so I brought you here to my residence where you have been resting for the entire night." Haruka informed in a casual manner.

"That's a lie. You probably knocked me out or something." Ryōbi accused.

"No. I suggested we should leave after a few minutes but you decided to stay for some odd reason." Haruka however revealed. "...You lasted an additional five minutes." She then added.

"No I didn't! I'm a shinobi! I should at least last 100 hours." Ryōbi denied and declared.

"No, I timed it myself." Haruka informed as she pulled out her phone. "See? Exactly 4:56.69 spent before overheating. I even took a selfie of you!" She soon stated as she showed the petite girl a picture of Ryōbi's lifeless form in the steamy water (with swirls in her eyes) and Haruka making a peace sign. "You look so cute when unconscious. Don't take that out of context." She then added.

"Jfjisjwoiokadmfuck...!" Ryōbi growled as she glared at the doctor-in-training.

"Can you please get off my face!?" Imu demanded.

"You know you could just grab her leg and throw her off you." Tsumuji pointed out.

"Oh, she is not strong enough to even do that after the fucking beating her sis- SHIT!" Ryōbi began in a cocky manner, only to yelp as she fell over.

SLAM!

"I was being polite by asking first." Imu breathed out as she found her glasses and put them on.

"Fucking...why were we even in your bed in the first place!?" Ryōbi demanded as she picked herself off the floor.

"There were no other beds in here." Imu simply answered.

"Haruka-sama took the couch. I had to sleep on the floor." Tsumuji informed.

"No one asked you, loser!" Ryōbi called out.

"Why don't we calm down and introduce each other." The main tenet of the apartment soon suggested in a calm manner. "Ryōbi-chan, Imu. Imu, Ryōbi-chan." Haruka soon introduced one another.

"We've met." They both deadpanned.

"And Haruka told me what you want to do to Miyabi..." Imu revealed as she narrowed her eyes as she prepared to summon her weapon.

Ryōbi meanwhile instantly summoned her own weapon and aimed it straight at her boobs. "Oh, that's convenient. I can get where she lives out of you." She soon declared.

The maid meanwhile grabbed both of their arms. "No fighting in the apartment!" Tsumuji demanded. "This is a neutral zone." She soon stated.

"Fuck the neutral zone, I'm gonna neutralise her ass!" Ryōbi growled.

"And I share the same sentiment-" Imu began, however...

JAB! JAB!

"AH!" Ryōbi and Imu cried out as the doctor in training swiftly jabbed needles into their necks, injecting a blue serum into their systems.

"Ow! The hell was that!?" Imu exclaimed as she held her neck.

"What the fuck!? Are you trying to get us high!?" Ryōbi cursed in shock as she also held her own neck.

"No, this is a concoction I made to make it so you two will become docile and polite in three, two...one." Haruka revealed before suddenly counting down.

POOF!

Tsumuji and Haruka coughed as thick blue smoke filled the room as the maid then went and opened the window. Soon enough, it was revealed...that nothing happened.

"...Was that supposed to do anything?" Ryōbi questioned with a glare.

"What the!?" Haruka gasped in surprise before looking down at her syringes. "But I was sure it would...hold on...Delayed reaction?" She suddenly got out, just as-

THUD!

"WOOF WOOF~!" Ryōbi suddenly barked, happily panting while sitting on the heels of her feet. "Bau bau~! Master~" She soon cooed out.

"... You made them animals?" Tsumuji soon asked, only to see a look of confusion from her fellow Crimson Squad member.

"...Is there a computer around here?" Imu meanwhile asked, sounding more...depressed and reclusive. "I wanna order a new game...and eat some pizza or some cup noodles." She then mumbled as she then did her best to crawl under the bed to hide.

"Uh...what?" Tsumuji only got out as she noticed this as well.

Ryōbi then began panting with her tongue out like an actual dog. "Master~ Punish my delicious booty~" She soon begged.

"...Too bright..." Imu moaned in despair, attempting to hide her face with her own breasts (and failing). "Need to be alone in a dark room..." She then mumbled.

"...Haruka-sama, what is happening?" Tsumuji soon asked in growing concern.

"Uh..." Haruka got out before her eyes widened in realization. "That was not the Docile potion. That was one of the potions I was currently experimenting on. And I don't even know what the expected effects are..." She got out and revealed.

"So you have no idea what it is!?" Tsumuji exclaimed.

Haruka only went silent in embarrassment before sighing in defeat.

"Haruka-sama, may I speak freely?" The maid requested in a formal manner.

"You may." Haruka responded with a nod.

"You're a fucking dumbass." Tsumuji bluntly stated.

"I know." The blonde doctor in training responded in agreement. "I should really start labeling these potions of mine correctly and properly." Haruka muttered.

"Agreed, Haruka-sama." Tsumuji responded with a nod of agreement. "Do you have an antidote for it ready?" She then asked in concern.

"I...still have to make one." Haruka informed as they slowly backed their way towards the door.

"Then go." Tsumuji ordered in a serious manner. "I'll make sure they don't just jump from the window or something- OH GOD!" She soon began to assure, only to be tackled by the brunette.

BOING!

"BEAT ME, MAID LADY~!" Ryōbi soon begged...while now suddenly having a bigger bust and the ends of her hair being blonde now.

"HELP! I NEED AN ADULT!" Tsumuji cried out as she tried to get the (now) aggressively masochistic girl off her who moaned at every kick and punch to her body.

"This world is cruel...being a shinobi is a bother...I need my Miyabi-chan plushie..." Imu depressingly mumbled, her bust now being bigger as well now while the ends of her hair turned purple.

"HARUKA-SAMA, PLEASE MAKE AN ANTIDOTE NOOOOW!" Tsumuji panickingly begged.

"Thank you for your sacrifice, Tsumuji-chan! You will be remembered!" Haruka quickly got out before diving into her lab room, locking the door behind her.

"IT WASN'T VOLUNTARY, HARUKA-SAMA!" Tsumuji called back before whimpering as the brunette straddled her. "Um, nice doggie?" She meekly got out.

"Whip me, Mistress~" Ryōbi whispered in a seductive manner while rubbing her bare sex on her leg.

Tsumuji had a lot to deal with before her master finally created an antidote for whatever hell she had just unleashed in their apartment.

She just hoped none of the nearby neighbors would hear the ruckus and report them to the authorities out of concern.

---

(Hebijo Academy, Dead Forest)

Meanwhile, the Crimson Squad was readying their escape plan, with the first step involving some set-up in and around the school. With only so many members, they had to split up to ensure they could cover as much ground as they could in a short amount of time.

And currently, Mirai and Hikage were in the middle of the dead forest that surrounded the school, checking every shadow and noise they came across while carrying knapsacks full of important equipment.

"...Why do I feel like something ridiculous is going on with Haruka right now?" Hikage suddenly and randomly asked out loud.

"Any more ridiculous than what's happening here?" Mirai countered with a raised eyebrow.

"Probably not." Hikage had to admit.

"Thank you. Now stop thinking out loud and help me set up these fire bombs." Mirai soon got out as she began using a kunai to cut into the dead tree. Most of them were hollow, which was perfect for hiding illegal crap...like explosives. "Still can't believe there were freaking bombs in our walls." She grumbled.

"Shinobi paranoia." Hikage simply reminded. "Their loss, our gain." She then added.

"Getting them all to set off all at once is gonna be a bitch." Mirai groaned. "There has to be an easier way than this." She then added.

"We don't exactly have the resources to do anything fancy. As long as it works." Hikage responded.

"But we don't know if it works. We can't test it at all." Mirai grumbled as she began wiring the bomb. "And our instructions come from some sketchy website Murasaki found. This plan is on really shaky grounds." She then reminded and confessed.

"We don't have the time." Hikage reminded with a frown. "Murasaki cannot ever use the Root again. Ever. And the test is only days away. We can't fail." She soon declared in a serious tone.

"I know." Mirai responded with a sigh as she adjusted the firebomb. "And...there. Three down, only 14 more to go us." She soon declared.

"34 firebombs in total." Hikage idly muttered. She could only imagine the resulting inferno once their escape plan goes off.

That in turn made Mirai pout. "You know, this would go a lot faster if you actually helped." The eyepatch-wearing girl pointed out. "Yomi-oneechan and Murasaki-oneechan are pulling their weights with their half. At least mark the trees." She then added.

"I'm not confident in setting up the firebombs." Hikage had to admit. "Plus, I need to take care of Poochie. She is our eyes and ears for anyone who wanders within our vicinity." She then added.

"Arf arf!" Poochie in turn happily barked out from atop the green haired girl's head while looking around.

"Also, wouldn't it be easier if you did it without the eyepatch?" Hikage had to point out.

"I'm used to it! I've had this thing for a good while!" Mirai called out before double checking the firebomb. "No, wait, the red wire goes with the blue wire." She realized before correcting her mistake.

BZZT! BZZT!

"Hikage, do you mind getting my phone? Busy here." Mirai asked.

"Got it." Hikage responded as she quickly pulled the vibrating phone out of the first year's pocket and answered it. "Hikage here, report." She responded and instructed.

---

(Hebijo Academy, Elites Room)

"What is taking them so long?" Ashiya wondered out loud.

"I'm sure they'll be out in a minute." Murasaki assured.

"It's been ten." Bashō pointed out with a slight frown. "Are you sure we can't just go to their rooms?" She soon suggested.

"Erm, they're really paranoid." The purplette nervously answered. "If you tried to wake them up, you'd probably get a kunai to the throat thanks to Hebijo's training regiment..." Murasaki then warned as she quickly glanced over to the beansprout loving blonde on the other side of the room.

"Thank you, Murasaki-chan." The blonde mentally thanked the purplette before focusing on her phone. "Guys, we might need some back up here." Yomi whispered as she narrowed her eyes.

"What's wrong?" Hikage's voice asked from the phone.

"Bashō-chan and Ashiya-chan are asking for you two." Yomi informed as she watched the purplette delaying them from the other side of the room. "They want to train." She then added.

"Then why don't you make up an excuse for us?" The greenette then asked once again.

"We did. And uh...They're waiting for the both of you to wake up." Yomi whispered and awkwardly revealed.

"...And you couldn't think of a better lie!?" Mirai's voice spat out from the phone this time.

"They practically ambushed us after we finished setting up the Elites Room bomb! It was the first thing that came to mind." Yomi whispered in a panic. "What do we do?" She soon asked.

"Mirai is in the middle of setting up a firebomb. If we leave it here half done, someone might find it...or it might go off." Hikage informed, most likely frowning in concern on the other side. "Just keep them busy until we can make it there. Mirai, go faster." She soon ordered.

"If I go faster, we go boom! Have some patience!" Mirai called out in frustration.

Yomi sighed before hanging up and walking back to the group. "Hey guys." She called out.

"So, what was that phone call about?" Bashō questioned with a raised eyebrow. "Was it Hikage-senpai?" She then guessed.

"Oh...uh...no, it was my...best friend." Yomi responded, saying the first thing that came to mind. "We haven't talked in a while, so I was glad to have heard her voice again." She then revealed.

"Hm, it was an awfully short conversation." Ashiya remarked.

"Ah, they're going to school right now. Couldn't talk for long." Yomi quickly waved off.

"Uh, Yomi-chan." Murasaki spoke up. "Who is this best friend you were talking about?" She soon questioned, silently urging the blonde to keep talking.

"Erm," Yomi clammed up as she realized she may have talked herself into a corner, as there was only one person she knew that fit that description. "It...It was...someone I knew when I still lived in the slums." She vaguely revealed.

"A childhood friend?" Ashiya assumed in a curious manner.

"Would you like to talk about it?" Murasaki then urged, obviously doing as much as she could to buy more time.

Yomi winced. "...Ah, yes." She soon breathed out, having no choice but to dig up what was once buried. "I used to see her for dinner with her family when we were younger. I always appreciated those meals since, well, it was better than the leftover scraps I'd find in the garbage. We would play with each other every time I came over to visit, it was like visiting a really close cousin...and eventually, I began to see her like a sister too." She soon revealed, a nostalgic smile breaking out on her face.

"Aw, that's so sweet." Ashiya couldn't help but coo out.

However, Yomi's expression soon darkened. "Then...one day, when I came over...she was alone with her sibling. Her parents were killed in a car crash." She soon informed, causing everyone's eyes to widen. "The girl I played with, so happy and bubbly...she was gone almost overnight. She couldn't even look at me anymore, not unless she had a bag over her head. I couldn't let that stand so I started doing that too so she wouldn't be so alone." She then revealed in a depressed and saddened tone.

"Yomi-chan..." Murasaki whispered in sympathy.

"What happened next?" Bashō soon asked with a small frown.

"...Nothing..." Yomi revealed in a hollow and saddened tone. "She just...disappeared one day. She didn't even say goodbye..." She then recalled.

"Oh..." Ashiya soon got out, saddened by the story, only to perk up a few seconds later. "But...But hey, at least the story has a happy ending, right?" She soon pointed out.

"Huh?" Yomi got out, perplexed by the statement.

"You...reconnected?" Murasaki reminded as she nudged the blonde.

"O-Oh, yeah. Um, yeah, w-we did. Quite recently, in fact." Yomi lied while giggling, hiding her sadness as best as she could. "She is...doing well. Not super rich or super poor, but super...middle class." She awkwardly added with a false smile.

"Well, I'm glad you're both in good positions now." Bashō stated with a smile.

"Yeah, good positions..." Yomi thought as she quickly glanced over to where she and Murasaki planted their firebombs.

Right under the floor...where Bashō and Ashiya were standing.

"...Why are you looking at our feet?" Bashō soon asked.

"They're...really nice feet, ehehe..." Yomi responded in an awkward manner.

"...Eh?" Ashiya only got out in slight bewilderment.

"Oh man, I should not have stayed up that late!" Mirai yawned as she and the greenette rounded the corner. "Oh, hey! What's going on here?" She soon asked.

"Guys, you're awake!" Ashiya happily exclaimed. "Why did you sleep in for so long?" She soon asked.

"Oh, I was just...doing stuff." Mirai vaguely muttered out.

"Flicking the bean." Hikage casually revealed.

"Arf! Arf!" Poochie barked out.

Bashō and Ashiya blinked however blinked to that. "...Huh?" The former only got out in slight confusion.

"...Well, as long as you're here." The cultist responded with a shrug.

"Yeah, um, do you mind if you train with us?" Bashō soon requested.

"Sure. We could use the warm up." Hikage responded with a nod as she and youngest Elite walked with the new wave girls...all while subtly giving the purplette and blonde a quick thumbs-up.

"Crisis averted..." Yomi thought.

...It did make the blonde wonder though...

Where was Murakumo-chan?

And...how was she doing after all this time?

---

(Gessen Academy, Elites Room)

Murakumo really wished she was doing something other than this. At least, without her mask.

"Mou...how did Shiki convince me of this!?" Murakumo mentally cried as she slowly but surely unbuttoned her blouse.

As once again, a disagreement between them was about to be resolved with their boobs.

"Hope you're ready, Murakumo-chii!" Shiki stated eagerly as she unbuttoned her blouse as well.

"Can't we do this normally?" Yozakura questioned as she shook her head. "With the hands?" She then added in a flat tone.

"Too boring." Shiki replied, waving off such concerns. "Boobs are more fun! Plus, Kurokage taught us this and we can't disrespect his memory by using those methods." She then eagerly explained as she began unclipping her bra from her back.

"You added the part with the boobs, Shiki-san, remember?" Yozakura sternly reminded with hands on her hips.

"And that's what makes it more fun to play rock-paper-scissors that way, Yozakura-chii~" Shiki ended her statement with a grin.

Yozakura sighed again before turning to the youngest of their group. "Minori...?" She soon got out, only to see that she was helping strip the older brunette...to nothing but her panties.

"T-That's too much, Minori-chan!" Murakumo squeaked.

"Eeeehh?" Minori pouted with a face. "But Shiki-chan's doing too, see? Look at her!" She then pointed out.

"Wha-?" Yozakura dumbly got out before looking over to see the blonde taking off her panties. "Going topless is enough!" She soon exclaimed.

"Hehe~ But would it be better naked though?" Shiki gigggled.

"No!" Yozakura instantly called out.

"Well, it's already off!" Shiki declared as she flung her panties away. "Minori-chii, go!" She then ordered.

"Haaaaiii!" Minori happily responded as she pulled down the older brunette's panties right away.

That made the ponytailed shinobi shudder in shame as she instinctively covered herself with her arms. "W-Why!?" Murakumo embarrassingly exclaimed.

"This decision must be treated with the utmost importance!" Shiki passionately declared. "It's do or die!" She soon added in a dramatic tone.

"I'd rather die..." Murakumo mumbled, hugging her now nude body. "But...I can't give up here!" She then declared as she held onto her breasts.

"Now that's what I'm talking about!" Shiki encouraged with a smirk.

"Go Murakumo-chan! Go Shiki-chan!" Minori cheered ahead with pumped fists in the air.

"This escalation is complete nonsense!" Yozakura exclaimed before letting out yet another defeating sigh. "Might as well get it over with. Are you both ready!?" She decided and asked.

"You know it." Shiki confidently and cockily replied.

"H-Hai!" Murakumo stammered out.

"Then...let this battle commence!" Yozakura reluctantly announced as she chopped the air.

BURNING UP!

Murakumo and Shiki stared at each other down, the latter with a smirk and the former with a somewhat nervous look as they held their own breasts in anticipation. "Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" The duo got out.

Shiki's breasts were wide apart, and so did Murakumo's. Both were paper symbols for the breasts.

"A draw!?" Minori gasped.

"Again!" Yozakura ordered before groaning. How was this like officiating a karate tournament now!?

"Forfeit now, Murakumo-chii, or you might suffer a humiliating loss." Shiki suggested as she licked her lips.

Murakumo seriously considered that for a second before standing her ground. "I-I'm already humiliated! I have nothing to lose!" She retorted back with a serious tone.

"Murakumo-chan is getting pumped up!" Minori exclaimed.

"Wait, what are you guys competing for, anyway?" Yozakura however asked aloud with a slightly irritated tone.

"Who gets the last of Minori-chii's cookies!" Shiki answered.

Yozakura blinked. "...They are delicious." She soon admitted.

"And thus, we must fight!" Shiki dramatically declared.

"We beat each other within an inch of our lives only the day before." Yozakura reminded in a flat tone. "It ended with no one winning then..." She then mumbled.

"J-Just let us resolve this ourselves." Murakumo soon got out before focusing on the blonde. "Ready?" She then asked.

"Ready!" Shiki responded with a grin.

"Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" Shiki and Murakumo once again exclaimed as they shifted their breasts with their hands the second time.

Both of their breasts were pressed together in the middle, which were the breast equivalent of rock.

"Another draw!?" Minori gasped.

"Again!" Yozakura called out.

"Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" Another draw! "Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" Yet another draw. "Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" Draw, again. "Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!" Yeah, they were matching boob movements for a while.

That was, until later, after 68 matches...

Shiki and Murakumo had become really sweaty at this point, panting heavily as they stared each other down for what was hopefully the last time. "Rock-paper-scissors, boobs!"

And surprisingly (and finally) this time, on the 69th round, both of their breasts were now different.

Shiki had spread her breasts, choosing rock, and Murakumo had one breast moved up and the other one down, which is the breast equivalent for scissors.

"It's finally over!" Yozakura breathed out as the older brunette raised her arms in victory while the blonde collapsed to her knees. "Murakumo wins!" She announced as she gestured her hand at her.

"Yaaay!" Minori happily exclaimed...with a mouth full of cookie crumbs.

Prompting everyone to stare at the childish Elite.

"..."

"..."

"..."

"...You guys were taking too long." Minori mumbled before swallowing the fight duo's hopes and dreams.

"You could've saved some for the winner, Minori-chii!" Shiki shouted out.

"So much effort, so much time, so much...unnecessary nudity..." Yozakura sighed as she shook head. "All for...a cookie." She concluded in a disappointed manner.

"Come ooon, it's not like anyone would take a peek at us." Shiki reminded. "Well...unless if Akira-kun's here with us..." She then teasingly added.

"Huh? Why would Akira-nii do that?" Minori innocently asked with a head tilt.

"...Minori, I think you need to read some hen-" Shiki began, only for the acting leader to cover her mouth before she ruined the childish girl's innocence.

"D-Don't put that into my- our heads!" Yozakura however stammered out as she tried to hide her reddening face.

Murakumo however froze at that before rapidly picking up her clothes and putting them on to cover herself once again. However, without a mask, she employed...desperate measures.

"...Why are your panties on your-" Minori began to ask, however...

"I gotta go, good-bye everyone!" Murakumo squeaked before dashing into her room.

WOOSH!

"Well, she's gone." Shiki started with a sigh after she pushed the bluette's hand away. "Okay, is it time for classes now already?" She then asked.

Yozakura immediately glanced at the blonde in slight surprise. "...Apparently it is, Shiki-san." She eventually answered, not expecting that sudden shift in terms of priorities. "Ten minutes before our next period." She soon informed.

"Oh great! 'Cause I still have to finish that homework before submission." Shiki got out in relief and then explained. "And in case you're asking, Yozakura-chii, I'm almost finished with it, so don't worry." She then added.

"So are you going to put your clothes on now?" Yozakura got out as she glanced down at the nude fashionista's body.

"Yeah, yeah, I will." Shiki assured before picking up her clothes. "...Where did I fling my panties to?" She soon asked.

"Uh...I think Murakumo-chan is using them." Minori informed. Although, she couldn't remember which one was which. Were the panties she wore on her face the blonde's or her own...?

Shiki only froze at that response as she looked at her fellow first year in disbelief. "...Okay, that's just disgusting if she's using mine." She eventually admitted. "I'll just get a new one or whatever..." She soon got out.

Yozakura sighed. Without missions to go on due the whole thing with the incidents and Phantom Thieves and training becoming monotonous, the sad thing is this was probably going to be the highlight of her week.

Pulling out her phone, she went to her contacts and scrolled over to Yumi and Akira's names.

"...I hope you two are experiencing more interesting things than we are..." The acting leader sighed before heading out.

---

(9/30, Morning)

(Shujin Academy, Classroom)

It was surprisingly shaping up to be a rather normal day in Shujin Academy for the Phantom Thieves. There didn't seem to be any ongoing problems and people kept the talk about them and Okumura to a tolerable level.

Now if only it lasted for the rest of the day.

"How much will a 38-degree angle measure when looked at under a microscope that magnifies ten times?" Asuka asked.

Akira smirked. "Easy. It doesn't change. Next." He soon answered.

"Are we so bored already that we're doing riddles now?" Ann got out with a raised eyebrow. "We just finished homeroom. It's only been ten minutes since Kawakami-sensei left." She then reminded.

"We're continuing a conversation from earlier this morning, Ann." Homura explained. "We need to keep our minds just as sharp as our skills. God knows the next, uh, place will have some really stupid puzzles and riddles we have to solve." She then explained before grumbling to herself.

"So far we had Spot the Difference, Math, Binary Code, and...what do you call the thing we did at the library?" Akira listed off before pausing with a frown.

"Burn it down?" Ann guessed before blushing. "No, wait, I mean putting the books where they belong." She soon corrected.

"So...a sorting puzzle?" Asuka soon guessed.

"That works." Morgana got out with a nod. "It's been these types of things we have to solve. So, the better we get at these things, the faster we do them, and the sooner we get to go home." He then stated.

"And hey, they can be fun. I'd give us something to do on breaks." Akira claimed. "I'll start: I come from a mine and always get surrounded by wood. Everyone uses me. What am I?" He then quizzed.

"Your mom." Asuka instinctively answered.

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"...Oh, a pencil." The Vice Leader soon corrected, letting herself frown. Huh, why was that the first thing she guessed?

"A-Ahem. Let's uhh...let's try a different one." Morgana suggested with a false cough. "Here's something I looked up during one of my scouting runs. With pointed fangs I sit and wait; with piercing force I crunch out fate; grabbing victims, proclaiming might; physically joining with a single bite. What am I?" He then got out.

"Oh, I got it." Homura almost automatically spoke up with a smile. "Black mambas. Hebijo threw me into a pit full of 'em once and kept me there for a week. When I came out, I think I had more poison than blood in my system, or at least that's what Haruka told me as she was jabbing my breasts with anti-venom. She broke a few of my ribs because of that. Still beat her and the rest of my team up that afternoon. By the way, raw snakes are actually pretty good. And their eggs can really hydrate you." She then explained before letting out a sigh. "...That was a weird Golden Week." She soon remarked.

"..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"...Riddles are now banned from our group." Morgana declared.

"Yeah...yeah..." Akira agreed with a nod and a sigh.

"H-How are you even...?" Asuka asked with a pale face.

"Poison and drug resistance through inoculation. You can blame...the ones who raised me at a young age for that." The tan skinned girl sighed out. "Now come on guys, we better settle down. Class is going to start soon." Homura then reminded. It was at that moment that the teacher opened the door, causing the students to stop mingling and take their seats.

"Well then, let's get started. I hope you've remembered what we've gone over." Hiruta got out as he walked into the room and set down his things. However, at that moment...

DING DONG!

"Um...Mr. Hiruta, please come to the faculty office at once."

"Oh...? What's all this then?" The teacher got out in surprise. "...I'm going to the faculty office, so make sure you take this time to study on your own." He soon instructed.

A few students nodded as they watched the teacher leave the room. Silently, they waited with bated breaths as they slowly heard his footsteps fade away. After a few more seconds, finally...

"Slack off!" Mishima announced, causing his classmates to cheer.

"Thank you, sensei." Akira muttered as he leaned back in his chair.

"Gonna finish that book." Homura decided as she took out the item in mention she got from her committee member.

"You still haven't finished that." Ann questioned with a raised eyebrow.

"It's really damn long, okay?" Homura groaned before opening the book from where she bookmarked the page.

"You should learn speed reading, Homura." Akira suggested.

"Eh? There's a book for that?" Homura got out with widened eyes. "What's it called?" She then asked.

"...Speed Reader." Akira answered, causing the girls to blink at the simple name. "I even have it right here. Borrowed it from the library before class. You can also get a copy in Jinbocho. It's 12,800 yen so there's probably gonna be copies left." He then added.

"Oh." Homura replied, blinking. "Do you mind letting me borrow it then?" She soon asked.

"Well, considering I was gonna read it for fun, I don't mind. Just make sure to give it back." Akira replied as he handed the book over the tan skinned girl.

"For fun? You already read it?" Asuka assumed with widened eyes.

"I finished every book in the library I wanted to read. I need new books." Akira clarified. "Maybe I should swing by Akihabara. I might be able to catch up to One Piece now." He soon mumbled to himself.

"Ah, Katsu-nee reads that!" Asuka gasped. "What chapter are you on?" She then had to ask.

"One." Akira bluntly answered before looking inside his bag. "Welp, might as well make more tools for the next heist." He soon decided as he pulled out his mini-crafting kit and his materials. "I should have enough for the Eternal Lockpick. Morgana, you mind making sure I don't make mistakes?" He soon requested.

"Sure." Morgana nodded to that. "And remember, liquid mercury is really toxic." He soon warned.

"Oh, damn, right." Akira cursed. He didn't want to put himself and others in danger just for a really good lockpick. He soon looked around, checking if anyone was paying attention to him. "...Asuka, Homura, cover for me. Shinobi Kekkai!"

"Hey, wait!" Asuka exclaimed, but it was too late as the Leader and the not cat disappeared from the desk.

Homura simply went bewildered at the sight. "...He mastered it?" She then whispered to the brunette in disbelief.

"Y-Yeah. He showed it to me after we beat Shin." Asuka replied. "I, er, probably should've mentioned that earlier..." She awkwardly revealed.

"How did he-" Ann began to ask.

"Internet and time." Asuka answered.

"...Of course..." Homura sighed. "He better finish up before Hiruta-sensei comes back..." She then added before starting the Speed Reader book.

Luckily, Akira would finish just as Hiruta returned with a giddy smile on his face.

"Who would ask for my time and not show up in the first place...?" Hiruta grumbled under his breath. "Alright, let's get the actual lesson going, shall we?" He soon suggested as the class went on for the day.

---

(9/30, Lunchtime)

(Shujin Academy, Rooftop)

After their morning classes ended and they broke for lunch, the second year Thieves decided to spend some time on their own instead of their usual hangout together, checking the pulse of the school and looking for whatever trouble that might be brewing underneath their notice.

"You know, I'm actually pretty glad I'm getting nothing today." Homura breathed out as she then waved to a nearby student, who politely greeted her back with respect.

"It is rather peaceful." Wolverine stated. "Although, why are you heading to the roof?" Her Persona soon questioned.

"I just saw Haru-senpai heading over there." Homura mentally responded. "Thought she might need help with her garden." She then assumed.

"Do you know anything about gardening?" Wolverine suddenly asked from her head.

"Nope, but Haru is there to teach me." Homura replied. "I at least know that plants don't need fire to grow...despite the stupid big ball of fire up there." She then added before grumbling.

"You burned down Yomi's garden back at Hebijo." Wolverine reminded.

"Only once!" Homura insisted, causing her Persona to sweatdrop just as the tan skinned girl arrived at the rooftop. "Good day, Haru-senpai!" She soon greeted.

"Oh, nice to see you Homu-chan." Haru politely greeted, not looking back while she worked on her tomatoes.

The tan skinned girl in response sweatdropped to the nickname. "Homu-chan." She thought.

"Um, do you not like it?" Haru asked, seeing the expression on the tan skinned girl's face.

"No, I do, it's just...different Haru-senpai. Still getting used to it." Homura replied and admitted. "How's the garden going, anyways?" She asked as she crouched down, looking at all the healthy-looking veggies. She didn't really notice before but she could see how well-kept they all were.

"Ah, I'm preparing the plants for the colder seasons." Haru revealed. "Many of the plants I have right now can't handle such temperatures. I'm making sure they'll survive until spring." She then explained.

"Ah, I see." Homura got out in an understanding tone. "Yomi has talked about stuff like that before when growing her beansprouts. Says that the reason why she loves them is because they grow all-year-round." She soon remembered.

The auburnette in response perked up with a smile. "We should exchange gardening tips." Haru happily suggested.

Homura however sweatdropped. "That is not a good idea." She awkwardly advised.

"Eh? Why?" Haru questioned in confusion.

"She absolutely hates anyone rich." Homura answered in a serious tone. "She once beat up someone for having a gold bracelet. It was fake, but she said she didn't regret it." She then revealed with a sigh.

"Erm, maybe I'll hide who I am when talking to her." Haru soon decided to herself with a slightly shaken tone.

"Oh I doubt you'll meet her anytime soon." Homura got out with a shrug. "By the way, you need help with the garden here? Haul up some fertilizer? Harvest some plants?" She soon insisted.

"Well...no, I think I have things covered here for now. You may help me after school though." Haru soon replied before offering.

"Maybe I will after I do my rounds." Homura got out with a nod. "But is there anything else you need help with?" She then asked.

"Well...um...I just need help with my phone." Haru answered with a small blush.

"...What?" Homura got out in confusion after hearing this. "What do you mean Haru-senpai?" She then asked.

"Erm...I don't know how to use it outside of making calls and using the IM." Haru awkwardly explained with a blush.

"Seriously? You don't know how to use your phone?" Homura got out in surprise. She didn't consider herself very tech savvy herself but she could at least look up what she needed to know.

"I'm not very good with technology in general..." Haru sheepishly admitted. "I remember accidentally breaking a radio once quite some time ago..." She soon revealed.

"W-Well, you were just a kid..." Homura muttered out as she rubbed the back of her neck.

"What? Oh no, that happened two months ago. And two hours prior I uh...what was the word...? Oh, bricked. I brickedmy laptop...as well as several servers in the school." Haru then explained.

"Er, um..." Homura didn't know how to respond to that.

"And then there was the time I spent thirty minutes trying to figure out how to use the school vending machine. I ended up crying and nearly came to class late." Haru then continued.

"Ah..." Homura squeaked out in disbelief.

"And how could I forget that I accidentally bought 50 Black Imitation Guns from a shady website and got it sent to a random address last night..." Haru then revealed in a sheepish manner.

"Okay, I get it! Jeez, Haru-senpai..." Homura groaned. "You know what, I'll teach you." She soon offered.

"Really?" Haru gasped in pleasant surprise.

"Yeah. These things aren't that hard to figure out and Futaba isn't gonna help you any time soon." Homura replied with a nod. "So, what do you need help with first?" She then asked.

"Um...how about changing my settings. I think my time is wrong." Haru replied as she showed the tan skinned girl her phone.

Homura in response blinked to what she read. "Haru-senpai...why does the year say 1823?" She soon questioned. She didn't even think phones went back that far...

"That's the year?" Haru innocently questioned.

"Alright. Just tap the gear icon. That's usually the settings app." Homura instructed.

"Oh..." Haru got out with a nod as she looked for the icon on her phone.

"Okay, you're now-" Homura started, however...

FWOOOOOOSH!

The two couldn't help but silently stare at the spontaneous combustion of Haru's phone, wondering if it was some act of god or just her...talent.

Haru then gently put the burning phone down before she and the tan skinned girl slowly backed away from it...and then cut it and ran. "I-I'll buy a new phone!" She declared.

"Good idea Haru-senpai!" Homura replied as they left the roof.

---

(Kanda, Kosei High School)

Yumi let out a breath as she sat at her student council president desk, enjoying the bento she made this morning. A healthy combination of sushi, grilled fish, rice, mixed steam vegetables and a large bottle of melon soda.

"Yusuke has lunch, there are no problems I need to deal with right now, and all my informants have told me that Tokyo is at peace right now,I can finally enjoy lunch without interruption." Yumi breathed out, snapping her chopsticks and performing a quick prayer before picking up the tastiest-looking sushi and-

"Yo, President Yumi!" A familiar voice greeted as the door suddenly opened.

"...Nana-san, what have I told you about without knocking?" Yumi calmly questioned with a sigh as she set down her chopsticks. "Is there another Risa-related incident?" She then assumed.

That girl was like Katsuragi except without the shinobi abilities.

"No. Not this time." Nana confirmed.

"...Is Nemesis-san doing something again?" Yumi then assumed. "Or was it Rito-san this time with an accident happening?" She then added almost exasperatingly.

"Um..." Nana began, hesitating to reveal her reason for arriving now.

"Nana Astar Deviluke, might I remind you that you always came to me in this room for very similar reasons." Yumi reminded her while trying not to sound irritated. "How many incidents have happened since you and your friends transferred in?" She then asked her.

"...47?" Nana awkwardly assumed, grimacing at the rather high number she had given.

"198 separate incidents." Yumi corrected.

Nana jerked up on the inside in a panic.

"They range from gropings, to beatings, and at least 17 known indecent exposures." Yumi continued as the pinkette blushed and averted her eyes. "And I would also like to remind you that since Kosei used to be an all-girls school until 2014, the female student body outweighs the male population by 3 to 1. Not bad as it was previously, but still...it does cause concern when Rito Yuuki is in the vicinity of the women's locker room, to which I can't tell if should be angry or sorry given that he apologizes every time, and yet keeps going there." She then stated and confessed.

"Erm...what are you trying to say?" Nana eventually asked.

"I'm saying that any other school would've all expelled you and blacklisted you from every remotely prestigious school in Japan. You are, in the nicest of terms, problem children." Yumi bluntly revealed. "And the only reason you are still here is because despite all that, the principal sees potential in you all to do great things. You just need a controlled and safe environment to thrive and refine each and every skill you exhibit. For example, you have a secure future in zoology should you pursue it. However, when that environment is in danger itself, it causes many, many headaches for everyone here...including me." She soon revealed and stated.

"S-So why are you telling me all this?" Nana nervously asked.

"Because Tokyo is not Sainan. Our tolerance for such antics is much lower than in your old school. And that is not only among the staff here." Yumi answered in a serious manner. "I don't know what you all got away with before, but it cannot happen any longer, especially when your time in school ends and you must face the real world alone." She soon concluded.

"...I-I understand, Yumi-kaichou." Nana responded with nervousness.

"So, Nana, I will be blunt here, what is Incident Number 199?" Yumi stated and questioned in a dead serious tone.

"Um...incident, yes. Well–" Nana nervously began, before...

"It's about Yuuki Rito, as usual." A new voice answered the gray-haired girl's question.

Nana and Yumi both turned to where the voice came from. Standing from the door was Nemesis wearing the female Kosei uniform with her hands on her hip, posing proudly in the doorway.

"Hm?" Yumi got out as she noticed the young girl. "Nemesis-san, what brings you here?" She soon asked.

"Decided to follow Nana-hime here the moment she left the scene after that lovely ruckus with Yuuki Rito." Nemesis playfully replied. "Just wanted you to know, Yumi Tsukikaze, that the situation is under control." She then informed.

"Are my fellow committee members there at the scene as well?" Yumi assumed.

"Yes." Nemesis confirmed with a nod. "He hurt his knee trying to stop Yuuki Mikan from taking a fall down the stairs. Looked rather serious. Strange, he takes much more punishment than that." She soon revealed.

"What!?" Yumi exclaimed, shooting up from her seat. "Does he need serious medical attention?" She soon questioned.

"No, but he will need to go home early today. Nana-hime here was supposed to tell you, but her tsun-tsun-tsun-tsun-tsundere personality prevented such a thing." Nemesis informed with a smirk.

"Who taught you that term!?" Nana exclaimed in embarrassment.

"Learned it from the other girls." Nemesis simply revealed. "Just making you aware that Lala-hime and Sairenji Haruna will be taking him home and likely won't return to class." She soon added.

"...At least it wasn't too serious." Yumi breathed out in relief as she sat back down. "Nana-san." She then started.

"Y-Yes, Yumi-kaichou!?" Nana squeaked as she stood up straight.

"While I do encourage you all to tone down your antics for the safety and wellbeing of the other students, don't misconstrue my words as being mad at you all. You are all good people at heart, just...looser in your restraints." Yumi stated in a firm manner. "Unfortunately, the real world is not so kind to others who rise above, choosing to be cut down rather than nurture. You won't get an opportunity like this at any other school. Don't waste it." She soon advised. "Remember, this isn't Sainan. Your former perverted principal isn't around anymore to let you off the hook for being...cute." She then reminded once more.

Nana felt a bit shaken inside, but she still understood her fellow committee member's words. "...I understand, kaichou." She then replied with a slight bow after a moment of silence. "I'll tell the others about this." She soon informed.

"Thank you, Nana-san." Yumi replied in approval. "Nemesis-san, have you informed Rito-san's teachers?" She then questioned.

"Mikado-sensei should be taking care of that." The pinkette replied.

"Good. And Nana-san, you or your sister should collect his homework after class. An injury should not interfere with his education." Yumi then suggested.

"Hai." Nana nodded.

"You may go now." Yumi soon ordered. "And next time, please knock on the doors." She then requested.

"Uh, I will. Thank you." Nana replied with a bow. "I'll be leaving then." She then added before heading for the door and leaving the committee room.

However, that left Nemesis and Yumi alone in the committee room right now.

"Do you need something from me, Nemesis-san?" Yumi asked in a polite manner as she picked up her chopsticks. While it was rude to eat during such a situation, lunchtime would be ending soon and she wished to have the energy to learn.

"Hmm...I do have something to ask from you." The younger girl hummed out and eventually requested.

"What is it?" Yumi replied as she went to eat a piece of her grilled fish.

"Can you tell me more about Akira Kurusu?" Nemesis suddenly asked.

Yumi immediately froze on the inside for a couple of seconds. "...Akira Kurusu? I'm sorry, but why do you ask, Nemesis-san?" She questioned as she set her chopsticks down again.

"Met him a few weeks earlier on the plane, and also recently yesterday. A lovely boy." Nemesis replied. "I know you're good friends with him, so...talk. What's he like?" She soon pressed.

"Well, if you've met him, you should already know everything about him." Yumi answered. "He isn't one to hide his true feelings." She then added.

"Is that so? Well he did not hold back his feelings when I spoke with him yesterday." Nemesis had to admit in an impressed manner. "Turns out, he's unusually honest for a young boy his age. And has no ounce of fear in talking about perverted topics and such." She soon informed.

Yumi simply sighed at that. "He doesn't have much of a filter since he has been through a lot." She soon muttered. She was going to have to talk to him about that.

"That is what makes him so interesting to me." Nemesis confessed. "He's fearless, doesn't seem to care what others think, and most of all, there's something about him that draws you closer to his web." She wistfully stated.

Yumi however blinked to that response as she looked at the first year. "...Nemesis-san, do you...have a crush on Akira-san?" She soon assumed.

"He's a person of interest to me along with Yuuki Rito." Nemesis dismissed. "Romance is far from mind." She then added.

"Well, you better have your fill before he leaves." Yumi soon advised. "After this school year, he will be returning to his hometown." She then informed, reaching for her chopsticks again, until...

"Samaru City, correct?" Nemesis casually replied.

"..." Yumi suddenly went silent as she stared at the Kosei tan-skinned girl. "...He never mentioned his hometown before, Nemesis. Not to any of us, anyways." She muttered with a frown.

"Us?" Nemesis got out with a raised eyebrow.

Yumi soon narrowed her eyes. "Nemesis, please leave. Now." She soon ordered in a dead serious tone.

"Kaichou, I think you're overreacting." Nemesis claimed, waving off the expression the student council president was giving her.

"No, I am not." Yumi responded in an icy tone. "You're playing a dangerous game here, so I suggest you quit before you lose." She then got out.

"Lose?" Nemesis repeated, nearly laughing at such a prospect. "For a boy I merely find interesting?" She then questioned.

"No, for all the people he actually cares about and who care about him in return." Yumi countered. "If you try anything, you'll eventually regret it." She then warned.

Nemesis however smirked. "That sounds like a challenge." She soon admitted.

"No, a promise, actually." Yumi however retorted. "Now go. Before you get into actual trouble." She then added.

Nemesis froze for a moment as she stared at the light gray-haired girl. Also...was the committee room always this cold? "...I see. Well, have a good day, Tsukikaze Yumi-kaichou." She eventually complied as she stood up.

"..." Yumi didn't say anything as she watched the girl leave the room. She knew she was trouble before, but given her sudden interest in her Leader, she now had to keep an eye on her. Who knows what that girl will do to satisfy her interests.

...

She might have to warn Akira about it at some point.

When she was now alone in the committee room, Yumi soon let out a breath. Now that she was some measure of peace and quiet, she could finally-

RING RING RING!

...Let out a long-suffering sigh as she put her relatively untouched bento back into her bag and left for her afternoon classes.

Hey, maybe the hunger will make the time go by faster.

---

(Yongen-Jaya, Tokyo Mirage Apartment Complex)

Meanwhile, Reki and Hyōki were hanging around inside the apartment. While Reki had been productive and trained rather intensely all morning (due to her now human body), Hyōki was on the couch staring at her phone, occasionally letting out a giggle.

It was actually pretty quiet until Maki and Yuki came home, with the blonde being in her maid uniform.

"You paid for your own cafe's Phantom Thieves merch?" Maki questioned as she opened the door.

"Well, I couldn't take it for free. It's really expensive." Yuki stated.

"Yes you can. Quite easily, in fact." Maki soon reminded.

"I don't want to steal from work. It's a really good job, I don't want to take advantage of it and risk getting fired as a result." Yuki then got put.

Maki in turn nodded to that. "Hey, it's your money. I can't make you choose what to do with it, even if the prices are more than likely marked up to hell." She replied as she then noticed the others. "Hello everyone." She then greeted.

"Hey." Reki greeted back with a raised hand. "You're both back early." She then noted.

"Yeah, my shift ended early today." Yuki revealed with a grin. "You should really come over and meet Morgan-senpai. She's so nice and stuff." She soon suggested.

"And just like how I won't tell you how to spend money, you can't tell me how I spend mine." Maki responded as she shook her head. "Also, I can't stand maid cafes with their fake smiles and fetish crap." She then grumbled.

"Hehehehehe~" Hyōki suddenly giggled out, catching everyone's attention.

"Hyōki?" Maki called out.

However, the ravenette said nothing, not even taking a second to look away from her screen. "...Pfft...!" She suddenly snickered.

"...Does she even notice that we're even here?" Yuki soon asked.

"I do, I'm just busy." Hyōki claimed, waving them off while still focusing more on her phone than her friends.

"Hyōki, have you been on your phone all day?" Maki soon asked.

"I'm 14 and not in school, I don't exactly have much to do these days other than train and prepare." Hyōki reminded.

"You could probably pass off as 16." Yuki soon pointed out. "You know, barring your height." She then added.

"Well excuse me if I'm short!" Hyōki responded, clearly offended with a pout. "I still haven't reached my full potential." She then declared in a grumble.

"Well, you certainly have in one area." Maki muttered as she looked down at the Leader's breasts. "14 year olds don't rock melons like that..." She then added.

"Shut up!" Hyōki growled.

As the rest of the girls began to laugh, the door opened as Miki walked in.

"Miki, you're back early! How was your-" Yuki greeted, however...

"Uuuuuugh!" Miki groaned in frustration as she slumped on the couch.

"You've been at it since last night." Maki recalled.

"Your human moanings are starting to hurt my ears." Reki complained. "...Even though they sound sexy at times." She then added all of a sudden.

"...Really, Reki?" Maki deadpanned

"Sorry, just teasing." The silverette apologized and confessed. "But seriously, they hurt a little now." She then added.

"Well, can you turn it down a little, Miki?" Yuki soon requested.

"I can't help it! Ranze is being such a brat!" Miki declared, sparks of electricity coming off her horns.

"Still that bad huh?" Yuki assumed.

"It's like taking care of a kid at kindergarten!" Miki whined in more frustration. "Thank God I'm not a teacher because I wanted to strangle that little shit the entire time." She soon stated in a spiteful tone while mimicking said strangling.

"You just need to keep working on it. She'll eventually become a respectable model and person soon enough." Reki responded.

"Or...I get my brainwashing tech up and running and just brainwash her into being a respectable model and person right now." Miki suggested in a dark and menacing tone. "I mean...would people mind?" She then questioned.

"Yes." Yuki and Maki automatically answered.

"It would be a risky maneuver." Reki confessed. "And isn't being able to endure something you hate a human action? A badge of honor to show your determination, grit, and some other human platitudes?" She soon recalled.

"We're shinobi! If we don't cheat a little, we die." Miki insisted.

"Forced into being shinobis." Maki reminded.

"Is there a difference here?" Miki questioned with a sigh. "Look, I don't wanna deal with her for any longer than I should and that limit was reached three weeks ago. I mean, if the Phantom Thieves can make dickbags into honest people and be praised for it, why can't we?" She then confessed and pointed out.

"...You make a good point..." Maki soon admitted.

"No!" Yuki called out. "Just...please be patient with her. She'll come around eventually." She soon instructed.

"Like next year, next decade, next universe...?" Miki began suggesting in a sarcastic manner.

"People can change by themselves. They just need a little help." Yuki soon stated before looking over at the ravenette. "For example..." She began.

"Hehe, Ryuji-kun's texting me about how boring school is." Hyōki meanwhile giggled out in amusement.

"Case and point." The blonde got out before realizing something. "Wait, shouldn't classes be going on at their place right now?" Yuki pointed out.

"Why do you think he's texting?" Maki deadpanned.

"Either he's eager to get caught by the teacher or he doesn't care." Yuki assumed with a shrug.

"...I was being rhetorical." Maki then deadpanned again.

"Oh. Never mind what I said, then." Yuki got out in understanding.

"Oho~ You seem happier with even texting him now." Miki noted in amusement. "You know, we'll look back on days like these and smile, seeing such a great budding romance come into fruition before our very eyes." She then sighed out with a hand on her cheek.

"And if you keep stalking me with your very eyes, I will take them out and replace them with golf balls." Hyōki casually threatened, barely looking up from her phone as she continued texting, soon giggling some more. "Ryuji-kun, you shouldn't fall asleep in class." She then playfully chided as she began typing what she just said.

"...You're scary when you're in love." Maki couldn't help but comment. "Different from what we usually are when we kill our targets." She then added.

"Hai." Yuki agreed.

"Oh! He wants to hang out later at the arcade when he gets out!" Hyōki excitedly revealed with a starry look in her eyes as she stood up. "I gotta go get ready!" She then decided, skipping towards the bathroom to wash up and humming a tune all the while.

"...Is he even trying at this point?" Maki eventually asked as they heard the shower being turned on.

"I don't even think he knows what he's even doing." Miki admitted. "A natural Hyōki-chan magnet. What a concept." She then added with a smile.

"Hyōki needs support like this." Reki had to admit. "...I will talk to everyone about me becoming fully human tomorrow." She then mentally decided.

"Well, I'm glad Hyōki-chii is so happy these days." Yuki breathed out. "Remember what she was like before she met him?" She then asked.

"A leader that was vengeful, reckless, willing to use those experimental Yōma pills, in a perpetual state of sadness and anger, but also weirdly wants to both murder her sister and love her to death?" Maki recalled.

"Like being a yandere?" Yuki simplified that last one.

"Basically." Maki responded with a nod. "You know, without the incest." She then added.

"And now she is more fun to tease." Miki got out.

"And more likely to kill you." Reki added. "Love sickness is a real disease to shinobis..." She muttered as she placed a hand over her chest.

"Ahhh, I can only imagine what will happen if they get married." Miki soon got out with a sigh and a hand on her cheek.

"If? You mean when." Maki corrected. "And I fear for any other woman who gets his interest as well..." She then muttered.

"...You think Ryuji would be a player?" Miki soon asked in a more curious manner.

"From what we've seen? No..." Maki replied. "...I don't even think he knows he's dating Hyōki." She then added.

"Seriously?" Yuki asked.

"That would make it more interesting, don't you think?" Miki then asked in amusement.

"Dear God, no." Maki groaned out. "If she gets into any sort of drama, people will die. With no exaggeration." She then added in a dead serious tone.

"Well, let's hope whatever bitch decides it would be a good idea to steal him, she should know how to throw a good punch." Miki soon stated. "...So, what are we doing for the rest of the day?" She soon wondered out loud.

"Not spying on Hyōki again." Reki deadpanned. "If we don't wanna piss her off again." She then added.

"YOU BETTER NOT!" Hyōki yelled from the bathroom, causing the others to flinch in surprise.

"Case and point." Reki deadpanned towards the pouting pinkette. "Let us do something more productive with our time, Miki." She then decided.

"Fine, fine..." Miki sighed out. "...Wanna go to Yuki's maid cafe?" She soon asked.

"..." Yuki stared at the long-haired pinkette, stunned. "...What?" She got out.

"I'm hungry and I want to go out." Miki admitted. "Come on, it'll be a nice outing for us single ladies. Is that a good idea?" She then explained.

"Yes!" Yuki cheered.

"I shall agree." Reki nodded.

"No." Maki bluntly deadpanned.

"Outvoted. To the maid cafe!" Miki loudly decided and declared as she got up from the couch and began heading out the door.

With a sigh, Maki followed her along with the rest of Senki Shu, leaving their leader alone in their shared apartment to get ready.

Who at that point finished washing up and exited the bathroom, though blushing since she heard what her friends were talking about regarding herself and the dyed blond. "...Have I changed that much?" Hyōki wondered out loud in a curious manner.

Sure, she still hated her father and sister, but she also felt something else budding within her...and it both scared and excited her.

Scared with the concern that she was straying from her original plan...

But also excited that something new was happening to her that felt way better than all those years she endured.

"...Did I one up Onee-chan by finding someone special?" Hyōki soon asked herself with a snarky smirk. She could imagine her precious older being jealous that she, the younger sibling, possibly found someone before her, the older sibling.

She could only hope that it was a permanent change...or else she would break.

---

(Kichijoji, Shopping District)

The bustling sounds of Kichijoji were continuous like usual. However, for three certain individuals, there were still important things at hand that needed to be resolved and search for the answers they needed.

Fubuki was wearing a hooded cloak while her fellow companions, half-sisters Senkō and Gekkō, were wearing their usual shinobi attires as they walked as civilized as possible in the middle of the crowded street, hoping their said attires won't get too much attention from the public eyes.

"...And I told him that it's not worth worrying about. You can come back to work, your daughter will be fine. After all, she ain't rolling anywhere anytime soon."

"I really wanted to help her, but my dog needed me more. So yeah, she got evicted last week."

"I don't really care about that stuff about the CEO, I just really like burgers."

The half-sisters narrowed their eyes at the words of the public. "Sometimes I wish we could spread the teachings of Kurokage-sama to the people around here..." Gekkō had to say aloud to herself, gazing at the people as they walked through them. "Showing them the justice that needs to be done." She then added.

"...Now that you mention it, it is an interesting thought." Senkō confessed. "Maybe one day, Gekkō." She then reassured.

"Anyways, how are we going to find Yumi-san at this rate?" She then asked aloud, gazing at the usual walking of the civilians in the crowds.

"The Gessen higher-ups did not allow us to disclose some information about her mission, stating that it is classified to an extent." Senkō responded. "All we know is that it involves the mental shutdowns around Tokyo." She then stated.

"I'm...worried we might get shut down all of a sudden, Senkō-chan." Gekkō hesitantly confessed.

"Girls, let us stay focused on our objective for now." Fubuki responded. "Yumi is secondary to our investigation." She added.

"Apologies for my words, but what are we even going to find here, anyways?" Gekkō had to ask with a frown. "Do you detect the smell of Yōma here, Fubuki-sama?" She then asked.

Fubuki took a long, gentle whiff of the air they were in right now. "There are faint scents of the ones we usually fought and killed." She then replied. "No battle has taken place here but someone, or someones, have spent significant time here." She soon stated.

"It is a rather popular shopping district." Senkō noted. "It wouldn't be out of the realm of possibility that they spend time here." She then added.

"But for it to linger so long?" Gekkō meanwhile asked in a curious manner. "That would be something else, I have to admit."

"Clearly something major and Yōma-related happened here in this area." Fubuki stated with a pondering look. "... And no doubt there would be other areas with a similar feeling." She then added.

"Tokyo really is a hotspot for shinobi activity now." Senkō couldn't help but say. "Which means that we have to be very wary of our surroundings from now on." She then added.

Fubuki suddenly stopped and leaned down to sniff the couch in front of the furniture store. "...This seat seems to have the strongest smell of all..." She soon informed.

"F-Fubuki-sama..." Senkō got out in concern, noticing other people staring.

"Someone sat here with the essence of Yōma on them." Fubuki assumed as she straightened up.

"Did you really have to sniff that?" Gekkō soon questioned. "I mean, it could just be...flatulence?" She soon guessed.

"..." Fubuki simply went still in silence as she pondered that. "Moving on." She succinctly declared before briskly away from the scene.

"She dodged the question..." Senkō and Gekkō thought with a sweatdrop as they followed her ahead, hoping to walk away from the sudden stares.

"Anyway, that was not from human remains, I'm sure of it." Fubuki determined. "We are getting closer. I am sure of it." She then stated.

"Whatever you say, Fubuki-sama." Gekkō responded.

Fubuki narrowed her eyes, noticing the somewhat hesitant tone of voice she used. "...Is there a problem?" She soon got out in a cold manner.

The half-sisters flinched. "Um...we're worried about your well-being, Fubuki-sama." Senkō confessed. "If you don't mind us asking, how are you feeling right now?" She soon asked.

"I'm...I'm fine, you two. No need to worry about me for now." Fubuki responded in reassurance.

"Any news about Rasetsu-san?" Gekkō eventually asked.

Fubuki made a pondering expression as her eyes looked somehow listless. "Still nothing. Though I promise myself, I will find her. To see if she is alive and safe." She informed and stated.

"One day you will, Fubuki-sama." Gekkō replied in reassurance.

"...You make it sound like it won't happen for a long time." Fubuki assumed, not looking at her.

"I-I was just referring to your confidence, Fubuki-sama." Gekkō soon explained in a slight panic. "Sorry, I should be careful with how I worded my responses to you." She then confessed.

"Just make sure you do not repeat your mistake." Fubuki ordered.

"Yes, Fubuki-sama." The sisters soon responded in unison with a respectful bow.

"Hello, excuse me." A young voice caught their attention.

"Hm?" Fubuki got out as she glanced at where the voice came from, prompting the two half-sisters to glance as well. It was a young man with brown hair while wearing a white shirt, tie, and black pants. Looked almost like a school uniform, but it lacked any logos to the school he goes to.

"Have you seen a female colleague of mine? She has hair color similar to your friends there with you, and she has a black formal suit on." The young man then asked.

"I don't pay attention to the public." Fubuki bluntly responded, looking to end this conversation as soon as she could.

"Oh. Sorry for bothering you." Akechi responded and apologized. "If you don't mind, I'll ask your friends then." He soon decided.

Fubuki narrowed her eyes at the young man for a bit as he approached her fellow silver-haired companions.

"Oh, um...sorry, sir. We haven't seen the woman you're looking for." Gekkō replied as she was asked the same question as well.

"Same goes for me." Senkō replied as well, though she had a slightly disinterested look on her face.

"Hm...she must be late then." Akechi assumed as he checked his watch. "Not a common occurrence, but given recent events, I cannot blame her." He then added.

"Okay..." Senkō got out before going silent for a moment. "We'll be taking our leave now if you may." She eventually stated as she slowly shifted herself to leave along with sister.

However, Akechi couldn't help but notice the one with the large cloak and hood...and he also just noticed the face of the one with the cloak having bandages wrapped around most parts of her face.

"I can see your gaze towards Fubuki-sama, young mister." Senkō suddenly reminded him aloud. "Watch it." She then scolded him.

"Sorry. It's just...to be honest, your friend here is wearing conspicuous attire, walking around in public with a large hooded cloak like that. People might take it the wrong way." Akechi revealed and advised. "And I assume you have an injury with you judging from the bandages across your face." He soon assumed.

"I do not wish to hear your opinion about my current attire, young man." Fubuki however got out. "It is perfectly suitable for me. You should not judge one's appearance without getting to know them." She then scolded.

"I had no intention of offending you, miss." Akechi quickly got out in an apologetic manner. "I do see the occasional cosplayer wandering the streets, but I don't recognize who you are supposed to be, exactly." He then continued.

"I am no one." Fubuki vaguely responded as she turned away. "And it should be kept that way." She then stated.

Akechi narrowed his eyes at that. "You may take back that statement soon enough." He thought. He was a detective, after all.

"There you are, Akechi-san." A mature female voice called out in their hearing range.

"Hm?" Akechi got out as he turned to where the voice came from. It was Sae Niijima in her work uniform, approaching him with a bag over her shoulder. "Ah! Sae-san, you're finally here. You were a bit late today. I was trying to find you here but you were never around." He soon greeted with a relieved smile.

"Apologies. The SIU director had to discuss something important with me the moment I was about to leave." Sae vaguely explained.

"It's about the Phantom Thieves again, I assume?" Akechi guessed, causing the prosecutor to scowl.

Senkō, Gekkō, and Fubuki got their attention caught a bit as they heard that.

"Clearly. Not a single day goes by without a mention of them in the precinct." Sae sighed as she shook her head. "Who are these people with you?" She soon asked, looking towards the...What the hell, why are these girls more stacked than those AV actresses with fake tits (or...about Makoto's current cup size in a way, but...bigger)?

"Oh, just some people I tried to ask about finding you here." The detective informed, snapping out of the silver-haired prosecutor's sudden delusion. "Sorry for bothering you all." Akechi soon apologized.

"Oh, it's alright." Gekkō assured him. "You didn't bother anything." She then added.

"We might be bothering you for staying so long so we better-" Senkō soon admitted, however...

"Excuse me for a moment." Fubuki suddenly spoke up, stepping forward for a bit.

"Eh?" Gekkō looked confused at their mistress's sudden interest.

"Fubuki-sama?" Senkō got out, gazing at her master somewhat curiously.

"You mentioned the Phantom Thieves, young man." Fubuki began, catching the detective and his female colleague's attention. "What about them? What do you think of them and their...ways of executing justice?" She then asked ahead.

"Oh, here we go..." Sae groaned.

"Justice?" Akechi repeated. "Well, if you ask for my personal opinion, then to me, even though they do what they think is justice, taking down criminals with their change of heart methods, their sense of justice, however, is completely selfish." He argued.

Fubuki blinked as Senkō and Gekkō shifted expressions in unison.

"Would you elaborate that for us, if you do not mind?" Fubuki insisted.

Akechi let out a breath. "In my opinion, taking judgment in their own hands does not mean true justice is done." He began in a serious manner. "While I do agree their targets are deplorable, they were forced to confess rather than do so out of their own free will. For a group that encourages freedom, it is rather hypocritical they enforce their own ideals onto others. They shouldn't have the power to determine who is guilty or not alone. We have laws and rules for a reason, written in the blood of those who wished to subvert them. If we don't stop them, then we will be simply repeating mistakes of the past. The road to hell is paved with good intentions after all." He then stated, barely slowing down to breathe.

"..." All four of the women silently stared at the boy as he slowly recovered his breath after his passionate rant.

"Ah! I'm so sorry. It's just with the recent trend of rebellion and distrust of the law, I've been quite passionate in its defense. Flawed as it may be, it is better than anarchy." Akechi soon apologized, looking sheepish after his little rant.

"...You wish to make this world a better place, do you not?" Fubuki assumed.

"Yes." Akechi replied with a nod. "A world full of injustice is something I cannot stand for. It's why I became a detective after all. One day, this world will change for the better, but as of right now I can only ensure it does not get worse." He then concluded.

"..." Fubuki subtly pursed her lips. It was...remarkably close to her own feelings about her goals.

"Akechi-san, are we going to eat somewhere as we both planned?" Sae however reminded.

"Oh um, just go ahead, Sae-san. Save a seat for me as well." Akechi suggested to his colleague. "You know where it is." He then added with confidence.

"The jazz club." Sae muttered as she shook her head. "I still don't know why you insist on this Omni Fizz..." She then mumbled under her breath.

"Well, it's bad to drink in the middle of the day. Now go, we only have so much time before we need to get back to work." Akechi responded before getting the woman to leave. "Anyway, sorry. Do you have anything to ask me once more?" She then asked as she turned to the hooded woman.

"Hmm..." Fubuki hummed aloud in thought, thinking of another thing to ask. "Senkō, Gekkō, if you also have questions of your own regarding the matter, feel free to ask him."

"Oh, uh, hai, Fubuki-sama." Gekkō replied, snapping her thoughts from the sudden call, with Senkō sharpening her thoughts.

"You two must be close to her, judging by how you addressed her." Akechi remarked.

"We simply follow in her dream." Senkō informed.

"And what dream that may be?" Akechi had to ask.

"Nothing of your concern." Fubuki spoke. "Anyways, like I said...Senkō and Gekkō, any questions you wish to ask?" She soon questioned.

"Um, yes...well, I must ask, do you have any idea what the Phantom Thieves are supposed to be in terms of appearances or something along those lines? Or what are their methods of forcing someone to confess their crimes?" Senkō began asking.

"For your question about their methods, we've had multiple theories, but none of them hold water." Akechi answered. "As for appearances...I can't discuss that. I don't want to put into your heads a picture we haven't quite completed yet. All I can say is that they're likely teenagers." He soon informed.

"Teenagers?" Gekkō repeated with curiosity, as well as her companions. "How did you come up with that conclusion, if I may ask?" She then added

"They started in a high school setting." Akechi began answering. "Against a teacher. It's not very hard to put that together. You don't have to be an ace detective, although that is just an assumption. Maybe it was simply their first public appearance." He then further explained.

"I see." Fubuki stated with a nod. "I am curious about their methods, though." She soon admitted.

"As am I." Gekkō agreed as well. "The Phan-site can only reveal so much..." She then sighed

"We are keeping track of it, and there are some claims we are investigating, but nothing about the Phantom Thieves themselves." Akechi soon revealed.

"Hmm...if I may also ask as well, who are their usual targets? Like is there a pattern they're following in terms of choosing their targets." Gekkō then asked, earning a curious reaction from Senkō and Fubuki, though they didn't try to show it.

"No. As far as we know, they're completely random." Akechi informed. "Only five of them are ones of note, including the recent target, the Okumura Foods CEO." He then added with a slight frown.

"Yes, the fast food company." Senkō stated in agreement. "Although, why go after him when they know it's what their enemies want?" She soon questioned with a frown.

"There are also the mental shutdown cases prior to the Phantom Thieves debut...something tells us there's some conspiracy going on." Gekkō deducted.

Akechi...did his best to maintain a composed look, for some reason. "Yes, I am well aware of their declaration of war against this conspiracy. However, it is possible that it could be a false claim." He soon pointed out.

"How so?" Fubuki asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, we can only take their word of their existence, and that isn't enough evidence for me." Akechi replied as he shook his head. "This could simply be a publicity stunt. Think about it. After being targeted by a known international criminal hacking group, a secret conspiracy who aims to frame them would only increase their infamy." He soon claimed.

"And if it's true?" Senkō pressed.

"...Well, I'm not sure." Akechi admitted as he put on a thoughtful expression. "Public distrust of authority is at an all-time high. If they were able to do that...the consequences could be dire to this country. We can't have vigilantes upset the balance of power here. Who knows, even my career would be at risk if you think about it." He then informed.

"Shouldn't you put more work into improving the police force rather than stopping the Phantom Thieves?" Gekkō pointed out.

"I thought about that, but I'm just a detective, not someone with the highest authority in the precinct." Akechi sighed out. "If you wish to raise your concerns about that, you'll need to talk to the higher-ups, and I doubt they'll give you the time of day I'm afraid." He then added.

"Speaking from experience?" Senkō asked in curiosity.

"There isn't much you can do to influence others when you're not even old enough to drink." Akechi grumbled a little under his breath. "The old rarely pay attention to those who will take their place." He then stated in a bitter manner.

"..." The three looked at the detective with slight concern. Especially when he instantly shifted his mood when he took out his phone.

"Well, if that's everything, I must take my leave before Niijima-san gets too annoyed for my delay." Akechi soon got out while checking the time. "Have a lovely day, you three." He then added in a polite manner.

"Bye." Fubuki simply responded back, watching the detective walk away from them. "He's socially aware and knowledgeable for his age, I'll give him that." She soon admitted.

"Yes...but to think these Phantom Thieves just defeated an international criminal hacking group...no doubt their range of action is extremely wide." Gekkō got out in worry.

"Which means that no one is safe from the Phantom Thieves watch." Senkō concluded to herself with a serious look on her face.

"...Looks like they will become one of our top priorities from now on once our investigation is over." Fubuki muttered with a frown.

"I agree, Fubuki-sama." Gekkō replied with a nod. "They're too dangerous. To let them continue their so-called methods of confessing one's crimes could spell disaster. We could be their potential target if they catch wind of our actions." She then insisted.

"But how will we catch them? No one even knows what they look like." Senkō questioned.

"That we will have to figure out ourselves." Fubuki stated in a serious manner. "But remember that Tokyo is now a hotspot for shinobi activity. We might get the attention of other shinobis present here if we're not careful." She reminded and warned.

"But it also gives us the opportunity to deal major blows to their numbers." Senkō pointed out.

"Possibly. We may need to recruit others to our cause if we wish to destroy them all in a timely manner and figure out who the Phantom Thieves really are." Gekkō advised.

"That detective mentioned the possibility of the Phantom Thieves being teenagers." Senkō soon reminded. "Not sure if it's possible, but clearly they have a knack for deception and secrecy...like us shinobi. Starting to lean towards an actual rogue shinobi group." She soon confessed.

"It's likely." Fubuki agreed before letting out a sigh. "We can theorize and guess all we want, but without anything to back it up, we can't act unless we want to put ourselves in jeopardy. Besides, I want to remind you both that they are not our current priority. Our mission here is to find out what happened to all the Yōma. We've wasted enough time here talking to that detective about something that has nothing to do with our goals, so I suggest we get a move on before we waste any more." She soon stated and explained followed by reminding her comrades.

"But shouldn't we worry about them?" Gekkō however asked. "They could stop us." She then added.

"It doesn't matter." Fubuki sternly stated. "Every second that passes, the truth fades a little more." She then added as well with narrowed eyes.

"You're right." Senkō agreed with a nod. "Yōma first, then the Phantom Thieves later. Where's our next destination, Fubuki-sama?" She then added and soon asked.

"Hmm..." Fubuki hummed while pondering where to go next. "How about Shinjuku?" She then suddenly suggested as the group wandered off towards their next destination of their investigation.

---

(9/30, Afternoon)

(Harajuku, Haruka's Apartment)

Tsumuji didn't know how long it had been since her master escaped to work on the antidote, but she was sure for every minute she lost an hour of her life...so it was safe to say that she was actively dying by the second. However, her determination, loyalty, and her raging desire for friendship had pulled her through...until this moment.

CRASH! THUD!

"Awooo~!" Ryōbi howled out. "Tsumuji-chan, why aren't you playing with me more!?" She soon whined.

"Ryōbi...just...let me rest..." The maid panted out from the floor. "I...I don't think I can take much more of this! Haruka-sama, hurry!" She mentally exclaimed.

"Please stop triggering my seishuin complex..." Imu moaned in despair from a blanket cocoon. "It reminds me of high school and my wasted youth..." She then muttered.

"How is asking for rest making you miserable!?" Tsumuji questioned with a groan.

"I got attacked by crows who wanted my ice cream." Imu mumbled with an empty look in her eyes. "I begged them to let me rest but they just went and pecked me harder. And then Hikage ate my ice cream." She then added before falling over onto her side in her cocoon as she then rolled over to one of the corners of the room.

"...I'm suddenly glad I don't go to high school." Tsumuji soon admitted as the aggressive brunette hugged her leg...while more blonde was noticeable in her hair now.

Suddenly, the doctor in training kicked down the door of her lab and came out only wearing a lab coat and gloves.

"It's all ready!" Haruka called out as she held up two vials filled with red liquid in them.

"Thank you!" Tsumuji got out in relief, kicking the masochistic girl off her leg.

Ryōbi nearly wet herself from the pain alone. "Ohhhh~ Do that more, mistress maid la- ULP!" She moaned, only for Haruka to shove a vial into her mouth.

"Don't drag me outside- ACK!" Imu began to mumble, only for Haruka to do the same to her.

GULP! GULP!

At that moment, the two affected girls fell unconscious, though their changed looks remained.

"There! That should turn them back to normal." Haruka breathed out as she wiped the sweat off her forehead. "Glad everything worked out before it got too crazy, right Tsumuji-chan?" She added in relief.

In contrast to the clean and relieved Haruka, Tsumuji looked both filthy and traumatized. Her maid uniform was a wreck with many grease stains, she was covered in bruises and kisses, and she was pretty sure there was something written on her bare ass.

"...I need a raise." Tsumuji could only say.

"I...I don't pay you." Haruka awkwardly reminded. "...But I really should." She then confessed.

"Pay me now then." Tsumuji immediately requested. "In cash." She quickly added.

"Here." Haruka responded as she handed the girl a wad of bills. Not like she spends a lot of the money she makes anyways since Hebijo is still providing the funding for the apartment itself.

Blinking at the stack in her hands, TsumujI went for broke. "...Also I want-"

"Don't push your luck." Haruka deadpanned.

"Had to try. So Haruka-sama, do we have any idea what happened?" Tsumuji got out with a shrug before asking.

"Well...in Imu's case, it appeared as though she was acting like Murasaki-chan before I encouraged her to start exercising. As for Ryōbi, she became...aggressively masochistic. Like...a dominant sub?" Haruka began, though unsure about the second deduction. "It could be connected to how they view their siblings." She then assumed.

"And the changes to their bodies?" Tsumuji asked, referring to the ends of both girls' changed hairs and their larger busts.

"Oh, I snuck in a hair changer and breast enhancement for shits and giggles." Haruka confessed in awkward amusement, only to be silenced by the maid's deadpan expression. "I used a weaker concentration so they should wear off by tomorrow." She then revealed.

"...I'm not even going to ask." Tsumuji sighed as she laid down.

"But you already did." Haruka pointed out.

It was at that moment that the two unconscious girls began to stir. "...Why does everything hurt?" Ryōbi, whose voice was sounding normal, asked with a groan.

"Urgh...I need a salad..." Imu groaned, her stomach crying from all the crap she ate today. "...Why are my boobs bigger and my hair longer?" She then suddenly asked, noticing the changes.

"Delayed potion effect." Haruka sighed out, getting the attention of the two. "Turns out the potion I injected you with made you two become more like your siblings." She bluntly revealed.

"...The fuck?" Ryōbi bluntly got out as she glanced down, noticing her new bust. "These are like Ryōna's!" She soon exclaimed...with a hint of happiness.

"WOOF! WOOF!"

...She also wasn't going to tell anyone that she was also hearing barking in her head...despite it sounding sooooooo tempting to do~

"My back hurts..." Imu groaned. "And why am I craving cup ramen along with wanting to play video games in a dark corner?" She soon asked with a worried yet depressed sounding tone before snapping out of it.

"It's only for the day, so don't worry. You'll hopefully be back to your usual selves tomorrow." Haruka assured while patting the soon-to-be flat girl on her shoulder.

"To-Tomorrow...?" Ryōbi repeated, looking a little...saddened by the news.

"Sorry, but a permanent solution does not exist at the moment." Haruka soon informed. "That is, unless you think boobs the size of an RV are acceptable to live with for the rest of your life." She then added.

"And the back pain." Tsumuji added.

"What are- AHN~! My back!" Ryōbi moaned in pain as she felt her spine beg for...not mercy. Shit.

"...Did you just-" Tsumuji began to point out, however...

"Can we put on some fucking clothes now!? This apartment is cold as shit!" Ryōbi eventually questioned and started rambling. "Despite it feeling sooooo good~ Woof!" She suddenly squealed and barked with a cat-like smile before paling. "NO! I am not fucking getting her multiple personality shit too!" She cried out in embarrassment while curling up into a ball, placing her head in between her current bust.

"I think...I'll stick to wrapping myself up in a blanket..." Imu meanwhile quietly stated. "...It feels nicer..." She then explained as she then wrapped herself in a blanket cocoon.

The doctor in training and the maid meanwhile sweatdropped to those responses.

"A very potent potion..." Haruka noted. "Finally, we can talk like ad-" She then started, however...

"I still want to kill Miyabi." Ryōbi growled as she glared at the glasses-wearing girl.

"And I won't let you!" Imu snapped back, crackles of electricity filling the air.

"Enough!" Haruka called out as she pushed the two away from each other. "I will not allow you two to resort to violence here! We were supposed to talk about this like adults, but you two decided to act like children, forcing my hand." She then growled.

"Isn't it your fault that this took several hours to resolve?" Imu bluntly pointed out.

"It is no one's fault right now!" Haruka snapped, neatly avoiding responsibility. "The only fault here is the anger in your hearts, your lust for violence and boners for murders, which I will not allow unless you want me to permanently lose feeling to your legs, so I suggest everyone here plays nice or something here will not be walking out of here." She then declared before summoning her puppet.

"...Truce?" The glasses-wearing girl offered.

"...Fuck it. Truce." Ryōbi sighed in annoyance. "For now." She soon grumbled.

"Good enough." Haruka replied. "Tsumuji-chan?" She soon started, looking at the maid.

"I'll prepare some warm milk." Tsumuji soon revealed.

"That will do." Haruka decided with a nod of approval as the maid went off to prepare the drinks. "Now, shall we discuss the...shall we say, the elephant in the room?" She soon asked.

"...Why do you want to kill Miyabi?" Imu questioned the brunette, who was averting her gaze.

"..." Ryōbi remained silent, looking out the window rather than facing her enemy.

"I won't hurt you." Imu assured.

At that moment, the brunette's head turned directly towards the best friend of her target. "My older sister, Ryōki." Ryōbi growled out with fury in her eyes.

"!?" Imu's eyes immediately widened as her face paled. "Fuuuuuuuuuu-" She mentally swore.

"Hm? Imu?" Tsumuji got out.

"What?" Imu responded in annoyance.

"You look like a ghost." The maid pointed out while returning with the drinks and placed them on the table, not noticing her mistress wincing as she realized what she had done.

Ryōbi blinked before quickly glaring at the girl with murderous rage. "...You know something, you PIECE OF SHIT!" The petite brunette screamed as she tried to strangle the glasses wearing blonde, only for the maid of the apartment to hold her back (and get an elbow to the face in the process).

"NO FIGHTING!" Haruka ordered, silencing the brunette as she then looked at the other blonde. "But Imu? You better tell us what you know." She soon stated and ordered.

"Well, first I have to know what you know." Imu began. "What did you hear about that mission?" She soon asked.

"Everyone died because some psycho bitch went crazy and killed everyone. Including my sister." Ryōbi answered. "However, since you aren't dead yet, I'm guessing there are a few details that got lost." She soon added as she scowled.

"I'm surprised there were any details that made it out of that mess." Imu muttered as she palmed her face, it now having a traumatized expression on it. "God...it was..." She then began before trailing off.

"Breathe. Calm down." Tsumuji advised upon seeing the girl beginning to shiver and shake. "You can tell it at your own pace." She soon stated in a comforting manner.

"But you better fucking tell it, jackass." The first year brunette growled out with held back fury.

The glasses-wearing girl hesitated before taking a deep breath. "Blood Riot..." Imu whispered.

"Eh?" Haruka got out in confusion with a raised eyebrow.

"It's a...very, very dangerous technique." Imu explained with a wince. "It absorbs the blood of shinobi within a Kekkai and turns into strength at the cost of their mind and soul. However...it also tends to drive the user berserk and turn them into an unstoppable killing machine." She soon revealed.

"But...she eventually stopped, right?" Tsumuji pointed out...before beginning to worry that the white haired woman was just in a constant state of Blood Riot all of the time.

"Because I extracted the blood used to fuel the technique with Blood Reverse." Imu answered. "But it was too late by then. Everyone else was dead. Miyabi killed everything but me." She soon revealed.

The Crimson Squad member's eyes widened while the brunette's expression darkened. "What the hell..." The doctor-in-training whispered in disbelief.

"After that, we were hospitalized. I recovered relatively quickly, but...you know what happened to Miyabi besides her getting white hair." Imu responded and vaguely added. Imu then concluded, letting out a breath as she returned those memories back into her mental vault, hoping to never dig them back out again.

"She was in a coma until only a couple of months ago, correct." Haruka recalled.

"Yes." Imu confirmed with a nod. Imu confirmed with a nod. "The medicine recipes you managed to give us, we were able to revive her, although it wasn't perfect..." She then added. She then added with a small smile.

"Those were placebos..." Haruka mentally recalled with a frown. "Not perfect...how?" She slowly asked.

"...She was missing more than a few memories." The glasses-wearing girl answered. "The only thing Miyabi remembered was killing someone personally...Ryōki of Gessen Academy." She then revealed in a serious tone.

Ryōbi gritted her teeth together, tears welling up in her eyes. "...Why?"

"Ryōbi?" Tsumuji got out in a cautious manner.

"Why did you two get to live while she fucking dies!?" Ryōbi yelled out in the most bitter and loud voice she had ever unleashed."She did nothing wrong in her entire life! She raised us when our parents died! She kept us warm, fed, and safe until she had to go off and become a shinobi! She even made this giant ass BBQ lunch for us, and all I could say to her was that I wished she died!" She then screamed.

"R-Ryōbi-chan..." Haruka breathed out.

"She didn't deserve to die! She didn't deserve to have me as a sister! She didn't deserve to go and throw her life away for our happiness!" Ryōbi continued, sobbing and growling like an animal that just lost its mother. "Why, out of every fucking shinobi in the whole damn world, it had to be Ryōki-oneechan!?" She then asked, soon wailing and bawling her eyes out.

Haruka instantly tried to reach out to the crying girl, only for Tsumuji to stop her and shake her head. She needed to let all her tears out before she was ready to talk.

Eventually, Ryōbi stopped crying, but she did sniffle and sob on occasion as the others waited in silence.

"...Is that everything?" Imu had to ask.

"No!" Ryōbi growled. "But...it was most of it..." She then sniffled.

"...You've been holding that in for a long time." Haruka soon noted in a sympathetic tone.

"Since the day we found out she died." Ryōbi mumbled. "Don't you dare let Ryōna know." She then demanded.

"...I think you should let Ryōna know." Imu however stated in a serious tone.

"What?" Ryōbi got out, glaring at the glasses-wearing girl.

"Why are you hiding your feelings from her?" Imu asked.

"Because she's usually a masochistic idiot who licks dirty puddles to get sick and get off..." Ryōbi got out with a pout.

"Ew." Tsumuji grimaced.

"But that isn't who she is now thanks to her coming to Tokyo." Imu reminded as she stared at Ryōbi directly in her eyes. "So why tell us to hide what happened here?"

"..." In turn, the brunette went silent.

"You're scared." Imu bluntly accused.

"I am not." Ryōbi angrily got out in denial.

"You're scared of being true to anyone. Not even yourself!" Imu then accused.

"And that's not true!" Ryōbi countered. "I know who I am and what I want, and I don't need a super lesbian fuck-up, some nobody slave shithead, and a psychotic pervert to tell me who I should be!" She then declared.

"I am not psychotic!" Haruka called out as her eye twitched. "Only mildly disturbed and correcting herself from being as such!" She then added.

Ignoring that, the glasses-wearing girl went for the verbal finishing blow. "And who do you want to be!?" Imu demanded.

"I...I..." Ryōbi began before trailing off while looking down at her current bust, losing all the anger she had left. "I...I..." She got out in a more hollow tone as her eyes went hazy.

"...You want everything to go back to normal." Imu concluded. "Before your sister died." She then added.

"I...I..." Ryōbi however kept repeating, sounding as though she was broken.

"Ryōbi," Imu soon began. "Haruka also told me what happened. About how your sister fell for the same guy that my sister fell for...and how she how she changed as a result." She soon revealed. "Just like how Murasaki's changed." She added. "It's...It's too late for anything to return back to the way it was. We can't bring the dead back, we can't revert back to who we were, we can't...take back the mistakes we've made. But as long as we're still breathing, it will never be over. We can still make our lives, we can still find a reason to smile...we just have to keep fighting." She then stated. "...So, who do you want to be?" She eventually asked.

"...A better person. To be happy." Ryōbi eventually answered. "It's...It's what Ryōki-oneechan wanted for us." She soon recalled.

"And how are you going to do that?" Imu soon asked.

"...Go back to Hebijo and talk to Ryōna as a sister...and not as a stress relief tool." The brunette soon decided. "...I still hate Miyabi, don't you ever forget that, but..." Ryōbi began before trailing off.

"I understand." Imu replied with a nod. "And whatever you decide, I'll be there." She then declared.

"To stop us?" The brunette assumed.

"I don't know. It depends if you stand against us or with us." Imu replied and she shook her head. "What matters...is that you'll have something to go back to after you're done." She then declared.

"...Thank you." Ryōbi honestly got out.

"Don't." Imu responded as she shook her head.

"Fucking fine then. Saggy big busted bitch." Ryōbi responded before grumbling.

"Right back at you, sadistic fuck nugget." Imu mumbled under her breath.

"!" Ryōbi's eyes widened to that insult and felt a pleasing shiver down her spine. "Ooooh~ That felt sooo good to hear~ Woof woof!" She moaned before blinking as her face grew pale. "Aaaahhh! I forgot about that stupid shitty potion! I still hear barking in my head! Woof!" She then screamed as she stuffed her face into a nearby pillow.

The ones in the room could only wonder if she was trying to suffocate herself from the embarrassment...or to get off.

"I...I think they worked it out..." Tsumuji soon got out with a weirded out look on her face.

"So it would seem." Haruka replied with a nod. "They aren't so different, I observe." She then noted.

"I dunno, Haruka-sama. Only one of them actually has real boobs." Tsumuji muttered in an uneasy tone.

"Ugh...I still can't believe both of our sisters changed thanks to that guy..." Ryōbi eventually grumbled.

"And fell for him." Imu groaned out the reminder. "...Do we agree to rip his balls off if he tries anything funny?" She soon asked.

"Huh, finally we're on the exact same page." Ryōbi remarked as the two high-fived.

"And face your sister's wrath as a result?" Haruka however reminded in disapproval as she crossed her arms over her chest. "I heard about how Murasaki-chan ragdolled you, Imu." She then added.

"It's about if the jerk acts like a fucking jerk, you jerk." Ryōbi corrected. "Wouldn't you like to hurt him if he does something monumentally stupid? Like...I dunno, go into the red light district picking fights with the yakuza." She then pointed out.

Haruka frowned at that. She wouldn't hurt him. She would heal whatever injuries he may have...and then hurt him.

For teaching purposes...before bringing him to the bedroom to rest.

"Also, why does everyone keep bringing that up?" Imu complained. "I get it, I lost badly. If you wish to keep rubbing it in, don't bother asking for any help from me." She then stated and pouted.

"Hey, when you see essentially a real life version of the Hulk vs Loki from the Avengers movie, you can't help but talk about it." Ryōbi remarked with a smirk of amusement.

"It's not so funny when you experience it yourself." Imu countered in a deadpan tone. She could very clearly remember the sound of her spine breaking. "How would you feel if your sister did that to you?" She soon pointed out.

"Pfft, Ryōna, even if she isn't a total idiot anymore, would never do that." Ryōbi denied while waving it off...and resisting the urge to say that she was thinking it would feel good if she experienced it. "She's not a beefcake like Murasaki." She then added.

"That's what I thought until right before that." Imu grumbled. "She gained so much physical strength in such a short amount of time...Not even the hardest working shinobi can do that so easily and in such a short amount of time, especially when she's been living off junk food for two years...I wonder if it's the Root boosting her development..." She then muttered.

"If she finds out that's true, she'd probably shut down..." Ryōbi mumbled. "She absolutely hates the thought of even using it in small ways." She then added with a wince.

"I know, and that is what is going to be her downfall..." Imu countered. "Letting her hatred grow for some many things...including me...I need to make her realize the Root will destroy her if she doesn't face it." She soon stated, causing the Crimson Squad members to narrow their eyes in held back anger.

"But it's, like, pure evil." Tsumuji pointed out.

"It is not, just...it depends on how you use it." Imu groaned out. "Like a bullet in a gun, it can protect who you love but also kill a precious person. Evil and Good...aren't as black and white as one may think." She then explained.

"But it-" Tsumuji began.

"It may draw from negative emotions, but so does any technique used against someone you hate." Imu interrupted, sick of having to explain this over and over again. "But you'd never understand, would you? Everything you do is for the good of those who deserve it. Only you and the rest of Crimson Squad have the right for a better life than those who can only stay at Hebijo." She bitterly mumbled, her voice once more going into its depressed and reclusive sounding tone.

"..." Haruka and Tsumuji went silent, dropping their glares.

"...It's okay to be selfish, but never look down on those without a choice." Imu stated before shifting inside her blanket cocoon...it really felt right to her now.

"...She fucking got you there." Ryōbi spoke up.

"Shut up." Tsumuji ordered.

"Just saying." The brunette responded as she held her hands up.

"Imu." Haruka suddenly began.

"Hm?" Imu hummed out from her blanket cocoon.

"I think you're ready...to meet darling." The blonde doctor finally stated, confusing the glasses wearer.

---

(9/30, After School)

(Aoyama-Itchome, Shujin Academy)

Akira had a happy smile on his face as soon as he heard the bell ring. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, the other students weren't looking at him with disinterest, apathy, or fear.

It was good to be Akira Kurusu today. And he hoped whatever god was looking up/down on him would not ruin this for him.

"Alright, school's over!" Akira breathed out as he leapt down the steps of the front entrance.

"You been pretty jolly since you crafted the Eternal Lockpick." Morgana commented, sharing his infectious glee. "Eager to test it out?" He had to ask.

"Nope. As happy as I am getting it, I'm just feeling good today, I guess." Akira admitted with a shrug.

"Maybe you're feeling lucky. You might want to get a scratcher then." Morgana suggested.

"Hm, maybe later." Akira waved off before spotting Asuka near the front gate, waiting for him.

"Akira-kun!" Asuka exclaimed upon spotting the boy.

"Asuka." Akira happily got out as he saw the Vice Leader practically skip over to him.

"Hey, Akira-kun." Asuka greeted. "Do you mind if you join me at Leblanc today? It's been a while since we talked alone." She soon asked.

"Oh, that's pretty convenient. I was planning to work today." Akira chuckled in amusement.

"Hm, well, if you're gonna do that, I'll be spending time with Ryuji." Morgana spoke up and he leapt out of the Leader's bag.

"Alright, see you tonight!" Akira got out before turning to his friend. "So, to Leblanc now?" He soon questioned.

"Hai! Let's go!" Asuka responded before grabbing the boy's arm and whisked him away...all the way to the train station.

---

(Yongen-Jaya, Leblanc)

Sojiro couldn't help but smile as he watched the two kids work. They practically ran the cafe by themselves while all he did was sit back and relax. Sure, it wasn't exactly a lunch rush, but they both moved and talked as if they've been working together for years.

He was proud of them. Although, he wasn't going to say it right now. Gotta keep these kids on their toes, after all.

"Thank you, sir! Have a lovely day!" Asuka happily exclaimed.

"You too, Asuka-chan!" The elderly customer responded before leaving the cafe.

"Whew! Done!" Akira breathed out as he wiped his forehead with a towel before throwing it over his shoulder. "That's what I'm talking about!" He then cheered.

"Woo!" Asuka responded as the two high-fived. "Hm, makes me want to open up my own cafe..." She then admitted.

"Me too." Akira confessed as well.

"Hey, don't go and talk about running me out of business during work hours." Sojiro lightly scolded.

"S-Sorry, Boss!" The two diligent workers responded.

"Just be thankful now it's after work hours." The owner sighed before yawning. "I'm gonna go turn in early tonight. Why don't you two take care of closing today?" He soon stated.

Akira and Asuka looked at each other and shrugged. "I don't mind." The Leader admitted.

"Yeah. You go rest up, Boss." Asuka agreed with a nod.

"Alright. See you two next time." Sojiro chuckled before heading out.

After a few seconds of silence, the two let out a sigh of relief. "Finally alone." Akira breathed with a smile.

"Yep." Asuka nodded before checking the door. "Let me go flip the sign and lock the door real quick." She soon got out as she pulled her key out of her pocket.

"Got it. I'll be cleaning the counters then." Akira responded before instinctively getting the towel on his shoulder.

"Ew! Akira-kun! That's your sweat towel!" Asuka got out in disgust. "That's a health code violation."

"Oh, right! Sorry! I'll get a new one." Akira apologized, blushing in embarrassment as he went to get a clean towel.

"You better!" Asuka called out as she got to work.

A few minutes later, the cafe was clean and ready to close for the night, but Akira and Asuka's afternoon wasn't quite done yet. Instead, Asuka was in the kitchen making some celebratory coffee for the both of them.

"To think I know a demon slayer is working at a coffee shop." Akira chuckled out as he sat down.

"Demon slayers need money too." Asuka giggled as she got out two cups for each other. "Plus, this demon slayer had help from some really good friends of hers." She soon reminded with a wink.

"Hey, you got the last blow, so it's your kill. No takesies-backsies." Akira stated.

The Vice Leader couldn't help but laugh. "Well, it doesn't matter anyways. It's not like anyone will know what happened, and I prefer it to be that way." Asuka soon pointed out. "I have enough rivals." She then reminded.

"Does that include me? Because I'm willing to top killing a demon." Akira joked.

"You can try, Akira-kun." Asuka responded in a serious tone, yet the smile on her face said everything.

"You seem happier these days. Well, more than usual." Akira remarked. "Did something happen?" He soon asked.

"If you're thinking that me and Homu-neechan are dating, you have one sick mind." Asuka grumbled. "It is now incest." She then claimed in a sure manner.

"It's not incest, it's inseki." Akira however corrected, confusing the Vice Leader greatly. "But no, I wasn't thinking about that. I was just wondering what happened." He then answered.

"It...It took a while but I finally know what I'm going to do with my life." Asuka soon confessed in a somewhat sheepish manner.

"And that would be...?" Akira urged with a raised eyebrow.

"Basically what I've decided on is to no longer be a Good Shinobi. I wanna be someone who helps anyone in need no matter whose side they're on. I want to fight for what I believe in and to create my own legacy rather than hiding in the shadows of others." Asuka soon revealed with a smile.

"Ah, so you want to be everyone's guiding light, not just those already in the light." Akira then deducted. "You know it's going to be tough." He soon reminded.

"Hai, but this is my life and I'm going to do anything and everything I want to do!" Asuka declared as she pumped her fists in determination.

"Like...?" Akira got out as he leaned a little closer to the girl with an amused smile on his face.

"Modeling of course!" Asuka happily declared. "As well training and hanging out with Homu-neechan and all of my friends!" She then listed off.

"So...exactly what you're doing now?" Akira then pointed out in amusement.

"Yep!" Asuka replied. "I might get myself more hobbies though! Like...knitting..." She then revealed.

Akira in response chuckled to this. "The sky's the limit." He replied in amusement. "Great Risette song, by the way." He then added.

The Vice Leader in turn nodded in agreement to this statement as she giggled. "Akira-kun...I can say that this year so far has been the best year of my life. I can't believe that I managed to change so much when I still have a lifetime ahead of me. And you helped me all throughout. Thank you, Akira-kun. I promise, no matter what happens, I'll be by your side." Asuka reassured with a smile.

Akira smiled back.

Akira let the calming feeling wash over him, the world around him going dark while the last of the chains broke around the Happy Squirrel tarot card. He could feel the familiar warmth of his Thief clothing embrace him. Reaching out for it, he grabbed it before crushing it in his hand, letting the blood of the card flow down his arm and seep through his skin.

No longer was this a simple bond, but an unbreakable connection to last a lifetime...

SHATTER!

I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath.

Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion
and break the yoke of thy heart.

Thou hast awakened to the ultimate secret
of the Happy Squirrel, granting thee infinite power...

MAX RANK!

Second Awakening: Transforms Persona into a mythological trickster.

Unlocked the Ultimate Persona of the Happy Squirrel! The Master of Time, Chronos!

A soft green glow soon covered the brunette as she closed her eyes for a moment before reopening them. "Wow! I feel a new power blooming within me!" Asuka muttered in excitement.

Within herself she could see Kaeru shatter into a million pieces before reforming into...something different.

In Kaeru's place was a toad-like woman that had glowing dark green eyes with long light green hair that reached her butt. She wore a rather revealing emerald green and dark brown camouflage-patterned shrine maiden outfit equipped with hidden blades and weapons. Along with that, she wore a scarf around neck similar to Asuka's own. On her right breast, in white ink the kanji for "first" was tattooed. Finally, in both her hands she wielder two immaculately designed katanas, although only one had bells tied to it.

"It is more than that young Asuka." An unfamiliar, mature female voice echoed within the girl's head.

"Eh? Wait, who are you? W-What happened to Kaeru?" Asuka then asked in her head in concern.

"Kaeru has done all she can to help you forge your path. But now that you have reached the end, she has evolved to something more. No longer are just light, but you are the hope it needs." The new Persona revealed. "I am Chiyome, the First Kunoichi! Your path to glory is complete, now use this new power to change the world!" Chiyome soon declared in a proud manner.

Nodding to that, Asuka smiled in an enthusiastic manner. "Hai!" She mentally replied.

"Did something happen, Asuka?" Akira asked, though he had a type of smile that told her that he knew what had happened.

"Just...Um...I evolved to be more than a shinobi, but a...um...dammit." Asuka got out in frustration.

"Hey, you don't have to explain it now. You can show me later." Akira stated with an amused expression on his face.

"Well...all this talk and coffee is making me hungry." Asuka soon revealed as she patted her stomach. "Do you mind if I make some futomaki rolls for us?" Shevsoon requested.

"How can I say no?" Akira responded.

Asuka nodded before getting to work, flashing through all the steps of making one in a flash. She was basically a blur!

Soon enough, she slid over the plate in front of the Leader.

"This is it Akira-kun! My Perfect Futomaki Rolls!" Asuka proudly declared.

"Perfect? That's a bold claim, Asuka." Akira remarked.

"It's also a bold claim to beat something higher than the progenitor of all Yōma." Asuka reminded with a smirk. "Now come on, try it!" She soon urged.

"Alright." Akira chuckled as he began eating one of the rolls.

"...So, what do you think?" Asuka eager asked, impatiently tapping her foot while playing with her fingers behind her back.

"I was half expecting this to give me an orgasm like in Guerilla Gourmet." Akira admitted before taking another bite. "But it's damn perfect, Asuka!" He then praised with a smile.

"Oh thank god." Asuka sighed in relief.

"Huh?" Akira got out in confusion. "Wait, what did you put in it?" He soon asked as he studied his...empty plate. Son of a...

"Ah ah ah, a shinobi must have some secrets, Akira-kun." Asuka responded as she waggled her finger at the boy.

"Come on, pretty please?" Akira pleaded.

"No is no, Akira-kun." Asuka stated in a firm manner.

"Fine then, I'll just make my own." Akira soon decided as he began cracking his knuckles.

"Oh, you will never beat me in sushi!" Asuka declared with a fire in her eyes.

"Hey, the closer they are on the top, the easier it'll be to topple them." Akira pointed out with a smirk.

"Akira-kun..." Asuka pouted as their playful conversation and budding culinary rivalry continued long into the night.

---

(Fast Forward)

"You...are really close with Yin, aren't you?" Sae remarked with crossed arms while keeping an eye on the young man across the table.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Akira chuckled. "I've made plenty of friends over the year, people who made what would've been the worst time of my life...one of the best that I'll cherish until the day I die, but Yin...she's the person I needed to meet the most." He then confessed.

"And what makes you think that?" Sae questioned as she narrowed her eyes.

"She...well, she's pretty much one of the first real friends that I have made when I first arrived in Tokyo, and...I'm grateful to have a friend like her." Akira breathed out, placing a hand over his heart with a smile on his face. "Maybe I'm exaggerating a bit much, but that's pretty much how I feel." He then got out with a shrug.

"Hm. Well, I suppose it's important for a person to have some connections along the way." Sae stated with a small frown. "I just hope you don't mind losing that connection after I'm done with you." She soon added under her breath.

Akira narrowed his eyes. "Not unless we have something to say about that." He thought, hiding his smirk.

Although, Akira might be changing a few details here and there...

(Rewind)

---

(9/30, After School)

(Aoyama-Itchome, Shujin Academy)

The Leader of the Phantom Thieves had a massive smile on his face when he walked through the front entrance to leave school, which actually weirded out several students. Anyone who saw him would usually see a scowl, a determined look, and completely blanked out when he was not with his friends. But right now, it looked like he didn't have a single care in the world.

"Alright, school's over!" Akira breathed out as he leapt down the steps of the front entrance.

"You been pretty jolly since you crafted the Eternal Lockpick." Morgana commented, sharing his infectious glee. "Eager to test it out?" He had to ask.

"Nope. As happy as I am making it, I'm just feeling good today, I guess." Akira admitted with a shrug.

"Maybe you're feeling lucky. You might want to get a scratcher then." Morgana suggested.

"Hm, maybe later." Akira waved off before spotting the Vice Leader near the front gate, waiting for him.

"H-Hey, Akira-kun." Asuka got out, waving over to the boy with a nervous shuffle.

"Asuka." Akira responded as he quickly ran up to her. "Hey yourself." He cooly greeted.

"Hey." Asuka replied before turning away to curse herself out. Why did she greet him again!? Oh God, it's all falling apart already."Um...it's been a while since we had some time together, huh?" She soon muttered.

The Leader's eyes widened as he realized his neglect of his girlfriend. "I-I'm so sorry. With everything going on, I just couldn't find the time to be with you." Akira sighed out. "God, I am not doing this boyfriend thing great." He then groaned in a guilty manner.

"N-No no, it's okay." Asuka assured. "I should've taken responsibility to organize time together too." She then admitted, looking rather guilty herself.

The couple sighed in unison before going silent for a few seconds. "So...why don't we resolve that?" The Leader soon suggested, looking rather eager.

"Today?" Asuka got out in a hopeful tone.

"Today." Akira responded with a nod.

"O-Okay, um...where do you wanna go?" Asuka soon asked. "Please don't be anywhere near or in Big Bang Burger..." She then pleaded.

"It won't be that..." Akira promised. "It'll probably be in my own time. Those burgers can feed families for weeks and I need the calories to-" He soon began, however...

"Akira-kun!" Asuka interrupted the boy's mumblings.

"Sorry, um..." The Leader awkwardly apologized.

"You know what? How about Leblanc?" Asuka soon suggested.

"Leblanc?" Akira repeated, looking a little skeptical at the suggestion.

"I-In your room." The Vice Leader added with a small blush on her face. "I-I mean...I...it would be a great place to have our first date in Japan." She then stammered out.

"Asuka, you deserve a little more than a stay-at-home date." Akira stated as he shook his head. "Well, a stay-in-attic date..." He soon mumbled with a sigh.

"Akira-kun, I didn't agree to be your girlfriend so you could take me to fancy places. I just wanted to spend time with you." Asuka responded as she held her boyfriend's hands. "D-Did I come out too-Mm!" She then began to worry, only to be interrupted with a kiss on the lips.

She was surprised at first but she accepted it, closing her eyes and sinking down into the dreamy depths.

Soon, the two pulled away. "Let's go home." Akira whispered.

"...Yeah. Let's." Asuka breathed out, taking his hand as they headed for the train station.

---

(Yongen-Jaya, Leblanc)

Asuka had swung by her apartment to change out of her uniform and into her casual clothes before heading to Leblanc with Akira. Morgana had left earlier to hang out with Ryuji until evening and Homura was out doing her own thing. Everyone else was either busy or wanted some time alone.

So, until evening, no one was going to come into Leblanc and interrupt their little date.

"Asuka, are you really sure you don't wanna go out for...supper?" Akira asked. "I mean, there are plenty of good places we can go in Yongen." He soon suggested.

"We'll go there later." Asuka groaned, a little sick of her boyfriend trying to convince her to let him take her out somewhere other than where she wanted. He's been doing this since they met back up. "I just want to be alone with you, and there's no other place we can go other than Leblanc." She then stated.

"Alright..." Akira finally relented as they arrived at the cafe and entered.

"Hey, Akira. I-" Sojiro began to greet before noticing the Vice Leader. "Oh." He then got out.

"Uh, hey, Boss." Akira greeted with an awkward smile. "We're not working today, just gonna hang out." He soon informed.

"You two have fun?" The cafe owner asked.

"We're going to." Asuka answered before covering her mouth with her free hand.

"Uh, we'll be quiet while I'm up in my room so don't come up!" Akira quickly got out as he dragged Asuka upstairs as everyone in the cafe stared at them.

Sojiro could sigh and shake his head.

Meanwhile, the duo let out breaths and wiped their brows. "Maybe we should've gone to that fancy restaurant first." The Leader sighed.

"Hey, it was my fault for suggesting we come straight here." Asuka awkwardly reminded. "So let's make the most of it without getting Boss to come up here." She soon decided.

"Right." Akira replied in agreement with a nod.

"So um...what should we do?" Asuka soon asked.

"U-Uh..." Akira began, unsure of what to say. "Um, let's save the romantic stuff for when we aren't in danger of getting caught. Er, we could do some homework together, compare notes, uh...plan out tomorrow's lunch...?" He soon decided and suggested.

"Well...why don't you change out of your uniform first?" Asuka meanwhile suggested. "It would be a lot better for your confidence if you're in something more comfortable..." She then pointed out.

"You're blushing just as red as Ann's suit." Akira amusingly pointed out before gulping. "N-N-Not that I'm thinking about her outfit right now..." He quickly added.

"Trust me. It's taking a lot to not hide in the bathroom and dry heave." Asuka confessed. "Like...I-I have...I haaaa..." She soon began to dry heave anyways, becoming redder and sweatier by the second.

"Asuka, breathe." Akira got out as he held onto her shoulders. "Lay down on the bed. I'll change and grab some water for you, okay?" He soon instructed in a comforting manner.

"T-Thank you." Asuka responded as she let herself relax on the bed and rolled over a bit so that she looked on either the ceiling or the window outside.

After that, Akira distanced himself from the bed and began changing. First, he stripped off his shirt by pulling it up and out, revealing his rather lean body. She hadn't really focused on it all that much over the year, despite how many times their clothes have either been torn or destroyed in the Metaverse and maybe even during shinobi combat, but...

"I didn't know you could sleep with your eyes open." Akira's voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

"Eh?" Asuka got out in confusion before realizing that she was staring at the semi-nude Leader...and there was also drool leaking out of her mouth. "Oh crap!" She swore as she wiped her face clean.

The Leader couldn't help but laugh a bit. "Want to see more, though?" Akira casually asked with an amused smile.

"Eh?" Asuka got out.

"Well, consider it compensation for all the looks people give you." Akira stated as he began undoing his belt. "You deserve to be a perv too." He then declared.

"...Uh..." Asuka genuinely looked...conflicted.

"Anyways, keep looking or don't. I'm still gonna change." Akira got out as he took off his glasses.

Asuka...decided to turn away, resisting her own urges as she simply listened to her boyfriend changing his clothes. "Was Mona-chan right back at the castle!?" She soon thought in a panic.

Oh God, what was she supposed to do in this situation!? The one thing she didn't train for: intimacy with a significant other. She didn't expect to have a boyfriend this decade or maybe even this life! If she knew she'd fall in love, she would've practiced!

"W-What do I do!?" Asuka frantically thought as she reached deep into herself, searching for answers.

Suddenly, a chibi version of Ikaruga appeared in front of her. "Stay calm. Think of this opportunity as training itself. Akira will most likely forgive mistakes and-" She instructed in a clear and consistent manner...right before tackled over by the rest of her chibi-teammates.

"Ignore her. The best way to deal with this situation is to devote every waking moment of your life to ensuring his safety. Lock him away, tie him down, and service him until he never wants to move any more!" Chibi-Yagyū declared in a tone unlike her usual self, her nose bleeding rather profusely.

"You should give him lots and lots of hugs and kisses!" Chibi-Hibari soon got out in an innocent manner.

"When in doubt, rub one out!" Chibi-Katsuragi soon suggested with a sly smile.

It was right then, a chibi version of herself and her Persona appeared. "Cease and desist!" Kaeru suddenly demanded.

"None of you are helping!" Chibi-Asuka called out before they all began fighting amongst each other in a cloud of dust, with clothes and underwear flying everywhere.

So, in her nervousness and panic, Asuka began taking off her clothes.

"Alright!" Akira suddenly declared, dressed a little more nicely and homely than his usual style. "Let's get some homework do-" He soon began as he turned around and...

Saw Asuka sitting on his bed in nothing but her panties...which she was in the process of taking off.

"A-Akira-kun...!" Asuka stammered out. "Um...I...Uh...I misread this situation, huh?" She then awkwardly giggled.

"...I don't have condoms..." Akira mumbled as he stared in disbelief.

The Vice Leader suddenly wished she could open a hole in the ground and stay there until everyone forgot about her existence.

A little while later...

Akira and Asuka were currently nude...while sitting on the couch. And casually doing their homework on the table in front of them like it was a normal thing to do.

Akira had decided to strip to make things a little less embarrassing for his girlfriend.

"And this is how you figure out the distance between 1, 5 and -9, 7 without a diagram." Akira stated as he finished helping her girlfriend on their own homework...while taking small glances at his currently nude girlfriend's body.

"Right, got it." Asuka got out with a nod...before shivering a little. "...Doing homework casually in the nude like this is weird." She soon admitted.

"Yeah, and I'm a dumbass for suggesting this." Akira sighed. Actually, he was rather surprised Asuka hadn't done something like this with Homura, given their closeness. "Sorry for being a real perv, Asuka." He then apologized.

"Um...I really don't mind, Akira-kun." Asuka confessed. "I'm surprised we haven't done that yet." She soon admitted.

"Yeah...maybe later." Akira muttered before realizing what he just said. "I-I mean, you know, later down the line. When we're not...um...erm...how do I work this out?" He soon sputtered before asking in a strangely high pitched manner.

"Akira-kun, why am I the braver one here?" Asuka questioned in confusion. For some reason, being naked with her boyfriend calmed her down while it was the opposite for Akira. "I know you're a lot more collected than this in the Metaverse." She soon pointed out.

"Because...well...sitting here naked with your girlfriend and uh...well..." Akira began to explain before subtly glancing downwards...and not at the brunette's boobs for once.

Asuka blinked before looking down for the first time since they had begun their study session. "O-Oh...wow..." She breathed out in awe and disbelief.

"Yeah, I think the lack of blood in my brain is making me dumber..." Akira sheepishly admitted. "Anyway, let's go to English next. " He then added as they began closing their Mathematics textbooks and notes and went ahead to the English ones.

"I have to say, Akira-kun...your body looks fit and toned." Asuka remarked as she clamped her hand on the boy's arm and squeezed his bicep. "Well, as expected from shinobi training by Homu-neechan." She then stated.

"I do more than that." Akira insisted as he flexed his muscles a little. "I do pull-ups, push-ups, crunches...all that stuff in the morning before I get the day going." He then informed.

"You go on runs too?" Asuka soon asked.

"...No, not really. The only runs I go on are with Ryuji after school. I just stay here until I'm ready." Akira answered, looking a little embarrassed. "Plus, Sojiro might give me an earful if he finds out I'm outside while the store is closed." He then added.

"He's been getting more lax with you though." Asuka pointed out. "Maybe if you ask, you could get away with it." She then suggested.

"I'll...try later." Akira responded. He soon looked down again at his girlfriend's nude body. "Anyways, um...may I?" He hesitantly asked.

"Hm? What?" Asuka got out in confusion, but that only lasted a second as she followed her boyfriend's gaze. "Oh...I know what you're...uh..." She soon stammered.

"Just...wanna check something." Akira reluctantly stated without much thought...before stopping himself. "I-It's stupid, forget about-" He then began, however...

"Y-You can, Akira-kun. I don't mind." Asuka responded with an affirmative nod, causing the boy to cough in surprise. "Hehe, it would actually be the first time someone's actually groped me with permission first." She then giggled.

Akira snorted a bit. "Unlike Katsuragi?" He assumed in a joking manner.

"Hehe, yeah." Asuka giggled the confirmation. "And don't forget the train incidents. And accidents. And-" She began to list off, however...

"Okay, starting now." Akira interrupted, not wanting to know any more about perverts feeling her up before slowly reaching for his girlfriend's nude chest in a gentle way.

BOING!

"Ah~!" Asuka moaned a bit by the gentle cop of the Leader's hand. "So, u-uh...how do they feel?" She soon asked with a pink blush on her face.

Akira then gently get a feel around her breast, earning small, soft moans from the brunette. "Hmm...have they got bigger and more firm?" He suddenly assumed.

"W-Well, yeah, but I haven't needed to change my bra size in a while..." Asuka mumbled out. "So...is it good?" She then asked.

"Y-Yeah. They feel like...pudding." Akira admitted, getting a bit.

Asuka held back a laugh. "Is that a compliment?" She once more asked.

"I...like pudding?" Akira awkwardly replied with a smile.

"Hehe...smooth, Joker." Asuka giggled.

"Hey, I'd like to see you do better." Akira countered, forgetting his embarrassment/raging desire before pausing. "...Wait." He got out with widened eyes.

"Too late." Asuka got out. "Okay, my turn, Akira-kun. Well, may I see your junior down there? That's…what Katsu-nee calls them, I think." She then added.

"Junior?" Akira repeated in confusion with a raised eyebrow before soon realizing what his girlfriend's blonde friend was referring to. "Wait, you wanna touch...my..." He soon began.

To that, Asuka nodded, the blush being red now. "Yes. If you don't mind, of course. You already touched my boobs so I want to touch something from you in return." She responded and requested.

Akira stared at his girlfriend before pinching his own skin. Nope, he wasn't dreaming. Probably the best thing to happen given the situation. "...Alright, alright, okay, you can touch me there. Just...be gentle, okay?" Akira soon agreed as he shifted a little on the couch...before spreading his own legs for the brunette to see.

"Don't worry, I will. Well, if you'll excuse me...I'll-" Asuka began as she slowly reached her hand towards the Leader's lower body, however...

RING! RING!

"Whew! Last customer." Sojiro loudly got out, almost as if warning them. "Better check up on those kids..." He then mumbled.

The couple froze in place as they both suddenly heard footsteps from the cafe below...and they both sensed someone climbing up the stairs.

"Clothes." Asuka whispered.

"Right." Akira nodded before tossing her clothes, bra and panties over and taking his own ones as well.

Luckily, with their shinobi training, they both got fully dressed in a matter of seconds, both undergarments in their respective places as the Leader quickly took out a random textbook and both of them back into the couch.

"...And that's why there are nipples on both of us!" Akira read out the first line he saw before seeing the cafe owner arrive. "Oh, hey Boss. What's bonking?" He soon greeted as he set down the biology textbook.

The cafe owner gave them a confused look before shrugging. He was sure heard some weird noises, but he guessed it was his imagination. "I'm gonna close up early today." Sojiro soon informed. "Just make sure to clean up the place after you lock up." He then requested.

"Sure thing." Asuka responded with a nod.

"And don't do anything stupid!" Sojiro then ordered.

"We won't!" They both reassured him a bit aloud.

In response, Sojiro gave the two another look before heading downstairs. When they heard the bell ring and the door close, they both let out sighs of relief.

"...I'm stupid, do me!" Akira suddenly got out before laughing to himself. "Hahaha...I'm sorry, I just had to say it." He then admitted, only to get a smack in the arm.

"Don't do that!" Asuka scolded. "If you are, you better be serious-" She then scolded before stopping her, but it was too late as they stared at each other with wide, unblinking eyes.

"..."

"..."

"Wanna go have some coffee now?" Akira soon suggested.

"And curry. And maybe a cold shower." Asuka added as she turned away.

"Ladies first." Akira offered before heading to the kitchen to start making a pot. "...Unless you don't mind the both of us bathing right now." He soon added.

"Just cook something for both of us, you perv." Asuka responded with a pout.

"Hey, we're both perverts. Don't just lay it all on me." Akira stated as he headed downstairs.

"Whatever, Akira-kun." Asuka responded with an amused smile before following her boyfriend...though she wished she would have agreed with the mixed bathing thing, but now was not the time and place for it.

Not yet, anyway.

Eventually, the couple washed up and cleaned the cafe after closing up the shop. However, after what happened earlier, things had become more awkward as the two sat at the counter, waiting for the other to make the first move. They haven't even cooked anything because of the atmosphere.

Akira quickly checked the time. They had been sitting here for ten minutes now and still nothing was happening. Quickly equipping a Happy Squirrel Persona, he went onto the attack. "Asuka." He spoke up.

"H-Hey, Jo- A-Akira-kun." Asuka stammered out, blushing and sweating a little.

"Why are you so nervous now? I'm not a different person, you know." Akira chuckled.

"I-I know but...I'm just scared." The Vice Leader confessed before letting out a mirthless laugh. "And just after I was so...so forward just before..." She mumbled.

"Do you want me to make us coffee?" Akira offered.

"And some food too." Asuka requested. "Moh...just thinking about it...I don't think I can even hold chopsticks right now." She then admitted.

"I'll make you something nice then." Akira responded with a nod, giving her a quick peck on the lips before he grabbed an apron and went to work. "Close your eyes. I want it to be a surprise." He soon instructed.

"Ah, okay!" Asuka nodded to that before using her scarf as a makeshift blindfold.

Humming a jaunty tune, she waited for Akira's surprise, idly listening to the sounds of footsteps and dishes. It didn't take too long, but it seemed really important that he got it right based on the swears he made under his breath.

"Are you okay, Akira-kun?" Asuka soon asked, having felt that she waited quite a while now.

"I'm doing okay, I'm almost done!" The Leader answered before putting the finishing touches on his surprise. "And...this is as good as it's going to get. Asuka, you can take the blindfold off." Akira soon informed.

The Vice Leader nodded as she undid her scarf and put it around her neck.

"Here you go." Akira got out as he slid the plate over to her.

Asuka blinked at the dish being served to her. "Sushi...?" She got out in disbelief.

"Yep." Akira replied in a proud manner. "I've been practicing ever since you got hired. I think it came out well, although I did cheap out on the ingredients a little..." He then admitted a little sheepishly.

"No no, it's fine. It looks really good, Akira-kun." Asuka assured before taking a roll and eating it. "Mmmm...It's so..." She moaned in delight as she tried to find the right word of praise.

"And today on the Asuka Innuendo Hour ..." Akira thought to himself in anticipation, waiting for the moment his girlfriend put her foot in her mouth.

"...It's really good!" Asuka praised after a bit of thought. "I can't really describe it. It's just...good." She then confessed.

"Just good?" Akira got out with a raised eyebrow.

"I tried really hard not to describe it like it was a penis!" Asuka snapped before covering her mouth with an embarrassed blush.

"Asuka, never change." Akira chuckled. "After all, I bet our children will inherit that part of...you..." He then added before slowly realizing what he just said.

The couple soon began to glow a bright red. "Ch-Ch-Children!?" Asuka squeaked.

"That...I...My mind was in a different place entirely." The Leader stammered in embarrassment.

"Hehehe...you're just as bad as me when it comes to saying embarrassing stuff." Asuka couldn't help but giggle. "I guess that makes us a perfect match then..." She then sighed with an embarrassed smile.

"Yeah..." Akira couldn't help but agree.

"Hey...d-do you mind if we go to the attic again?" Asuka asked with a blush. "I want to go somewhere private." She then requested.

"O-Oh. Okay." Akira couldn't fight the smile on his face as he and Asuka headed back up stairs. However, as they came up, he remembered something in particular. "...Hold on one second." He quickly got out before turning away to text a certain serial voyeur.

[TheWildJ0ker: Futaba, be honest with me, are you recording my room right now?]

[Alibaba9: No. You and Asuka are safe.]

(...)

[Alibaba9: Shit.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Bugs off. Deleting footage. Now.]

[Alibaba9: Turning off. You have 8 to 10 hours.]

[TheWildJ0ker: Thank you.]

"And...we are good." Akira announced. "Barring any uninvited visitors and sudden phone calls, we should be in the clear." He informed. Speaking of which, he made sure to turn off his phone.

"Alright then." Asuka responded as she did the same with her phone. With that, they were truly alone now, with nothing to tear them apart.

They didn't know who started it, but after a while Akira and Asuka had begun making out on his bed, covering each other in kisses.

Eventually, they had gathered enough sense to stop making out before one of them fainted from the lack of air. Pulling away, they stared at each other's sweaty faces, both grinning like they had already done the deed.

The Leader soon snapped out of it, breaking into a cold sweat as he began to worry. "Is this too fast or..." Akira asked in a slightly nervous manner.

"No, no! You go as fast or slow as you want. I'll tell you if I get hurt along the way and, well, you'll never hurt me." Asuka quickly assured while holding his hands in comfort.

"Actually, I have the feeling you'll hurt me. Y-You know, physically. Broken lips and hips." Akira mumbled out before covering his face. "Why do I keep talking...?" He then swore under his breath.

"Ehehehe..." Asuka giggled. "I promise I'll be gentle." She soon got out with a kind smile.

"Please." Akira responded before beginning to chuckle. "You know, it's funny. I thought the closest I'd ever get with you was back at the castle, when we needed to snap Homura out of her brainwashing." He soon reminded in awkward amusement.

"Y-Yeah." Asuka stammered, recalling what happened. "You really thought that was the best idea at the time?" She soon asked.

"Couldn't think of anything else. We weren't as good as we are now." Akira stated. "Now with paper fans and better skills, we don't have to do that ever again." He then added. And thank God for that, because it would make the relationship between each other way more uncomfortable than it already is if they really thought about it.

"Um, can I admit something?" The Vice Leader shyly requested, getting a simple nod from the Leader. "Back when you kissed me over my mask...I-I could feel it, like it wasn't there. It was really nice but it didn't take me until now to realize that...I loved it. And that I loved you after all this time..." Asuka confessed.

"And...I guess I have loved you since I met you too." Akira admitted before mentally slapping himself when he remembered he said that before. "I-I'm sorry for all those cracks about your chest. And being in love with Homura. I was just nervous and scared and I can't help myself from making myself look stupid..." He then apologized in an awkward manner.

"It's okay...I've accepted you're kind of an ass." Asuka giggled.

"...Sorry." Akira muttered in a soft tone.

"But...you would go so far to even fight Shin...risking your life for something you were never involved in..." Asuka got out. "I can't help but admire that." She then admitted.

"Thank you." Akira replied with a nod. "But...what happens now?" He soon asked.

"Erm...well...I'm not sure. Me and Suzuki-kun never made it this far..." Asuka shyly admitted while scratching her cheek.

"Yeah..." Akira got out before realizing what she just said. "...Wait, what?" He soon asked.

"Erm...I had something like a boyfriend before coming here." Asuka soon confessed with a blush.

Akira in turn raised an eyebrow to that. "Really? What happened?" He soon asked.

"Well...I had to end it because I didn't want him involved in the shinobi world. We only held hands." Asuka explained. "But...Now I don't have to worry about that. You're Joker after all." She then reminded.

The glasses-wearing boy merely chuckled. "And you're Yin, one part shinobi, one part model and one part phantom thief." Akira then reminded in amusement.

Asuka merely giggled to that as she leaned her head on her boyfriend's shoulder. "And all yours." She softly concluded.

"I don't think Homura would appreciate it if I took her from you..." Akira awkwardly chuckled, although the sweat dripping down his forehead told his girlfriend everything.

"Hehehe...oh no..." Asuka giggled out once more before realizing something. "I guess we should hide this from the others, huh." She then decided.

"Yeah. I kinda want to live..." Akira weakly chuckled out.

"It's a little too late though...Before I came up to you today, I told Mama, Papa and Jii-chan I have a boyfriend now." Asuka confessed, causing Akira to feel goosebumps on his skin and his spine freezing solid.

"...Are they gonna kill me now?" Akira asked as he looked around cautiously.

Giggling, Asuka shook her head. "Hehe, nope. Mama was really happy when she heard about it and Papa was really proud of me for getting a boyfriend." She revealed. "Jii-chan meanwhile is still on the fence about it but decided to not do what he did to Papa when he first refused him at first when it came to Mama, but he will want to meet you." She then added.

"So I only have the world's greatest shinobi to worry about impressing. Great. I'd rather face him." Akira muttered out in a somewhat sarcastic manner.

"If it comes down to it, I'll be by your side every step of the way." Asuka confessed as she kissed her boyfriend's cheek. "I'm going to surpass my grandfather with my own legacy, not his or anyone else's. I'm done just hiding in the shadows..." She soon decided.

"You'd make a sucky thief though..." Akira chuckled out.

"You know what I mean!" Asuka countered with a pout. "Akira Kurusu, I love you. Don't you ever forget that." She then confessed and declared once more.

"I love you too, Asuka." Akira replied with a smile as the two kissed once more.

CHU!

Akira let the calming feeling wash over him, the world around him going dark while the last of the chains broke around the Happy Squirrel tarot card. He could feel the familiar warmth of his Thief clothing embrace him. Reaching out for it, he grabbed it before crushing it in his hand, letting the blood of the card flow down his arm and seep through his skin.

No longer was this a simple bond, but an unbreakable connection to last a lifetime...maybe more.

SHATTER!

I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath.

Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion
and break the yoke of thy heart.

Thou hast awakened to the ultimate secret
of the Happy Squirrel, granting thee infinite power...

MAX RANK!

Second Awakening: Transforms Persona into a mythological trickster.

Unlocked the Ultimate Persona of the Happy Squirrel! The Master of Time, Chronos!

Asuka gasped as she pulled away, holding her breast she felt something within herself change and transform. "W-What's happening?" She thought before her eyes widened.

Within herself she could see Kaeru shatter into a million pieces before reforming into...something different.

In Kaeru's place was a toad-like woman that had glowing dark green eyes with long light green hair that reached her butt. She wore a rather revealing emerald green and dark brown camouflage-patterned shrine maiden outfit equipped with hidden blades and weapons. Along with that, she wore a scarf around neck similar to Asuka's own. On her right breast, in white ink the kanji for "first" was tattooed. Finally, in both her hands she wielder two immaculately designed katanas, although only one had bells tied to it.

"Wow! I feel a new power blooming within me!" Asuka muttered in excitement.

"It is more than that young Asuka." A mature and unfamiliar female voice echoed within the girl's head.

"Eh? Wait, who are you? W-What happened to Kaeru?" Asuka then asked in her head in concern.

"Kaeru has done all she can to help you forge your path. But now that you have reached the end, she has evolved to something more. No longer are you just a mere light, but you are the hope the land needs." The new Persona revealed. "I am Chiyome, the First Kunoichi! Your path to glory is complete, now use this new power to change the world!" Chiyome soon declared in a proud manner.

Softly nodding to that, Asuka merely kept her head on the boy's shoulder. "Hey Akira-kun," She soon started. "Do you mind if we just stay like this for a while?" She soon requested.

"How long is a while for you?" Akira asked with an amused smile.

"...As long as I want." Asuka soon replied as she snuggled closer to her boyfriend.

After that was a blur. All they knew was that Asuka had spent a long time with the boy she loved.

---

(9/30, Evening)

(Shibuya, Shin Megami Apartment Complex)

The brunette soon returned to her apartment. She grimaced a little, hoping the limp would've faded by now but hadn't in the slightest, before opening the door. "I'm back." Asuka called out.

"Sis, where have you been all this time?" Homura asked from the kitchen, in the middle of cooking tonight's dinner. "It's way past the usual time you come back. I was thinking I was about to eat without you. Well, not that I would..." She then added in a scolding manner. She couldn't help but notice her sister's slightly messed-up hair.`

"I was...cleaning Akira-kun's room." Asuka answered with a slight chuckle. To be honest, she really did do that. When they had to stop.

Mostly because Sojiro came upstairs again.

"It took you four hours to clean Akira's room." Homura replied in a skeptical manner as she narrowed her eyes. Asuka was faster than that. She could clean the entire apartment in an hour flat alone. Something felt off here...

"I-It's an attic, it's really dusty. I already ate at Leblanc so I'm gonna skip dinner and start the bath early." Asuka reminded and informed.

"...Okay. We'll just have it for breakfast tomorrow morning." Homura decided before noticing something. "Sis, did something happen? You're limping." Homura asked in concern.

"I'm fine! Fine, just...um...sleepy." Asuka quickly replied before going into the bathroom. Oh, she felt it starting to trickle out. She thought it would be hot, but she totally forgot about the risks to her health.

Thank God for the sealless contraception jutsu.

"...Eh, it's probably nothing." Homura muttered to herself with a shrug. I mean, come on, Asuka wouldn't lie to her about anything - especially if she had sex or something ridiculous like that.

Yeah, her innocent little sister would never secretly masturbate to memories on their shared futon tonight and lie about having a boyfriend from now until the last minute.

Nope, she would never.

---

(Shibuya, Central Street)

Meanwhile, in the always-busy streets of Shibuya, three sisters, an old lady, an ageless demon hunter and her guardian were walking down it. Despite their passive looks, they remained vigilant of any threat that may come to them. After all, they are experienced despite acting simply like the civilians around them.

"Weeeeeee~!" Kagura exclaimed with glee as she happily swung her arms playfully.

"Should we get shoes for Kagura-sama? People are staring." Naruku soon asked and informed.

"They stare for a whole lot of reasons." Kafuru got out. "For example, those bazookas you keep showing to everyone here." She then stated in a blunt manner.

"It's modern fashion!" Renka stated with a glare. "If we just wander around in our usual outfits, it would make it harder to hide. Besides, we talked about this already. We have to blend in." She then added and reminded.

"Um...are you guys worried about those...shutdown things here in Tokyo?" Hanabi couldn't help but ask aloud. "I'm worried it might happen to us." She soon admitted.

"From the looks of it, only people with authority got affected by it more often than not." Kafuru muttered with a frown.

"But civilians are also targeted as well." Renka reminded. "Why go after them?" She then asked.

"For many reasons. Knowing too much, to get to their family members, or as simple as wanton destruction." Sayuri explained. "Even with the knowledge of all the victims, we still cannot find a real pattern in their methods. All we know is that all of these incidents are not randomized. It's organized, for sure." She soon stated.

"Like the Phantom Thieves." Kagura spoke up.

"Correct." Sayuri confirmed with a nod.

"Mou...Why can't we solve this with fireworks...?" Hanabi whined with a pout.

"Not everything can be solved with fireworks..." Renka sighed out.

"What!?" The fireworks-lover exclaimed. "But I used them last week to clean up our trash!" She soon revealed.

"...Is that why we don't have a burnables bin anymore?" Kafuru got out with a glare. "Or a waste bin? Or any bin, for that matter?" She then added.

"...Is that a bad thing?" Hanabi had to ask.

"A very bad thing." Kafutu deadpanned.

"Both of you, stop arguing." Naraku sighed. "...Do we have enough red orbs, Kagura-sama?" She then asked.

"Almost!" The little girl responded. "They're really tricky to find, but they're appearing pretty much anywhere!" She then revealed.

"But there haven't been any Yōma sightings or reports since then." Naraku revealed. "It's becoming increasingly clear that the Yōma aren't just gone but...killed, dead." She then confirmed.

"But I haven't fought a lot of them..." Kagura then mumbled.

"Isn't that a good thing?" Hanabi pointed out.

"If someone was powerful enough to outright kill every Yōma in one fell swoop, we need to ensure that power is kept in check." Renka stated with a serious look on her face. "Who knows what they will do now?" She then added.

"So...we're hunting down someone, someones, or somethings that is powerful enough to rival Kagura-sama." Kafuru muttered with a frown. "...I have several issues with this." She soon confessed.

"There is no helping it." Sayuri sighed as she shook her head. "Whoever or whatever they are...they could also bring the world down to its knees if they seek t-" She then concluded, only to be interrupted by some loudmouth idiot.

"Dakkadakkadakkadakka! Ker-chuck! BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! Oh no, here comes the Omega Laser! BWOOOOOOOM!" Said loudmouth idiot was a boy with dyed blond hair who was shouting while miming all the shooting and death they had experienced in the arcade they had just left, while his enamored partner laughed at his antics, clutching her stomach as she held onto the boy for support. They didn't notice the general public staring at them with looks of confusion and annoyance.

"Isn't that the gym guy?" Renka remembered with a frown.

"Meh, I sort of shoved him out of my mind after we saw him." Kafuru responded in the same tone without a care.

"Man, you were killin' it at the arcade." The blond haired boy admitted in an impressed tone.

"Ehehehe~" The ravenette giggled with a blush on her face. "I'm surprised as well. But you are way better than me at those shooting games." She then admitted.

"I've uh...had practice, Hyōki." The delinquent muttered as he rubbed the back of his neck.

"You must spend a lot of time there, Ryuji-kun." Hyōki assumed

"Uh, yeah. It was either that or head straight home after what happened with the track team." Ryuji soon admitted. "Games are an awesome way to let out some anger, ya know?" He then added.

"Like pretending the enemies in that shooting game are someone you hate?" Hyōki innocently guessed. It was what she did when playing, referring to a certain blonde haired, violet eyed girl.

"Nah, shootin' 'em ain't satisfying. Tried that shit after Kamoshida back when he was the gym teacher." Ryuji replied, getting the ravenette's attention. "You go play one of those test your might games. Punching or slamming shit with a hammer is way better than pulling the trigger. 'Specially when you tape their dumb mug on the thing you're hitting." He soon added before chuckling sheepishly. "Uh, don't do it more than once though. The staff gets pissy if you do." He then advised and explained in an awkward tone.

Hyōki in turn giggled. "Speaking from experience?" She soon guessed.

"Oh yeah." Ryuji replied with a nod. "Don't do it these days. Got too many friends that'll worry 'bout me if I get in trouble." He then revealed.

"Hehe, don't worry Ryuji-kun, I know we're just friends." The girl meanwhile giggled out.

"Huh? Why'd you mention that, Hyōki?" Ryuji got out in confusion. "Your friends teasin' ya again?" He eventually guessed in concern.

To that, Hyōki blushed as she recalled her pinkette's friend teasing. "O-Oh! No, they're actually shutting their mouths about that." She responded. "Just, you know, um...reminding myself I have friends now." She awkwardly giggled.

"Mm, you'll get used to it soon enough. Now come on, dinner's on me tonight!" Ryuji soon shrugged off before throwing his arm over the girl's shoulders.

"Eh? But you treated me last time!" Hyōki got out and reminded.

"Eh, better than gettin' nagged at for not bein' a gentlemen or some shit by some nosy jerk." Ryuji responded.

"Ryuji-kun..." Hyōki breathed out as she held his hand.

"Huh?" Ryuji got out in confusion.

"O-Oh, I-" Hyōki stammered with a blush after realizing what she did.

"Nah, it's okay. Don't wanna lose ya in this crowd." Ryuji waved off, unaware of the ravenette blushing. "Shit, is there a sale goin'? Way too many people here tonight!" He then complained while the ravenette stared at him with a lovestruck expression on her face, which he didn't notice.

As this interaction was occurring, Sayuri couldn't help but smile a bit. "Regular young folk and their lives in content. It's a good feeling to remember." She then stated to herself with a sigh of content.

"Does he seriously not notice?" Kafuru asked with a raised eyebrow.

"How does he get anyone to hang out with him...?" Renka muttered as she shook her head.

"I like him!" Hanabi got out.

"Huh? Why?" Renka and Kafuru meanwhile asked as they both glanced at the fireworks-loving girl.

"Why not?" Hanabi got out before staring dreamily at her target of affection. "His body, his eyes, his fur..." She sighed with a smile.

"What?" Kafuru got out before noticing what the middle sibling was looking at. "You're looking at Biggles™ the Space Bear! We're looking at the couple over there!" She soon declared, eyeing the fast food chain's mascot.

"Huh?" Hanabi got out as she finally glanced at her companions before looking at the couple who Renka and Kafuru were referring to. "...Isn't it rude to stare at them?" She then reminded.

Renka and Kafuru only stared at her for a moment, realizing what she just said at them.

"Uhh...what?" Renka only got out from that.

"Is Hanabi looking down on us?" Kafuru however asked to herself, staring at the firework lover.

"But I'm just as tall as you guys." Hanabi reminded. "Except Kagura-sama here. Gosh, you're soooo cute~!" She then cooed out as she picked the little girl up and tickled her tummy.

"Ehehehehe!" The born and bred Yōma slayer giggled delightfully.

"That's not what I- n-never mind." Kafuru tried to explain, only to give up.

Sayuri got a decent laugh out of that while glancing at the couple with a decent smile on her face. "Reminds me of the good old days." She then stated.

"Remembering your days of youth, Sayuri-sama?" Renka assumed.

"That idiot husband of mine...he would serenade me with his awful ukulele before we get down and dirty in alleyways like that one..." Sayuri sighed out in a dreamy manner. "And then on our honeymoon...he was a beast in bed..." She then added in satisfaction along with a smirk.

"...I don't get it." Kagura confessed with a head tilt.

"I pray you never will, Kagura-sama." Naraku muttered with a blush on her face.

"Ugh..." Kafaru groaned.

"Did you two dokan?" Hanabi meanwhile asked.

"At least sixty-nine times." Sayuri answered with a smirk. "Trust me, he is one of the few men who have the immense stamina to keep up." She then added with a grin this time.

"...Are there actually guys like that?" Hanabi had to ask.

"T-Too much info Sayuri-sama!" Renka however exclaimed with a scarlet blush as they continued on their way.

Meanwhile, the yellow eyed girl with the blond looked back towards the elderly woman and her companions...more specifically the girl with long black hair. "Huh? Where're lookin' Hyōki?" Ryuji asked as he followed her gaze.

"It's...It's nothing, Ryuji-kun." Hyōki hesitantly responded. "It...It couldn't be..." She thought to herself in disbelief.

"Ah, I see what you were lookin' at." Ryuji got out in understanding.

"Eh?" Hyōki responded in confusion.

"Yeah. The DVD place just got Shin Godzillia in." Ryuji assumed, causing the younger girl to blink. "God, I wanted to see it on release in July but effin' homework and shit..." He then sighed.

"O-Oh." Hyōki got out as she looked at the boy. "Well...we could always rent it out and watch it together...somewhere." She then suggested.

"...Uh, I think I know an internet cafe that'll let ya share a room with someone else." Ryuji soon remembered. "It's nearby. Wanna go there next?" He then offered.

"Small room...together...pressed up against each other like lovers...!?" The ravenette thought in growing panic.

That was too much too fast! She couldn't handle that! Moh, why did he have to be so cute!? And why was he so casual about this!?

"U-Uh...can we get other movies too?" Hyōki then requested after a little bit of thought. "Make it a movie night?" She added.

"Well, I don't wanna stay out too late. Got effin' school tomorrow." Ryuji soon informed. "Why don't we go to my place? I'm sure I can convince my mom to let ya stay overnight." He casually suggested.

"..." Hyōki went silent as she realized the implications and possibilities. "Going to...Ryuji-kun's place...? Meeting Ryuji-kun's...mother?" She thought to herself as her imagination went into overdrive.

---

(Hyōki's Imagination)

"I-I shouldn't do this." Hyōki stammered out in a nervous manner. She was standing in front of the house she (assumed) he had and was about one word away from running away.

"Come on, it's gonna be effin' fine." Ryuji assured before opening the door to his house. "Mom! Brought a girl to stay the night." He announced in a much louder voice inappropriate for this time of night.

Hyōki quickly smoothed out her dress to make herself look a little more presentable before stepping inside. "H-Hello, Sakamoto-san, nice to-" She began stammering out, however...

"MARRY MY SON!" Ryuji's mom suddenly shouted out right in her face.

"Eeeeppp!" Hyōki squealed as she jumped back.

"Mom...!" Ryuji meanwhile got out in a whiny manner.

---

Then she blinked and suddenly confetti fell from the ceiling...and they were in a wedding venue. She was in a lovely white wedding dress and Ryuji was in a white tux with a yellow bow tie. It was their wedding day! And everyone she knew was there! From Miki to Yuki to...a cardboard cut-out of a blonde haired girl with violet eyes.

Hyōki was very confused.

...And why the fuck is Maki's favorite cat officiating the wedding!?

---

Then suddenly, the scene changed entirely again, and now the two were in a bedroom together...with the boy on top looking down at her.

And absolutely surrounded by lube and boxes of condoms.

Hyōki's head was scarlet as she looked at the boy. "Please be gentle..." She squeaked out, sounding as though she was entranced.

"Hyōki..." Ryuji hotly whispered, his sweaty skin and lean muscles rippling as he leaned down and...

---

"Hyōki? Yo, Hyōki!" Ryuji spoke up as he waved his hand in front of her face. "You okay? You've been staring at that sign for a minute now." He soon got out in concern. What was so interesting about New and Improved Extra Vegan Meat Gum? With Extra Vegan?

"Ah! H-Huh?" Hyōki dumbly got out, snapping out of her daydream. "I don't need to change my panties!" She suddenly exclaimed with a glowing red face.

"...Eh?...okay..." Ryuji responded in confusion. "I get my boxers a little wet after I'm done peein' but- n-never mind. Forget I said that." He soon mumbled out.

"...W-What are we talking about, hon- Ryuji-kun?" Hyōki began in a slightly dazed manner before snapping out of it and correcting herself.

"Uh, wanna go to my place and watch movies?" Ryuji asked again. "You know, Webflix and chill?" He then added. That was how that phrase was used, right?

"...Sure." Hyōki immediately responded with a thumbs-up.

"Cool. Alright, what other movies ya want?" Ryuji replied before asking.

"Uh...maybe some...romantic comedies?" Hyōki shyly suggested while poking her fingers together.

"Erm, sure. Not into them myself though. You mind lettin' me get some movies of my own?" Ryuji soon asked.

"Sure." Hyōki responded with a nod as she followed the boy to the video rental. In all honesty, she hated rom-coms from the few she has seen, it was just that she thought couples watched those when on dates.

And maybe there was love in the air tonight.

She'll tell her friends the slayer of all Yōma was out and about tomorrow.

---

Save Game… Quit!

---

Asuka/Yin's Social Stats:

Leadership- Paragon (Level 5)

Knowledge- Sage (Level 5)

Proficiency- Transcendent (Level 5)

Diligence- Rock Solid (Level 5)

Courage- Heroic (Level 5)

Homura/Yang's Development Stats:

Maturity- Sagacious (Level 5)

Knowledge- Sage (Level 5)

Femininity- Natural (Level 4)

Elegance- Yamato Nadeshiko (Level 5)

Understanding- Saintly (Level 5)

---

(Persona Analysis)

Persona: Chiyome

Belongs to: Asuka Shirokage

Arcana: L'Écureuil Heureux

Origins: 16th century Japan (Date of Birth and Date of Death Unknown)

Stat Spread: Average but with very high Luck and high Magic.

Trait: Road to Dawn (Gain more HP when using healing/support skills)

Skills: Magna Family, Media Family, Sukukaja, Masukakaja, Makajamaon, Lucky/Miracle Punch, Tetraja, Tetrakarn, Makarakarn, Megidolaon, Tentarafoo, Enduring Soul, Life Aid, Soul Chain, Evade Physical, Null Fear, Earth Boost, Earth Amp, Trigger Happy, Speed Master, Auto-Masuku.

MAX Confidant Skill: Portrait of Girls - Give all allies (except herself) boosts to all stats and restore some SP.

Resists: Fire

Drain: Earth

Null: Electricity, Curse

Weakness: Gun

Description: On the surface, Mochizuki Chiyome was a poet, noblewoman, and loving widow of Mochizuki Moritoki. However, underneath she was a deadly spy who swore allegiance to the Takeda clan soon after her husband's death. She became the first kunoichi in history, opening up a school to teach her skills to less fortunate girls and giving them second chances in life, training them in dance and etiquette, as well as disguise and espionage. Chiyome's work allowed the Takeda clan to stay one step ahead of their enemies until the mysterious death of their daimyō Takeda Shingen in 1573. From there, Chiyome disappeared from history...or was never there to begin with. It is possible that Chiyome was never real to begin with. But hey, history can be a very fickle thing.

---

(Happy Squirrel Personas)

Heracles (Level 7)

Mermaid (Level 15)

Sphinx (Level 26)

Gdon (Level 33)

Atlas (Level 48)

Dante (Level 58)

Tiamat (Level 63)

Zeus (Level 77)

Chronos (Ultimate) (Level 85)

---

Whew! Done! You know, it's kinda refreshing to have a shorter chapter this time around! We actually managed to write one in a reasonable time. Next chapter involves more stuff so stay tuned for more.

UknownHero signing off, my friends!