Chapter 8: Mementos/The Phantom Thieves of Hearts
May 2nd, in the evening.
Kazumi arrived with a smile at LeBlanc, and of course, Sojiro noticed it:
-"What's it? You're acting very lively today."-he asked her.
-"Hum?"-Kazumi stopped.-"Well, I got to make a lot of friends. For someone like me… don't you think is something I should be proud of?"
-"I see. That's good."-Sojiro crossed his arms.-"Just make sure they don't get you in trouble, you already have things to worry about."
-"By the way, two boxes came up for you."-Sojiro said as he pointed upstairs.-"They're a bit heavy so I carried them to your room."
-"Two boxes?"-Kazumi asked.-"I just remember to order one thing on Sunday though…"
-"Yeah, the other one is actually from your father."-he said and Kazumi rushed upstairs.
-"Good night!"-she said before leaving. Sojiro couldn't help but smile. He was fully aware about Kazumi's family situation and the fact that the girl was just acting like a little kid going for a present was precious. Inside him, he hoped that another person he was thinking about could smile like Kazumi just now.
-"Don't forget that tomorrow you'll be helping out here!"-he exclaimed to her.
-"Yes~!"-she exclaimed from the upper floor.
In her room, Kazumi left her backpack with Morgana in the table nearby the entry and went towards the boxes:
-"What's the rush?"-Morgana asked as he freed himself.
-"Yes! The new banana milk with yogurt mix!"-Kazumi said excited.
-"Oh, come on."-Morgana sighed.-"This is from your dad right? Why would you ask him for this?"
-"I didn't."-Kazumi said.-"He could've figure out that I'm spending money on these."
-"Seriously?"-Morgana was weirded out by the fact that Kazumi's father spoiled her with that milk so much.-"By the way, I have never seen you talk to your father or your mother…"
-"They are divorced. I lived with my father ever since I was twelve."-she replied having a serious expression on her face.-"I haven't talked with my father ever since I moved here."
-"Yeah, uhmm...Sorry for asking."-Morgana said uncomfortable. He felt responsible for ruining Kazumi's happy mood.-"Let's cheer up, shall we? After all, we're going to have a celebration soon!"
-"I'm fine, Morgana."-she said.-"I'll tell you guys about my past later on. For now, it's not the moment."
-"If that's what you want…"-Morgana sighed.
-"Oh. The cool sprays I ordered came!"-Kazumi said as she saw the other box.-"This sure will be useful in case I ran out of power to use Jack Frost-heeho!"
Morgana made no comments. After putting everything on place, Kazumi noticed that her plant was dying. It will be nice if she could get more nutrients but she had to go to bed as tomorrow, she promised to help in the store all the day.
May 4th.
Morgana woke up tired while Kazumi was arranging her hair:
-"Agh. The chief made us work a lot yesterday…"-Morgana said.-"We have to sell the medal today so you better say no in case he asks us…"
-"I know. Also don't address it as we, I was the one who did everything."-Kazumi said inflating her cheeks as a whim.
-"I gave you moral support!"-Morgana replied back.
-"Whatever you say, Blacky."-she said to him in order to annoy him.
-"Ok. Ok. Please, don't treat me by that name…"-Morgana seemed defeated.
They went downstairs, Morgana inside her backpack, and Sojiro noticed her:
-"Good morning, Sojiro-san."-she said.
-"Are you going somewhere? I was going to ask for you help once more but…"-Sojiro seemed indecisive.
-"Yeah. I'm sorry but I have something to do at Shibuya. Can I wash the dishes later?"-Kazumi said as she put her hands in a praying manner.
-"Well…"-before Sojiro could say anything, a customer arrived. It was the prosecutor, Sae Nijima.
-"Welcome."-Sojiro greeted her.
-"Am I interrupting something?"-the woman said as she saw Kazumi in that apologizing pose.
-"N-Not at all!"-Kazumi said nervous realizing what she meant and straighten up.
-"Are you a part-timer here? I'm surprised this place can afford one."-Sae said as she sat down in one of the chairs next to the serving bar.
-"Exactly. She's a part-timer here."-Sojiro replied immediately.-"Anyways, what are going your order?"-he asked the woman.
-"...I'll have the house blend please."-Sae replied.
-"What a heavy atmosphere…"-Kazumi thought as she saw Sojiro silently working. The news on TV caught their attention as it was about the subway accident from three weeks ago.
-"That's the thing everyone is talking about…"-Sojiro said as he was trying to open a conversation.
-"Doesn't it make you curious?"-Sae spoke.-"People who were living normal lives suddenly went mad or act deranged out of the blue. Not to mention that they happen one after another, could they be coincidental?"
-"Out of the blue…?"-Kazumi murmured curious. That was somehow familiar.
-"Are you interested?"-Sae smiled at the girl and after focusing on her face, she noticed something.-"Wait. That face… Where have I seen it before?"
-"Didn't you have something to do today?"-Sojiro interrupted.
-"Y-Yes! I'm going!"-Kazumi said nervous for the sudden reminder.-"Enjoy your coffee, miss!"-and she left.
-"Interesting high schooler you have as a part-timer huh?"-Sae said.-"Is my coffee ready yet?"
-"Coming right up."-he replied in a serious tone.
In the afternoon, Kazumi arrived at the Airsoft Shop in Shibuya:
-"It's you again. What can I do for you?"-the store owner said as he looked at Kazumi in front of him.
-"I'll looking to sell this."-Kazumi said as she handed out Kamoshida's gold medal in a box.
-"A gold Medal…"-the man said as he saw the item.-"Why do you have this? Listen kid, I don't buy any stolen or fake goods got it?"
-"How can you know that if you haven't checked it?"-she asked.-"I bet it's worth the money."
-"Heh."-the manager smiled as he was accepting a challenge.-"Let me see it then."
After the manager came back with the medal, he looked at her:
-"Fine. It's an authentic one. I'll buy it to you for 30,000 yen, how does that sound?"-he said.
-"Works for me."-Kazumi said with a smile and she received the money.
-"I'm not gonna ask you where did you get it from."-the owner said as he looked at the clock.
-"In exchange for the secrecy, take this."-he gave her a suspicious paper bag.-"It's a gift for selling me the medal. Make sure you come back with it the next time you come."
-"What's inside? Can I take a loo-"-before Kazumi said something, two men came through the door.
-"Munehisa Iwai, yes? We have a matter to discuss with you."-one of the man said.
-"Thanks for your purchase, please come back another time."-Iwai said to Kazumi as a signal to get out of the place.
-"I-I'll be going~"-Kazumi said nervous as she passed next to one of the guys.
-"You know why we are here right?"-one of the men said as Kazumi stayed in front of the door. Maybe that will give her clues about the object on the bag.
-"You tell me, Mr. Detective."-Iwai said with a cocky smile that made the other detective angry.
-Watch your mouth!"-he exclaimed as he slammed the table.
-"Are you here to check out on me? Go ahead."-Iwai replied.
-"Don't get cocky with us."-the detective replied pissed off.
-"What? An upstanding citizen is always on favor to cooperate with the cops, right?"-Iwai replied.
-"Are you sure those leads were correct?"-the calmed detective said to the other one who was angry.
-"I'm pretty sure that they were…"-the other one responded.
-"If you guys are done here, I have a business to attend."-Iwai said as he wanted to get rid of them.
-"You bastard…"-the angry detective said in disappointment and saw Kazumi still on the store.-"Hey, you! The girl!"
-"Yes…?"-Kazumi replied nervous. Why couldn't she stop sneaking into other's problems?
-"Show me what is on the bag."-he said.
-"She's the daughter of one of my respected customers. You can watch the surveillance camera footage as evidence."-Iwai interrupted.
-"What? If they see me selling that medal or that I bought guns with Ryuji-kun the other day…"-Kazumi thought scared.-"I better get out of here!"
-"Don't care. I wanna know what is on that bag."-he said.
-"It's nothing of your business."-Kazumi said in hurry.-"I better give this to my dad before it gets too late."
-"Heh."-Iwai smiled as he was proud of her guts.-"Have a safe travel, kid."
-"Thank you."-Kazumi said as she went out while hearing both detectives disputing.
After getting on the Shibuya Station, Kazumi opened the chat app:
"It's all done! We sold it for the highest price."-she texted to her friends.
-"Awesome! Hey, Ann. What about the place?"
×"All set. I got a good reservation."
×"Let's meet on Shibuya on the noon so we can go together there."
-"Sounds good. Kazumi, you remember the way?"
"I'm already used to it."
×"By the way, did you guys saw the news yesterday?"
-"About Kamoshida right?"
-"Man. It was great. No way the school is gonna play dumb with that."
×"Shiho's name didn't come either so I guess that's a relief."
"Maybe we can put this behind our backs and keep pressing forward."
-"Yup. Sounds good to me!"
×"Nothing a good buffet can't resolve."
-"Buffet? Hell yeah! I'm so excited for this celebration party now!"
Kazumi closed the app with a smile. The feeling that she could help her new friends was even more tendering as she read that conversation. Hopefully other people could move forward now that Kamoshida was done for.
In the evening, Kazumi arrived to her room. Sojiro didn't really told her anything related to that woman from the morning to who he tried so hard to lie to.
Morgana came out of her bag:
-"Hey, Kazumi. You should check the bag the owner gave us."-he reminded her.
-"I totally forgot…"-Kazumi hurried to take out the paper bag.-"But, would that be fine?"
-"He didn't say you couldn't. Aren't you curious?"-Morgana said.
-"..."-Kazumi thought that the contents could be dangerous. Who knows? Maybe the owner gave her drugs to make her a complice.-"I definitely need to know what's going on."
-"Open it!"-Morgana meowed. Kazumi did as told and saw with surprise a real-looking gun in the bag.
-"What the…?"-Kazumi said in shock as Morgana approached.
-"Wow! It's a real gun!?"-he said in shock.-"No, wait. It's definitely a model."
-"You scared me there."-Kazumi sighed.
-"Hey! This gun could do wonders in the Metaverse."-Morgana said after a thought.-"We should try to negotiate with him for the price of it!"
-"First the Doctor, now the Gun Shop owner…"-Kazumi sighed.-"Why are you making me negotiate with suspicious people?"
-"Nothing can be done. A Phantom Thief must be open in heart to form a deal with anyone!"-Morgana excused.
-"Still, he's different from Dr. Takemi."-she said.-"I bet he is not ordinary owner you know?"
-"I guess you have to gather more courage to speak to him about it, huh?"-Morgana asked and Kazumi nodded.
Kazumi received a call short after from Ann. They discussed about the news and how their actions gave people the courage to confess and move forward. Something like that made the whole Phantom Thieves deal easier to carry.
May 5th.
Kazumi and the others arrived to a five-star hotel with an exquisite buffet. Ryuji was eating a large beef loan while Ann was eating a cake, Kazumi though, she was just having a beef stew and sharing some with Morgana hidden on her backpack:
-"No wonder Lady Ann to choose such a great place!"-Morgana said happily.
-"Well, this is a famous hotel after all."-she replied as she took a spoonful of chocolate cake on her mouth.-"By the way, I heard the police was coming to do some interviews in our school."
-"That's troublesome…"-Kazumi said in worry.
-"Our names are going to come up for sure. People are spreading rumors about us and Kamoshida."-Ryuji said with his eyebrows frowned as he cut a piece of the loan.
-"But, we got 'em pumped up! I keep hearing people say things like 'The Phantom Thieves truly stole his heart' and sorts."-he cheered up.-"I think some of them don't believe but others are grateful with them."
-"Here. Check this out!"-Ryuji said as he showed a website on his phone.
-"The Phantom Aficionado Website…?"-Ann and Kazumi asked at unison.
-"Look at these messages, they're really grateful with us."-Ann said at Kazumi with excitement that she corresponded.
-"By the way, how was with Shiho? Did you mention her about the Phantom Thieves?"-Kazumi asked.
-"Heh. She couldn't believe it really."-Ann said with a smile that fade away a bit after remembering Shiho.
-"Something wrong?"-Ryuji asked as he took his phone back.
-"I forgot to mention it but, Shiho is going to change schools as soon as she is discharged."-Ann mentioned.-"The abuse and the suicide...people are surely going to frame her for that so her parents thought that was for the best."
-"It sure is gonna get lonely."-Ryuji replied.
-"It'll be fine! We'll be friends still and also, Kazumi is here with us too."-Ann said as she looked at Kazumi.
-"It's a kind of bittersweet ending, isn't it?"-Kazumi replied as she gave a spoonful to Morgana.
-"Ending, huh?"-Ryuji thought.-"What are we going to do now?"
-"I don't know...Maybe start eating?"-Kazumi said and both of her friends gasped realizing something.
-"Oh no! This place has a time limit!"-Ann exclaimed.
-"It's an hour right?"-Ryuji said.-"Agh! I won't be able to eat all the meat dishes!"
-"And I have to go through the entire dessert menu!"-Ann said and they both rushed to the tables.-"Kazumi, take care of our stuff!"
-"We'll bring something for you too!"-Ryuji said.
After a couple of minutes, their table filled up with tons of meat and cake dishes along with a plate full of all kinds of beans. Kazumi was watching surprised how her partners were enjoying their meals:
-"So good...It's like a meat explosion in my mouth."-Ryuji said.
-"This cake…! I can't have enough!"-Ann said.
-"These two just completely focused in one thing, really?"-Morgana said in disbelief.-"Hey, what did you bring for us?"
-"Well, I didn't know what Kazumi eats aside from banana milk so I brought some beans."-Ryuji said.
-"Beans!?"-Morgana exclaimed indignated.
-"There were also some fried bananas, hard-boiled eggs and other kinds of beans."-Ann said.
-"M-More beans!?"-Morgana was in utter shock while Kazumi was pinching her fork at the said plate where everything was just mixed up terribly.
-"It all got mess up but it should taste good."-Ann said.-"The Milton Hotel buffet...I heard so many things about this place but it's so awesome!"
-"Hey, calories."-Ryuji reminded to Ann.
-"Shut up. I'll never get a chance to get expensive cakes like this at such a great cost!"-she defended her eating habits.
-"Ehehe."-Kazumi couldn't help but laugh.
-"This is just plain grotesque…"-Morgana said as he looked at the food.
-"It's fine."-Kazumi said to him.-"Let them eat at their hearts' content. After all they have been passing through before us…"
-"Want to get some real food, Morgana?"-Kazumi said as she took her bag.
-"Of course! We'll teach them!"-Morgana said but they were not even listening.-"Hey! At least watch for our seat while we're gone!"
-"Yes, yes."-the other two said.
While taking food from the tables, Kazumi and Morgana eavesdropped a couple of conversations between wealthy people about Kamoshida's case. Uncomfortably, all of them ended up with the elders dissing Kazumi for being a minor. She ended up with tons of food...at Morgana's advice.
Ryuji and Ann looked shocked at the amount of food:
-"Woah. Are you two going to eat all of that?"-the blonde boy said.
-"I-It can't be helped."-Kazumi said nervous. She really got carried away.-"It's the first time I have visited such an exquisite buffet…"
-"Still, isn't that too much for you two?"-Ann asked.-"Ryuji, you should help her."
-"I think we both should help her."-Ryuji replied.
-"No way. I'm already stuffed."-Ann said.
-"Stuffed with your face full of cake…"-he murmured but Ann ignored it. -"Anyways, let's deal with this ourselves!"
-"Let's eat!"-Kazumi said as she started with some of the fish dishes.
After a while, the three of them finally got to finish it all. Ryuji felt so stuffed that he was about to throw up, same with Morgana, so Kazumi was forced to go to the upper floor restrooms with them.
While they waited for the elevator of that floor on the way back:
-"I'm so stuffed…"-Morgana said.
-"I'm too. I probably won't eat anything else today."-Ryuji said.-"How come you're totally fine, Kazumi?"
-"That was a breeze for me, actually."-Kazumi said as she moved her hand back and forth as sign of no worries.
-"Is your stomach some kind of Palace?"-Ryuji commented.
-"Maybe if you two didn't eat until you puke, everything will be fine."-Kazumi said to them and they got a bit depressed, because she was right.
Some adults were close to them and they suddenly backed off when a group of men in black suits arrived. They made their way to the front of the elevator by pushing Kazumi and Ryuji out:
-"Hey, what the-!?"-Ryuji exclaimed in shock.
-"Any information on the case?"-a bald man with orange shaded sunglasses said. He was surrounded by the other men in suits.
-"No. But, why are you so interested in this case? It's not on your concern..."-A man beside him asked.
-"I don't care about your opinions you fool! When I say to advance on it, you do it."-the bald man said in demand. Kazumi looked at his face in between his acquaintances and felt something familiar.
-"Hey, you're cutting on the line!"-Ryuji exclaimed to the men.
-"We're in a hurry."-the man beside the distinguished bald man said.
-"So you're in a hurry means you can push people around?"-he said.-"At least, apologize to my friend here!"-he pointed at Kazumi who was absent minded.
The bald man looked at her and Kazumi felt intimidated:
-"It seems the customer cast has changed since the last time I came."-he said.-"When did they decided to open a daycare?"
-"What?"-Ryuji said pissed off and when he tried to go after him, the man beside pushed him aside.
-"Sir, we have no time for this."-he said to the bald man.
-"Ugh, fine."-the man sighed and they all entered on the elevator. Kazumi saw the face of that man for one last time.
-"That guy…"-Kazumi murmured and a flashback appeared on her mind:
-"Damn brat, I'll sue!"-a voice said with a similar tone as the one from the bald guy.
-"Where's that memory coming from…?"-Kazumi thought as she looked down.
-"Damn. What's with that guy?"-Ryuji mentioned.-"It pissed me off how he wasn't hidin' the fact that he was looking down on us!"
-"Agh. I seriously hate shitty adults like that!"-he said in frustration.
-"Don't let it bother you. We should be going down right?"-Morgana said as Ryuji touched the button of the elevator.
-"Kazumi, is something wrong?"-Ryuji asked as he saw her looking down.
-"It's nothing."-Kazumi said with a reassuring smile.
-"She doesn't eat well so often you know?"-Morgana said.-"I think we should cut out her supply of banana milk from today on."
-"Don't be like that!"-Kazumi said with a whim.
-"I'm with Morgana on this."-Ryuji said, gaining the disapproval look of Kazumi.
When they arrived to their table, Ann looked at them with anger:
-"There you are. What took you so long?"-she said crossing her arms.
-"Why are you so pissy…?"-Ryuji exclaimed surprised by Ann's sudden anger.
-"Sorry. I just had a run-in with a woman earlier."-Ann said apologizing while they sat down.-"She bumped with me and yet, she blamed me for dropping her plate."
-"Not to mention, the waiters looked at me with disapproval. Are we...out of place here?"-Ann asked to her friends uncomfortable.
-"Maybe for them we are, but we're still customers."-Kazumi replied.-"It's not that bad like that guy earlier…"
-"Yeah. Those guys were looking down on us and pushed us out of the way."-Ryuji commented.
The room fell on an awkward silence until Ryuji spoke:
-"Hey, Morgana. You said everyone can have a Palace right?"
-"As long as they have strongly-twisted desires, yes."-Morgana replied.
-"Why the sudden question?"-Kazumi asked to Ryuji.
-"I was thinkin' that we can change the hearts of people like that too."-he replied.
-"You mean you want to continue with the Phantom Thieves!?"-Ann murmured in surprise.
-"Think about it. We dealt with Kamoshida yet people didn't believe it and those who have no option but to deal with him are now grateful."-Ryuji said.
-"You have a point."-Kazumi said in low voice.-"There must be a lot of people like us...alone and with nobody who can help them, not even the police."
-"Kazumi, you too?"-Ann said surprised.-"But, what about your record…?"
-"It's fine. Nobody can possibly know our methods."-Kazumi smiled.
-"I agree."-Ann said getting caught by the enthusiasm of the other two.-"If I hold back and do nothing to help someone, I will be the same as before and I can't allow that to happen."
-"You guys are under my tutelage but if you want to keep this up, we're an organization now."-Morgana said.
-"Let's beat the crap out of those shitty adults and get ourselves recognized!"-Ryuji exclaimed excited, forcing Kazumi to cover his mouth.
-"Not so loud, we're in public!"-she scolded him.
-"Sorry…"-he said as they sat down again.
-"Kazumi, are you fine with keep being our leader?"-Ann asked her.
-"Is that fine?"-Kazumi asked unsecure.-"Last time Morgana said that I'm too kind for it and…"
-"I take that back."-Morgana said.-"It's true that you are heartful but that's also what makes you so strong."
-"Let's not forget that it was that kindness the reason why me and Ann are here."-Ryuji mentioned.-"It's fine, I won't let anyone take advantage of you!"
-"Same. Trust in yourself."-Ann said as she posed her hand on Kazumi's shoulder.
-"Alright! I'll do it!"-Kazumi said excited.
-"It's all settled!"-Ryuji said excited.-"What name are we gonna be called for now on? I put 'Phantom Thieves of Hearts' before but maybe a real name will be cooler!"
-"Leader, this is your call."-Ann said.
-"Me…?"-Kazumi said surprised that they gave her the chance to name again.-"What about... 'Les Blues Rebelles'? It stands for the 'Blue Rebels' in french."
-"Blue Rebels? You're the only blue one actually."-Ryuji said.-"Other than that, why in french?"
-"Arsene Lupin, my persona, is the french symbol of justice made from the shadows. He was a thief who stole from others worse than him and never got caught."-Kazumi said.-"Blue is the color of the night and secrecy just like the job we'll do."
-"What do you think? Isn't it cool?"-Kazumi looked at them with eyes full of expectation.-"Not too bad for the 'Lady of the lame names' huh?"
-"You put a lot of thought on it so I think it's fine."-Ann said to support her.-"Les Blues Rebelles, right?"
-"Sounds unique and gallant, I'm up for it."-Morgana said.-"Make sure you spell it for Ryuji, it'll be embarrassing if he writes it wrong."
-"What? It's just french! I can say it well!"-Ryuji defended himself against Morgana's claims.-"L-Les Blu...Rebelles?"
-"Blues…"-Kazumi corrected.
-"Ok. I wasn't too far."-Ryuji said proud of himself.
-"...I'll help him with the card next time."-Kazumi suggested totally distrusting Ryuji's grammar skills.
-"Well, now that our name is settled, what about our next target?"-Ann asked.
-"We have to hit a big celebrity or a bigwig if we want people to recognize us…"-Ryuji mentioned.
-"There could be tons like that…"-Kazumi said.-"It should be someone we don't have hard feelings about too, otherwise, it will be easy for an investigator to track us since Kamoshida was the first one."
-"An unanimous decision, huh?"-Morgana said.
-"Oh no! Our time for the buffet has ran out!"-Ann said.
-"We can talk more on this tomorrow."-Ryuji mentioned.
November 11th
Sae was sitting there with her arms crossed:
-"So, you're telling me that you changed your victim's mind with the power of a mysterious world and stole his heart just as a talking cat instructed you?"-she reiterated.
-"Believe it if you wish, I'm just telling nothing more than the truth."-Kazumi said.
-"You didn't hit Kamoshida on revenge but for someone else's sake, huh?"-Sae muttered.-"No, even with good intentions, the means of changing someone's mind without consent is a crime."
-"Is it?"-Kazumi asked.-"I heard cops do the impossible to get the truth out of someone and sometimes is the truth they want to hear."
-"What are you getting at?"-Sae said with distrust.
-"What is the truth you want me to confess?"-Kazumi asked her directly.
-"Don't lump me with that kind of people."-Sae said distressed.-"Listen, girl. I'm the one making the questions here."
-"If you keep that truth you're speaking about is fine with me, soon you'll ended up revealing what I want to know the most."-she said.
-"I see…"-Kazumi closed her eyes.-"How shall I continue the story then?"
-"Tell me about your next objective."-she passed her file with the photo of an old man with long gray hair and wearing a yellow yukata.-"The famous artist, Ichiryusai Madarame."
-"How did you get to know his crimes? Why was he targeted?"-Sae asked.
-"Before I get to that point, there's something I'll like to mention about the talking cat."-Kazumi said.-"The deal we made with him to recover his 'human' self, it brought us with a major tool to target not the big ones but also petty criminals with less distorted desires…"
-"It was on a part of the Metaverse called Mementos…"-Kazumi continued the story from there.
Back to the story.
Kazumi went home after the buffet. She and her friends texted for a while about the people who believed on them in that Phantom Aficionado Website and who made such page. As no clues were on them, Kazumi went to sleep as tomorrow was a school day.
She heard the piano and the singing voice again and woke up with a bit of excitement:
-"It must be them waiting to congratulate me for becoming stronger."-she thought happily and when she noticed, she was on a dark room.-"Huh?"
-"What is this place…?"-Kazumi thought as she saw that she was using a black and white striped prisoner suit and she was on a cell.-"No way. If I was in a courtroom then...they declared me guilty!?"
-"There you are!"-a loud girly voice said and the next thing she heard was a staff hitting the cold bars of the jail.-"Rise up, inmate!"
-"Inmate…?"-Kazumi went towards the bars and found two little girls dressed as wanders, with white hair and yellow eyes. They were also wearing patches on opposite eyes, one of them had hair buns and the other a straid.
-"You have advanced quite a bit in your rehabilitation. We have been waiting for you to connect with us."-the one with the straid said with a calm voice.
-"Who are you two…?"-Kazumi asked confused.-"Is this the Velvet Room? What happened with Victor, Will and…?"
-"Don't ask complicated questions now!"-the one with the buns exclaimed.-"You are in the Velvet Room but this is not your heart."
-"Eh?"-Kazumi was even more confused.
-"Our other prisoner has called you from far."-the calmed one said.-"It warns you to watch out for your decisions and requires your help for his salvation."
-"Who's this person you're talking about?"-Kazumi asked.-"Could this be his heart then?"
-"You learn fast, inmate."-the explosive one said.-"Listen, everything that happens here must remain here, understood?"
-"Our time is short here. We shall explain more to you next time."-the calmed one said.
-"Wait! What are your names?"-Kazumi asked.
-"We're Justine."-the calmed one answered.
-"...and Caroline."-the explosive one said before Kazumi saw the room disappear in a blink and found herself on the Velvet Room she knew.
-"My, my. It has taken time to summon you this night."-Igor said with his never-ending smile.-"That aside, I'll like to congratulate you for your success."
-"Thank you…?"-Kazumi said confused as it was weird she ended up in this Velvet Room.
-"Our master is giving you words of appraisal!"-Will said as he slammed his hand on the table.-"Show more enthusiasm, culprit!"
-"Yes, yes…"-Kazumi said scared. That kid was always very explosive, huh?
-"Last time you asked for your rehabilitation and I shall answer you about it."-Igor continued.-"As you are aware, you have a great potential as a Persona-user. This potential is weak now but it can be refined in order to overcome your ruin."
-"Potential?"-she asked.
-"There's lots of means you can increase your strength. Fighting Shadows and gaining experience is one. Fusion, the one we provide you is another."-Igor explained.
-"I see…"-Kazumi thought.-"Therefore, I'll need to fight more Shadows in the Metaverse to strengthen my current Personas or fuse for stronger Personas isn't it?"
-"You adapt very well to your surroundings, culprit."-Victor said in appraisal.
-"This is all possible thanks to our Master's aid."-Will said.-"We also have words for you so open those ears very well."
-"Those people you have made connections with, make sure to spend time with them."-Victor said.-"The stronger your bond, the stronger the support power for the Arcana they represent in your journey will be; allowing you to fuse for stronger Personas."
-"You better use your free time wisely and nothing of slacking off. You're time with them is very limited."-Will said.
-"Got it!"-Kazumi said to them in obedient tone.
-"Your rehabilitation has been going well ever since you stepped up from your past."-Igor said.-"The thought of whether you will be able to accept your Shadow was worrisome, however you exceeded my expectations back then and now as well."
-"I must bless your success for the time being with this gift. It'll be helpful for the rehabilitation you're devoting yourself to."
-"...I have high hopes on you."-Igor said as he looked at Kazumi's head and produced a change in her cognition.
-"I'll make sure to not let you down."-Kazumi said as she felt the change in her heart.
The Fool Arcana received a third star.
*Persona storage increased to 8*
-"The court enters on a break."-Victor said.
-"Return to your world, culprit."-Will said and Kazumi went to sleep.
May 6th.
During the morning class, Ms. Kawakami mentioned about how the teachers have it rough about Kamoshida and gym class has been cancelled for the time being. To make her students pay attention, she talked about how people can have multiple personalities in their subconscious, not related to the multiple personality disorder.
Kazumi heard everything very interested which increased her knowledge.
*Kazumi's knowledge is now Learned*
In the lunchtime, Kazumi was with her friends as, per Ryuji's suggestion, nobody will notice a thing in the hallways since everyone is talking about the Phantom Thieves and he found the Phandom website to be useful to look for targets. However, it was a bit fruitless as people in the survey of the website didn't really have problems that called their attention. Besides, it wasn't of much help to see that other students thought Kamoshida confessed out of pure guilt for Shiho's suicide attempt.
Meanwhile, in the Principal's office, he called the Student Council president inside:
-"Did you wanted to see me, Principal Kobayakawa?"-said the student crossing his arms as he was still ashamed for what happened in the assembly.
-"You saw Kamoshida-kun's state when he confessed, isn't that right?"-the Principal asked.-"It is as if he's personality completely changed. Something is not right here."
-"I'm not sure if I follow."-the student asked with confusion.
-"Rumors specify that some students were meddling in his business."-the Principal said.-"Who are these students perhaps? It's what I want you to research for me so I can handle the situation with the media and the police in a perfect fashion."
-"So, you think these supposed students had anything to do with Mr. Kamoshida's sudden change."-the president closed his eyes thinking about it.-"Sir, are you implying that the rumors of the Phantom Thieves are real?"
-"That's up for you to investigate."-he replied.-"You have been number one in your class from day one. A lot of students and teachers respect you and favor you."
-"I can write a letter of recommendation to any college you want to enter, Makoto Nijima."-the Principal said with a confident smile.-"It sure must come in your blood, as your sister who is still young achieved a place in the public prosecutors office."
-"Wouldn't it be a shame if something disappointing happened and your sister was made aware of it?"-he said with the same smile. The Principal was definitely threatening the distinguished student with his future.
-"I understand."-he replied with a defeated expression.-"I'll start looking at once if you allow me."
-"That's what I was going to suggest."-the Principal said and Makoto retired respectfully.
The principal contacted someone telling them how their investigation was going to start. Meanwhile, Makoto already had on his target look a couple of suspects:
-"Those girls…"-he murmured as he remembered Ann and Kazumi's claims in the assembly.-"They might be my first lead to this."
After school, Kazumi was checking her messages as Ryuji mentioned that the police came to school to ask the teachers. When she pull up her bag, Mishima approached to her:
-"Hey, Asaka-san."-he said a bit nervous but holding a kind of excitement.-"Have you seen the Phantom Aficionado Website?"
-"I have heard of it these days, why?"-Kazumi asked confused.
-"You see, I was the one who started it!"-he said releasing his excitement.-"What do you think?"
-"Why do you ask for my opinion?"-Kazumi asked.-"Are you interested on the Phantom Thieves by any chance?"
-"To be honest…"-Mishima approached to her invading her private space. As Kazumi was still working on her shyness to guys, she felt extremely uncomfortable.-"I know you guys are the Phantom Thieves."-he whispered to her ear.
-"R-Really?"-Kazumi asked nervous.-"Can you please let me go now?"
-"Oh sorry, I invaded your private space."-he said bushing embarrassed.-"Are you...alright?"-he asked as he saw her keeping a bit of a distance from him.
-"P-Perfectly fine. Just don't do that again."-Kazumi said.
-"Is it true?"-Mishima wanted to confirm.-"Wait. If that was the case, I should keep it a secret then."
-"I feel like you're going ahead of yourself…"-Kazumi murmured.
-"You know, Kamoshida used me and I also did bad things to you guys."-Mishima said while looking down.-"I'm sure there's more adults outside just as evil as him. I know the Phantom Thieves will take them down too but…"
-"Please let me know if I can do something to help!"-Mishima took her hands suddenly, making her flustered.-"This is not much but I really want to apologize with you for everything…"
-"That's great, but…"-Kazumi said trying to not hit Mishima for invading her personal space for the second time in a row.
-"You guys are not going to end this after one target right?"-Mishima said.-"People have high expectations for you and I also implemented the survey so they can talk about their problems and show their support."
-"I'll really like to support the acts of justice of the Phantom Thieves, can I please?"-he insisted with a shiny look in his eyes.
-"I got it, now can you please get off me!?"-Kazumi exclaimed not holding her nerves anymore.
-"Shot, sorry."-Mishima said blushing.-"I made you feel uncomfortable...but I'm not a creep ok?"
-"It's not your fault, Mishima-kun."-Kazumi tried to smile gently.-"I'm glad you decided to support the right side…"
-"Thank you, Asaka-san."-Mishima smiled.
-"I am thou. Thou art I.
Thou has acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Moon Persona,
I have obtained the winds of blessing
That shall lead to freedom and new power."-a tarot card with the name of "The Moon" was created in Kazumi's heart and got its first star.
*Mishima's support bonus unlocked*
-"See you around!"-Mishima said as he went out of the classroom. Kazumi sighed deeply. She had to do something with that shyness of hers.
-"What a cutie."-Ryuji said and she found her friends right in front of her.-"You're still shy with new people."
-"That response is completely different from what you were saying before we get in."-Ann sighed.-"You were this close to jump in and attack Mishima-kun. Are you a moron?"
-"Don't call me a moron! I know that Kazumi was feeling really uncomfortable!"-Ryuji excused himself.
-"You two were hearing everything this whole time?"-Kazumi asked.
-"Sorry. It felt awkward just to come in while he was telling you that."-Ann apologized.-"So, he was the one who created the website…"
-"Doesn't that means he knows your identities?"-Morgana expressed worried.
-"Seems like it…"-Kazumi murmured to him.
-"It should be fine. He was playing it cool anyway."-Ann said.
-"I guess we should have a chat about this later."-Ryuji said with a serious expression on his face.
-"...Ryuji-kun, please don't hit my new friend."-Kazumi said in worry.
-"What? Hey, no!"-Ryuji said flustered.-"I'm not gonna punch anybody, ok? You girls are taking it too serious."
-"I'll say though, a forum where people post their problems may seem incredibly useful."-Morgana said.-"No, actually we can start making it right now!"
-"Actually we can't."-Kazumi said immediately.
-"Why not?"-Ryuji asked and he thought it for a few seconds.-"OH CRAP!"
-"What's with you!?"-Ann exclaimed surprised by his sudden exclamation.
-"Don't we have exams coming up!?"-Ryuji said.
-"We do. That's why I said it."-Kazumi said.
-"Judging for your expression, I think you're going to struggle this time around too huh?"-Ann said.
-"What's with that? You are only good at English!"-Ryuji said.
-"I rather that than being bad at every subject!"-Ann said.
-"Anyways, we should focus on the exams for now."-Kazumi said.-"We can look for a new target after the police ends their investigation here so no more suspicious meetings at school for now on."
-"Yes…"-Ann and Ryuji said with the diligence of soldiers.
After this meeting, Kazumi went to the underground mall of Shibuya to buy some nutrients for her plant. The flower shop owner told her that they were looking for part-timers and she seemed kind enough to work with plants. Kazumi accepted the job and learnt how to arrange flowers which made her look more considerate.
*Kazumi's kindness is now Considerate*
Before she went home, she saw the same politician of the other day giving a speech but just as the last time, nobody was paying attention to him:
-"There has been a lot of accidents we can't ignore any longer. Can someone deny it!?"-the man said although the few people who were hearing his speech wasn't paying attention.-"We have to discover the truth of these incidents that are in the mouths of everyone these days!"
-"He makes a good point…"-Kazumi murmured towards Morgana.-"Why does nobody wants to change this situation when so many lives are in risk?"
-"Oh, young girl. You seem to be listening to what I have to say."-the man said to her.-"Are you perhaps interested in politics?"
-"I was just passing by…"-Kazumi said a bit ashamed.-"But, I found interesting what you were saying earlier."
-"Thank you."-he said as he scratched his neck embarrassed for being appraised by a young girl as Kazumi.-"Are you student? You shouldn't be wasting your time on the streets like this. I recommend you to take out the most of your free time in order to be efficient and grow into a capable woman."
-"I will thank you."-she said with a smile as she left.-"I hope I can see one of your speeches again."
-"Good night."-the man said and sighed.-"I wish more young people will be that interested in politics and their future."
Morgana came out of Kazumi's bag:
-"Hey, Kazumi. What do you think of that politician?"-Morgana asked.
-"Why do you ask?"-she replied.
-"I was thinking that since you need to negotiate with Shadows to add them to your mask, maybe we should get a shortcut."-Morgana said.
-"Shortcut?"-she asked confused.
-"You didn't noticed it but that politician influenced you to hear him somehow. If you learn from him how to give speeches, we could use that on avantage to get what we want from Shadows when we surround them!"
-"I see what you're getting at! But, he did say I was wasting my time…"-she said.-"He won't accept so lightly to teach me so I'll have to gain my place. Any ideas?"
-"Well, if he asked you to work for him, how will you demonstrate your skills?"-Morgana asked.
-"In a place where he usually is present and I'm working?"-she asked.
-"Exactly! We'll have to follow him for that."-Morgana said.-"Don't rush yourself for now, it's time to sleep."
-"You're right…"-Kazumi said tired.
She got home and fed her plant with nutrients, increasing her kindness. Morgana said that she looked more considerate after working on the flower shop. This made Kazumi think that Ann would open up to her.
May 7th.
After a long class day, the rebels gathered in the rooftop at Kazumi's refusal:
-"What did I said about secret meetings in school yesterday?"-she said to Ryuji.
-"Don't worry about it. Nobody comes here anyways."-Ryuji reassured her with a smile.
-"Did you find anything then?"-Ann asked while she located her hands on her hips.
-"Uhm...Not really."-Ryuji said nervous and Kazumi face palmed.
-"Ryuji-kun, we don't have the time to gather like this. Remember that people are still over us about Kamoshida."-she said which made Ryuji feel like an idiot.
-"Alright. Alright. I'm sorry if it is a bother to deal with me."-he said angry.-"I was just thinking that three heads work better than one but you girls are just focused in other things."
-"Don't say it like we don't care!"-Ann said to him. The door was opened and a new figure appeared; it was the council president.
-"Oh…!"-Ann expressed with surprise.
-"This place is off limits, you know that right?"-he said as he looked at Kazumi and Ryuji.
-"We will go when we finish talking."-Ryuji said with a bitter expression at him.-"Got a problem with that, Mr. President?"
-"The troublemaker, the girl of the rumors and the infamous transfer student. Interesting combination."-Makoto said and he walked straight towards Kazumi which made her shy.
-"Way to start a conversation."-Ann said offended.
-"Isn't this guy the one who is always studying on the library?"-she thought for herself.-"He's too...close."
-"Kazumi Asaka, isn't it?"-he asked her and she nodded in hurry.-"Mr. Kamoshida confessed that he made a student leak your record. For someone new, you grasped his attention very fast."
-"Do you hate him for that?"-he asked her.
-"W-Well...I…"-Kazumi was speechless as she felt cornered by him.
-"What's the matter? Did a cat bite your tongue?"-he asked as he frowned his eyebrows.
-"Give her a rest."-Ryuji butt in to help her.-"She's just an upstanding student."
-"I didn't ask for opinion, Sakamoto"-Makoto replied coldly at Ryuji which pissed him off.
-"And I say to give her a rest!"-he exclaimed as he grasped Makoto's shoulder to push him back.
-"Are you looking for a fight?"-Makoto asked angry.-"I won't hold back just because you're a kohai."
-"Shut the hell up!"-Ryuji exclaimed.-"I can make you kiss the floor in seconds!"
-"Stop it!"-Ann exclaimed as she went to Kazumi's side. The girl was still shaking up for the situation.-"You're making her uncomfortable."
-"Is that so?"-Makoto said recovering his cool.-"Not like I care."
-"No, you…!"-Ryuji was going to hit him for his sudden comment when Makoto reacted and grasped his fist just to hold his arm on his back forcefully.-"GAH!"
-"Ryuji-kun!"-Kazumi said worried.
-"What was that about making me kiss the floor?"-Makoto asked with a cocky attitude.-"Listen, I just need information about that weird calling card and what happened to Mr. Kamoshida."
-"I have to do something…!"-Kazumi thought as she frowned her fist.
-"We don't know anything."-Ann said.-"Still, what would you be interested in tactless things like that, Nijima-senpai?"
-"I have my own opinions about it, not like it matters."-Makoto said.
-"Let me go, you bastard!"-Ryuji said as he tried to release himself but that only hurted him more.
-"Fine."-Makoto let go off his arm. Kazumi grasped Ryuji from the shoulders in case he tried to do something risky like that again.
-"Are we done talking here? We can't finish our conversation otherwise."-Ann said with a serious expression.
Makoto looked at the rebels with frustration:
-"At least try to understand that I'm not doing this for enjoyment. I can't believe they forced me to search on this horseplay."
-"Horseplay!?"-Ann was offended. The issue with Kamoshida was almost a tragedy for a guy like the school council president to call it a simple childish conflict.
-"Anyways, it's been decided that this place will be closed off due to the accident."-Makoto said as he turned back.-"Some students come here after all. I'll leave it be for today."-and he left.
-"What was all that about!?"-Ann exclaimed furious.
-"He's into us."-Morgana said as he slid out from Kazumi's bag.
-"This is why I suggested not to gather at school for now…"-Kazumi said and turned towards Ryuji.-"Are you alright?"
-"That was nothing. He just caught me off guard."-the boy replied as he was massaging his elbow.
-"...I'm sorry. I really got flustered and did nothing."-Kazumi apologized to everyone.-"Sorry, Ryuji-kun. I shouted at you earlier but you still stood up for me..."
-"Nah. Don't worry about it."-Ryuji said without looking at her.-"I will be patient then."
-"Kazumi, you should be careful."-Ann advised her.-"He surely thinks that you're suspicious more than any of us."
-"Yes."-Kazumi nodded.
-"Tch. That guy is a real pain in the ass…"-Ryuji clenched his teeth.
-"That reminds me. Study hard, specially you, Ryuji."-Morgana said.-"There will be times when we need the brains in Palaces. Everything you do in real life has an impact on your abilities in the Metaverse."
-"Well, study will be easier if we just think of it as a way to train us as Phantom Thieves…"-Ann said.
-"I guess you got a point."-Ryuji said disappointed.-"But man, I was so pumped up to start helpin' people and we just have to hold back for now."
-"In that case, there's something we can do."-Morgana said.-"It involves the mission you guys promised to help me with."
-"Oh? You had leads to your memories?"-Kazumi asked interested.-"I guess we can do that. It won't drive any suspicions to us."
-"That settled, follow me."-Morgana said as he exited the school rooftop.
After a walk, they ended up in the subway station where Morgana asked Ryuji to look for targets in the Phandom website:
-"I say it before, there's no big hits here."-the boy complained.
-"No need for that. We can start with a small target, just pick a name."-Morgana said.
-"Let me see…"-both Ryuji and Ann looked for targets and Ann found one.
-"What about this one?"-Ann proceeded to read the petition.-" 'I don't know what to do about my ex-boyfriend that it's stalking me. His name is Natsuhiko Nakanohara.' "
-"It also says he's a teller at City Hall."-Ann also mentioned.
-"A government worker's stalking someone?"-Ryuji said.
-"That should be a suitable target."-Morgana said.-"Now, get the MetaNav ready."
-"Are we going to jump into a Palace right now?"-Kazumi said surprised.-"What about the preparations?"
-"And the unanimous decision?"-Ann said.
-"Relax, ladies."-Morgana said.-"It doesn't require that much effort to get the treasure of someone like that."
-"Fine by me! I'm craving for some action!"-Ryuji said excited.
-"What do you think, Kazumi?"-Ann asked her.
-"Well, if Morgana says that it will be fine…"-Kazumi said.-"Let's do it."
-"Alright. I got the name ready, what about the location?"-Ryuji said.
-"No need for it, just say exactly what I'm going to say."-Morgana said.-"The keyword is Mementos."
-"Me-men-tos, wasn't it?"-Ryuji spelled and the space distorted around the teens.
All the people going back and forth in the station suddenly disappeared:
-"Everyone disappeared!?"-Ann exclaimed surprised.-"Why do I feel like walking in the air…?"
-"Is this that Nakanohara guy's Palace!?"-Ryuji asked.
-"Close enough. I'll explain it downstairs, the Shadows lurk in the Underground."-Morgana said.-"I don't understand why. They must be drawn to something on the deep underground."
They followed Morgana to the landing area where the space was totally changed. An eerie pink atmosphere, blood sliding down on the walls, and everything was darkened. That was the said 'Mementos':
-"Our clothes changed!?"-Ryuji said when he noticed it.-"The Shadows know we are here, isn't it?"
-"Since the very beginning."-Morgana, with his cartoony appearance, said.
-"They are not coming."-Kazumi said.
-"I have checked this place a lot of times, they don't get to this floor."-Morgana said.
-"Alright. It's time for explanations. What is this place exactly?"-Ann asked.
-"Mementos is everyone's Palace!"-Mona said.
-"What do you mean 'everyone's'...?"-Skull asked.
-"The normal Palaces are formed by the extremely twisted desires of people."-Morgana said.-"Mementos, however, is the collection of all the individual's unconscious. That's why it is everyone's palace."
-"So, everyone's mind is here even if they are complete strangers?"-Skull asked.
-"Exactly. It works just like the public transport while Palaces are more like someone's own car."-he explained.
-"So, what you're saying is…"-Panther tried to summarize.-"We can change the hearts of anyone even if they don't have a Palace?"
-"Yep. It works just like the Shadow of Shiho Suzui we found in Kamoshida's palace."-Morgana mentioned while looking at Kazumi.-"Although to be honest, I have never seen a Shadow escape from this Palace before."
-"Shiho's Shadow…"-Panther murmured.
-"Ok...so how are we gonna move around?"-Skull asked.-"This place looks huge and we won't get anywhere by walking."
-"It looks like my time has come."-Morgana said with a confident grin on his face as he jumped in front of them.
-"Morgana?"-Ace asked confused. Morgana stretched his paws counter clockwise and made a pose compressing his left paw towards his abdomen and the right one extended.
-"Morgana...Henshin!"-he said with a dramatic pause and made a jump in the air transforming into a bus with his pattern colors.
-"Come now, Panther and Ace. Ladies, first."-Morgana said as a bus.
-"A car…!?"-Panther said in shock.
-"No way…"-Skull said surprised.
-"For some reason, I was expecting you to transform into a man with a bug mask…"-Ace murmured.
-"Well, actually it is a spread belief among people that cats transform into buses."-Morgana explained.-"It's nothing assimilar from when you guys change your clothes. That's how your cognition of being a rebel acts."
-"...and you can teleport to another world between two vehicles in movement…?"-Ace said in disbelief.
-"Why didn't you do this on the castle!?"-Skull asked.
-"No way. It was too cramped and no way this fits into a chandelier."-Morgana excused.
-"Hey, Skull! Ladies first!"-Panther exclaimed as she went after Skull inside Morgana.
-"P-Panther, please be gentle!"-Morgana sounded flustered as he felt them inside.
-"By the way, do you drive yourself?"-Ace asked as she approached to Morgana-bus.
-"Duh. Of course not, someone has to drive me, I'm a car!"-Morgana said.
-"For real!?"-Skull said already inside.
-"Ace, do you know how to drive?"-Panther asked.
-"Well, I learnt with my brother's videogames…"-she replied.
-"It makes me worry but I don't really have that experience so…"-Panther said.
-"That should be fine. As long as Ace sees herself as a skilled driver, the cognition will move on her favor."-Morgana said.
-"I'll try it then."-Ace went to the driver's seat while Skull sat on the copilot's seat.
-"I'll be your co-pilot."-he said with a smile.
-"I'm counting on you."-Ace said.-"Where is the key to your engine?"-she asked Morgana.
-"Key? You don't need it. Just move the switch down."-he said and Ace did it with a switch in front.-"That tickles, a little bit down…"
-"Here…?"-Ace pulled a switch lower than the previous one and the bus started to vibrate.
-"Yes, there. It feels soooo good."-Morgana purred.
-"Is that purrin', I hear? What a creepy-ass car!"-Skull said freaked out.
-"Hey! Don't underestimate my meowtary engine."-Morgana said.
-"How do we find Nakanohara's shadow now?"-Panther asked.
-"The Nav must have pinpointed his location. I can feel it close by but this dungeon is a labyrinth and it changes everyday."-Morgana said.-"Therefore, we would've to drive around to find it."
-"That sucks…"-Skull said.
-"It's fine. It looks like it is closeby."-Ace said as she checked the Nav that showed an exclamation point close to the symbol that represented them in the map.-"Let's go!".
Ace pressed the acceleration lever and drove Mona-bus towards a creepy portal that distorted the railways. That was the distortion of Nakanohara's heart:
-"Are we ready to go, leader?"-Morgana asked.
-"Here we go."-Ace said as she pressed the lever to make Mona-bus jump inside the portal.
Take your time.