Chapter 17: The Five of Us
June 9th
The three rebels and Morgana went to Suidobashi Dome Town and got on the hardcore rides, leaving Morgana inside the bag behind. When the sunset was coming, they decided to take a break in one of the tables:
-"Agh...I'm not feeling so good…"- Ryuji complained.-"I'll probably puke in this moment…"
-"My head is spinning…"-Kazumi said as she rested on the table.
-"That's why I was against it."- Morgana scolded them.
-"Dude...It's not fair. I can't believe you used your cathood for a situation like this…"- Ryuji replied to him.
-"We can come back all together when Morgana becomes a human. Oh, let's invite Yusuke-kun as well!"- Kazumi suggested.
-"Yes, there's no way he ain't escaping next time…"- Ryuji said with a smile.
-"Then so be it…"- Morgana said feeling challenged.
-"Anyways, aren't you guys feeling hungry? How about some pancakes?"- Ann said fresh as lettuce.
-"Nah. Let's head home. You guys have something to do tomorrow."-Morgana said and the others agreed to their suggestion just to not end up puking in the train.
At night, Kazumi arrived at LeBlanc and decided to sleep early for tomorrow's social studies trip.
June 10th
It was the afternoon. The students from Shujin Academy who where in the TV Station were sitting as the public present in a talk show:
-"Mr. Akechi is coming on!"-the host of the show said and Goro Akechi entered in scene. The ones who knew about him, his female fans, started to fangirl all over his entrance.
-"Ain't that the guy we met yesterday!?"- Ryuji said surprised.
-"He really was a celebrity it seems…"- Kazumi said impressed by the reaction of the female public.
The cameraman counted the seconds to start the show and the interview was on live:
-"And now, with our 'Hottest Meet-and-Greet' segment of our show."- the female announcer said.-"After his last visit was so well received, we decided to bring back this fine gentleman today."
-"The High School Prince Detective, Goro Akechi!"-to his introduction, the fans started to clap and scream in order to show their support.
-"Hello there."- he said with his charming smile.
-"It's so nice you are coming with us again. Your popularity is just stunning."- said the male announcer.-"So, do you have any case working on right now?"
-"I do, yes. It is related to the scandal about the great artist Madarame."- Akechi replied.
-"There it is! It seems like this phantom thief excitement has caught you too, Akechi-kun!"- the announcer said.-"So, what do you think about these justice-oriented Phantom Thieves?"
-"If they truly are heroes of justice, I sincerely hope they exist!"- Akechi said enthusiastically.
-"Oh, so you don't deny the possibility that they exist!"- the announcer said.
-"I don't seem like it but, sometimes I wish Santa Claus existed."- he said with still the same enthusiasm; which caused certain humor on the public.-"Although it he did, I'll have to arrest him for breaking and entering."
-"..."- Ryuji didn't see the fun of his comment.
-"As for these Phantom Thieves, I think they should be treated in a court law."- he said with a sharp and serious look. The present rebels were actually caught off guard for that declaration.
-"Are they committing actual crimes?"- the announcer asked.-"Certain people even think they are helping their victims to abandon their evil ways."
-"What Madarame did was a terrible crime."- Akechi said still serious.-"However, what they did was take justice by their own hands by judging him. It is far from justice."
-"More importantly, you should never forcefully change a person's heart."- he said.
-"You have a point. These people are calling themselves the Phantom Thieves after all."- the announcer said after thinking about it.
-"Of course, little charming prince thinks like that. He'll never know what it is to not being able to depend on the adults."- Ryuji thought for himself while grinning his teeth.
-"Amazing as always, Akechi-kun!"- the announcer said.-"I have to say your deductions are a great part of your charm!"
-"I'll admit it though, I'll be embarrassed if the phantom thieves don't really exist."- he said with a nervous smile.-"If that were the case, I'll summarize it in a report for a school project."
-"Now then, let's ask the students about the same age as Akechi-kun about the Phantom Thieves!"- the female announcer said.
-"First, press your button now if you think the Phantom Thieves exist!"-she said as the pointed at the buttons that were given to them at the beginning of the show.
-"Of course they do!"-Ryuji murmured as he pressed 'yes' on the controller just as the girls did.
-"About 30% or so!"- the male announcer said after the score came out.-"What do you think, Akechi-kun?"
-"That's higher than I expected."- he said surprised.-"Then, let's ask about what they think about the Phantom Thieves actions."
The female announcer took a microphone and went out of the stage towards the public, her gaze fixed towards Kazumi who was the most normal looking out of her friends on the same line:
-"Alright, let's ask this student here."- she said as she walked next to her.-"Hypothetically speaking, what are your thoughts on the Phantom Thieves if they were real?"
-"Eh? Well...I think they are more effective than the police officers."- Kazumi replied nervous which cause the others to laugh at her answer, including Akechi.
-"This completely goes against your opinion of them being tried by law, Akechi-kun."-the male announcer said.
-"Indeed. It's rather intriguing to hear such acknowledgment."-he replied.-"I have one more question for the pretty lady: If someone, let's say your friend next to you had a sudden change of heart...Wouldn't you think it was by the act of the Phantom Thieves?"
-"That can't be. They only target criminals."- Kazumi said with a serious tone.
-"I see. But how can you be so sure?"- Akechi asked.-"Whether the thieves' actions are good or not, I feel like there's a more important issue at hand."
-"Hmm? What do you mean?"- the male announcer asked as the female one went back to her seat.
-"The matter on how they change people's hearts."- he said.-"If they actually possess such ability...It could be used for more than extracting confessions."
-"It could be that what it seems to be ordinary crimes are perpetrated by these methods."- he added.
-"You know what, you're absolutely right."- the male announcer agreed.
-"Oh, please don't misunderstand. This is all hypothetical and if such power really exists."- Akechi said.-"Either way though, this can't be ignored."
-"The existence of the Phantom Thieves could be nothing but a threat to our everyday's lives"- the detective added with a sense of security.-"To be honest, I am already working with the police for this kind of case."
His words received appraisal from the public. Meanwhile, Ryuji and Ann were feeling irritated and doubtful of his words. Kazumi though, she was actually watching him with a sense of conviction: The Prince Detective had no idea how insignificant were his arguments against the Phantom Thief in front of him.
After the interview ended, the group moved out of the set. Behind scenes, Ann stopped:
-"It kinda seemed like what he was saying might be right…"- she murmured to the surprise of Kazumi.
-"He made it seem like we're the baddies. I don't like it."- Ryuji murmured irritated.
-"But that stuff about the police...could it be real?"- Ann said.
-"Earth to Ann!"- Kazumi said as she touched her shoulder.-"Don't mind him."
-"Exactly, he can say whatever he wants. But the justice of it all is something we can decide by ourselves as the only ones who had seen that world."- Morgana said.
-"This is actually exciting though…"- Kazumi said with a smile.-"Every Phantom Thief will always have someone who doesn't agree with their justice."
-"Ahaha, are you talking like he's our rival? That sounds so silly."- Ryuji said.
-"Why not? He has control over the media."- Kazumi said.-"If more people ignore the existence of Les Blues Rebelles because of Akechi-kun, we will never get to the ends of Mementos."
-"Oh shit, you're right."- Ryuji said surprised.
-"Agh. I can't hold it anymore. I'm going to take a leak, I'll be right back."-the blonde boy said as he left.
-"Really?"- Ann said in disbelief.-"I told him to go before the show…"
-"I'll wait for him. You can go ahead."- Kazumi suggested to her.
-"Sure. I'll go."- she said and left too.
-"There you are…"- Kazumi heard the voice of someone calling her. It was the Prince Detective in person.-"I wanted to thank you in person, Asaka, was it?"
-"Yes."- Kazumi turned around to see him.-"Why?"
-"Well, to paraphrase Hegel, advancement cannot occur without both thesis and antithesis."- he explained but saw that she was clueless to what he just said.-"Oh sorry, I wanted to say that the conversation we had earlier was quite meaningful."
-"There are very few people around me that are as willing to speak their thoughts freely as you."- he said with a smile.-"Adults are only interested in using the young, while they simply do as the adults say."
-"..."- that last sentence reminded Kazumi to her father saying: "For now on, you should act as you truly are; an average."
-"I'm impressed that we agree on that."- Kazumi said with a sad smile.-"Are there any reasons why you are willing to side with the same adults that are making use of you?"
-"I do have my reasons, yes. But simply passing over the justice system to change the hearts of whoever you want is iffy."- he said.-"I certainly say that the Phantom Thieves are truly an unknown to me to be trusted just yet."
-"That is fair."- Kazumi said.
-"Right now, I think our discussions are quite fruitful. Will you mind if we can talk like this again sometime?"- Akechi said.
-"If the opportunity arises…"- Kazumi replied.
-"Thank you. It makes me glad to hear that."- Akechi said.-"The students of Shujin are truly interesting. I look forward to see you again, Asaka."
-"Same as you."- Kazumi replied as they said goodbye to each other.
-"...Talk about a problematic guy to get involved with."- Morgana said to her.-"But, we can probably learn about this justice of his more though."
-"Right?"- Kazumi said.
-"We share the same dislike for the adults but we pursuit it differently. He truly is our rival."- Kazumi thought for herself. That was a connection that they both had.
-"I am thou, thou art I.
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
that breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Justice persona,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that
shall lead to freedom and new power."- from her bond with Goro Akechi, a new Arcana card, Justice, appeared. It gained the first star before vanishing on her chest.
-"Kazumi! Sorry for the wait!"- Ryuji came running.
-"That was fast."- Kazumi said.-"Let's go. Ann went ahead."
-"Yeah."- he said following her with a bit of suspicion.
-"Hey, was that Akechi you were talking to earlier?"- Ryuji asked.-"I can't stand that high and mighty attitude he has..! It makes me sick just to share the same air as him."
-"It's fine. He really said nothing important."- Kazumi said to him.
-"So, when is he going to invite you for a chat, Kazumi?"- Morgana interrupted the conversation to tease Ryuji.
-"Morgana!"- she exclaimed embarrassed as she pushed his head inside.-"Do you always have to be teasing me like that?"
-"Sorry, Ryuji-kun. That's getting kind of old…"- Kazumi said to him.
-"..."- Ryuji said nothing back.-"I don't mind at all. If you're really looking for that kind of thing, just make sure they won't hurt you in the end."
-"...Hey!"- Kazumi didn't want to upset him and came up with an idea.-"Why don't we go for something to eat? The two of us! Let's go to Ogikubo!"
-"Well! Now you have my interest!"- Ryuji said with his enthusiasm back.
After they went together with Ann to the train station, they separated in Shibuya and went to Ogikubo for ramen. In high hopes, Ryuji told her that he finally found a place to train together and they should visit it sometime.
She then went to work part-time at night at the Beef Bowl restaurant.
*Kazumi's proficiency increases by 2*
June 11th
During lunchtime, Kazumi was drinking her usual banana milk in the courtyard being with her friends when suddenly:
-"Agh! That guy Akechi seriously pisses me off!"- Ryuji exclaimed as he punched one of the vending machines.-"What does he know!?"
-"Calm down. If you're too loud, we'll get in trouble."- Ann said as she started to eat some chips.
-"Who cares? Everyone is starting to talk about this stuff anyways!"- Ryuji mentioned.
-"That doesn't matter. The President can be spying on us at anytime, remember?"- Kazumi said to him.
-"You had to remind me of that other asshole…"- Ryuji murmured in rage.
-"It is really worrying though…"- Morgana meowed inside Kazumi's bag.-"If the police it's involved, it might get more serious than before…"
-"Yeah…"- Ann said upset.
Kazumi saw her friends down and tried to cheer them up:
-"Don't give up so easily!"- she said.-"We are the only ones who can do it!"
-"If you guys are going to throw that towel then…!"-before she continued, she saw Makoto coming to them.
-"What's the matter? You were giving quite a speech here."- he said with his habitual tone.
-"Are you snoopin' on us again?"- Ryuji said standing up mad.-"We said it before, we know nothin'."
-"Why do you think I am here to question you?"- Makoto asked.-"Could it be that you're hiding something?"
-"My ears are always open to the worries of my peers, you know."- he said showing off a relaxed face. This really made Ann angry.
-"Wow. You really are that hungry for a letter of recommendation."- Ann said to him.-"Nobody will take on your annoying job if they weren't."
-"What's that supposed to mean, Takamaki?"- he asked her.
-"You are the student council president, right?"- Ann asked as she confront him closer.-"Wouldn't you have known about Kamoshida?"
-"I did not. I honestly saw him as a decent teacher until that day…"-he said looking down.
-"Oh. But you're a good council president that always takes the teacher's side, right?"- Ann said as she crossed her arms and turned around.-"Like a good teacher's pet."
-"You tell him, Ann!"- Ryuji said with a smirk.
-"Then, how about you?"- Makoto said serious.-"You were her closer friend. What did you do for Suzui then, Takamaki?"
-"There wasn't any way to help! I couldn't do anything by myself for her!"- Ann shout at him.
-"Alright. That's enough!"- Kazumi felt she had to interfere.-"There's no need to cross those borders, president."
-"...I get it. No need to shout."-he said as he took his face with remorse.
-"If these Phantom Thieves are helpin' out people, I'll certainly root for them."- Ryuji said to him.-"They do way more than someone I know."
-"You as well?"- Makoto asked.-"Agh. Just don't skip classes, the mandatory essay contest is today."-he said before leaving.
-"Are you alright, Ann?"- Kazumi asked her friend and she nodded.
-"I take back my doubts about doing the right thing."-Ann said.-"I'd be ashamed to let it end now…"
-"Hell yeah. It's about we find our next target too."- Ryuji said determined.-"By the way, what's that...essay contest thing?"
-"That? Remember that I was helping the president with some pamphlets?"- Kazumi said and pointed at one right in front of them.-"They are doing a contest to bring a student from each class to a conference of the Health Service Bureau in St Luke's International Hospital."
-"All that job just to attend to a boring political meeting? I think I'll pass."- Ryuji said irritated.
-"Act like a normal student and afront it as such."- Morgana said.-"It's not our main priority but who knows if this will be an opportunity to find some kind of target within the government?"
-"Yes, a target…"- Ann said looking at Kazumi.-"What do you think?"
-"...I...I am curious actually."- she said.-"There's something I was wondering about the health service…"
-"Kazumi…"-Morgana said worried remembering about the 'Dr. Hiromi' he once heard from her conversations with Takeo.
Ann and Ryuji looked at each other and thought that it was the moment to act on their plan:
-"Hey, I received a call from Yusuke earlier."- Ryuji said.-"It seems he wants to gather with us in Shibuya later."
-"Are you coming, Kazumi?"- Ann mentioned.-"I was thinking about something and we should discuss it together."
-"Eh? Sure."- Kazumi agreed to go. Just like they wanted.
After that, the homeroom classes started and Kawakami asked the class to write a 400 words essay about their opinions on the health system:
-"Our opinions…"- Kazumi thought as she looked at the blank paper. Her mind initially triggered the painful memories of her life ever since her little brother, Kazuya, entered to the hospital. She couldn't stop thinking about what kind of careless and apathetic actions Haruka Furukawa did to her brother and other patients.
-"Perhaps if the health services were more concerned about checking the background of the staff in hospitals…"- she said as she started to write about it.-"Not only that but also inspire trust to the patients…"
All of Kazumi's thoughts about what they could've done to avoid that woman to hurt his brother were written in that paper until she wrote a conclusion. Kawakami collected the papers with low enthusiasm, as she saw every paper with less arguments than the other, until she arrived to Kazumi's seat and saw how hers showed a brilliant motivation.
After school, Kazumi went with her friends to Shibuya where they gathered with Yusuke in the Station Square. He was wearing summer clothes and had a luggage along with 'Sayuri's painting covered with him:
-"The comments are coming in an alarming rate. However, the negative ones seem to be the prominent ones."- Yusuke said.
-"It's probably cause of Akechi. TV's got some crazy sway."- Ryuji explained upset.
-"He's free to deny our actions but being cursed by his presence is another thing entirely."- Yusuke replied sharing the same feeling.
-"Just when people started to believe in us too…"- Ann said.
-"It will be fine. We just need to get a next target."- Kazumi said.-"By the way, what's with the luggage?"
-"This? I'm moving out of the school dorms."-Yusuke said with a relaxed expression.-"They were not only filthy but noisy as well...I can't do any art being there."
-"What are you gonna do then? You can't go back to that shack right?"- Ryuji said.
-"I was planning on staying in Takamaki-san- Ann's house."-he said very secure.-"I even prepared a thank you gift, I hope it is of your parent's liking."
-"WHAT!? There's no way that's gonna happen."- Ann cut him off totally.
-"Impossible…"- Yusuke said in shock.
-"You're the impossible one…"- Ryuji added.-"Do you really think someone will leave you live in the same house as their daughter?"
-"But I spent all my money in these delectable Japanese sweets…"- Yusuke said.
-"I don't think that's the issue right now."- Ann said.-"What are we gonna do with him?"
-"What about Ryuji-kun's place?"- Kazumi asked.
-"No way. It's too crammed there as it is."- he denied.
-"Well, since Yusuke is an important part of the team...I'll lend a hand."- Morgana said.-"You can stay in our place! It's a bit dusty but you'll have space to sleep."
-"Eh!? W-Wait...That's…!"- Kazumi said shocked.
-"Why are you calling the shots?"- Ryuji asked annoyed to Morgana.
-"Besides, don't you two live in a cafe? I was wondering for quite a while."- Ann mentioned.
-"Actually, there will be no problem if Yusuke-kun stays in my room…"- Kazumi said to the shock of all of them.-"That is, if we can convince my guardian that he doesn't have interest in me."
-"...Gosh. You got me scared right there."- Ann said.-"It doesn't sound like a bad idea. Hey, Yongen isn't too far right?"
-"It's not and the cafe is a minute away from the station."- Morgana said.
-"Then, let's go right now! We can have a party to celebrate Madarame's change of heart."- Ann suggested happily and the other guys knew what she was pretending.
-"Oh right. We can celebrate a welcome party for Yusuke as well!"- Ryuji said.
-"Alright! It's decided!"- Ann said with conviction as she and Ryuji went ahead.
-"Wait...This is too sudden!"- Kazumi said nervous. Good thing she asked Becky to clean her room before.
-"Sorry to cause you trouble, Kazumi-san."- Yusuke said as he took his luggage.-"I don't mind sleeping on a sofa or in a futon as long as I don't unsettle you."
-"Thanks for the thought, Yusuke-kun…"-she said smiling nervously before they went with the others.
-"It's up to you to convince the chief, leader."- Morgana said smiling innocently.
-"Oh, shut it, Blacky."- she said a bit upset.
-"Don't call me that name!"- Morgana said.
Later, they arrived to LeBlanc Cafe:
-"I'm home, Sojiro-san."- Kazumi said in a quiet tone.
-"Yes. Welcome back."- Sojiro said in the kitchen while he was washing some dishes.
-"Wow. This smells like the coffee you share with us…"-Ann said.
-"This palace looks so outdated. Can't say I hate it though…"- Ryuji mentioned.
-"People refer to that as 'retro'"- Yusuke added.
When Sojiro realized there was these unknown voices, he turned around and saw the four teenagers:
-"Who are they, Kazumi?"- he asked her.
-"Hello!"- Ann greet enthusiastically.-"We are Kazumi's friends!"
-"I see…"- Sojiro said as he looked that only one of those friends was a girl.-"You took that conversation we had very seriously. Not bad, girl."
-"Wha-!? It's not like that!"- Kazumi blushed to that.
-"Can't be helped. She's being a really nice person with all of us."- Ryuji said.-"It's hard to not stay around her."
-"Indeed."- Yusuke agreed.
-"Sorry if she's causing any trouble. She's just a girl from the countryside."- Sojiro said with a smug smile.
-"Not at all, she has been of great help, really."- Ann said.
-"Well, well."- Sojiro felt relieved that those teenagers in front of her were so nice to the little rebel he kept on his attic.-"Why don't you all take a seat? This round is in the house."
-"Let me help too, Sojiro-san!"- Kazumi offered nervous to serve the coffee for his friends.-"They are my guest after all."
-"Can't say otherwise."- Sojiro replied to her.
After she put her apron, she went towards Yusuke and Ann:
-"So, how do you want your coffee?"- Kazumi asked them with notes on hand.
-"I'll have it black and two sugars."- Yusuke replied.
-"I want it with one cream."- Ann said.
-"Coming right up."- Sojiro said.
-"Hold on. Why don't you ask me?"- Ryuji complained.
-"You can have soda. After all, you can't handle bitter stuff."- Kazumi said to him which he nodded without bickering.
After the coffee and soda was prepared, Kazumi served it to her friends:
-"Wow. It's delicious."- Ann said pleased after trying the first sip..
-"Indeed. There's great depth to its acidity."- Yusuke said with an equally pleased expression.
-"Glad you liked it."- Kazumi said as she was checking the coffee blenders.-"Sojiro-san is a great coffee master."
-"Oh, quit it. An owner must know how to please the clients."- Sojiro said with a smirk towards her.
-"I remember know! I've seen LeBlanc mentioned in a magazine before…"- Ann said suddenly.
-"That must've been a long time ago."- Sojiro said.
-"For real? Give me a taste."- Ryuji said impressed that the shabby place was that relevant and thought the coffee must have been really good. He took Ann's coffee and took a sip from it really fast.
-"Blech!"- the blonde said with an awful taste on his mouth, put the cup back and drank his soda to the bottom.-"It's so bitter! This is gotta be some kind of unusual and cruel punishment!"
-"He. I didn't drink coffee when I was a kid either."- Sojiro said with a sense of humor after the expression Ryuji made.
-"You're just a baby…"- Kazumi mentioned.
-"I am not!"- Ryuji replied back.
-"Well, Kazumi, what are you waiting for?"- Sojiro asked her.-"Take your friends upstairs. No need to stay down here."
-"Oh, I wanna see your room!"- Ann said with curiosity.
-"It's only an attic…"- Sojiro mentioned as he thought there was nothing exciting there.
-"Man, that bitter taste won't leave my mouth."- Ryuji said.
-"Geez. That's your fault."- Kazumi said as she took off her apron.-"Come on, then."
-"Thank you very much for this rich drink."- Yusuke said cordially to Sojiro as he brought his luggage up, following Kazumi.
-"Up these stairs? I've never seen a girl's room before though…"- Ryuji followed them kind of excited.-"Thanks for the soda!"
-"Don't get your hopes up."- Kazumi said to them as she took her bag with Morgana on it.
-"Thanks for the coffee, sir."- Ann said before she went with them but she noticed his inquisitive look.
-"So, your name is…?"- Sojiro asked.
-"Ann. Ann Takamaki."- she replied with a smile.
-"Ann-chan, huh? Do you have a boyfriend?"- he asked with a serious look. It was very important to check that Kazumi had good friends, especially girls since the city ones were not that trustworthy.
-"Neither I have nor I did."- she replied sincerely.
-"I see. I apologize if Kazumi has been meddlesome and troublesome."- he said.
-"No need."- she said with a smile.-"That's pretty much her charm."
-"Hey, Ann! Check out this place! It's insane!"- Ryuji exclaimed from upstairs.
-"Go on."- Sojiro said to her and she went upstairs with them. Complaining about how Ryuji left their bags in the table.
-"Hum. Sweet girl."- Sojiro said satisfied as Kazumi did good in have a friend like Ann and that might made the other two guys good friends as well.
In Kazumi's room, she was leaving Morgana on the bed as the other two were looking around:
-"Whaddaya think of this room…?"- Ryuji asked Yusuke with a feeling of discomfort.
-"So this is a girl's room? Seems quite ordinary to me."- Yusuke said to him.
-"For real…?"- Ryuji said surprised.
-"..."- Kazumi was nervous to the fact that her friends were looking around her room and it didn't even gave a feeling of welcoming.
-"Oh…!"- Ann said surprised as she came upstairs.
-"See? Ain't this crazy?"- Ryuji asked her.
-"Not really. It is as tidy as an attic can get."- Ann said to him.
-"Sojiro-san might be nice to me but that doesn't mean he's gonna let a girl with a criminal record that he barely knew roaming around his house."- Kazumi mentioned.
-"So that's your situation. I guess it can't be helped."- Ann said with a smile.
-"Ann…"- Kazumi was moved that she was understood at least.
-"Well, sit wherever you like."- Morgana said to the others. Kazumi was sitting on her bed grooming Morgana while Ann was on the sofa, Ryuji sitting on the chair of her desk and Yusuke was on the chair she uses to train.
They started to check the Phandom Website again:
-"Even those who were supporting us before have been influenced by the comments on TV."- Yusuke said with a sad frown on his face.
-"This is all that effin' Akechi's fault!"- Ryuji said angry.
-"Keep it down. We don't want anyone down hearing us."- Yusuke said.
-"At this point, we're just going to become a worry for everyone instead of a support…"- Ann said sad.
-"We need to know a way to make reach our righteousness."- Morgana meowed.-"We need to find a target, that's why we are here to discuss right?"
-"It won't be easy to stumble upon anyone."- Ryuji said.-"Do you guys know someone we can start with?"
-"Well...unless we get to the Health Service Bureau conference…"- Ann said.-"Nah. No way that's gonna happen."
-"What are you talking about?"-Yusuke asked.
-"It was a scholar contest we had earlier. The winner of each class gets to go to a conference of the Ministry of Health and Welfare in the International hospital."- Kazumi explained.-"Morgana said that we can look for targets related to the government there."
-"I see...but looking for targets is such a well-guarded place be like hanging in a rope?"- Yusuke asked.
-"Well...you're right about that…"- Morgana said.
-"..."- the others sweated nervously.
-"So, we have nothin'."- Ryuji said.
Suddenly, Yusuke's stomach started to groan strongly:
-"Sorry. I haven't eaten anything since yesterday…"- Yusuke said.
-"And you spent all your money on those sweets!?"- Ann asked in shock.
-"I have an idea! Let's start that welcome party Ann mentioned!"- Kazumi said enthusiastic.-"We can't think with the empty stomach right?"
-"Oh right! Let's get into it!"- Ann said and she spotted a portable stove.-"Look at this! We can make a hot pot with this!"
-"That's a great idea! I heard hot pot meals bring people closer!"- Morgana meowed excited.
-"Alright! Anything with meat is fine by me!"- Ryuji said happily.
-"I only ask that we finish off the porridge. Extra parsley, of course."- Yusuke stood up with enthusiasm.
-"What do you think, Kazumi?"- Ann asked.
-"Fine by me."- she said.-"There's a supermarket in the neighborhood. I'll need someone to help me out to carry the ingredients."
-"We'll go, right Yusuke?"- Ryuji asked and Yusuke nodded to it.
-"Don't worry about the ingredients. You go for the hot pot downstairs. We will split the money later."- Ann said.
-"Eh? Is it alright?"- Kazumi said surprised.
-"Come on, we are the ones with the whole idea."- Ann said to her.-"Besides, you know this place better than us."
-"...Ok."- Kazumi said as she saw them going ahead.
-"Hot pot...that sounds delicious. It's been awhile since you actually cooked somethin."-Morgana said drooling.
-"Right?"- Kazumi said smiling and went downstairs to get the pot.-"Stay here."
-"Don't worry about it."- Morgana said.
When Kazumi went downstairs, her friends were already gone:
-"Sojiro-san. We were planning on cooking upstairs. Can we borrow a pot?"- she asked.
-"Sure. I heard something about it from your friend, Ann-chan."- Sojiro said.-"She seemed like a nice girl. She even told me one of your male friends had nowhere to stay for tonight and if he could stay here."
-"Oh...Did she?"- Kazumi said embarrassed.
-"Well, I guess you could tell she knew it will be pitiful for you to ask yourself."- Sojiro scratched the back of his head.-"To be honest, it'll be inconvenient for both if a boy sleeps in your room like that. So, I guess for tonight you can stay at my place."
-"Really…?"- Kazumi said shocked.-"You OK with this?"
-"I don't see why not if you haven't caused any trouble."- Sojiro said.-"One restriction though, you aren't allowed to sleep late nor get out of your room at night. Understood?"
-"Try at least to follow those rules tonight."- Sojiro said diligent and Kazumi nodded.
-"I promise."- she said.-"Thank you for doing this favor, Sojiro-san."
-"Well, about the pot, you might find it right down the sink."- he changed the conversation.
-"Yes, thank you."- she said as she started to look for it.
Meanwhile, in another residence. Makoto Nijima was having dinner with his sister, Sae. It was a silent dinner with just the two of them until the TV started to play an interesting show:
-"And now with our "Hottest-Meet-and-Greet segment…"-the female announcer said. It was the show recorded with the Shujin Academy students.
-"This tastes a little bland…"- Sae said to his brother.
-"But I'm relieved. It seems after all that has happened, your grades haven't dropped a single bit."-she said with a slight smile.
-"Yes, school's been fine."- Makoto replied demotivated.-"But how are you doing, Sis? You seem tired. Are you having enough sodium?"
-"Do I seem lacking it?"- Sae said worried.
-"But hypothetically speaking, if these Phantom Thieves were real; they should be tried by court law."- Akechi said in the TV. Both siblings were paying attention to it.
-"More importantly, you should've never forcefully change people's heart."- the show continued.
-"...Is it a crime to manipulate someone's heart?"- Makoto asked suddenly.
-"Depending on the means, yes. He's absolutely right."- Sae said looking down.
-"Even if it makes them consider their evil deeds and confess their crimes?"- Makoto asked her.
-"Why the sudden interest?"- Sae asked.
-"Oh...it's nothing."- Makoto said as he started to collect his plate.-"Thanks for the meal."
-"Makoto, do you believe these 'allies of justice' exist?"- his sister asked him.
-"I…"- Makoto was doubtful about it considering his heated conversation with the rebels at school.
-"You don't need to think about such unnecessary things."-Sae said as she frowned.-"...You understand what I mean right?"
-"Study hard and move up to college, right?"- he said as he turned towards her.
-"It's already difficult for anyone to find a decent job as it is. Yet you can't do much without having any authority."- the silver-haired woman said to him.-"I'll doing everything on my hands to make it happen. All you need to do is remain focus in what it's necessary for your future."
-"...Sorry about that. You're right, Sis."- Makoto said looking down and retired to the kitchen to wash his plate.
Sae's phone started to sound suddenly:
-"Now of all times?"- she complained as she took the phone and answered.
-"Yes? It's fine…"-Sae heard what her superior was saying to her and saw Kazumi being interviewed on the show.-"Oh, that case. Hold a moment please."
-"That girl...she was the same I saw in LeBlanc."- Sae thought as she went to the couch on the living room and opened the laptop. Sae started to look for a file about a mental shutdown case.-"Yes, I'm hearing you."
-"There it is…"- Sae mentioned for herself as she saw the file on the case of Doctor Shinkai Hiromi. In the file, the photo of Kazumi and the survivor nurse were displayed as the only witnesses of the murder of the young Kazuya Asaka.-"So this is why she was so familiar…".
She left the living room to continue her conversation, meanwhile, Makoto was washing the dishes while he was thinking:
-"What must be done, huh?"- he was insecure.-"Justice…"
-"If these Phantom Thieves are helpin' out people, I'll certainly root for them."- he remembered the words from Sakamoto.-"They do way more than someone I know."
-"What do I want to do…?"- Makoto asked himself whole frowning frustrated.
In Kazumi's room, the rebels ate until they were completely full:
-"Man, I can't take another bite…"- Ryuji complained.
-"That was delicious girls. You surely will make fine brides some-"- Morgana said before Ann's yawn interrupted him.
-"Sorry. I will borrow your sofa for a bit."- An said as she decided to reclinate on it.
-"Don't even think about it or Ann will get mad."- Kazumi said towards Morgana and Ryuji who were planning to take the chance to look under her skirt.
-"Gah! Busted before even having a chance…"- Ryuji murmured for himself.
-"That's what I was going to say…! To Ryuji…"- Morgana pretended to be a gentleman but nobody will believe on that right now.
-"What's wrong, Yusuke-kun?"- Kazumi asked as she saw him with low vibes.
-"We haven't finished our meal...What about the porridge or even Udon…?"-he mentioned.
-"Just leave it for next time, man."- Ryuji told him. They suddenly heard Ann sleeping soundly.-"She's asleep already!? Did she just forget the reason we came here?"
-"It doesn't matter. Just let her sleep, after all she did today…"- Kazumi said to him.
-"By the way Ryuji, how do you know Ann? You are not in the same grade as Kazumi-san and her."-Yusuke asked.
-"Well, we went to middle school together."- Ryuji replied.
-"How was she back then?"- Morgana asked.
-"Not so different from now."- the blonde replied.-"When we got to high school, we changed classes and stopped talkin'..."
-"She didn't have many friends."- Ryuji added.-"I mean, she was from overseas and her looks. The popular kids hated her and the quiet ones stayed away."
-"I see…"- Yusuke said.-"So, what about you two?"
-"...Us?"- Ryuji asked surprised but understood the look in the eyes of Yusuke. It was the time to get their plan going.
-"This is a great chance to get to know each other."- Yusuke added happily.-"Since you all know about my past. It is only fair that I know about yours."
-"So you got nothin' to lose huh? Fine by me."- Ryuji mentioned.
-"The past, huh…?"- Kazumi was thinking about it. A nod formed on her throat. Perhaps, it was the time to talk about her traumatic past with them. The moment she was wondering about ever since Ryuji shared his story with her.
-"My father left when I was young…Ever since then, it's been just me and my mom."- Ryuji started his story.-"I was actually trying to get a track scholarship so I could make things easier for her."
-"But then I screwed it all up. Turns out, I was a bad son, huh?"- he said as he laughed ironically about it to the worried look of Kazumi.-"Back in my first year, my mom was called out to the school for me raisin' my hand against Kamoshida."
-"All the teachers kept houndin' at her for what I did but she stayed quiet through the entire of it…"- he said.-"I'll never forget the look she had on her face though."
-"On the way home, she apologized to me for what she did. For bein' a single mom and all…"-he said while frowning his eyebrows in sadness.
-"So that's what happened…"- Yusuke said with a same expression.-"They say at school everyone is equal but in reality that's a gross oversimplification...I understand how you feel."
-"It must be nice…"- Kazumi said quietly to Ryuji and Yusuke.-"To have a mom that worries about you like yours and Yusuke-kun's."
-"Kazumi?"- Ryuji said surprised.-"Is this about your past?"
-"We never have heard the details of it. Are you confident that you can tell us?"- Morgana asked her.
-"It is fine I guess."- Kazumi said as she corrected her posture.-"Out of all of us, I've been keeping a lot of secrets…"
-"You see...My family is not really a normal one."- Kazumi started.-"My parents married for business and I was born for the sake of it, same as my little brother, Kazuya."
-"Kazuya was born with a mental disorder and that ruined the contract between my parents...so, my mother asked for the divorce and tried to separate us. I was the one who asked to stay with him and my father."- she continued.
-"That's just bullshit! You two were her children!"- Ryuji interrupted.
-"Certainly, but it was her decision."- she nodded.-"About a year ago, Kazuya had an intense pain and was interned in the Koshigaya Hospital. The doctor in charge of him was Dr. Hiromi, a recognized neurosurgeon over all."
-"But after months, Kazuya started to get more and more dangerous symptoms: rushes, coughs, nosebleeds, fever, infections in the ear, you name it. My father was always travelling, my mother only cared enough to pay for his treatment and I...I was the only one who could stay by his side all the time."- Kazumi explained.-"It was in January when Dr. Hiromi found a stomach ulcer on his body and not only that...but also, I spotted a nurse trying to...inject weird substances in his organism."
-"What!?"- Morgana said shocked.
-"How indignifying…"- Yusuke reacted in a rage shock.-"Why would that nurse do something like that?"
-"I honestly don't know."-Kazumi denied with her head.-"Dr. Hiromi left the security to deal with her. He seemed...nervous about it but he said he will operate Kazuya in two days after that incident."
-"...During the surgery...well…"-the nod in Kazumi's throat started to be more intense, like she was about to cry.-"Both of them...both of them…Kazuya was killed by Dr. Hiromi and he died as well."
-"What!?"- Ann suddenly woke up hearing that. She was actually hearing the whole time.-"No way. H-How did that happen!? Why will he do something like that?"
-"Lady Ann...were you awake this whole time?"- Morgana asked.
-"I couldn't sleep when Kazumi started her whole story but I couldn't say anything either."- Ann said.-"So? What else happened?"
-"...After Kazuya's ceremony, I confronted that nurse. I had this firm belief that she did something to Dr. Hiromi."- Kazumi said looking down.-"A drug she injected on him or something, I believed she was responsible for the death of both. That ended up against me. She put me a trap if I tried to denounce her to the police and put drugs on my bag."
-"Then, she pretended I was trying to get medicinal drugs out of her to mix them and the whole hospital staff in the cafeteria believed her story that I was a drug addict and I attacked her."- she said.-"It was how I got my probation."
Slam! Ryuji almost made the plates fly out after hitting the table:
-"That's just absolute bullshit. Just listening to it pisses me off!"- he exclaimed.-"Not only to that nurse, your parents were just as assholes as well!"
-"Forget about it. I should've listened to my father and move on from Kazuya's death."- Kazumi said.-"I even made everything harder for us when I suddenly screamed at him that he hated Kazuya because of the whole arrangement and me as well for getting a probation."
-"Yet he still sends you a big supply of banana milk and finds you a place to stay with a trustworthy acquaintance."- Morgana said.
-"Fine. But what about that woman? She seems like the kind of person that totally deserves a change of heart!"- Ann said, which made Kazumi felt scared all of the sudden.-"What is her name and where can we find her?"
-"Her name is Haruka Furukawa."-she limited it to just the name.-"We should forget about her as well. She doesn't even live nearby and I'm sure she doesn't have a palace at all!"
-"Kazumi, she put drugs on your brother and caused your probation. That's even more messed up to what Kamoshida and Madarame did!"- Ryuji said.
-"I have to agree with Ryuji. Lives were lost because of a woman like that and who knows what other lives…."-Yusuke said.
-"I said it's not possible!"- Kazumi suddenly stood up.-"Besides, changing the heart of a simple nurse won't get us any far to open Mementos."
-"Or maybe she's not a simple nurse…"- Ann said as she checked her phone.
-"What do you mean…?"-Morgana asked and Ann showed an article of a couple of months ago.
-"Haruka Furukawa. It turns out she ascended to be a councillor in the Health service Bureau."-she said to the shock of all of them.
-"For real…?"- Ryuji said and read the article.-"It was almost nothin' ago!"
-"To think someone that far fetched has an important role in the Ministry of Health…"- Yusuke said.
-"No way...This can't be happening…"- Kazumi murmured to herself.
-"She makes for a suitable target then."- Morgana said.-"A woman with a clear background that suddenly came to be a councillor but it actually hides two murders on her sleeve…"
-"This will totally help the Phantom Thieves to gain popularity!"-he concluded.
-"I'm saying…!"- Kazumi suddenly dropped Ann's hand with her phone to the table.-"That means nothing. Even if she looks like the perfect target and all...She's not even here and we don't even know if she will awake a palace."
-"Wasn't the Health service….something having a conference this month?"-Ryuji mentioned.-"If that's the case, we will totally see her there. Especially if we get to win the contest...aghh...we should've thought about this earlier."
-"This is still a bad idea!"- Kazumi was forcing her clasped fist with fear. Ann took one for them worried for her expression.
-"Do you feel well?"- she asked her.-"It is not like you to get this anxious. Is there any reason why you don't want to confront this woman?"
-"I...I can't do it, Ann."- Kazumi replied.-"I actually feel scared…"
-"Don't worry, cutie. We are here with you. It's not like you are confronting her alone."- Ryuji said.
-"It's not that…"- Kazumi denied with her head.-"You see, before I moved in this place...I had a dream. That was the first time I saw my shadow, Arsene."
-"He told me that I should make a contract with him and steal back to what I was stolen of. I couldn't do it back then...I was afraid of becoming evil…"- she admitted.-"I was afraid of being just the same as that woman. As a result, our contract was incomplete and that's why I had my outfit when we entered to Kamoshida's castle for the first time with Ryuji-kun."
-"For real?"- Morgana said surprised.-"Is this why you seem so used to the Metaverse? Because you were the first one to awaken a Persona?"
-"Something like that."- Kazumi said as she separated her hands from Ann's.-"Anyways, by any means, we have to stay away from that woman."
-"Perhaps, you are right."- Yusuke said to the shock of the other three.-"Even if we do change her heart, it is not like your probation will be lifted. The court already made the law."
-"But still, this is totally infuriating!"- Ryuji said.-"This world is totally messed up!"
-"Kazumi is our leader. If she wants to stay away from this target, we have to choose to stay away as well."- Morgana said.-"Which means we gotta look for another one. Is that right, Kazumi?"
-"It will be for the best…"- Kazumi said as she packed something on her bag pack.-"I'm sure there are more targets to focus on…"
-"Well, I think it is time for me to go to Sojiro-san's house."- she said.-"Make yourself at home in this room, Yusuke-kun. Oh right. Morgana will stay with you. He was clear about that."
-"Is this late already?"- Ann said surprised.
-"I guess we should call it nights too."- Ryuji said.
-"I will like to have a nice bath before going to sleep."- Yusuke said.
-"There's a bathhouse nearby here. I won't be able to go with you though."- Morgana said.
-"I have an idea. We should all go!"- Ryuji said.-"You know, this conversation didn't turn out lively at all and leaving like that is just so troubling. What do you say girls?"
-"I agree, let's go Kazumi. A good bath will relax your nerves a bit."- Ann said happily.
-"Fine. I have never gone to that place by myself."- Kazumi turned around and looked at them trying to be upbeat.
-"Hooray! Let's go!"- Ryuji said as they all went to the bathhouse.
Moments later in the bathhouse, Ryuji and Yusuke were bathing in the hot waters to relax:
-"Ahh...Huge bathtubs really are the best…"- Ryuji said relaxed.
-"It's a bit too hot though…"- Yusuke said.
-"Old men like it hot. He'll stop eventually."- Ryuji said as he pointed at the old man that was opening the hot water tap.
-"..."- Ryuji started to stare at the wall at the other side of the room. Yusuke realized and looked as well.
-"So, what are you looking at?"- he asked.
-"Nah. I was thinking...the girls are on the other side of this wall."- Ryuji said.
-"Oh. Is this a suggestion to take a peek on them?"- Yusuke said after making the connection.
-"What!? No, you idiot."- Ryuji said blushing.-"I was thinking about how we screwed the whole thing."
-"Things don't go in life as planned."- Yusuke said.
-"Agh. This conversation put me angsty."- Ryuji said annoyed.-"So, Yusuke, what do you think about Kazumi as a girl?"
-"Why the sudden question?"-the dark haired boy asked.
-"Well, you went as far last time to call her 'Honey' so I was wondering…"- Ryuji said as he put his hands behind his head.-"Not to mention, you got competition if you are interested on her."
-"This competition will be you, I presume?"- Yusuke asked directly taking him by surprise.
-"...Me?"- he asked innocently.
Meanwhile in the women's bathroom, Kazumi was washing her body:
-"How about I wash your back, Kazumi?"- Ann proposed behind her.
-"Sure? Thanks."- Kazumi replied estranged to her gesture. Ann was washing her softly while she stayed quiet.
-"...Hey, sorry about earlier."- Ann murmured at her.-"I didn't consider how you felt about that woman."
-"That's fine. I never talked about it either."- Kazumi replied.
-"Still, we kind of take the opportunity to make you speak so we could target that woman. We thought we were helping but…"- Ann said upset as she stopped washing and took a hose to wash off the soap.
-"Is it because I was always hiding this?"- Kazumi said.-"I'm sorry about it as well. Even Morgana was always trying to get me talk about it. I must've have worried you all."
-"But, forgetting about that woman is the only way to move on from my brother's death. That was what caused this whole situation…"- she murmured for herself.
-"We support you about it too."- Ann said as she hugged her suddenly.
-"Ann…?"- Kazumi felt that was no ordinary hug. It tickled her.
In the other bathroom, Ryuji and Yusuke continued their conversation:
-"You're imaging stuff. I was talking about other guys that clearly have interest on her, that student council president or the Akechi-bastard to name a few."
-"Is that so?"- Yusuke said.-"Well, if I was interested in Kazumi-san as more than a friend, I'll see you as the competition."
-"You are in her same school, always hang out with her and she seems more comfortable around you."- Yusuke explained.
-"Ahahaha. You might be right."- Ryuji said.-"But I already said we are just friends."
-"Anyway, what's with these!?"- Ann said as she poked one of Kazumi's breast.-"They are big! What cup size are you!?"
The boys could hear her from the other bathroom:
-"Was that Ann?"- Yusuke asked.
-"Shh."- Ryuji made a sign to him to silence while they got closer to the wall.
-"I think it was ** cup…."-Kazumi said quietly.-"Stop touching them! It tickles!"
-"Oh really?"- Ann said as she started to tickle her body.
-"Ehe...hehehehehe...kyah! Stop it, Ann!"- Kazumi was trying to hold her laugh but it wa clearly loud enough for the dudes on the other to hear.
-"Gyah! What's your problem?"- Ann said as Kazumi suddenly dropped cold water on her.
-"Counterattack!"- Kazumi exclaimed as she started to tickle her in retaliation.
-"Hey! Don't touch there!"- Ann said while she laughing loud as well.
-"What do you think it's going on there…?"- Ryuji murmured to Yusuke.
-"Who knows…"- Yusuke replied.-"I am tempted to take a look, after you Ryuji."
-"Hell no! Ann will kill me!"- he exclaimed suddenly.-"Ouch!"-and felt his body burning.
-"That's it! This is freakin' hot!"-he suddenly stood out of the bathtub...nude.-"How much you have to add until you are satisfied, gramps!?"-he shouted at the old man that was still putting hot water on the tub.
-"I guess I'm going home…"-Ryuji mentioned.-"Let's meet up someday next week to look for another target. See ya."
-"Sure."- Yusuke said as he stayed.-"It wasn't that hot though…".
After he was finished, Yusuke saw Kazumi waiting for him on the laundromat next to the bathhouse:
-"You stayed too long…"-she said.-"Ann y Ryuji left like 10 minutes ago."
-"My apologies."- Yusuke said.
-"It's fine."- Kazumi stood from the chair she was in.-"I might find hard to get some sleep tonight…"
They started to walk to LeBlanc:
-"Is that so?"- Yusuke asked her.-"Sorry to bring up the theme earlier…"
-"I heard it from Ann. You guys were planning to make me talk about it and I know it was fair for you all to know what happened."- Kazumi said.-"But, I also understand that my cowardice might be blocking us of a great opportunity."
-"The fear you have seems rational to me."- Yusuke said as they arrived to LeBlanc-"The rage and bloodthirst for ending the life of someone who rob you of everything for their own selfishness…"
-"Ryuji, Ann and I were able to suppress it for the sake of the mision. Are you sure, you can't do it?"- Yusuke asked.
-"I...I think it's better not to have those high hopes in me…"-Kazumi looked down.-"I don't like to be in a situation that I can't control…and if I do end up causing a mental shutdown in that woman, we're done for."
-"That's not fair for any of us."- Kazumi said as she opened the door-"Well, it's time to go to sleep."
-"Don't touch touch anything from the cafe or Sojiro-san will explode."- Kazumi warned him.
-"Preposterous, I was given a place to stay. I will be in my best behavior."- Yusuke said with full pride as he went in and Kazumi closed the door of the store with lock and all.
Kazumi walked to Sojiro's house. She looked at it as the first time she arrived at the city. It was nice and weird of Sojiro to offer her a room just now. He was definitely hiding something there...but that was a problem for another day. Sojiro opened her the door and guided her to her room on the first floor. Nothing seemed strange about the house for now.
Her new room wasn't bad yet she really couldn't catch some sleep….That was until suddenly she heard the piano and she found herself in the Velvet room:
-"Kazumi Asaka has returned."- Victor said as she woke up on the courtroom.
-"Receive the words of praise of our Master, client."- Will said and she silently looked at the long-nosed man.
-"The bonds you have formed are quite intriguing…"- Igor mentioned.-"In other words, they all have been unfairly judged by society and are standing up against such fates."
-"Have you noticed? Your heart seems to inspire theirs."- Igor said which made Kazumi look down.
-"Inspire, huh? From someone like me?"- Kazumi murmured.
-"That's right. Outcasts of society...in other words, you're picaresque. Deepen your bonds with them."- Igor added.
-"Those will become your strength beyond your rehabilitation...I look forward for it."- Igor mentioned and heard Kazumi's chains when he stood up.
-"That's right...I still can complete my rehabilitation if I get stronger Personas…"- Kazumi said.-"I don't have to confront that woman at all."
-"Client?"- Victor wondered when she mentioned that.
-"You seem quite conflicted yourself but there's no need for us to interfere."- Igor said.-"Let me bestow you with a gift as a way to congratulate your efforts and dedication to your rehabilitation."
-"..."- Kazumi felt a change in her heart.
The Fool Arcana received a fifth star.
*Persona storage increased to 10*
-"Well, it is time."- Igor said as Kazumi started to get sleepy again.
June 12th
In a prestigious university, many third year high-schoolers went for the open house event of it. During the recess, Makoto was walking around the hall until he was stopped by Goro:
-"You are Sae-san's younger brother, correct?"- Akechi said as he stopped him.-"May I talk to you for a moment?"
-"Is this about your investigation of the phantom thieves, Akechi?"- Makoto said as he turned around.
-"You're quite perceptive."- Akechi said with a smile.-"I was wondering if there was any points in commom between both current cases."
-"There have been victims after all. The Phantom Thieves need to be pursued."- Akechi said in a serious tone.
-"I see. You critize the Phantom Thieves yet you don't doubt about their existence."- Makoto said interested.
-"I see you watched the TV show."- Akechi said.-"Precisely it's what happens. The phenomenon of a change of heart...no matter how many times you look at it, it makes no sensel."
-"Common sense gets in the way of the truth, at least in this case."- Akechi added.-"As a result, many things become logical if I think that they exist."
-"Did my sister tell you that conclusion?"- Makoto asked as he put his hands on his pockets.
-"That might be just coincidence."- Akechi mentioned.-"It is fascinating though. Phantom Thieves that use calling cards to succeed in their crimes…"
-"As the High School Prince Detective, it will be hard to not see them as my rival."- Akechi thought about it.
-"You have such a high self-steem."- Makoto said closing his eyes uncomfortable.-"So the thieves are evil and you are just?"
-"Well, as they change the hearts of those who they see fit; I believe I'm in the side of justice."- Akechi replied-"Don't you see yourself like that as well?"
-"...Tsk."- Makoto clasped his teeth.-"Not really."
-"Oh that's kind of surprising. So you're just the kind of good-boy pushover."- Akechi said dissapointed. He saw the hour on his phone.-"Looks like recess is over. Give Sae-san my regards."
-"Gah…!"- Makoto held his forehead as he had a headache.-"Why does everyone think they can get on my case?"
Meanwhile, in LeBlanc, Sojiro was serving some coffee for Yusuke who actually stood in his best behavior:
-"It's such a delight to get coffee of this quality."- Yusuke said as he gave the first slip.
-"You could stay until you find a place, you know. I can't promise it will be comfortable here though."- Sojiro said as he looked Yusuke's luggage ready to leave.
-"I am grateful but I must return to the dorms."- Yusuke said.-"I realized something when I talked to everyone yesterday. Perhaps it's because my upbringing, but I lack of knowledge of the world."
-"If I want to become an artist that depicts about people, I must become closer to them. In order to do that, I'll return to the dorms and interact more with others."
-"Glad you realized that by yourself."- Sojiro said.-"My doors are always open if you want to enjoy some coffee."
-"Thank you. I'll make sure to have change for one everytime."- Yusuke said happily and looked at the door.
-"Besides, Kazumi-san's been going through a lot from what I heard…"- he said sadly.
-"So, she did tell you guys."- Sojiro mentioned.-"If you think about it, her deceased brother is probably the only happiness she ever had. She was really silent and demotivated when she came here for the first time."
-"But she slowly started to gain her cheerful personality back when she met all of you."- Sojiro said.
-"I might be stepping on the bounds but what was your reason to take her in?"- Yusuke asked.
-"Well, it's probably because she reminds me of a younger lady I know."- Sojiro said.
-"That's all?"- Yusuke said.
-"It doesn't take much to take consideration of someone, you know."- Sojiro replied.-"It's like your former art instructor. He must have had any consideration for you besides stealing your artwork."
-"Truth to be told, I can't entirely hate him."- Yusuke said.-"Well, it is time for me to get going."
-"Wait. About that picture, are you sure to leave it here? It could be a waste."- Sojiro asked him.
-"If I left it in the dorms, it will be found with skepticism."- Yusuke replied as he stood up.-"Adding a spark of color to an ordinary day, I'm sure my mother would've wanted it that way."
-"...I see. I'll keep it for you."- Sojiro nodded.
-"Thansk for the coffee."- Yusuke said as he took his luggage.-"Please express my gratefulness to Kazumi-san when she wakes up."
After a few hours, Kazumi woke up and left Sojiro's house with all the stuff she brought with her. She entered in LeBlanc after:
-"Good morning."- Kazumi said.-"Huh? Where's Yusuke-kun?"
-"Morning? It's past noon. You surely slept a lot."- Sojiro said.-"He left a few hours ago and…"-he pointed at the 'Sayuri' with his head.
-"He left 'Sayuri' with us..?"- Kazumi said as she saw it.
-"The kid seems nice. It's hard to see youngs so grateful these days."- Sojiro said.-"And this painting is so nice. I felt like I had seen it somewhere before…"
-Well, I already opened the store so you better take the cat out somewhere."- Sojiro said to her.
-"Understood."- Kazumi went upstairs to get Morgana and received some messages from Yusuke where he updated her about his departure.
She also received a message from the group chat where Ryuji mentioned that he found someone in the Phansite asking for help about some burglars assaulting restaurants with the name of phantom thieves. Yusuke thought that they should draw them to LeBlanc but everyone knew it was a dumb idea and left the thought behind.
At the afternoon, Kazumi decided to hang out with Ann as she was called by Shiho to vist her in her rehabilitation process. Ann was thinking about a gif to bring with her but couldn't come up with anything and was suddenly called by her agency to model in Central Street.
Unfortunately, the shooting went surprisingly bad as Ann gained the bad side of another sub-model, Mika who badmouthed her for not being a serious model and ended up making the agency team cancelling Ann's participation that time. That model gave a motivation to Ann though: to be strong enough to handle horrible people like her.
To this interaction, the Lovers arcana card got a 5th star.
*Ann's crocodile tears ability unlocked*
At night, she received a message from Mishima thanking her for solving the requests in Mementos and invited her somewhere to discuss the next step of operation. That place was actually a very expensive buffet, to make matters worse, Mishima accidentally made the people of his forum donate money and they were using that money to pay for the buffet.
Kazumi, obviously, had to made him reconsider to return it all as it was inappropriate to use donated money for expenses that weren't in order to their purpose as the phantom thieves. Mishima started to feel that it wasn't the best course of action either and promised to return the money and thank the fans for their generosity. His mistake also made him motivated to compensate Kazumi for the lost time by looking for more targets. Feeling Mishima's enthusiasm, the Moon arcana card gained a fourth star.
June 13th
During lunchtime, Kawakami was called by the Principal. He was there along side the Council President:
-"Did you want to see me, Principal Kobayakawa?"- she asked.
-"I do. I need you to investigate one of your class students that I suspect has cheated on her essay for the contest."- he said exalted.
-"Cheating? Huh?"- Kawakami said surprised.-"This is gonna be annoying…"
-"Who is this student you suspect?"- Kawakami asked.
-"Kazumi Asaka."- Makoto replied.
-"She?"- Kawakami said surprised.-"What makes you say that?"
-"She was the one student in your class to win the contest."- Kobayakawa said.-"You are totally aware about her and the problem it could represent for us to announce her as a winner."
-"I understand. However, I know she did not cheat."- Kawakami declared.-"That essay was written by Asaka from head to feet."
-"I-I see…"- Kobayakawa said as he couldn't swag Kawakami's opinion away.-"But to let that delincuent is such an important event…"
-"I can keep an eye on her."- Makoto said to Kobayakawa.-"If I go, Asaka will not have a chance to ruin the name of the school if that's what she is planning."
-"It's not a bad idea. Besides, a delinquent who can be outstanding within two months will certainly a show a great representation of our education system."- the Principal said enthusiastic.-"Very well, let's do that. I'm counting on this with you, Makoto."
-"If that's what it is, I'll return to my position."-Kawakami said and left the office. She sighed after leaving and thought about how could they accuse her student of cheating in something as irrelevant to the students as a political contest.
Before the last period ended, an announcement was made through the school's megaphones:
-"Attention, students."- the voice of one of the students in the radio station was there.-"We are proud to announce the winners of each class for the essay contest held last Friday."
-"I wonder who won in our class…?"-Ann turned around to ask Kazumi.
-"Who knows? Maybe one of the front rows…"- Kazumi said.
-"Next, I'll mention the second-years. From class 2-D, Kazumi Asaka, from class 2-C..."-the girl announced to the shock of everyone.
-"Wait what?"- many students in her class reacted.-"Is this for real? The transfer student?"
-"For real…?"- Ryuji said on his class in shock as well.
Ann turned around to see how was Kazumi reacting to this notice:
-"This is gotta be a joke…"- Kazumi murmured.-"This can't be possible…"
Take Your Time...