Chapter 42: Growth of Faith.

January 14th, 2017

It was agreed upon that infiltration would resume on the 22nd. To give the team time to recover from their fight with the Reaper. While no lasting damage, save a few more scars, was inflicted, they could till feel pain in parts of their bodies. Not enough to slow them down in real life. But possibly fatal in the Metaverse.

So it was that Ren found himself helping Haru with her garden on the school roof. Or rather…her forest. There was so many plants up here that the growth threatened to push down the metal fences. The vice-principal tried to get them removed, but the new principle shot him down.

Stating that it was good for the environment to have such greenery be present. Although it did call for the roof to be strengthened a tad. Not that the Thieves were complaining. It was their own calming area to relax in. At least that was what Haru and Ren were doing, pulling up vegetables as Sumire suddenly appeared from behind.

"Um…Ren, Haru?" She asks quietly, grabbing their attention.

"Hm? What's wrong, Sumire-chan?" Haru asks gently. Before, Sumire suddenly bows to them.

"I am so, so sorry!"

"Huh? What is this about?" Ren asks, surprised.

"Seeing me trying to act like Kasumi must have been so painful and awkward for everyone. Everyone must have noticed that I was acting strangely. They were probably being nice to me, knowing I'd just lost my sister… But even then, I had no idea I was even supposed to be sad. I didn't even remember that my sister was gone." Ren and Haru glance at each other, knowing this was something that Sumire had to get off her chest.

"When my coach told me to 'think about who I really am,' I thought it was just figurative… Something about my slump. I was just living a fake life—like I didn't care that she was gone!" She hits her hand on the fence. "I can't take this shame…"

"You didn't do it on purpose." Haru says gently.

"Right, what could you have done? What matters is that at least you know about it now." Ren agrees.

"Well, yes…" Sumire admits. "But even then, how do I even forgive myself? Ever since we were kids, Kasumi was always the one who decided what I did, what I choose, where I went… I wonder if Luca would have been similar to Tao in that regard…"

"It sounds like you are remembering more about her." Ren comments.

"Yes. I'm starting to remember things from our past now. It's hard, but I'm trying." Sumire admits, placing a hand on her head. "There's a lot. It covers everything, starting from when Kasumi and I first got into gymnastics up until recently." She looks up at Ren and Haru. "I'm not Kasumi…and no matter what I will never be like her. She was always surrounded on the podium, surrounded by flashing cameras. But all I could do was watch from the shadows."

"It must have been heard." Haru comments.

"Yes, that is one way of putting it." Sumire agrees, looking at the plants. "The thought kept coming back. Every day, my mind went back to it. Everyone would be better off if I didn't exist. Either that, or I should just be Kasumi. She's the one people really want…is what I deluded myself into thinking. I'm done running away." She looks back to Ren and Haru.

"I can't stop here. Now, I want to keep doing gymnastics as Sumire. I want to hit those heights Kasumi was aiming for. Otherwise…I would never be able to face her."

"And we will be there every step of the way. All of us." Ren says with Haru nodding in agreement.

"That's right. You are not alone, Sumire-chan." Haru adds.

"Really? Thank you so much." Sumire replies with a small smile while Ren sees the sixth star appear on her card. "I have to get stronger in both my heart and my gymnastic skills. But for now…I'm Sumire Yoshizawa. It's a pleasure to meet you again."

"The pleasure is all ours, Sumire." Ren replies as he and Haru bow to her with smiles.

January 16th, 2017

"So, what is this special program that Sumire is doing?" Ann asks as she, Ryuji and Ren walk to a nearby gym.

"Dunno. She didn't say much, only that it would help work out some stress." Ren replies, glancing at the two founders. "It's a shame only we can make it though."

"Can't really blame the others. They all had things to take care of." Ann remarks as Ren opens the door. "Still, could be useful for the future."

"Well, let's find out huh?" Ryuji asks, spotting Sumire in gym clothes, ready for a work out. "You, Sumire!" HE calls out, getting her attention as she glances over to them with a beaming smile.

"You came." She says, before tilting her head. "Is it just you?"

"Everyone else had things that came up, so it's just us." Ann comments. "So, what is it that you want to try?"

"It's a special lesson from the coach at my club. A special program that revolves around boxercising. It relives stress, and is open to the public so you can join if you want."

"Boxercising huh? I always wanted o try it out." Ryuji comments, looking to Ren and Ann. "How about you two?"

"Sure. I can give it a go." Ren replies.

"Same here, and if they are allowing sparring matches…" She looks at Ryuji, shotting him a challenging smirk. "You are going down Sakamoto."

"Oh? Is that a challenge, Takamaki?" Ryuji replies, matching her smirk. "Then far be it from me to turn it down."

"There is sparring, but don't go crazy, okay?" Sumire says before glancing at a mirror. Kasumi helped me through this unique regimen several times. It gets tricky after a while. Your limbs start feeling heavier the longer you go on." Her face falls. "Whenever we did this before, all I could focus on was how well Kasumi was doing. And how I wanted to stop. Kasumi was probably so disappointed in me… I got tired out so quick."

"Maybe. But things change right? Your stronger now than before." Ren comments.

"Yeah. I know I'm stronger now. But, I know I was disappointed in myself. Kasumi never doubted herself for a second…." She glances at the watch on her wrist. "Oh, it's almost time for my coach to arrive. You better hurry and change."

Not wasting time, the three Thieves change into spare gym clothes and join Sumire, just as her coach arrives.

"Hello, Coach Hiraguchi!" Sumire greets with a bow, with her coach raising an eyebrow.

"Sumire…? Is it my imagination, or are you back to your old self again?" She asks, seeing the change in her.

"Yes… After a lot of help, I've managed to snap out of it and have time to properly grieve. I'm still not fully back to normal, but I'm in a much better headspace than I was before. I'm sorry you had to put up with me like that." She says with a frown. But Hiraguchi shakes her off.

"I'm just glad you're back to your normal self." She remarks, glancing at Ren. "And I take it I have you three to thank for it?"

"Us, and the rest of our friends. And Akechi." Ren confirms with a nod.

"I see. I am glad to hear that." She replies, turning back to Sumire. "Now then, let's begging. First, I'd like you to being Sumire. Let's start with your combination." Time passes by as the four Thieves work through the motions, finding themselves releasing stress they didn't know they had. Although, they had to be careful as some parts of their bodies were still healing from the Reaper fight.

Something that Sumire's coach didn't take notice of or passed it off as caution.

"Alright. That's enough for today." She says to the four. "Good work today. I can see less stress in your eyes."

"Man, that was fun. I should do more of this." Ryuji admits, patting his leg. "Might even be good to help my leg with therapy."

"If it does, then that makes me glad." Hiraguchi replies, turning to look at Sumire. "Now then, I know that I said you did a good job, but there is still something that I need to say. While the combination was strong, it felt as though I was seeing Kasumi and not Sumire."

"Oh…" Sumire replies, looking crestfallen.

"It was bold, yes, just like how Kasumi defined her performance with the same level of boldness. But that's not something you can incorporate into yourself. It came from the energy within her. That's what made her Kasumi. I told you to think about who you really are. And I can tell you are on the right track, but it seems you haven't reached the answer yet." Hiraguchi says in a stern yet calm manner.

"A part of you is still trying to be Kasumi. If you continue to deny yourself like this, how can she call you her rival?" Hiraguchi asks, causing Sumire to look at her with wide eyes.

"Huh? Rival? She thought of me like that?" Sumire asks.

"Yes. I never wanted to draw attention to it, but Kasumi did have a very competitive streak. She hated to lose." Hiraguchi shakes her head. "She was so jealous of you and your distinctive graceful style. 'I can't lose to that', she would say after practice. And she wanted you to see that."

"I never knew that…" Sumire says, a little surprised.

"Well, now you know. I've said all I need to say. You are close to finding the answer Sumire. And I look forward to seeing what you find." Hiraguchi ends with a smile, before walking away. Leaving behind a stunned Sumire.

"You okay Sumire?" Ann asks, placing a hand on her shoulder.

"Thank you, but I'm fine." Sumire replies with a smile. "But still, me 'graceful'? Now that she mentioned it, that's the one thing my coach always complimented me on. But even with that, I couldn't match Kasumi's performance at all. And now she says that Kasumi saw me as a rival? I mean, I've always been imitating her. Ever since the beginning I've been following Kasumi."

"Isn't that what all siblings do?" Ryuji asks.

"Well, yeah. And at the start, it was fine. I loved being with Kasumi, and it was fun. But ever since I started noticing the difference in our gymnastic skills, one thing became clear. I'll always be someone less than Kasumi. I'm just worthless after all…"

"Oh no. Stop right there. You're not pulling a Makoto on us." Ann says suddenly, holding a hand up.

"For real. Talking yourself down never helps." Ryuji adds. "All that shit does it put up a mental block in your head."

"That's right. You just need more confidence." Ren adds with a nod. Sumire looks at them a smile forming on her face.

"Thank you for saying that. You're all so kind." Sumire replies. "Still, something occurred to me when Coach told me what Kasumi said. I realise that just like she wanted to show me what she could do, I still want to show all of you want I can do. You remember?"

"We do." Ren replies, nodding his head. "Maybe that's what you need to chase?" He suggests, with Sumire's eyes widening.

"I think so! That might be what I need to get my confidence back! It sounded like Kasumi liked my subtle and delicate moves so…If I mix it with her aggressive style…" The trio could see the gears turning in her mind as Ren spies the seventh star form above her head. "This might be the breakthrough I need! Thank you for bouncing idea around with me!" She says, hugging the trio with a beaming smile.

"Hey, no props Sumi!" Ryuji replies.

"We are always happy to help!" Ann comments, returning the hug.

January 18th, 2017

Shibuya underground mall was packed full. Compared to the empty simulation they saw in Maruki's Palace, it was astonishing that so many people could fit inside these halls, at least to Ren and Makoto, as they weaved their way through, trying to find a restaurant with free tables.

"This one's full as well. This is turning into Christmas Eve all over again." Makoto remarks, passing by another full shop.

"Yeah. Another mark against Maruki's Perfect Reality." Ren comments, before spotting three familiar faces nearby. "Hey, look over there." He nudges Makoto, pointing at the trio.

"Huh. Wonder what they are doing here." She asks as the couple starts heading over to them. "What are you three up to?" She asks Yu, who turns to look at her.

"Oh, hello. Didn't expect to see you two here." He remarks as Minako and Minato turn around. "You seem to be looking better as well."

"Yeah. Think we'll be ready by the 22nd." Ren replies. "But you haven't answered Makoto's question." He smirked, noting how Yu had suddenly gone quiet while Minako giggled at him.

"That's because he's looking for a gift for his wife back home." She says, grinning ear to ear.

"Really? That's so sweet." Makoto coos as Yu looks away embarrassed.

"Aren't you doing the same thing for you wife, Minako?" Minato suddenly asks, causing his sister to start sputtering like an idiot, with Ren and Makoto chuckling at her reaction.

"You're looking for a gift for your wife to man." Yu remarks with Minato looking away. While not blushing, it was clear he was embarrassed.

"Nothing wrong with gift shopping. I think its nice." Ren replies, wrapping an arm around Makoto. "Do you want us to help?"

"It would be nice. This is actually our first time exploring the underground mall, so we are a little lost." Minako reveals sheepishly. Before her eyes spot someone in clothes shop. "Hey, isn't that Sumire over there? What is she wearing?" She draws their attention to the girl, standing in the shop wearing…what could be called be called a safari exhibition.

"I don't know. But something tells me she might need some help." Ren comments. With gift finding put on the side for now, the five head over to the shop and call out to Sumire. The moment she sees them, she gives them a weak wave of embarrassment.

"Oh…hello…" She says, greeting them. "I didn't expect to see you here…"

"It's good to see you too Sumire, but…and excuse me if I'm being blunt but…what are you wearing?" Makoto politely asks. Sumire fiddles around with the shirt, giving a weak smile.

"Well…I wanted to change my style, so I went shopping an asked the staff for some recommendations. And she gave me this to try out…" She looks back up at the them. "But to be honest…I'm not feeling it…"

"Nope. I don't know who designed that, but it does not fit you at all." Minako says, shaking her head. "Alright. Change back into your other clothes. We'll help you find something."

"Huh? Is that alright?" Sumire asks. Ren and Makoto shrug at each other, saying they were okay to kill time so a restaurant would open up. While Minato and Yu agreed mainly due to helping them find a gift. Not that they said that.

Time passes as the group pick out different styles for her. Jumpers, shirts, dresses. All of them a variety of styles. Yet nothing seemed to click.

"Hmm… All these clothes are very stylish…but I'm not sure I'd really want to be seen in them. How do I want to be seen?"

"Unfortunately, that's a question only you can answer." Makoto replies.

"Yeah. Everyone has their own sense of style unique to them. We can help along by removing styles that don't fit, but finding the right one is all down to you." Yu adds. Sumire nods absentmindedly, looking back over a rack of clothes until she spots a hint of violet.

Without thinking, she walks over to it and picks it up, showing it to be a simple violet dress with a skirt that stops just above her knees. With a white collar.

"This dress…it looks perfect." She says, showing it to the others.

"Well come on! Let's put it on them!" Minako says, taking her by the hand and pulling her over to the changing room. One quick change later, and she walked out with the dress on. Giving it a twirl, she smiles at her choice before looking at the others.

"How does it look?" She asks, slightly nervous.

"It looks great." Ren says, smiling softly.

"I agree. It fits your style." Makoto replies, pushing some hair back.

"Way better than what you had before." Minako readily agrees while Minato nods in reply.

"You have found your own style. Be proud." Yu remarks calmly, folding his arms. Sumire beams at them, before quickly moving to by the outfit.

"I'm so glad I found something good." She comments, holding the bag with her new dress.

"So, did you find your answer?" Ren asks, noting how the crowds had gotten slightly lighter.

"Yes. I realised something while searching. When I found this piece, I fell in love with it. As though I had found a missing part of myself. It sounds strange, but that's how I felt." Sumire replies, looking around. "And…I wonder if it will catch his eye."

"Who's eye?" Minako asks with a grin, as Sumire turns beet red.

"N-Nothing!" She quickly says, shaking her head. "A-Anyway, today was really important for me. I…never really made decisions like this before. Kasumi was always the one to pick perfect things for me, so I never thought id have to. But…doing it myself, it feels validating. And confidant. This must be what Coach was trying to tell me… What Kasumi wanted me to feel…"

"Its possible." Minato replies. "Sibling bonds work in strange ways."

"And what do you mean by that, oh brother of mine?" Minako asks, folding her arms and raising an eyebrow. Ren, Yu and Sumire chuckle at the two, while Ren sees the eighth star from on her card.

"We should head home now. I managed to pick something up, so I'm good. How about you two?" Yu ask, holding up a bag. The twins hold up their own bags, proving their perches as the group split up for the night.

Growing one day closer to the inevitable clash.

January 19th, 2017

"I think we have almost recovered enough to return to the Palace. I must admit, the wait has not been the best." Akechi comments, sipping some of his coffee in LeBlanc.

"I know. But we all agreed it was so we would not hurt ourselves. And besides, with how many of us there are, we can get through it in one day." Ren replies confidently, earning a chuckle out of Akechi,

"I suppose you are right. We do have the numbers on our side. Akechi admits before the chime on the door rings. Turning to it, they see Sumire walking in with her new dress. After taking off her winter coat, Akechi looks at her in awe while Ren smirks at him.

Gotcha.

"Sorry for dropping in like this. I hope it's not too much trouble." She says, hanging her coat up and taking a seat next to Akechi.

"It's no problem. The Café is empty right now." Ren replies as Akechi snaps out of his daze.

"It's nice to see you two Sumire. And that is a very nice dress you have on." He admits, not knowing that a slight blush was on his cheeks.

"Thank you." Sumire replies happily. "The reason why I'm here is that I needed to speak to someone about something. And I was in the area so I figured I would come here. I'm surprised Hifumi isn't here."

"She had to go out and grab something. She'll be back later." Ren replies with Sumire accepting it.

"So, what is it you want to tell us?" Akechi asks kindly.

"Well, I know I could say this over group chat, but what I wanted to say was that I'm ready to show Coach Hiraguchi my performance now. It will be in a few days' time, so I was hoping that everyone would be able to come. If that's okay?" Sumire reveals.

"That's fine with me. And I'm sure everyone would be delighted to see your performance. How about you Akechi?" Ren asks, hitting the ball into Akechi's corner.

"Well…I am sure I could spare time for it. It would be very poor of me to miss it." He replies, swirling his cup.

"Great! I'm so glad!" Sumire says, giving Akechi a one arm hug, before suddenly scooting away from him with a blush. While Ren forces a smirk to stay hidden.

I had a feeling… Just like all the others.

"But, that was not the only thing I wanted o talk about." Sumire suddenly says, grabbing their attention. "I was thinking about Kasumi again. I was wondering how she must have felt. Thinking she didn't want to lose to me, and wanting me to watch her… Maybe that's what we had in common. We both wanted someone specific to see our efforts—to see us as we are. As long as we have that someone watching us, we can stay strong."

"So you finally realised that was where her strength came from. I'm proud you managed to find the answer on your own." Akechi says with a smile while Sumire pouts.

"Of course you already knew…" She mumbles, before giving out a giggle.

"That you were the one she was thinking of." Ren says with a smile as Sumire nods/

"Yes. Still…I can't believe it took me this long to figure it out…I'm such an idiot." Sumire says, shaking her head. "But I'm glad I finally figured it out. Even as worthless as I am, I hope I still helped Kasumi somehow…"

"Well, I for one know that you did." Akechi says, drawing her eyes. "Whenever we talked, she would always say how proud she was of you. How you helped inspired her to keep going. And I am sure she would be happy to see you rediscover yourself." He places a hand on her shoulder instinctively, not even registering the motion.

"I know. Now, I want to live for both of us for the sake of everything we wanted. I want to grow even stronger. Even if I end up in tears at a meet, or if the pressure's too much for me sometimes… With Kasumi's confidence and the grace she recognised in me, I'm going to keep going. I'm going to show Kasumi who Sumire Yoshizawa really is."

"And I'm sure she would be amazed at what she saw." Ren replies, watching as the ninth star formed on her card. But now, it was time to play matchmaker. "Sorry, but I just remembered something I left in the attic." He says abruptly, leaving his apron near the bar and heading upstairs. Leaving the two alone in quiet silence as they wondered in their thoughts.

"Um…Akechi? There's…something else that's been on my mind." Sumire says shyly, earning his attention.

"Oh?" Akechi responds.

"I realised something, back when we where in Shido's Palace. Or…maybe it was The Streets, I can exactly remember." She shakes her head, trying to take a calming breath. "But, at the time, I brushed it away as a one off thing. But now…after rediscovering who I am and breaking away from Maruki's reality…I've finally understood what I've been feeling."

"And…what would this feeling be?" Akechi asks, wondering what it is.

"That it was less off a matter of showing off, and wanting someone to watch me. Someone special, watching me. And, when I thought that, you were the first one to come to my mind. And…when I realised that, I realized that I…lo…l-l-lo…" She stutters, finding herself unable to say the words as her face turns beat red. "Before shaking her head and squeezing her eyes shut. "I'm in love with you!" She finally manages to get out as Akechi looks on, speechless.

"I know that people see us a stepsiblings in a way, but that doesn't change how I feel." She keeps her eyes closed, not looking at Akechi's reaction. "I love you, Akechi." She sits in silence, waiting for Akechi's answer. Until she felt a hand gently take hers.

"You are not the only one who came to that realisation, Sumire." Akechi says slowly. Sumire opens her eyes to find Akechi's face as red as hers, but with a smile. "As you know, I unwillingly joined Sho to keep you and our parents safe. But in truth, I was terrified of losing you. And when I found out you were a Persona user, my heart almost exploded with joy that you were immune to Shido's threats. But…it was when we were in Maruki's Palace that I finally realised what my feelings were to you. And…they are the same." He gently pulls her in, letting her rest her head on his shoulder. "I love you too, Sumire. No matter what happens after we defeat Maruki, my feelings won't change."

Sumire lets out a tear of joy, snuggling into Akechi as she smiles softly. "I'm the same way." She says, as the two enjoy the cosy atmosphere of Leblanc. Unaware of the small audience they had.

"About time. I was wondering how long it would take until those two would stop dancing around each other." Ren whispers to Hifumi as the two, plus Morgana, carefully sneak back upstairs.

"The signs were there. All that was needed was a boost to Sumire's confidence." Hifumi replies. "Even so, I am happy for them."

"Yeah." Morgana replies, hoping on the futon. "I wonder how our Akechi would have reacted to this Akechi."

"Probably would have started insulting him at first glance, before telling him to live his life to the fullest. A life he could never have." Ren replies, looking out the window. "At least, that's what I think would have happened." Morgana and Hifumi silently agree, letting the new couple downstairs enjoy the quiet serene.

For everyone needed some quiet in their lives.

January 21st, 2017

This was it. Her time to show off everything she had learned to her Coach. The real her. Was Sumire scared? Nervous? Of course she was. But that fear was tempered by a burning desire to get it right. To show the world that she is Sumire Yoshizawa.

And she would not be alone.

"You made it!" She cries out, seeing Ren and everyone else arrive at her practice, including Akechi, to whom she briefly gives a hug and peck on the cheek. It was a funny feeling, to see someone you've know your entire childhood as your romantic partner, but that only helped boost her confidence.

"I would be crazy to miss this." Akechi remarks as the two separate.

"Like any of us would miss out." Ren replies, nodding to a few extra people. "And it's not just us." Sumire looks over, beaming at seeing Yu, Minako and Minato were here as well.

"I'm glad you all came." Sumire reply, glancing around. My Coach isn't here yet. I usually get pretty nervous when she watches. She's been teaching me for so long, I don't want to let her down."

"You won't let her down." Makoto tells her, pushing some hair behind her ear.

"That's right, you've got this!" Ann agrees, pumping a fist. Sumire gives of a giggle, before noticing her Coach approach them. Turning she gives her a bow.

"Thank you for taking the time to observe me today. I really want to get an unbiased evaluation from you."

"Well, you have a good look on your face Sumire." Hiraguchi remarks with a smile.

"Yes, ma'am. I am confident in the routine I'm about to perform." Sumire replies, a fire in her eyes. A fire that Hiraguchi sees, and nods acceptingly.

"Well, with that fire in your eyes I'd say you look like you have got it all figure out—but! I'm here to gauge your performance, not just let you brag about it. Let's see it." Hiraguchi motions to the mat, with Sumire eagerly taking to the mat. And taking up a starting pose that was completely different to what she usually does.

Something that already grabbed Hiraguchi's attention.

"Even her starting pose has changed…" She remarks, looking at the group. "Was this your doing?" She asks coyly.

"Maybe." Ren replies, the group stifling any chuckles as Sumire begins. The team watch in silence as Sumire goes through her motions. Bold and aggressive, yet tempered by delicateness and gentleness. As perfect fusion of the two sisters styles. One that her Hiraguchi's attention the entire time.

Eventually, her performance came to end and, with heavy breathing, Sumire turns to the group and bows. "Thank you for watching!" She says to the, as Hiraguchi remains silent. The team hold their breath, waiting for her reply.

As Hiraguchi smiles softly.

"You've grown so much, Sumire." She says, stepping forward, grabbing her attention. "I'm sure this is no surprise to you, but the path to international success will be difficult. Harsh and Relentless. Are you ready?"

"Absolutely!" Sumire shouts with complete confidence. "I WILL be number one in the gymnastics world! I will make our dream a reality!" Sumire's answer made Hiraguchi's smile even wider.

"Glad to hear you're so sure. With your natural grace, and dedication to reach the gauntlet, no matter how far it is from your grasp, your dream is no longer impossible. And, you're the one who decided that, not me." At Sumire's head tilt, she explained. "You didn't even realise it, did you? Today is the first time you've told me you'll win on an international level. Before, all you told me was, 'I hope I'll win'. Perhaps you have someone special…someone who makes you want to dance just for them."

Sumire's eyes wander over to Akechi, blushing slightly. Hiraguchi follows her eyes, smiling to herself.

"Your performance today was truly impressive. I look forward to your next lesson already." With a smile and a wave, Coach Hiraguchi leaves the building with a smile.

"She…liked my routine." Sumire says with awe.

"What did we say! We told you would nail it!" Minako says with a cheer.

"Indeed. It was truly an impressive dance." Yusuke says with a smile.

"I believe it is safe to say that the slump you were in no longer exists." Hifumi says, curling some hair around her finger.

"Level up, get!" Futaba cheers to the sky.

"Thank you, everyone. It feels like I've finally found my own footing. At least, that's how I feel." Sumire replies. "Thanks to all of you, I feel like I've found the answer I've been searching for…as well was discovering what is most important to me while performing. Now, I can now show everyone how I really feel. And to quote Morgana during our fight with Yaldabaoth, all of us, together as one, can take the world!" Sumire shouts, throwing a hand into the air as the group cheer her own.

While in Ren's eyes, he could see the tenth and final star form on her card. As Lavenza once again speaks in his mind.

I am thou, thou art I...

Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath.

Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion

and break the yoke of thy heart.

Thou hast awakened to the ultimate secret

of the faith, granting thee infinite power...

And while Ren absorbed the information on how to make the Ruler of the Faith, Maria, Sumire could feel a change within herself.

You have made me proud, Sumire.

Vanadis?

You have climbed your way from the depths of despair and reformed yourself once more. You have taken on your sister's strengths, her vows and dreams as your own and joined them with your own. Such a miraculous growth…cannot be held within this form.

And then, a pulse rings out through her as time slowed to a crawl. Within her mind, Vanadis and Cendrillon appear, floating within the blue void of her heart. Before the two begin to merge in the azure flames.

The Persona that emerged, looked like Cendrillon but at the same time was not. Long silver boots that looked like glass reached up to her thighs before spouting out into a crow link design. Her entire body was snow white, from her skin to the dress and even the long wedding veil from her head. In her left hand was white flowers with green leaves. Matching a similar crow around her head. And a bright, silver jewel was embedded above her skirt.

From today, I am no longer Vanadis. Our path from cinders is at an end, for my true name is…

"Ella…" Sumire breathes, feeling her Persona within herself as she smiles radiantly at the team. "I think we're ready."

"We are." Ren replies, turning to the others. "Tomorrow, we return to Maruki's Palace and finish our route. I don't know what we will find when we go in there, but we have to be prepared for anything." He meets the gaze of each and every one of them, nodding his head.

"It's show time."

Confidant Ranks:

Yaldabaoth: Jester (Rank 10/Max)

Phantom Thieves of Heart: The Fool (Rank 10/Max)

Makoto Nijima: High Priestesses (Rank 10/Max)

Ryuji Sakamoto: Chariot (Rank 10/Max)

Ann Takamaki: Lovers (Rank 10/Max)

Yusuke Kitagawa: Emperor (Rank 10/Max)

Haru Okumura: Empress (Rank 10/Max)

Futaba Sakura: Hermit (Rank 10/Max)

Morgana: Magician (Rank 10/Max)

Mishima Yuuki: Moon (Rank 10/Max)

Suzui Shiho: Charity (Rank 10/Max)

Kasumi Yoshizawa: Faith (Rank 10/Max)

Hifumi Togo: Star (Rank 10/Max)

Sojiro Sakura: Hierophant (Rank 10/Max)

Goro Akechi: Justice (Rank 10/Max)

Sae Nijima: Judgment (Rank 10/Max)

Chihaya Mifune: Fortune (Rank 10/Max)

Munehisa Iwai: Hanged Man (Rank 10/Max)

Tae Takemi: Death (Rank 10/Max)

Sadayo Kawakami: Temperance (Rank 10/Max)

Ichiko Ohya: Devil (Rank 10/Max)

Shinya Oda: Tower (Rank 10/Max)

Toranosuke Yoshida: Sun (Rank 10/Max)

Takuto Maruki: Councillor (Rank 10/Max)

Lavenza (Justine & Caroline): Strength (10/Max)