Persona 5: From Metaverse to Multiverse

by The Real Life Mr. Puzzles

When a new enemy reopens the Metaverse and threatens to destroy all worlds, it'll take more than just one group of Phantom Thieves to pacify this new threat. Note: It's best if you read 'Persona 5: Slice of Life' and 'The Lonely Thief first'. (Sixth entry in the WildCard Fanfiction Multiverse)

5. A Sucker Dies Every Minute

Episode 5: A Sucker Dies Every Minute

(Kingdom of Acceptance - Hoshigami's Throne Room)

It's just moments after Hoshigami, the Falldown Thieves, Claudette, and Sugimura's return from their battle with the Phantom Thieves, Philemon, and the Velvet Room Attendants. The Falldown Thieves, Claudette, and Sugimura are giving Hoshigami a wide berth as he starts destroying furniture, statues, and pillars in his throne room. The Father of Shadows is clearly enraged over our 58 heroes getting away as well as Philemon and the Velvet Room Attendants sticking their collective noses in his business.

As Hoshigami continues his tantrum, throwing the head of a statue at Falldown Ren who nonchalantly ducks out of the way before continuing to watch his boss meltdown.

Hoshigami: Goodman Philemon! I had those dirty rats right where I wanted them, but then that wannabe God and his girls and boy in blue had to swoop in and save them! There's no doubt that Philemon split the Phantom Thieves up so they could cover more ground and go after my fortresses!

Falldown Ren/Joker: My liege, instead of lamenting over this loss, perhaps it would be in our best interest to do something about it.

Hoshigami: That's exactly what I plan on doing! My New Metaverse is split up into four different biomes; the Woodlands of Denial, the Desert of Anger, the Tundra of Bargaining, and the Isles of Depression. All of my fortresses are set up in these biomes, and some of them are more instrumental to my master plan than others. But regardless, we must protect those fortresses at all cost and kill those damn Phantom Thieves on sight! Do I make myself clear?!

All 16: Yes sir!

Just then, another Shadow Ninja enters the Throne Room in a puff of smoke

Shadow Ninja: My liege, I've just received word of two large flashes of light appearing somewhere in the Woodlands of Denial and the Desert of Anger. I believe it might be the Phantom Thieves of Hearts!

Hoshigami: Where exactly did they appear? Were they close to any fortresses?!

Shadow Ninja: The closest fortresses in their respective positions are the Circus in the Woodlands, and the Old Western Town in the Desert.

Hoshigami: I see. Thank you for telling me. You are dismissed.

Shadow Ninja: (Bows) Thank you, father.

The Shadow Ninja throws down another smoke ball and disappears when the smoke clears.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: That circus is one of the fortresses that Hoshigami entrusted me with.

Falldown Zenkichi/Wolf: Just as the town is one of mine.

Falldown Kasumi and Falldown Zenkichi step forward and kneel before Hoshigami.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: Master, please allow Wolf and I the great honor of defending our fortresses from those Phantom Thieves that we detest so much.

Hoshigami: There's nobody else in this room that I'd rather send. I just ask for one thing…(Falldown Kasumi and Falldown Zenkichi look up at Hoshigami who is glowering down at them)...don't fail me!

---

(BGM: 'Counter Identity' by Unison Square Garden)

(Bokura wa koe ga kareru made Sonzai, tsuzukeru (jiizasu))

A three-way split screen shows Ren, Akechi, and Minato in their universes standing on the edge of a building, staring at the sunrise on the horizon. After a while, the three of them jump off of the building and land in the New Metaverse dressed in their Phantom Thief outfits; Joker, Crow, and Lion respectively. Once they land on their feet, they run off into the distance as the title 'P5: Persona 5: From Metaverse to Multiverse' appears

(Me wo samaseba sanjuupon no hikaru no taba wo Iiwaketachi wo tada moteasobu jikan ga yurusu kagiri.)

In the Woodlands of Denial, we see the group of Ren, Makoto, Futaba, Sophia, Kaoru, Sae, Ryuta, Sojiro, Wakaba, Takemi, Ichiko, Takeishi, Toshiro, and Eri riding through the forest in Sputnik's car form; a hummer. The group is taking in the landscape and the Shadows inhabiting the area

In the Desert of Anger, we see the group of Ryuji, Ann, Shiho, Mika, Hayato, Hifumi, Naoya, Kazuya, Daisuke, Zenkichi, Shinya, Akane, Nakaoka, and Chihaya riding across the arid landscape in Morgana's car form. The group is taking in the landscape and the Shadows inhabiting the area

(Soshite subete ga sono iiwake de makanaeru gurai no sekai. Dakara umarete kuru imi toka mo son nani taishita mon janai)

In the Isles of Depression, the group of Akechi, Eiko, Sumire, Ichiro, Kas, Kimiko, Minato, Riku, Mai, Yutaka, Nayoko, Akihiro, and Kana are sailing across the water in Sputnik's Trawler Boat form.

In the Tundra of Bargaining, the group of Haru, Yusuke, Yuuki, Himari, Hotaru, Mana, Mitsu, Nariko, Kaito, Wataru, Kunikazu, Sadayo, Old Morgana, and a sleeping Chikao are seeking refuge from a snowstorm in a cave.

(Nan hyakkai kurikaeshita. Nodde mou ikkai. Hajimatte iku nai teru no? Waratteru no? Tte mou takusanda yo)

Inside Chikao's dream, he's in a dark void when he sees Claudette. Chikao tries to run up to her only for a purple haze to separate them. The purple haze gets so bad that it envelope the entire screen. When the haze clears, viewers are met with the masked gaze of Hoshigami who holds out his scepter, a blue flash of light blinding the viewer

(Hottoite warui me ga haete mo. Sonna me de minaide. Uso tsui chatte. Gomennasai, nante iu tsumori mo nain dakara)

When the light dissipates, we see the likes of Ren/Joker, Ryuji/Skull, Morgana/Mona, Ann/Panther, Yusuke/Fox, Makoto/Queen, Futaba/Oracle, Haru/Noir, Akechi/Crow, Sumire/Violet, Toshiro/Patriot, Eri/Partisan, Sophia/Sophie, and Zenkichi/Wolf standing across from their evil counterparts; The Falldown Thieves. Standing with the Falldown Thieves are Claudette and Sugimura, the latter of whom snaps his fingers causing an earthquake. The heroes retreat as what comes out of the ground next is a giant tortoise like Shadow with a large tree on his back with nine huge glowing pieces of fruit; Shadow Yggdrasil. Joined by the rest of their friends, the 58 Phantom Thieves get ready to fight the Shadow Yggdrasil.

(Bokura wa koe ga kareru made. Sonzai shi tsuzukerundayo. Taiyou ni se o mukenagara)

Shadow Yggdrasil is on the attack, first by summoning Shadow Zombies and Shadow Pterodactyls for the Phantom Thieves to fight. Futaba/Oracle is in the Necronomicon, ready to support her comrades and analyze enemies.

The likes of Sae/Arbiter, Yutaka/Dizzy, Nayoko/Warrioress, Morgana/Mona, Old Morgana/Old Mona, Remus/Tricky, Sputnik/Jinx, Kas/Crash, Sumire/Violet, and Ichiro/Hawk are fighting off the Shadow Zombies.

Meanwhile, the likes of Daisuke/Ace, Ryuta/Owl, Kimiko/Angel, Himari/Bumblebee, Kana/Darner are using their wingpacks to take to the skies and take on the Shadow Pterodactyls. On the ground, we see the likes of Ryuji/Skull, Hotaru/Feature, Akihiro/Mariner, Wataru/Maestro, and Mana/Shogun aiming their attacks at any Shadow Pterodactyls that get too close to them.

The Shadow Yggdrasil fires a Kougaon from his 'Alfheim Fruit' at Shiho/Shinobi, who dodges as she continues to run towards the giant Shadow. Shiho is just distracting the monster so that the other Thieves can attack the Shadow Yggdrasil's fruits.

The likes of Makoto/Queen, Hayato/Romeo, and Kazuya/Courage fire Nuclear Attacks at the Vanaheim Fruit. Haru/Noir, Nariko/Mage, and Chihaya Prophet fire Psy Attacks at the Helheim Fruit. Ichiko/Flapper, Hifumi/Wraith, and Tae/Raven fire Curse Attacks at the Alfheim Fruit. Akechi/Crow, Yuuki/Paladin, Sojiro/Chief fire Bless Attacks at the Niflheim Fruit. Ann/Panther, Shinya/Ranger, and Riku/Clockwork are firing Fire Attacks at the Jotunheim Fruit.

(Anata no koe ga itai hodo ni tsukisasarukara. Dounimo omoidouri ni susumanai Sukoshi damatte yo (Closing Intrumentals))

Yusuke/Fox, Akane/Spirit, Mitsu/Edgerunner, and Sadayo/Lady are firing Ice Attacks at the Muspelheim Fruit. Minato/Lion, Wakaba/Pharaoh, and Nakaoka/Diesel are firing Earth Attacks at the Svartalfheim Fruit. Kaito/Professor and Kunikazu/Colonel are firing Cosmos Attacks at the Midgard Fruit. Mai uses her powers to craft a 'BFG' which she uses to attack the Shadow Yggdrasil's Asgard Fruit. Also attacking the Asgard Fruit is Eiko/Jester, Naoya/Beat, Mika/Cheetah, Kaoru/Spore, Takeishi/Coyote, Zenkichi/Wolf, Sophia/Sophie, Toshiro/Patriot, and Eri/Partisan.

All of the attacks connect and badly damage all nine of the Shadow Yggdrasil's Attack Fruits, allowing Ren/Joker to get up on the giant shadow's back where he comes face-to-face with the Falldown Thieves, Sugimura, Claudette, and the Father of Shadows himself; Hoshigami. Ren/Joker scowls at the villain before said villain look to his side to find Chikao and Sojiro looking up at him in horror.

As Hoshigami turns his attention back to Ren/Joker, he turns his scepter into a sharp, blue scythe as Ren Summons his Persona, Satanael. Hoshigami charges at Ren, who takes out his knives to block Hoshigami's scythe swing.

This battle turns out to be all in Ren's imagination as we then cut to an image of him and the rest of our heroes staring up at Hosghigami's castle in the Kingdom of Acceptance before the intro finally ends.

---

(Woodlands of Denial - Lake Area)

Just as the Shadow Ninja said, a flash of light appears out of nowhere, and out from it comes the group of Ren, Makoto, Futaba, Akechi, Eiko, Kana, Sophia, Sumire, Ichiro, Sae, Ryuta, Sojiro, Kaoru, Takeishi, Ichiko, Sputnik, Remus, Minato, Kimiko, Kas, Akihiro, Yutaka, Nayoko, Riku, Mai, Wakaba, Toshiro, Eri, and Takemi.

The likes of Ren, Makoto, Futaba, Akechi, Sophia, Sumire, Sojiro, Minato, Kimiko, and Toshiro are back in their street clothes as opposed to their Phantom Thief attire. Perhaps most strange of all.

Yutaka: Oh man! That was one wild ride!

Sae: (Looks around) Hang on. Where did everyone else go?

Takeishi: What are you talking about?

Sae: In case you haven't noticed, half of our original group is missing.

Minato: And perhaps more bizarre than that, my Phantom Thief attire is gone and I'm back in my regular clothes.

Kimiko: What gives? Where are my angel wings?

Ren: If I remember correctly, our Phantom Thief attire only appears when we're seen as a threat. Since we disappeared after the battle with Hoshigami and his goons, and they have no idea where we wound up, he doesn't really see us as a threat for the time being. But I have a feeling that if we get close enough to one of his fortresses, or his Shadows come looking for us, we'll be back in action!

Sojiro: So basically, if we get close to anything 'Hoshigami related', I can go back to being Chief.

Ren: (Nods) Sputnik and Remus are only still in their Poppet forms because as long as we're in the Metaverse, this'll be the form that they'll always have.

Remus/Tricky: Okay, so that's one problem solved. But there's still the case of our missing friends.

Minato: Wherever Mana and Mitsu are, I hope they're okay.

Kimiko: Kaito must be worried sick about me.

Riku: And Nariko must be worried about me too.

Makoto: Hold on. Before he sent us away, Philemon gave us that mirror. (Points at the golden mirror in Ren's hand) You think maybe that mirror is a way for us to communicate with the other half of our group.

Ren: (Looks at the mirror only to see his reflection in it) Maybe. But if that's the case, how do you turn it on? There doesn't appear to be any buttons or knobs.

Sputnik/Jinx: (Goes over to Ren and takes the mirror from him) Please, allow me.

Sputnik looks at the mirror for a few seconds before randomly smashing it against the ground, much to the shock and disgust of everyone around her. Eventually, Remus intervenes.

Remus/Tricky: HEY! HEY! HEY! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!

Sputnik/Jinx: (Looks at her brother) What?

Remus/Tricky: You're doing some cool ass shit, that's what you're doing!

Sputnik/Jinx: Yeah, bro, help me out!

With that, Remus and Sputnik continue to smash the mirror together. Annoyed by the two Poppets' actions, Akechi walks up and takes the mirror from them. Miraculously, the mirror hasn't sustained any damage and there's hardly a scratch on it.

Akechi: (As he stares at his reflection) It's so durable.

Eiko: (Appears behind him; sighs lovingly) Such a lovely sight.

Akechi looks behind him to see Eiko swooning over him and he slowly walks away from her as he continues to examine the mirror. Akechi flips the mirror around to find an inscription that reads, 'To communicate with others with a Philemon Mirror, just ask to see him/her'.

Akechi: Hey, Ren, take a look at this.

Ren goes over to Akechi and he reads the inscription on the back of the mirror.

Ren: If I remember correctly, Philemon gave Ryuji another one of these mirrors. So maybe the rest of our group is with him.

Akechi: Only one way to find out.

Akechi hands Ren the mirror and he looks into it.

Ren: (Takes a deep breath) Let me see Ryuji Sakamoto!

Just then, the mirror started to glow in Ren's hand as his reflection turned into static. After a few seconds, Ryuji's face appears on the other end. Behind him, Ren can see the rest of their friends and it looks like they're all in a desert-like environment.

Ryuji: Hello? Is this thing on?

Ren: (Smiles) Ryuji!

Ryuji: Ren?! Oh man, buddy, am I glad to see you!

Ren: (As everyone gathers around him to look into the mirror) Ryuji! Thank God you're alright.

Morgana/Mona: What? You actually got through to Ren and the others? Let me see! (He jumps into frame to see Ren's face on the other end) Hey, Ren!

Ren: Morgana! I'm glad that you're safe too, buddy.

Ryuji: Yeah, we're all fine here, Ren. Take a look! (He calls out) Hey, you guys! Get your asses over here!

And with that, the likes of Ann, Yusuke, Haru, Zenkichi, Chikao, Yuuki, Hifumi, Hayato, Daisuke, Naoya, Shiho, Mika, Shinya, Akane, Nakaoka, Chihaya, Kunikazu, Old Morgana, Himari, Hotaru, Nariko, Kaito, Wataru, Mana, Mitsu, Kazuya, and Sadayo join Ryuji and Morgana in seeing their friends on the other side of the mirror.

Minato: Phew! I'm glad everyone is safe!

Mana & Mitsu: Minato!

Minato: Hey, girls!

Shiho: So, what exactly happened? Last I remembered Philemon and these other four guys were fighting Hoshigami and his goons, but then we all got separated and sent to different parts of the Metaverse.

Ren: My guess is that Philemon was not only trying to protect us from Hoshigami, but he also split us up so we can cover more ground when taking down Hoshigami's fortresses.

Philemon: Ren Amamiya, you couldn't be more correct.

Just then the image on the mirror turns into a split screen as Philemon appears on one half of the screen.

Ryuji: Hey, you're that butterfly mask guy!

Philemon: I have a name, you know.

Akane: You've got a lot of explaining to do, buster!

Philemon: Well, as Ren just said, I had to split you all up into two groups to ensure that you not only get away safely, but so you can cover more ground when bringing down Hoshigami's fortresses.

Wakaba: While I applaud you for coming up with this brilliant idea, I can't help but see one problem with it. Given that we're two smaller groups that means we have less Phantom Thieves than what we started out with. At least when we were one group there were 19 of us who could fight. But in our group there's now 12 Phantom Thieves, while Ryuji's group has seven.

Philemon: I realize that, Wakaba Isshiki, but my hope is that each and everyone of you awaken to your own Persona and become Phantom Thieves so that when it comes time for you all to face Hoshigami again, you'll all be more than a match for him.

Mai: We just hope you know what you're doing, Philey.

Philemon: You have nothing to worry about, Mai Tanaka. Everything will work out for us in the end.

Mai: Actually it's Mai Tanaka-Mishima. When Kas and I married we agreed to hyphen our last names.

Philemon: My sincerest. But now, back to the matter at hand. Ryuji, Ren, ask to see the map.

Ren: Map?

Philemon: Go on, do it.

Ren & Ryuji: Let me see the map!

And just like that, on both Ren and Ryuji's respective mirrors a holographic map of the New Metaverse appears. In this map, we see blinking green and red dots that are supposed to represent Hoshigami's Fortresses, and blue dots that represent our heroes' current position. All 58 heroes look at the holographic map in awe as Philemon starts talking again

Philemon: As you can see there are a total of 31 Fortresses scattered throughout the New Metaverse. All of them pose a threat, but some pose a bigger threat than others as a few of them are key parts in Hoshigami's bigger scheme to take over the multiverse. The ones that are a part of Hoshigami's master plan are the dots that are blinking red.

Kana: So, if those red ones are the Fortresses that are the most important to Hoshigami, wouldn't it make more sense to go after those ones first?

Philemon: In theory, yes. However, those fortresses are likely heavily guarded and I don't think you're all ready to handle them just yet, not until more of you become Phantom Thieves that is. But back on topic. These fortresses contain two things that you might be interested in; the Kiyoi Flower and Hoshigami's seals.

Ichiro: Oh yeah! We know what those do! The Kiyoi Flowers can be used to make Healing Shots so we can change the hearts of Hoshigami and his goons, and the seals are so we can destroy the barrier protecting Hoshigami and his Kingdom of Acceptance.

Philemon: That's correct! How ever did you know?

Chikao: (Steps forward) I told them. Mister Philemon, I don't know if you know this or not, but my name is Chikao Shinoda. My wife Claudette is on Hoshigami's side, but I managed to escape from his castle so I could try and find you so we could rebel against him together.

Philemon: I see. Well, Chikao, thank you for joining our cause. I promise you that we'll not only bring down Hoshigami, but also save your wife from what she's become.

Chikao: That means the world to me, your greatness. Thank you!

Philemon: Well, it seems you don't need me to explain things to you. You seem to have the whole situation under control. I just ask that once you bring down each fortress, you come find me at my Village of Hope. By then, the Velvet Room Attendants and I will have gathered the other Phantom Thieves from across the Multiverse. Then, we can save Igor, the other Poppets, and storm Hoshigami's Kingdom of Acceptance.

Ryuji:Looking forward to it, Philemon!

Nariko: Just one problem. These fortresses look pretty far from our current positions. How are we going to get to them all in a timely manner?

On their respective ends of the mirror, the two Morganas, Sputnik, and Remus give off a cocky smirk.

Sputnik/Jinx: This is the part of being a Poppet that I love.

Remus/Tricky: Me too!

Morgana/Mona: Stand back, boys and girls! Check this out!

With that, and on their respective ends of the mirror, the two Morganas, Sputnik, and Remus turn into their car forms. Morgana turned into his usual Citroen H Van, Old Morgana turned into a similar van only more rusted and with a couple of dents in the body, Sputnik turned into a Ford Transit, and Remus turned himself into a Hummer. Our heroes look at their Poppets' vehicle forms and smile.

Ichiko: Oh yeah! We're riding to these fortresses in style, baby!

Mika: Speak for yourself. In our case we have an old van and an even crappier old van!

Old Morgana/Old Mona: Quit your whining and hop in!

Philemon: Well, you all know your objectives. Just know that you can always communicate with one another as long as you have those mirrors. But with that said, I must leave you all now. Bring down Hoshigami's Fortresses and awaken to your Personas. You all are the multiverse's only hope now.

Kimiko: We won't let you down, Philemon!

Philemon: I know you won't, Kimiko Watanabe. Goodbye, and good luck!

As Philemon signs off, our heroes are ready to sign off of the mirror as well so they could get to work on taking down Philemon's fortresses.

Ren: Goodbye and good luck to you guys too!

Ryuji: Thanks, Ren. Don't go getting yourself killed. I want to share some of Hoshigami's ass kicking with you guys too!

Ren: We wouldn't dream of dying on you, Ryuji!

Makoto: Just worry about yourselves, and we'll see you in Philemon's Village of Hope.

Himari: Be safe out there, Other Mother. (Looks over at Minato, Kimiko, Riku, Mai, Yutaka, Akihiro, Nayoko, and Kas) You guys look out for each other too, you hear?

Minato: Will do, Himari.

Ryuji: (Looks at the rest of his group) Alright, dudes, let's go fuck some shit up!

Ryuji's group cheers as the video message cuts out. Ren and his group board Sputnik and Remus' vehicle forms. The people riding in each of the two Poppets are as follows.

People Riding Remus: Ren, Makoto, Eiko, Sumire, Ichiro, Kas, Yutaka, Nayoko, Sae, Ryuta, Sophia, Kaoru, Takemi

People Riding Sputnik: Akechi, Wakaba, Minato, Kimiko, Riku, Mai, Futaba, Kana, Sojiro, Akihiro, Toshiro, Eri, Takeishi, Ichiko

Once they're all safely on board, with Ren in the driver's seat of Remus and Akechi in the driver's seat of Sputnik, Ren takes out the mirror to look at the map.

Ryuta: Where to, Ren?

Ren: (Looking at the map) The closest fortress is this big circus tent.

Remus/Tricky: Sounds good to me. Next stop, the circus!

Remus and Sputnik peel out and they all make a beeline for the first of Hoshigami's Fortresses: A big old circus tent!

---

(Woodlands of Denial - Path to the Circus)

Sometime later, the group covering the East of New Metaverse are inching ever closer to the circus.

Remus/Tricky: We're almost there, guys. I can feel it.

Yutaka: Good. I need to stretch my legs.

We cut to the inside of Remus' Hummer form where we see the 13 Phantom Thieves riding inside of him chilling out, conversing, or in Takemi's case, resting up before they arrive.

Takeni: (Snore) Mmm, Asahi, baby…put your hands all over me…

Yutaka and Nayoko look over at Takemi as she continues to dream about her boyfriend back at home.

Yutaka: Huh. Never knew it was possible for girls to have wet dreams.

Nayoko: Oh, it's possible.

Yutaka: How do you know?

Nayoko: (Blushes) Oh…I think I've said too much already.

Nayoko and Yutaka then turn their attention to Sae and Ryuta who were just having a friendly conversation.

Yutaka: I really hope those two get together.

Nayoko: Don't forget this is an entirely different version of Uncle Ryuta and Auntie Sae, Yutaka. So don't be too disappointed if they end up falling for someone else.

Yutaka: (Continues watching Sae and Ryuta's conversation, and Ryuta must have said something that made Sae giggle) No, I think they're meant to be in this universe too. I know that giggle. Ha-ha would giggle like that whenever chi-chi would cuddle her. Trust me, Nayoko. By journey's end, those two will be together.

Nayoko: (Shrugs her shoulders) If you say so.

As that was going on, we see Karou and Sophia having a conversation as well. Sophia seems very happy to have her 'real world' body back.

Sophia: I'm very glad to have the body that Kuon made for me back, even if it is until we get to the next Fortress.

Kaoru: Not for nothing, Soph, but your 'battle body' is very nice too.

Sophia: I'm glad you think so, Kaoru.

Kaoru: But I do understand your disdain for reverting to your original form. From what I understand you were never able to enjoy the simple pleasures that humans could enjoy, but this new body that Kuon made for you makes doing what we do possible.

Sophia: Precisely. Although, since this is a robotic body I don't have the same features that humans do. For example, even though I can eat, I don't have a stomach to digest food with. Instead, once I ingest something, I get a read on the texture of flavors of whatever it was that I just consumed. And then, with a built in heating system that Kuon put inside of me, any food or drink I ingest gets instantly vaporized.

Kaoru: So, you don't even have to use the bathroom?

Sophia: Nope. Still though, it would be nice to know what it's like to have organs and bones inside of me. Can you tell me what it's like?

Kaoru: You want to know what it's like to have organs and bones?

Sophia: Yeah.

Kaoru: (Disturbed) I…I don't know how to respond to that. But, I have another question for you, Sophia.

Sophia: What is it?

Kaoru: You're a robot, but you're capable of showing human emotions. (Blushes) Does that mean you can experience love?

Sophia: I…I don't know. I haven't tried. Why do you ask?

Kaoru: Uh…no reason. It's dumb. Forget I said anything.

Sophia: Oh, okay.

In another part of Remus' interior, we see Kas sitting behind where Ichiro and Sumire are seated. Kas tries to interact with the other version of her mother in an attempt to know her a little better.

Kas: So, Other Mother, what's going on in your world?

Sumire: Eh, nothing much

Kas: Do you want to talk or anything?

Sumire: Not really. I'm just going to try and get a few winks in before we reach our destination. (Leans against the window and closes her eyes)

Kas: (Disappointed) Oh, okay.

As soon as Kas was sure Sumire was asleep, she confided in Ichiro.

Kas: So what's her deal? She's been acting weird ever since we met.

Ichiro: Don't take it to heart, Kas. I don't know how your universe's version of Sumire is with you, but here she was raised to believe that love is meant to be strictly between a man and a woman. So I guess the idea that, in another universe, she has a gay daughter, it kind of weirded her out.

Kas: How odd. Because where I come from, it's your side of the family that was the conservative ones and the Yoshizawas were the cool ones. But, I guess that means you and your father never had a falling out in your universe.

Ichiro: Oh, believe me, my father never loved the idea of me becoming a gymnast. But unlike your universe's version of my father, in my universe he's aware of how dangerous gymnastics could get and he tried to prevent me from performing so I wouldn't hurt myself. But, recently, my father and I came to an understanding. I told him that it was my life to live and I want to do what makes me truly happy.

Kas: At least you got your happy ending with him sooner than my universe's version of you. In my universe, you and grandpa never made amends until you were in your mid-40s.

Ichiro: Yikes!

Kas: Yeah, not fun. But anyway, there's gotta be something I can do to get on Other Mother's good side.

Kas thinks for a few seconds before coming up with a solution.

Kas: Wait a minute! Other Father, you and Other Mother aren't together in your timeline yet, right? Or rather, I should be asking, do you have feelings for Other Mother.

Ichiro: I've known Sumire for the last 10 years of my life, and in that time I feel as though we've gotten very close. I'd love nothing more than to tell her how I really feel about her.

Kas: Perfect! Because for my plan, I'm going to play matchmaker! I'm going to try to get you and Other Mother together, so that way when you two are all happy and basking in each other's embrace, Other Mother will feel eternally grateful towards me for getting you two together, and she'll see that I'm not such a bad person.

Ichiro: Well that sounds crazy enough to work.

Kas: Alright! Let's get you crazy kids to fall in love!

While Ichiro and Kas were plotting, Makoto and Eiko were talking about the latter's affections towards Goro Akechi.

Makoto: So, you and Akechi, huh?

Eiko: Yeah. I don't know what it is. He's just so dreamy!

Makoto: Are you sure you want to go after him? I mean, for one thing he's from another universe, and for another, he comes from a universe where he witnessed me, Ren, and all of our friends dying before his very eyes. I'd be surprised if he didn't have at least some emotional baggage from that.

Eiko: Mako-chan, there's no doubt in my mind. I'm in love! But I just can't seem to get him to notice me.

Makoto: Well, like I said, he probably has a lot of emotional baggage and trauma from witnessing his universe's version of us getting killed right in front of him, and he probably doesn't want to experience grief like that again, so he's going to push anyone and everyone away from him so he doesn't get too attached.

Eiko: That's no way to live.

Makoto: I know. But, anyway, if you're really serious about seeking a relationship with Akechi, let me start by saying that you're coming on too strong.

Eiko: What do you mean?

Makoto: Well, earlier you got uncomfortably close to him while he was examining that mirror that Philemon gave us. And before that, you called Akechi, 'baby'. Relationships and love are not meant to be rushed, Eiko.

Eiko: Well, you and Ren are still going strong. So, tell me, what do I need to know about love? Show me your ways, Mako-chan.

Makoto: Well, you see, dating is like baking a cake. You want to make sure you have all of the ingredients you need so that it turns out just right, and you want to make sure that it stays baking in the oven just long enough to get the best results. If you go into a relationship lacking key ingredients like honesty and respect, or if you go too fast or slow in a relationship, that cake is going to be completely inedible, and you'll have to throw it away.

Eiko: So you're saying go slow with Akechi but not too slow.

Makoto: Precisely. Look, I have a feeling that we're going to have to split up in order to search for this Kiyoi Flower when we get to the first fortress. Why don't you go with Akechi and just try talking to him. You know, get a gauge on what his likes and dislikes are so you get to know him better and see if you guys have anything in common.

Eiko: Alright, Mako-chan, I'll try it your way. Thanks for the advice.

Makoto: Anytime.

As Makoto and Eiko hug, Ren, who is in the driver's seat, looks back at the other 12 with him before retreating to his own thoughts.

Ren: I wonder what's going on inside of Sputnik?

---

Inside of Sputnik, we see the likes of Minato, Kimiko, Riku, Mai, Futaba, Kana, Akihiro, Takeishi, Eri, Wakaba, and Ichiko having a sing-along. The nine of them are singing 'Rubberband Man' while Akechi sits in the driver's seat paying attention to what's in front of him, Sojiro is sound asleep, and Toshiro has a smile on his face as he bops his head to the beat.

Akechi looks behind him to see his comrades having a good time and this sight causes his, up until this point, stoic expression to change into an expression with a small smile on his face. Akechi starts bopping his own head to the beat of the group's singing, and he's slowly but surely warming up to everyone.

As everyone continues to have a good time, suddenly, a flash of light briefly envelops the likes of Akechi, Kimiko, Minato, Sojiro, Futaba, and Toshiro. When the light fades, the six of them are back in their Phantom Thief outfits.

Kimiko/Angel: Alright! I've got my wings back!

Akechi/Crow: Then that can mean only one thing.

Sputnik/Jinx: We're here!

Sputnik and Remus eventually come to a clearing in the forest and in that clearing is the giant circus tent. They've made it to Kasumi's Carnival!

---

(Woodlands of Denial - Kasumi's Carnival)

Sputnik and Remus stop in front of the front gates to the carnival to let everyone off before they turn back into their Poppet forms. The group of 29 stare at the circus/carnival that stands before them. Past the gates was the aforementioned giant red-and-purple circus tent. Surrounding the tent are an assortment of smaller tents and booths for food and games.

Eri: So this is the first fortress we have to take down?

Riku: It's quite a lively place.

Ren/Joker: Make no mistakes, everyone. This place may look like your average county fair, but it's anything but. Take a look inside.

Our heroes take a peek inside to see the fairground swarming with Shadows that have taken the form of clowns, magicians, and carnival barkers.

Ren/Joker: Stay on your guard, everyone. And don't do anything to arouse suspicion.

Minato/Lion: Gotcha!

The group of 29 walk into the fairgrounds and approach the big circus tent in the heart of the fairgrounds.

Kas: That Kiyoi Flower has to be in this big circus tent. Come on!

Kas leads everyone to the tent, but just as she reaches the entrance, she's stopped by a Shadow Barker who holds his cane out in front of her to restrain her.

Shadow Barker #1: Oh, ho! Sorry there, girlie, but I can't let just anyone into the big top tent. At least not without our carnival's four golden tickets.

Kas: You're kidding, right?

Mai: Did you really think it would be that easy to break into the tent, babe?

Kas: Kind of.

Ren/Joker: If it were that easy then literally anyone and everyone would be Phantom Thieves. (Turns his attention to the barker) What do we have to do to earn these golden tickets?

Shadow Barker #1: I'm glad you asked, stranger! Here in our fabulous carnival are four fabulous games. Winning each game just one time will earn you a golden ticket. Once you have all four, come back here and I'll let you inside where your destiny is sure to await you.

Makoto/Queen: And what exactly is inside this tent?

Kas: Like you even have to ask. We all know this guy is guarding that Kiyoi Flower. There's only one of him and 29 of us! Why don't we bum rush him?

Ren/Joker: Because then we'd have all of the other Shadows present on our tail, and we don't want that.

Kas: (Groans) Fine. This guy wants us to play his games, we'll play his games.

Shadow Barker #1: That's right! Now don't come back until you've earned all four golden tickets! But please, do take your time while exploring our dear carnival. You'll find that we have everything, poorly checked rides, stale sugary foods, cheap toys, Roman J. Israel Esq., everything! So, go on, enjoy yourselves, you hear?

Minato/Lion: We will, thank you sir.

The group of 29 walk away from the big top tent and discuss their next course of action.

Toshiro/Patriot: Alright. So it looks like we need tickets if we want to get inside of that tent.

Ryuta: Not only that, but we need to play games to earn them.

Mai: But there are so many tents in this place. How are we supposed to know which ones are the ones handing out tickets?

Ren/Joker: It would be wise if we split up and search the fairgrounds.

Eiko: Oh! Oh! I want to go in whatever group Crow is in!

Makoto/Queen: (Whispers in Eiko's ear) Remember what I said about subtlety.

Eiko: Oops! I mean, I would like to be paired up with Crow if that's okay.

Wakaba: (Whispers in Akechi's ear) I think that Eiko girl likes you.

Akechi/Crow: What was your first clue?

Ren/Joker: Alright, team, let's split up and find those tickets!

With that, the group splits up in search for any booths that are giving out golden tickets. The divisions are as follows.

Group 1: Ren, Makoto, Akihiro, Takemi, Kana, Sae, and Ryuta

Group 2: Minato, Kimiko, Remus, Futaba, Wakaba, Sojiro, Riku, and Mai

Group 3: Akechi, Eiko, Sputnik, Yutaka, Nayoko, Takeishi, and Ichiko

Group 4: Sumire, Ichiro, Kas, Toshiro, Eri, Sophia, and Kaoru

---

With Group 1, they are searching their part of the fairgrounds for a game that hands out golden tickets as a prize.

Takemi: You know, I haven't been to a carnival since I was a little girl. Every summer my father would always take me to the fair and he'd buy me any type of sweet I wanted…all so I could throw it back up on the rides. Ah, memories.

Makoto/Queen: Wow, doc, we've never really heard you talk about your childhood before.

Takemi: I didn't think anyone would care.

Ryuta: Right now I'm surprised to hear you actually had parents. No joke, up until this exact moment, I thought you were an orphan.

Takemi: (Sarcastically) I get it, because of my dark sense of humor and eccentricities, I must be an orphan who uses these quirks as a coping mechanism.

Ryuta: Uh, no, I didn't mean it like that.

Takemi: (Chuckles and nudges him) Relax, Ryuta, I'm just fucking with you.

Ryuta: (Blushes in embarrassment) Yeah, sure, I knew that.

The group of seven continue to walk until Kana spots something; a sign with a picture of a golden ticket on it, and beneath that sign was another Carnival Barker Shadows standing next to a cornhole game with three holes.

Kana: Hey, guys, look over there!

Kana points at the cornhole game and her other six teammates see that that's where they can get their first golden ticket.

Ren/Joker: Good eye, Kana! Come on, let's go check it out!

The group of seven walk up to the Carnival Barker Shadow so they could talk to him.

Barker #2: Ah, just what I like to see, seven plucky suck- I mean, customers! Now I assume you're here to win yourselves a golden ticket?

Akihiro: That's correct, sir.

Barker #2: Well, let me tell you how to play this game. Next to me I have a board with three holes, and in front of it are three beanbags. (Kneels down and presses a switch on the board, which causes the rim of one of the holes to start glowing) To win your golden ticket, you must throw your bean bag in the glowing hole. Do this three times and the ticket is yours! So, what do you say? Are either of you up for the challenge?

Akihiro: Oh, ho! This one's on me, guys! (Cracks his knuckles) Back in Ine Fishing Village, I was known as the 'Cornhole Champ'! This should be a snap!

Barker #2: Oh, a confident fellow? I like that! (Hands Akihiro the three beanbags) Well, let's see if your aim is as good as you say it is.

Ren/Joker: Good luck, Akihiro!

Akihiro: Thanks, Ren, but I don't need luck. Not while I have impeccable aim!

With that, Akihiro threw his first beanbag at the glowing hole. As the bag flies through the air and towards the hole however, the Barker had his hand in his pocket where a small remote was placed. The barker presses a button on the remote and before the beanbag could go inside the glowing hole, the light on the hole disappears and a different hole starts glowing. As a result, the beanbag goes into the hole that ceased glowing.

Akihiro: What?!

Barker #2: Oh, tough luck, buddy!

Akihiro: No, that's bullcrap! I had that! Let me try again!

Barker #2: (Reaches into the hole and gives Akihiro the beanbag back) Suit yourself.

Akihrio, once again, takes careful aim before throwing the beanbag towards the glowing hole. But, like before, the Barker presses the button and the hole stops glowing as the third hole begins to glow. The beanbag falls into the dimmed hole, meaning Akihiro had lost again.

Akihiro: You've gotta be kidding me!

Barker #2: Would you like to try a third time and risk embarrassing yourself?

Akihiro: Buddy, back home, I'm the father of a rambunctious and energetic six year old boy! Embarrassment is my middle name!

Barker #2: (Hands Akihiro the bean bag so he can try again) Clearly.

And with that, Akihiro continues to play the cornhole game, with the Barker secretly cheating all the while.

---

Meanwhile, with Group 2, they're walking along in search of a game booth that's giving away golden tickets. As they walk, Wakaba is taking a look at her surroundings before looking over at Sojiro who is just minding his business.

Wakaba: (In her thoughts) Being at a carnival with Sojiro, even if it's another version of Sojiro, really brings back memories of the first outing we had with Futaba. Futaba really wanted a plush kitty that one of the games were offering as a prize and Sojiro won it on the first try. Just thinking about it makes me miss Sojiro and especially my Futaba. (She looks over at Futaba) Just like I'm sure that Futaba misses her version of me.

Sojiro/Chief: Hey, Wakaba? (Wakaba turns to look at Sojiro) Are you feeling okay?

Wakaba: Yeah, Sojiro, just thinking about my world's version of you and what he must be up to right now.

Sojiro/Chief: From what I've heard you and your universe's version of me had a falling out after your Futaba died. You know, it wouldn't hurt to get in contact with your Sojiro when you get back home. I'm sure he'd love to hear from you.

Wakaba: That's exactly what Sputnik said.

Sojiro/Chief: We've only known her for a short while, but I can safely say that Sputnik is a pretty wise rabbit.

Wakaba: Mmm-hmm. But, Sojiro, I've been meaning to ask you something. Where you come from, your universe's version of me died at the hands of your universe's Akechi. I assume you had the same feelings for me and my version of Sojiro did?

Sojiro/Chief: Of course, Wakaba. You were my best friend and the only woman I've ever dated that genuinely loved me for me. After my universe's version of you died, I didn't have it in me to start dating again. And to this day I still haven't gone on a date.

Wakaba: Can I ask why?

Sojiro/Chief: I don't know. I guess, in my eyes, you were irreplaceable. In my eyes, there will never be another woman like you.

Wakaba: You won't know for sure until you put yourself out there again, you know. Every ending is a new beginning. Don't let the death of the other me be the end of your story. Really seek out your happy ending. I know you can find it, Sojiro, I believe in you.

Sojiro/Chief: (Smiles) Thank you, Wakaba.

Wakaba: And who knows, if I can't patch things up with my version of Sojiro, and if you can't find your happy ending, and if you're willing to move to another universe, you always have me.

Hearing that made Sojiro chuckle as Wakaba chuckled along with him. Just then, Group 2 comes across a game booth where another Barker is standing in front of some basketball hoops and next to him is a crate full of basketballs.

Barker #3: Step right up lads and lasses! Sink a total of ten baskets within the time limit and you could win a golden ticket!

Riku: Finally, we found one of these jerks handing out tickets!

Barker #3: What do you say, folks, do you want to play? (Spins a basketball on his finger)

Remus/Tricky: I don't suppose any of you know how to play this game?

Sojiro/Chief: Hmm…I'm a little rusty, but I'll give it a shot!

Futaba/Oracle: Good luck, Sojiro.

Barker #3: (Hands Sojiro a basketball as he puts his hand over a timer) Okay, old timer, whenever you're ready I'll start the clock. You have one minute to sink ten baskets. Your time starts…now!

As the countdown starts, Sojiro quickly takes aim and throws the ball towards the basket. It looked like it was about to go in the basket…but the Barker, much like the one at the cornhole game, has his hand in his pocket and in that pocket is another remote. The Barker presses the button on the remote, and the hoop begins to move upward. As a result, the basketball bounces off of the side of the hoop and it ends up hitting Kimiko in the face.

Kimiko/Angel: Ow! My face!

Minato/Lion: What was that?!

Sojiro then picks up another basketball and throws it at the hoop, but the Barker presses the button the moves to the right, causing the ball to bounce off of the backboard and hit Futaba in the face.

Futaba/Oracle: Ow!

Riku: What the heck is going on?!

Sojiro grabs a third basketball and throws it at the hoop, and once again, the Barker presses the button causing the hoop to move to the left. As a result, the ball bounces off of the backboard, then off of a table, and then into Remus.

Mai: Remus!

Remus/Tricky: I'm okay!

Before Sojiro could grab another ball, the time ran out.

Barker #3: Oh, now that is embarrassing! Next time you might want to stick to your bingo games and shuffleboard, grandpa.

Kimiko/Angel: Okay, if I didn't know any better, I'd say that this game was rigged.

Mai: It's a carnival, Kim. Of course the games are going to be rigged against us.

---

With Group 3, they're approaching another Barker who is standing next to a 'Dance Dance Revolution' styled arcade machine. The machine has two platforms, one vacant one and one that has a robot in Falldown Kasumi's likeness standing on it.

Barker #4: Come one, come all! Test your dancing skills in our groove machine! See if you have what it takes to beat our one and only Groove-o-matic! Beat him and this golden ticket could be yours!

Akechi/Crow: Well, we found a place where we can win a ticket. But that only raises a new question; who's well versed in this style of game to ensure a swift and easy victory? Does anyone here know how to play a dancing game like this?

Sputnik/Jinx: I've never danced.

Ichiko: I have two left feet.

Nayoko: Video games are not my area of expertise.

Takeishi: I just don't want to.

Eiko: Alright, you wusses! Let me handle this!

Akechi/Crow: Are you sure about this, Eiko?

Eiko: Yeah, I used to play this game all of the time with my older brother back home. No problem.

Barker #4: Well, sweet thing, whenever you're ready step on up and get ready to dance your booty off!

Akechi/Crow: (Annoyed) Is that anyway to talk to a lady? Honestly!

Hearing him stand up for her makes Eiko blush a little bit.

Barker #4: Settle down, buddy, I'm just teasing. (Turns to Eiko) Now, remember, your high score has to be higher than that of the Groove-o-matic if you want to win the golden ticket!

Eiko: Bring it on!

Barker #4: Alright, the game starts…now!

(BGM: 'Red Zone' by Tatsh & NAOKI)

The Barker presses a button causing music to play, the Groove-o-matic to activate, and the game to start. As the arrows appeared on screen, Eiko and the Groove-o-matic step on the corresponding directional pad. The girl and the robot are evenly matched, neither missing a single arrow. The likes of Akechi, Sputnik, Yutaka, Nayoko, Takeishi, and Ichiko are cheering Eiko on. As she dances, Akechi looks over at Eiko and smiles; maybe there's a small part of him that likes her too. However, when he realizes that he's staring, he stops and coyly turns away.

Eiko continues to dance like a woman possessed, and that's when the Barker decides that it's time to cheat. Like the others, he reaches into his pocket where a remote was located. He presses a button and it messes with Eiko's game. Now, every other time she steps on an arrow pad, the game doesn't register it, allowing the Groove-o-matic to take the lead.

Eiko: Hey, what's going on?!

Eiko continued to try and dance, only for the machine to continue to fail to register her movements. Akechi, Sputnik, Yutaka, Nayoko, Takeishi, and Ichiko get disheartened looks on their faces as Akechi looks over at the Shadow Barker with an annoyed look on his face. Then he looked to see a wire attached to the game that seems to extend to another part of the fair.

(End BGM)

With the game over, Eiko looks to see that her high score is nowhere close to beating the Groove-o-matic's. She looks over at the Barker.

Eiko: What happened? My machine stopped working and it picked up every other movement.

Barker #4: Yeah, yeah, write a book about it. You'll sell millions. Bottom line, you lost and no golden ticket for you.

Eiko gets off of the machine in a huff and storms off as the other six with her follow after her.

---

Finally, we come to Group 4 who are looking for a place where they could win a golden ticket.

Eri: (Sighs lovingly) Carnivals can be so romantic, don't you think, Toshiro?

Toshiro/Patriot: I know what you mean, Eri.

Toshiro briefly looks down as he puts his hand in his pocket to take out the rings he wishes to propose to Eri with before putting it back.

As the group continues walking, Kaoru spots another Barker standing in front of an electronic 'Test of Strength' game.

Kaoru: Hey, you guys! I spy with my little eye a place where we can get a golden ticket!

The group sees the Barker and they run over to him to talk to him.

Barker #5: Wow, you all look like some strong ones! Perhaps you'd like to play my game to see how strong you really are?

Ichiro: What do we have to do?

Barker #5: (Picks up a big mallet) It's simple. Swing this mallet down as hard as you can on this big red button and watch as this tower of lights illuminates all the way towards that bell. If it reaches the top, then the bell will ring, and when it does, the Golden Ticket is yours. Ready to play?

Kas: (Whispers in Ichiro's ear) Other Father, this is your chance to prove your manliness to Other Mother. When you win this game and earn us the golden ticket, she'll definitely fall head over heels for you.

Ichiro: Let's try it. (Looks over at the Barker) I'll take a crack at it!

Barker #5: Good luck, son!

The Barker hands Ichiro the mallet and he steps up to the game so he could play. Once he got close enough, Ichiro tightened his grip around the mallet, raised it over his head, and slammed down on the button as hard as he could. Just like that, the tower of lights started to glow and go higher towards the bell. Everyone watches as the lights inch closer to the bell.

Ichiro: Come on, baby, come on!

The Barker meanwhile, puts his hand in his pocket and presses the button on a remote that causes the lights to stop glowing before they reach the bell. Seeing the lights just barely reach the bell makes Ichiro's jaw drop.

Barker #5: Oh, so close! Oh well, better luck next time.

Kas: Uh, hold on there, chief! I'm pretty sure he hit that button harder than that. That bell should be ringing and that golden ticket should be ours!

Barker #5: He hit the button hard, there's no doubt about that…but he didn't hit it hard enough.

Kas: This is bullshit!

Ichiro: (Drags Kas away) Leave him alone for right now, Kas. Right now let's go find the rest of our team so we can get a status report.

As Ichiro drags Kas away, Sumire can't help but stare at her, completely nonplussed.

Sumire/Violet: (To herself) I can't believe that's actually my daughter from another universe.

Sumire and the rest of Group 4 follow after Ichiro and Kas so they can look for the rest of their team.

---

Back near the front of the big top tent, the four groups meet back up to see how their progress on gathering the golden tickets are going.

Ichiro: Alright, team, what's the sitch?

Ren/Joker: The game that our golden ticket is locked behind is rigged.

Sumire/Violet: Yeah, ours too.

Sputnik/Jinx & Remus/Tricky: Ours also!

Minato/Lion: So what's the plan now, Other Father? We clearly can't win the tickets by playing fair, so how do we cheat the cheaters?

Akechi/Crow: I might have an idea. With our game, we noticed a wire connected to it that leads somewhere. I assume the same could be said about your games.

Kaoru: Now that you mention it, the test of strength game did have a long wire sticking out of it.

Akihiro: Same for my game of cornhole.

Mai: And that basketball game that Sojiro tried to play.

Akechi/Crow: Great. Now, since all of these games appear to be electronic or run on a computer, maybe if we follow those wires it'll lead us to whatever is powering those games, then we shut them down.

Makoto/Queen: Those Barkers will have no choice but to play fair then. Good thinking, Akechi!

Ren/Joker: Alright, everyone, let's get back in our assigned groups and find what's powering those games.

With that, everyone split back up to follow their respective wires to their respective power source.

---

With Group 1, they follow the wire connected to the cornhole game to a small red and blue striped tent.

Ryuta: Bingo, we found it!

Ren/Joker: The power source must be inside. So let's walk right in there and dismantle it.

The group of seven walk into the tent and their jaws drop when they see that it's a lot bigger on the inside.

What they're presented with is a pocket dimension that looks like the inside of a very big funhouse. There are mirrors covering the walls, every floor is a trampoline, and there are even slides scattered throughout the place.

Kana: I knew this was too easy.

Takemi: Whatever is powering the game could be anywhere.

Ren/Joker: Guys, look! (He points at the wire that goes all the way to the top of the funhouse) The power source must be up there somewhere!

Ryuta: Well, what are we waiting for, let's go!

Just then, they hear what sounds like five men laughing. Out from a puff of smoke come five shadows dressed like clowns. Two of the shadows are carrying large mallets, two other ones are wielding polka-dotted machetes, and the fifth one is holding a blood soaked chainsaw.

Mallet Clown #1: Oh boy, oh boy! I just love when company comes to visit!

Chainsaw Clown: Hey, new friends, let's play a game! It's called…(Revs up the chainsaw)...Dismemberment!

The five clowns laugh with sadistic glee as Ren and Makoto get ready to fight

Makoto/Queen: Man, this used to be a fun house. But now it's full of Shadow Clowns!

Ren/Joker: Unfortunately for them, I never really liked clowns. (Turns to face Sae, Ryuta, Akihiro, Takemi, and Kana) Can you five look for the power source while Makoto and I take care of these guys?

Sae: Consider it done, Ren.

Ren/Joker: Thank you.

Makoto/Queen: And don't worry, we won't let those clowns anywhere near you.

Takemi: Thanks, Makoto. Alright, let's go!

Takemi, Akihiro, Ryuta, Kana, and Sae jump up high thanks to the trampoline floors and they ascend to the next level as the Shadow Clowns prepare to jump up after them.

Ren/Joker: Oh no you don't! Clotho!

Ren takes off his mask and summons Clotho! As soon as she appears, Clotho uses Mahama in an attempt to defeat the clowns immediately, but they dodge out of the way and turn their attention to Ren and Makoto.

Ren/Joker: You take two, I'll take three!

Makoto/Queen: Got it!

Ren/Joker: (Looks at the Chainsaw Clown and Mallet Clowns) Catch me if you can!

Ren uses the trampoline to leap up to a higher platform as the three Shadow Clowns give chase. With Ren fighting those three clowns, and the Non-Thieves of Group 1 following the wire to the top of the room, Makoto is left to face the two machete clowns by herself.

Makoto/Queen: It would be wise not to mess with me!

Machete Clown #1: Ah, we're not afraid of a boorish brat like yourself!

Makoto/Queen: You should be.

Machete Clown #2: Come, brother, let's put this Phantom Thief in her place!

The two Machete Clowns lunge at Makoto with their blades, but she jumps up high in the air thanks to the trampoline, so she's able to dodge them. From there, Makoto pulls out her revolver and shoots down one of the Machete Clowns, killing him.

Machete Clown #2: Uh-oh.

Makoto/Queen: Johanna!

While in mid-air, Makoto summons and mounts her motorcycle Persona before propelling it down towards the remaining Machete Clown. Makoto and Johanna run over the remaining Shadow Clown, defeating him.

Makoto/Queen: Piece of cake.

With Ren, he's seen avoiding the two mallet clowns' mallet swings and the chainsaw clown's chainsaw swings. His dodging eventually sends Ren tumbling down one of the slides and when he lands, he finds himself with his back against the wall as he's surrounded by the three Shadow Clowns, their weapons at the ready.

Mallet Clown #2: Say goodnight, baby boy!

Not ready to give up, Ren summons one of his Personas.

Ren/Joker: Oberon!

When Oberon gets summoned, Ren has him use Nocturnal Flash to daze them, at which point Ren shoots the two Mallet Clowns with his guns before running towards and drop kicking the Chainsaw Clown. Unfortunately, the Chainsaw Clown ends up landing on another trampoline that sends him flying up to where Takemi, Akihiro, Ryuta, Kana, and Sae were located.

The five Non-Thieves gasp as the Chainsaw Clown revs up his weapon, ready to cut them limb from limb as Ryuta and Sae get in between the shadow and their three friends.

On ground level, Makoto sees this and summons Johana once more. She drives Johanna up a spiral slide towards the platform that the Chainsaw Clown was located, and when she makes it there, she has Johanna use Frei on the Shadow, defeating him before he has a chance to harm the five Non-Thieves. Makoto dismounts from Johanna just as Ren manages to catch up with everyone else.

Akihiro: Thanks, Makoto, you really saved our skins.

Makoto/Queen: I know you'd do the same for me, Akihiro.

Kana: You two sure made quick work of those Shadow Clowns.

Sae: Yes. You two make a very good team, both in life and in battle.

Makoto and Ren smile at their friends before looking at each other, a small blush coming to their faces.

Ryuta: (Looks at the wire which goes beneath one of the mirrors on the wall) Seven years of bad luck be damned!

Ryuta kicks the mirror, shattering it and revealing a computer that the wire was running into.

Takemi: So this is how they were able to rig the cornhole game.

Akihiro: Yeah. (Picks up the wire connected to the computer) Ren, do the honors!

Ren/Joker: Gladly! (He takes out a knife and cuts the wire, powering down the computer)

---

We then cut to Group 2 who have followed their wire to a green and yellow tent. They step inside, and their pocket dimension consists of an area that is littered with roller coasters and coaster tracks.

Riku: Wow, this is so cool!

Sojiro/Chief: Yeah, if you're a fan of roller coasters.

Wakaba: Yeah, my world's version of you wasn't fond of roller coasters either.

Minato/Lion: Unfortunately it looks like we have to ride the coaster if we want to get to the computer powering the basketball game. Look over there.

Minato points to the other side of the room where they see the wire leading into the computer.

Sojiro/Chief: (Nervously) Hoo boy…

Wakaba: (Takes Sojiro's hand in hers) It'll be okay, Sojiro, just hold my hand if you get scared.

Sojiro: (Blushes) O-okay, Wakaba.

The other six with them look at the cute display before them before turning their attention to four coaster cars, which pull up on the track beside them.

Remus/Tricky: All aboard!

Minato and Kimiko get in the red car. Futaba and Remus hop in the blue car. Wakaba and Sojiro get in the green car. And Riku and Mai get inside the yellow car. Once the eight of them are strapped in, the four coaster cars leave the platform and continue down the tracks.

The four cars, at first, go slowly down the tracks…but then the main track breaks off in four separate directions, with each car going down a different path, and that's when the coasters pick up speed. Our eight heroes are sent down their respective tracks at high speeds going through loops, corkscrews, speed tunnels, steep drops, and even hop over gaps in the track as they yell, scream, laugh, and holler all the while.

Eventually, the four cars that they're riding on get back on the same track as they decrease in speed and eventually stop when they reach the platform with the computer on it. The eight dizzy heroes disembark and Sojiro even vomits on the floor thanks to the wild ride.

Remus/Tricky: Alright, that was fun.

Futaba/Oracle: If a wild ride was the only thing separating us from the computer powering that basketball game, then I'd say we got off easy. (Walks up to the computer and prepares to hack into it) Now the part that I love!

As Futaba gets to work, the group suddenly hears a low growling noise.

Mai: What was that?!

The source of the noise shows its face, and it's a Shadow that's taken on the form of a dark blue and yellow dragon themed roller coaster. It's a roller coaster composed of ten coaster cars with the front having the head of a dragon and the rear having the tail of one. On the sides of cars two through nine were sharp-tipped dragon wings that it uses to stay in the air, and on the bottom of the cars are wheels instead of feet.

Remus/Tricky: (Glares at Futaba) You had to open your mouth.

Futaba/Oracle: We'd better get to work on taking that thing out before he makes things difficult.

Minato/Lion: Keep trying to hack into that computer Other Futaba. Chief, Angel, Tricky, and I have this one!

Wakaba: Good luck out there.

Sojiro/Chief: Let's do this!

The roller coaster shadow shoots a giant fireball from the canon in the mouth of the dragon. That's when Minato summons his Persona.

Minato/Lion: Tarzan, protect us!

When Tarzan gets summoned, he puts up a giant rock wall in front of the party and it protects them from the fireball. Tarzan then throws the rock wall at the roller coaster shadow, but it flies right through it unharmed before trying to swoop down at the four, who duck out of the way.

Minato/Lion: Fire everything you have it it, guys!

Minato fires a few arrows from his wrist-mounted crossbow, Kimiko fires some arrows from her bow, Sojiro shoots multiple rounds from his AK-47, and Remus shoots a few rounds from his flare gun, but the roller coaster shadow dodges them all.

Remus/Tricky: It's no use! He's too fast!

Sojiro/Chief: Alright, so what's the plan now?

In the time it took for the other three Thieves to get nervous, Kimiko came up with an idea. She opens up her wing pack and jumps off the platform, allowing her to take flight.

Kimiko/Angel: Hey, Puff the Magic Dipshit! I bet you can't catch me!

Minato/Lion: Kim! What are you doing?!

As Kimiko flies off, the roller coaster shadow chases after her. As the shadow chases after the woman, he shoots more fireballs and even tries to chomp at her. Thankfully Kimiko was fast enough to avoid all of the attacks. Eventually, Kimiko leads the coaster shadow to a loop that was close to the platform where everyone else was located. She flies around the loops multiple times with the coaster shadow still following after her, and before the enemy realizes it, Kimiko had tricked it into wrapping itself around the track, causing it to get stuck.

Kimiko/Angel: (Smugly) Not so tough now, are you?

Kimiko flies back to join the rest of the group, who are impressed with her quick thinking in order to stop the coaster shadow's movements.

Minato/Lion: Smart thinking, sis!

Kimiko/Angel: Thank me later. Right now, it's time we finish that thing off! (Everyone turns their attention to the coaster shadow wrapped around the loop) All-Out-Attack!

Kimiko, Minato, Sojiro, and Remus leap off of the platform so they could perform an All-Out-Attack on the roller coaster shadow. When the animation ends, we see Kimiko landing on her feet gracefully, the wings of her wing pack open wide as she raises her Celtic Flame Sword high as a caption reads, 'Sorry to Keep You Waiting!'

After the All-Out-Attack ends, the roller coaster shadow disappears and the four Phantom Thieves regroup with their friends as Futaba finishes hacking into the computer.

Minato/Lion: Again, that was excellent work, Kimiko. Thank you.

Kimiko just smiles with a toothy grin as she gives a thumbs up. Eventually, Futaba finishes hacking into the computer as she laughs with pride.

Futaba/Oracle: Nice job, if I do say so myself! Now we can win the basketball game the next time we decide to play.

Sojiro/Chief: Excellent job, Futaba.

Wakaba: (Smiles) That's my girl! Or rather, a version of my girl.

Futaba gives her trademark giggle as Group 2 makes their leave.

---

With Group 3, they enter a pink and purple striped tent and inside is an arena with a red and yellow floor. Surrounding the arena is a bottomless pit with a wooden bridge connecting the arena with the main entrance and the platform that the computer is on. On our heroes side of the arena are three yellow and white teacups with wheels at the center of them. The seven enter the arena and walk up to the teacups.

Takeishi: What are these?

Nayoko: What, you've never been on a teacup ride before?

Takeishi: Of course I've been on a teacup ride before, wiseass. I just don't know why they're here.

Just then, a group of six green and purple teacup shadows with evil faces on them appear out of nowhere as the bridges connecting the arena to the main entrance and platform with the computer disappear.

Yutaka: Uh, maybe that's why.

Ichiko: What do you guys think they want?

Akechi/Crow: (Looks at the shadow teacups, then the three other teacups, then the bottomless pit surrounding the arena) I think they're trying to challenge us to a game of teacup bumper cars. If we knock all six of them into the pit, then maybe the bridges will reappear and we can get to the computer powering that dancing game.

Yutaka: (Looks down into the bottomless pit) A bumper cars game where the penalty for failure is spending the rest of your days falling in a dark, bottomless pit. Yeah, these are some high stakes.

Sputnik/Jinx: Unfortunately it looks like we have no choice but to play if we want to get to that computer. So, everybody pair up and get into a teacup.

The other six do exactly what the rabbit Poppet tells them. Akechi, Eiko, and Sputnik get into the first teacup. Yutaka and Nayoko get into the second teacup. And Ichiko and Takeishi get into the third teacup. Once the seven heroes were all settled, they start turning their wheels, allowing their teacups to start spinning and moving towards the six Shadow Teacups.

What follows is a war of attrition between the seven heroes and the six teacup shadows as the two groups try and knock each other into the bottomless pit.

With Takeishi and Ichiko's teacup, the former is showing no mercy when piloting their teacup. He's letting out loud and vigorous battle cries as he rams into his Teacup Shadow. Takeishi lets out an angry yell as he rams it off of the edge and into the pit; now there are five teacup shadows left.

Ichiko: (Blushes) Wow, Kuro, I gotta say I like your style. I never see you get so…barbaric.

Takeishi: (Blushes as he regains his stoicism) Yeah, sorry about that.

Ichiko: Don't apologize. In fact, I kind of like it.

Takeishi: You do? Well then, in that case, let's get back to shattering these cups! (Lets out another roar as he engages another Teacup Shadow in combat)

With Nayoko and Yutaka, the former just knocked a Teacup Shadow into the abyss, meaning there are now four shadows left.

Yutaka: You showed that piece of porcelain who's boss!

Nayoko: Don't mess with me in a game of bumper cars, bucko! Alright, who's next?!

Just then, Yutaka and Nayoko get taken by surprise by another Teacup Shadow who rams into them so hard they almost fall into the abyss. The two of them are teetering on the edge of the arena as a matter of fact. The two teens look to see the Teacup Shadow ready to ram into them once more to ensure their demise.

Yutaka: Help!

Akechi, Sputnik, and Eiko, who had knocked another Teacup Shadow into the pit, hear Yutaka's pleas for help and they see the Teacup Shadow about to ram into them. Akechi was about to reach for the wheel in his teacup…but Eiko beat him to it and takes off at top speeds to stop the Teacup Shadow's assault.

Eiko: Hang on, guys! We're coming!

With a yell, Eiko crashes into the Teacup Shadow before it can knock the two teens into the pit. The resulting crash causes the shadow to fall into the pit instead, meaning that there are now two Shadow Teacups left.

Nayoko: Thanks, Eiko.

Yutaka: We owe you one.

Nayoko and Yutaka drive their teacup elsewhere as Akechi turns to look at Eiko.

Akechi/Crow: I've gotta say, Eiko, I'm impressed with your act of heroism.

Eiko: Don't think too deeply into it. I was just doing what was morally right.

Akechi/Crow: (To himself) A girl with an extraordinary moral compass. They don't make them like that in my universe. Gah! Pull it together, Goro, don't get feelings for this girl! You'll only get your heart broken in the end! (Outloud) Alright, let's finish the last of these teacups off.

Eiko: You got it! (Drives the teacup elsewhere)

The last two teacups are ganging up on Takeishi and Ichiko, and seeing this makes Takeishi angry.

Takeishi: I hate bastards like you who don't play fair!

The two Teacup Shadows are about to make their move when Nayoko and Yutaka, and Sputnik, Akechi, and Eiko come out of nowhere and ram into them, sending the last two Teacup Shadows into the pit and saving Ichiko and Takeishi.

Sputnik/Jinx: And that's all she wrote!

Ichiko: Thanks for your help, guys. We really appreciate it, don't we Kuro?

Takeishi: Yeah, well, I'm sure I could've handled them just fine regardless.

Nayoko: Uh-huh, drop the macho act, my guy.

The seven get out of their teacups as the bridge to the platform with the computer reappears.

Akechi/Crow: The bridge is back! Now we can disconnect that wire from the computer.

Sputnik/Jinx: Or, better idea.

Sputnik takes out her baseball bat and one of her bombs before throwing the bomb up in the air so she can hit it with her bat like a baseball. The bomb goes flying towards the computer, causing it to explode and destroy the computer. Sputnik looks at her work with pride before turning back to her six allies.

Takeishi: Pfft, show off.

---

At long last, we cut to Group 4 who approach an orange and lime-green tent. When the seven heroes walk into the tent they see that it's a 'Tunnel of Love' based pocket dimension. They're presented with four black swan boats which float up in front of them. Our heroes look to see the wire connecting to the Test of Strength game leading down a dark tunnel.

Eri: Well, I guess there's only one thing we have to do now.

Kaoru: Time to go for a little boat ride.

Ichiro: Each boat seats two people, so one of us is going to have to ride alone.

Kas: I'll volunteer for that position, Other Father. In the meantime, why don't you and Other Mother share a boat and, you know chat.

Sumire/Violet: (Raising a brow at Kas) What are you doing?

Ichiro: What's the matter, Sumire? Afraid to ride with me?

Sumire/Violet: (Blushes) I-I didn't say that?! Just shut up and get in that boat!

Ichiro: Say less.

Sumire and Ichiro get in one boat together. Kaoru and Sophia get in one boat together. Eri and Toshiro get in one boat together. And that leaves Kas riding solo in the other swan boat. With everyone seated, the swan boats start floating into the tunnel.

Inside the tunnel, our seven heroes are following the wire with their eyes as they ride in their boats to see where it leads to. In the ride, they are surrounded by neon lights displaying hearts, clouds, cupids with bow and arrows, and even some more risque images like the male and female gender symbols and even symbols showing both types of sex organs.

Kaoru: This is a seriously twisted take on the Tunnel of Love.

Sophia/Sophie: Kaoru, I'm sensing that you're feeling rather uncomfortable. Is there anything I can do for you?

Kaoru: (Blushes) Uh, no Sophia. I'm fine. Thank you for asking.

Sophia/Sophie: Are you sure? I hear that you can calm a person down by holding someone else's hand. Would you like to hold my hand?

Kaoru: (Blushing harder) If…if you'll let me.

Sophia and Kaoru spend the rest of their time holding hands as they look for the wire amidst the neon lights.

With Kas, she's sitting by herself on her black swan boat when she looks behind her to see Eri and Toshiro pecking each other on the lips repeatedly. The idea of being in a Tunnel of Love type ride making the two older folks feel like kids again.

Kas: (Shudders) People over 30 should not make out.

Kas then shifts her attention to the boat in front of her, which has Sumire and Ichiro riding. She tries to listen in to see if her 'matchmaking skills' are paying off.

Sumire/Violet: Keep your eyes peeled, Ichiro. Don't take your eyes off of the wire no matter what.

Ichiro: Aye, aye, captain!

Sumire/Violet: Hey, Ichiro, I've been meaning to ask you, how do you feel about Kas?

Ichiro: What do you mean?

Sumire/Violet: Aren't you at least a little weirded out about having a…(hushed tone) gay daughter.

Ichiro: First of all Kas is from another universe, so she's technically not our daughter. And second, I'm not bothered at all. What's the difference between love shared between two straight people and two homosexual people anyway? As long as there's love, isn't that all that matters?

Sumire/Violet: I guess but…it's just strange to me.

Ichiro: Well, I hate to sound harsh, but you're going to have to deal with it, Sumire. We can't change who Kas is. And you know, you should consider Kas to be a trial run for when you become a parent one day. What if you get married and have a kid who turns out to be gay? What will you do then? Will you still love your child?

Sumire/Violet: Of course I would. I promised myself that should the day come where I mother a child, I would love him/her unconditionally.

Ichiro: I know Kas isn't technically your daughter…but someone like her could be one day. I'm not saying you have to accept her right away, but just try and be cordial with her.

Sumire/Violet: (Thinks to herself) I guess I have been alienating Kas a little bit since I met her. God, I'm amazed she doesn't hate me yet.

Ichiro: It's not too late to make things right with her, you know.

Sumire looks over at Ichiro and smiles at him, but that's when she sees the wire leading down a dark hallway that's beside the main ride.

Sumire/Violet: Look alive, everyone! The wire goes down that way!

Ichiro: Let's shake a leg, everyone!

The seven heroes jump out of their black swan boats and run down the hallway into a room covered in crystals.

Eri: Wow, it's so pretty here!

Kaoru: And look over there! There's the computer we need to destroy!

Kas: Fuck yeah!

Sophia/Sophie: Allow me.

Sophia takes out her yo-yo and prepares to throw it at the computer to destroy it, but when she does it bounces off of a forcefield, catching everyone by surprise. That's when laughter fills the room as another Shadow appears; a Shadow Magician. This Shadow is wearing a blue top hat with a red band around it, a white and blue eye mask, and a maroon silk cloak over a blue suit.

Magician: Not so fast, my nosy little thrillseekers! That computer is strictly off limits by orders of Father Hoshigami and the Falldown Thieves. If you want to destroy this computer so badly, you're going to have to fight me for it!

The Shadow Magician fires a bolt of energy at our seven heroes, who duck out of the way. The Magician laughs and then disappears before reappearing elsewhere and firing another bolt of energy, this time hitting Sumire.

Ichiro: Sumire, are you alright?

Sumire/Violet: Just peachy! Sophie, Patriot, let's take this guy!

Sophia: Way ahead of you!

Sophia fires a round from her blaster as Sumire fires round from her antique rifle and Toshiro fires a few rounds from his pistols. The magician disappears before the attacks can even hit him. The magician appears again, and the three Thieves try shooting at him only for him to disappear again. This process continues until the three Thieves lower their guns.

Magician: Your pathetic guns can't touch me! I'm just too quick!

Toshiro/Patriot: Shut your mouth!

Toshiro fires his pistol again, and the Magician disappears once more to dodge it. Toshiro's bullet however hits one of the crystals and a big piece of it breaks off. Seeing that gives Kas an idea.

Kas: Guys, I have an idea! You see that crystal that broke off when Patriot shot it?

Sumire/Violet: What about it?

Kas: I think you should use it.

Sumire/Violet: (Catches on) Oh, yeah, I think I get it.

Sumire runs to grab the big piece of crystal just as the Shadow Magician reappears.

Magician: Take this!

The Shadow Magician fires another bolt of energy, but this time Sumire holds up the big piece of crystal, causing the energy bolt to reflect off of it and hit the Shadow Magician, stunning him.

Sumire/Violet: Now's our chance!

Sumire, Toshiro & Sophia: SHOWTIME!

---

SHOWTIME ATTACK - The Big Sum-bowski

This Showtime Attack takes place in a bowling alley. Sumire lifts the Magician Shadow up by the collar of his shirt as Sophia and Toshiro are in the background watching intently. Sumire takes a deep breath and runs towards the lane, the Shadow Magician still in her grip. Sumire lets go of the Shadow Magician and he goes flying down the lane and into the ten pins at the end.

With all of the pins knocked over, and the Shadow Magician laying in defeat, Sumire, Toshiro, and Sophia take out their guns and shoot at the Shadow Magician to add insult to injury. And if that wasn't enough, Toshiro takes out a big black sphere bomb with a long, lit fuse attached to it. Sumire takes the bomb from Toshiro and rolls it down the lane so it can explode once it reaches the Shadow Magician, finally putting him out of his misery.

When the dust settles, Sumire, Toshiro, and Sophia do a victory pose as a screen overhead reads, 'STRIKE!' in golden letters.

---

The Shadow Magician is defeated and as a result the force field surrounding the computer disappears. The four Non-Thieves rejoin the three Thieves as they revel in their victory.

Kaoru: Well, that defeat was a bit excessive.

Ichiro: Regardless, we beat him, so now we can shut that computer down.

Sumire/Violet: (Looks over at Kas) Thanks for you help, Kas. We wouldn't have been able to beat him without your idea.

Kas: I was glad to help, Other Mother.

Sumire/Violet: You know, why don't you destroy the computer. You helped us defeat that last Shadow, so I think you deserve it.

Kas: Oh, ho, ho! (Cracks her knuckles) Consider that baby demolished!

Kas walks up to the computer and stomps on it, destroying it.

---

We then cut to Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 as they are seen winning the carnival games now that the computers and wires attached to said games are destroyed, rendering the Barkers' remote controls useless.

With Group 1 and the cornhole game, Akihiro is seen tossing the last bean bag into the glowing hole, causing fanfare to play on some nearby speakers.

Akihiro: (Fist pump) Aw yeah, baby!

Barker #2: I don't believe this!

Akihiro: Well believe it! Now, I believe there's something you need to give me?

The Barker mutters and grumbles to himself as he hands Akihiro his golden ticket. With the golden ticket in Akihiro's possession, Group 1 heads back for the big top tent at the heart of the carnival.

---

With Group 2, Sojiro is tossing in basket after basket in the basketball game. All the while, the Barker is trying to move the net with the remote in his pocket.

Barker #3: (Under his breath) Come on, why won't you work?!

As the Barker tries and fails to get his remote to work, Sojiro sinks the tenth and final basket as the timer runs out. Seeing this causes all of Group 2 to cheer for the older man.

Futaba/Oracle: Way to go, Chief!

Minato/Lion: (Gets in the Barker's face) What, bitch?! He's like Kobe before the helicopter, sucker! Fuck with yo boi, yeah!

Mai: Minato, chill out!

Minato/Lion: (Regains his stoicism) Sorry, I just got a little excited. Anyway, we'll be taking our ticket now.

Barker #3: Fine! (Hands the golden ticket to Minato) Now get out of my sight!

Group 2, with their golden ticket in hand, make their way back to the big top tent.

---

With Group 3, they are watching Eiko dominate in the dancing game as the Groove-o-matic is not only seen malfunctioning due to the computer being destroyed, but, like with the other Barkers, the remote control meant to rig the game isn't working either, so when the song ends, Eiko ends up with a perfect score.

Barker #4: Unbelievable!

Akechi/Crow: (Hugs Eiko) You were brilliant, Eiko.

Eiko: Thank you, Goro. (Whispers) Never let me go.

Akechi/Crow: What was that?

Eiko: Nothing!

As the Barker stares at the dance machine absolutely gobsmacked, Sputnik hops behind the booth and grabs the golden ticket.

Sputnik/Jinx: Let's go, guys!

---

Finally with Group 4, we see Ichiro trying his luck at the Test of Strength game again. But this time, due to the remote control not working since they destroyed the computer, the lights leading up to the bell all begin to glow. When that happened, the bell rings and confetti rains down from above.

Sumire/Violet: Way to go, Ichiro!

Ichiro: Yeah! That's what I'm talking about!

Kas: (Walks up to the stunned Barker) One golden ticket! Fork it over, Frankenstein!

The Barker says nothing, instead he takes the golden ticket out of his pocket and shoves it into Kas angrily.

Kas: Yow! Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning.

Ichiro: He's just upset that I won, Kas, no big deal.

Toshiro/Patriot: Alright, everyone, let's regroup at the big top tent. I'm sure everyone is waiting for us.

And with that, Group 4 walks off to the big top tent to rejoin their friends.

---

At the big top tent, we see the Barker still standing guard at the front entrance when the group of 29 approach him.

Barker #1: Well look who came crawling back. Do you have the four golden tickets? (Scoffs) Like I even have to ask. You probably lost your collective asses on our games and have come to beg me to let you into this tent.

Ren/Joker: No, sir, we have the golden tickets right here!

Barker #1: Say what?! I don't believe you! Show me!

Akihiro, Ichiro, Sputnik, and Minato show the Barker the four golden tickets, surprising him.

Barker #1: That's impossible! Our games are rigged so that no one can beat them no matter how hard they tried!

Kimiko/Angel: That's what happens when you play with the likes of us! When we play games, we play for keeps!

Barker #1: (Sigh) Apparently so. (Stands aside) Well, rules are rules, you may enter.

Makoto/Queen: Much obliged, sir. Come along, everyone.

All 29 Thieves walk into the tent in a single file line, with Kas in the back of it. They walk past the Barker, who hands his head in defeat. Once they all walked past him, Kas turns around while walking backwards and she flips the Barker off with both middle fingers. The Barker doesn't seem to notice or care as he lets out a deflated sigh as the 29 Thieves enter the tent.

---

Inside the big top tent, our heroes look around to see nobody in the audience but up above them are some trapezes, and in the center of the arena sits a potted Kiyoi Flower in all of its golden glory.

Kana: There's nothing here. I'm not going to lie, I'm kind of disappointed.

Futaba/Oracle: I like when there's nothing here. That makes the job easier for us.

Remus/Tricky: Hey, guys, look over there!

Remus points at the potted Kiyoi Flower at the center of the arena.

Takeishi: Alright, our first Kiyoi Flower!

Sputnik/Jinx: I've got this one!

Sputnik runs up to the potted golden flower so she can grab it, but before she can even lay a paw on it, something swoops down from the trapeze and snatches it.

Sputnik/Jinx: What the?!

The figure that nabbed the Kiyoi Flower was none other than Falldown Kasumi herself! She's heard laughing jovially as she swings on the trapeze, the Kiyoi Flower in hand. Eventually she stops swinging and lands on a suspended platform.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: Hello there, Phantom Thieves of Hearts! Did you all have fun exploring my little carnival?

Sumire/Violet: (Eyes wide) It's her!

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: I must admit, I am deeply surprised that you all managed to shut down the computers powering my rigged games and even knocking my underlings down a peg or two. But then again, I probably should've expected as much from the very folks that closed off the Metaverse more times than I'd dare to count.

Ren/Joker: Kasumi, let's be reasonable about this! Come down, hand over that Kiyoi Flower, and we won't be forced to hurt you.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: You know something, I really hate when the hero offers the villain a chance to surrender. Don't they know they almost never take it?

Remus/Tricky: In a perfect world it would be nice.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: But this isn't a perfect world, now is it? This is the Metaverse, where all happiness and all logic and reason come to shrivel up and die like a raisin in the sun! And speaking of shriveling up and dying, I think it's about time you all did the same!

Falldown Kasumi snaps her fingers as from a side entrance to the big top tent, a Boss Shadow shows up. This Shadow has the appearance of a huge, seven trunked, four tusked, big eared elephant wearing golden armor; Shadow Airavata. The twelve Phantom Thieves stand in front of the seventeen Non-Thieves in an attempt to protect them from the Shadow's wrath.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: Phantom Thieves of Hearts, allow me to introduce you to this carnival's pride and joy, the Airavata!

The Shadow Airavata lets out a roar so loud most of our heroes had to cover their eyes so they don't grow deaf. With the Kiyoi Flower still in her arms, Falldown Kasumi leaps off of her platform and lands in one of the audience seats, pulling a bag of popcorn out from hammerspace and putting her feet up on the seat in front of her so she can enjoy the battle that's about to unfold.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: Best seat in the house! Airavata, I hope you're hungry, because it's dinnertime!

The Shadow Airavata kicks things off by sticking out its seven trunks and letting out blasts of energy from them, causing our heroes to duck down so they don't get hit.

Minato/Lion: That is one mean elephant!

Akechi/Crow: So what? We've tangoed with tougher foes than this! I'm not afraid, so you shouldn't be either!

Ren/Joker: Crow is right! We must stow our fear and fight this thing so we can get the Kiyoi Flower back from Falldown Kasumi! (Takes his guns out) Alright, guys, you ready for some Shadow Ivory Hunting?

Kimiko/Angel: (Takes out her bow and arrow) You'd better believe it, Other Father!

The other ten Thieves get their weapons ready as they prepare to fight the Shadow Airavata.

Ren/Joker: Then let's get to it!

Futaba/Oracle: Right! (Summons Necronomicon and gets inside of it)

The Shadow Airavata lets out a roar before firing more blasts of energy from its seven trunks.

Minato/Lion: Tarzan!

Minato summons Tarzan and has him put up a rock wall to protect everyone from the attack. The move works, but the rock wall breaks creating a cloud of dust. That's when Makoto jumps out the dust cloud and she's seen riding Johanna.

Makoto/Queen: Take this!

Makoto has Johanna use Freidyne on the Shadow Airavata, but the elephant Shadow uses his big eyes to fly upward and avoid the attack.

Kimiko/Angel: Well that's just not fair!

Kimiko takes out her bow and arrow and shoots rounds of arrows into the Shadow Airavata's side to do some damage and hopefully bring him back down to the ground, but to no avail.

Kimiko/Angel: Dang it! His hide is too thick!

Futaba/Oracle: That could be a problem! Hey, Crow, Tricky, Jinx, Patriot, do you four think you can ground this thing so Joker, Violet, Chief, and Sophie can deliver a decisive blow?

Toshiro/Patriot: You've got it!

Sputnik/Jinx: You've just got to juice us up first!

Futaba/Oracle: Consider it done!

From inside the Necronomicon, Futaba uses Heat Riser to temporarily boost the four Thieves' attack, defense, and speed.

Akechi/Crow: Alright, let's move!

Akechi, Sputnik, Toshiro, and Remus quickly run underneath the Shadow Airavata and they summon their Personas with the intention of attacking his feet.

Akechi/Crow: Robin Hood!

When Robin Hood gets summoned, Akechi has him use Kougaon on the Shadow Airavata's front right foot.

Sputnik/Jinx: Mulan!

When Mulan gets summoned, Sputnik has her use 'Floradyne', a strong Nature skill where two two large roses appear on either side of her and launch razor sharp petals at intense speeds. She uses this attack on the Shadow Airavata's front left foot.

Remus/Tricky: Merlin!

When Merlin gets summoned, Remus has him use Psiodyne on the Shadow Airavata's back left foot.

Toshiro/Patriot: Ernesto!

When Ernesto gets summoned, Toshiro has him use the Baywell 45MkII on the Shadow Airavata's back right foot.

The attacks land on the Shadow Airavata's feet causing him to roar in pain as it falls back to the ground. Sputnik, Remus, Akechi, and Toshiro run to a safe distance so they don't get crushed.

Futaba/Oracle: Alright, guys, he's all yours! Let him have it!

From inside the Necronomicon, Futaba uses Matarukaja to boost the attack power of Ren, Sophie, Sojiro, and Sumire's attacks. The Shadow Airavata stands up on its feet to face off against the four Phantom Thieves, who are ready to summon their Personas and launch a strong attack.

Sojiro/Chief: Cyrus!

When Cyrus gets summoned, Sojiro has him use Kougaon.

Sumire/Violet: Cendrillon!

When Cendrillon gets summoned, she has her use Kougaon.

Sophia/Sophie: Pandora!

When Pandora gets summoned, she has her use Kougaon.

Ren/Joker: Black Rider!

When Black Rider gets summoned, he has him use Mamudon.

The three Kougaons and one Mamudon come at the Shadow Airavata and they hit him hard, creating a wall of smoke.

Sumire/Violet: Game over!

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: I wouldn't be so sure!

Everyone looks over at the audience seats to see Falldown Kasumi in her relaxed position as she eats her popcorn.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: (With a mouthful of popcorn) You underestimate just how strong the Airavata really is.

Our heroes turn their attention back to the wall of smoke, and when it disappears…the Shadow Airavata is completely fine! He used his overly large ears as shields to protect him from the four attacks.

Sojiro/Chief: That's impossible!

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: As long as Airavata has his big ears to protect him, none of you can hurt him! Now, I'd love to see you all play with my pet some more, but I do believe it's his feeding time! So, Airavata, who do you want to nosh on first?

With a roar, the Shadow Airavata extends one of its trunks towards Ichiro, wrapping him up, lifting him off the ground, and pulling him closer with it.

Sumire/Violet: NO!

Kasumi/Violet: Oh a strong athletic type? Good source of protein! Excellent choice!

Our heroes watch as the Shadow Airavata stares at Ichiro, ready to eat him whole.

Ren/Joker: There's gotta be something we can do to save him!

Ichiro: Don't worry about me, guys! Save yourselves!

Kas' eyes dart from left to right as she tries to think of a way to save Ichiro. Left with no other choice, she runs at the Shadow Airavata, yelling all the while.

Sumire/Violet: Kas, wait!

Kas' yelling catches the Shadow Airavata's attention, so it throws Ichiro at her, stopping her in her tracks and knocking her to the ground. Seeing this makes the rest of our heroes gasp as Ichiro and Kas get their bearings straight.

Just then, one of the Shadow Airavata's trunks extends and grabs Kas, pulling her towards him.

Ichiro: Kas!

When it pulls Kas up close enough, the Shadow Airavata eyes the woman up and down like it did to Ichiro moments before. Seeing this makes Falldown Kasumi laugh.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: (Chuckles) Not a smart move rushing Airavata like that. You might have lived a little longer if you just let him eat his meal in peace.

Kas: (Getting squeezed by the Shadow Airavata's trunk) D-Damn it!

The rest of our heroes can only watch as Kas is about to meet her demise, Sumire rushing to help Ichiro on his feet.

Riku: There's gotta be something we can do! I mean, we can't just let that glorified pachyderm eat our friend!

Sumire looks at her friends, then at Ichiro, and finally at Kas.

Sumire/Violet: Kas, if you can hear me, listen up!

Hearing Sumire's voice causes Kas to turn towards her.

Sumire/Violet: I know we didn't get off on the right foot, but that's because I was too preoccupied with what you were like on the outside. But now that I caught a glimpse of what you were like on the inside, I got a chance to see just how strong, brave, and loyal you really are. Your friends are lucky to have someone like you in their lives, and your world's version of Ichiro and I should count themselves lucky to have you for a daughter! A beautiful soul like you shouldn't go down like this! I believe in you Kas, we all do! Find your true strength, break the chains that bind you, and push away the darkness!

Kas: (Smiles) Other Mother!

Kas then gets a look of determination on her face as she turns her attention towards Falldown Kasumi.

Kas: Hey! Evil Mother…Auntie…whoever you are! You think your pet elephant is enough to take me down? I suggest you try a different approach…because I'm here to stay!

Suddenly, Kas gets a pained look on her face as a splitting headache comes over her. Kas lets out a loud and painful scream, scarring the Shadow Airavata into dropping her to the ground. Kas lands on her knees and when she lifts her head back up she's wearing a red eye mask with white around the eyeholes and black lines running down the middle of it; it's made in the style of a luchador mask!

As Kas continues screaming, the Shadow Airavata backs away from her, annoying Falldown Kasumi.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: What are you doing, Airavata?! She's just screaming like a little baby! Crush her now!

Airavata doesn't listen and just watches as Kas writhes in pain. As she does, she hears a voice in her head; it's her Persona, Pentheslia.

Pentheslia: At long last, I have awoken to give you the power that you seek. For as long as you can remember, you've always been judged for who you really are. You've gotten approval from the ones who matter most in your life, but it'll take more than that to push away the darkness. So, shall we play…I am thou, thou art I…with this contract, let's smite the wicked and make this world a better place!

Kas quickly stands up on her feet and effortlessly rips off her eye mask causing blood to fly everywhere. When she did that, blue flames enveloped her. But when they cleared, her appearance had changed and her Persona stood behind her.

Kas' Phantom Thief attire consists of a black long-sleeved leotard with gray leggings and red combat boots. Draped over her shoulders is a red cape with the Phantom Thief logo on the outside. Her melee weapons are red boxing gloves with moveable fingers. As for a ranged weapon, she has a sawed off shotgun.

Penthesilea, Kas' Persona, has an appearance unlike the one she had in Persona 3. This version of Penthesilea, is a maroon skinned, muscular woman with long black hair sticking out of a golden helmet. Strapped to her left wrist is a square, golden shield and in her right hand is a silver sword. Draped around her body are green robes with a gold trim, and on her feet are golden sandals.

(BGM: Colors Flying High)

Our heroes are staring at Kas in amazement, happy to see that another one of their own had awakened to her Persona.

Remus/Tricky: Simply amazing!

Mai: (With hearts in hearts eyes) Kas…my love!

Sumire/Violet: Show that elephant what your made of, Kas!

Kas, with Penthesilea still behind her, glares up at the Shadow Airavata who just stares back at her, ready to fight some more.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: One of you becoming a Phantom Thief doesn't change anything. My Airavata is still going to make mincemeat out of you! Airavata, charge!

With a roar, Airavata charges at Kas, who still stares down the shadow with an unflinching look on her face.

Kas: Penthesilea, protect!

Penthesilea raises her sword up creating a rock wall, similar to when Minato has Tarzan make a rock wall for him. But this rock wall has spikes on one side of them, so the Shadow Airavata ends up running into the spikes and getting hurt, causing him to roar in pain.

Minato/Lion: (Frowns) What? How come her rock walls have spikes on them but mine don't!

Akihiro: Quit your whining, half brother.

While the Shadow Airavata gets its bearings straight, Kas leaps over the rock wall and practically flies over to the shadow, punching one of its tusks so hard that it breaks off, causing the Shadow Airavata to roar out in pain once more. Falldown Kasumi sees this unfold and she starts to wear a nervous look on her face. Seeing this action makes all of Kas' allies cheer her on.

After punching one of the Shadow Airavata's tusks off, the elephant tries to grab Kas with one of its trunks, but she dodges it before running up the trunk and leaping up high in the air to summon her Persona again.

Kas: Penthesilea!

When Penthesilea appears, she raises both of her hands in the air as two large swords made of rock come out from the ground. Penthesilea lowers her hands and the rock swords cut the Shadow Airavata's ears right off; this attack is a new Earth Skill called 'Tectonic Blade'.

With the Shadow Airavata on its last legs, Kas rejoins her friends and she turns to face them.

Kas: Anybody want to help me deliver the finishing blow to this thing, or what?

The other Phantom Thieves cheer in agreement and before Kas knows it, she's leading them all in an 'All Out Attack' against the Shadow Airavata. When the All Out Attack ends, Kas lands on the ground, rapidly punching the air a few times before posing with her fist in the air as the caption reads, 'I Am the Greatest!'

After the All Out Attack wraps up, the Shadow Airavata lets out a dying roar before falling onto the ground dead and fading away.

(END BGM)

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: No! My baby!

Falldown Kasumi was so distraught over the death of the Shadow Airavata that she didn't notice Kas jumping into the audience so she could get the Kiyoi Flower back from her.

Kas: Hey, asshole!

Falldown Kasumi looks to see Kas running at her and then…

POW!

Kas hits Falldown Kasumi so hard that she goes flying through the air, landing where the other Phantom Thieves are in the middle of the arena. When Kas hit Falldown Kasumi, it also caused her to let go of the Kiyoi Flower, and Kas managed to catch the plant before it fell to the ground.

When Falldown Kasumi gets back up, she finds herself surrounded by the likes of Minato, Makoto, Ren, Kimiko, Sojiro, Sumire, Futaba, Akechi, Sputnik, Remus, Toshiro, and Sophia. The Falldown Thief just glares at the group of heroes surrounded her before she gets up and takes something round out of her 'Victoria's Secret Compartment'; A.K.A her cleavage.

Falldown Kasumi/Violet: I'll remember this! Don't think for a second that you've won!

And with that, Falldown Kasumi throws down a smoke ball creating a wall of smoke causing everyone to start coughing. When the smoke clears, they see that Falldown Kasumi had run away.

Remus/Tricky: She got away! Aw, crumbs!

Kas: (Rejoins her friends) I wouldn't worry, guys. I'm sure that won't be the last we'll see of her. And besides, defeating her wasn't the main mission, getting this back was. (Holds up the Kiyoi Flower)

Ren/Joker: She's right. As long as we got the Kiyoi Flower from this fortress, I'd say this mission was a success.

Makoto/Queen: Not to mention Falldown Kasumi has a whole second fortress that we can infiltrate so we can change her heart.

Minato/Lion: We'll get her there. But for right now, we have bigger things to celebrate, like Kas becoming a Phantom Thief!

Kimiko/Angel: That's right! So, Kas, what do you want your codename to be?

Kas tries to think of a codename as she hands the Kiyoi Flower to Ren for him to hold.

Ren/Joker: How about 'Boxer'?

Kas: Too simple.

Sumire/Violet: What about 'Bruiser'?

Eiko: Knuckles?

Mai: Fist?

Kas: Enough about what we did to each other the other day, Mai.

Hearing that makes Mai chuckle while everyone around her cringes and tries to hold back vomit.

Riku: Okay, we did not need to know that, Kas.

Kas: (Chuckles) Anyway, while most of those names are good, what do you guys think about 'Crash'?

Minato/Lion: Crash, huh? I like it! I think it suits you perfectly.

Kas/Crash: Alright! From henceforth, I am the Phantom Thief, 'Crash'!

Kimiko/Angel: Welcome to the party, Crash!

Kas/Crash: Thanks, Angel.

Ren/Joker: Well, guys, I think we've seen enough of this carnival. I say we get out of here so I can cook you all up a nice meal for a job well done.

Makoto/Queen: Only if I can help you, sweetie.

Ren/Joker: Of course. (Kisses her before leading everyone out of the tent)

As Ren leads everyone out, Ichiro and Kas are bringing up the rear.

Ichiro: Hey, Kas, I just want to thank you for saving me. You really are something great, you know. And I'm sure your universe's version of me knows about how great you really are.

Kas/Crash: That means a lot, Other Father, and I was glad to help you. Besides, you can't die yet. I still have to get you and Other Mother to shack up.

Ichiro: Uh, maybe don't make things move that fast, but I get the general gist of what you're saying.

Kas/Crash: And now that Other Mother has accepted me for who I really am, it'll make getting you guys together that much easier. This is going to be good!

And with that, all of Group 1 leave the big top tent before leaving the entire carnival and heading back into the Woodlands of Denial so they can make Healing Shots with the Kiyoi Flower they absconded and find Falldown Kasumi's second fortress.

---

(Desert of Anger - Western Town)

As Falldown Zenkichi sits in the Sheriff's Office of the Western Town Fortress in the Desert of Anger, a Shadow Parrot flies in through the window holding a letter in his beak. Falldown Zenkichi takes the letter from the Shadow Parrot and opens it up as the evil bird flies away.

Falldown Zenkichi/Wolf: Dear, comrade, be aware that half of those blasted Phantom Thieves stole the Kiyoi Flower from my carnival and the other half is likely on their way to your Western Town Fortress to steal your Kiyoi Flower if they haven't infiltrated it already. Be prepared, dearest friend, and good luck, - Violet.

Annoyed, Falldown Zenkichi crumples the letter up and throws it in a nearby wastebasket.

Falldown Zenkichi/Wolf: Fret not, Violet. I won't let those Phantom Thieves get anywhere near my Kiyoi Flower! Not while I'm around! So, come at me with all of your hatred, Phantom Thieves! Wherever you are now, I only ask one thing of you! (Takes his revolvers out) Do your worst!

The screen fades to black with the only thing left visible are Falldown Zenkichi's angry and evil eyes, but it isn't long before they disappear and the whole screen fades to black as we cut to the credits.

TO BE CONTINUED…

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(Closing Credits Theme: 'Black Hole Sun' by Soundgarden)

(Opening Instrumentals)

(The camera pans upwards with a nighttime backdrop. We see images of Chikao, Kunikazu/Colonel, Wakaba/Pharaoh, Tae/Raven, Sojiro/Chief, Sputnik/Jinx, Remus/Tricky, Eiko/Jester, and Sadayo/Lady staring up at the night sky)

(In my eyes, indisposed, in disguises no one knows. Hides the face, lies the snake, and the sun in my disgrace)

(As the camera continues to pan up, we see an image of Daisuke/Ace, Himari/Bumblebee, Kimiko/Angel, Kana/Darner, and Ryuta/Owl flying through the air as Hotaru/Feature records them on his camera)

(Boiling heat, summer stench, neath the black the sky looks dead. Call my name through the cream, and I'll hear you scream again)

(As the camera continues to pan upward, we see an image of Sophia/Sophie, Kaoru/Spore, Naoya/Beat, Kazuya/Courage, Sumire/Violet, Ichiro/Hawk, Hifumi/Wraith, and Hayato/Romeo fighting against a small group of shadows)

(Black hole sun, won't you come and wash away the rain? Black hole sun, won't you come, won't you come)

(The camera pans upward some more and we see an image of Toshiro/Patriot, Eri/Partisan, Shinya/Ranger, Akane/Spirit fighting against a Venus Fly Trap Shadow who has the likes of Mana/Shogun, Mitsu/Edgerunner, Akihiro/Mariner, and Wataru/Maestro wrapped up in its vines. As that's going on, Yutaka/Dizzy and Nayoko/Warrioress are roller blading around it in order to get the Shadow wound up)

(Black hole sun, won't you come and wash away the rain? Black hole sun, won't you come, won't you come (Black hole sun, black hole sun)? Won't you come (Black hole sun, black hole sun)? Won't you come (Black hole sun, black hole sun)? Won't you come (Black hole sun, black hole sun)?)

(After another upward pan, we see Mai/Enigma using her Persona to create a replica of the Buster Sword. Mai is seen charging at a Serpopard Shadow alongside Riku/Clockwork, Kas/Crash, Nariko/Mage, Kaito/Professor, Mika/Cheetah, and Old Morana/Old Mona.)

(Another pan up shows Zenkichi/Wolf, Sae/Arbiter, Shiho/Shinobi, Yuuki/Paladin, Takeishi/Coyote, Nakaoka/Diesel, Chihaya/Prophet, and Ichiko/Flapper battling a Shadow Ripper (Based on Jack the Ripper).)

(One more upwards pan and we see the likes of Ryuji/Skull, Morgana/Mona, Ann/Panther, Yusuke/Fox, Makoto/Queen, Futaba/Oracle, and Haru/Noir as they prepare to do battle against Claudette and Sugimura.)

(Closing instrumentals)

(The camera stop panning upwards as we cut to Ren/Joker, Minato/Lion, and Akechi/Crow standing on a mountaintop as they stare at a solar eclipse, where images of Hoshigami and the Falldown Thieves appear, glowering down at them)

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Cultural References

1: The title is a reference to a famous saying from famous showman P.T Barnum, "There's a sucker born every minute".

2: Kasumi's Circus fortress is loosely based on video game carnival levels like Witchyworld from Banjo-Tooie and Elesa's Gym from the first Pokemon Black and White Game.

3: The bit where Remus and Sputnik smash the mirror is a reference to a bit from 'The Eric Andre Show'.

4: The idea of the East and West Group of Phantom Thieves contacting each other via mirror is not only continuity from the series finale of 'Slice of Life', but it's also based on how characters would communicate with Lord Death in 'Soul Eater'.

5: Philemon saying 'Goodbye and Good Luck' could be seen as a reference to Edward R. Murrow's sign off phrase of 'Goodnight and Good Luck'.

6: The Spinners' 'Rubberband Man' being sung by Minato, Kimiko, Riku, Mai, Futaba, Kana, Akihiro, Takeishi, Eri, Wakaba, and Ichiko as they head to the first fortress is a reference to when the Guardians of the Galaxy got introduced in 'Avengers Infinity War'.

7: Shadow Barker #1 saying that the carnival has everything is a reference to Bill Hader's character Stefon and his routines from Saturday Night Live. It helps that the Shadow Barkers are voiced by Bill Hader himself.

8: Hoshigami throwing a tantrum in the beginning is a reference to how certain villains like Kylo Ren from 'Star Wars Episode VII' and Josee from 'Total Drama Presents: The Ridonculous Race' would throw tantrums over losing to the heroes.

9: Sojiro constantly accidentally hitting his friends in the face with the basketball is based on the Gravity Falls episode 'The Time Traveler's Pig' when Dipper kept hitting Wendy in the eye with a baseball.

10: The dancing game that Eiko plays is based on the popular 'Dance Dance Revolution' franchise. Furthermore, the music playing is 'Red Zone' by Tatsh & NAOKI.

11: Sputnik responding, 'I've never danced' when asked if she can play the dancing game is based on the 'I've never jumped' scene from the recent Garfield movie.

12: Takeishi responding, 'I just don't want to' when asked if he can play the dancing game is based on a catchphrase of Hilary Banks from 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air'.

13: Ichiro uses Kim Possible's catchphrase of 'What's the sitch', when regrouping with his friends.

14: The idea of the small tents containing larger pocket dimensions based on carnival rides are based on things like the tents from 'Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire' or the TARDIS from 'Doctor Who'.

15: Makoto makes a reference to the P!nk song 'Funhouse' when the Shadow Clowns appear.

16: Kimiko calls the dragon themed roller coaster Shadow, Puff the Magic Dipshit, which is a reference to the Peter, Paul and Mary song 'Puff the Magic Dragon'.

17: The quote at the end of Kimiko's All-Out-Attack is a reference to Pit from 'Kid Icarus: Uprising'.

18: The idea of the 'Teacup Bumper Cars' can be seen as a reference to the 'Mad Tea Cups' summon from Kingdom Hearts 3.

19: Kas' quote upon seeing Toshiro and Eri kiss each other in the Tunnel of Love ride mimics a line from Carly Shay in the iCarly episode 'iTwins'.

20: Minato quotes Joseph Hisfriendfromschool from SML/SuperMarioLogan in the episode 'SML Movie: The Talent Show' when Sojiro wins the basketball game.

21: Kas' line of 'Fork it over, Frankenstein' is based on a line Josh Nichols used in the Drake & Josh episode 'Pool Shark'.

22: Kas flipping off the Shadow Barker is based on the ending of the Helluva Boss episode 'Spring Broken' where Blitzo flipped off Verosika Mayday.

23: The title of Sumire, Toshiro, and Sophia's Showtime Attack is based on the 1999 film, 'The Big Lebowski'.

24: Falldown Kasumi quotes Langston Hughes when she says that all happiness, logic, and reason come to the Metaverse to 'shrivel up and die like a raisin in the sun'.

25: The Shadow Airavata is based on the Airavata elephant from Hindu mythology. It's big ears are also a reference to Dumbo, the elephant from the Disney movie of the same name.

26: Kas punching the Shadow Airavata's tusk off of its body is a reference to when Marcus Damon punched one of SaberLeomon's fangs off in Episode 23 of Digimon Data Squad

27: The quote at the end of Kas' All-Out-Attack is a reference to boxer Muhammed Ali.

28: Remus says 'Aw, crumbs' when Falldown Kasumi escapes, referencing a catchphrase of Moxxie's from 'Helluva Boss'.

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Voice Cast

Xander Mobus: Ren Amamiya/Joker, Falldown Ren/Joker

Cherami Leigh: Makoto Niijima/Queen

Cassandra Lee Morris: Morgana/Mona, Old Morgana/Old Mona

Max Mittelman: Ryuji Sakamoto

Laura Post: Sumire Yoshizawa/Violet, Falldown Kasumi/Violet

Laura Bailey: Eiko Takao

Tom Taylorson: Falldown Zenkichi/Wolf

Jamieson Price: Sojiro Sakura/Chief

Elizabeth Maxwell: Sae Niijima

J Michael Tatum: Kuro Takeishi

Colleen O'Shaughnessey: Akane Hasegawa

Erica Lindbeck: Futaba/Oracle

Amanda Winn-Lee: Ichiko Ohya

Christine Maria Cabanos: Shiho Suzui

Josh Keaton: Kaoru Iwai

Janice Kawaye: Kana Magario

MacLeod Andrews: Toshiro Kasukabe/Patriot

Ben Diskin: Ichiro Tanaka

Tara Platt: Mika Shibata

Megan Harvey: Sophia/Sophie

Troy Baker: Ryuta Watanabe

Abby Trott: Tae Takemi

Leanne Albanese: Eri Natsuhara

Todd Haberkorn: Minato Amamiya/Lion

Megan Shipman: Kimiko Watanabe/Angel

Kira Buckland: Nariko Mishima

Cristina Vee: Mana Amamiya

Jamie Marchi: Mitsu Amamiya

Bryce Papenbrook: Riku Mishima

Lara Jill Miller: Mai Mishima-Tanaka

Elsie Lovelock - Himari Yajima

Kari Wahlgren - Kasumi 'Kas' Tanaka, Penthesilea

James Arnold Taylor: Yutaka Watanabe

Robin Atkin Downes: Akihiro Hagiwara

Monica Rial: Nayoko Hashimoto

Richard Steven Horvitz: Remus/Tricky

Luci Christian: Sputnik/Jinx

Robbie Daymond: Goro Akechi/Crow

Erin Fitzgerald: Wakaba Isshiki

JK Simmons: Ugetsu Hoshigami

Kyle Hebert: Shadow Ninja

Travis Willingham: Philemon

Elijah Wood: Chikao Shinoda

Bill Hader: Shadow Barkers

Alex Brightman: Shadow Clowns

Brendan Blaber: Shadow Magician

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(Before I wrap this up, I just want to give a little update. This might be the last 'From Metaverse to Multiverse' episode for a bit because I want to get to work on a new fanfic idea for the 'WildCard Fanfic Multiverse'. I've been rewatching 'Digimon Frontier' and I would very much like to make a sequel fanfic to it that ties in with the overall lore of what I've built so far. I'd also like to finally finish get around to finishing Episode 5 of 'South Park: Warzone of Dreams')

(Once I finish Episode 5 of the Digimon Frontier 02 Fanfic I want to make, that's when I'll rotate between that, From Metaverse to Multiverse, and South Park: Warzone Collection so all three series get the same amount of love. Well, that's my little update. I hope you're all enjoying this fanfic so far, I apologize for any inconveniences this news may have caused, and I hope you have a wonderful day)