Book II: Vestiges of Vein
Chapter I: The Arrivals
"Hello, friends. I'm Amamiya Ren. I'm also Joker, leader of the Phantom Thieves, Japan's greatest urban legends.
Can you believe it's been over a month since me and my friends stopped Datenshi and the alternate version of Yaldabaoth? The fated battle was fought in Chiyoda, Tokyo. It turned out to be an even bigger battle than the one against the original Yaldabaoth four years ago. The alternate God of Control merged with a soldier named Kanashī Seishin who lived through Japan's social and economic status growth and decay across the ages. This soldier, who we came to know as Datenshi, merged with Yaldabaoth's essence to become Yaldabaoth ΩX.
In the middle of the battle with Datenshi, Hifumi and Sion fought alongside us. In an act of selflessness, Hifumi took a fatal blow for Sion and seemingly died. Then, to our shock, Hifumi was resurrected by divine power, originally a part of Yaldabaoth, and became Shin-Io. This was the result of that cloned amber bead containing Io's essence that's inside Hifumi, which grants her the power to become Shin-Io. Shin-Io's aura was so powerful she granted us and Sion's group magnificent powers called Persona's Ascendancy and the Envoys of Vein respectively. With the power of Persona's Ascendancy, I became Raoul ΩX. After me and my friends vanquished our Knights of Control counterparts, we aided Shin-Io and Sion against Yaldabaoth ΩX.
It was a harder fought battle than the one with the original Yaldabaoth. In the end,, Shin-Io, Sion, and I were the last ones to stand against Yaldabaoth ΩX. Once we defeated Yaldabaoth ΩX, Datenshi gave his parting words and reminded us of the harsh reality that there was still some corruption out there to deal with. As Datenshi ceased to exist, the spirit of Seishin went to the afterlife in his dimension. Both were freed from corrupted Amrita.
Shortly after Datenshi passed, our friend, Sion, ceased. While we mourned for Sion, Shin-Io stayed resolute. In response, Shin-Io used the last of her powers to get rid of Yaldabaoth ΩX's distortions and restored the world to normal. Because of this, we lost our Persona's Ascendancy forms and returned to our normal selves. It makes sense since those forms were tied to Shin-Io's power. After that, Hifumi lost the powers of Shin-Io, but her memories of Sion never ceased.
Following these events, Yumeko and her friends sent their Guardian Spirits back to the spiritual realm. The three gamblers bid us farewell. Akechi Goro, who returned to fight with us again as a Phantom Thief, left and disappeared.
Shortly after our last urban adventure, I married the love of my life, Takamaki Ann. All the friends and acquaintances we made came to our wedding. Although only we Thieves can see them, Igor and Lavenza were there to witness our wedding. This was one of the best and fulfilling days of my life. With the last adventure behind us, Ann and I feel we could effectively retire being Phantom Thieves and just enjoy the rest of our lives peacefully. I think we've earned some rest.
Then again, there's barely time for rest in the adult world. While I've been finishing up college, I've been working a part-time job at Toranomon Hills, a 52-story high building and the second largest landmark in the Tokyo area. I've been doing pretty well all things considered, though balancing school, a part-time job, and my married life can get busy.
But, enough about me. Let's see how the other Thieves have been doing with their lives lately."
Amamiya-Takamaki Residence (奄美・高崎 レジデンス)/Shibuya, Tokyo (渋谷区, 東京)/September 28, 2020 (2020年9月28日)/5:30 PM (JST)
The front door opened and in walked Amamiya-Takamaki Ren still dressed in his work clothes. Having removed his shoes on his way home, he had a gray blazer hanging over his right shoulder.
"Ann, I'm home," Ren announced, taking his shoes off and putting on in-house slippers.
"In the living room!" Called out Ren's wife.
As he went into the living room, he saw his beautiful wife sprawled on their sofa. Ann's alluring blue eyes fell on Ren's dark gray eyes. The couple approached and kissed each other.
"So, how's your day, Ren?"
"Busy if you couldn't already tell. I sure as hell know you've been since you were crashing on the couch."
"What can I say? I've been in demand," confidently smiled the former Panther.
"Want to talk about it?"
"How about over dinner? There's this place I want us to try out!"
"Alright, well I guess we don't need to get dressed?"
"Nope, we're fine the way we are," Ann took her husband's hand.
"Let's go then." Ren smiled and eyed the scarlet wedding ring she's worn since the wedding.
It's already been two weeks since their wedding. The young Japanese man and his one-quarter American wife have had a good start to their wedded life. They've allowed themselves to become a working couple. Realizing Ann wasn't the stay-at-home type of wife, Ren was more than happy to let his wife expand her horizons in modeling. As long as they were both working, they'd at least have enough to pay their monthly apartment rent.
Conspicuous by his absence was Morgana, who used to hang with and live with Ren. Now that Ren and Ann moved into their own place, Morgana decided to let them live independently. Though it was hard for Morgana to see his 'Lady Ann' married to Ren, he was fine to let go of his former crush. However, that didn't stop him from sometimes dropping by to visit Ren and Ann. They were more than happy to let Morgana see them.
"Before we go, guess who just got on the front cover of that magazine I was shooting for?" Ann winked, picking up a magazine from their dining table. She revealed the cover, which had her dressed in the same attire but her fully unbuttoning her red trench coat. "Ta-da!"
"Yep, that's you alright. You look great, Ann," he smiled proudly for his wife's latest success.
"Aren't I always hot-looking? Let's eat dinner to celebrate my success!"
"Sure, anything you want, Ann," Ren smiled as he and Ann headed out the door.
They lovingly held each other on the way out.
As they walked out of their apartment, Morgana watched them from afar. Morgana smiled and nodded before turning to leave.
Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department (警視庁)/Kasumigaseki (霞が関)/Chiyoda, Japan (千代田区, 東京)/6:00 PM (JST)
"Ms. Niijima!" A young male officer garbed in the Tokyo Metropolitan officer uniform, consisting of a long-sleeved light blue dress shirt with a black tie, a dark blue vest overlapping the shirt, dark blue pants, and a blue police cap. "Thank you for supervising my first day on the job!" He saluted his superior.
Turning to face the rookie officer, Makoto commended, "Good job today, rookie. You're doing good, but keep it up. The department can't have any slackers and I'll make sure you don't get off task."
With that, Niijima Makoto turned to leave and hopped on her department issued motorcycle. She checked the time, which was now five minutes past six.
"Still got time to pick you up," she muttered, referring to her significant other. As she started her motorcycle, Makoto heard two fellow officers gossiping near her. Veering toward her right side, Makoto noticed a young woman and a young man dressed in their uniform. "Shouldn't you two be on duty?"
Upon hearing her name, the woman officer whipped around and bowed. "Yes, we were on our way, Officer Niijima!" The female officer apologetically responded. She is seen with short, black neck-length hair and bright Venetian eyes. She has the same uniform as Makoto's. "C'mon, Hiroshi, you heard Officer Niijima, let's get our butts back to work!" She lightly pushed him forward.
"Hey, you almost made me spill my soda, Tori!" Hiroshi angrily spat out, barely holding onto his soda can. Seen as taller than his two female colleagues, the young man has short, black neck-length hair and black eyes. He is garbed in his men's uniform, consisting of a black buttoned dress shirt coupled with a dark blue tie and a white shirt underneath, black pants, and black shoes. He quickly put on his black policeman's cap.
"I thought you said you'd quit drinking carbonated drinks?" Tori pointed to Hiroshi's can.
"Hn, this one's non-carbonated, Tooo-riii!" He got snippy with his partner, rolling his tongue while mockingly saying her name. In response, Tori shrugged her shoulders at him. "Don't shrug at me!"
Giggling, Makoto kindly added. "Thanks for always brightening up my day, you two. And please, just call me Makoto." With that, after putting on her safety helmet, she drove out of the parking lot.
"Makoto, sure. Why not?" Tori smiled and tipped her hat, watching her leave.
Shujin Academy Field Track (修人学園のフィールドトラック)/Aoyama-Itchome (青山一丁目)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/6:15 PM (JST)
Revisiting his old high school field, Sakamoto Ryuji stretched his legs and completed his warm-up exercises. He got into a runner's stance and crouched over, staring intently at the distance he was preparing to run.
"Ok, man! Ya got this! You're gonna kick your previous record's freakin' ass!" Ryuji focused, psyching himself up for another sprint. "Go!" He roared and sprinted like there was no tomorrow.
As he picked up the pace, he pictured himself fulfilling his passionate dream of becoming a runner and becoming a sports instructor.
Hell yeah! I can do this! Ryuji internally shouted in his mind.
Roppongi (六本木)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/6:45 PM (JST)
Having just left from a grand opening of a local Okumura Café, Okumura Haru waited for her ride to pick her up at a designated spot.
Haru checked her watch and smiled. "Just a little longer…"
And with that, she heard the sound of a motorcycle coming near her. Haru pivoted toward the direction of the motorcycle driver.
A playful smile adorned Haru's face as she eyed her driver. "Took you long enough."
Tokyo Institute of Technology (東京工業大学)/Futaba's Dormitory/Meguro, Tokyo (目黒区, 東京)/7:15 PM (JST)
The loud sound of fingers frequently tapping on computer keys filled the entire room. The dormitory room of Sakura Futaba resembled a typical otaku's.
Sitting with her feet on her chair, Futaba intently stared at her computer monitor browsing for information on her favorite 'interwebs' searching for confidential information and online shopping for more otaku merchandise. All while doing this, she was on a phone chat with an 'old friend'.
"You just got back from presenting your art gallery at Tokyo National Museum? That's neat, Inari! I wish I could've been there, but y'know classes and stuff," Futaba said while munching on some hot chips.
Futaba's dorm room perfectly represented her otaku passions with accessories like posters, action figures, and video games, which decorated her dorm. Her action figures consisted of Kamen Rider (Kamen Riders 1 and 2, Black, Kuuga, Den-O, Kiva, Decade, Double, OOO, Fourze, Gaim, Ex-Aid, Build, Zi-O, and Zero-One), Pokémon, Doraemon, Mawaru Penguindrum, Little Witch Academia Nendoroid figures, Retsuko (Aggretsuko), Ultraman (the Netflix Anime version), Super Smash Bros. and Amiibo figurines. However, these paled in comparison to Futaba's prized possessions: her action figures from the Phoenix Ranger Featherman R series, which blended in with her Kamen Rider collection.
"It's quite alright, Futaba. There's always other presentations of mine you can come see."
Futaba clamped her hands overhead. "I'm so sorry! I'll make up for it!"
"You needn't apologize, Futaba. Your studies come first, which by the way…"
Futaba lifted her glasses above the bridge of her nose. She evilly smirked. "Hm, it's going according to plan."
"Is that your way of saying 'my grades and studies have been going well'?"
"Exactly right, Inari!"
Yusuke's exasperated sigh was heard on the other line. "Do you need to still keep calling me that, Futaba?"
"Yeah, because it still suits you, Inari!" Futaba opened up a cup of hot ramen. She felt the ramen juice burn her finger. "Ow! Oooo, that one stung!"
"Ramen again?"
"Yeah? I'm too lazy to cook my own meals."
"Eating too much instant ramen will make you gain weight."
"Hey, don't talk about a girl's weight! Geez, Inari! You jerk!"
Yusuke chuckled modestly. "My apologies. Perhaps I could offer to make you dinner sometime?"
"Your place again?"
"Yeah, if you're ok with that?"
Futaba smirked coyly. "Sure, why not? Even I can get tired of instant ramen and chips. And I do need to worry about my intake."
"I agree. You cannot have too many carbs and sodium."
Leaning back against her ergonomic gaming chair, she let out a heavy sigh and grinned. "You really do care about me, Inari."
Yusuke's Apartment (ユースケのアパート)/Taitō, Tokyo (台東区, 東京)/7:20 PM (JST)
While listening to Futaba, the former Fox sipped some warm cocoa.
"Then, it shall be our date, Futaba. We can meet at the Tokyo National Museum."
"Yep! See you tomorrow!"
"Good night, Futaba," Yusuke said as they simultaneously hung up. He smiled. "Who knew we would be dating together?"
Makoto and Haru's Apartment (マコトと春のアパート)/Roppongi (六本木)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/7:45 (JST)
Haru walked into a two-person apartment she shared with her significant other.
"Home sweet home, Mako-chan," Haru smiled, referring to her preferred nickname for Makoto. She turned around and faced Makoto, who walked up and kissed Haru's lips.
"Enjoy the drinks we had?"
"Yes, but you'll need to cut down, Mako-chan."
"Can't help it after another day of training another rookie? That seems to be my job lately."
Haru smiled. "Don't worry, Mako-chan. Just keep at it, sweetie, and you'll rise up the rankings to get promoted. You just need to take one step at a time."
Makoto smiled and nodded. "Zenkichi wasn't wrong when he told me I'd be away from home often. Oh, what am I even complaining about? I'm living my dream for my father's sake."
"That's the spirit, Mako-chan. Now, let's get you washed up."
"I'm long overdue for a hot bath. Make sure to massage those shoulders like last time."
Haru took off Makoto's tie and watched her begin to undress. "You got it, Mako-chan."
Leaning back inside their bathtub, Makoto relaxed in a hot bubble bath that helped relax her body. She let her hair down. The foam of the bath soap bubbled up to the surface, covering nearly all of Makoto's naked body. She had her feet sticking out on the other end of the tub. With her sleeves rolled up, Haru leaned outside the bathtub and massaged herbal oil across Makoto's shoulders.
"Mm, that's more like it! Right there!" Makoto let out a deep, relaxed sigh.
"Need me to unwind those strained back muscles, Mako-chan, my love?" Haru whispered into Makoto's right ear.
"That'd be great," the police woman smiled, blowing bubbles from her hands. She winced when Haru pressed a little hard. "Maybe soften a bit on that spot."
Haru genuinely smiled. "Sure, Mako-chan." With that, she applied a softer pressure on her lover's right shoulder.
"Thanks, Haru-chan. I know it hasn't been long, but I can really feel our relationship going somewhere. I know it's going to work out between us."
"I was thinking the same thing, Mako-chan. I really do mean that." Haru said, rubbing her face against Makoto's hand and kissing it.
"So, care to join me? I've made some room in the tub," Makoto patted the bubbly water while pulling her legs forward. She coyly invited Haru to enjoy the warm bubble bath.
Not one to let down her new lover, Haru accepted and disrobed her clothing. She stepped in fully naked and covering her breasts.
"What's wrong, Haru-chan? It's just us. No one's going to see us."
"Right," Haru relaxed, feeling the warm water soak her body. She and Makoto ever so casually and lovingly held each other's hands.
The long-haired brunette and the curly auburn-haired woman exchanged passionate looks. They leaned over and kissed each other.
Café Leblanc (純喫茶ルブラン)/Yongen-Jaya, Tokyo (四軒茶屋, 東京)/8:00 PM (JST)
After dinner, Ren and Ann stopped by to visit Sakura Sojiro, who still ran his successful Café Leblanc. Sojiro was surprised but happy to see the young man he was a caretaker to for about a year. He was happier to see Ren married to one of the ladies out of his circle of friends.
Though, even to this day, Ren wonders how Sojiro's business has been able to survive primarily on its two major selling items: coffee and curry.
"Your coffee is still good stuff, but you could work up spicing up the curry menu," Ren critiqued his adoptive father's curry items.
"Nah, your curry is still pretty delish!" Ann gave her seal of approval.
"Oh, stop you two," Sojiro chuckled modestly. "I'm happy you two could drop by on such short notice. I'd thought you'd forget all about this old man who continues selling coffee and curry, the oddest dish combination, I know."
Ann giggled. "We'd never forget you, Sojiro! You stuck with us when we told you we were the Phantom Thieves. You were even there for our wedding. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being supportive of us."
Sojiro smiled and nodded.
Ren raised a coffee cup to Sojiro. "And why would I forget about you, old man? After all, you put up with me and my crap for a year."
Sojiro tried stifling a chuckle. "And still the smart alec like I remember you, Ren." He couldn't feel prouder to see Ren grow up into a responsible adult and marry into a stable relationship. He poured himself some coffee and raised it in the couple's honor. "Here's to a strong and healthy relationship, you two."
Ren and Ann, too, raised their coffee cups. "And to an everlasting relationship."
"And here's to a successful first year for Futaba's university life," Sojiro drank to Ren and Futaba's next stages in their lives.
Ren and Ann faced each other.
"To my angel."
"And to my Joker."
They drank their coffee to honor their marriage.
Tokyo Disneyland (東京ディズニーランド)/Urayasu (浦安市)/Chiba Prefecture (千葉県)/September 30, 2020 (2020年9月30日)/10:45 AM (JST)
It was as perfect a day as any for families and couples to visit this Disney theme park, the first one built outside the United States. Alongside its companion park, Tokyo DisneySea, it attracted thousands of local visitors and overseas tourists.
Among the couples visiting the theme park, Yoshizawa Sumire and her new boyfriend came for some thrills and sightseeing. After standing in line for over 30 minutes, Sumire and her boyfriend entered Castle Carrousel.
"So, we're actually going to ride this, Sumire?" A young man with short, neck-length flax yellow hair, brown eyes, and a light cream complexion. From Sumire's glance, he is garbed in a white hoodie with long black sleeves and a yellow cloud design embellished on the back of it. He also has on Capri light gray pants and dark brown dress shoes.
"Yes, it's going to be fun, Eugene!" Sumire gave her brightest smile. Grabbing his hand, Sumire and Eugene each rode on a carousel horse.
"I honestly haven't ridden on these since I was a kid," modestly chuckled Eugene, who awkwardly sat on his carousel horse.
"Then, pretend you're a kid again and reminisce that childhood while this ride is going!" Sumire yelled out, openly encouraging her boyfriend to find his nostalgic memories.
Not one to dissuade his energetic Japanese girlfriend, the Caucasian foreigner took a deep breath and reflected on his childhood memories. That helped spark his innermost child while holding onto the carousel horse. He noted Sumire giggling and laughing as the ride started for them. Her lively and energetic personality instilled him with positive vibes.
"Thanks, Sumire. I needed this," Eugene kindly stated, holding her hand during the remainder of the ride.
"My pleasure," Sumire smiled brightly, holding her boyfriend's hand.
Elsewhere in the park, and far away from Sumire and Eugene's activities, the Gambler trio, Yumeko, Ryōta, and Mary, are exploring the park. They saw park goers riding on numerous rides, including Dumbo the Flying Elephant, the Jungle Cruise, and Splash Mountain.
While scouring through the theme park for rides, the Gamblers took selfies and group photos in front of some attractions and with the costumed Disney characters, including a group shot in front of Cinderella Castle, the iconic symbol of Tokyo Disneyland.
Along the way, Yumeko, Ryōta, and Mary passed by Big Thunder Mountain. Riding in this attraction is a mixed ethnic couple: a young Thai man with short, black neck-length hair, black eyes, a green shirt, blue jeans, and blue & white sneakers. Sitting beside him is a beautiful Navajo woman with long, black back-length hair fixed in one long braided-haired tail, emerald eyes, a white t-shirt with an army green jacket, a necklace with emerald and aqua stones, blue slim jeans, and black & gray mesh sneakers.
"C'mon, don't be nervous, Samantha," the Thai man calmly reassured his Navajo girlfriend, who grasped his hand tight. "You're safe with me."
"Thanks, I know I'll feel better being with you, Huey," she replied, smiling at him.
Elsewhere, the Gambler trio walked beyond the It's a Small World, Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin, Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek, and Star Tours - The Adventures Continue attractions.
When they passed by Space Mountain, another couple are seen riding it. A young Caucasian man with short, dark brown neck-length hair, blue eyes, a gray Ac/DC shirt with lettering in black, black jeans, and white & black tennis shoes is sitting next to his girlfriend. The young woman is a young Japanese woman with long, black back-length hair in a twin-tailed hairstyle, violet eyes, a violet t-shirt, a red and purple beaded necklace, blue jean shorts, and blue & white slip-on sneakers.
"You ready for this, Cammy?" The young man asked his Japanese girlfriend.
"Let's do this, Lance," she replied as they prepared for the thrill Space Mountain was set to bring.
"So many rides to choose from! I can't even begin which one we should ride first!" Yumeko energetically squeed with joy.
"It's too bad Ren and his friends were too busy with other things," Ryōta said.
"Just let them, besides there's always another chance to catch up for a reunion. Still, yeah I do miss hanging with those guys," Mary openly stated.
"But, we're going to see Hifumi very soon, right? We'll get to see her boyfriend Skyler. I really want to know if he remembers us!" The Compulsive Gambler wondered about her meeting Skyler in person.
"Keep this in mind before we see them, the Sion we knew is gone, but we can give Skyler a chance. Of course, he's not going to have old Sion's memories since he lives here," Mary reminded her.
"I know," Yumeko sadly smiled as she hugged Mary and Ryōta. "Thanks for telling me all I need to know, you two. I love you two."
Patting his friend's back, Ryōta smiled. "Sure thing, Yumeko."
"Sooo, which ride do you guys wanna go on first?!" Yumeko asked, quickly shifting her somber mood to a gleeful one in an instant.
"Might I suggest we try The Haunted Mansion?" Mary sneakily grinned. "That'll surely bring you some chills and thrills."
"Oh, oh, can we, Ryōta?" Yumeko asked him, who was seen modestly scratching his head.
"Why am I the one who has to decide?" Ryōta wondered.
"C'mon, I've already suggested The Haunted Mansion," Mary shrugged.
"Then, that one."
Quickly snatching her friends' hands, Yumeko quickly raced off toward the direction of The Haunted Mansion. As soon as they arrived, they waited in line for the next 20 minutes. Once the trio got on, only Yumeko and Mary were able to fill one car, causing Ryōta to take the next car behind them.
During the ride, rather than Yumeko screaming with terror, it was Mary and Ryōta who let out frightful wails. On the other hand, Yumeko giggled incessantly and flailed her arms over her head.
"Yay! That was fun! Let's do that again!" Yumeko cheerfully yelled out, eliciting unnerved looks from Ryōta and Mary.
"No, thanks!" Ryōta and Mary cried out in unison. Before making another comment, Ryōta and Mary briefly exchanged glares and smiled at each other before Yumeko stepped in between her two friends and held their hands.
"Ok, let's go and find the next ride!" Yumeko gleefully declared. Before long, the Compulsive Gambler just noticed she was holding Ryōta and Mary's hands, causing her and her two friends to blush.
"Hey, Yumeko?" Ryōta muttered.
"Geez, why am feeling flustered? I'm only holding your hand?" Mary wondered herself over why she started to blush just holding her friend's hand.
"Gee, I dunno," Yumeko smirked despite her face flushing bright pink. "But, I kinda like it. It's a nice feeling."
For the moment, the Gambler trio said nothing and continued their walk through the theme park, still holding hands.
Outside the Public Prosecutors Office/Tokyo District Special Investigation Department/Roppongi (六本木)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/5:15 PM (JST)
Preparing to leave her office, Niijima Sae finished signing the last piles of paperwork. She then got up. Her stern gaze meticulously eyed her office clock.
"It's about time. I never thought I'd be done," Sae sighed out of exasperation.
After grabbing her black purse, she headed for the door and opened it, only to be taken by surprise when a white bouquet was pushed in front of her.
"Hojo? Could you not surprise me like that?" Sae addressed the man holding the bouquet in front of her.
"Sorry, Sae dear, I should knock first. After all, my wife is now the SIU Director," Hojo acknowledged Sae's recent promotion to the director's position.
"But, thank you, dear," Sae smiled, taking the bouquet from her husband. She and Hojo then kissed.
"I made sure to reserve a seat for two."
"Perfect," Sae smiled.
As the couple walked out of the public building, they came across two women waiting in their path. The woman on the right has short neck-length black hair with fringe bangs hanging between her red-colored eyes. She came dressed in a long-sleeved dark red shirt, black pants, and black high-heels.
On the left, the other woman has back-length light brown hair and cream skin. A thick strand of hair is seen sticking out the right side of her head. She is seen adjusting a pair of glasses over the bridge of her nose. She has on a white lab coat, black pants, and beige dress shoes.
Sae and Hojo immediately recognized the two ladies.
"Karen? Aurora? This is a surprise. I thought you two were still working?" Sae addressed the ladies.
"We're taking our break now. Thanks for asking," Aurora responded kindly.
"Shouldn't Mrs. SIU Director be handing out and working on new cases?" Karen eyed Sae with a sly grin.
"I finished the last of today's paperwork," Sae nonchalantly replied.
"Until you have to do it all over again first thing tomorrow, huh?" Karen nonchalantly said, waving her finger around in Sae's face.
Aurora chuckled while adjusting her glasses. "C'mon be nice, Karen."
Sae calmly smirked. "No worries. It's fine, Aurora."
"Me and Sae are about to head for dinner," Hojo addressed the two ladies.
"Aw, too bad we weren't invited. We would've loved to share some stories with you two," Aurora added.
"We would if we weren't busy tonight, Aurora. I hope you two enjoy your lovely outing together. Unfortunately, not all of us have that luxury of getting off periods, especially in my and Aurora's work fields."
"I know you two didn't come here for idle chit chat. Did something happen?" Sae suspiciously questioned the two ladies obstructing their path
Karen answered. "Oh, not me. Just letting you know my brother, Louis, already graduated from the Tokyo Institute of Technology. I told you that he was working on his engineering degree?"
"Oh yes, that's right. Send him my congratulations, Karen."
"Thanks, Sae. I'm so proud of him. Just as much as you're proud of your little sister Makoto."
Sae gave an ironic laugh. "Well as you know, Makoto is not little anymore. She's following in our father's footsteps."
"Of course, she's become an officer in his memory."
Aurora openly smiled. "I must say, that's a risky career path she's chosen."
Sae added. "Yes, it is. Is there anything else you two would like to say?"
"That's all I've got to tell you," Karen checked her cellphone for the time. "Oh, we've got to get going, Aurora! Our assistants can't work long without any supervision! We'll have to do lunch, dinner, or something another time to catch up! See you later!" She bolted off leaving the couple.
"Take care, you two! Enjoy dinner for us!" Aurora waved them off as she followed Karen out.
Hojo chuckled. "Those two are quite an oddball pair."
Sae sighed. "Well, that's Karen and Aurora. Sometimes I think Karen gets consumed with her work more than I do, which is already stressful enough."
"She could use some rest. So, are we ready?"
"Yes, let's not delay." With that, Sae and Hojo walked out of the building. On their way out the doors, they walked off as a couple passed by and watched them leave.
The couple is a pair of foreigners; one is a tall Caucasian man with baby blue eyes and light brown hair in a short buzz cut style and faded sides, making him look nearly bald. He is seen wearing a navy blue long-sleeved shirt, khaki pants, and dark brown shoes.
Beside him is a slightly taller young woman with reddish brown eyes and straight neck-length coffee brown hair. She has on a short-sleeved white t-shirt coupled with an army camo freestyle vest, dark gray pants, and purple sneakers.
"Hey, isn't that the prosecutor lady we've seen on the news, Marty? I think her name is Niijima?" The woman asked her partner.
"Yeah, Niijima Sae. That building is where the Public Prosecutors Office is located, Andrea," Marty pointed toward the Tokyo District Special Investigation Department in plain sight.
Placing her hands on her hips, Andrea gazed upon the building with intrigue. "Wow, incredible. Say, why don't we have a look inside?"
"We don't have time. We need to get going…" He was cut off as Andrea shoved her black digital watch, strapped on her left wrist, in his face.
"We can make time. C'mon, let's go!" She grabbed Marty's arm and led him toward the building, laughing along the way.
"Wait, hold on…!" He yelled out to stop her to no avail.
Skyler's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/6:30 PM (JST)
Since their encounter, Skyler and Hifumi started frequently seeing each other. The previous connection Hifumi had with Sion became reignited. With Hifumi nearly finishing her third year, she was about to enter her final year of university next year. During her break time from studying, she spent it with Skyler.
Outside on Skyler's apartment balcony, they got caught up in a deep conversation.
"I can't believe you're a year away from graduation?" Skyler asked Hifumi.
"Yes, that's correct."
"We're in the same boat then. I graduate next year, too, if I study hard."
"I'm already a college graduate."
The young woman genuinely replied with an affectionate smile. "It looks like both of us have to buckle down and study. We can have study sessions in your new place."
Skyler added with a knowing smirk. "I like the sound of that if it means you coming over often, Hifumi. Since my friends have been all over the place, it'll be good to have some company at my place."
"No problem. I'm glad I can help out cleaning your apartment."
"Sorry if I asked you to put in some time. You probably had other things you wanted to do?"
"It's not a problem. I had no other plans besides playing Shogi and studying for exams."
Skyler turned to Hifumi. "You're going to have to show me some Shogi."
"Sure, next time I'll bring my board and pieces. I'd be happy to teach you. Every person I've taught has been winners."
"Then, I know I'll learn a lot from you, Hifumi."
Just then, Skyler and Hifumi leaned over as if they're about to kiss. It had only been a few days since they first met, but it was the 'Sion' in Skyler that drew Hifumi toward him. Skyler somehow sensed a familiarity being near the Shogi woman. Hifumi and Skyler held each other's hands.
Unbeknownst to Skyler and Hifumi, Io barely materialized and appeared next to Hifumi. She watched the two bond and turned toward the sun starting to set. She quickly vanished and entered Hifumi without the Shogi woman's knowledge.
"I do wonder how your friends are doing."
"I'm sure they're fine, Hifumi."
Roppongi (六本木)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/October 2, 2020 (2020年10月2日)/3:30 PM (JST)
Four middle school students had gotten out of Roppongi Junior High School and walked together toward their homes. These two boys and two girls walked home together on a daily routine, which helped strengthen their friendship.
The two boys first met as kids during their first year of middle school. Their names are Oda Shinya and Nicola Karnstein. The latter is Mia's younger brother.
Shinya, like Nicola, wore a standard middle school uniform, consisting of a black buttoned uniform shirt with a standing collar, straight-legged black pants, and sneakers.
Nicola had shoulder-length blonde hair and clear blue eyes. Unlike Shinya's hairstyle, he had two thick forehead bangs intertwined, hanging over his face and between his eyes. Mia's 'little brother' couldn't even possibly be called 'little' anymore as the teenager had sprouted to 5'7 feet tall from his previous 4'11. Despite his physical growth, he retained his feminine boy facial features.
One of the two girls, Hanami Reiko, is much shorter, being 4'11. She felt like a child beside her two friends. She has shoulder-length black hair and amber eyes. She wore a dark red bow at the end of a twisted braid. She wore her school's girl uniform, a short-sleeved blouse with a black sailor-style collar and a black pleated skirt. She wore a red ribbon tied at the front and laced through a loop on her blouse. Her legwear consisted of knee-length white socks and brown loafers.
Reiko was born in Nagoya before she and her family moved to Tokyo just in time to start middle school. She had hardly anyone to interact with until she started hanging with Shinya and Nicola. Since then, they had been close friends. Although in the past year, Shinya and Reiko got more close in their relationship. Reiko became Shinya's girlfriend.
The other, Li-Ming Xiuying, is the smallest of the four and has on a similar girl's uniform as Reiko. She is a Chinese girl with neck-length brown hair placed in double buns. On the right side of her hair is a pink flower hairpin. While being a close friend to these three, she and Nicola have gotten closely acquainted.
"So, who's up for some arcade time?" Shinya asked his three friends, his voice changed through hitting puberty recently.
"Over at Gigolo in Akihabara?" Reiko queried.
"Well yeah. That's one of our usual hang out places. Why did you have something else in mind?"
"No, of course not, Shinya."
Nicola added with a composed smile. "Sure, I'm up for it. Did you make sure to bring your cap, Shinya?" His voice also changed following puberty.
"Hell yeah, I did!" Shinya opened his backpack and pulled out his favorite red cap that read "GET SMOKED" on the front in yellow. He put it on. "Some players are getting smoked today!"
Reiko giggled. "You're so silly, Shinya."
"Ugh, you brought that silly hat?" Li-Ming chuckled.
"Hey, don't make fun of that cap, Li-Ming," scoffed Shinya. "Alright, we're off to Gigolo, guys!"
"Let's just make sure we're all at our homes early," Nicola reminded them.
"Yeah, I promised my mom I'd be home early to help her cook," Li Ming said
"Yeah, yeah, I know."
Nicola chuckled modestly. "And you know how Mia gets if I'm not home before 6:00."
"Dude, you're taller than your sister."
"You've seen how scary she gets, Shinya. She's my sister and legal guardian."
Shinya shuddered. "Yeah, true. For someone small, she can scare tall guys like us."
Reiko sighed. "C'mon, Nicola's sister isn't bad."
Li-Ming concurred with her friend. "Yeah, she's cool!"
"Because she likes you two for being the responsible ones."
"I'd be responsible, too, if you didn't make me lose track of time," chuckled Nicola.
"Oh, so it's my fault, man?!"
Leaning herself on Nicola, Li-Ming giggled. "Oh, never mind him, Nicola. Shinya's never been great with time."
"You said it, Li-Ming. We're already losing track of time now. Let's get on the train to Akihabara," Reiko suggested. "Did we make sure to bring money?"
The teenage boys nodded. With that, the preteens arrived at Roppongi Station (六本木駅) and took the routes that brought them to Akihabara.
Odaiba Seaside Park (お台場海岸公園)/Odaiba (お台場)/4:30 PM (JST)
Yakumo had the day off from his duties, giving him time to invite his girlfriend. During his time in the Japan Self-Defense Forces, he met a woman named Emily Su. Shortly after getting acquainted with each other, Yakumo and Emily started dating.
Yakumo and Emily stood on the coast as they faced the Rainbow Bridge's direction.
Emily was a modest-sized woman with neck-length dark brown hair and amber eyes. She wore a sleeveless green shirt, beige pants, and tennis shoes. Her other choice of accessories consisted of a necklace and a blue beret cap.
"I'm glad you got off just so we can see this scenery," Emily said.
"It's not often I get days off during the week. I'm glad you like it," Yakumo replied, breathing in the warm and moist air from the water.
"This is relaxing," Emily smiled, putting an arm over Yakumo's left arm.
"Maybe we should come here to meditate."
"That'd be great."
Yakumo and Emily started walking across the coast to enjoy their outing together.
Shujin Academy (秀尽学園高校)/5:00 PM (JST)
"And this is where I went to high school. I had a lot of good and bad memories here," Ryuji showed Miyako the school he graduated from four years ago.
"This is Shujin Academy? Wow, it's peace looking," Miyako observed Shujin and assessed it with a watchful gaze. "Though, it looks and feels pretty restricting to me."
"Yeah, well, it's a prep school and when I went there, rules were dead ass strict. Dunno how Shujin is like nowadays," Ryuji said.
"I'm glad I went to school that wasn't so restricting."
"Well, our high school days are behind us."
"And amen to that! Now we can loosen up all we want!" Miyako hollered, grabbing Ryuji's arm. "C'mon, show me around your ol' hangout spots. Where did ya like going?"
"Well, there's a track where I still train at?"
"Show me! And maybe take me to that café that sells coffee and curry. Kinda a weird combination, but whatever it sounds inviting. And maybe we can check out that arcade in Akihabara y'all used to hang out at."
"Sure, but c'mon one place at a time, babe."
Miyako quickly nodded. "Sure, ok!"
Ryuji scratched the bridge of his nose. "Right, first stop the track."
Miyako watched Ryuji racing around the track. She took photos and videos of her boyfriend from her phone. Miyako tried running a lap with Ryuji but was fatigued halfway through the track.
"You need to get in shape, Miyako!"
"Haha, you know a good place to run and workout?"
"Yeah."
"Then, let's stop there, too."
Ryuji chuckled. "For real?! Uh, I mean… sure, I can get you a free guest pass since I'm a gym member!"
"I'm so going to get my stamina up so I can beat ya in a race, Ryuji!"
"Yeah sure, give it all you've got!"
Giggling, Miyako poked Ryuji's chest. "Challenge accepted." She and Ryuji then lip locked and kissed.
Skyler's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/5:15 PM (JST)
During their escapades, Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta managed to run into Hifumi and Skyler. When the three got a good look at Skyler, they saw him like a spitting image of their Revenant friend Sion. To calm the Gamblers down, Hifumi reminded them that Skyler does not know anything related to Sion.
"So, you three are Hifumi's friends?" Skyler asked the three Gamblers.
Before the Gamblers can answer, Hifumi nodded knowingly to them. They immediately picked up on this being reminded that this wasn't the same Sion they knew.
"Yes, we are acquainted with our dear friend Hifumi! Pleased to meet you, Skyler Jones! I'm Jabami Yumeko!" The Compulsive Gambler energetically introduced herself to him.
"Hello, I'm Suzui Ryōta."
"Nice to meet you, Skyler. I'm Saotome Mary," the blonde woman bowed.
"So, are you two an item now?" Ryōta asked Skyler.
"Well, I just moved here and we just happened to see each other. Hifumi showed me around and helped me move into my apartment here. She's just a friend for now."
Upon hearing this, Mary side rolled her eyes and snickered. "Friend? We'll see how long that lasts." She quietly murmured so much so no one could hear her sardonic remark.
Yumeko gave a sly smirk. "Uh-huh." She internally thought. Hehe, I know better. You two will be sleeping together before you know it!
"So, have you been in contact with Ren and the others?" Hifumi asked Yumeko.
"Sorta? We came into town to meet with them, but no luck. Looks like they've been busy lately."
"So, we've been mostly sightseeing, which wouldn't be bad if that was our original intention," Mary grumbled over Yumeko's lack of communication with the Thieves. "Thankfully we've been staying at one of my relatives' place."
"Don't worry, we'll find them!" Yumeko tried reassuring her irked friend.
"If you need help, I can accommodate you?" Hifumi offered.
"Oh, thank you! You're a lifesaver!" Yumeko squeed.
"And this would be a great opportunity for you to meet my other friends, Skyler."
"Funny you mention them because my friends happen to know some of your friends, Hifumi," Skyler said.
"That works out even better. Alright, I'm going to see if Ren's number still works," Hifumi took out her cell and put in Ren's number. "Hello, Ren? Yes, it's Hifumi."
"What's going on, Hifumi? How's everything?"
"Everything's fine. Listen, do you remember I said I have a surprise for you and the others?"
"Yeah? What about it?"
"Well, I think it's time I show you that surprise. That and Yumeko's group are in town."
"That's great. When do you want to meet with us?"
Hifumi briefly scanned Skyler, Yumeko, Mary, and Ryōta. "How does Sunday the 4th sound? We can meet at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden."
"That sounds like a plan. I'll ask the others and see what they think."
"Great, we'll be looking forward to it. Tell Ann I said hi."
"I will. We'll see you there with the others, Hifumi."
"Take care," Hifumi turned off her cell. "We're all set."
"Awesome, thanks, Hifumi!" Yumeko replied giddily.
"This is great. We'll finally get to meet the Thieves again!" Ryōta said.
"Heck yeah! We will!" Mary added excitedly.
"Just temper your expectations, you three. They want to live out normal lives as we do now. We've done our part to help them," Hifumi reminded them about adjusting to their regular livelihoods and moving away from vigilante activities.
"Probably for the best, but I still look forward to meeting them," Skyler added. "And since we have guests here, why don't we go out and get something to eat? It'll be my treat."
"Yeah, we're starving!" Yumeko shouted with gleaming eyes.
"Ok, let's get going. We have much to catch up on," Hifumi chuckled.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑)/Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/October 4, 2020 (2020年10月4日)/11:30 AM (JST)
That late-morning, Hifumi took Skyler, Yumeko, Ryōta, and Mary to see the Phantom Thieves. Skyler's friends were also there with the Thieves. Sumire and Eugene were also there to meet the Thieves and Skyler's group.
For Skyler, this was his first overall meeting with the Thieves. Sion had known them before, but not Skyler. As far as Skyler was concerned, he doesn't know Ren and company. However, as Skyler and his group were introduced to the Thieves, the Thieves speculated if this was the result of Shin-Io's reality-warping powers. Ren questioned whether they're just duplicates of Sion and the cognitive Revenants they met.
"You're Amamiya Ren?" Skyler asked as Hifumi introduced him to the former Joker.
"Yeah, and you're Skyler?"
"Skyler Jones. I just moved back here and met Hifumi. She told me about you."
"Really? How much?" Ren asked with his attention on Hifumi.
"I know you were one of the Phantom Thieves. Relax your secrets are safe with me," Skyler reassured Ren.
As Ren turned and faced Skyler, he looked at him as if he had just seen a ghost. He couldn't believe he was seeing someone who looked identical to Sion yet has no recollections of the being that Revenant. He wondered if Shin-Io's rewriting of history revived Sion with a new identity but with no memories of being the late-Revenant, his past interactions with the Thieves, and his bond with Hifumi.
"Your friend has been so kind and helped me settle in my new place," Skyler said, holding the Shogi woman's hand.
"I'm glad to hear that. Not only can you depend on Hifumi, now you have us as friends," Ren replied kindly, genuinely happy to see Hifumi and 'Sion' together again. He looked behind him as his wife, Ann, approached him. "Ann, this is Hifumi's friend Skyler Jones."
Upon seeing Skyler, Ann almost gasped. Ren helped calm his wife and smiled at her. Ann nodded and faced Skyler.
"Sorry, you just looked like someone I knew and you surprised me," Ann apologized for almost freaking out in front of Skyler.
"It's ok. So, you two are married?" Skyler asked, noticing the couple's rings.
"Yeah, we recently got married," the former Panther said, lovingly folding an arm over Ren's arm.
"It was a wonderful wedding," Hifumi commented on being present for Ren and Ann's event. "I think you would've enjoyed being there, Skyler."
"Maybe I would."
Ren smiled as he meticulously scanned Skyler. I know that's not you Sion and this is someone else in your place thanks to Shin-Io's power. Needless to say, I'm glad to see your face again. With his guard down, he felt someone tap him on his left shoulder, causing him to spin around and meet Sumire's friendly gaze.
"Senpai, you're looking well. How is married life between you and Ann?"
"It's working out better than we thought. Thanks for asking, Sumire," Ren kindly replied as Sumire called over Eugene. As he pivoted and faced Eugene, the men exchanged serious glares and nodded.
"Let me introduce you to my boyfriend, senpai," Sumire said.
"So, this is him?" Ren addressed Eugene.
"Hello, Ren. Sumire's told me so much about you. I'm Eugene Lambert," the blonde-haired man smiled as he and Ren shook hands.
"Nice to finally meet you." Just then, Sumire got in between Ren and Eugene, placing her hands over theirs.
"I'm glad you two get to finally meet. That's a big weight lifted off my shoulders," heavily sighed Sumire.
"Hey, who is this?" Ann called out as she approached her husband, who introduced her to Eugene.
"So, you're Ren's wife? Congratulations on your recent marriage," Eugene said.
"Oh, thank you! Yeah, Ren and I are happily engaged now! Nothing could go wrong from this point forward!" Ann said, lovingly folding her arm around Ren's left arm, eliciting an audible chuckle from him.
"Why don't we introduce you to Ren and Ann's friends, Eugene?" Sumire asked her boyfriend, who nodded accordingly.
"Sure, I'd be happy to."
As soon as Ren, Ann, Sumire, and Eugene approached Skyler and Hifumi, Sumire introduced her boyfriend to them. Then, they headed over to greet Skyler's friends.
"So, I understand some of your friends know mine," Skyler noticed Louis conversing with Makoto and Haru.
In another area in the garden, Louis interacted with Makoto and Haru.
"Ladies, you're both looking fine on this beautiful day," Louis elegantly tried winning the two women with his irresistible charms.
"Ahem, really? Did you call us fine? Yeah, sure we're both fine. We don't need you using your bad boy charms to make us go heads over heels for you." Makoto replied in a playfully sardonic tone.
"Oooh, ow. Your scathing remarks wound me, Mako-chan," Louis chuckled.
Haru cleared her throat. "By the way, congratulations on graduating. I'm sure your sister must be proud of you."
"Of course, now I'm set to enter the professional world like you two. Please do wish me luck on my endeavors."
Makoto smirked coolly. "Yeah, sure. Let's all do well in our professions."
"And I know your sister, Sae-san, is deeply proud of you, Mako-chan. And I think she'd want us to be close friends much like she and my sister are now." Louis said. "Anyway, may I offer you two to walk with me?"
Before Makoto could retort, Haru whispered to her friend's ear. Makoto relaxed her stance and nodded. They walked along with Louis around the garden scenery. As they scoured the beautiful gardens, the two Thieves cautiously observed Louis and his friends. They were reminded of the Revenant cognitions that helped them fight Datenshi. Despite having known Louis and his friends for the past few months, they wondered how Louis and his friends appeared in their world, leading Makoto to suspect that Shin-Io's powers played a critical role in their existence.
Skyler continued scanning the garden. He saw Yakumo and Emily talking with Yusuke and Futaba. Ryuji and Miyako are seen talking to Mia, Yumeko, Ryōta, and Mary.
As Skyler and Hifumi prepared to explore the garden, they were stopped by two individuals, who arrived on time. Glancing over his shoulder, a collective smirk smeared across the young man's face.
"So, you came, Jack," Skyler addressed the man standing in front of him.
"Skyler Jones, you son of a bitch," a voice belonging to a man addressed him casually despite his crude dialogue.
"Skyler? Who is this man?" Hifumi asked her boyfriend, who stepped right up and extended his fist out to the man.
Standing in front of Skyler and Hifumi is a tall and slender man in full body black clothing. This man had a grisly scar carved over his left eye. He has short white hair; the back of his hair was wild and disheveled. Locks of longer hair covered his right eye. His left eye had an intense look. Despite being fully clothed in dark clothing, his black dress shirt had an unopened spot revealing a white shirt.
As Jack met Skyler's gaze and looked down at his fist, he quickly gave Skyler a fist bump.
"Jack, you could be a little less unrefined in greeting Skyler," a woman calmly chimed into their interactions.
When Skyler and Hifumi looked past Jack, they saw a tall woman standing beside the dark-clothed man. In comparison to her partner, she is not quite as tall as Jack. She has neck-length white hair, although her hair appeared more silver from a glance. She is seen wearing a long-sleeved white shirt, black jeans, and coffee brown boots.
"Hey, Eva," Skyler formally addressed the woman.
"You're looking well, Skyler," Eva smiled.
"Say, who's your friend here?" Jack glanced over toward Hifumi, who bowed politely.
"Hello, I'm Togo Hifumi."
"I'm Jack Rutherford."
"And I'm Eva Roux."
After introducing herself, Hifumi placed a hand over her chest and smiled. "I've heard Skyler mention you two a few times."
"Oh yeah? What did Skyler tell you about us?" Jack coyly smirked, looking over to Skyler.
"Oh, that you two used to be school rivals and often butted heads," Mia chimed in as she and Yakumo walked over and confronted Jack and Eva. "Oh, and how could we forget the hostility that Yakumo and I used to have for you two?"
Ignoring Emily's plea, Yakumo initiated a confrontation with Jack, drawing attention from the others. Surveying the confused looks from the Thieves and Gamblers, Jack and Eva almost seemed out of place having been put on the spot for their apparent past issues with Skyler and his friends.
"C'mon, guys. That's all in the past. Let's put it behind us," Louis interjected, stepping in between Jack and Yakumo.
"What's the deal here?" Ren asked Louis.
"Let's just say our school days were rough," Louis said as he pointed toward Skyler and Jack. "These especially were intense rivals and got into fights."
"Yeah, I clearly remember us beating the hell out of each other," Skyler grinned sadistically, reminiscing every fight they've been involved in.
"And who knew we made good brawling partners," Jack added.
Eva nodded. "How can I forget?"
Mia quickly asserted. "And I remember when I used to call you Jack the Jackass!"
Yakumo chuckled. "Ah, that name takes me back."
Hearing that old insult being spouted his way, Jack rolled his eyes and grunted. "It wasn't cute then and it's not clever now. That just hurts."
"It fits you well!" Mia retorted, blowing a raspberry at the man.
"Ok, guys. Enough, it's all in the past!" Louis beckoned order among his peers and Jack.
"Right, sorry we got carried away," Yakumo apologetically replied.
"So, you guys were pretty hostile with each other?" Makoto asked Louis's friends.
"Well, more or less, but Jack and I earned each other's respects after a few fights," Skyler revealed his past relations with Jack. "We've mellowed out since then. Now, we're just friendly rivals and good friends."
"Well, some of us at least," Jack coolly remarked while eyeing Mia and Yakumo standing behind him.
"Hey, look sorry for opening up old wounds," Yakumo apologized to Jack, who nodded and accepted.
"Yeah, same. Some things you just don't forget but I'm willing to forgive you for making fun of me for my size," Mia said.
"You're forgiven," Eva added.
Upon seeing an impending conflict being resolved, Hifumi sighed with relief. "I'm glad to hear this. I wish for us to get along and enjoy our today together. Regardless of your past, I'm glad to meet all of Skyler's friends."
"Everyone, I apologize for causing a scene. Let's hope we'll become better acquainted," Jack openly addressed everyone. Glancing over to Ren and Ann, he approached and introduced himself. "I see, you're that wedded couple I heard from Skyler. I send my congratulations."
"Thanks," Ann replied, attempting to smile as she and Ren interacted with him and Eva.
Meanwhile, the other Thieves and the Gamblers meticulously observed Jack and Eva.
"Can you believe those two were cognitions that helped us a few months ago and here they are in the flesh," Mary whispered to her colleagues.
"Yeah, aren't they nice?" Yumeko nodded.
"Yeah, and almost starting shit with Skyler's friends," Ryuji scoffed.
"They're here only because of Shin-Io yet they appear to be acquainted as if they've always lived in this world," Yusuke muttered while keenly observing Skyler and his friends.
"Probably thanks to Shin-Io's reality shifting mojo," Futaba deduced. "Hifumi's got some serious goddess powers she's holding back."
"Last I heard, she hasn't been able to manifest her powers at all since our fight with Datenshi," a voice belonging to Morgana chimed in.
Upon recognizing the cat's voice, the Thieves and Gamblers whipped around as Morgana rushed into the garden.
"MORGANA?!" The Thieves and the Gamblers yelled out in unison.
"Sorry for crashing the party late, but I was out on patrol! I came to see how Ren and Lady Ann are doing!" He raced past Makoto, Haru, and Louis. "Excuse me! Coming through!"
"Huh? A cat?" Louis was taken aback.
"Morgana, you're here?" Makoto blinked in shock.
Suddenly, Morgana surprised Mia and hopped over next to her.
"Well, look who decided to show up," Ann remarked once she spotted the cat sitting next to Mia.
"And here Morgana said he had other things to do, but not surprised he's here," Ren chuckled, but was genuinely pleased to see the cat with them.
"Yes, and it seems Morgana has taken a liking to your friend, Skyler," Hifumi noticed Mia petting Morgana's soft black fur and stroking his white-furred maw.
"I think it'd be nice if Mia could take Morgana in. We've been so busy with work we've hardly had time to spend with Morgana. What do you think, Ren?" Ann asked him.
"Maybe, but that's up to Morgana to decide," Ren said.
Skyler added. "Mia is good with animals. She could use some company at home. Her brother's spending more time with his friends at school and during leisure hours."
Hifumi nodded. "I can concur with that."
"I don't disagree, but that's up to Morgana to decide what he wants to do," stated Ren.
"Well, I wish Eugene and I could let Morgana stay in our place but they don't allow housepets except for aquarium pets," Sumire sadly sighed, causing Morgana's face to twitch with annoyance.
"I'm not just a housepet!" Morgana bemoaned still being considered a simple animal.
"Don't worry, Morgana. We'll let you know when we're both at home from our shifts. We just don't want you to stay cooped up at home alone," Ren said, kneeling to pet Morgana's head.
"Thanks, Ren," Morgana said.
"There, you'll always have a place with us, Morgana. Anyway, let's go and explore the gardens! They're so pretty!" Ann suggested to her husband and their friends.
"I agree. It'll help take our minds off the whole week we've been through," Hifumi said, taking Skyler's hand.
"Sure, this place seems soothing. A walk would be nice," Skyler concurred with the idea.
With that, the couples explored Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. As they walked around, all of their concerns from the past week were rinsed away by the relaxing vibes from their environment.
Now having met the Thieves, Skyler knew he was in good company with people he can depend on. His friends already became acquainted with the Thieves. Now, he could become acquainted with them just like Sion did.
Skyler's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/7:20 PM (JST)
"I had a good time, Hifumi."
"Me, too, Skyler. Want me to check in with you tomorrow?"
Staring into each other's eyes, Skyler and Hifumi held hands while refusing to let the other go.
"I was wondering, Hifumi…"
"Yes?"
"Have… have you considered moving in with me?"
Hifumi stayed quiet, unsure how to respond to this question.
"It's up to you, Hifumi. You can take as much time to think about it. I'm just throwing it out there."
"Do you feel lonely at your place?"
"No…" Skyler muttered, veering away a bit and hiding his expression.
However, Hifumi could read him like an open book. She smiled. "I'll consider it, Skyler."
"Really?"
With that, Hifumi leaned on her tippy toes and kissed Skyler's lips. Skyler quickly returned the favor and kissed her. Hifumi then turned around with a smile and waved to Skyler.
"Goodnight, Skyler."
"Yeah, you, too," Skyler replied with a smirk. "Wow, so that's a yes then?"
Amamiya-Takamaki Residence (奄美・高崎 レジデンス)/Shibuya, Tokyo (渋谷区, 東京)/December 4, 2020 (2020年12月4日)/6:05 PM (JST)
While holding hands outside on their balcony, Ren and Ann faced the sun setting down in the distance.
"I wish this marriage between us can last forever," Ann softly muttered near her husband.
"Me, too, Ann," Ren added during the sun setting. "I hope it lasts."
Skyler and Hifumi's Apartment/Hamamatsuchō (浜松町)/Minato, Tokyo (港区, 東京)/9:30 PM (JST)
Having moved in over a month ago, Hifumi settled in Skyler's place just fine. Her presence was enough to alleviate Skyler's solitude. Their relationship blossomed since Skyler moved back in late-September.
Skyler and Hifumi were outside on their balcony, gazing toward each other and holding hands.
"Hifumi, thank you."
"For?"
"For deciding to move in. You didn't have to."
"You're right I didn't have to. I wanted to." Hifumi lovingly whispered to the young man she longed to be with once again.
Suddenly, unbeknownst to the couple, Io came out of Hifumi and materialized in an ethereal form. Her yellow eyes stared out into the distance and felt something amiss.
"It's coming. It's here."
In a far distance away from Hifumi and Skyler's apartment, something began to stir in the darkness within the city dwellings. Something started to seep and stir from out of some cracks. It is a black gooey material, which seemed to have a life of its own coupled with malignant intentions.
A blue butterfly, covered in a steel blue hue, hovered near the black puddle, investigating its surroundings. It came as a harbinger for an impending event yet to come.
Suddenly, at that instance, a limb resembling a hand grabbed and pulled the butterfly. Unable to break loose and falling victim to its hold, the butterfly was dragged and swallowed into the black puddle, vanishing out of view. Then, a bright red light shrouded it as it grew, working its way through the physical world's network.
It is finally here.
Chapter Soundtrack
It's So Wonderful (Final Remix) - The World Ends With You: Final Remix - Ren's monologue.
Persona 5 OST - Beneath the Mask - The Phantom Thieves' civilian lives.
Guilty Crown - Friends - Shinya and friends' scene.
Tokyo Daylight (Atlus Kozuka Remix) - Persona 5: Dancing Star Night - Ryuji and Miyako in Shujin Academy.
Persona 5 OST - Destinyland - The Gamblers explore Tokyo Disneyland.
Underground (Final Remix) - The World Ends With You: Final Remix - Hifumi and Skyler meet Yumeko and friends in their apartment.
Memory of the Lost (Happy) - Code Vein - Skyler and his friends meet Ren and the Phantom Thieves.
Persona 5 OST - Encounter - Ren/Ann and Skyler/Hifumi's moments.
Persona 5 OST - Desire - Dark, mysterious entity surfaces and swallows the butterfly. A sign of a bad omen.
A/N: With that, Book II is now officially underway and with a new book title. Vestiges and Vein are words often used in the Code Vein lore, which means this part of Akane no Mai will delve deeper and explore Skyler and his crew's backstories and ultimately their Revenant powers/natures. And the mystery of their existence in this dimension will unravel at some point, and determine whether these Revenants are who they appear to be and aren't cognitions.
Now that Code Vein is out and I've become familiar with that series, I can further expand on the lore and the characters while exploring new concepts and relationships in the Akane no Mai world.
The chapter kicks off with Ren's monologue from the previous events in Book I and we explore Hifumi's relationship with Skyler, the Phantom Thieves' adult lives as well as become acquainted with Skyler's friends and the other Code Vein characters, and being introduced to a host of new characters. Already the CV characters have met the Thieves and some of their confidants, including Shinya who is now aged up into a teen.
Outside of the Thieves, the 'Revenants', and the Gamblers, new OCs have been introduced in small doses, including Tori & Hiroshi, a few couples in Tokyo Disneyland and Sae's husband Hojo (a very lucky man, though no one should be envious considering… well just how scary Prosecutor Sae can be). Those partners and couples (Tori/Hiroshi, Lance/Cammy, Marty/Andrea, Huey/Samantha) will have roles through the course of AnM. So, keep an eye out for them. Reiko and Li-Ming are added as part of Shinya and Nicola's crew; with Shinya & Reiko and Nicola & Li-Ming being likely pairings.
Speaking of couples, could the Gambler trio start to develop affections beyond just friendship? We'll see how this develops. And starting with Book II, more Kakegurui characters will begin appearing.
And Sumire fans, fear not. Although Ren's taken by Ann, that doesn't mean Sumire should be left without a love interest. Say hi to Eugene Lambert.
Nioh/Nioh 2 characters will appear again soon as the conflicts start to arise.
Since Zenkichi was mentioned and there were already Persona 5 Strikers cameos in Book I, will the P5 Strikers characters appear? Patience. Wait and see, my friends.
Speaking of real life locations, I'll be using real life locations in place of some of the P5 ones. For instance, Destinyland will be Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea.
This was a calm chapter, but with the dark mysterious essence appearing, it's a sign of a bad omen for our heroes. The dark entity isn't wasting any time as it prepares to screw with the cast.
As always, leave a comment and review. See you in the next chapter!