Ace In The Hole

by eiranerys

Shido has barred the Shadow Operatives from action for two years. But when the Phantom Thieves appear, Mitsuru decides that they have to take action. Luckily, there's a certain former member Shido doesn't seem to be aware of: Ken Amada. But when Ken meets the Phantom Thieves in person, he can't help but agree with their goals. He can't help but befriend them. Phantom Thief!Ken AU.

38. 37: Let The Dice Fly High

Chapter 37

Let The Dice Fly High

---

Wednesday, November 16th, 2016

---

"Rise-chan, you haven't explained on why you want to stay in Tokyo for so long."

Rise just blinked at Inoue-san, allowing a sugary smile to come across her face. Inoue-san sometimes acted more of a father figure to her than her actual dad, but there was just no way that she could explain the real reason. Inoue-san would probably think that she had hit her head or something, anyhow.

"Tokyo is a big city, Inoue-san," Rise stated, letting herself pout for a moment. She let out a gusty sigh, placing a hand on her chest. "I have a few friends who will be in town at the end of the week. Is it a crime to want to catch up with them? And I haven't seen Chie-senpai in person since she graduated from Yasogami three years ago. This is an opportunity that won't come by often."

His brows remained creased, still somewhat bothered.

She tilted her head. "Is it really too much to ask?"

"W-Well... I have to admit that your launch into a proper pop star has been an even bigger success than we thought." Inoue-san heaved out a sigh, then he cracked a proud smile, before giving a small nod. "Alright, you have until the twentieth, and then it's back to work!"

"That's all I ask, Inoue-san!" Rise said cheerfully before playfully blowing him a kiss.

"You're too much sometimes, Rise-chan!" Inoue-san just laughed heartily, shaking his head; but his voice was full of warmth, not exasperation. "Sometimes I wonder how Narukami-kun deals with you."

"Aw, Senpai knows that he's the only one who has my heart!" Rise giggled before wiggling her fingers at Inoue-san. "But I'll see you soon, Inoue-san!"

The walk back to the apartment was shorter than Rise expected. She didn't stay there a whole lot, but it was her home away from Inaba.

She had barely flopped onto her bed, when her phone began to buzz.

Group Chat: The Investigation Team

[Chie-senpai]: Heyyy guys! Are you down for a group video chat?

[Naoto-kun]: What's the occasion?

[Chie-senpai]: I just thought it'd be nice, y'know?

[Chie-senpai]: It's been 4ever since we've been able to get together as a group!

Rise immediately typed out a reply saying yes. She beamed as her friends all agreed. She then grabbed her laptop, booting it up.

Chie-senpai started the call, and one by one, her friends appeared on the screen.

"Hey guys!" Chie-senpai said brightly.

Yu just closed his eyes but had a small smile on his lips.

"It's been a while since we've all been together," her boyfriend said.

"Yeah, sorry, we were prettyyyy close with a full out reunion in September." Yosuke-senpai just winced.

"YOSUKE YOU RUINED IT!" Teddie all but wailed out, pouting at his adoptive brother.

"Oh, shut it, Ted!" Yosuke-senpai retorted. "I wanted to come but school was kicking my ass! I'm not a genius like my partner here, dammit!"

"Yeah, Yosuke-senpai's got a point there," Kanji snorted out.

"Hey, are you calling me dumb?!" Yosuke-senpai protested.

"Jeez, we seriously going there already?" Chie-senpai shook her head, a small laugh escaping her. "Typical Yosuke. You haven't changed a single bit."

"Yeah, feeling the love, Chie," he huffed out with a roll of his eyes. "I'm guessing that you're kicking the asses of your male classmates. Just like in high school."

"Oh, shut it!" Chie-senpai practically growled out. "That only happened to you!"

"So, I have special treatment?" Yosuke-senpai winked at her, a lopsided smile on his face. "Good to know, Chie."

"Oh my, what is this…. is Yosuke trying to score?!" Teddie gasped out.

Both Yosuke-senpai and Chie-senpai's faces reddened.

"SHUT IT TEDDIE!" they shouted in unison.

Some of the group couldn't help but chuckle at their expense. Yukiko-senpai however scowled.

"When are we going to drop this scoring business?!" she demanded.

Rise never did understand why the "scoring" comments that was a running gag in their group always seemed to upset Yukiko-senpai. There was clearly a story there but she forbidden anyone to elaborate. Rise suspected it was embarrassing and probably had something to do with her senpai's shadow.

"Probably... never?" Yu offered.

Despite Yukiko-senpai having a fire-based Persona, she had one icy cold stare. One that she directed at Yu.

Naoto cleared her throat. "So anyways... when will you get to Tokyo, Chie-senpai?"

"Oh yeah!" Rise perked up at that, giving Chie-senpai a big smile. "I can't wait to see you, Chie-senpai!"

Chie-senpai nodded vigorously.

"Me too! So, Master is gonna take a train. Mitsuru-san is providing a car so we'll drive to Tokyo together. He'll drop me off at Rise-chan's place, and he'll stay at Shinjiro-san and Ken-kun's place." She blinked before scratching her cheek. "Er—it's Mitsuru-san's place really, isn't it?"

Yu flicked his hand before shaking his head.

"Semantics... not really important." His expression grew solemn, a small frown coming across his face. "It's really happening."

"Yeah, no pressure..." Kanji muttered out, frowning. "That Amamiya dude seems like a good kid. He doesn't deserve to get killed cause he's an obstacle to that asshole politician."

"Ugh! I wish I could sentence Shido to several kicks in the face!" Chie-senpai huffed.

Yukiko-senpai narrowed her eyes. "I think he deserves one of your famous galactic punts, after what he's put Mitsuru-san and everyone else through."

"You know you can't," Naoto chided. "For one thing that would be assaulting a politician. But more importantly, there's a reason why the Phantom Thieves came up with this plan to begin with. They need Shido off their tails."

"Is Shinjiro-san joining you?" Yukiko-senpai asked.

Rise shook her head. "He said that he'll be there during the operation, but mostly to make sure nobody gets too close while I'm guiding Chie-senpai and Akihiko-san."

"It's kinda weird since Gakky had this idea in the first place!" Teddie chimed in.

"He could not be participating at all," Yu stated with a shrug.

"We will need to figure out how to slip into the ranks though." Chie wrapped an arm around her torso, rubbing it with her free hand. "And that's not even the hardest part."

"Hey, what happened to your endless optimism?" Yosuke-senpai huffed, a stern look on his face. "You'll kick ass, just like usual, Chie."

Then he winked.

"Don't think... feel, remember?"

Chie-senpai scoffed, rolling her eyes.

"Well in this situation, I do need to think a bit." Then a tiny smile crept onto her face. "But... thanks, Yosuke."

Rise had to fight the smile creeping onto her face. She had always assumed that there had been a spark between her two senpai, but nothing really came out of it. But maybe they would just be slow about it... like a certain couple of her friends.

"Oooh, I can feel the love tonight!" Teddie teased.

Then they both reddened again before yelling in unison, "TEDDIE!"

"Anyways... moving on..." Yu sighed as he scratched his left cheek.

"You know—I'm surprised that Fuuka-san isn't coming as well. Didn't the Shadow Operatives talk about how she could teleport them out of Tartarus with her powers?" Yukiko-senpai inquired.

Rise wore a crooked frown on her face.

"Fuuka-chan told me that Shinjiro-san said that it'd be better for her to stay on Port Island until this whole thing blows over." She scowled. "I'm going to have words with him, you know. He had two chances to propose to Fuuka-chan but nooo, he's dragging his feet!"

Yu just chuckled, a smirk coming across his face. "Take it easy on him, Rise."

"We'll see." The singer glowered.

"Maybe I should warn him," Kanji snorted out.

"But that aside—" Yosuke-senpai interjected. "Ken's showing you this... Mentos, yeah? In case you need your Personas."

"Mementos, Yosuke-senpai." Naoto corrected.

"Eh, close enough." He shrugged.

Chie-senpai rolled her eyes at Yosuke-senpai.

"But yeah, that's the plan," the tomboy said, then she tilted her head as she continued, "But I've gotta say, I'm pretty curious to see how it'll look. According to Ken-kun, it's got its similarities to Tartarus. And we never got to get a look at Tartarus, so I think that'll be cool."

"I'm more curious about Ken-kun's costume," Rise giggled out, pressing a hand to her cheek. "He acted so embarrassed. It was just adorable."

"Don't torment him too much, Rise-chan," Yukiko-senpai said lightly.

"It's not my fault that he embarrasses more easily than Kanji," the singer teased.

"H-Hey, what's that supposed to mean?!" Kanji sputtered out, his cheeks slightly flushed.

Rise stuck out her tongue.

"Is an impersonation needed?" she asked innocently.

Kanji scowled at her. "Ugh—shuddup, Rise!"

"Anymore chaos you plan on unleashing, Rise-chan?" Chie-senpai rolled her eyes again.

"Well..." Rise smiled slyly. "I may have promised Minako-san some pictures of Makoto-chan. Minako-san's very curious about her."

"Poor Ken-kun." Yukiko-senpai giggled.

"Sheesh, you're probably gonna scare the poor girl off at that rate," Yosuke-senpai snorted.

"And before KenKen can score!" Teddie shook his head. "That's just mean, Rise-chan."

"Teddie…" Yukiko-senpai growled out.

"Enough, enough," Yu snickered, holding up placating hands. "Remember that Yukiko can easily get her hands on you, Teddie."

"But you'll protect me, won't you, Sensei?!" Teddie whined.

"Depends on how angry Yukiko is..." Yu quipped, only for his expression to grow serious. "But you'll be careful, won't you? This isn't a game."

Yukiko-senpai nodded. "Mm-hm. There is a reason why we've steered clear of Tokyo for these past couple years. Even Naoto-kun!"

Naoto sighed as she crossed her arms. "Not that they really want me to solve their cases. They have Goro Akechi."

"Yukiko, Yu-kun..." Chie-senpai said softly, before her expression grew serious as well. "Yeah, of course we'll be careful!"

"Don't you worry, Yu-senpai!" Rise nodded. "We won't get caught."

Yosuke-senpai cleared his throat, grabbing the group's attention.

"C'mon, guys, cheer up! It's been a while since we've been able to talk in a group like this. Let's not get down 'bout this," he said.

"Wow, that was actually pretty smart of you, Yosuke," Chie-senpai said lightly, her eyes twinkling.

"HEY!" He looked indignant, then coughed awkwardly. "So, what's going on in Inaba?"

"Oh! Me! Me!" Teddie cried out; and without waiting for the go ahead, he blurted out, "Nana-chan has a crush!"

"WHAT?!" Yu blurted out.

"Aw, Senpai, you know this isn't the first time," Rise giggled. "First you, then Ken-kun."

"Don't remind me..." Yu grumbled out.

But with that, their conversation turned much more light-hearted. Rise couldn't help but feel happy. She would forever treasure the year she spent in Inaba. It had brought her so many dear friends. But they had to return to their lives, and end the call.

Rise closed the laptop before she concentrated. She held out her palm. A tarot card flickered to life, surrounding by blue flames. She closed her hand over it.

They had spent two years, wringing their hands, as Shido continued to wreak havoc for his power grab. This was their chance to change this.

They couldn't fail. They had to ensure Ren's survival.

---

"I want to tell everyone about the reinforcements," Amada stated, much to Mitsuru's surprise.

"Are you sure about this, Amada?" she asked.

Amada nodded firmly. "I am. It just doesn't feel right to hide it. I don't want any secrets."

Mitsuru pursed her lips. Amada did pose a good point. She had hidden the truth from her friends once. And that had been such a mistake. This may be to ensure the Phantom Thieves' protection but now that she thought about it...it wouldn't do to hide this.

"Very well Amada," she conceded with a small nod, "I admit that you pose a good point. You have my permission. When Akihiko and Satonaka arrive to Tokyo tomorrow, you should call a meeting so they can meet Akihiko and Satonaka. But are all the preparations complete?"

"Practically... Makoto made the fake treasure and she's planted it. We're just counting down the last few days until we send the calling card. That'll be on the eighteenth. And then on the nineteenth, we'll confront Niijima-san's Shadow," Amada replied.

"Very soon then," Mitsuru commented. "And you'll be bringing Akihiko, Satonaka, and Kujikawa into the Metaverse tomorrow, I assume?"

Amada grimaced for some reason.

"That's the plan. Though there's a rule about us not entering the Metaverse alone, so everyone may insist on coming," he explained.

Mitsuru just raised an eyebrow at Amada's expression, but she decided not to comment on it. Then she cleared her throat.

"I'll let you go then." She smiled gently. "Best of luck, Amada."

Amada just flashed her a smile in return.

"Thanks, Mitsuru-san. I'll talk to you soon." He nodded.

She then checked her phone after the call ended. Minako had asked to have a group dinner before Akihiko departed for Tokyo tomorrow. They had agreed to meet at Akihiko and Minako's house at six. It was still a good hour before she could depart.

Mitsuru sighed, before turning back to her paperwork. Sometimes she swore that was all she did as the CEO. Her phone suddenly rang. She pulled it out, glancing at the screen. She raised an eyebrow at the caller ID.

"Hello, Nanjo-san," Mitsuru greeted, before lounging against her seat. "What can I do for you today?"

Kei Nanjo... the head of the Nanjo Group, which the Kirijo Group had branched off from. Shortly after she established the Shadow Operatives, they had crossed paths. He easily agreed to joining, even bringing in some of his old comrades into the fray.

Although she still remembered how put-out he was when she refused to give him the number one. Honestly, he could be so arrogant. He was a good man but he was definitely overstepping there.

"Kirijo." Nanjo's voice was cordial, but Mitsuru could detect a hint of irritation in his voice. "When you informed me that you were sending one of your inner circles to Tokyo, I was not aware that it was the child."

Mitsuru sighed, "It was to protect Amada. The less people who know, the less danger he'll be in."

Nanjo exhaled gustily. "I thought the point of the Shadow Operatives was so high school students would never have to step up to the plate."

"You think I have a choice in this?" Mitsuru didn't care if she sounded waspish. "You think I liked the idea of it? Especially after Amada decided to leave the organization until after he graduated from high school?"

"Then why—"

"We knew nothing about the Phantom Thieves, that's why!" Mitsuru snapped out. "The hints pointed to them being high school students. And...it ended up helping Amada in the long run."

"Just what are you talking about?" he questioned.

"It doesn't matter," Mitsuru said curtly.

Nanjo sighed once again. "And Shido?"

Mitsuru tapped her fingers impatiently against the desk. "We're in the process of eliminating the targets on the Phantom Thieves' backs."

"W-What?" Nanjo's voice was incredulous. "Are you planning on clarifying, Kirijo? What on earth are you planning? Shido has been threatening you for the last two years."

"It's not what I'm planning," Mitsuru replied coolly. "The Phantom Thieves have concocted a plan to pull the wool over Shido's eyes. If they can pull it off—"

"If? How could you let them be such a loose cannon?!" he interjected.

"They've been pushed into a corner," Mitsuru retorted.

She then took in a deep breath. Her nerves have been on edge for so long. She could feel her patience waning. But she didn't have to take it out on Nanjo.

"Promise me that you will not speak of this to another soul," she warned. "We must keep this under wraps."

After a long pause, the man let out a sigh.

"I promise. Now go on," Nanjo said coolly.

Mitsuru then proceeded to explain the plan.

"But Shinjiro was concerned so we came up with a backup plan. Insurance, so to speak."

"As he should. And Amada did not think of this before?"

"Do not speak of Amada like that, Nanjo," Mitsuru snapped. "He's perfectly capable. He's proven himself many times over. Without him, we would have been left in the dark about the Phantom Thieves. And in return, the Phantom Thieves would not know of Shido to begin with."

"I suppose I will have to trust your judgment, Kirijo. But still—I have a bad feeling about this. Masayoshi Shido is not someone to be trifled with. He will do anything to claw his way to power."

Nanjo let out a small grumble.

"That's why the extra forces are being sent," Mitsuru answered. "It is to ensure so that Amamiya isn't murdered in cold blood."

Nanjo let out a weary sigh.

"I hope this gamble pays off in the end. We cannot allow Shido to win."

---

Thursday, November 17th, 2016

---

"So... this is the place, Master?" Chie asked.

Akihiko nodded, looking up and down at the building in question.

"Yeah, this definitely looks like a place owned by Mitsuru."

Shinji wasn't kidding though. His best friend had griped so much about it, complaining that it was over the top. At the time, Akihiko had thought Shinji was just being his usual self when Mitsuru helped him out but this time...nope.

However, he should call his wife. He had promised that he would once he and Chie made it to Tokyo.

"Hey, can I call Mina before we go up?" Akihiko asked. "I want to let her know that we made it."

"Oh!" Chie's eyes widened for a moment before she nodded vigorously. "Yeah, go ahead!"

Akihiko flashed her a smile in thanks before pulling out his phone. Mina almost immediately picked up.

"Aki?"

"Hey." Akihiko smiled slightly. "Chie and I made it to Tokyo."

"Oh, that's great!" There was some shuffling in the background, "A bit later than the ETA you texted me at the last pit stop, though."

Akihiko grimaced before running a hand through his hair.

"Yeah, traffic in Tokyo is insane. I forgot how bad it was. Remember when we all came down for Fuuka's graduation?"

"It wasn't that long ago, Aki." Mina was quiet for a moment. "You'll be careful, won't you? If you're caught…"

Akihiko's grip on his phone tightened.

"I'll be careful, Mina. I promise," he said seriously.

"Sorry..." Mina's voice was suddenly watery. "T-The hormones, y'know?"

"Mina..."

A lump suddenly formed in Akihiko's throat. He then swallowed hard.

"I'll come back to you and our baby. Soon, I promise. But how are you feeling?" he inquired with concern.

"Tired!" Mina answered immediately. "I'm so ready to get this baby out of me. I'm as big as a whale and I still have a few weeks to go!"

"You still look beautiful," Akihiko said with a slight smile. "Aigis is taking good care of you, right? Making sure that the twins aren't giving you trouble?"

"Of course she is." Mina giggled. "Do you remember how she followed Minato's cue and threatened you as well?"

Akihiko suppressed the urge to cringe. "I try not to."

"Wuss."

He could practically see the playful smile on Mina's face.

"It's not my fault that Aigis is protective of your entire family," he retorted.

"CHIE-SENPAI!"

Akihiko nearly dropped his phone.

Rise came charging out of nowhere, all but tackling Chie with a tight hug.

"Oof!"

After the initial shock, Chie let out a joyful laugh. She hugged the other woman back.

"Hey, Rise-chan!"

Rise must be trying to blend in. There was something off about her face. And her hair was tied up in a high ponytail.

"Rise-chan?" Mina asked with a laugh.

"Lucky guess, right?" Akihiko snorted with a smile. "But I guess I should go, Mina. Business...I'll talk to you tonight, okay?"

"Okay. I love you, Aki."

"Love you too, Mina. Bye." He smiled.

After Mina said her own goodbye, Akihiko hung up and walked up to the two women.

"You know, it really is weird to see you without any make-up," Chie said.

Rise just giggled, winking at her.

"But a good disguise, isn't it? You look great though, Chie-senpai! You look so cute with a ponytail!"

"Hehe... thanks." Chie fidgeted for a moment, twirling the end of her ponytail around her finger, "I just thought a different look would be good, you know?"

"Oh, totally!" Rise nodded enthusiastically.

"We should get up to the penthouse before we get attention," Akihiko reminded them.

"Oh, right!" Chie smiled sheepishly. "Sorry about that, Master."

They made their way up to the top and Akihiko knocked. A moment later, the door swung open, revealing Shinji.

"Hey, Shinji," Akihiko greeted. "How are—ACK!"

Rise shoved him to the side, stalking forward with a predatory gleam in her eyes.

"Shinjiro-san~" she sang out. "You know what I'm going to say, aren't you?"

"Oh, here we go," Chie sighed, pressing a hand against her forehead. "Rise-chan, it's not really your business—"

"Fuck off, Kujikawa. I don't see how that's any of your business," Shinji said flatly, glowering at Rise.

Rise just tutted as she wagged her right index finger at Shinji.

"How rude! Do you really kiss Fuuka-chan with that mouth?" Then she put her hands on her hips, "And it is my business because Fuuka-chan is a good friend! Three months! You've had three months to propose, now that you have a ring—"

"Shoot me now," Shinji groaned out.

He hoped that Ken would get here soon, so that he wouldn't have to stop Shinji from killing Rise.

Chie let out a nervous laugh.

"So..." She shifted her weight to her other foot, clasping her hands behind her back. "When's Ken-kun getting here?"

"And the rest of his friends?" Akihiko asked.

Chie turned to Akihiko with surprise written all over her face.

"Wait, he's bringing them?" Chie squawked out.

"Yeah, Ken wouldn't budge on that," Shinji stated. "He could admit that the plan's not perfect. But he refused to let us sneak around the Phantom Thieves. Mitsuru agreed about it too. I'm surprised that she didn't tell you, Aki."

Akihiko rubbed his forehead. "She must've forgotten. She's been kinda stressed."

"Well... I can't say I disagree," Rise stated. "They still don't trust us one hundred percent, do they?"

"Sakamoto's mindset is pretty much 'fuck the police'," Shinji said flatly.

Akihiko rubbed his forehead again before glancing over at Chie.

"This will be fun," he said dryly.

"Oh relax!" Rise huffed, crossing her arms. "They were fine with Naoto-kun, despite them not really being fans of Goro Akechi."

Shinji huffed before rolling his eyes.

"Come on, get inside. I'll make you some food. Especially since Aki and Satonaka have been driving for so long."

Chie perked up at that. "Yes! It's been so long since I've had your cooking, Shinjiro-san!"

---

Ken lead the group on the sidewalk, heading towards his and Shinjiro-san's temporary home.

"So, who's exactly here?" Ryuji asked.

Ken glanced towards him.

"Well, there's two of them. Chie Satonaka is one of the two Investigation Team members you haven't met yet. She's training to be a police officer," he explained.

Ryuji grimaced. "Another cop?"

"Chie Satonaka...that name sounds familiar for some reason," Makoto murmured, a thoughtful expression on her face.

"Oh I know! She was on a TV special a couple months ago! The police academy she's attending is supposed to be the cream of the crop! They talked about her kung fu skills! I also heard that they were planning on doing a follow-up on police officers!" Futaba exclaimed.

"But if she's in the Investigation Team..." Yusuke trailed off for a moment. "She can't be that much older than us, correct?"

"She's twenty-two. Chie-san was Yu-san's classmate," Ken replied, then glanced towards Anne. "I think you'd like her, Anne. You have similar outlooks on life."

"Is that so?" Anne tilted her head before smiling. "I look forward to meeting her then."

Ryuji still looked a bit ambivalent, but he was finally starting to relax a bit. The others seemed to relax a bit more quickly than him, as expected.

"And what about the other, Ken-kun?" Haru inquired.

"That would be Akihiko-san," Ken answered as they entered the building, "He's Shinjiro-san's best friend, as I've mentioned before. Though, I am surprised that he came here to begin with."

"And why is that?" Morgana asked.

"Well you see, he's married to Minako-san. She'll be having their baby in a few weeks—"

"Wait, what?" Haru frowned as they stepped inside the elevator. "You never mentioned that before, Ken-kun!"

"What was I supposed to say? 'By the way everyone, my senpais are having a baby?' Or something like that?" Ken shrugged.

"Yeah, exactly," Futaba teased.

Ken rolled his eyes and shook his head.

"I'll remember that for next time," he deadpanned.

Ken shot a quick sideways glance at Ren. He'd been oddly quiet this whole time. He hoped Ren wasn't nervous about meeting Chie-san and Akihiko-san. Not that it wouldn't be understandable considering his circumstances. But he hoped at least his new friends would come to trust them as he did.

Ken then unzipped his bag, rummaging for his keys. He vaguely registered the elevator door open just as he managed to fish it out.

"GIVE IT BACK, KUJIKAWA!"

"That was Shinjiro-san, right?" Anne asked.

"Oh boy..." Ken sighed, "We better get inside before Shinjiro-san attempts to murder Rise-san."

Just what mischief was Rise-san up to this time? He hastily unlocked the door.

"I'm home—"

"Oh, Ken-kun!" Rise-san skidded to a stop. "And everyone else!"

There was a twinkle in her eyes that didn't sit well with Ken.

"Rise-san, what did you—" Makoto began.

"Oh nothing!" Rise-san waved off Makoto.

She was hiding something behind her back with her other hand.

"Wait, what are you holding?" Anne asked.

Ken marched over to the singer and quickly snatched the object she was hiding. A familiar velvet box now was in his hand. He frowned with exasperation.

"Really, Rise-san?"

Rise-san flashed her trademark puppy dog pout.

"Aw, you're no fun," she whined. But then she giggled all while winking. "But I hear that you're the one who gave that to Shinjiro-san in the first place. If only he would actually propose!"

Shinjiro-san stomped up to them, looking rather miffed.

"That's none of your fuckin' business," he growled out.

Shinjiro-san snatched the box from Ken, stuffing it into his pocket.

"Hey, good timing, Ken," Akihiko-san said with a grin, approaching them.

As usual, he had to ruffle his hair. Ken quickly deflected Akihiko-san's hand.

"Why are all of you so obsessed with touching my hair?" he grumbled out.

Before Akihiko-san could respond, Chie-san quickly clapped her hands, getting everyone's attention.

"So...should we get down to business?"

Akihiko-san nodded.

"Let's start with introductions first," he suggested, his eyes flickering towards Ren.

Shinjiro-san just scoffed under his breath, rolling his eyes in Akihiko-san's direction.

"Way to be subtle, Aki," he grumbled under his breath.

His friends all introduced themselves, and then Chie-san and Akihiko-san gave their introductions.

"So now that we all know each other…" Rise-san then winked at Ken once again. "Finally got a girl, huh?"

Ken felt his face redden.

"Rise-san!" He exclaimed.

"You should've seen him figure out what to wear for his first date with Niijima," Shinjiro-san muttered.

"Oh?" Ren quirked an eyebrow. "Care to elaborate?"

"We're here to have a meeting!" Ken snapped. "Not to go into depth about—"

"Your love life?" Ren supplied with that annoying grin of his.

"Aw, we're not?" Rise-san pressed a hand against her cheek. "Too bad."

Ken felt a bit relieved however, despite the teasing at his expense. Other than introducing himself, this was the first time Ren spoke. Perhaps he had nothing to worry about.

"Just be glad that Minako-san isn't here, Ken-kun," Chie-san quipped.

"Mina is pretty keen on meeting you, Makoto," Akihiko-san agreed.

"To embarrass Ken or to interrogate Makoto?" Futaba asked playfully.

"I'd say both, actually." Akihiko shrugged with a small smirk.

"Great, where's the nearest hole to crawl into?" Ken muttered out.

He heard Ren snort next to him.

"And you call me dramatic?" he snarked.

"You beat Ken, hands down." Ryuji joked, "It ain't even a competition, RenRen."

Anne nudged Ren and Ryuji in their sides. Ren just smirked at his girlfriend while he rubbed his side. Ryuji quietly complained to himself as he rubbed his side.

"Come on, we're getting seriously off topic," Anne pointed out.

"Right." Akihiko-san cleared his throat. "Your plan's good. This isn't meant to be an insult towards you, I promise..."

"Do you have something else in mind?" Haru asked.

"We're not changing your plan. Just offering backup," Akihiko responded.

"Your plan rides on tricking that Akechi," Chie-san stated. "And we don't know if Sae Niijima will know what to do if you hand her your phone, Ren-kun. Or if you'll even succeed in persuading her to help you. We will be monitoring things and we will interfere if needed—get Akechi into the Metaverse if Niijima can't. We also need to consider how to sneak you out if you do succeed. Rise-chan will be integral to that part. She'll guide us out of the police station. She can sense ordinary people, so she'll be able to warn us about incoming people."

"Crap, we just assumed we'd get Makoto's sis to help with that part." Ryuji gulped.

"If you succeed in convincing her to help you. That's a huge gamble. And even if that all pans out, what if something happens and both she and you are in danger?" Akihiko-san asked as he looked directly at Ren.

Ren had an unreadable expression, but Ken did notice his posture became stiffer.

"But you would need the app for your suggestion to work, wouldn't you?" Morgana asked.

"Oh." Akihiko-san blinked. "This must be the talking cat we heard about."

"I AM NOT A CAT!" Morgana yowled. "How many times do I have to say that?!"

"What is he saying now?" Shinjiro-san grumbled.

Futaba snickered, "He's saying he wants fatty tuna!"

"That's not what I said!" Morgana protested, before adding sheepishly, "Though I wouldn't say no to fatty tuna."

Ken rolled his eyes. "Morgana is just saying that he's not a cat. And... he was asking about how you were planning on acquiring the app."

"Well, that's easy," Rise-san said. "Ken-kun can just take us inside, right?"

"No, not just Ken," Ren said sternly. "We made a pact when Morgana introduced us to Mementos. No one goes in solo or even no more than less than four of us. Mementos is dangerous."

"Really?" Akihiko-san scratched his head. "Minato and Mina would take us to Tartarus, even if a couple of people had plans."

Rise-san didn't seem too concerned.

"So what if it's dangerous? Not like any of us haven't dealt with dangerous supernatural stuff before."

Ken had to admit, she did have a point there.

Ryuji shook his head, "Well this ain't your Tartarus or that TV world or whatever. It's Mementos."

"Ryuji is right. I know you all are experienced Persona users, but other than Ken, none of you have been in the Metaverse. Even Ken struggled a bit when he first appeared there," Makoto agreed.

"Yeah, I mean kids who excel with the highest grades in high school can still go to college and struggle to get good grades. We don't doubt your experience, but you're all big fish in a new pond. You can't expect everything to be the same," Futaba chimed in.

And Ken had to admit they all had good points too.

"We agreed to this as a group and I don't see why we should break that pact," Ren declared, and his tone made it clear there was no room for arguments.

Rise-san frowned but didn't protest further. Akihiko-san and Chie-san gave each other a slight nod. Shinjiro-san was surprisingly quiet during this whole debate.

"I guess that means you'll be taking us to Mementos then," Chie-san said. "Let's get going!"

Morgana sighed before looking to Ken. "Care to do the honors, Ken?"

"Gladly." Ken nodded.

He could feel the older Persona-users' curious looks as he dug out his phone.

"Mementos..." He spoke into the app.

"Beginning navigation."

---

Akihiko was glad that there was no falling like with the TV world. He couldn't help but look around curiously.

Ken wasn't kidding when he said it was a subway. His gaze happened to fall on Ken as he seemed to… transform. Blue fire engulfed his school uniform, replacing his Shujin jacket with a familiar looking blazer. Gold circles fastened a black cape to his shoulders. A white dress shirt and an orange vest.

"Have you ever seen this, Shinji?" Akihiko whispered to his best friend.

"Nope. Looks a little like the Gekkoukan uniform," Shinji replied after shaking his head.

"Huh, you're right." Akihiko rubbed his chin. "Wonder if that's because Ken always fought Shadows in his school uniform before."

"Are you two done psychoanalyzing my outfit?" Ken asked, a testy edge to his voice.

Shinji just gave him a smirk. "Definitely fits you, Ken."

Pink edged around Ken's mask. Ken quickly looked away.

"Shut up, Shinjiro-san."

"I don't see why you're embarrassed, Ken-kun. You look just adorable. If only my phone worked right now!" Rise clasped her hands together; then a devious grin appeared on her face as she looked at Makoto. "And I didn't know that was your preference, Ken-kun."

"Preference?" Makoto questioned. "What are you implying?"

Ren just smirked. "Oh, just that he's into—"

Ken glowered at Ren. "Shut. Up. Joker."

"What are you going to do?" Ren taunted with a smirk.

Okay, he could see why Ren reminded Shinji of Mina. He definitely had that devious air to him. Kinda made sense, though. Yu reminded Akihiko an awful lot of Minato.

"I could always add hot sauce to your coffee," Ken deadpanned.

"I beg your pardon?" Yusuke asked, only to be cut off by Ren's gasp.

The dark-haired boy looked just scandalized.

"Ace... why would you taint coffee like that?! Good luck convincing Sojiro to ever allow you into his café after you defile his coffee like that!"

Akihiko couldn't tell if Ren was being over dramatic on purpose or if he did take coffee that seriously. If he really was anything like Minako, then it could go either way.

"Maybe because you won't stop being a jerk!" Ken said childishly.

Akihiko had to fight back the urge to laugh. It was always amusing when Ken dropped being so serious and let his juvenile instincts take hold.

"Play nice, boys!" Anne chided, before poking Ren's side. "And stop picking on Ace, Joker."

"Did you hear what he said to me?" Ren whined even more dramatically. "Save me, Panther!"

Yep, he was definitely being over dramatic on purpose. He'd seen Mina do this routine more than once.

"You asked for it and you know it!" Ken practically was pouting.

Makoto elbowed Ken in the side.

"That's enough," she chided, even though her face was a bit pink at what Rise had insinuated. "And should you really argue with Joker in front of your senpai like this?"

Ken just snorted before looking pointedly at Akihiko and Shinji.

"I wouldn't get in a fist fight with Joker."

"I'd so win anyways," Ren said haughtily, pressing a hand against his chest.

"Someone's being over confident," Yusuke remarked.

"Et tu, Fox?" Ren glared at Yusuke.

"I mean you use daggers while Ace use spears." Futaba piped up, "I can't pick up a spear. So by default, Ace is probably physically stronger."

"In your case, that's because you have no upper strength whatsoever, Oracle," Yusuke said blandly.

"You're one to talk, Inari!" Futaba huffed as she stomped her foot.

"How many times have I told you to cease with that nickname?" Yusuke complained.

"Okay, enough. Let's play nice, everyone," Ken exclaimed, even as a smile tugged at his lips.

Akihiko remained silent during all the immature bickering. He slid closer to Shinji.

"Is this what you were talking about?" he whispered. "Why they're good for Ken?"

"Use your brain, dumbass," Shinji hissed back at him.

He could see what Shinji was talking about. Ken had made an effort to befriend other kids. He had been especially close to two members of the soccer team. But he probably couldn't open himself fully because he had to hide such a big part of him.

And Ken would always be a member of SEES, but he really was like the collective younger brother. They had their own lives to lead. But with the Phantom Thieves, he had both. Friends his age, friends who understood what he went through.

And... a girlfriend.

Akihiko glanced towards Makoto. He wasn't quite sure of what to make of her. Both Ken and Shinji talked a little about Makoto aspired to become a police officer to try and change the system from the inside. Though judging for the brass knuckles she wore on her hands... it might be interesting to try and spar with her some time. Though he probably should do that when Shinji was out of earshot.

"Hey uhh..." Chie looked bewildered. "Why are you using those weird names? Like Joker, Ace, Fox, Oracle—"

"That's because we use codenames!"

The high-pitched voice was completely unfamiliar. Akihiko looked around, bewildered.

"Down here!"

"A demon cat?!" Chie yelped, grabbing onto Rise's arm for a moment. Then her expression grew determined. "Come on, Haraedo-no-Okami…!"

"Chie-san, wait!" Ken cried out, holding up his hands. "It's just Morgana!"

Shinji frowned before looking up and down at the cartoonish cat. He looked completely unimpressed.

"I'm not sure what I was imagining ya to sound like but... this ain't it."

"Hmph! How rude!" Morgana glared at Shinji. "But as I was saying, we use codenames! For example, I'm Mona! And he's Joker."

"Codenames?" Chie echoed. "That's a new thing."

"Yeah, you didn't exactly mention that, Ken," Akihiko remarked.

Ken toyed with his glove as he sighed.

"Didn't think it was an important detail," he mumbled out.

"But you're Ace, huh?" Rise tilted her head. "It suits you."

"A-Anyway—!" Ken coughed into his hand. "Rise-san needs to see if she can summon."

Rise blinked before straightening up.

"Right!" She smiled brightly. "But I've been practicing! I can summon in the real world, so this should be easy peasy!"

"Wait... for real?!" Ryuji cried out, wide-eyed. "You can summon in the real world?!"

"Most of us can." Akihiko nodded. "At least out of everyone in SEES."

"How is that even possible?" Yusuke asked.

Akihiko frowned as he tried to think of how to explain this.

"Well… a Persona-user usually requires a 'medium' to summon. For us, it was Evokers." Then he gestured to Rise and Chie. "For the Investigation Team, it manifested as tarot cards that they had to shatter with their weapon. Though in Rise's case, she was able to do it with just her mind. And for you, it's your mask."

"But the medium is sort of a crutch." Shinji picked up the explanation. "It just makes it easier to summon. You need to be able to connect with your Persona and focus. It takes a great deal of concentration, and it'll tucker you out a lot more than using a medium. It'll take ya years to master the ability. Most of us outta SEES got the hang of it ages ago."

Akihiko then held out his hand, concentrating. He felt the usual tingle that came with him channeling electricity through his hand.

"Whoa!" Ryuji yelped, eyes wide. "That's so cool! I wanna do that!"

"That's like when Ace uses his healing powers in the real world," Makoto commented.

"Yeah, it's taken a lot of practice, but it is pretty useful once you've nailed it." Akihiko closed his fist.

Anne turned away from Akihiko to glance at Chie.

"Are you there yet, Chie-san?" Anne asked.

Chie just shook her head, smiling ruefully.

"Not quite, I'm afraid. Though honestly it's been like, four years, since I've been out in the field."

"What about you, Ace?" Futaba asked. "I mean, you can heal in the real world."

Ken ducked his head, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm afraid that I can't."

"Hey, what you can do is pretty cool already!" Ryuji quickly interjected.

"Thanks, Skull." Ken smiled ruefully. "But it just means that I have quite a bit to go still."

Haru cleared her throat, catching their attention.

"Do you want to summon just to check though, Rise-san?" Haru looked at Rise in concern. "Since this is a new environment."

"Oh... good idea." Rise nodded.

"Stand back, guys. Rise-chan's Persona needs a lot of space." Chie warned.

Rise closed her eyes for a moment, holding out her hand. A blue tarot card shimmered to life, before spinning above Rise's palm. It shattered into a million pieces before a tall elegant figure appeared above Rise, fitting a red visor over her eyes. Planets spun around them.

"Holy crap!" Futaba gasped.

"And I thought Necronomicon was something else." Ren commented.

"Wow, this place is huge!" Rise gasped. "We have at least forty—no, maybe fifty floors! And they're a lot bigger than in the TV world. And these Shadows' readings…I've never encountered them before."

"You can sense all that?" Haru's eyes widened in shock. "That's incredible!"

Rise dismissed her Persona.

"Hmm, it's not quite a clear picture." She gave a little frown, before a sigh escaped her. "I bet if Fuuka-chan was here, she'd be able to tell us more."

"Aw, Rise-chan…" Chie shook her head, before she placed a hand on Rise's shoulder. "You know, you're a great scanner too! Not to mention how your Persona can fight too! Nobody can boast of that!"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!" Futaba cried, "Your Persona can what?!"

"Oh… that's right." Ken rubbed the back of his head. "Rise-san never mentioned that before."

Rise giggled, clasping her hands behind her back.

"Yep, Kouzeon has a different form! She can fight in that form. The form was born out of my resolve to be able to protect my friends."

"I can't do that though," Futaba said softly.

Rise then approached her, placing a hand on Futaba's shoulder.

"But you can do things I can't do," she said kindly. "Ken-kun—ah, Ace—mentioned something about you being able to turn the tides if the Shadows get a drop on you. I can't do that. And Fuuka-chan can't—and she can scan for Shadows super far away! We've all got our talents and weaknesses. Don't make the same mistake as me, okay?"

Futaba bit her lip before giving a little nod, "Okay."

"Though I gotta say…" Akihiko began. "I'm kinda curious about what Mementos looks like from the inside. Mind if we—"

"We're not prepared for a Mementos run," Ken cut him off. "You guys don't even have weapons!"

"You're such an idiot, Aki," Shinji deadpanned.

"Shut up, Shinji!"

---

After they left Mementos, everyone went their separate ways. Though Ken made a point in getting Makoto out of there as soon as possible. He didn't want Rise-san to start teasing them again. He was really not looking forward to when he had to introduce Makoto to Junpei-san and Minako-san.

When he entered the penthouse once more, Shinjiro-san was setting up his laptop.

"Video call with everyone." He answered Ken's unspoken question. "Minako called and said that everyone's free."

Akihiko-san nodded as he adjusted the webcam.

"I know you've talked to Mitsuru recently but it would be nice to talk to everyone. It's been ages since we've been able to do that." Then he squinted at the webcam. "Gimme a sec—aha! Here we go! Shinji, go ahead and plug in your laptop."

Shinjiro-san nodded. The TV then flickered on, showing a split screen.

"Hey guys!" Minako-san greeted cheerfully, waving at them.

"Haven't seen your faces in a while, Shinjiro-san, Ken!" Junpei-san added with a cheeky smile.

Yukari-san sighed, "That's what you have to say, Junpei?"

"Hey, just trying to break the ice here!" Junpei-san quickly defended.

Fuuka-san just giggled softly. "But anyway…how's everything?"

"Oh, you know… trying not to get my friend killed—just the usual." Ken deadpanned.

"You met the Phantom Thieves today, I assume?" Mitsuru-san inquired.

Akihiko-san nodded. "Yeah, they all seem pretty nice kids actually—"

"Wait, wait, wait." Minako-san held up a hand. "Aki… you met Makoto-chan and you didn't put me on the phone?!"

Ken groaned. At the rate this was going, he was never going to introduce Makoto to the others.

"Priorities, Minako." Yukari-san sighed, shaking her head.

"It's a priority for me!"

"A-Anyways, where are the twins?" Ken stammered out.

"I believe Ken-san is attempting to deflect," Aigis-san stated.

"Aigis-san!" he protested.

"Can't blame us for being curious, Ken," Junpei-san snickered. "You wouldn't give any girl a second look and then Mako-tan comes along and steals your heart."

"Iori, that was a lame joke," Shinjiro-san deadpanned.

"HEY!" He protested.

Chidori-san just giggled from behind Junpei-san.

"I thought it was funny," she said with a soft smile.

"And that's all that matters!" Junpei-san smiled goofily.

Fuuka smiled at their exchange while she shook her head. Her expression then changed to that of concern.

"Another two days though." Fuuka-san asked quietly, "Do you feel ready…?"

Ken sighed but he still nodded.

"As ready as we can be. We'll discuss the calling card tomorrow, so to give Akechi the illusion that we're showing him how we go about it." Then he pursed his lips, "I hope giving the calling card to Niijima-san won't be so hard on Makoto, though," he added quietly.

He was really worried for her. Haru may have loved her father, but Makoto had aspired to be like her sister.

"I can't imagine how she feels, being forced to fight against her sister." Aigis-san then looked down, her expression pensive. "But my sister might."

"All you can do is be there for her, Ken-kun," Chidori-san sighed. Then she said gently, "And I imagine everyone else will be there to support her too."

"Have more faith in her." Akihiko-san suddenly spoke up, "She's resolved to save her sister. I can understand how she feels."

"Aki…" Minako-san breathed out.

"I'm okay, Mina. Gives me more motivation to see this succeed, yeah?" Akihiko-san smiled half-heartedly.

"That's correct." Mitsuru-san said with a firm nod before inquiring, "And after this… you will pursue Shido?"

Ken sighed, running his right hand through his hair.

"Yes. I don't know how we'll figure out the keywords to his Palace, but we have to take down Shido. Before it's too late."

"I've heard talk of him lately," Shinjiro-san said suddenly, then he scoffed. "Saying that he's got the right idea about this country. What a load of bullshit."

Mitsuru-san spoke up suddenly. "Nanjo spoke with me yesterday. Amada, please take caution. You may have backup in Akihiko and Satonaka, but the plan also rides on you fooling Shido into thinking that the Phantom Thieves will be neutralized with the death of Amamiya."

Ken grimaced. He tried not to think of it but... Mitsuru-san was right.

"I know, Mitsuru-san… believe me, I know what's exactly at stake."

"You're being too uptight, Mitsuru-senpai. I know I didn't get to talk to your friends all that much, Ken-kun… but you are a close-knit group from what I've seen. You'll do whatever it takes to make sure that Ren-kun makes it out okay," Yukari-san said with encouragement.

"What's this?" Junpei-san gasped, clutching at his chest. "Yuka-tan being positive?"

"Junpei…" Chidori began, only to be cut off.

"Oh, shut up, Junpei!" Yukari scowled at him. "Just wait until I get back to Port Island!"

"You two never will stop bickering, huh?" Shinjiro-san commented.

"You're one to talk, Shinjiro-san," Ken said dryly.

Minako-san clapped her hands three times, very loudly, to get everyone's attention. It also was to defuse any senseless bickering.

"Anyways… don't worry, Mitsuru-senpai! They've got this in the bag! Akechi won't know what hit him!" she exclaimed.

---

Goro abruptly sneezed. Was someone talking about him behind his back? Not that it mattered. He wiped his nose with a tissue in his pocket, discarding the trash in a small bin by the door as he walked into Shido's office.

"You wished to see me, Shido-san?"

Shido turned to face Goro, remaining seated at his desk.

"Yes, that's right," he said with an unreadable expression.

Goro just tilted his head.

"And why would that be? I assure you that the preparations are complete." He allowed a small smirk come across his face. "The Phantom Thieves won't know what hit them. Before the night ends, Amamiya will be in police custody."

"And you will bring my men into that place a day before, correct?"

"Correct, I don't think it'd be wise to do it right before I'm supposed to met with Amamiya and his lackeys." The young detective nodded.

"Fine." Shido then steepled his fingers together, resting his chin on them. "We will soon bring those pathetic thieves to heel."

"Which is nothing more than what they deserve, Shido-san." Goro allowed his TV smile to appear on his face. "Amamiya had best savor these last couple days."

"Once he's dead, the rest will be easy pickings." Shido nodded, a smug smile on his face.

Shido was so arrogant that it was aggravating. He and Amamiya—they were cut from the same cloth. So cocky and thinking they were untouchable just because of a little taste of power.

"And we will deal with Kirijo soon after," Goro stated.

"Hm."

"Something else on your mind, Shido-san?" Goro raised an eyebrow.

"Don't be impertinent," Shido snapped, he plucked a manila folder lying on the desk. "This will answer your question."

Goro frowned but he took it from Shido. He flipped it open, revealing a koseki, or a Japanese family record. To be specific… his old family record. When he had come to Shido, offering his services, he had asked for one boon. He wanted new records. He wanted a new life, starting with a new name. He had kept his first name, but he had chosen Akechi, to fit the detective persona he had begun to cultivate. He'd be like Kogoro Akechi, the Japanese Sherlock Holmes.

He started to skim through the list.

Eiji Himura—born on February 18th, 1950, died on August 20th, 2003

- Married Kiyomi Ikeda in 1971

Kiyomi Himura—born on September 7th, 1951, died on August 20th, 2003

- Married Eiji Himura in 1971

Tsukiko Himura—born on August 31st, 1973, died on January 30th, 2008

- Had one son: Goro Himura

Hikari Himura—born on August 31st, 1973, died on October 4th, 2009

- Married Kazuhiro Amada in 1996

Goro felt himself halt in his tracks after skimming the list over.

Amada?!

"I…" Goro blinked. "Is this really true?"

"It is." Shido smirked. "Are you sure that you've never met in the past?"

Goro racked his brain. It had to be impossible! There was simply no way—wait. The first time he had ever set foot in Tokyo…

---

"Don't let go of my hand, Goro."

"Okay, Mama."

Goro had never been in Tokyo. And it was much nicer than where they lived. Not that he'd ever say it to Mama. His mama worked so hard and she was usually really tired. But she always had a smile and a hug for Goro.

He just wished her eyes weren't so sad all the time.

"Mama?" Goro bit his lip. "Can I ask you a question?"

"What's the matter, sweetheart?"

"Why are we here?"

His mama pulled him in a less busy area before crouching in front of Goro.

"My sister asked if we could come see her." But Mama's lips twisted, like when she was unhappy but didn't want to say it because she didn't want to be rude. "But I can guess what she wants."

Goro blinked. "You have a sister, Mama?"

Goro's only family was his mama. He didn't have a papa, unlike most kids, for some reason. Mama always got sad when he started to ask, so Goro had learned to not talk about it.

"I do." Mama gave a small nod. "And she has a son your age—your cousin."

"But how come you never talked about her?"

Mama's lips formed a thin line.

"We... got into a fight a long time ago, before you were born."

"A fight? Why don't you two just say sorry, then?" Goro asked.

His mama sighed before a sad smile formed on her lips.

"It's a bit more complicated than that, sweetheart."

"Oh. Okay."

She smiled slightly before leaning down to kiss Goro's forehead.

"Come on, sweetheart. We shouldn't waste any more time."

They started walking again. She took him to a fancy building. Mama spoke to someone behind the desk and she led him to a door. Goro didn't understand why Mama didn't open the door, instead pressing a button. And then there was a ding and the door opened. She pushed another button and then suddenly they were going up.

When it stopped moving, Mama took Goro's hand once again. She led him to another door. She took a deep breath before knocking.

"One moment!" some lady called out.

Then the door opened, revealing a lady who looked an awful lot like Mama. She had the same brown hair and reddish-brown eyes as both he and Mama did. Her bangs were like Mama's too. But she wore her hair in a side ponytail, though. While Mama wore her hair down.

"Suki... it's nice to see you."

Suki? He scrunched up his nose in confusion. Mama's name was Tsukiko, not Suki.

"Hikari," Mama said stiffly, her voice oddly cold. "You look well."

She then sighed; her coldness slightly melted away. Then she looked back to Goro, her eyes softening.

"Goro, this is my sister, Hikari." She gestured to the lady. "Hikari, this is my son, Goro."

"He looks very much like you," Mama's sister said softly before crouching to Goro's level; she smiled at him. "Hi, Goro-kun. It's nice to meet you."

"Um… hi." Goro quickly hid behind Mama's leg.

She had a pretty smile and she looked like Mama, but Goro didn't do well with strangers.

"Please, come in," Mama's sister said, rising to her feet.

She then stepped aside so Goro and his mama could come into the room and she looked down at Goro.

"Goro-kun, my son Ken is watching Feathermen Rangers. Would you like to join him?"

"Can I, Mama?" Goro asked eagerly.

He loved that show. But he wasn't able to watch much, since Mama couldn't afford cable. She did her best to borrow DVDs from the library though.

Mama gave a little frown. "Well… I suppose I don't see the harm. He is your cousin, after all."

"Cousin?" Goro echoed.

"Hikari is my sister," Mama said. "And Ken-kun is her son, so he's your cousin."

"Oh."

Goro couldn't help but think that having more family would be nice. He hoped that Mama and Mama's sister would make up. Mama needed friends… she looked so lonely and sad sometimes.

Ken was his age. He had brown hair like Goro, with the same bangs as Mama and her sister. He had regular brown eyes instead of reddish brown, though.

He turned his attention from the TV, blinking at Mama and Goro. "U-Um… hello."

Mama's sister just smiled, her eyes becoming warm. She then picked up the remote, turning off the TV.

"Ken, do you remember what I told you yesterday?" she asked.

He tilted his head a bit, a small frown on his face, "That your sister is coming, right?"

"That's right." Mama's sister's smile turned pleased before she began to stroke his hair. "This is my sister, Tsukiko. And her son, Goro-kun."

Now she was calling her Tsukiko instead of Suki? Well at least she got the name right this time.

"It's nice to meet you," he said politely, only to turn to his mama. "But Mommy, are we doing anything today? Could I play with Makoto-chan again?"

"Oh, Ken…" Mama's sister sighed. "I don't know where Makoto-chan's family lives."

Ken's expression fell.

"Oh, okay. Sorry, Mommy."

"It's okay, honey."

Mama cleared her throat. "It's nice to meet you, Ken-kun."

Ken just blinked at her and shyly said, "Hello…"

"Aunt Suki," Mama cut in. "Hikari used to call me Suki when we were young."

Oh… so that's why she called her Suki earlier.

"Suki…" Mama's sister whispered.

Goro was confused. She almost looked like she wanted to cry, but she was smiling. Mama sighed before tucking a strand of hair behind her ear.

"We… We have a lot to talk about, Hikari," she said quietly.

"We do." She nodded. "I booked the conjoined room for you and Goro-kun. We can talk there."

After their mamas left, Ken patted the spot next to him. After Goro climbed onto the bed, Ken spoke.

"Do you like Feathermen Rangers?" Ken asked. "Or do you wanna watch something e—"

"No!" Goro cried out, shaking his head furiously. "I love that show!"

Ken's face lit up.

"It's my favorite! Red Hawk's the best!" he gushed.

"He's cool," Goro said, giving a small nod. "But I like Feather Horned Owl the best."

Ken nodded in agreement.

"They're all cool," his cousin said, before making a face of disgust. "But it's really gross when Pink Argus and Red Hawk kiss."

"That's definitely the worst part of the show," Goro agreed before plopping on the bed. "I wish that Mama could get cable so I could watch it more!"

"You don't?!" Ken gasped, his eyes growing wide as saucers. "I can't imagine not having cable!"

"Nope." Goro ducked his head. "I-Is that weird?"

"I dunno. I haven't gotten to play with a lot of kids," Ken admitted, his expression then brightening. "But I got to play with someone yesterday! Mommy and me met Makoto-chan in the park. She was fun to play with."

Goro recoiled. A girl? Wasn't this cousin of his aware of the dangers?

"Don't girls have cooties?"

"Do they? I dunno... but Makoto-chan was really nice."

Goro wrinkled his nose. "You seem to really like her. Do you like-like her? Like the way Red Hawk and Pink Argus do?"

"Ew!" Ken shuddered, looking disgusted. "Why would I kiss Makoto-chan?! That's just weird!"

"If you say so." Goro snatched up the remote, clicking the button to turn on the TV.

They sat there, watching the episode with bated breath. Goro didn't quite understand what was going on but he always loved watching the Feathermen Rangers in action! He'd love to have special powers like the Rangers.

But the episode ended, switching to commercials. A commercial showed the Feathermen R action figures, and Ken pointed at the screen.

"I've got Red Hawk!" he said. "Do you have any, Goro?"

Goro shook his head.

"I'd love to but… Mommy says she can't afford it…"

Ken bit his lip. He looked sad. His expression quickly changed as his eyes lit up.

"I know! I brought him with me! Let me get him and you can play with it for now!" his cousin offered.

"Really?!" His jaw dropped.

Ken nodded.

"Mommy says we gotta share and it's not fair that you can't have one on your own… gimme a sec!"

He jumped off the bed before grabbing a suitcase. He began to dig through it. He was mumbling something under his breath. It was a good five minutes before he looked up again.

"I can't find it." Ken frowned, biting his lip. Then his expression brightened. "But I bet Mommy knows where it is! I'll go ask her!"

"Are you sure?" Goro asked. "I think our mamas were talking…"

"How long can they talk though?" Ken shook his head. "It'll be fine! Come on!"

He followed Ken to the door but before either of them could reach for the doorknob, Mama spoke.

"I came here to see you," Mama snapped. "Not to say goodbye to them."

"What?! You're not coming to the funeral?"

"Why should I?! They betrayed me! All but threw me to the streets!"

"Suki… I know this is asking a lot. But… don't you want to say goodbye at least? I know that things between you and Mom and Dad did not go well last time you spoke but… we were happy once."

"No, Hikari. You know what I have to do to support myself and Goro?"

Mama sounded angry. Really angry. It honestly kinda scared Goro. Goro looked wide-eyed at Ken. His cousin looked scared too.

"I had to whore myself out."

Hole? What was Mama talking about?

"I have to let my clients do what they want with my body. And I had to do it with a smile. If they wanted to have their way with me afterwards… how can I say no? Money is money, after all."

"S-Suki, I didn't know—"

"That's your problem, Hikari!" Mama snapped, before adding bitterly, "You always were the lucky one."

"Wh-What? What are you talking about?"

"You were always the favorite! Mom and Dad never had anything to complain about with you! Not to mention how life has favored you!"

"How am I lucky?!" Mama's sister suddenly snapped.

"Oh, I don't know—maybe because you found Kazuhiro when we were just juniors in high school? It was like a fairy tale romance."

"A fairy tale?" Mama's sister then sighed. "Kaz and I… we divorced for a few reasons. I still love him, but… we just were not meant to be."

"You still got love."

Mama sounded…angry. And tired at the same time, somehow.

But there was a long silence.

"I…I warned you, Suki." Mama's sister's voice cracked. "I knew that he was abusing you. He told you what you wanted to hear. He just was manipulating you and once he got what he wanted…"

"Shut up, Hikari!" Mama shouted. "I've heard that crap from you a hundred times! And you expect me to go along with all this. Expect me to pretend that I've actually given a thought to Mom and Dad after these years. They disowned me! Hung me up to dry! They couldn't bear to have a daughter who got knocked up! They wanted me to get an abortion! They wanted me to kill my baby!"

"What's knocked up?" Ken whispered.

"I dunno…" Goro whispered back. "I've only heard of knocking on a door…"

And what was that about killing? His grandparents had wanted him dead?

"I never agreed—"

"You let them cut me off!" Mama's voice suddenly cracked. "T-That hurts, Hikari. We had been together for so long—since before birth—and you just watched."

"That's not true! I begged and pleaded with them not to! I tried to get you, Mom, and Dad to agree to just talk but you all refused! I wanted you to talk to me but you wouldn't let me get a word in! What was I supposed to do? It felt like a miracle that you agreed to come! Suki, please, I don't want you to keep all this anger in. I want us to be sisters again! Let our sons know each other!"

"So, you're saying I shouldn't be angry?!" Mama snapped. "After all they did to me! At least you were sympathetic to my situation, even if you kept trying to lecture me!"

"I-I'm not saying—" She then cut herself off. "Suki, please, all I want is for us to be a family again…"

"SHUT UP HIKARI!" Mama shouted at the top of her lungs. "God, I can't stand your attitude! You're always making some kind of excuse for them! You just have to be the dutiful daughter! What about me?! I'm your twin sister!"

"I love you, Suki, why don't you believe me?!"

Mama's voice suddenly became cold and quiet, like when she was really angry.

"That makes one of us."

A choked sound came from her sister. "W-What?"

"You always called me naïve for loving him. And maybe I was. A little. But you… I can't stand your attitude! You never knew what it was like—"

"Kaz and I divorced when Ken was two and he died less than a year after!"

"You think that compares to how I've had to work myself to the bone and how I had to become a whore just to survive?!"

"I didn't say it was! I'm just saying that my life is not perfect! I'm not 'favored' like you say!"

"You don't get it, Hikari! You never understood how I feel!"

"Help me understand then," Mama's sister begged. "Please Suki. Don't push me away…"

"No. It was obviously a mistake to come here," Mama said, her voice unusually cold. "Goodbye, Hikari."

"No! Suki, please—"

"Let go of me! Can't you get it through your thick skull?! You're lying to yourself when you claim to love me. At least I'm not deluding myself!"

"W-What are you saying?"

Mama made a frustrated sound.

"Do I have to spell it out?! I'm saying that I HATE YOU!" she screamed.

There was a dead silence. Then a sniffle.

"Okay. I get it, Tsukiko." Another sniffle. "But remember this. I love you. And I always will. I'm sorry for not being there for you when you needed me. I really am. I failed you as a sister. I had hoped to fix that mistake today, but… I see that's not going to happen. I hope you and Goro-kun have a happy life."

Goro looked at Ken and they scrambled back to the bed. The door opened and Mama's sister walked out.

There were tears in Mama's sister's eyes. Why was she crying? She was a grown up!

"Mommy?" Ken ran up to her, hugging her leg. He begged, "D-Don't cry!"

"Ken…"

She picked him up, hugging him close. She smiled, but her eyes still looked so sad.

"H-How about we go to the park for a bit, hmm?"

"You mean I can't watch Neo Feathermen with Goro? Mommy, what's wrong?"

"Nothing, sweetie. It's… It's nothing."

Goro didn't want to listen anymore. He ran in to see Mama.

Mama sat on the bed; her eyes were dull as she stared outside the window.

"Mama?" Goro whispered, tugging at her sleeve.

"Goro..." she breathed out.

She reached for him, pulling him into her lap. Goro let her cuddle him for a moment before speaking.

"Mama…" he said quietly. "What happened?"

"It's a long story, sweetie."

"We have time, Mama."

Mama's arms tightened around Goro. "My mom and dad… they died."

Goro tilted his head, looking up at his mama.

"Died?" he repeated.

Mama winced before brushing her bangs out of her eyes. "It means they went to sleep. Forever. They're gone… forever."

"Oh." But then he frowned. "But what's that have to do about what you were talking 'bout to your sister?"

Mama sighed.

"Before you were born, my parents made me… very sad. They were upset with something I decided to do. They didn't want me in the family anymore."

"What did they say?"

She squeezed her eyes tightly and she seemed to tremble. "That's not important."

"But your sister looked so sad," Goro said faintly. "D-Do you really hate her?"

"I said something I didn't mean," Mama whispered, as she clutched Goro tighter. "I was so angry at Hikari."

"You don't hate her?" When she gave a little nod, Goro suggested, "Why not just say sorry then?"

Mama's bottom lip trembled, before she buried her face in Goro's hair. He felt something wet fall into his hair.

"I just wish it was that simple, sweetheart. I really do…I think…it's too late. Something broke today—and I don't think I can fix it."

---

Four years later, Goro was working on his homework at the kitchen table when the doorbell rang. Goro set down his pencil before he went to open the door.

"Is this the Himura residence?"

Goro frowned. "Uh… yeah?"

Who are you? was on the tip of Goro's tongue

"Yes…" the man stressed with a frown. "Young man, is your mother home? Tsukiko Himura?"

"D-Do you want to be alone with her? I'll find her and get out of the house."

Goro fought the urge to sigh. Where could he go now? Maybe he could check for some change and take the train to the library?

"What are you—" The man sighed, as a weird expression came onto his face. "Never mind. Yes, I'd like to speak with your mother but you don't need to leave the house."

"Okay." Goro shifted on his feet uneasily. "Y-You can sit on the couch. Um…who should I tell her who it is?"

His face seemed to scrunch up, but he gave a little nod before sitting on the edge of the couch. "My name is Isao Amada."

Goro gave a little nod to acknowledge the man's statement. He then shut the door before heading for his mom's room.

Mom was curled on her side, clutching a pillow to her chest. Goro felt guilty for doing this, but he didn't think the man would be happy if he came out and told him that Mom was sleeping.

Goro crept up to Mom, before poking her cheek.

"Mom?" He whispered.

"Mm…" Mom slowly blinked her eyes open before she rubbed at her eyes. "Goro?"

"Hi Mom." Goro then bit his lip. "A man named Isao Amada is here to see you."

"Isao? I see…" His mom sat up immediately.

"Mom?"

"It's nothing, sweetheart." Mom leaned forward to kiss his forehead. "Let me freshen up and I'll go talk to him. But after you tell Amada-san that I'm coming, go to your room."

"Huh? Why?" Goro tilted his head. "Who is that man, Mom?"

"Nobody you need to concern yourself with," Mom said firmly all while running her fingers through her hair. "Goro, go do your homework in your room. I mean it. This is probably a conversation for adults."

Goro bowed his head.

"If you say so, Mom."

He headed downstairs to talk to the man once more.

"Mom will be down in a sec," he said.

"And just what was the woman doing?"

Goro recognized that tone. His teachers often used that tone with him. They talked him down, assuming that he was so stupid. Goro decided that he didn't like this man.

"Calm down, Amada-san," Mom said sharply. She folded her arms over her chest. "Come into the kitchen. We'll talk there."

"Very well."

He stood up, his mouth twisting as he took a good look at Mom.

Goro ducked into the hallway, but once he heard the adults seat themselves in the kitchen, he darted forward. He had to know why Mom didn't seem to like him.

"I haven't seen you since Hikari married Kazuhiro," Mom said flatly. "What do you want?"

"Hikari's dead."

"WHAT?!" Mom then coughed. "What do you mean she's dead?"

"It was an accident. A drunk driver lost control of his vehicle and he hit the house. Hikari was protecting Ken from the looks of it."

"I…" Mom coughed again. "When's the funeral?"

"It already happened. It was a quick and quiet affair. The head of the Kirijo Group himself paid for all the expenses."

"You… You buried my sister and didn't bother to contact me before?!"

"And why should I cater to you? You're a disgrace. You can barely take care of yourself. And what kind of future will your son have? Oh wait." He let out a short laugh. "He won't have one because he's a bastard."

"You leave Goro out of this!" Mom snapped. "He's a smart boy, he'll be fine—"

"You ruined him because of your choices. I'm glad that I have gained custody of Ken. He won't be ruined by a woman of loose morals."

Morals? But Mom wasn't a bad person. Why was this man saying she was?

"I…no…" Mom then let out a little sob, then a sniffle. "That's not true… Are you going to take in Ken-kun then?"

"No, he will be attending Gekkoukan's elementary branch. He will be placed in a dormitory."

"You—what?! Hika—Hikari isn't even cold in the ground and you don't even think to console him?! He needs affection more than anything! How dare you!"

"That is all I have to say to you. I thought you deserved this courtesy at least."

The horrible man finally left.

There was silence. And then a sniffle. And then more. Mom…was crying.

"He's right… isn't he?" Mom's voice suddenly broke. "Have I doomed Goro?"

Goro wanted to run in and hug Mom. It didn't matter that he was practically a grown up now. She really sounded like she needed a hug. But Goro remained rooted on the spot. He could not let Mom know that he had been listening in.

He was broken from his thoughts when he heard her choking back a sob.

"Hika… I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I was a terrible sister. I-I never hated you. I was just angry at the situation and how you seemed to have it better. A-And now… you're dead. I can't tell you that I'm sorry for that day. Or how I love you." Goro heard Mom let out a wail. "I didn't even get to say goodbye! I can't even help your son!"

Goro sank to the ground. He couldn't imagine losing his mother so suddenly. He felt tears roll down his cheeks.

"There's so many things I didn't say… and I'm so sorry…" Mom said as she continued to weep.

---

Mom had committed suicide just a few months later. He remembered that during the last months of her life, she had been… so miserable. She tried to act cheerful to him, but she couldn't hide the redness in her eyes. And when she had killed herself, she had left him a note. Apologizing to him. For ruining his life. And so his life was turned upside down.

This was just unbelievable. As if he didn't need any more proof that some higher being hated him.

He remembered asking Amada: Have we met before? Before, he had been amused by how Amada did not recognize him as the Persona-user he had fought. But they really had met before.

Was this some kind of sick joke? Ever since his mom died, Goro had longed for some kind of family. But he remembered what the courts had said.

No immediate family. He will have to go into the foster system.

And now he had family. Family who absolutely despised him.

Goro was not a fool. He could see that Amada disliked him. He hid it better than Sakamoto—but that was not difficult. Goro could see the disdain in Amada's eyes every time Goro looked at him.

And Amada…he didn't care about his situation.

His father did not want to be a father, much like Shido. Shido had tossed his mom to the curb for a reason, after all. Amada's mother—Goro's aunt—was dead. And he couldn't help but suspect now that not all was what it seemed with Amada's mother's death.

And yet, he got love. His senpai gave him love apparently. And he didn't even earn it! Goro had always tried his best to win affection from his old foster families. But they refused to give it to him. They viewed him as just trash. He was always dumped back onto the orphanage. It was a hellish cycle.

Some people had all the luck. Even some bastards. Takeba's bastards came to mind. Oh poor them. They lived the pampered lives of a celebrity's children. Nobody aside his mom had ever comforted him when he realized just how difficult a life of a bastard was. It was infuriating—maddening, even.

But even then, Amada was a fool. A naïve fool. How could anyone believe in justice with this kind of society? Perhaps life has coddled him far too much.

But then it hit Goro. Why had Shido brought this up to begin with?

He gave Shido a sharp look.

"May I ask why you are telling me this, Shido-san?"

Shido just chuckled darkly, before a malicious smile spread across his face.

"Listen closely, Akechi. Because I know just how to ensure that Kirijo never sticks her nose in my business ever again."

---

Friday, November 18th, 2016

---

"LeBlanc is really empty today," Haru observed before seating herself.

"More coffee for us, at least?" Anne joked.

Makoto sighed quietly, folding her arms over her chest. She had to hide how her hands were shaking.

"But ain't LeBlanc usually empty?" Ryuji interjected. "This is no surprise."

"Ryuji, don't be rude. Or I'll tell Boss you're slandering him and LeBlanc," Ren teased.

"Dude?!" Ryuji sputtered out.

"We're all witnesses," Futaba jested with a mischievous smile. "You can't back out of it now."

"Enough picking on Ryuji. Let's cut to the chase." Ken sighed.

"Yes, we should discuss how exactly to deliver the calling card to Mako-chan's sister." Haru nodded.

"Considering how big the hype's been getting…" Anne trailed off for a moment with a frown. "She'd prolly think it's a prank, wouldn't she?"

"Why not let me handle it?" Akechi suggested, "I can put it on Sae- san's desk at the office. People wouldn't suspect that I'm up to something. We are partners, after all."

"That's not a good idea," Ren said. "If you look at the pattern of how we sent the calling card, we are always careful so that the calling card won't be traced back to us."

"Oh?" Akechi tilted his head.

Morgana nodded, "That's right. With Kamoshida, Ryuji plastered it all over the bulletin board, so it could've been any student."

"And we sent the calling card at Madarame's gallery." Yusuke added.

"Ryuji and I placed countless copies all over Shibuya so that it would catch Kaneshiro's men's eyes." Makoto added.

"And while our target was Medjed, we stole Futaba's Treasure…so we hand delivered it to her." Ken explained.

"I see…" Akechi bowed his head. "Heh. I really am inexperienced with this, aren't I?"

"Yeah, like we didn't know that…" Ryuji grumbled under his breath. Then he spoke louder: "But we still gotta figure this out. Or else we won't be able to steal Makoto's sis's Treasure."

"Let me do it. I'll make sure to bring in the mail. I can claim to Sis that I found the calling card in the mailbox." Makoto said firmly.

"But Makoto…" Futaba bit her lip. "That's still kinda risky… what if your sister doesn't buy it?"

"I know it is, Futaba," Makoto replied seriously. "But we all have to take risks for this heist to succeed."

In more ways than one. Even with the backup they had, Makoto couldn't help but worry about all this. She didn't want Sae to become a target. She didn't want Ren to die. But she had to face it all with a smile.

They all had a part in this—and this was hers.

"Have faith in her," Ren suddenly interjected. "She's hardly a newbie when it comes to danger."

Anne was still frowning but she nodded. "Yeah! Good luck, Makoto."

"We will leave it to you, then," Akechi said thoughtfully. "Thank you for agreeing to this. Though… I will need to step up my game as well, then."

"It's not a competition, you know." Ken said dryly.

"Forgive me." Akechi bowed his head. "I just feel this way since this is Sae-san we're talking about. She's very important to me."

She held back the urge to glare at him. Sometimes she wondered if Akechi could keep track of all his lies. He seemed genuine, but Makoto couldn't help but be doubtful of what he said. After all, he claimed to string them all along with a 'sob story' to Shido.

"Our last heist," Morgana said quietly. "It feels…surreal, if I'm being honest."

"I must confess that it's strange," Yusuke stated, folding his arms over his chest. "I've only been a Phantom Thief for scarcely more than six months. And yet… it feels like such an important part of my identity now."

"You're telling me." Ryuji heaved out a sigh. "It's just kinda great to… cut loose, y'know?"

"There is no feeling like it," Ren stated, closing his eyes for a moment.

"But you did promise that you would give it up," Akechi interjected. "In exchange for my aid."

"Like you could've done this on your own," Ryuji grumbled.

"Ryuji, that's enough." Ken sighed. "Akechi-san did fulfill his end of the bargain…so we must do the same. It is the honorable thing to do."

Honor… Akechi probably didn't even know the meaning of that.

"Thank you, Ken-san," Akechi said.

"But anyways…" Ren cleared his throat. "We'll meet up at LeBlanc at around six tomorrow evening. Then we'll head for the courthouse."

"Later than usual." Ken commented. "We stole Futaba's Treasure in the afternoon."

"And Father's, as soon as we could get to the headquarters after school." Haru added.

"We have to keep in mind about the people around." Ren reminded. "But anyways—get some rest, all of you."

"That's right!" Morgana seconded. "We need everyone at our best to—"

A phone suddenly rang.

"Ah, excuse me." Akechi then pulled out his phone. "Hello, this is Goro Akechi speaking."

Akechi then frowned.

"Ah, I see. It's really that urgent?" He sighed and gave a nod, "I understand. I'll be there as soon as I can."

"Police station?" Ren asked.

"Yes, unfortunately." Akechi nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow evening."

Even after the door slammed shut, it was silent. It seemed… finalized. The heist was really happening.

Haru broke the silence.

"Where do you think Akechi-kun's going? That felt like…" She trailed off with a frown.

"It does feel awfully convenient." Ken remarked, before shaking his head. "But no matter. It lets us talk in private."

Ryuji's face scrunched up in disgust.

"But to answer Haru's question…" he said, "if I gotta guess—prolly to go run off to his boss and brag 'bout how everything's set."

"Everything's all set on our end, isn't it?" Morgana asked. "The Treasure's been planted."

"Mm." Makoto nodded. "I stepped inside the Palace a couple days ago to plant it."

"Makoto…" Futaba said quietly.

Makoto gave her a tiny smile in thanks. She appreciated that Futaba supported her, even with her personal feelings about Sae.

"We're all stocked up on medicine and weapons." Ren then added, "And it just so happens that it cost an arm and leg so I had to cut corners somewhere. How unfortunate for Akechi."

"Someone's feeling petty," Anne teased lightly, nudging him in the side.

"Considering he's setting me up, I think my pettiness is warranted," Ren said haughtily.

They all heard a shaky sigh come from Haru.

"I'm nervous," Haru confessed, before pressing a hand against her chest. "I know that we've done all we can so we have the upper hand. And we even have Ken-kun's senpai helping. But…"

"They're here to make sure the plan succeeds. We still have to do our part," Ken stated.

This earned some uneasy looks. This was risky—she could not deny that. However, this was their best shot.

"We cannot drop our guard, even for a second. The end goal is for Ren's capture and then…" Yusuke trailed off grimly.

Anne bit her lip, looking down. Makoto tried not to wince. She really wished it didn't have come to this. She couldn't even begin to imagine how Anne would feel, having to allow her boyfriend to endanger himself like this.

"Let's not end on this on a sour note," Haru said gently before forcing a smile as she held up her tea cup. "Here's to us!"

"I'd drink to that!" Ryuji laughed.

"Nobody in this room can legally drink for another two years at the very least," Morgana grumbled out.

Ryuji glared at him. "Don't ruin the moment."

---

"Hey. How are ya holding up?"

Ren just smiled ruefully at Ryuji.

"Doing as well as I could, I guess."

Ryuji sighed, "This plan better work…we can't lose ya, RenRen."

"Since when are you a pessimist?" Morgana asked.

"I can't be nervous?" Ryuji demanded.

"When did I say that?" Morgana huffed out.

"That's enough, boys!" Anne chided, hands on her hips. Then she glanced at every one last of them. "But you know… it's been a while since it's just been the four of us."

Anne clasped both hands behind her back as she sighed, staring at the wall.

"This won't be the end, Lady Anne. We still need to take down Shido after this," Morgana said seriously.

"And get to the bottom of Mementos. We need to find out what exactly happened to you," Ren reminded with a smile.

"Ren…" The feline looked quite touched but shook it off and coughed. "Though Lady Anne is right—it has been a while. It's felt so long since we started the Phantom Thieves."

"Almost exactly seven months since we decided that we had to take down Kamoshida," she replied with a fond smile.

"Yeah." Ren closed his eyes. "But I wouldn't trade it for the world."

"Someone's feelin' corny." Ryuji slung an arm around Ren, but there was a big grin on Ryuji's face. "But this heist has gotta be our biggest one! Let's make it count!"

"Which means that you have to get your rest tonight!" Morgana said. "No staying up!"

"You see what I have to put up with?" Ren gestured to Morgana.

"Excuse me?!" Morgana sputtered. "How dare I be concerned about your health?"

"Once it hit nine o'clock, doesn't matter what I'm doing, 'Aren't you tired today? Let's go to sleep already.' Please…" Ren sighed.

"I do not sound like that!" Morgana squawked.

Ryuji and Anne both burst into laughter. Ryuji even keeled over, his arms wrapped around his stomach.

"Care to enlighten me then?" Ren tilted his head with a smirk.

"It's just—well—you need sleep okay?! Who knows what kind of habits you'd get into if it wasn't for me! You'd probably be drinking liters and liters of coffee!" Morgana exclaimed.

"I would not!" Ren protested.

"I dunno Ren. We may need to sign you up for CAA—Coffee Addict Anonymous." Anne teased.

Anne started to giggle and Ryuji joined her in chuckling at Ren's expense.

"This is the last time I'm ever making either of you coffee," Ren huffed.

Anne just blew him a kiss.

"You sure about that?" she asked with a wink.

"Ugh, you two are so gross." Ryuji said as he scrunched up his nose.

Morgana shook his head and gave a little sigh.

"I hope Makoto will be okay, though."

"Yusuke told me that he and Haru had some plans to drop by her apartment and check up on her in person," Ryuji stated. "I think outta all of us, they'd understand what she's feelin'."

Anne nodded vigorously.

"Definitely. But I'm gonna text her though. I can't imagine what it'd be like. My parents aren't always there but… they aren't warped like Madarame, Okumura, and Niijima were."

"It's not fun," Ryuji said flatly.

Ren sighed, "Ryuji…"

"But this ain't about me. This is about ensuring you'll make it out, buddy. That's the most important thing."

Ren couldn't help but crack a smile at that comment. He truly was lucky to have friends like them.

"I've been talking about our escape routes with Futaba," Morgana said. "She said it might be better to split into three groups. We don't know if Shido's men will try to go for us… Ren's gonna draw their eyes, but can't be too careful."

"I don't know about that…" Anne trailed off with a frown. "Wouldn't it be better if we stayed in one group?"

Ren frowned. That wouldn't work at all. Ryuji however beat him to it.

"That's not being stealthy though. And we don't exactly blend in the crowd," his best friend pointed out.

Ren winced as another thought came to him. He hoped that none of Shido's men would go after his friends. Hopefully they'd be satisfied just chasing after him.

"I'll just have to do some kind of crazy stunt to draw their attention, then," Ren stated. "The point is for me to get caught anyways."

"Don't joke about that!" Anne quickly snapped.

Her eyes suddenly glassy. Her hands were clenched tightly and a slight tremor ran through her body.

"Ren, this isn't a game. You could die!" she added in a whisper.

Ren cringed inwardly. He wasn't actually treating the situation like a game. He just wanted to lighten the mood. It was apparent that was a bad joke and it did nothing to lighten the mood.

"I'm sorry, Anne," he quickly apologized. "I was just trying ease some tensions; I know how serious this is. I promise I'm not taking this lightly."

"Ren, you've gotta be careful." Ryuji was extremely serious. "We can't lose ya."

His best friend's phone then went off. Ryuji checked it and glanced up at the rest of them.

"Bet my ma's been wondering how much longer I'll be 'til I get home." He then pocketed his phone. "I should head back now. Don't wanna worry her."

Morgana then looked to Anne and then at Ren. He cleared his throat.

"I'll stay with Futaba tonight. Let's head out together, Ryuji," he stated.

"Yeah of course. I'll take ya to Futaba and Boss before I head home."

Ren watched the two of them leave, before he sighed. He looked towards his girlfriend.

"I really am sorry…" he apologized again.

"Promise me that you won't do anything too reckless, Ren." Anne pleaded, suddenly clasping one of his hands in both of hers. "I'm worried enough already."

Ren sighed again before his hand slid against her cheek. "I promised you that I would come back to you. I don't intend to break it."

He then embraced her.

"You've had too many people leave you," he murmured as Anne rested her head against his chest. "And I don't intend on adding to it. I swear I'll make it out there alive. I won't let them break me."

"Ren…"

Anne looked like she was at a loss for words. Then she grabbed his blazer with both hands and dragged him down for a searing kiss. Ren's hands slid down to her waist, holding her close. Anne ran her fingers through his hair, giving one of his curls a small tug.

When they came up for air, Anne spoke. "I want to stay with you tonight."

"Oh?"

Anne rolled her eyes. "Well… I wouldn't say no to that. But I really just want you to hold me. I don't want to be alone. Not tonight."

He understood how she felt. And he would gladly accommodate. But a thought crossed his mind that caused Ren to raise an eyebrow.

"If you're going to sleep over, what are you going to sleep in, then?"

"Still mulling through my options." Anne gave him a playful smile. "I do have my tights and my undershirt. I'd be plenty warm since we'd be cuddling. Or I could steal some of your clothes. Wearing your boyfriend's clothes is supposed to be very comfortable. Or…" She winked. "I could always do what I did the night of my birthday."

"So many options… shall I convince you of doing my favorite option?" Ren said with a grin.

"Can you?" Anne challenged with a smirk.

"Shall I start the persuasion then?" He wiggled both his brows teasingly.

Anne's expression just screamed bring it. Ren just grinned. He was definitely going to enjoy this moment with Anne… hopefully it wouldn't be their last.

---

"Madame Sae Niijima, a great sinner of jealousy."

Makoto bowed her head, biting her lip, as Sae continued to read the calling card aloud.

"You have lost yourself amidst your obsession with success. For its sake, you are willing to promote injustice as justice. From… the Phantom Thieves of Hearts." Sae then looked to Makoto, her lips barely more than a thin line. "Just where did you find this, Makoto?"

"I found it in our mailbox," Makoto said, hesitantly meeting Sae's eyes. "They… They know where we live."

"I see." Sae's expression hardened. "To think that they would have the audacity to send me one!"

She crushed the calling card, crumpling it into a ball.

"They brand me a criminal and plan to change my heart!" she spat out, her voice dripping with venom. "How hypocritical of them! They're the crooks, not me! What absolute nonsense! They only care about disposing of those who are an inconvenience for them!"

And yet… her Palace had shown that was how Sae viewed her opponents. To hear Sae deride the Phantom Thieves was like a stab to Makoto's heart. Ren would have to reveal the truth to Sae eventually. She did not know how Sae would react to that kind of news and she hated it.

"Fine…" Sae dropped the calling card on the coffee table, her hands both forming fists. "I'll just have to catch them first! They won't brainwash me! They won't!"

Makoto tried not to wince, looking down at her lap. This was her chance to dig for some information…

"And when you do… you'll be interrogating them, won't you?"

Sae looked at her sharply. "I wouldn't think you'd approve of this, Makoto. You had thought, months ago, that Dad would approve of them."

"Well, I…" Makoto's mouth was suddenly dry. She swallowed hard. "I realized that you're right. Dad is dead. His opinion would not matter."

She prayed that Dad would forgive her for saying such things.

"And things have changed. I see things differently now."

Sae then sighed before running a hand through her hair. "Well, you're right. It'll be a top security interrogation room. Underground."

Yes! That meant their gambit was correct. Makoto had to fight to keep her face neutral.

"Unfortunately…" Sae brushed her bangs out of her face before rising to her feet, "my time will be limited. But I will do whatever it takes to make them divulge their secrets!"

She then walked for the door, only to pause as she passed Makoto.

"But…" Sae shook her head, resting her hand on top of the sofa. "Let's not focus on all the negatives."

"Sis…?"

"Makoto, I know that I haven't had the opportunity to spend time with you as an older sister should." Sae looked down to her. "I was thinking… after this case has been resolved—we should go on a trip to the hot springs. Just the two of us. I'm sure with this case, I would be able to secure the time off. How does that sound?"

"Sis…" Makoto once again swallowed hard before she grabbed for Sae's hand. "P-Please remember that I'm always on your side!" she blurted out. "I won't let anyone hurt you! I-I promise!"

Sae was silent for a moment. She looked perplexed, only for her to smile softly. "You've always been a strange one, Makoto."

But then Sae's free hand settled on top of Makoto's head, gently stroking it.

"But I really wouldn't trade you for anyone in the world."

Sae gave her one last smile, before bidding her good night. She had to head back to the office. And she planned to inform her superior about the calling card.

Once the door closed, Makoto leaned against the sofa, suddenly trembling. Everything was set now. Sae was on guard, allowing her Treasure to form. Makoto couldn't help but wonder what her Treasure was exactly.

Her hands… they wouldn't stop shaking. Makoto squeezed her eyes shut, before curling her hands into fists. So much was riding on this. Would it be all for naught? The idea of watching from the sidelines, helpless once again, terrified her. So much.

Her phone started to buzz. Makoto's eyes widened as she saw just what it was.

Messages… from all her friends.

[Haru Okumura]: Mako-chan… don't lose faith. It won't be a repeat of Father. I swear it.

[Ryuji Sakamoto]: i won't lie

[Ryuji Sakamoto]: i'm not your sis's biggest fan

[Ryuji Sakamoto]: but i'll support ya all the way, i swear it

[Anne Takamaki]: Makoto… are you okay? I know this has been hard on you. I can't imagine how you feel… But I'm here for you okay? Always.

[Ren Amamiya]: I know this has been crazily stressful. But don't lose heart

[Ren Amamiya]: And… if you need to talk about it, I'm just a phone call away.

[Ren Amamiya]: I'll hear you out, even if I don't… think too highly of prosecutors

[Futaba Sakura]: I'm not so good with words. But if you need to talk about anything… I'll try to listen.

[Ken Amada]: Makoto… have faith. You believe that your sister still has a sense of justice. But… you need to believe in yourself, as well. You're much stronger than you give yourself credit for.

[Yusuke Kitagawa]: I know you must feel terribly conflicted about this, Makoto. Facing a loved one… is not easy. Believe me… I know. But do not forgot that you aren't alone. We stand together.

She wasn't alone. She had her friends to lean on, even if some of them did not have a high opinion of Sae. She was not the same girl she was five months ago. She was no longer adrift, unsure in what she wanted to pursue. She had friends—incredibly loyal friends. She knew that she would fight for justice—fight tooth and nail for it. She would show Sae what true justice was.

Makoto felt a sudden peace wash over her. She felt calm… and confident. She was ready to show Sae what she was made of.

Thou art I… and I am thou. Thine resolve hast transformed me… and hast given me a new form. I am…

"Anat," Makoto breathed out.

She could feel it. Johanna had taken on a new form. She felt… stronger.

Then she heard sudden knocking. Makoto couldn't help but frown. Could Sae have forgotten her keys? That was oddly careless of her, but she did have a lot on her mind. She got up from the couch to answer the door.

Makoto's eyes widened. "Haru? Yusuke?"

"Hello, Mako-chan." Haru smiled hesitantly at her. "U-Um, Yusuke-kun and I were just—"

"We were concerned about you," Yusuke finished for her. "I know we could have called you but…"

"It just felt impersonal to just call," Haru added. "I—I hope you don't mind."

Haru really thought that Makoto would mind? It was so kind of them to do this.

Makoto couldn't help but smile at her two friends. "Not at all," she told them. "Why don't you come in? I can make you some tea."

"Some tea would be lovely, Mako-chan," Haru said with a smile. "Yusuke-kun?"

"I won't say no," Yusuke chuckled.

Makoto stepped aside, letting her friends remove their shoes before she ushered them to the living room. She let them settle down on the couch together before she headed for the kitchen. She started the kettle before she rummaged around for some snacks. It was past dinner time but she did have to be a good host. Besides that, Yusuke's stomach seemed to be a bottomless pit. She doubted that Yusuke would turn down free food.

Though she had to wonder if Yusuke and Haru had a similar conversation before they went to steal Okumura's Treasure. After all, Yusuke had been so worried for Haru before. A part of Makoto wished that she had reached to Haru before too…

The tea kettle started to whistle, making Makoto jump. She poured out the boiling water into three cups. She then assembled the mugs and plate of snacks onto a tray and carried it out. She set it on the coffee table.

Haru then clasped her hands together in her lap as Makoto sat down. "How are you feeling, Mako-chan?" she asked tentatively.

"I still feel incredibly nervous," Makoto confessed, placing a hand on her chest.

"Why am I hearing a but in that?" Yusuke asked before selecting a mug and taking a careful sip.

"I want to believe in Sis," Makoto said quietly. She took her own mug of tea, blowing on it before drinking. "She admitted to me in a way that she was neglecting me… Maybe it's not too late for us. And I know everyone's supporting me, even if they don't like Sis. Mishima-kun changed his heart, all on his own. I will help Sis change her heart. I want her to see that this is not the path she should follow."

"Think nothing of it," Yusuke dismissed. "We are your friends, after all. And I must admit… your situation does hit a little close to home."

"What about you, Yusuke-kun?" Haru asked gently.

Pain flashed in Yusuke's eyes for a moment. He was all tensed up. But then he took in a shuddering breath.

"I felt… incredibly anxious, I must confess. Madarame was the only parent I could remember. I called him Sensei but… I saw him as my father. I remember sitting in his lap as he sat in front of an easel. He guided my hand while teaching me the various techniques of art. I remember aspiring to be just like him."

A mirthless laugh escaped him.

"What a joke," he added sadly.

"Yusuke…" Makoto swallowed hard.

Yusuke had never shared anything like this before.

"Yusuke-kun, you're worth ten—no, a hundred—Madarames!" Haru said fiercely, her grasp on her own mug tightening. "You're kind and intelligent and your art is phenomenal! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise."

"Haru's right. You're a wonderful friend, Yusuke. And strong. I can't imagine what it was like for you to go through all that," Makoto seconded.

"Mm-hm, Yusuke-kun was the one who pushed for the two of us to come see you." Haru said.

Yusuke's cheeks tinged a slight pink.

"You're exaggerating, Haru. Besides, I know how much saving Niijima-san means to you…"

Makoto flashed Yusuke a small smile before she turned to Haru.

"Haru…" Makoto began tentatively. "Just how are you doing?"

Haru closed her eyes for a moment.

"I would be lying if I said that I'm ready to move on from Father's death. But… I have things to do. I want his killer to be brought to justice. I can't mope around and wallow in my grief. That won't solve anything. I know I have my friends. There are things for me to do. And you and Niijima-san—you two still have a chance. I want to make it happen. No matter what."

"Y-You…" Makoto hastily wiped at her wet eyes. "You're so kind, Haru…"

Haru let out a nervous giggle.

"I think you're the one exaggerating, Mako-chan."

"I have to agree with Makoto, Haru," Yusuke declared. "You are both strong and kind."

Haru blushed at the compliment before quickly composing herself.

"But… I'm glad that you feel confident about this, Mako-chan. To be honest, I was a bit worried," she admitted.

"Thank you. Your support means a lot to me. All of you…" Makoto smiled.

"It's nothing, Makoto. That's what friends are for, no?" Yusuke replied after shaking his head.

"Of course." Makoto nodded before looking to him. "And um… if you ever need to talk about Madarame—Yusuke, I'd be happy to listen."

Yusuke blinked before giving a small nod.

"Thank you, Makoto." Then he pulled out his phone, a thoughtful frown appeared on his face. "But we best get going. The trains will stop running soon and I really should escort Haru back first."

"That's not necessary, Yusuke-kun!" Haru protested.

"Nonsense. It's the chivalrous thing to do," Yusuke insisted.

Makoto couldn't help but smile to herself as the two of them bickered lightly. Perhaps there was something brewing between the two of them. They would be sweet together.

Not to mention, it'd give Ren and Futaba a new target. She silently chuckled to herself at that thought.

She saw Yusuke and Haru to the door. The door closed with a soft click. Makoto let her eyes drift over to the family picture that hung on the wall. Their last family portrait, before her mom had died.

Dad's death day was tomorrow. But she couldn't visit his grave. Not with how crazy tomorrow was going to be. Dad would understand, right?

Makoto's phone suddenly went off. She answered the call without checking the ID.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Makoto."

"Oh! Ken…" Makoto tucked a strand behind her ear. "Is something the matter?"

"No, nothing like that…" He trailed off a moment. "I just wanted to check up on you. I would've visited you in person but Shinjiro-san said that you'd be fine and that I 'shouldn't run to your side all the damn time'."

Makoto couldn't help but giggle softly.

"You're really terrible at imitating his voice, you know," she teased.

"So…?" Ken prompted.

"I'm fine, Ken." She said softly. "Everyone… they messaged me. We'll face Sis together and we'll make sure that Ren gets out there alive. Especially since Akihiko-san and Chie-san are backing us up…I know that we shouldn't be cocky but I feel confident about tomorrow. We will succeed."

"I'm glad. But I was thinking...we will be meeting up at six in Leblanc. We would have a few hours in between that and school ending. You should go visit your parents' graves. Tomorrow is the day your dad died, right?"

Makoto's grip on her phone tightened.

"You remember?" she breathed out.

"Of course I do," Ken answered as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "You remembered the day my mom died."

"I-I didn't expect…" She trailed off for a moment. "But we probably have preparations to do."

"Ren has the equipment covered. We have the fake Treasure planted. There's nothing huge that we have to take care of." A soft sigh, as he said gently, "Makoto…I think it would be good for you. Especially since your sister has veered so far from her previous goal and ideals. Ideals that your father taught you."

Makoto bit her lip.

"Okay," she whispered. "Will you come with me?"

Ken was quiet for a moment.

"If you want me to."

"I do."

"I will then," he promised. "I'll see you tomorrow at school, then. Good night, Makoto."

"Good night, Ken."

---

And the preparations for the heist are finally complete! This really did turn out to be a long chapter, though. It just kept running away from me! But at least I'm making up for the longer wait! But anyways! Next chapter will cover the heist and the escape from the Palace. I'm really looking forward to covering it!

Many of you have correctly predicted that Ken and Akechi are cousins (genetically half-brothers, since their moms are twin sisters). I dropped several hints to this—noting their physical resemblance several times, mentioning Ken's mom has an estranged twin sister, while noting that Ken has a strong resemblance to her. Ken's mother is also mentioned to have Akechi's coloring. Akechi also mentions that his mother had a twin sister. Fun fact: Ken and Akechi canonically have the same blood type—AB.

I know that several people are fans of the theory that Ken is Shido's son (especially amongst my reader base), but I'm personally not a fan of the concept. The game mentions that Akechi has a striking resemblance to his mother, so it doesn't make sense for his and Ken's physical resemblance to be explained by Shido being their father.

And some trivia! Ken's mother's name is Hikari. Hikari means light. Akechi's mother's name is Tsukiko, which means moon child. I chose Tsukiko specifically, since light is associated with day and naturally moon is associated with night.

But Akechi talks about how he wanted new personal records when he approached Shido in his narrative. Part of it is because I think Ken would've questioned things if his mother's maiden name is Akechi. Especially since people keep mentioning that he looks like Akechi. Another reason is that I can see Akechi wanting a new identity and styling himself after the Japanese Sherlock Holmes.

As usual, big shoutout to my beta, angelrin89! She actually pulled an all nighter to get this edited so many thanks to her!

Kei made a cameo, to answer the question how the Shadow Ops know of the incidents of P1/P2. That's about as much as you'll get with P1/P2 in this fic, though. Thank you to my friend, turtleeden, for helping me out with making sure that Kei was IC!

And lastly, I mentioned this during my last update for the PQ2 fic but… Ace in the Hole has a TV Tropes page! You can find it here: tvtropes pmwiki/ pmwiki. php/ FanFic/ AceInTheHolePersona5. Shoutout to hirowriter for creating it in the first place! Feel free to edit and add to it, as you see fit!