SG138: Well, I am pretty sure if they worked this into the actual game they would have tweaked mechanics a bit
StevieBond: Well, Futaba is awesome.
TheHyrulianHero: Always happy to see new reviewers. Only one more OC party member.
Neo Infinity: I feel like that's a bit more of a... you problem. And a small thing we hae been working with, hence the Social Link happening in the background.
Xerzo LotCN: I am basically done responding to you since you do not seem to understand what I am saying about your "reaction Reviews"
Temporal King: The entire palace called on referneces to Frankenstein. Was always the intention.
Dr Pest: They have already delt with Medjed. And they where never brought in because of Ren being very stealthy this time.
Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:
Dr Pest: Grey and I like to mix things up a little with our stories.
Tony Anderson: It's also thematically appropriate; an egotistical doctor doesn't want 'anyone beneath him' working on him.
Temporal King: Not played SMGT, but I'm guessing it is a pain to fight him.
Neo Infinity: We've got plans for Haru, don't worry about her.
TheHyrulianHero: Glad to see you enjoying the story. As for Valentine's Day? laughs demonically Just wait.
StevieBond: Yeah, Futaba is the best gremlin.
adamse0530: Glad you've been enjoying the story so far. And yeah, the harem is growing slowly and right.
SG138: Yeah, we had to change some things for this Palace. But don't worry, we've got plans coming up for the next chapter and palace.
Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.
Co-written by GhostKaiser23
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Finally here for another chapter.
I really wish that the last chapter was being posted today, would have been PERFECT for Halloween.
But anyway, I hope you all enjoy~!
Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 50
Falling To Darkness, Bonds of Light
It was the following day, the treasure was stolen and the Phantom Thieves were victorious. The group were currently in school as they couldn't miss this day... but Tae was in her clinic. And thinking about what Oyamada told her. 'She is alive.' Was he telling the truth? He had no reason to lie, not to her when his heart was changed, or going to be changed.
"God, I hope this worked." She prayed. Because of the news that was playing on today, Tae didn't want to show her face. It was getting too much because of that bombshell Oyamada dropped on her. But the sound of her clinic's door opening caught her attention. "Hello?" She asked, walking out of her make shift operating room. Walking around the back entrance to get behind the counter.
Walking in was someone Tae hadn't seen in a long time.
Ashen-brown hair with hairclips on the right-hand side, brown eyes, wearing a black suit and black turtleneck shirt, a silver necklace and heeled black shoes. "Hello, Tae."
"Sae? I... it's been years." Tae blinked in shock.
"It has. You look... Good." Sae nodded with a smile
"And you look... Boring." Tae said without thinking, but with a small smile
"Unlike some people I know, we prosecutors require to dress professionally. And punk/goth was also last decade." Sae shot back without hesitation
Tae let out a small giggle as she tucked her hair behind her ear. "I found my look that works."
"I saw the news." Sae admitted. "When it shows your face, I just... I got worried."
"How'd you find me?" Tae asked as she sat at her desk
"My sister said that a friend of hers gets some very medicine in a 'clinic hidden in Yongen-Jaya'. It didn't take me long to figure it out." Sae answered, sitting down next to her. "And when she said the place was run by my 'old doctor' it was kind of obvious."
"How have you been?" They asked at the same time "Sorry, you first." They continued to speak at the same time, their voices overlapping
Tae rose her hands. "I've been fine. My clinic has been successful for a while now. A lot of good patients."
"Not frequent I hope." Sae joked lightly.
"No, not really...The news. You said something about the news?" Tae asked.
"Oh yeah, it was on earlier. Let me show you." Sae answered, getting her phone out to show a recording of the news broadcast.
"Earlier today, we have been approached by the Chief of Staff of East Sinjuku's University hospital, Dr Shoichi Oyamada. Here is his statement that he 'must get off his chest'." A news reporter spoke as they showed the report.
"I, Dr Shoichi Oyamada, have come to confess. Over the years, I have been stealing credit from different doctors during my tenure as Chief of Staff. Most notably Dr Tae Takemi, who I slandered her name and reputation because of her dedication and talent." Dr Oyamada spoke as he looked heartbroken and guilt-ridden for what he had done. Camera flashes took pictures of the disgraced doctor as he began to pour his heart out; the patients he denied, the doctors he's discredited and stole from, and the list continued to grow for all his sins.
"Dr Takemi, I am so sorry. For slandering your name. Your reputation. Your work. You are a better doctor than I am. I can only beg for your forgiveness while I pay for my crimes." He looked at the camera, showing his blood-shot eyes from his previous night crying as his voice was cracking from guilt.
As the video stopped, Tae's eyes began to water a little. She was apologised to. Her tarnished name could be recognised as a legitimate doctor again.
"Are you okay?" Sae asked as she saw her tear up.
"It's nothing. Just something in my eye." She lied as she wiped her eyes.
Sae nodded as she knew that Tae would be obviously emotional. "Dr Oyamada mentioned something in another video; something about a young girl being alive? Does that mean anything to you?"
"Yeah, it does. She was a patient of mine who had the same incurable disease I tried to cure before. But I was closer this time." Tae explained.
"Oh my god, that's completely messed up." Sae frowned as she heard that.
"'Completely messed up'? Is that technical legal speak, Ms Prosecutor?" Tae chuckled.
"Oh, I could show you SO many 'legal terms'." Sae smirked
The two smiled as they remained there for some time, happy to see each other after so long.
Ding
Ding
"Hi, Ms Takemi-?" Makoto entered as she was followed by Ren. "Sis?"
"Makoto? What are you doing here?" Sae asked as she saw them.
"We were just here for a check-up." She answered.
"Makoto, are you going to introduce me?" Ren asked, seeing Sae... though he knew who she was. She came over to LeBlanc for a cup of coffee from time to time.
"Oh, yes. This is my sister, Sae Niijima. Sae, this is Ren. He lives in LeBlanc, the cafe-" Makoto explained.
"Oh, I know. We've met on occasion." Sae answered. "Nice to see you out of that apron."
"Nice to meet you too, Ms Niijima." Ren responded. "Formally."
"Wait, you two know each other?!" Makoto gasped
"A bit." he chuckled "Hi boss." he waved at Tae
"Boss?" Sae asked
"Yes, he's my 'little guinea pig', helping out here whenever he can." Tae answered.
"Your what?" Sae asked with a frown
"Ah, should I not have said that?" Tae flinched.
"I help Tae with some medicines. I've been getting healthier." Ren reassured as he set up his lie "Really I am a glorified notes taker and vile holder, slash equipment fetcher. In exchange she's been giving me a lot of health tips and has been keeping a close eye on my general health."
"Oh, I see." Sae answered, hearing Ren's 'explanation'. "Well, as long as it's nothing... unethical."
"Of course not." Ren 'grinned'. The silver haired beauty looking her deep in the eye for several long seconds before she nodded in acceptance
"Well, alright then. Makoto, I'll see you back home. Okay?" Sae asked.
"Y-Yes sis." she squeaked nervously
Sae nodded as she headed out. "Dr Takemi."
"Prosecutor Niijima." Tae responded, watching her leave. As Sae left, both Makoto and Ren looked at Tae, who was looking at Sae with a gentle sigh.
"... Have you met my sister before?" Makoto asked.
"You could say that. We went to college together." Tae smirked. "She's my ex."
Both Ren and Makoto looked at Tae in shock... more so Makoto than Ren. "Wh-what?" She squeaked a little, processing this new revelation.
"Ah, that explains a bit." Ren admitted.
"Oh my god... I never knew." Makoto sat down in an empty chair as she was coming to terms with this.
"It was all private and 'hush-hush', Makoto." Tae explained. "What happens in college and that old shower."
"I mean't that she was into-WAIT! STOP! I don't wanna know!" Makoto screamed
"I do!" Futaba grinned, poking her head around the corner
"Gah!" Ren and Makoto jumped as they heard Futaba.
"It begins at the brisk month of January." Tae began, teasing the two. "I met this cute guy, who was dating this girl and wanted to experiment with polyamery..."
"La, la, la! Come on, I don't need to hear this." Makoto begged as she literally covered her ears
"No, no, let this happen." Futaba smirked.
"You guys done traumatising the Prez yet?" Ryuji hummed as he walked in with his hands in his pocket, the others following
"How long have you been there?" Ren deadpanned.
"Not long, we all came at the same time." Ann responded.
"Ah, right. Today was your school day." Tae chuckled as she saw them.
"This is so embarrassing," Makoto mumbled as she was put on the spot because of her sister.
"Why?" Tae asked with a smirk
"We're talking about my sister's past. I don't want to know what she did." Makoto mumbled.
"We do, let's hear it." Ryuji answered.
"Ryuji! ...Yeah, me too." Shiho gasped, before smirking.
"Trust me, she is MUCH more wild than you'd expect." Tae winked "So... Why are you all here?"
"Well, we wanted to check up on you. See if you're okay since yesterday." Ann answered.
"Defeating your own personal enemy must feel cathartic." Yusuke added. "It was for most of us. The emotional relief of it all. But it would be even greater for you."
"Yeah, it has been." Tae admitted.
"Plus, it's time to celebrate another job well done!" Morgana grinned
"Oh? Is that right? What do you do to celebrate after a 'job well done'?" Tae asked.
"Ooh, we could go for some ramen!" Ryuji offered.
"Maybe some curry." Futaba added.
"Or we could go to that fancy all you can eat buffet restaurant we went to that one time." Ann added.
"That place WAS good." Morgana purred
"Sounds interesting." Kawakami spoke as she entered the small clinic
"Gyah-ha!" Ryuji leapt back in fear. "M-Ms Kawakami!"
"You know, my clinic isn't a meeting place." Tae deadpanned.
"Sorry, Ms Takemi." They apologised.
"Easest place to find you." Kawakami pointed out "Besides, I am pretty sure I'm part of this to?" she winked
"Are you? I didn't see YOU crawling around hospital vents." Tae joked
"You can call me a part timer." Kawakami shrugged
"Part timer?" the other adult of the Phantom Thieves asked with a raised eyebrow
"Being a teacher is busy work." the brown haired teacher sighed, adjusting her yellow jumper "I'm not always gonna be available to help these kids out. I'll try to be when I can, but life is life. You know?"
"I do." Tae hummed with a thoughtful look
"So, since we've got the team together, perhaps we can go celebrate now?" Morgana asked.
"I think you've all earned that much." Ms Kawakami answered.
*Time Skip*
It was the following day, Ren felt relieved that Dr Oyamada had confessed his crimes and how headed to prison. He was... well exhausted after the fun night of hanging out. "Hmm...What a night." He stretched, glad he had the day off school
"We ate like royalty." Morgana yawned.
"You did." Ren chuckled as he walked out of LeBlanc, where a familiar doctor was waiting "Tae?"
"Hey hot shot." she chuckled "Something I wanted to speak to you about."
"You're not gonna try and break up again, are you?" Ren joked
"No, no, not that." she laughed
"Then what's up?" Morgana asked "And should I be here?"
"Yes, you are fine Morgana." Tae nodded, giving him a quick scratch under the chin
"Mrrrow~!" he purred happily, his tail swaying happily behind her back and forth behind him while hiseyes fluttered closed
"So... what do you want to talk about?" Ren asked in worry
"Seacole." Tae said simply "Like Sadayo, I am busy. I can not join you guys all the time. I am an adult, with a job. I can't afford to spend my time in the metaverse every other day or whenever I am needed at the drop of a hat."
"Don't worry, I get it." Ren nodded with a smile "So, you'll be 'on call'?"
"Yeah. On call." she nodded with a soft smile
"That sounds fair to me." He answered. "Thanks for letting me know."
"Of course. Hey, don't leave the day too long." She responded.
"I won't." He gave her a quick kiss to the cheek before he walked away, the two giving a small wave "Well... Time for another day at work." Ren joked
Vrr
Vrr
"Oh, it's Yusuke." Ren blinked as his phone rang. "Hello?"
"Ah, Ren. Thank you for answering, I need your help. It's to do with my art." Yusuke asked through the phone.
"Sure. The usual place, at the train station?"
"Of course, thank you." Yusuke answered as they hung up.
"What's up?" Morgana asked
"Well, it seems that he's having an artist's worry." Ren answered. "Might be to do with that competition."
"You think you'll have enough time today?" Morgana asked.
"I'll have to make time." He responded as he patted the bag. "Trust me, I got this." Ren grinned
"If you say so." Morgana stretched before jumping into his travel pack
*Time skip*
"Thank you for meeting with me, Ren. I truly appreciate it." Yusuke spoke as they approached a restaurant.
"No problem, but he wanted to meet you here?" Ren asked.
"Yes, Mr Kawanabe wanted to meet again." Yusuke nodded as they entered and saw the older gentleman waiting patiently.
"Ah, Mr Kitagawa. Glad you could make it." Mr Kawanabe smiled as he saw the pair walk in.
"Thank you for inviting me, Mr Kawanabe. I hope you don't mind that I brought my friend." Yusuke responded.
"No, not at all. Please sit. I've ordered your portion as well. Please, eat freely." He responded. As the two sat down, Yusuke looked at the art critic. "Before that, there is something I would like to ask. Just... who are you?"
"Hmm, an interesting question. My work involves gallery management, but my hobbies are diverse. The foundation is but one of those hobbies. Broadly speaking, we're responsible for scouting and nurturing talented youth involving the art world." Mr Kawanabe informed.
'Wow, okay.' Ren thought to himself.
"We offer free scholarships, mediate study abroad programs and we also connect with young artists to customers... At a time, even Madarame participated in our organisation." He continued, with the last part being.. .solemn.
"M-Madarame?" Yusuke asked, holding back his contempt for the man.
"Indeed. A good many benefited from his time working with us. We were aware of the dark rumours, but we never could have seen his confession coming. I suppose it's likely that he was deceiving us that whole time." Mr Kawanabe frowned, feeling guilty about being associated with such a horrible person.
"Madarame... to think I once relied on his teachings, called my mentor." Yusuke frowned, leaning onto the desk. "This is all because of him. I cannot view paintings with a pure heart."
"Hmm?" Mr Kawanabe asked.
"In the past, simply the desire to paint led me to seek beauty. But now, I find myself constantly weighed down by the search for awards or the praise of others. An ugly attachment has fastened itself upon my work... I can no longer paint the way how I used to. My art is... tainted." Yusuke tried to explain
Kawanabe nodded gently in understanding. "I see. However, it would be wasteful to see your talent dry up. Our foundation would gladly support you. Not as a student of the infamous Madarame, but as someone with those looks. There is a definitely market for you. We'll sell you as the 'tragic, handsome artist'."
"What do you mean?" Ren asked as he heard that term.
"As he said. I am wondering the same thing." Yusuke responded.
"Exactly as it sounds. Having your work stolen by Madarame, losing a place to live, hungry for food. That unstable air about you makes for the perfect tragedy." Mr Kawanabe explained. "A story like yours will sell, even if people don't understand art."
'Jeez, is this guy working with painting or a TV producer?' Morgana thought.
"A... story?" Yusuke whispered as he heard that.
"If you don't have anyone in a modern climate, nobody will even mention your name." Kawanabe explained. "Don't worry, we'll handle the details. But in return, you must sell your work through my gallery. We will take a mediation fee, but you'll be granted a steady revenue and a nice customer base as well."
As Yusuke turned his attention towards Mr Kawanabe, he saw something... not the kind words of a man who wanted to help Yusuke put his name on the artistic map... but a faceless shadow, whose only features were that of an illuminated smile and trickster eyes, just seeing for some new impressionable artist to take the offer and lose their life. It reminded Yusuke... of him. "Do not mock me." He spoke slowly as he got up to his feet. "'Tragedy'? 'Looks'? 'Story'? Those have nothing to do with art! In the end, it's all about money! That which taints pure beauty!"
Mr Kawanabe frowned as he looked at Yusuke. "How immature." He sighed slowly.
"Excuse me?" Yusuke asked, sounding genuinly offended
"It seems you haven't learned anything after all. You're not looking at reality objectively." He explained. "Is wealth really that horrible?" He asked genuinely. "And beyond that, how long will you chase these illusions of yours? 'Purity'? 'Art'?"
"Sh-shut your mouth! I reject your offer!" Yusuke snapped at him.
Mr Kawanabe frowned and patted the table. "I thought you of all people would have the resolve to use art to make a living."
"I have that resolve! However, I also believe such a life should only come via proper assessment!" Yusuke answered.
'Oh jeez, do I have to step in soon?' Ren thought to himself.
"Hmm? In that case, I have an opportunity for you. My foundation will soon be holding a competition for young artists around the nation. The prize shall be our support. We'll bring customers from around Japan to see the next great talent. There will be a great deal of pressure on you, should you enter. Or... are you too afraid?" Mr Kawanabe asked.
"What did you say?" Yusuke asked incredulously.
"I wonder if you have what it takes to withstand skill-based assessment of that magnitude. I look forward to finding out." He answered. "Now then, it seems there is no use in further discussion." As he turned to the bartender. "Please send the bill to my office." As he got up and began to leave. "Mr Kitagawa."
Yusuke looked on in shock as he sat down. "That avaricious bastard! Why is it that all artists talk about money, money, money? Has the true meaning of art been lost?"
"Well... money is important." Ren admitted, albeit a little awkwardly.
"'Important'?! It is worthless! All money should disappear from the face of the world!" Yusuke answered angrily. "It only serves to destroy beauty. Those with artistic sensibilities would never worship that filth!" But then... he began to calm down. "However... I would starve to death without money. Passion alone can fill my heart, but not my stomach. What a troubling predicament." He shook his head and looked at Ren. "I'm glad you came with me today. You're a soothing force in my life."
"No problem." Ren answered as he felt his bond with Yusuke grow.
EMPEROR: RANK 7
"So... want some sushi?" Ren asked, giving an offer to his friend to try and cheer him up "My treat."
"Please." He answered.
*Time Skip*
Ren felt refreshed after that meal out, but now he was going to go and find another friend who might want to hang out as he walked past the arcade...and thought of Shinji. Had he been okay since they last met? He headed to the Arcade while having time to spare during the day.
Going through the arcade, Ren saw Shinji heading to his favourite game. "Hey, Ren! What's up?"
"Just passing by." Ren answered.
"Cool. Got a second gun, want to go a round?" Shinji asked
Ren smirked, picking up the gun controller. "Sure."
"The games are on me today, try and keep up." He chuckled.
"Okay, if you insist." Ren smirked.
"Don't worry, I've got a lot of money on me today." He answered, making Ren blink in shock. "Now, let's get into it. Get into your stance!"
'Oh crap!' Ren thought as he saw the game begin.
The game immediately began, with Shinji commenting Ren's speed.
Seconds turned to minutes, as Shinji was firing about. 'Shinji's playing erratically.' Ren thought to himself as they played the game.
After a few rounds of playing the game, Ren and Shinji were sitting down at the front, taking a few minutes for themselves... as a small group of kids around Shinji's age walked up. "Hey!" The oldest called out, he was wearing a red and black flannel shirt and green three-quarter-length trousers. "Give him his money back."
"What the-? J-just ignore them." Shinji looked away, looking at Ren.
Ren looked at Shinji in confusion... but by the looks of the two other kids, they looked upset.
"Oda! You took his lunch money, didn't you? He forced you into a battle, right?" The flannel shirt kid asked a younger kid.
The boy on the right, who wore glasses nodded slowly. "Y-yeah. And when I lost... he told me I owed him money."
Ren looked at Shinji in horror. Was Shinji becoming a bully for money now?
"Who do you think you are?" The flannel shirt boy asked, pointing at Shinji.
Shinji scowled a little and turned to him. "The King."
"Huh?" The older boy asked.
"I didn't take it. I earned it. That money is for my war fund, to help me get stronger." Shinji answered.
Another boy, wearing a star-patterned blue shirt looked at him in confusion. "What the hell does that mean? You're crazy, just like your mum." That caught Shinji's attention as he stepped forward. "I heard your mum was being weird at a restaurant the other day too. A waiter caught her leaving without paying, she said that she 'just forgot'."
Shinji's hands began to close tighter around his bag strap as he was told this.
"She even snapped at the manager and told him his employees need to be 'better trained'." The kid continued.
"Sh-shut up!" Shinji snapped.
The flannel shirt kid spoke back. "My mum says that your mum is a bully! And you're just like her."
"Shut up! Shut up! Shut up! I'm the strongest! The Best! The King!" Shinji stomped and yelled at them. "If you want your money back, you'll have to beat me!"
"You're not making any sense. Somehow, some way, you're gonna pay us back!" The older boy glared at Shinji. "Come on, guys." He turned with the two boys to leave.
"... The only thing you're good at is playing games." The younger boy frowned at Shinji, almost pitying him.
"H-Huh?" Shinji blinked.
"You're like a bad guy in a movie." The kid continued. "I hope the Phantom Thieves get you!"
Shinji's eyes widened as his body went slack as he was stunned by that boy's comment. "M-Me? The bad-guy? Really? Even though I'm strong?"
Ren looked at Shinji and frowned, seeing this kid have such a one-eighty in his life. Realising that he was bullied to being a bully.
"I'm... not a bad guy. Am I?" Shinji asked Ren as he looked heartbroken and fearful.
"You're acting like one." Ren answered, having seen this from others. And knowing what his little buddy needed to hear right now
"N-no, I'm not. I mean, I won. I got stronger, just like the Phantom Thieves." Shinji mumbled, having a crisis of self. "That makes me a bad guy?"
Ren sighed as he looked at the kid, realising that he on his own was becoming the thing he hated.
"I... guess, I already knew that." Shinji admitted, taking his hat off. "I felt bad, even when I was winning. I don't want to do it again. I don't want to be a bad guy." He choked up as he sat down on the chair.
"I believe in you." Ren reassured, putting his hand on Shinji's shoulder reassuringly.
"Thanks. D-Do you... hate me now?" He asked sadly.
Ren shook his head. "Not at all. You made a mistake. But you caught it."
"Really? Like, really, really you don't?" Shinji asked as Ren put his hat back on his head. "I don't want you to hate me too. The Phantom Thieves are strong because they face strong enemies, right? Beating weak opponents... that's bullying. That's what bad guys do. I was wrong. Thanks, Ren. I don't think I would've realised this on my own."
Ren smiled, seeing Shinji picking himself up again and trying to be better.
Tower Rank 6
"I'm gonna head home now, I-I need time to think about what I did." Shinji admitted.
"Okay, stay safe." Ren nodded.
*Time Skip*
"What a day..." Ren sighed as he left the arcade and looked at the time, it was mentally taxing on him to balance his personal life and helping those he knew needed help. His friends, the people in the city...his family.
Buzz
"Huh? Iwaei?" He blinked
"Yoh, kid. I need your help." Iwaei spoke through.
"Y-You need my help? With what exactly?" Ren asked cautiously.
"I need a person to be escorted. Simple mission, right?" Iwaei responded.
"Yeah, simple." He nodded back.
"Good, come to my store. I'll give you more info here." He answered. "Don't make me wait. It's important."
click
"Wow, looks like you're getting your fill today, right?" Morgana commented.
"Yeah, it does." Ren sighed, a little worried, but knew Iwaei was a good man. An 'escort mission'... shouldn't be too hard?
As Ren headed to Airsoft, he saw that there were fewer items on the shelves, must've been a good day for him.
"Hey, Kid." Iwaei spoke as he leaned back in his chair, wearing his grey pin-striped hat with yellow ear defenders, his black turtleneck sweater, a long grey coat with a red peace symbol on the left hem of his coat, simple blue jeans and black leather boots. He was a middle-aged man with short grey hair and grey-coloured eyes, faint noticeable stubble, sideburns and earrings. A tattoo of a grey-coloured gecko is on the left side of his neck near the back.
"Hi, Iwaei. How's it going?" Ren asked.
"Big blowout. Some kids are getting into modelling, so I can't complain." Iwaei answered. "But, to business. The person you'll be escorting..." He spoke seriously as he looked at Ren. "Its Kaoru."
"Your son?" Ren blinked as he was relieved.
"Yes, get dinner with him at the diner in Shibuya." Iwaei ordered. "Now, go. I gotta go take care of some business with Tsuda."
"Sure, no problem." Ren answered.
"I'll be there after I handle that, see you soon." Iwaei nodded.
*Time Skip*
Ren had brought Kaoru to the diner, there the two were waiting for Iwaei, with Kaoru getting a little impatient... but more stemming from worry. Ren knew Kaoru was a good student and a good kid. He was about his age after all.
"My dad's really late, huh? He's the one who asked us here too." Kaoru commented gently. He was wearing his faded blue long-sleeved buttoned shirt with his dark blue sweater vest and black trousers. His square-framed glasses rested on his nose as he was a little worried for his father. "It's pretty rare of him to invite people out like this. He must see something in you, Mr Amamiya. I doubt he'd actually admit it though." He joked a little before turning silent. "By the way... has. Has he said anything to you? About me weighing him down?"
'So this is what's on his mind.' Ren thought to himself. "No. Nothing even close." He said reassuringly.
"... To be honest, he's been acting super weird recently. More than anything, he seems stressed out. I've even heard him mention my name on the phone a few times. But every time I've asked about it, he's told me there's nothing to worry about. I dunno, I just feel anxious. I mean, we're supposed to be a family." Kaoru vented a little, coming out with his feelings. "I... I don't know if you know this, but...He isn't my real father."
Ren blinked at that, a little stunned at Kaoru knowing this about Iwaei. But he let him continue.
"He took me in after my parents died in a car crash. Apparently, he was a good friend of theirs. Honestly, I can't remember a single things about them." Kaoru admitted sadly. "I wonder if my dad even considers me to be a part of his family?"
"He definitely does, Kaoru." Ren answered.
"You think so?" Kaoru asked with a small smile. "Now that you've mentioned it, um... have you ever seen his tattoo?"
"Err..." Ren muttered as he had noticed, but didn't want to talk about it.
"The gecko on his neck. The truth is, I have a really bad scar in the same spot from my parents' car crash. Back when I was a kid, everyone would pick on me for it." Kaoru gestured to his neck and showed where the scar was, making Ren wince as he saw it.
"Oh god, Kaoru." Ren flinched as he saw it.
"My dad always found me in tears when I got home." Kaoru continued. "That's why he got that tattoo. He said it could be the new Iwaei family crest." He smiled at the memory. "I did some research on geckos. It turns out they symbolise protecting one's home and family. I had almost forgotten about that, to be honest. Maybe he cares more than I realise."
Walking in slowly, as if from exhaustion was Iwaei. "Yo, sorry for the holdup. You two look like you're havin' fun. What've you been talking about?"
Ren quickly had to lie, knowing Kaoru wouldn't be able to tell a convincing one. "Girls."
Iwaei chuckled at that, smirking at them. "Well aren't you two a pair of ladykillers? Guess there are worse things to talk about though. Wait... Kaoru, did you get a girlfriend?"
"Th-that's not what we're talking about!" Kaoru muttered as he deflected that question.
"Anyways, I can't stay long. I've got errands I need to take care of." Iwaei answered. "I figured it'd be nicer to tell you here and not over the phone."
Kaoru looked to the table and asked sadly. "What 'errands'? Or can't you tell me?"
Iwaei frowned at his son. "What's that supposed to mean? It's just work stuff. Ain't that right?" He asked Ren.
"You should buy us something." Ren responded.
"Hey, not a bad idea." He smirked. "Order anything you'd like. It's on me!"
"O-Okay." Kaoru nodded.
"By the way, I'm almost done figurin' out what happened with the deal we talked about." Iwaei continued. "I'm goin' now to meet with the guy who set it all up. I'll fill you in on the details later." He looked at Ren. "Anyways, this is all thanks to you, kid. It's nice havin' a part-timer to help around the shop."
"No problem, Iwaei." Ren answered as his bond with Iwaei grew stronger.
Hanged-Man Rank 7
"Um, y-you're not getting into anything dangerous, are you?" Kaoru asked anxiously.
"'Dangerous'? Course not." Iwaei reassured as he passed his wallet to Kaoru. "Look after this, Kaoru. Eat as much as you want."
"See you at home." Kaoru nodded as he put the wallet away.
*Time Skip*
'Where did yesterday go?' Ren thought to himself as he was back home in LeBlanc.
"Good morning, Ren. Sleep well?" Sojiro asked as he saw his 'guest' returning 'home'. An almost fatherly smile upon his face as he saw the glasses wearing man walk in
"As well as I can." Ren answered.
"Well, be careful." Sojiro commented "Don't wear yourself too thin. Because I'm not looking after you if you end up in bed for a few days."
"I know, I know." Ren chuckled with a smile and a nod "Hmm~!"
"Don't you have that Hawaii trip soon?" Sojiro asked "Better get ready for school."
"Oh, you're right! thanks, Sojiro!" Ren answered as he headed out... he then quickly rushed back in, munching down on some curry before sprinting out once again
"Kids." Sojiro chuckled
*time skip*
"Are you doing okay, Ren? You were hiccupping earlier." Ann asked.
"Yeah, just... wolfed down some curry too quickly." Ren explained again as the two where heading back to Le Blanc, preparing to have a study date.
"It's been a while since we've done one of these." Ann admitted.
"Yeah, it feels like ages, all things considered." Ren nodded and saw Futaba kneeling in front of the cafe "Futaba?" Ren asked in confusion. "Why're you out here?" He asked kindly.
"Huh? Oh, hey Ren... Ann. Sorry, guess you two have a thing." Futaba greeted
"No, it's alright. If you want to talk with Ren-" Ann asked.
"I dunno wanna interrupt." She urged
Ren felt conflicted. Futaba was waiting out here, but he also promised a study date with Ann.
"Go." Ann chuckled
"Thanks, Ann." Ren answered, seeing her go and went to Futaba. "Are you okay?"
"I want to talk... it's about my promise lists." Futaba answered.
"Alright." He nodded
"I'll see if Shiho or Makoto are free." Ann assured
"Thanks, Ann." Ren answered as both Ren and Futaba went inside.
"This is one of my promise lists I made with my mum. See, everything on here is marked off as being done. But... that's kind of... wrong." Futaba shows a list to Ren.
Ren leaned in a little closer, letting Futaba continue.
"There was one promise I lied about doing... One promise I never actually finished. It was 'get along with Kana'." Futaba curled up in her chair. "This all started back in elementary school. I used to get bullied pretty hard for how weird I was, the other kids accused me of cheating because I got perfect scores on my tests. Then one time I turned in a test with nothing written down... but the school ended up yelling at my mum." She frowned and looked at Ren with watery eyes. "My life at school was horrible. Sometimes during break, I'd lock myself in the bathroom and cry. I didn't have a single friend, I was always alone." She wiped her eyes with her sleeve.
'Fucking kids.' Ren thought angrily, picking on Futaba because she was a little different. Or hell, they were jealous of how smart she was.
"Then, one day, a new girl arrived... Kana. She was absent a lot at first, then when she was there, the other kids bullied her... like they did me. Then one day, she said something to me: 'good morning'. Then she started to say it every day from then on."
Ren soon calmed down, though hearing that Futaba and Kana were bullied still stung. "Were you happy?" He asked gently.
"Yeah, but mostly surprised. Literally, nobody wanted to talk to me back then." She answered. "To be honest, I thought the bullies put her up to it, so I ignored her the first few times. But without fail, she'd say it to me every morning. Then eventually, I said it back to her. I thought my heart was going to shatter into a million pieces. But she had been saying it to me all that time because she thought we could be friends."
Ren soon smiled at that, seeing that Futaba could have had someone to be friends with.
"She was the first person who didn't mind how weird I was." Futaba continued. "I was so happy about making a friend, I told mum. She then suggested adding to my promise list. 'Get along with Kana'. But... I couldn't do it." She began to frown. "One bad windy morning, Kana dropped her diary and pages flew everywhere. I didn't mean to look... but I saw what was written."
'Oh god, no.' Ren thought to himself.
"Once I see something... I can't forget it. It was all so horrible." Futaba explained. "How about her parents hit her, make her wear weird clothes to take pictures in. It was *full* of stories like that. Then I asked her about it, she got... really defensive. I felt terrible, but she kept yelling at me for reading it."
"Futaba." Ren frowned as he heard that, empathising with her. "Did you apologise to her?" He asked calmly... but deep within his heart was a bubbling rage.
She shook her head. "I. I froze up. And then, I ran. I ran and ran. I wanted her to stop yelling, to make things go back to the way they were before. Kana moved away pretty soon after that. I haven't talked to her since. So... I lied. I lied to mum and said that we were best friends. Every month she'd write that promise, every month I lied."
Ren was silent, but he kept listening, letting Futaba talk.
"I. I wish I could apologise to Kana. I really want to say that I'm sorry. Sorry for not helping her, though she was going through worse stuff than I was. Sorry for reading her diary... sorry for... running away. I hate being a coward." Futaba admitted as she got to her feet. "I think I might be able to face my fears now that I'm a promise-settling Phantom Thief!" She spoke with a bit more gusto.
Ren nodded as he heard her, realising that it wasn't her fault. She was just a kid at the time.
"'Get along with Kana'. I'm going to do it for real this time!" Futaba admitted. "Oh god! I didn't mean to tell you all that. N-Not even Sojiro knows... So embarrassing! Y-you have to help me out now; got it!"
"Understood." Ren answered, giving this not a second thought.
"Thank you, Ren." She smiled, giving him a hug.
As Ren reciprocated, he felt his connection to Futaba grow even more.
Hermit: Rank 6!
"Right... I'm gonna check up on Kana. Sorry about stealing your date time with Ann." Futaba apologised.
"This was important to you. I get it." Ren answered. "Besides, I love all of you. Care about you all. If, say, Makoto said she was dealing with something serious, I'd want to help her as well."
"Thanks, Joker." She went over and hugged him.
"Any time, Oracle." he smiled
*time skip*
"Where was it Mishima asked me to go?" Ren muttered as he was waiting at the train station
"I think he wanted to meet you at the diner." Morgana spoke, lying on Ren's shoulder. "Said something about going to the park too."
"Jeez, I hope he's alright." Ren commented. "I'm just glad I have more freetime this time round."
"What do you mean?" Morgana asked
"Last time, Sae was on our tail much more." Ren responded softly "But by keeping a lower profile, we are mostly fine."
"Jeez, that prosecutor's good." Morgana commented. "But we've gotten better."
"Yeah." Ren nodded. "I'm glad you still have your memories from last time, Morgana."
"Hey, you'll never get rid of me." The cat smirked. "I mean, haven't got ALL of them, but..."
"Yeah." Ren chuckled
"Hey, Ren!" Mishima waved as he approached. Jogging towards the glasses wearing Phantom Thief with a smile
"Hey, Mishima. You called?" He joked.
"Yeah, sorry about this. I just... can we talk?" He asked.
"Sure. Let's go." Ren nodded, following "The park, right?"
"Yeah, exactly." He nodded.
"Let's go." Ren nodded, following. The two headed to the park, where Mishima lead them to the river where the lights of the lamps began to glow.
"I have some great info for you!" Mishima commented as they relaxed.
"Oh?" Ren asked as Mishima looked around to make sure they weren't being overheard.
"It's about the next target for the Phantom Thieves." Mishima answered. "This one's massive!"
"You're sure fired up." Ren commented, seeing hos excited he was.
"Well, of course! It's a huge target on our hands!" Mishima answered. "This is the guy. He's a handsome young actor who's been rapidly getting popular lately. He's great at acting, has solid conversational skills... he's even been in all sorts of commercials." He showed a picture on his phone of an actor. "If you manage to change his heart people will have to start paying attention to the Phantom Thieves. He's gotta be doing some shady stuff, I know it."
Ren looked a little worried at Mishima, was he treating the Phantom Thieves as his own commodity or mercenary group "Mishima..." he started, only to be interrupted
"And no, I'm not saying this out of jealousy. I heard a rumour that a famous idol fell into his clutches... you need to act, on behalf of her fans!"
"Mishima, calm yourself." Ren asked, trying to steady Mishima's temper.
"I am calm!" He answered. "And thinking of it from a calm standpoint, I believe you guys can benefit from changing this guy's heart. I mean, this would be the best publicity possible for you guys!"
Ren rubbed the back of his neck as he heard that. Mishima... was turning into something Ren wasn't happy about. Shinji was the first; now his classmate? This was a bad pattern.
"Well? Pretty good tactic, huh? Aren't I an amazing producer?" Mishima asked. "Just you wait. I'm gonna put the Phantom Thieves on the map! You'll be practically swimming in requests!"
While Ren could feel the connection between him and Mishima growing stronger... he was worried how much this was changing his classmate. "Mishima..." he muttered again
"I'm... the producer of the famous Phantom Thieves." Mishima muttered to himself. "I'm... not boring. I'm not a zero." He turned Ren. "Hey, take out your phone."
"What?" Ren asked as Mishima did something.
"I just sent you the actor's data." Mishima spoke.
"Why?" Ren asked as he saw the information pop up.
"Don't worry, this request will boost your popularity, guaranteed." Mishima answered. "After all, I'm the reason you guys have gotten this far, right?"
Ren blinked and thought about what Mishima had done for them, bringing notoriety to the Phantom Thieves, making sure people spread the news. But this was worrying Ren. "Absolutely. Nice job." He had to acknowledge Mishima's efforts.
"Yeah, it's all because of me." He answered as he got up. "The Phantom Thieves' success is thanks to me. And they're changing the world. That means I'm the one responsible for them. That means I'm not a 'zero'!"
'You never were.' Ren thought to himself, struggling to let the words come out.
"Make sure you check the info I sent you. I'll let you know once I found some more details. Bye..." Mishima answered as he picked up his bag and left.
Moon: Rank 6
"Bye..." Ren waved and looked at his phone. "... Fuck." He whispered to himself.
"He's messed up." Morgana commented simply and calmly
"He shouldn't... Morgana, what am I going to do?" Ren asked, worried for him. "Before...those guys at the diner..."
"You didn't know." Morgana answered. "How could you? This must have been eating at him for months."
"... Do? Do you think there have been other people? That felt empty or wounded inside that they need to lash out towards everyone?" Ren asked.
"Honestly? Yeah. Heck, from what you said. I don't doubt that Narukami guy might've had one or two in his day."
Morgana explained "And Mishima... He went through hell. And he wasn't like Lady Ann. He wasn't like Ryuji. Or Lady Shiho. You didn't have a chance to reach out to him and help him heal."
"In all honesty? I barley hung out with him last time." Ren flinched "I almost abandoned him. I didn't... I didn't know."
"Then make up for it *this* time. Don't abandon him." Morgana answered.
"I won't." Ren nodded with determination, thinking about someone else he didn't spend much time with before...
*Time skip*
Ren had walked through town, heading to the church where he knew Hifumi was going to be. It had been a while since he had seen her, and her skills had been partially noticed by certain magazines. He hoped she was okay.
"Hello Ren." Hifumi waved as she saw him. "Been a while."
"Hey Hifumi. You're looking well." Ren admitted, waving back "How are you?" He asked her
"It's... been difficult. In all honesty." She admitted. "Do you mind if we go somewhere else?" She asked.
"Sure, where do you have in mind?" He asked.
"The Tower. I have tickets." Hifumi answered as she got up, packing her shogi board away.
"Sure, it'd be nice to see the city from there." Ren commented as he stood up, a hand stretched out in offering to carry her bag. They took the train all the way to the viewing tower in Tokyo, with the bullet train's speed it was quick and easy to get there. The two headed up to the top of the viewing tower and could see the lights of the city like stars below them. "Wow, look at it all." Ren commented as he saw the city below, despite getting a little vertigo.
"Yes... do you have your phone?" Hifumi asked. "I want to show you something."
"What is it?" He asked as he was shown a magazine cover and article. All about her.
"This is it." She answered, showing it. "The digital version of the weekly magazine. My father's deteriorating health, the reason he's bedridden. The fact that my mother primarily supports us; they even reported that my mother works at a night club."
"Oh... boy." He frowned as he saw it.
"Which is... not untrue. But was it necessary for them to write about this?" She asked him. "Capitalizing on a family's private matters is just cruel. My family's troubles have nothing to do with my being a shogi player."
Ren shook his head at this article, guess no amount of privacy will stop paparazzi from getting a story. Honestly, it was very fucking disgusting
"My mother was furious when she read the article. She said it'll hurt her career, and that she'll never forgive whoever wrote it." Hifumi frowned. "My father didn't say anything, he just sat there and listened... but he looked troubled. My mother told me that we' be able to quell these rumours if I became more famous. So now she's even more insistent that I do more TV shows and magazine interviews than before."
Ren looked at her as he pocketed his phone away. "You'll be famous." He admitted.
"I don't care about being famous. I just want my parents to be happy. I always believed that if I worked hard as a shogi player, I'd be able to support us. But I never expected such an article to be written about my family. Honestly... nothing good will come from being treated like an idol. People say that I'm 'all looks and no skill'. They're annoyed that I'm in the press all the time." she responded simply and planely
Ren looked at Hifumi as he leaned on the metal bannister to sit on, letting Hifumi speak.
"Terrible things have been said about me, suggesting that I would do anything to be popular. I'm even started to be shunned in the shogi world. that's why my senior acted that way toward me." She admitted, feeling guilty and hurt all the same time. "The real reason I play in the church is that no one wants to play with me. My father used to practice with me from his sick bed, but now that's become impossible. Maybe I should get a job and stop playing shogi. That way...we won't get hurt anymore."
Ren pondered about this and looked at Hifumi, seeing how much she was being hurt because of this. "Do what you love." He told her.
"'Do what I love'?" She repeated. "I... love shogi. I don't want to quit. Yes, you're right. You understand my true feelings." She began to smile. "At the end of the day, I love shogi. I'd never be able to give it up. I was just confused because of the article and what my senior said to me. However, I think I can make my next move... thanks to you."
"You're welcome." He answered with a small smile, seeing a person happy right now and not upset.
"You really help me realise a lot about myself outside of Shogi." Hifumi continued.
Ren could feel the growth of his and Hifumi's bond as they stood in the viewing location.
Star: Rank 6
"Hey, do you mind if we head back to the church for a match?" She asked as she leaned towards the window. "That article has me left irritated. I'm going to use my secret move, 'The Eternal Abyss Yagura Gate' and turn the board into hell."
Ren chuckled at that name. How much of a Chunibiyo name was it?
"Well? Would you care for a match?" She asked excitedly.
"Err... sure." He chuckled nervously.
Fool: Rank 10
Magician: Rank 10
Lovers: Rank 10
Chariot: Rank 10
Sun: Rank 10
Lust: Rank 9
Strength: Rank 9
Hierophant: Rank 8
Devil: Rank 8
Death: Rank 7
High Priestess: Rank 7
Emperor: Rank 7
Hanged-Man: Rank 7
Temperance: Rank 6
World: Rank 6
Fortune: Rank 6
Tower: Rank 6
Star: Rank 6
Hermit: Rank 6
Moon: Rank 6
Empress: Rank 5