Vsauce-Here: To repeat what I said to you in PM in a response to this review-
The story had been been and had started to be posted before Persona 5 Royal was EVEN RELEASED. At least in the west. And as Ghost and I have a backlog of chapters so we can have some level of a upload schedule, we where already finished with writing Madarame by that point
Neither Ghost nor I had the money to get Royal right at release, as we had other things going on. And then we would need to FINISH the game to work out how to add the extra parts into the story... You know. A Persona game. A game franchise that takes over hundred hours to complete and absorb the story correctly, let alone replaying it several times to get a feel for everything. When we also had a lot of OTHER things to do with our time such as work and writing and our general lives
To put it SUPER SIMPLY: the reason Persona 5 Royal is not being included is by the time we COULD add it, it would be too late to add any of it satisfyingly and we would be adding it for the sake of adding it. But we have tried to work in references/some of the smaller bits here and there as extra bits even though we are not adding the main plot
And to add to that a bit more-
If we had included Royal aspects, we would have had to restart it. But your idea of him dying in vanilla and being reborn in Royal IS a good idea and what we would have done if we had came up with the story after Royal came out.
yugioh8392: Thank you for understanding and trying to explain the issue we had with the Royal situation and why we find it annoying to be asked about it. I hope you have been enjoying the story
Masteria: Glad you have been enjoying it.
WilsontheBlackDragonofDarkness: Outside of Noir, we only have ONE more member joining the Phantom Thieves in this story
Xerzo LotCN: If I came across as rude, I apologise. I like responding to reviews is all, as well as actually seeing thoughts and opinions on what we wrote. Where we are going. I like seeing people's thoughts and having conversations about why Ghost and I made the choices we have. Heck, I like having talks with Ghost where we read through the reviews we get. Reminicing about what we have done so far or looking at things from different angles with each other.
So I have gotten irritated with some reviews being like:
(in story, Ren has girl troubles) "Haha, you're in the dog house now"
(Ren kisses a new girl ) "Oooo~! I wonder how this will go~!"
Like it doesn't add anything to us talking to you the readers, or with each other, because the review is just... recapping the chapter. Again, like someone in a reaction video literally saying what's on the screen or asking "Why'd he do that?" every two seconds without pausing the video.
I hope I have at least explained my point of view better. And again, sorry if I came off as rude
StevieBond: She deserves all the hugs.
Temporal King: Wow, that boss sounds fucking hard!
Snek: Yeah, it is a bit of an issue with the inserted/extra/OC palaces. aking up space you'd normally do social linking while waiting for the main palace to wrap up.
TheHyrulianHero: Oh, feel free to share and and all theories you have. We will keep our eyes out for any ninja agents trying to steal our notebooks.
Obiki Doragon: Ghost has a response to that.
Here are some reviews answered by Ghost:
Obiki Doragon: Here's the thing, when we were writing this story, we were also doing Zi-O Revised. So the spellchecker auto-corrected to that because of Woz. So yeah, unintentional on our part, but we're trying to fix it.
TheHyrulianHero: Oh ho, just wait. Joker's going to have a wild Valentine's.
Tony Anderson: Good choice of characters.
Neo Infinity: We thought it'd be fun in story.
Temporal King: Thanks very much, and YEESH! I had no idea Krishna was that busted in SMT.
StevieBond: WE MUST HUG THE GREMLIN!
WilsontheBlackDragonofDarkness: We have plans for certain characters.
Masteria: Oh, that's great! I'm glad you've been enjoying the story.
yugioh8392 chapter 18: Thank you for your review and for pointing out why we haven't added P5R into this story. This suggestion of adding P5R content has been a thorn in our side since the beginning. We have already explained this numerous times, but it's good to see reviewers actually understand why we couldn't upheave the story we had made at this point.
Disclaimer: We do not own Persona 5. That belongs to Atlus.
Co-written by GhostKaiser23
AUTHOR'S NOTE
Well everyone, we are back again
And because of how fucking busy I am gonna be with work...
Heads up, there will be NO updates for the next two months. Our next chapter will be on Febuary 29th 2024. Taking December and January off from posting.
One, to let me get back into the groove. And two, so that I can breath and then have a break because Christmas is gonna MURDER ME!
So since we won't see you then... have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. See ya in 2024.
Hope you enjoy this chapter
And what a perfect thing to do. As we go ona small hiatus during this christmas period what is to happen... but start a multi-chapter mini arc and head off to the brilliant sunny brightness and warmth that is Hawaii!
Have fun!
Persona 5 New Game Plus, Joker's Second Chance
Chapter 51
Hawaii Part 1
"Alright. Alright. I'm up." He groaned, getting to his feet and waking up. "Maybe it'll be easier today?"
"Don't forget that you've got to get ready for Hawaii." Morgana pointed out.
"... Crap, I've been too busy, I forgot!" Ren facepalmed.
"Well, you better get up and get moving. Sojiro's brought out curry again." Morgana poked him.
"Right, right." Ren mumbled, throwing some cloths into a suitcase
Vrr
Vrr!
His phone began to buzz, showing messages from the others.
"Yo, dude! Hawaii trip comin' up!" Ryuji wrote to him, giving a few excited emojis.
"I can't believe it, I've always wanted to go!" Shiho added next, giving a little picture of a palm tree.
"It's only for a few days. But yeah, it's gonna be fun." Ren texted back
"Please remember that we will be representing Shujin. It might reflect badly on us if we misbehave." Makoto pinged up.
"You worry too much. Have some fun, Prez." Ryuji answered.
"Ryuji has a point, Makoto. We can enjoy a tropical break, we've earned it." Ann added.
Ren saw these messages and smiled, it was fun to see his friends taking this 'seriously' but fun.
"Should we meet up?" Yusuke asked.
"Huh, that's actually a good idea." Ren commented. "A hang out after school before we all head out."
"Great! One last Japan hang out before the trip!" Ryuji smirked.
"Sounds like you've got a plan before heading to the States." Morgana commented, almost whining.
"I know, I know. I can't take you with me... again. But you'll get detained if I smuggle you aboard." Ren frowned as he patted his head.
"Mmmmrow~! It's fine. I'll stay with Futaba." Morgana purred
"I hope Sojiro's going to be okay with that." Ren commented.
"Hey, I'm a purr-fect house guest." Morgana quipped.
"Good one." Ren laughed "Well, off to school."
"Hup! Onwards to the holiday!" Morgana pointed as he jumped into Ren's bag.
*Time Skip*
Ren was sat in his class, having his lunch as Kawakami walked in early "I am sorry to interupt, Mr Amamiya." Ms Kawakami apologised, while being professional.
"It's fine, Ms Kawakami." Ren nodded up to her
"I assume that you're excited for the school trip?" She asked.
"Yeah." He nodded "Do you need to talk to me?"
"Yes, I do." She answered. "This trip, will you behave yourself?"
"I intend to, Ms Kawakami." He reassured her.
"Good, because I am trusting you and your classmates to behave yourselves." She answered. "We don't want any 'unfortunate accidents' happening." She crossed her arms, looking between him and Ann "Would you and Ms Takamaki meet me in the staff office after you have finished eating?"
"Yes, of course, Ms Kawakami." Ren answered.
"Yes, Ma'am." Ann followed up, hearing and seeing Ms Kawakami there.
'Oh boy, what the hell did they do?' Some of their classmates thought in worry as they saw this. Some of the girls pouting as they thought of the possibilities about the known couple and what they might have 'done'. It was kind of scandalous to think about...but it also meant that they could gossip about certain things.
Both Ren and Ann looked at each other while at their desks, nodding subtly to each other as they knew this was going to be important... but they also knew they had to keep this 'quiet', people were staring.
'Hmm... People are staring.' Ann thought to herself as she stood up, finishing lunch.
"Hmm, excuse us." Ren apologised as he soon finished as well. The pair walked off to the teacher's lounge where they were to meet Ms Kawakami.
"Thank you two for joining me." Ms Kawakami spoke as she saw the two there. "As you both know the trip to Hawaii is tomorrow."
"Of course, Miss Kawakami." They answered as they were soon alone with the last teacher leaving.
"We will all be alone in another country. Very few people will know us." She explained "So... We can be more open. But we still have to be careful."
"Of course, we will." Ren answered.
"Best behaviour, promise." Ann added. "Oh! You gonna wear that new bikini you got the other day?" Ann asked, seemingly forgetting her promise already as excitement began to fill her "You look so hot in it! You should totally bring it!"
"New bikini?" Ren asked
"Ahem, Ms Tamaki. That was meant to be a surprise." Sadayo muttered as she wanted to keep it secret for now.
"Oh..." Ann sweat dropped "Ooops. Sorry."
"I can still act surprised when I see it." Ren admitted.
"Of course." She nodded while rubbing her temple
"Are you okay? Do you need a drink?" Ren asked as he noted this.
"I'm fine, just a little low on coffee." She answered.
ding!
"Here you go." Ren smiled
...
"You are a gleaming treasure." She took the drink and felt the warmth in her hands. "Ah~, thank you."
"Any time." He answered. "Don't crash during class."
"If that's the case, I'll see Dr Takemi if it happens." She answered.
"Don't think she does house calls." Ann joked
"We'll see about that." Ms Kawakami 'yawned'.
"Will you tell Ryuji and the others?" Ren asked.
"Not my classes, right now." She explained. "Also, I saw the group chat. Could you tell them when you all meet up?"
"Yeah, of course." Ren nodded as they heard the door open behind them.
"That'll be all, Ms Takamaki and Mr Amamiya." Ms Kawakami finished, being a teacher again. "Enjoy the rest of your school day."
THUNK
And the door slid closed
"Hehe." Ann whispered, hugging Ren's arm "All alone. And we have some free time before classes start." She winked
"Yeah, now... what do you want to do before class?" He whispered back. as he cupped her chin softly
"I have a few ideas." She whispered, leaning in and pecked his lips.
"Hmm~, cherry?" He laughed, grinning after the kiss
She tapped her lips playfully, Ann's legs swaying side by side with a gentle laugh "Maybe."
"Hehe. Delicious." He grinned
"Come on, I've got a place." Ann whispered as she pulled Ren to a hiding spot.
"Wow!" He gasped as he was dragged away but he grinned, following
*Time Skip*
"So, how was class?" Shiho asked as they were outside of school. The group leaving the school almost side by side
"Oh, I had a tasty lunch." Ann said casually, giving her fingertips a kiss or two
"Oh, yeah. My mum packed this great lunchbox too." Ryuji commented.
"Err, that's not what she-" Morgana looked at him with a raised eyebrow.
"Not right now, Morgana. Trying to stay outta my best buddy's personal life." Ryuji interrupted.
"You didn't..." Makoto whispered to Ann in horror
"Ladies never tell." Ann winked.
"So... Meet up with Yusuke. Grab Futaba. Then what?" Ryuji asked, changing the subject
"Just hang out before the trip?" Makoto asked. "We'll all be busy during it, swimming, sunbathing and exploring for a start."
"Yeah, but I mean where? We just gonna hang in Ren's room again? Or somewhere else?" Ryuji clarified
"... There's the baseball cage in Yongen-Jaya." Ren thought.
"There's also: the movies, the cafe." Shiho listed off.
"Should we see what the others wanna do?" Ann suggested
"Yeah, it'll be a week before we meet each other again." Shiho agreed.
"Hey, Yusuke's coming." Ryuji commented, pulling out his phone to give the group a head's up.
*time skip*
"Wait, for real?! Your school is headed to Los Angeles?" Ryuji asked excitedly as they were in the batting cages in Yongen-Jaya.
tink!
"Yes. I am most looking forward to seeing the types of art another country holds." Yusuke nodded
THOOMP!
Tink!
Ren swung his bat again, hitting another ball. "Well, I hope you can find that inspiration this time, Yusuke."
Tink!
"'This time'?" Shiho asked.
"Ah, yes. For my art pieces." Yusuke answered.
"Art piece?" Futaba asked "What you talking 'bout, Inari?"
"Some time back." Yusuke began to saw before the sound of a baseball interrupted.
tink!
"I applied for an art competition, but my choice wasn't looked on favourably. So, Ren and I have been looking into other avenues." He explained
Tink!
"Whoo, nice hit." Ryuji commented, holding a bat in his hand.
"Want to try, Makoto?" Ren asked.
"Um, sure." She answered. "I don't think I'll be very good."
"It's just for fun." Ren smiled as he held the bat for her. Makoto shrugged as she took the bat, walking forwards and taking her place "Just relax. I didn't even get it on the first time." Ren reassured.
"Okay... Just the one. Okay?" She asked with a slight blush, feeling him hold her close
"Just one." He nodded. He saw the machine setting up... and he backed up
A fire suddenly burst alight in Makoto's eyes as she swung
Thoomp!
"HOME RUN!" Futaba cheered as loud as she could at the same time, the machine shooting its ball at Makoto "HOME RUN!"
BONK!
"Hnn! HA!" Makoto swung and hit the ball as hard as she could.
tink!
WOOSH!
Ding!
Ding!
Ding!
...
"A... home run?" Makoto blinked in shock as she couldn't believe what she did.
"HOME RUN!" Shiho cheered
"CALLED IT!" Futaba cheered as she fistpumped.
"Hehe, maybe SHE should be using the pipe. Eh, Ryuji?" Ann joked
"Oh, suck it." he huffed. And as he saw her smirk, begining to open her mouth, he held his hands up "Quiet! Not a word!"
Waving him off, the blonde walked past him "I think that's enough for today." Ann chuckled as she saw their friends almost get angry.
...
"Anyone wanna play cards?" Ren offered
*time skip*
Ann, Shiho, Yusuke and Morgana where sat in a circle. Each holding hands full of cards, going in a clockwise motion as they took turns laying cards down
"I think I'll start low." Shiho said, throwing down a four of clubs
"Intersting." Yusuke said, placing down a six of hearts
"Not so fast!" Morgana laughed, using his paw to flick over the queen of spades
"I don't get this game. What's it called again?" Ryuji mumbled
The group where in Ren's room, some general food and drink items around the room
"Haha! Beat THAT!" Ann cheered, throwing down a Joker
"Oh, come on!" Morgana groaned
"I have to pass." Shiho mumbled
"It's called Tychoon." Ren explained, sitting next to his friend
"Quite enough of that!" Yusuke said, throwing down the three of spades ontop of the pile
"No! I forgot that rule!" Ann groaned as Yusuke moved the pile of cards to the side
"Yeah, that's it. I don't get it." Ryuji repeated
"What's there not to get?" Ann asked as the others paused their game
"I dunno, maybe go over the instructions one more time?" Ryuji asked.
"Okay. So the deck is split between four players. And each player setting down cards." Makoto explained "You can only play a card if the card is higher than the one another player has placed. 3 is the lowest going all the way up to the King, followed by the Ace, 2 and finally the Joker. Understand so far?"
"Yep, with ya so far." Ryuji nodded, paying attention and writing it down.
"Well, the three of spades is special because it can counter the Joker." Futaba pointed out "Not that anyone can stop OUR Joker."
"Thanks Futaba." Ren chuckled
"You can place multiple cards down if they are the same number. The Joker can substitute any card when playing multiples." Makoto continued "You can only play cards on top of multiples if you have the same ammount of cards that are a higher score."
"So, say I play three fours. If you have three copies of any card, numbered from five to the Joker, you can play them. Otherwise you pass." Ren added
"If all three players pass without playing a card and it is your turn again, or the three of spades is played ontop of a Joker, the round ends and the last player to play keeps going. The winner is the first person to use up all the cards in their hand." Makoto explained
"The round keeps going until everyone has used up their hands. The winner is the 'tycoon', second to run out is 'rich', third is 'pour' and the looser is a begger." Futaba continued
Ryuji wrote it all down, following the rules they gave them, pointing with the pen to get each response. "Three...Joker...skip turn...Tycoon, Rich, Poor, Begger. Okay. I think I got it now."
"Then in the next round, the tycoon gived the begger two of their cards. The tycoon choosing. And they take the beggers two highest cards. The same for the Rich and the Pour, but only one card." Makoto explained "It goes three rounds, and the one who has the highest 'status' among the three rounds wins."
"So if you have tycoon twice but loose the final round, you have MOST LIKELY won." Ren clarified
"But if, in rounds two or three, the tycoon is not the first to finish, they are INSTANTLY out and are the begger." Futaba said dramatically "You go bankrupt and loose!"
"Okay, okay. I think I get it. Unless there's any other rules or secrets I need to know about?" Ryuji asked.
"Just two more." Makoto explained "The eight stop and the Revolution."
"Okay, so how does that work?" Ryuji asked, flipping the paper over.
"If you play an 8, the turn stops and you can play another card." Makoto explained "And a revolution is when you play four cards of the same number, or three cards and a joker."
"It flips the table. Literally. The card values are reversed. So 3 is now the strongest card." Ren clarified
"But everyone also gets a turn, so someone can do a Revolution ontop of your Revolution. A Counter Revolution that switches the score back." Futaba finished up
"Okay...that's it?" Ryuji asked.
"That's it." Futaba nodded.
"Okay...I think I get it...Let's play. Again." Ryuji nodded with a competitive fire in his eyes
"Hey, kids. You guys hungry up there?" Sojiro asked from downstairs.
"Let's try after dinner." Ren laughed before calling down "Yeah Sojiro! I'll pay!"
"Yes! Sojiro curry!" Futaba cheered.
"Sweet, race you down there!" Ryuji quickly raced down.
"No fair, Ryuji!" Futaba called out.
"Wait for me!" Yusuke followed, his stomach growling louder than everyone elses.
"Hehehe. That lot." Ren laughed
"So... you're buying?" Shiho teased.
"Well, what can I say?" He smirked. "Don't wanna take advantage of Sojiro. It is a lot of mouths to feed."
"But will you cook alongside him is a good question." Makoto asked.
"... Are you asking for a home-cooked meal, Makoto?" Ann asked back
"N-No." She stuttered as her eyes widened, a blush crossing her legs
"Then what do you want?" Ann tippy-tapped her fingers up Makoto's arm playfully before booping her nose
"W-well. I. I um." Makoto blushed as she tried to get away.
"Ann, stop teasing." Shiho chastised
"Okay, okay. I'm sorry." Ann apologised.
"Don't spank me." She winked
"Someone is bold and frisky recently." Shiho frowned
Ann pushed her fingers together in an 'innocent' manner as she looked at her best friend. "Hee-hee, I don't know what you mean."
"Let's go down." Ren laughed "Before the food gets cold."
*time skip, the next morning*
Ren was up and ready, his bag was packed with clothes, swimwear and a few essentials. There was no way he was going to miss this. "Alright. Bag triple-checked, toiletries, towels. All here." He muttered. "I think I am all ready." he nodded to himself
Sojiro walked up the steps and saw Ren finish looking over his bag. "Hey Ren, don't go cutting loose just because I'm not there to keep an eye on you."
"I won't let you down, Sojiro." Ren answered.
"I'll keep an eye on Futaba and Morgana. You owe me one." He added.
'I owe you more than one.' Ren nodded as his response as he saw Sojiro head downstairs. "Well, I'll see you in a week, Morgana." He patted his head.
"Yeah, we've still got a job to do." the black cat mumbled, purring under the head pat
"Yeah yeah, love you to kitty." Ren said playfully, scratching behind his little brother figures ear
"Nya~, hey that's not fair!" He mewed and flopped onto the couch as Ren scratched the sweet spot.
*Time Skip* Hours passed as Ren was now at the airport, the others were there and looked and felt -exhausted-.
"Did you guys not get a good night sleep?" he asked
"Too excited. It's Hawaii, man." Ryuji admitted.
"Sun, surf, sand. Shores and sightseeing..." Shiho listed off, imagining all it could be as she rubbed her eyes.
"We can sleep on the plane." Makoto added.
"If you're sure." Ren shrugged... and let out a yawn himself
"Late night?" Ann asked as she looked at their boyfriend.
"Kind of, just had to make sure I have all my things." He admitted as they waited to board the plane "And the tickets?" Ren asked.
...
...
...
Ryuji's eyes widened in fear, but checked his back pocket in his bag and sighed in relief. "Okay. Still there. Phew!"
"Alright everyone, gather around." Ms Kawakami spoke to her students. Everyone did as they where told, approaching the teachers and the third years "Now, we're all representing Shujin Academy during this trip. How you act will reflect on the school. I have confidence in you all being on your best behaviours." She continued. "However, don't let that stop yourselves from having fun and enjoying your time."
"Yes, Ms Kawakami!" They answered positively.
"Get your tickets ready, it seems that we're about to board." She followed up as she lead them.
"Third years, keep your eyes out. You are all old enough, but I don't want anyone being an idiot and wandering off. Got it?"
"Yes, ma'am." They answered, knowing they would have to be the responsible ones.
One by one the plane was boarded. And then... they where off!
*time skip*
"Zzz... Zzz..." Ryuji was flat out on the plane, sleeping with an eyemask on while Ren looked out the window to see the rising sun come over the islands of Hawaii.
'Never change, Ryuji.' Ren thought, though it wasn't a full smile as he was in the same row as Mishima, who was still hoping that the Phantom Thief quest to be made.
*Time Skip*
The class had landed in Hawaii, the disembarking was a little embarrassing since Ryuji was just overexcited...and couldn't speak English to the passenger control when asked for his passport. But that didn't matter as they took one step out of the airport and felt the tropical air and sun on their skin, feeling a difference in climate as they were now compared to home.
"Wow... feel that salt-air." Shiho whispered as she closed her eyes and felt it on her skin. The volleyball player spreading her arms wide as she basked in the light
"It's so bright!" Ann mumbled, covering her eyes from the blinding sun
"Well, it's morning." Ren chuckled as he adjusted his glasses, helping shield his eyes
"Aloha, welcome." A tour guide smiled as he was hired by the school.
"Whoa! You speak Japanese?" Ryuji asked in shock and awe.
"Alright everyone, we're headed to the hotel now!" Ms Kawakami called out.
"Let's go guys." Makoto urged everyone, clapping softly
"Lead the way!" Ryuji smirked.
"Easy, Ryuji. We've got four days here." Ren chuckled as they walked to the tour bus and drove to the hotel.
Hawaii looked beautiful, the sun was out, the beaches were filled with people and golden sand, and the ocean looked clear and sapphire blue. Palm trees stood proud and tall as their canopies were shade for the people there. It took about an hour, but they arrived at the hotel, where they could see the beach from the foyer. 'Wow!' was the groups collective thoughts as they looked out before them. At the wonderful foreign land. Some of the students were cheering as they were finally in Hawaii proper, able to enjoy their time here.
"Wow, this place is amazing! What's that smell? It's breathtaking." Ryuji asked as he took in the air. His voice a bit loud, almost shouting, as his head was darting around. As he jumped and bounced, wide eyed and grinning like an excited kid
"So embarrassing." Ann groaned.
"Probably the sea air you're feeling." Shiho explained to Ryuji with a soft laugh
"And these leis are probably amplifying it." Makoto added
"What's a 'lei'?" Ann asked with a tilt of her head, playing with her hair
"These flower necklaces." Makoto picked up one. A small necklace made up of multiple different coloured flowers hanging from her fingers
"Ah, right." Ryuji understood.
"Hey guys, we're over here getting our room assignments." Mishima spoke as he approached them a little nervously.
"Sweet! Think we'll be roomies?" Ryuji asked Ren.
"I'm afraid that it won't happen, Mr Sakamato." Ms Kawakami spoke as she approached. "You belong to a different class, it'll just confuse the roll-call."
"Dang it." He frowned, crossing his arms
"Don't worry, we've still got the rest of Hawaii." Ren reassured.
"Hey, Shiho. Should we see if the girl we dorm with is okay with swapping with Ren?" Ann whispered
"Hey, good idea." Shiho whispered back hoping that could happen. The two giggling and a shiver running down Ren's spins
"Why do I sense danger?" He mumbled, the Joker flinching softly
"Now, I hope you all treat these key cards responsibly when you get them from the front desk." Ms Kawakami instructed. "Because we will be charged if we need them replaced if you loose them. And trust me when I say, I WON'T be happy if THAT happens."
"Yes, ma'am." They answered, gulping nervously.
*Time Skip*
Ryuji and Ren were now outside, wearing their beach-wear and beginning to soak up the sun. Ren was wearing a pair of dark blue shorts while Ryuji was wearing a pair of red shorts with a black flower print on them.
"Man, this feels great." Ryuji commented.
"It does. I wonder where-ha?" Ren asked before looking behind him and saw Ann, Shiho and Makoto in bikinis.
Ann was wearing a red, green and yellow print string bikini with red flip-flops.
Makoto was wearing a frilly white bikini skirt with a white top and white sandals.
Shiho was wearing a light and dark blue tidal-wave-styled bikini, light blue flip flops and her hair let down.
"W-Wow... Beautiful..." Ren mumbled
"Yes, very picturesque." Yusuke nodded from beside them while holding his hands up in a picture position
"Oh, hey Yusuke." Ryuji spoke nonchalantly as they saw him.
"Good afternoon." he nodded back in greeting
...
...
...
"YUSUKE?!" The group double-took. Looking to their friend, the blue haired artist who was supposed to be in LA right now!
"What are you doing here?" Makoto asked as she ran a hand through her hair, Ann slapping herself a bit. Worried she was seeing a ghost or something
"I thought you were going to L.A.!" Shiho added.
"Ah, yes. An unfortunate venture occurred. When travelling to our destination, a severe storm made it impossible for the plane to land safely. So my school had to make an emergency landing here." Yusuke answered calmly.
'Damn it, I wanted him to see L.A.' Ren thought to himself. 'No chance of better weather, Marie?'
"Well, guess it means we're all 'slumming' it here for the time being." Ann joked nervously.
"Hey, look on the bright side. At least there isn't some conveluted weirdness to allow first years on the trip." Ryuji joked
The group agreed to that, seeing it was only second and third years coming here, first years would have to wait for their own trip.
"I apologise if I am crashing your own trip. It wasn't my-" Yusuke apologised before Ren gave him an over-the-shoulder friend hug.
"Don't worry about it, you can't control the weather. Besides, it just means we can get ice cream!" Ren added.
"Yeah!" Shiho cheered "I've always wanted to try western ice cream!"
...
"Can anyone speak English enough to buy some?" Ryuji asked as he blinked, looking left and right in shock and confusion. Finally registering the language barrier issue
"I can speak some." Makoto answered, raising her hand.
"We can probably get a double cone or something!" Ann added.
"Watch that sweet tooth, Ann, we've got all day here." Shiho teased her best friend with a small shoulder bump
"Hey, you know what might be cool? Checking out the Phan-Site. See if people halfway around the world have heard of us." Ryuji thought out loud.
"Ryuji!" Makoto chastised
"What? It's just checking our phones." Ryuji debated.
"Then it'd be like back home, just standing around looking at our screens." Makoto responded.
"Yes, and I, for one, want to look at the inspiring island culture." Yusuke added.
"Okay, okay. It was just a suggestion." Ryuji answered.
"Come on, let's get some ice cream and tan." Ren reassured.
*Time Skip*
The group were back at the hotel. Having spent their first day sunbathing and taking pictures of the area.
"Wow, what a day." Ren sighed as he was in his room, which he had to share with Mishima.
"Yeah, it was." His fellow student nodded. "I saw you and your friends hanging out on the beach."
"It was good. What about you, Mishima? You do something good?" Ren asked politely.
"I got to try some easy surfing lessons. Nothing too much, but it makes you -really feel- like you're part of it." Mishima added.
"Heh, sounds like you're relaxing." Ren lay back on his bed, which was comfier than sleeping on a plane's upright seat.
"Well, sort of. Have you checked the Phan-Site?" Mishima asked.
'Dang, I forgot about that.' Ren thought to himself. "No, I haven't. What's up with it?"
"It's blowing up! People are excited about it! I mean, I made it and even I'm surprised." He answered. "But... what do you think of Akechi? The detective who's chasing after the Thieves. I mean, his popularity has been dropping since he hasn't produced anything against them."
"Well, he's doing his job. And the Phantom Thieves are doing their best, I guess." Ren ambiguously responded.
"Ah, I can't think about this trip. I'm too excited about the site." He explained.
"Yeah... I can understand that." Ren answered calmly.
"Wow, you sure are calm. Something this amazing just... you know..." Mishima began to yawn.
"I think it's time for bed." Ren answered.
"S-Sure." Mishima nodded tiredly. "I'll just use the bathroom quickly." He pointed as he headed with his pyjamas.
'Mishima... Don't turn bad.' Ren thought to himself as he lay on his bed.
*Time Skip*
It was the following day, the sun was up and the students were in the foyer, talking about what they could do this time. "Man, it's nothing but Japanese people here." Ryuji complained a little. "I thought I'd be getting 'alohas' in every direction."
"It costs money for that, we're only students after all." Ann responded.
"It's the same here too." Makoto added as she walked towards them. "I just had to listen to a taxi driver complain for thirty minutes. With students being chaperones has made things difficult too."
"Jeez..." Ren sighed gently, rubbing his eyes.
"Everything okay, dude? You shacked up with Mishima; right?" Ryuji asked.
"Yeah... just he's excited. It's Phan-Site all the time." He admitted.
"Even in Hawaii?" Shiho asked.
"I guess we've made our international break." Ryuji smirked. "Kinda makes me want to head back."
"You really have no chill." Ann deadpanned.
"Perhaps we can take this time to buy souvenirs?" Yusuke asked as he soon approached. "I've been meaning to do some shopping."
"Oh thanks, man. I need to get something for my mum." Ryuji pointed out.
"We need to get some things for Futaba and Morgana too." Shiho added.
"I do wonder what Morgana would want." Makoto wondered.
"Guess we're just the same here as in Japan." Shiho muttered as she realised that their friend group was all together again.
"Well, it just means we're looking out for each other." Ren answered. "Let's just try and enjoy ourselves."
The group soon headed out, with Ren seeming to catch a glimpse of a red-haired girl that looked familiar to him. 'Wait... is that?' He thought in shock as he saw her.
"Do you see something?" Yusuke asked.
"I thought... it's nothing." Ren admitted before looking towards his group. Some time passed as the group went into the city, where they saw that there was a Big Bang Burger, some things never change really.
"I didn't know there was a Big Bang Burger here." Ann commented.
"They're big in Japan, so I guess they're branching out?" Ryuji commented.
"Wasn't there an article about Okumura Foods?" Makoto pondered as she remembered something.
'Haru.' Ren thought to himself. He hoped to see where while he was on the island, it would be nice
"The company that's been mentioned on the Phan-Site?" Shiho asked.
"You've been checking up on it?" Yusuke asked.
"Sporadically. People have been asking for the Phantom Thieves to change their heart." Shiho answered.
"Well, considering they're kinda 'unopposed' in their competition, it makes sense that they're over in America." Ryuji commented.
"It may be my sister's instincts rubbing off on me... but I think this is something the Phantom Thieves might need to look into." Makoto commented.
"Why don't we take a photograph of us all? To commemorate our time here." Yusuke suggested.
"Great idea!" Ryuji nodded, pulling out his phone to get the pic. Ren saw this and smiled, seeing his friends gather around to try and get everyone in. "Oh dang, can't get everyone in at this angle." Ryuji frowned.
"Here, let me." Ren offered as he took Ryuji's phone and got it into the right position as he was being the cameraman.
"Don't you-?" Ann asked.
"I'll be alright." He answered reassuringly. "Smile."
Click!
"Got it!" Ren smiled, passing the phone back to Ryuji "You all looked great." he nodded
Each responded positively in their own way. "Hey, why don't we head to the beaches? Just people watch for a bit?" Makoto suggested.
"Yeah, that sounds fun, we might catch some stores too." Shiho added.
"Ooh, we could even try some of these things called 'Malasada'." Ann added.
"Hmm, I'd like to try those." Yusuke asked.
As they all began making plans, Ren caught the red-haired girl again going through the tree-line. "Guys, I'll catch up. There's something I want to do, if that's okay." he spoke quickly as he began to walk away, even sprinting a bit
"Sure man, no problem." Ryuji answered.
Ren headed towards the red-haired girl, almost enticing him as she playfully gave him the 'come hither' finger motion as she smiled. "Lavenza?" He asked her.
"Took you long enough." The girl responded. "I was worried that you forgot me."
"How're you here?" Ren asked.
"The Velvet Room isn't just situated in Japan you know." Lavenza answered, pouting a little as she was wearing a white blouse, blue shorts and light blue flip-flops. "And we are far enough away that the cup will be less likely to see me."
"I... It's good to see you." He admitted. "And this dress... You look good."
"Thank you." She smiled "And now I can meet the rest of your harem. Properly."
Ren took a moment.. .and nodded. "Yeah, it'll be a shock for some of the group." he admitted with a slight sweatdrop
"Ah right. They might think you picked up someone on the second day here." Lavenza chuckled, but looped her arm around his. "But it might be fun to tease them like that. Just a little joke."
"I guess." He laughed
"So, do you want to introduce me?" She asked.
"Sure." He nodded. "Let's go." He nodded, leading her away. The two walked towards Ren's friends and girlfriends, arm in arm as they were enjoying their time together for as brief as it would be.
"Is it not a wonderful day? I feel inspired just to paint right here." Yusuke commented as he did the 'landscape picture' gesture with his hands and fingers.
"Nothing gets you down does it?" Shiho smirked.
"Wait... Ren? Who's that with him?" Makoto double-took as they saw Ren and a new girl approach them
"What the heck, Ren?" Ann asked in shock, snapping slightly as they saw his fingers interlocked with the red haired stranger
"Dude, already?" Ryuji almost stepped back in shock, thinking he found another girlfriend. And an American girlfriend at that!"
"Ryuji, she is clearly Japanese." Yusuke pointed out simply
"Hey, guys. This is Lavenza. Lavenza, these are my friends." Ren chuckled as he introduced them. "Ryuji, Yusuke, Ann, Shiho and Makoto."
"Nice to meet you all." Lavenza smiled as she bowed to them in fluent Japanese.
"Hi, nice to meet you." Ann responded.
"Hello." Shiho added.
"How did you two meet?" Makoto asked.
'Oh crap, what am I going to say?' Ren thought as he realised this was bad. Not even thinking about how all this looked for even a second!
"We met each other a while ago, he's told me a lot about you." Lavenza smiled while bowing in front of them all
"Oh god, dude." Ryuji groaned.
"Ren, explain." Ann asked, sounding annoyed. "Now. Please."
"Lavenza and I met before I came to Shujin." Ren explained. "She's been helping me with things."
"Oh, is she?" Makoto asked as she noticed how... naturally close Ren and Lavenza where
"Hey, Yusuke. That's something cool, come on." Ryuji smiled awkwardly as he pushed his friend away.
"What? And abandon our friend?" Yusuke asked, almost sounding offended
"What kind of things?" Shiho added as her eye twitched a bit
"Dude, I know these flags. We gotta go!" Ryuji hissed back as he grabbed Yusuke's hand and ran, wanting to protect both himself and his friend. Leaving Ren to the grave he had apparently dug for himself "We'll be back later, good luck, leader!"
"Guys?" Ren panicked as he saw them bolt, his blood running cold "Hey, guys, where are you going?!" he called, taking a step as he prepared to chase after the,
"Oh no, you're not getting away that easy." Shiho pointed at him. The three girls standing there confident, almost causing a shadow to cast over Ren
"Excuse me, it's not Ren's fault." Lavenza intruded.
"Oh? Please explain then." Makoto added.
"Y-You see." Ren tried to answer, trying to think of a legitimate reason that didn't involve them knowing about the Velvet Room.
"Yes?" Makoto asked.
"Ren met me before he met you." Lavenza began to explain, albeit using the wrong words.
"Oh? So you where seeing someone-" Ann snapped, holding her heart as she felt pain fill her
"I believe you know my two sisters, Justine and Caroline." Lazenza said, letting her true form be seen by the three thieves for just a moment
The girls looked shocked as Lavenza transformed from a red-haired girl about their size to a four-foot-tall, platinum-blonde-haired girl with yellow eyes, wearing a blue and black dress, headband and long black gloves and then back to the red-haired girl.
"Y-you? You're-!" Shiho double-took as they looked at her.
"I have just shown you my true form." Lavenza answered. "Albeit briefly."
"I-What?" Makoto whispered
"As Ren has told you, as much as he could, when he 'blanks out' while outside a Palace, he is visiting my sister's for some assistance with his multiple Persona." Lavenza explained "And how there is only so much he can tell you if such aspects. Well, I am a secret to my sisters as well. Let's call me... Their supervisor."
"'Supervisor'? Like... in a workplace?" Ann asked.
"In a sort of similar standing, yes." She nodded. "I met Ren before they appeared before him. Letting him know of them before hand. And giving him extra support from the shadows. I quickly grew feelings for him, but I did not wish to make anything official until I could see you all. Out of respect. And I have been unable to do so before hand, because my sister's must not know I am watching them. Hence my disguise and meeting you here."
...
"Wow, that's... wow." Makoto admitted as she heard that, holding her head.
"It's like a secret work place romance." Ann whispered, thinking about some of her dramas
"You said 'sisters'?" Shiho asked inquisitively.
"Yes." She nodded
"Interesting." Shiho muttered.
"I'm sorry I couldn't mention this before. There wasn't a right time." Ren apologised.
"It *does* mean that we have another person to get to know." Makoto commented. "Not to be rude."
"No offence taken." Lavenza responded. "And this vacation should give us more than enough time." She bowed
"She looks around the same age as Futaba." Ann noted
"The person this form is based on, a person who does not exist in this world, is the same age as Futaba Sakurai, yes."
"Oh, good to know." Makoto answered. "It's not going to be that weird."
"Of course not." Lavenza responded. "Plus... I've always wanted to visit Hawaii."
"So.. what now?" Ren asked
"I say that we have this time to enjoy the remaining few days here. Plus, find Ryuji and Yusuke." Shiho offered. "Maybe get to know each other, Lavenza?"
"I think that'll be fine." Lavenza answered.
"Then let's go." Ann responded as they walked together.
Ren sighed in relief as he saw his girlfriends slowly getting along. It was a relief... and an even bigger relief because this meant he didn't have to lie about the MetaVerse. As much as needed, at least. Ryuji and Yusuke, they were talking to a girl with auburn hair, just talking. Almost like they knew her. "Wait, is that?" Ren asked as he saw Haru sitting down and talking with them. How had he forgotten that she was here too? But... she wasn't on the plane with them.
Was she?
She was a third year like Makoto.
...
Wasn't there something they did last time? Trying to get girls numbers?
Well, as least the two where saved from embaressment now
"Ah, you're here." Yusuke spoke as they turned to see their friends.
"Oh, hey guys." Ryuji turned, but looked a little awkward.
"Something happen, Ryuji?" Makoto asked.
"Well, are you all okay? Cause... err." Ryuji asked.
"We've settled it." Ann answered calmly and simply.
"See? I told you there was nothing to worry about." Yusuke reassured.
"Who was the girl?" Shiho asked.
"Oh, she was from Shujin. She said that she was a third-year." Ryuji explained.
"Hey Haru!" Ren waved with a smile, shocking the others
"Dude... Do you know EVERYONE?" Ryuji asked
"Huh? Oh, Ren! It's you." Haru turned and then smiled as she saw him along with other students of their school. "I'm sorry, I didn't realise. You're friends with Ryuji and Yusuke?"
"Yeah, it's good to see yo-oomph." Ren explained before grunting, from the sudden hug she gave him The group looked at him and Haru. Though Lavenza seemed to be enjoying the sight.
"Dude!" Ryuji exasperated as he saw this.
"What?" Ren blinked
"It's been too long." Haru admitted. "I thought that you didn't want to visit my garden anymore."
"Oh, sorry Haru." Ren blinked
"'Garden'?" Ann asked.
"Haru asked the principal to have a garden on the roof." Makoto clarified quickly so there was no confusion.
"It's alright. As long as you remembered. Oh, forgive me, I'm Haru Okumura." She turned to Ren's group she hadn't introduced herself too. "It is nice to meet you all."
"Nice to meet you too." Lavenza, Ann and Shiho responded.
"How did you get here?" Makoto asked.
"My father, he said that to 'save time' I would come privately." Haru answered.
"Oh, right. You are the daughter of the head of Okumara Food.s." Makoto nozzed
"Really? Oh my god." Shiho double-took in shock.
"It's nothing that amazing. I'm just trying to be a good daughter and gardener." Haru admitted.
"So... does that mean your private jet got you here before or with us?" Makoto asked.
"Oh, more or less the same time." Haru explained. "I didn't want to miss school."
"Makes sense." Ren nodded
"I'm sorry, I must be getting in your way for this holiday." Haru apologised.
"Of course not." Yusuke answered. "It's certainly surprising, but it is also good to meet new friends."
"Oh, you're not from our school." Haru smiled
"No, I'm not." Yusuke answered calmly.
"So, aside from standing under the shade of this palm tree, anyone for a drink? Kinda getting thirsty." Ryuji offered.
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