Ryuji huffed as he made his way to class, annoyed that it had to take longer than he wanted. They were found by one of the teachers, who told them off and took them to the guidance counsellor's office, were they ran into Kamoshida too. He really wanted to all the man out for what happened at the Palace but Kamoshida was acting like hadn't seen them at all. Besides, he was still worried about Namine and it really wasn't helped that the teachers were being idiots. Instead of catching a hint, they just kept scolding them and it took Namine almost passing out for them to finally let him take her to the nurse like he wanted to do all along. The girl really was exhausted, but then he wasn't so surprised, a lot had happened…
''I see...so that's why...'' Kawakami trailed off when the nurse finished explaining everything.
She had assumed that Namine had actually skipped class, leaving her rather annoyed at that their thoughts of the girl were true. Said feelings turned to guilt as the teacher came across the nurse's office, the woman told her everything and it turned out Namine had been asleep here the whole time. The girl did look exhausted; she had to admit, what on earth happened?
Ann hid a frown as she watched Kawakami introduce the new student. It had been the same girl she had encoutered earlier, to her surprise. There had been all sorts of rumors around the new transfer student. Sure, it was a unexpected for the school to allow a student on probation for assault to enter the school but come on-the girl hadn't even started school and yet they all acted like they knew so much about her. It made no sense.
''So that's the criminal?''
''She doesn't seem so bad...''
''I know, she's pretty...''
''Are you kidding?! She's definitely bad news. I mean come on, she even came late on her first day.''
''Yeah, just keep away from her! I heard she'll attack anyone who makes her mad!''
''I guess it makes sense. She was arrested for assault, after all.''
Weren't teachers supposed to keep these kinds of details private? Why would anyone do this?
She was so friendly before too...Ann could admit to being surprised at how well they seemed to be getting along earlier. It was nice to meet someone her age and even from her school who wouldn't treat her the same way everyone did. Something had to have happened between the time they met and Kamoshida taking her-besides, the girl seemed a bit too pale. Then again, this terrible start likely wasn't helping her...
Ann held back a surge of annoyance at the students' attitude. It was always like this...
Namine held back a sigh as she took her seat behind Ann. What was the point of even starting a new school if this was going to happen anyway? A part of her had expected something like this to happen but definitely not so soon. How did the word spread out anyway? She hadn't even started yet and already people were intent on avoiding her like the plague...
The girl found herself wondering what Ann thought of these-if she believed the rumors even as the talk continued. Was this really going to be it? Her fresh start was ruined before it could even begin. Why did this have to happen?
Shakigg her head, she knew there was nothing else to be done about it, people hadn't listened to her before. So why would that change?
Trying to tune the out wasn't really working, but she had the sinking suspicion that she would be getting lots of practice.
Everyone looked at Kawakami as she called that it was time to begin the lesson...
''I don't know who spread your record, it was a surprise. That definitely wasn't me.'' Kawakami stated as she and Namine stood near the class. She sighed ''Why did this have to happen to me...''
Namine chose not to respond to that, ignoring the flare of irritation and bitterness that flared at the moment. Really though, wasn't this selfish? She was the one who had to deal with this terrible reputation. ''...Guess it's just the way it is, Sensei. There's no changing this now.''
''You may have a point there.'' The teacher agreed. ''Anyway, there's something I think you should know.'' Namine gave her a curious look. ''The nurse said Sakamoto brought you to her. Word of advice: Don't get involved with him.''
''I...heard some bad talk about him before; I never caught a reason for it though.'' She admitted, thinking back to a few of the whispers in class earlier.
''Well...it's kind of a long story. He's a delinquent now, but he was different back when he was in...'' Kawakami stopped and frowned. ''...what're you doing there?''
Namine followed her line of sight, seeing Ryuji walk up to them.
''You still haven't removed that hair dye, Sakamoto? Good grief, if you weren't so stubborn...'' The teacher started.
''Yeah, yeah, I'll get to it.'' Ryuji's dismissive tone showed that this was a long standing argument. ''Come on, I want to talk to you.''
The girl went along with him, seeing no reason not to comply. She had a feeling Ryuji wasn't the person they were making him out to be and he had been kind to her. It was only fair to give a chance. Besides, she knew just what he wanted to talk about too...
''So...we weren't dreaming this morning, right?'' He asked a few minutes later.
Namine shook her head ''It seems unbelievable but I think it's safe to say that all happened.''
''Well then, how come Kamoshida acted like nothing happened?''
''Remember those shadow things Morgana talked about? He said that was one of them.''
''Oh, right, right...'' He nodded. ''...man, it feels like the cat dumped a boat load of info on us. It's almost too much...''
''I know what you mean-it'll take time for all of that to sink in.'' Namine returned.
He nodded, crossing his arms as remembered the red jacket he'd seen before they left ''There's so many things we don't know...I want to go back.''
''Wait, even after...?''
''Yeah, I know it's dangerous. You're the reason we made it out alive but still...'' Ryuji paused, looking frustrated. ''...there's something fishy going on there.''
Namine didn't doubt that but there was another problem with this idea ''Well, I can see why you'd think so but neither of us know how we got there.''
''True...maybe we're missing something though. Did anything weird happen before we got there?'' Ryuji saw her mull this over before shrugging.
''Not that I can think of.''
Ryuji sighed ''Well, I guess it would take time...'' He paused. ''...so I guess you heard about me, huh? Like how she was telling you not to get involved.''
''Mm, but if you were half as bad you were made out to be, we wouldn't be here right now...I'd rather not just rely on what they say.'' Namine admitted. ''Besides...you heard about me too, right?''
''You kidding? It's practically the talk of the school.'' Ryuji scoffed. Not only had the girl saved his life twice in the Palace, she was much nicer than what people believed. They would know if they'd give her the light of day. ''I say it's a load of crap. Come on, you've hardly even gotten in this stinkin' place and suddenly, they've got you all figured out? I ain't buying it.''
The girl began to smile ''Well I guess that's one thing we have in common then. People just labeled us without even understanding a thing.''
Ryuji chuckled ''Heh, can't argue with that. Tell ya what, let's think on this. Meet me here tomorrow?''
''Sure.''
Namine had to explain things to Sojiro (naturally leaving the part about the Metaverse out). In the end, she had to settle by making up a story about stopping to buy some pain killers before having to avoid the rain and losing track of time.
Sojiro blinked ''Pain killers? But why would you...?''
She hadn't intended on explaining this before but there was no harm ''When the police interrogated me, one of them kept calling me a liar. I don't know who the man behind my arrest was but that guy obviously did. He didn't want to hear what I had to say. In the end, I guess he just lost it and wound up hitting me a few times.''
''What?!''
''Honestly, what happened from there is a bit of a blur at this point but I know they did help me after that.'' Namine almost pausex at the look of outrage on his face. ''Anyway, I've been taking some pain killers for that ever since.''
''...That's the first time I hear about this...'' Sojiro managed. ''...it does explain a few things your probation officer mentioned. Lousy little...anyway, no wonder you look tired, just go and rest up.''
After she fell asleep, she wound up dreaming of the blue prison again...
''Welcome back.'' Igor greeted as she approached the cell bars. The twin wardens Caroline and Justine stood nearby just like before.
''So...I know you said this place is called the Velvet Room but what exactly is it supposed to be?'' Namine inquired.
''You can consider it a sort of realm in between. It is located between consciousnesss and subconsciousness, between dream and reality.'' The man started. ''Cognition plays a vital role here-it even influences the very space of the Velvet Room. It appears however our guest perceives themselves. In your case, Trickster, this demonstrates how you feel imprisoned by the rules and expectations of society.''
Namine nodded, realizing it did make sense. She had been feeling that way for quite some time now.
Igor then went on ''I would like to congratulate you on your awakening. Removing your mask is not easy but is the first step towards your rehabiliation.''
''So-you know about what happened in the Palace?'' Namine clarified. What he said about cognition sounded like what Morgana described-was this place connected to the Metaverse?
''In a sense, yes.'' Igor stated as if reading her mind. Namine blinked and he chuckled ''Apologies, I should have mentioned this sooner. Your thoughts can be projected to us due to the room's unique abilities. But to answer your earlier question, yes we do. Awakening your Persona is a big and vital step for your rehabilitation.''
''You mentioned something about that but I'm not the one who needs rehabiliation-that man is.''
''That is certainly true but I do not speak of rehabilitation in the conventional sense.'' He returned. ''I speak of the rehabiliation intended to ensure that you are able to prevent the oncoming ruin.''
Her eyes widened ''Ruin?''
''That is why we are here.'' Igor stated. ''But it is a topic for another time-you should get some rest. I will tell you more soon.''
The next day...
Namine stopped thinking back on that exchange, knowing there was no use mulling it over now. He had promised to explain soon-at least it looked like Igor might be able to tell her more about the Metaverse. Yesterday had been rather overwhelming but it would be nice to get some answers...
She glanced at the spare umbrella she borrowed from Sojiro after hearing part of the forecast and was only thankful she did so as it was already raining by the time she left Leblanc. As she is turning the corner into another street, another person comes from a different direction, almost bumping into her in their rush.
''Sorry about that...'' The new arrival started. Namine blinked, recognizing Ann, who seemed just as surprised to see her.
''Here.'' She held the umbrella up to cover them both. ''You're trying to get out of the rain, huh?''
''Yeah...'' The girl smiled sheepishly. ''...thanks, I meant to pick an umbrella but it just slipped my mind later...''
''That's okay, come on.''
As they entered the school, neither missed the whispers that were coming their way. Most seemed dismayed that the two were apparently hanging out together and others seemed to be expecting it. The blonde's eyes narrowed a bit at this but Namine's expression remained unreadable, making the former ask. ''Doesn't that bother you?''
''Yeah, but there's no stopping it, is there?If even the teachers treat this like it was nothing, they'd hardly listen to us. I guess you have some kind of trouble with rumours too, huh?''
Ann nodded ''It's...complicated but...''
The girl didn't miss her clear reluctance to explain so she added ''Well, so far I haven't seen any reason to follow the crowd now. Do you?'' She smiled as Ann gave her a grateful look, taking that as an answer. ''That decides it then.''
The two decided to have lunch together. Ann took the opportunity to introduce Namine to her best friend, a girl with black hair and dark brown eyes by the name of Suzui Shiho.
''I'm glad someone else doesn't simply believe in the rumours. Ann has been dealing with those for years.'' Shiho stated, surprising the girl. ''It all started because of her looks and it just escalated since last year.''
''Really? How come?'' Namine inquired.
''I'm one quarter american, quarter finnish and half japanese.'' Ann admitted. ''Weird, right?''
''I think it's neat that you come from those different cultures.'' The answer left both her and Shiho pleasantly surprised. ''It most definitely isn't something to be ashamed, no matter what people say. That must have made for some interesting time for you though...''
Ann's lips twitched ''You can say that...''
Namine's brow furrowed as she noticed the bruise on Shiho's face ''That looks painful. Are you okay, Suzui-san?''
''Y-yes, it's fine...'' Shiho said with a small smile, though she had to suppress a wince which neither girl missed. ''...it's just a little accident from practice.''
''Practice?''
''Shiho's a member of the volley ball team,'' Ann informed, getting an 'ah' of comprehension from the other girl then.
''Kamoshida-sensei takes the training really seriously.'' Shiho went on to say, missing how Namine stiffened at this.
Kamoshida was their coach? Namine suddenly thought back on yesterday's events.
That...could really be a problem.
Shaking her head, Namine gave Shiho her juice box. ''This could help. Normally, I'd go with an ice pack but this is pretty cold.''
Shiho gave her a curious look, deciding that it couldn't do any harm. If anything, it felt rather nice against her bruised skin. ''Thank you.''
Ann smiled at the girl before Shiho continued ''So how are you doing, Hyakuya-san? Dealing with this kind of talk can't be easy, especially since it's just your first day.''
''Well, I hate that things got this messy but I'll figure it out. No use crying over spilled milk now.'' Namine returned. Sure it was upsetting but she had been doing plenty of introspection. Something about Arsène's presence made her feel better, like she was at peace in a way.
Perhaps it had to do with her removing her mask but she felt...free. Her family and friend's betrayal had weighed heavily on her but now...It was as if she could see things in a new perspective and it felt nice. Unexpectedly, yesterday's chaos had been quite a boon to her.
''That's good, this kind of attitude is definitely going to help you.'' Ann smiled approvingly.
Shiho agreed ''You shouldn't ever let this get you down. Like I said we have our experience with this, I didn't care about the talk surrounding Ann so I got to know her and now we're best friends.''
''Thanks, I hope you're right, Suzui-san.''
Ryuji looked up at the sound of footsteps, looking at the entrance to the roof where he saw Namine entering. His expression turned relieved as the girl walked over, having sent her a text earlier, asking her to meet here.
''Hey, ah, you doin' better?''
''Yeah, plenty...yesterday was just a little too much...'' Namine stated. ''...but I guess you want to talk about it?''
''Yeah...'' The boy paused. ''...I still want to trying going back there after all.'' He explained about the jacket he had seen before, which in fact belonged to the volleyball team.
Namine looked alarmed, catching on ''So someone might still be there?''
''Exactly.'' In his opinion, her clear concern over this proved how much of a kind person she was. ''We should still find out just what it was all about too. Whaddya say? You up for helping me out?''
She nodded after a moment. Sure, it was dangerous and she was a bit miffed with the students. It still rankled that they thought they knew everything about her.
But she also remembered how dangerous that place was. They'd only made it because of Arsène. ''Let's do it.''
The two headed back to the alley after school. They stumbled a bit at first but Ryuji remembered hearing a navigator yesterday, which lead to them checking Namine's phone.
As it turned out, the strange app she hadn't been able to get rid off seemed to be a nav of sorts. It was likely the reason they landed in the castle to begin with.
Once they had it figured out, Namine opened the history of the app which displayed: Kamoshida Suguru, Shujin Academy, Castle before pressing the activation button.
Moments later, the air shifted and they were soon back at the gates of the castle. A sight that made Ryuji perk up in satisfaction.
''All right, it worked!'' He blinked. ''Whoa, you changed back.''
''Oh...'' Namine also noted that her clothes had indeed changed back into the dress from their previous visit.
''You look good...anyway, come on, let's go!''
''Hold it.'' He turned to the girl in surprise. ''Remember what happened before? Going right through the entrance is a terrible idea, let's find another way.''
In a few minutes, they managed to break in through a window before finding themselves in a dark room. Its door was slightly open, leading to the hall. Namine made a point of ensuring that there was no one in sight before motioning to Ryuji and they moved out.
It was as the two left another room that they heard screams in the distance, making them stiffen in surprise.
''What the hell was that?!'' Ryuji exclaimed.
Namine's blue eyes were wide ''It looks like you were right...''
''Damn, we've gotta hurry!'' He cried.
It was as they neared a room with a big door that they found someone running around on the second floor.
''Morgana!''
''Oh, Namine and Blondie, you came back!''
'Blondie' growled ''Oi, my name is...!''
Morgana spoke over the boy ''What're you doing here?''
''Well...'' Namine's words died in her mouth when she spotted a black and red substance dividing into three before them.
''Careful, we've got enemies!'' Morgana warned, holding his scimitar at the ready.
She nodded back, preparing her own weapon. The shadows formed into three knights like the ones they faced yesterday.
''Zorro, show your might!''
''Arsene!''
The swashbuckler and gentleman thief appeared in a fiery blaze. The former proceeded to send one of the knights spinning with a Garu, making it drop its weapon. The latter lunged at a second one while Morgana slashed it and Namine struck the weapon less shadow down. Arsene then destroyed one with Eiha, the red light attack, while the rest disposed of the other two.
The three were then startled by another scream. Ryuji grit his teeth ''Hey, Monamona!''
''It's Morgana!''
''Whatever! You know where those screams are coming from?''
''I think so, probably from the prisoners in the basement.'' The cat replied.
''So that bastard really was keeping people locked up,'' Ryuji fumed. ''He can't get away with this!''
Morgana watched him go for a moment before looking at Namine ''Any reason he seems to hate Kamoshida so much?''
''No idea...''
''Oi, you two, come on!'' Ryuji called.
Along the way they got to learn more from Morgana, who explained how the Metaverse was the realm of people's hearts. Here desires and beliefs become reality, so when strong desires are twisted, a Palace is formed. Kamoshida's Palace formed as a result of his own ego and his rising influence.
Morgana had affirmed Namine's suspicion that Kamoshida wouldn't know what was going on here, which had stemmed from the fact that he had acting as if nothing happened in school.
''So anyone can have a Persona?'' Ryuji asked.
''It depends on will.'' Morgana started. ''Personas are awakened to one's strength of heart. This can happen in any number of ways, but the most important part is being able to truly face yourself and accept every part of it. That's never easy.''
''So is that what it was like with you two?'' He continued.
''Well, I was fighting for my life when I awakened Zorro. I think it was just that I was determined to keep going no matter what and that pushed me forward.'' The cat looked at Namine then. Now that Ryuji brought it up, he found himself curious to know what the experience had been like from her view point.
''I know the feeling.'' The girl admitted. ''It was like I just had to do something yesterday...it felt like this huge weight has been holding me down for weeks now. It was even worse considering...'' Her expression flickered with sadness, making her companions pause. ''...something that happened in the past. I was still dealing with it-actually, I guess I still am...but everything just went to hell. But I know I did what I had to and I'd do it again, I would regret doing it differently.''
''You've been through a lot, huh?'' Morgana remarked, not without sympathy. He may not know her story but those words carried a lot of weight. ''Still, good on you-it sounds like you really made all the difference back then.''
''Well, I'm glad. It's lucky we met you though, we'd probably be still plenty lost otherwise.''
''Happy to help!'' He beamed.
''Yeah, you are pretty cool for a cat.'' Ryuji added.
Morgana seemed more pleased by this until the last of these words sank in ''Hey wait, I'm not a cat!''
The boy blinked ''Uh, you're not? But...''
Morgana watched him wave a hand towards his form ''Oh, right-my bad, I just reacted. There's a reason I'm in this form...'' He was distracted when he saw Ryuji fiddling absently with a gun. ''...whoa, where'd you get that?''
''I found a shop that sells models yesterday. I know I can't fight those things but I can at least try to scare them off.''
''That's actually not a bad idea.'' Morgana remarked. ''Hm...give it to Namine for a bit. That's more useful than you think.''
Ryuji blinked ''What do you mean?''
''Well...'' The cat noticed a shadow coming down the hall opposite theirs and smirked. ''...perfect, I'll just show you.''
Morgana demonstrated how to knock the shadow down before initiating what he called a Hold Up, where he aimed a slingshot at the enemy and had Namine levelling the gun at the shadow. He explained how they could use this chance to negotiate with the shadows, earning money or items. If they weren't willing to cooperate, they would either flee or be destroyed. The cat went on to promise that he would show them how to ambush enemies at the soonest opportunity.
''Man, I never thought it would be this good...'' Ryuji admitted as they went back on their way to the basement.
''Remember, your heart makes it real here.'' Morgana stated.
''That's handy...'' Namine trailed off.
''No kidding, since you know so much? What's up with the new clothes?'' Ryuji inquired.
''That gear's a symbol of a Persona.'' Morgana informed. ''I call it Soul Armour. It works to defend a person from the distortions in a palace.''
''Distortions?'' Namine looked at him curiously.
''Well...it's not easy to explain.'' The feline stopped to consider his next words. ''You know how I told you Kamoshida's desires were twisted? The distortions are a side effect created because of that. It creates this twisted power that bends those it affects to the Palace ruler's will.''
The girl frowned while Ryuji looked unnerved ''Wait, you mean I...?''
''It hasn't happened so far so I think you'll be okay for now.'' The cat stated. ''You wanted to get to the basement, right? It's pretty close.''
True to word, they were at the spot in a few minutes. She raised an eye at the plaque above it, which had the words ''...Kamoshida's training hall of love?''
''The heck?'' Ryuji uttered while Morgana seemed just as confused. Frowning, the blond pushed the door open and they walked in.
It was a big area which led to a number of cells. All the cells had teenagers who were dressed up in what Ryuji recognized as the volleyball team uniform. Some were forced to run on treadmills for water, others were bound upside down as a cannon fired volley balls in their stomach and others were even being hit by shadows to force them to keep moving.
All in all, the grim state of things left the three shocked and more than a little disturbed.
''Dammit, this is even worse than I thought!'' Ryuji exclaimed, Namine seemed stunned speechless by the sight before them.
Morgana's eyes narrowed, he had heard the screams plenty before but he never would've guessed this was the reason...
''Come on, we've got to free them!''
He blinked ''Wait, that's why you wanted to come?'' Morgana had tried to ask earlier but Ryuji had wound up urging them to hurry. Through all that happened, he'd forgotten to check again. ''There's no use...''
''How can you say that?! Ah, never mind!'' He ran closer to the cells.
Morgana groaned ''Would it kill him to listen for a minute?! This isn't going to do any good!''
Namine looked at him ''What do you mean it's no use?''
''Those players aren't real, barely any different from shadows, in fact. They're a part of Kamoshida's cognition.''
''What? So then...'' Namine was distracted when they caught up with a frustrated Ryuji, who told them that the players seemed completely resigned and they didn't seem to want to leave.
''That's what I was trying to say.'' Morgana stated. ''Remember what I mentioned about distortions and the Palace ruler's cognition influencing all those present? It applies here. Those players are like a part of the Palace. They do whatever Kamoshida wants. There's no point trying to help them get free, they'll never listen.''
Ryuji cursed ''So what now...hey, Namine?'' He raised an eye, noticing the girl's troubled look; she seemed to be rather alarmed by something.
''Morgana, if the Shadow's a part of someone and this place reflects how Kamoshida sees the school...'' The girl paused, thinking briefly of Shiho. ''...wouldn't that mean...''
''...You caught on, huh? You really are sharp, Namine.'' The cat admitted. ''I think it's safe to say you're right.''
''What're you two talking about?'' Ryuji demanded, not wanting to be left out of the loop.
''She means there's a high chance he's abusing the players in the real world.'' Morgana informed.
His eyes widened ''Wait...that reminds me, there's rumours going on about Kamoshida and the volley ball team. Some people said weird things about the training...but no one did anything so I thought it was just talk since nothing else happened...'' He clenched a fist. ''...I should've known that bastard would sink so low! I know some of those people and I memorized the others' faces, I'll ask them about this when we get back. Kamoshida can't get away with this.''
''Then it's time we head back.'' Morgana stated.
Unfortunately though, they were found out by the time they reached the entrance hall.
Shadow Kamoshida leered at the trio from his perch on the higher floor while his shadow knights closed in on them. ''You fools must truly have a death wish to crash into my castle again.''
''Kamoshida...'' Ryuji growled.
The enemies stepped closer, Namine and Morgana prepared to fight. Shadow Kamoshida chuckled ''Well, well, struggle all you want, pathetic scum. My knights will dispose of you!''
Namine dodged a spear before slashing the attacker's arm. Morgana used his sword to stop another weapon hitting him before summoning Zorro and sending the enemy crashing back with a Garu. Moments later, Arsene lunged at a Shadow and destroyed with a close up double round of Eiha while Zorro slashed another one. A third knight got to hit it with the shaft of the spear and a fourth one tackled Arsene, leaving the persona users winded from the damage the entities took.
The battle continued at this rate, with Namine and Morgana's teamwork slowly improving. They gave as good as they got, with Morgana taking a moment occasionally to heal either one of them.
Trouble was, the numbers were against them. The shadows were slowly but surely closing in. A knight ran and tackled Arsene's side, knocking the Persona down. Namine also fell as a result and Arsene disappeared. Morgana tried to help her before the shadows took advantage of this lapse in their force but a couple of knights had already closed his path, one hitting him with the shaft of his spear, making him crash down while Zorro vanished and the second Shadow pinned him down.
''Guys!'' Ryuji cried out as Shadow Kamoshida laughed.
''You see! You had no chance in the first place, scum!''
''They're strong...'' Morgana grunted.
Shadow Kamoshida smirked ''Hmph, this was bound to be the outcome.'' His eyes fell on Namine, getting one of the Shadows to bring her closer. ''It really is a shame...you're quite a beauty, not nearly on the same level as my princess, of course. I can't wait to have my way with you.'' The girl glared back. ''It would be fun to break that defiant attitude...''
''Get away from her!'' Ryuji snapped.
"Right now, you creep!" Morgana added.
''Try and make me.'' The self-proclaimed king responded. ''Well, not that there is anything you can do. I'm the clear winner here, as it should be.'' He snapped his fingers; a Shadow appeared before Ryuji then.
Namine's eyes widened ''Ryuji, get out of here!''
''What?'' He uttered, stunned. She was still more worried about him now? He couldn't just leave. ''But I can't...that's...''
''That's right, just run away, Sakamoto.'' Shadow Kamoshida sneered. ''You're a powerless piece of trash, after all. What else can you do?'' The boy glowered back. ''You just rushed in here even, acting like you could change anything even when you're helpless, huh?'' He ignored the boy's protest. ''I bet you never would've gotten anywhere if it wasn't for those two friends of yours. So this is how the track traitor ends up...how pathetic.''
''Track traitor?'' Morgana echoed.
Shadow Kamoshida looked from the cat to Namine, picking up on their confusion. ''Oh, so you two came along without even knowing a thing about him? Here's how it is. Shujin had a track team a year ago, this fool was the star runner. He attacked me so, naturally I defended myself and broke his leg, then disbanded the track team. He caused his teammates so much pain and suffering...''
''It was totally fault, you damn bastard! It was because you provoked me and you know it!'' Ryuji snapped.
''So that's why...'' Namine muttered as she and Morgana stared at the boy sadly. They knew something was off there. Aside from the fact that they couldn't trust the Shadow, Ryuji just didn't seem like the kind of person who'd hurt someone for no reason.
''Tell it to someone who cares.'' Shadow Kamoshida went on ''It doesn't matter what you say, I'm the king of Shujin. I hold all the power here, you're just a fool who went out of their place. You made it all too easy for me.''
''What're you talking about?'' Ryuji demanded.
''Isn't it obvious? I needed a way to get rid of your damn team, you were getting all the fame I wanted. You were the biggest threat to my rise to power. Then I was told about you and it all fell into place.'' The Shadow smirked. ''After that, all I had to do was make a little plan and you walked right into it.''
''Then...'' The meaning was becoming clear for all but Ryuji had to ask. ''...you...you did it on purpose?!''
''That's right, so what? I said it before and I'll say it again, you're nothing but a worthless piece of trash. You had no place getting what I wanted...''
Ryuji had despised Kamoshida since that day but he had never thought the man would sink so low. He planned this all along? All the suffering he and his teammates had to go through? It was all just because of his goals?
Why did he even come here? Namine had been right to be worried. This Palace was too dangerous. Even having a Persona didn't make one invincible...and now he had gone and gotten her and Morgana in this situation...he had never felt so powerless before. Would Kamoshida just get away with everything again?
''Just shut up already!''
Namine's voice brought attention to the girl, who was glaring daggers at the self-proclaimed king. She was sick of hearing him talk, he'd not only hurt Ryuji badly, but he was also hurting his students when he should be looking out for them. And if that wasn't bad enough, he was all too proud of his actions. What kind of teacher was this?
''Who do you think you are? It's not up to you to decide a person's worth!'' She went on. ''You have no right abusing your power like this. The only piece of trash here is you. Ryuji, you don't have to take this lying down, he's wrong! He's wrong about everything!''
''Yeah...'' The boy let out, glowering at their enemy. ''...you mother fucking son of a bitch! I lost everything because of you, you're going to pay, big time!''
Just then, he was hit by a sharp wave of pain that made him hold his head.
'You made me wait quite a while.' A new voice spoke to his very soul 'You seek revenge, correct? Then let us form a pact. Since your name has been disgraced already, why not the hoist the black flag and wreck havoc? The other you who exists within desires it. I am thou, thou art I...There is no turning back! The skull of rebellion is your flag henceforth!'
Ryuji's eyes turned gold and a silver skull mask appeared on his face. He removed it, causing blood to spill. It was soon consumed by azure flames that consumed Ryuji, forming into a pirate. The entity had a skull for a head, towering above everyone as it rode on a boat. Ryuji was now clad in a black biker's outfit, with a red scarf, yellow gloves and plated knuckles.
''Right on...'' The teen grinned. ''...wassup, persona? This rocks! Blast away, Captain Kidd!''
The new Persona needed further prompting. He blasted the shadows nearby with lightning from its cannon, destroying them and freeing Morgana in the process. He then launched more lightning blasts from its arm cannon, disposing of all enemies in the blast radius. Two knights tried to hit him but Captain Kidd simply flew back, making them miss before blasting them. As they tried to attack, he rushed them, making them collide with the boat in the process. Likewise, Ryuji took care of enemies on his end. Having discovered a new weapon just like Namine had, he was quick to put his new club to good use.
Shadow Kamoshida made to summon more shadows as Ryuji and Morgana glared at him. He didn't realize what they were after until Captain Kidd tackled the shadow restraining Namine, easily catching the girl as the enemy was sent flying.
She smiled ''Thank you. '' Captain Kidd inclined his head in return before everyone looked at the shadows. Namine summoned Arsene, who proceeded to destroy the returning knight and its horse. Morgana cut a shadow before Ryuji struck it on the head, finishing it off. The three leveled their weapons at the remaining enemies, attacking simultaneously before a lightning blast from Captain Kidd and a burst of curse magic courtesy of Arsene finished the battle.
Shadow Kamoshida grit his teeth ''Lousy little...it matters not. You're still in my castle. I am king, I control everything that goes down here.''
''Oh yeah? Well we seem to be doing a good job of ruining your plans then!'' Morgana pointed out, making him scowl.
''You'll regret this soon.'' He warned, just as a familiar figure appeared next to him.
It was Ann. Now she wore a purple bikini, a cat-eared diadem and slippers. She smiled at the sight of Shadow Kamoshida and leaned against him.
''Wow! What a meow-velous girl!'' Morgana exclaimed.
''Takamaki-san?'' Namine let out, bewildered.
Ryuji looked just as thrown for a loop ''What the heck are you doing with him?!''
Morgana blinked ''You know her?''
''She's a classmate.'' Namine said slowly. ''But this...''
They didn't know what was going on, but Namine couldn't shake the feeling that something was off. She remembered what happened yesterday when Kamoshida found them, and Ann's saddened expression after she got on the car.
It just made this seem all the more wrong.
''Ah damn, the bastard got away!'' Ryuji grimaced, seeing that Shadow Kamoshida had taken advantage of their distraction to escape, with the girl quickly having followed him.
Morgana frowned ''Never mind, it's better if we go too. Awakening a persona is exhausting, we need to leave before we find more trouble.''
Soon they were back at the Palace's entrance, all around relieved at how things turned out.
''Oh hey, my clothes...'' Ryuji blinked, taking his Soul Armor in.
''It's like Namine's, this will protect you from the distortions of the palace.'' Morgana stated.
''Huh...'' He trailed off. ''...that was something else, right?''
''Yeah, way to fight back. That sure showed him.'' Namine smiled.
Ryuji grinned back, grateful for the praise ''Ah well, thanks! You guys were great too...''
Morgana just smiled in return, hearing him go on ''So what was that about? I've known Takamaki for years but that was weird...really weird. Was the rumour that she with that bastard true?''
''I'd have to say probably no.'' Morgana stated. ''That was most likely the princess Kamoshida mentioned. If anything, I get the feeling that she's like the prisoners, a part of his cognition.''
That sounded more believable to them, especially since they had seen how the girl acted in the real world. Ryuji wondered if he could get her help in dealing with Kamoshida. Morgana crossed his arms ''So you said something about talking to the prisoners' real selves before?''
''Yeah, now that I know what's going on, I'm not leaving things like this. They're probably too scared to talk, but we can stop this.''
''Don't be surprised if they're not too open to the idea,'' The cat warned. ''It's pretty likely that what we saw down there reflects their real state even more than it seemed.''
''Yeah, I don't see them being open to this either but the least we can do is try.'' Namine remarked. ''Leaving things now doesn't sit right with me either, no one deserves this treatment. What're you going to do, Morgana?''
''There's something I need to find here. I'm narrowing the area down but that's about it so far...I might see you guys soon though.''
''All right, good luck then. If you need any help...'' She started.
''Thanks, Namine, I might take you up on that. Good luck to you two.''
''See ya around.'' Ryuji added.
He watched the two leave via the app, thoughtful for a few moments. ''Hmm...I'll tell them some more when we meet again. They wouldn't leave things this way. No need to rush it, they might not listen after all this anyway.''
Ryuji surprised Namine by taking her to a ramen shop, more so when he admitted that he had wanted to do this since yesterday but she was too tired at the time.
He grinned as two bowls of ramen were set for them. ''Eat up, it's my treat.'' The blond waved off her following thanks with ''This is the least I can do. You've helped me out big time even when you didn't have to...like standing up for me back there and you hardly even knew me. That means a lot, y'know?''
''Well, like I said, I didn't like to just believe in all that talk. Besides, you helped me right back so no big deal.''
''You can just say we are friends, right?'' Namine backtracked a little, missing his relief at this. ''If you're okay with it...you know with all the talk about me...''
''Oh, that stuff?'' Ryuji rolled his eyes, his mind had already been made up. Namine's earlier words and actions merely helped make that choice much faster. Besides, she had gone back to the Palace with him to help even with the students badmouthing her. That said a lot about her character. ''You bet we're friends! You're way too kind for any of that to be true, how did you get a record in the first place though?''
''Well...'' She proceeded to explain everything. How she was coming home one night to find the man who was trying to force himself on a woman, how the woman had asked for help and how she intervened. She hadn't even pushed him all that much but he had been drunk and stumbled, cutting himself when he fell. He sued her, leading her life falling apart into ruin...
''Are you kidding me?!'' He exploded after she was finished. ''The prick even got them believing everything too? What the hell?! I figured that talk was all lies but this is too much.''
''I guess it's just something we have in common then.'' Namine offered, not expecting him to get angry for her. It felt kind of nice though. ''You're not the person everyone thinks you are and I'm stuck being falsely labelled like that.''
''True...'' Ryuji's grip tightened on his chopsticks. ''...it was Kamoshida's fault...I knew that but I never thought he was really out to get us all along. He ruined so many people just for fame! Me and my friends, my mom...Mom had to come to school through that mess...You wanna know the worst part? She felt guilty, thinking she wasn't taking good care of me. Dad left after he abused us too...She actually apologized to me when I'm the one who messed things up. It's just like he said, I played into his hands. I will make him pay for Mom and everyone of his victims.''
''You mean we will.'' Namine corrected. ''I said it, didn't I? I'll help; I don't want to let this continue. We're going to find just what's going on here and stop him.''
Ryuji smiled at her ''Thanks a lot.''
Then something in the air seemed to change...
I am thou, thou art I
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Chariot Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
Namine had no idea what this feeling was but it seemed significant. It was as if she'd gained a new strength...
Namine woke up in the Velvet Room again that night, going up to the cell and facing Igor, Caroline and Justine.
''Welcome, Trickster.'' He greeted. ''You're making excellent progress. Forming bonds with others will not only increase your power.''
She blinked ''So that's what it was back there...''
''You've sensed it, yes? Connecting to others will not only make you stronger but it will empower them as well.'' He returned. ''It will even help you heal from your pain as well. I understand you've had some trouble with the issue but how do you feel about your Persona now?''
''Wait, before I answer that...'' Namine stared. Him knowing about what happened in the Metaverse one thing but this? What he was hinting implied... '' Igor...you know what happened two years ago?''
''Naturally. You are our guest after all, we'd need the information we can get to help you.'' was the response.
''Oh...'' Lost in memories for a moment, Namine then remembered that he was waiting for an answer. ''...well, it did make me kind of uncomfortable sometimes when everything sank in. But I thought it over, after everything we've learned recently, I know this is different.'' She felt Arsene's presence closeby and instinctively turned back to see the gentleman thief behind her.''It was just the memories you stirred. You're a part of me, I know that. If anything, thanks to you, I feel...liberated. Like I can really see things so differently, so I know it's not anything like before...I'm sorry...''
'There is no need for apologies...' He cut her off. '...and no need to feel guilty either, there's nothing wrong with saying the truth. I'm satisfied as long as you understand that I'm willing to be your partner. This just signifies that you've truly moved on.' She nodded, smiling.
''Indeed...'' She looked back at Igor, who sounded pleased. ''...given your experience, I would think a little caution would certainly make sense. You've pulled through recent events to help in times of need, proving your strength. Times like this however, show your fortitude and strength of heart. This strength of heart may be one of your best assets. I have great expectations of you, Trickster.''
Then once again...
I am thou, thou art I
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Aeon Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
Aaand I think I'll break off here.
I wondered how much I should put in this chapter for a while but this seems like a good place to stop. I hope the chapter was all right.
Notes:
-I know it's different but I did some research on the Aeon tarot and I think its meaning works with what I have planned around Igor here. Besides, I received a suggestion about it being better for the Phantom Thieves to be the Fool Arcana just like SEES and the Investigation Team were before. I liked the idea a lot so I'm going to use it.
-I know it seems a bit strange here since you don't know but the last two years were hectic in a way for Namine, because of that incident I mentioned. She's had plenty of time to deal with what happened. Arsene just stirred up a few misgivings because of bad memories, but she pushed those aside to get to work. Namine nipped the issue in the bud here and killed any chance of it getting worse. Like I said, I'll explain about the incident behind said misgivings later down this arc so please bear with me for now.
-Part of the things I wrote down here consist of my own understanding about the game so I'm not really sure if it's all correct.
-I wanted to try changing things a little with Morgana, because I couldn't help think that if he gave the characters a little space, they might be more open to helping him. Yup, he's going to find them soon.