Much later after their return from the Palace, Namine woke up in the Velvet Room...
''It seems you wished to return, Trickster.'' Igor remarked.
''Yeah, we're getting ready to deal with that Palace but I need your help.''
''Certainly, if it within my power.''
''Well I'd like a little advice first...'' Namine admitted. ''...we came across this spirit. It somehow feels different from the others. It doesn't seem like much of a battler but I wanted to know more about it. My friend calls it a Treasure Demon.''
''You're fortunate to encounter one of those.'' Igor commented. ''You're correct to assume that it's different from your personas. Their prowess isn't in battle, but rather in what they can do in conjunction with other Personas.''
''Other...'' She blinked. ''...wait, like that fusion process you told me about?''
''Precisely.'' The man seemed pleased at the way this was going. ''In fact, I think it's a perfect time to give a demonstration. Why don't you start us off, Trickster? Choose one of your Personas to merge with the Treasure Demon.''
Namine thought this over, in one of her recents visits, Caroline and Justine told her that she would need to fulfill a request for them to advance the room's services. To bring them a Jack Frost which she found during their last excursion in Mementos. Reminding herself that she needed to keep Jack Frost aside for the twins, the girl settled on Mandrake and told them as such.
''Then let's begin.''
It was then that she saw the twins dragging over items things she hadn't noticed before. The surprise was in just what those things were: two guillotines.
''That's how this thing works?'' The girl blurted, she really didn't expect this. ''Are you sure this is okay?''
Caroline gave her an irritated look ''Don't be weak, Inmate! It's just the way things are.''
Fortunately, Justine was calmer than her twin. Truth be told, she did think some surprise was natural. Besides, this was a bit hypocritical. Caroline wasn't half as all right with the process as she was acting now. ''You're kind...or perhaps soft. As you can see, your personas have no qualms in the matter.''
True, neither Mandrake or the Treasure Demon were displaying fear or anything that would prove they had any disagreement here.
''Right...'' Namine let out a breath. ''...sorry, I'm the one looking for help. I should listen more.''
''So long as you keep that in mind.'' Caroline stated. ''Now then...''
They activated the guillotines and in a flash, both personas faded into luminous energy spheres which merged together. There stood a demon with the head of a monkey, a tiger's arms, a raccoon dog's body and a snake's tail.
''I am Nue.'' The chimera-like spirit uttered. ''I shall be your mask from here on out, Wild Card.'' With that, it disappeared.
''W-whoa...'' Already, she could sense the new Persona's power.
''Quite effective, isn't it?'' Igor received a nod. ''Did you wish to discuss something else?''
Namine blinked ''Ah, right...well I found a couple of cards back in the Palace.'' It happened back when she had to free the others from the trap so she forgot to Morgana. ''They had what I think are some of the skills we used in the Metaverse. I forgot to look into that considering we almost ran into Madarame's shadow after that. I don't have any idea what to do with them. Erm, I'm not sure I can get them now though...''
''Easy enough.'' Caroline waved her hand in a half-circle and the two cards appeared on her palm, much to Namine's surprise. ''This is nothing for us, Inmate. Those are Skill Cards, they teach Personas new abilities. It's actually simple, you just have to choose which of your personas should learn those.''
The cards displayed a green four pointed star with the word Media written and a blue half circle with the word Frei.
After thinking it over some, Namine eventually chose to give the skills to Arsene.
''Wise choice, while your abilities as a Wild Card are diverse, everything has its positive and negative sides. Arsene's abilities will be somewhat hampered but he will grow as your heart becomes stronger.'' Igor informed.
The girl nodded back, keeping the information in mind. She wasn't too surprised to learn that her abilities had such a drawback. Nothing was perfect after all.
''You're making good progress, I look forward to seeing how you proceed,'' Igor grinned. ''Now, Caroline, Justine-I believe our guest has something for the two of you.''
''Yes, Master. '' The twins walked closer to the girl and Justine spoke up ''It seems you found the spirit we asked for. I'll take it.''
The girl waved a hand and Namine felt something shift almost as if in response. ''To think you were able to finish this test...''
''You seem pleased.'' Caroline remarked, noting the slight smile on her twin's face. ''Don't let up, Justine. We're going to make sure the Inmate finishes up her penal labor.''
''Of course, it's our duty after all.'' The girl returned before looking at Namine. ''That being said, you've done well. Perhaps our master's growing trust in you is well-founded.''
''Ah, thanks...'' Namine had to wonder about the statement. ''...so what do you mean by penal labor exactly?''
''This was a test, Inmate. We're going to have you run some more requests for us.'' Justine replied. ''Do so and the Velvet Room's special abilities will be revealed. It will surely be an aid to your endeavors.''
''Sounds good.''
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 Strength Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
''We'll see about this again once when you get us a Shiisa with the skill Frei.'' Caroline informed.
The girl nodded back, thinking, she hadn't seen a Shadow with name before so it could likely be a while. Either way, these services were certain to be useful.
Namine wasn't sure how to act around Sojiro with what happened yesterday. The man had been on the phone when she got back yesterday and she had been too tired to think about it.
As luck would have it, she didn't have much to worry about.
''Hey, ah-sorry about yesterday. It wasn't a pleasant conversation...'' Sojiro trailed off, feeling bad for blowing her off since she had clearly been concerned.
''It's all right...'' She was admittedly surprised that he had done it but accepted the apology in the good grace it was given. ''...so is everything okay?''
''Yeah, nothing to worry about. It's all settled.''
''So I was wondering...'' Namine said after a moment. ''...I never would have thought curry would go so well with coffee before coming here. What gave you the idea?''
''Funny you should ask.'' Sojiro half-smiled. ''I've enjoyed coffee for years so I've been interested in trying different brews. The curry...the curry is actually a recipe from an old friend.''
''Heeh, then your friend must be an excellent cook, it's great!''
He chuckled ''If you think this is great, you have no idea. I'm not nearly as good as she was.''
''Oh, come on, you're just saying that!''
''No, really. Besides, you wouldn't believe how she cooked this thing up to start with...''
School passed uneventfully, Namine and Morgana were headed to meet Ann and Ryuji when the latter suddenly raised his head.
''Hey, look!''
It didn't take long to see the reason behind his surprise as there were Maika and Shiho not too far from the school's entrance.
''Suzui-san!''
The two looked at her in surprise before the girl who had her attention gave a small smile. ''Hi, Hyakuya-san.''
''Hi, what were you doing? Wait, are you ready to come back to school now?''
''About that, I...'' Shiho faltered.
Her mother took over, perhaps sensing the difficulties she was having here ''That was the idea but I doubt Shiho's ready just yet. I went to organize a few details with the principal. Shiho did want to go but...well, let's just say the attention from the students we came across wasn't helping.''
''I'm sorry.'' Her daughter mumbled.
''You don't need to feel bad.'' Remembering the rally gave Namine a good guess of what they might have heard. ''I think being apprehensive is understandable after all you've been through.''
''That's just what I said.'' Maika gave her a grateful smile. ''It really doesn't help that she hasn't been able to eat much back then either. We're still working to ensure her recovery. Just take your time, dear.''
''Take it easy.'' Namine advised, seeing that the girl was still troubled. ''If there's anyway I can help just ask. I know Ann would say the same, if she hasn't already.''
''Thank you...'' Shiho trailed off.
''Hey, I'm going to meet up with her and Ryuji now. You can come with, if you want.'' Namine suggested.
''I'd say yes normally but we're on our way somewhere.'' Shiho admitted. She paused to think for a few seconds before adding. ''But...I'd like to see you two. Can we exchange contact information?''
''Sure!'' The girls did just that. ''Just say when.''
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 Temperance Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
Ann smiled when Morgana told her about the meeting ''That sounds great, I'm definitely in!''
''Nice to hear she's getting better but man, you'd think those guys in school would cut Suzui some slack.'' Ryuji remarked.
''I'll say...''
''Oh-ho, there you are!''
The four started at the new voice, looking over to find a young woman with short black hair and brown eyes walking over to them. She began to smirk ''I was wondering how I'd find you.''
Ryuji raised an eye ''Uh, who're you?''
''Ohya Ichiko, I'm a reporter. I noticed you kids here the other day. You're looking into the rumors about Madarame, right?''
''Wait, you too?'' Namine wondered.
''Yup, there's a whole lot of those. People think his reputation's all stellar but I'm not convinced. I heard people even talked to the police before but they were blown off. There are some fishy things about him too so I want to try and find any skeletons in his closet, if you catch my drift.'' She replied. ''So, I'd really appreciate it if you could tell me anything that could help.''
''Oh...'' Ann couldn't help but think that they were definitely closing in on some skeletons.
''Just tell her we're still working on this.'' Morgana whispered.
''...ah, we just wanted to find out if they were true but we're barely getting things together. Just getting started.'' The girl played along.
''That's fine.'' Ohya didn't seem to be expecting an answer anyway. ''Here's my card, just keep it in mind if you do get anything.'' With that, she left.
''...Shouldn't we have told her something?'' Ann asked the others. ''I mean, there's still what Nakanohara told Namine.''
''It wouldn't do any good.'' Aforementioned girl stated. ''He tried to expose Madarame but he just got blacklisted, remember? I highly doubt he's the first one.''
''Right...never mind then.'' The girl sighed. ''Anyway, Mona, you said you'd tell us about that door yesterday.''
''Right, Lady Ann.'' The cat acknowledged. ''I just remembered that I saw a door just like it right in the shack.''
Ryuji blinked ''Wait, in that run down place?''
''Yeah, it surprised me too but that's all the more reason it stood out.'' Morgana returned. ''Here's the thing, Madarame has that thing locked so well that he believes it can't be open. Because of that, we can't do anything about that door.''
''So what do we do?''
''The only way I can see would be to open the door in front of Madarame.'' The cat replied.
''Will that really work?'' Ann looked skeptic.
''Trust me, I have it all planned out!''
''But how do we do that though?'' Namine wondered.
''That's just it. I've been thinking it over and the best I can come up with would be to have you two go back to model for Yusuke.'' Morgana stated.
''Wait, what?!'' Ann recoiled in alarm. ''No way!''
Morgana made a confused noise. Why was she so against it now? ''Lady Ann?''
''Oh come off it, Ann, there's no other way.'' Ryuji on the other hand, was clearly amused.
''I told you, No!''
Namine gave them a quizzical look. What were they missing here? ''Ah, what's going on? Ann didn't seem to have much of a problem with it before.''
''Oh, it's just that Kitagawa told her that he wanted to do nude paintings before.'' Ryuji answered without much thought.
''What?!'' She and Morgana cried.
The latter glared at Ryuji ''Why didn't you tell us before?!''
''Sorry, I thought Ann let you know!''
The girl in question glared at him ''I told you, I'm not doing it!''
Namine gave the boy a look ''Paintings as in he expects this of me too? No way!''
''Aw come on, it's the best way to get us in there.'' Ryuji cajoled, Namine simply glared in response. ''You're just overreacting.''
''...I hate to say it but he might be right.'' Morgana's statement drew the girls' ire at him. ''Don't misunderstand, I didn't mean it like that! We do need a way to get back in there without rousing suspicion. If you two keep Yusuke distracted, I can sneak off to open the door. Just give me a hairpin and I can do it!''
''Isn't there some other way?'' Namine looked embarrassed at the suggested propsect. ''Modeling was one thing but he can't just ask people to do something like that.''
''Exactly!'' Ann huffed. ''I'm not doing it!''
''You don't have to get naked for him, you know. Just keep him distracted.'' Ryuji reminded.
Ann was irked as it was clear this was amusing to him ''Easy for you to say. You're not the one who has to worry about this!''
Ryuji just shrugged ''Hey, like it or not, we have to use the chance. Do it for justice.''
''You do it then!'' She retorted.
''He doesn't want that.''
Ann wasn't about to leave it at that, she refused to let him get the last word here. His nonchalant behavior made her all the more irritable ''Make it so he does!''
Ryuji grinned ''Oh, I get it, you're scared.'' He ignored Ann's scowl at this and continued ''And you're supposed to be the model. Well, I guess you really can't help, huh?''
''Hey, that's...that's not fair! I just...'' Ann protested.
Morgana had a feeling he knew where this was going ''Wait, Lady Ann, he's...!''
''Just calm down...'' Namine tried to say.
But it was no good ''Argh, fine!'' Ann exclaimed. ''I'll do it, for justice! I'll show you a model's spirit!''
Namine held back a groan, knowing she was going to be dragged into this too. Sighing, she looked at their feline companion ''Mona, normally I wouldn't rush you but is there any chance you can work on the door as fast as you can?''
''Of course. Leave it to me, Namine! I'll make sure you won't have to go through with this.'' The cat assured.
Ann blinked ''Did I just...?''
Namine gave her a dark look ''Yes, yes you did.''
She groaned and Ryuji snickered. Morgana scratched his hand with his claws, making him yelp ''What was that for?!''
''For being an idiot! Can't you see how uncomfortable they are? This is why I say you have no tact!'' The cat chided.
Namine began to smile, patting the cat's head ''Thanks, Mona...''
The four expected surprises the next day but one was found before their plans even got started.
''Lady Ann...what are you wearing?''
That was a fair question as the girl was now dressed in what seemed to be at least a quarter of her wardrobe. There was so much clothes that they made it look like she gained a lot of weight all of a sudden.
''Probably at least half her wardrobe, Mona.'' Namine deadpanned. How did she even breathe in all those clothes?
''It's part of my plan. Everything is fine.'' She stated. ''I'll seduce him with my acting!''
''If you say so...anyway, Ryuji went ahead to the Palace, right?''
''Yeah, he says he'll wait outside and move when it opens.'' Ann confirmed.
''That's one good thing sorted, we can make sure it'll stay open then...'' Namine rang the doorbell.
Yusuke came to answer it moments later and it was clear that he was pleased by their arrival. ''Thank you for coming, please follow me.''
''I believed you were lying when you contacted me, Takamaki-san.'' Yusuke admitted as he turned to face the girls. ''But I'm truly glad you came.''
''Sorry it was so sudden.'' Ann offered.
''It's no problem. But Sensei will be returning soon.'' Yusuke admitted. ''So, um...I'm sorry if that leaves you both anxious.''
''That's why we're here today, dammit...'' Ann muttered.
Yusuke looked curious ''What was that?''
''N-nothing at all!'' She laughed airily.
Namine decided to change the subject ''You really do like art, huh? You're clearly enthusiastic for this.''
''More than you can imagine.'' Yusuke returned wistfully. ''As I've told you before, the Sayuri was what inspired me to go on this path and I've never regretted it since. My intent is to pursue such excellence.''
''Heeh...I think I kind of get how you feel.''
''Oh?'' He gave her a curious look.
''Yeah...I loved music. I got into it because of my family. My grandmother took me to some music courses. There was a bunch of different things to try out, the teacher took some time to teach us the piano, partly because she really liked it. But she was open to our suggestions too. The whole thing was really fun and I totally got into it.'' Namine recalled. ''A lot's happened since then but...I haven't been able to enjoy it since.''
Ann blinked, she hadn't known that about the girl. But sadly, she wasn't too surprised. It just proved that all her experiences hit her hard.
''I see...'' Yusuke looked sympathetic. ''...that's a shame. I hope you regain your passion soon.''
''Thanks.''
''By the way, Takamaki-san, have you gained some weight?'' Yusuke wanted to know.
Namine struggled not to laugh at the question while Morgana was incredulous, was he serious?
''You think so? I weigh the same as always...Maybe I'm just bloated.'' Ann shrugged.
''So, then...can you, um...get ready here?''
''I...need to take my clothes off, right?'' Ann said after a moment.
''Y-yes, please...'' The artist returned.
''Can you please look the other way?'' Namine asked. Yusuke turned around in response and Ann started to take her clothes off slowly. Namine quickly went to open the door slightly and let Morgana out.
''...That was tight...'' Ann exhaled.
Yusuke's eyes widened a bit but he shook his head ''I'm doing this for art!''
''Don't look over here, okay?'' Ann chirped. ''Your sensei's coming soon, right?''
''I believe so...''
''Say, do you think we can do this somewhere else?'' Namine suggested. ''It's just that this place feels...really out in the open, you know? It's probably because of the big window. Doing this is one thing but now it feels like anyone could see.''
''I-I suppose...'' Yusuke returned. ''...I hadn't thought of that. But if it makes you feel better...''
''It does, totally!'' Ann chimed in. ''A place with a bit more atmosphere would be lovely! How about a room with a lock?''
''A lock?'' Yusuke echoed.
Ann pouted ''Must a girl say more...?''
''Please, Kitagawa-kun?'' Namine added. ''We'd just like a place with some more privacy.''
Yusuke seemed to falter ''I understand, Hyakuya-san, it's just that...the only one with a lock is...Sensei's room...''
''Then let's go there!'' Ann exclaimed.
''I can't...for one thing, I don't have the key.'' Yusuke paused and turned, staring at all the clothes. ''...You were wearing all that?''
The blonde stiffened ''D-don't you think it's cold today?''
''I suppose so? I think the sun's about to set...''
''Right? That's why a change of location would be nice!'' Ann went on. ''It's just like Namine said. We could use a bit more privacy, you know?''
''It might make for a better picture if I can brighten my models' moods...''
''Now you're talking!'' Ann beamed.
''They may be willing to try various expressive poses for use in a dynamic composition.'' Yusuke smiled to himself.
''W-what do you mean? What kind of poses?'' Ann looked wary.
''Why don't we start this thing off before deciding on any details?'' Namine offered, trying to remain calm.
''I...suppose that's fair.'' Yusuke returned.
''Ah, don't some artists have an idea of what they would like to do?'' The girl went on. ''You know...like a visual image you want to bring out in the open? I think that might have had to do with why you couldn't do much the other day.''
''Hm...you may have a point.'' Yusuke stopped to think. ''Might you be willing to help me in that front?''
''Ah, I can try but how?''
''While you guys figure that out, I'll go see if we can find another room.'' Ann told the girl before quickly taking her leave.
''This is harder than I imagined...'' Yusuke trailed off. ''...by the way, I know you said Takamaki-san felt like taking a walk but isn't she taking too long?''
''Well, I don't know...'' Namine hedged. ''...maybe she's just on the phone.''
''Ah, point taken...well...'' The artist paused. ''...ah, I have it...perhaps I can try painting you as an elf sitting languidly in a beautiful forest...''
''Oh...'' She wasn't sure what to say to that. ''...erm, sure? Whatever you think is best.'' She sat down and reminded herself to relax and keep in character.
A part of her felt bad, this was clearly important to Yusuke but they were using the opportunity like this...
On the other hand, what choice did they have?
Yusuke tried to visualize the image, realizing that Namine may have been onto something. The artist thought he was lucky to come across such muses now. He could freely say that Ann was very beautiful. Namine's surprise at his request to model was clear proof that she didn't view herself as anywhere near that level of attractiveness.
He couldn't see why not, the girl before him exuded a stately and charming appeal. The girl seemed to be an openly friendly and kind person, something that made her all the more lovely to him. She had even expressed concern for him more than once and seemed to consider his feelings round the rumors. Considering that they hardly knew each other, that said plenty about her. The whole deal clearly made her uncomfortable but she was trying and that meant a lot.
Namine tried to sit in a relaxed manner ''You said languidly...something like this then?''
The boy found that he was actually getting something on an image in mind ''Yes, that's excellent!''
''You left Namine alone in there?''
''Hey, I had to see how you were doing here!'' Ann huffed. ''You really think what we're doing is easy?''
''Sorry, Lady Ann, she was doing practically all the work in there.''
''I was trying, okay?!'' She huffed ''What's taking you so long anyway?''
Morgana seemed troubled ''It's hard to work with paws...''
''Hurry up!''
Ann went back a couple of minutes later and learned that Yusuke really was getting into his plans for their paintings. It looked like whatever Namine told him had really helped. She really felt bad for leaving their leader like that but she had to get away from this for a bit...
''Ah, Takamaki-san, good timing!'' Yusuke exclaimed, seeming animated. ''I was just deliberating over your painting.''
''Oh really? Then we can do it someplace else. I found a good spot!''
''You have?'' The artist blinked.
''Yeah, come on, I'll show you!''
Yusuke started ''Wait!''
''Ohh, now I'm interested, I have to see!'' Ann chirped as she led the two to the locked door.
''I told you, we can't!'' Yusuke insisted.
Ann walked over ''Still?''
''I'm almost there...'' Morgana trailed off.
Yusuke joined them ''Is something wrong?''
''Oh, umm, soo...what's this room?'' Ann asked.
''It's a storage area for old paintings.''
''Hmm...Kitgawa-kun, why don't we do it here?'' Ann asked. ''I won't be embarrassed if we go somewhere nobody can find us...''
''Only Sensei can do in there.'' He insisted.
''Please? I wanna be alone with you! It's quiet, and we won't be interrupted!''
''...Is he really going to buy that terrible act?'' Morgana wondered.
Ann glared at him ''Stay focused!''
Namine spoke up then, hoping to distract him ''Erm, Kitagawa-kun, remember what you said about our moods? Well it wouldn't really do to have your models feeling so uncomfortable about this, right?''
''That's true but you have to understand...'' He started to say, faltering.
''Your teacher's an experienced artist, wouldn't he understand?'' She went on. ''I mean, doing something like a nude painting so openly like that makes me feel really awkward and way embarrassed. Wouldn't that interfere in your work? I'm only here because I agreed to help before. I didn't even know about your new idea...'' She cast Ann an irritated look. ''...until yesterday.''
The girl mouthed a 'Sorry' in response, seeming sheepish. Namine continued ''So, please? I just can't do it in that room.''
''Come on! It's just frustrating that my feelings aren't getting through to you!'' Ann exclaimed. ''Kitagawa-kun, don't you like girls like me?''
He stuttered, surprised ''N-no, that's not true...''
''Then please? Let's continue this inside!''
''S-sure...'' Yusuke shook himself. ''...I mean, no! We can't go in there! It's locked anyway, so...''
Ann pouted ''Fine! This is too embarrassing, I'm gone!''
Yusuke looked taken aback ''But...''
''Let's just do it here, okay?''
The teen was at a loss. He didn't want either of the girls to leave. Namine was at least trying to be cooperative and helpful but the issue was Ann-how could get her to stay?
He didn't get to think much about that because...
''I'm home!'' Madarame called.
The four were startled ''Sensei?'' Yusuke blurted.
Morgana smirked as the door unlocked ''I got it!'' Ann turned and walked in with Yusuke and Namine hurrying after her just as Madarame arrived.
The man stiffened ''What're you doing over there?!''
''It's...it's not what it looks like.'' Yusuke started.
''Hey, what the...?!''
He turned at the exclamation just as Ann flipped the lights, revealing the room's contents.
''Those are...'' Yusuke looked stunned. ''...Sayuri?''
''And there's so many of them...'' Namine trailed off.
''I never knew...what on earth?'' Yusuke wondered.
''Get out!'' Madarame snapped as he walked in.
Yusuke's eyes narrowed ''Sensei, what is the meaning of this?''
Madarame sighed ''I suppose I can't keep quiet since you've seen this...Truth be told, I'm in severe debt. I hand made those Sayuri copies and have been selling them through a special connection of mine.''
''Why?''
''The real painting was stolen by a pupil a long time ago. They must have begrudged my strictness.'' Madarame replied. ''It was quite a shock. I've been mired in a terrible artist's block ever since...that's why some of my pupils handed their ideas over from time to time...''
The girls exchanged a look, keeping their expressions neutral. Neither of them were convinced. Even if they hadn't seen the man's Shadow, something just didn't seem right here.
''I knew that couldn't go on so I tried to recreate Sayuri.'' Madarame went on. ''All I got in the end was replicas. But then someone came to buy it regardless...'' He lowered his head. ''...it's all my fault. I couldn't pay the price of fame. As expectations arose of me, I found that I had no choice but to keep making replicas. I...needed money to further your talents...I ask that you forgive your cowardly teacher, Yusuke.''
The teen's expression softened, feeling terrible for his teacher's plight ''Please don't say that...''
''Something's not right here.'' Namine stated.
''If the original was stolen how did you make copies?'' Ann inquired.
''I...happened to find a finely detailed photograph in an art book.'' He said quickly.
The model's eyes narrowed. ''You know that sounds off, right? How does that even work?''
''People who buy paintings have an eye for them, wouldn't they recognize a fake?'' Namine added. ''Some even have connections. Art buffs would never go for a replica.''
''That's...'' Madarame faltered.
''Actually-why is this one all covered up?'' Ann removed the cloth from the painting behind her, revealing another painting.
Yusuke's eyes widened ''That's the real Sayuri!'' He looked at Madarame. ''You just said it was stolen...''
''That's a replica!'' His teacher retorted.
The student wasn't fooled for a second ''No, it's nothing of the sort! I'd recognize this anywhere. This painting kept me going...it helped me make it so far.''
But Madarame was insistent ''You're wrong, it's a counterfeit! I bought it after learning of its existence!''
''So the actual artist brought a counterfeit? That's pushing it.'' Ann wasn't convinced in the least.
Neither was Namine ''Why would you do that? It wouldn't be hidden if it was a replica. Besides, you just said you were in debt. That's even less of a reason to do it.''
''Please tell the truth.'' Yusuke requested.
''You too?'' Madarame frowned. He took out a phone and dialled a number. ''I've reported you to my private security company.''
''What?!''
''I had it set up to deal with problematic paparazzi but I never thought it would be handy.''
Yusuke began to pale, believing he had made a terrible mistake. He had just gotten carried away because of the painting but given what he knew...
''Please, wait, let's talk about this!''
''You all can talk to the police.'' Madarame stated.
''Lady Ann, Namine, Let's go!'' Morgana called.
Madarame started ''Where'd that cat come from...?'' This served as enough of a distraction for the girls to take off, with Yusuke following them.
''It's useless!'' He called out.
Madarame tried to follow them, only to be left flummoxed when the four disappeared. ''But how?!''
''Man...'' Skull glanced at the door. ''...it's good that they got this open but where are they? We were supposed to meet up...''
A scream reached his ears then, making him look up. The boy's eyes widened when he saw Panther and Yusuke falling a second later.
''Whoa, what...?!''
Yusuke looked up and caught Panther as she fell. Mona and Joker appeared seconds later, the former thought fast and summoned Zorro to help catch them.
''Good thinking, Mona.'' Joker praised. The cat beamed as his persona faded away.
''What is all this?'' Yusuke looked around, shocked. ''Where are we?''
''W-would you let go?!'' Panther exclaimed, shoving him enough to fall down. ''Oh, sorry! I didn't mean to...''
''Did you disable the security?'' Mona demanded.
''Yeah, it was easy. I just got enough time to bash the computer and I left before the shadows surrounded me.'' Skull explained. He didn't like running from a fight but he wasn't so foolish as to assume that he could beat all the guards on his own. ''What happened?''
''Someone tell me what's going on,'' Yusuke frowned. ''What is this place?!''
''Calm down, Kitagawa-kun...'' Panther started. ''...we're inside Madarame's heart.''
''What?'' He clearly didn't believe it. ''Wait...Takamaki-san?'' The teen looked at Joker then. ''...then you must be Hyakuya-san, but I've never seen that cat costume before...''
''It's complicated...'' Joker offered.
Yusuke blinked twice ''What was she saying about Sensei...?''
''That we're in a place filled with his desires.'' Mona replied. ''This is his Palace, it shows the true Madarame's character.''
''A garish place like this? Absurd!'' Yusuke protested. ''You're out of your minds!''
''You saw what happened before we came. Shouldn't those replicas prove that Madarame's not what you think he is?'' Panther asked.
''This can't be true...''
Joker sighed, knowing it couldn't be that easy to convince him ''Come on, we'll let you see for yourself.''
They first took him to the hall with the paintings, keeping careful since the security level was very high and they had to watch out for Yusuke. Panther took time to tell him about the hall with the paintings as they started to fill him in.
''We don't have the time to explain everything, we're just here to let you see it for yourself. Long story short, we're the Phantom Thieves. This is the Metaverse. It's a world of cognition which shows the truth about people.'' Mona explained.
''I know it's crazy but you gotta admit it can't be a lie since you're here.'' Skull offered.
''I...yes, that's true...'' Yusuke trailed off, he wasn't about to argue with that after he had seen. ''...but why are you so sure Sensei's a terrible person? That place proves that he remembers his pupils.''
''We were asked to help stop him.'' Joker informed as they headed out to the garden. ''Nakanohara-san said he wants him to answer for his actions.''
''Wait, you mean...!'' It was clear that Yusuke recognized the name. ''...so he never forgot...?''
''Absolutely. He asked us to help you.'' Mona recalled.
''Say, Kitagawa-kun, can you be honest with us?'' Joker inquired. ''If you believe in Madarame so much, why did you tell him that you'd leave the shack if you could?''
Yusuke stiffened ''T-that's...''
Skull cocked his head ''...You definitely know something's up with that guy, right?'' Yusuke just looked away while Panther watched in concern. ''Hey, come on...''
''Skull, stop.'' Joker cut in. ''I'm sorry, I know this is hard and your situation is probably more complicated considering that he helped raise you. But the fact is, you needed to hear about this.''
''You can't keep avoiding the truth.'' Mona added. ''Madarame hurt far too many people. One of them even committed suicide because of his twisted schemes. That's just why we're here to stop him.''
''Yeah, our goal is to stop the rotten adults oppressing others and to stand up for those who can't fight for themselves.'' Panther stated.
''My, such lofty goals from a bunch of thieves.''
Shadow Madarame walked out of the shadows, having been obscured by the gate before the group.
''I finally found you. You won't get away.''
''S-Sensei...'' Yusuke appeared stunned. ''...is that you?''
''Those shadows sure have huge egos.'' Skull scowled. ''First we get a king and now a shogun...''
Yusuke stepped back ''This...this can't be real...''
Shadow Madarame snorted ''My act is all a farce. A famous person living in that shack? I have another home under a mistress' name, of course. To think you actually believed that. So naive!'' He laughed.
Yusuke cringed, wanting desperately to believe that this was a nightmare. Sadly, he was wide awake ''Why was the Sayuri in your storage? Why'd you make copies?! Tell me the truth!''
''Foolish child, you don't see it? That's all all planned out. Picture this...I found the real painting but it can't go public...you can have it for a special price though.'' Shadow Madarame grinned. ''How's that for preferential treatment?! Art snobs will eat it all up!''
''No...'' Yusuke fell to his knees, overwhelmed. He didn't want to believe it, but the truth was laid out. This was his teacher...the man he considered a father...
''Hey, you all right?'' Mona asked as the four looked at him on concern.
Shadow Madarame went on, seemingly on a roll ''The worth of art is subjective...Thus this is a legitimate buisness transaction! Not that a brat like you could come up with such a scheme!''
Skull growled ''You keep goin' on and on about money, like a broken record. No wonder you ended up with this disgusting museum!''
''You hurt and betrayed all the pupils who should have been able to rely on you.'' Joker glarrd at the Shadow. ''You destroyed their dreams, all for money? You're no artist, you're just a fraud.''
''That's right, you just plagiarized others' work! You're downright rotten!'' Panther added.
But he could clearly care less ''Art is nothing but a tool for money and fame. The apprentices are just tools, a means to an end.'' He looked down at his student. ''You were a big help to me, Yusuke...''
Mona's eyes narrowed ''There, that's your teacher.''
''How could you?!'' The teen snapped. ''What about the people who believed in you?!''
Shadow Madarame was still unfazed ''I'll tell you now, Yusuke. If you wish to suceed in this world, don't defy me.'' He chuckled. ''Do you believe anyone could find success with my objection holding them down? Didn't you convince yourself that the others were just too weak to handle being an artist?''
Yusuke lowered his head, still seeming pained ''I've been so blind. To think...such a wretched man was caring for me...To think, I wanted to believe...''
''Oh, you though I took you in out of the goodness of my heart? Plucking talented, troubled students allows me to take their ideas...'' His expression changed into one with a malicious smirk. ''...it's much easier to steal the futures of children who can't fight back.''
''So it was true, he sees the students as nothing more than live stock.'' Mona recalled the statue from their previous visit.
''That's all they are!'' The shadow confirmed. ''Live stock are killed for their hide and meat, this is no different! I tire of this little chat.'' He snapped his fingers. Five guards appeared around him. ''It's time that I dispose of you!''
''...Unforgiveable...'' Yusuke rose to his feet, making everyone look at him as he glared at Madarame. ''...It doesn't matter who you are...I won't forgive you!''
The Shadow harrumphed ''So this is how you repay me for keeping you around? Men, get rid of them!''
Then to everyone's surprise, Yusuke laughed.
''To think...I avoided this for so long...I wanted to believe it was all false.'' He whispered ''I had clouded my vision...My eyes were truly blind...Blind and unable to see the truth behind this man...! But no more, you won't get away with this!''
'Have you finally come to your senses?'
Yusuke froze at the voice, his eyes opening wide. He gripped his head as waves of pain flew throughout his whole body.
'How foolishly you averted your eyes from the truth...' The voice went on as Yusuke tried to get rid of the terrible pain.
'A deplorable imitation indeed...Best you part with that aspect of yourself!' Yusuke fell to knees. 'Let us forge a contract...I am thou, thou art I...The world is filled with both beauty and vices...It is time you teach people which is which!'
Yusuke looked up, a white fox mask covered most of his face. He grasped the mask and removed it ''Very well. Let's begin, Goemon!''
A vortex of azure and white flames materialized around him as power surged forth. A kabuki dancer appeared hopping on one of his wooden geta. He wore blue robes with a red jump, a white and blue knot was tied at his back. He held a large white pipe in one hand as he reached out, crackling with power.
Yusuke was now clad in a dark blue jumpsuit that had a white collar, arm bands and boots along with a white and blue make-shift belt and a fox's tail hanging behind. He glared up at Shadow Madarame as he raised a hand ''A breathtaking sight...imitations as they may be together they make a fine spectacle. Though the flowers of evil blossom, let it be known...'' He swiped his hand, sending a fierce blizzard that killed the shadows. ''...Abominations are fated to perish!''
''Whoa...that was great,'' Panther remarked while Joker smiled.
''Now that's showing 'em!'' Skull grinned.
Shadow Madarame grit his teeth ''Don't think this is over! Guards!''
More shadows appeared at the call, surrounding the group of five. They convulsed, revealing to be two Ippon-Datara and three Koppa-Tengu.
''Show some respect, intruders!''
''You are in Madarame-sama's wondrous presence!''
''Oh, please! Carmen, Maragi!'' Panther summoned her Persona, with the red clad dancer summoning flames that hit all the shadows.
''I learned much from you Madarame...in order to ascertain authenticity, one must be dispassionately unrealistic. Now I see the truth about you with no reservations!'' A katana appeared in Yusuke's hand and he used it to slash a tengu, leaving it to fall down before he attacked again.
Joker tanked one of the Tengu's attacks before shooting at it, forcing it back. ''Arsene!''
The gentleman thief appeared before her, using Cleave upon command to throw the Tengu back. Skull shot a round of bullets from his gun to finish off the shadow.
Mona avoided one of the Ippon-Datara's hammer before slashing its chest, leaving it recoil and shove him back. ''Time for my persona!'' Zorro appeared behind him. ''Lucky Punch!''
''Eiha!''
''Garu!''
Zorro's winds and Arsene's curse magic combined to hit at the same time, destroying the shadow.
Yusuke cut the last Tengu down with a Giant Slice while Skull called upon Captain Kidd to Headbutt the Ippon Datara and Panther gunned it down. Yusuke finished it off with a final slash, leaving it to fade away.
''Yusuke, you fool, you've thrown your bright future down the drain!'' Shadow Madarme jeered as he left. ''I'll destroy your chances to become an artist!''
''Madarame!'' The teen shouted back, making to chase him. He was forced to stop as a feeling of sudden pain and exhaustion filled him. ''Get...back here!''
''Whoa, easy.'' Skull helped him up.
''Awakening a Persona is always hard. You're bound to be pretty tired.'' Mona stated.
''Let's go back. We'll explain everything once we're out of here.'' Joker promised.
Well, I'll stop here.
So how was it? I hope it was good. I've been thinking a lot about my plans for this story and trying to decide what would be for the best.
The thing is, I just can't fit Kawakami in the confidants. From what I've seen, it all revolves around her work as a maid. I just can't picture that playing out with Namine. I have a different plan for her but yes, the jerks that are blackmailing her are definitely going to be stopped. Then I thought of how I changed things up with Shiho and I figured this would work better. I even have a couple of ideas of how to fit her with other confidants too.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank 3)
Morgana (Magician Rank 2)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 2)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 1)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 1)
Igor (Aeon Rank 1)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 1)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 1)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 1)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 1)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 1)