Well, I'd just like to take a moment to thank Tercra and Guest for answering my question in the last author's note. Here we go!
During one of her previous visits, the twins had shown Namine the spirit compendium which they kept in the Velvet Room. It had a lot of empty pages but they seemed to get filled in more as she learned about the Metaverse.
For instance, it even helped her gain some info about spirits they had seen before and for some, that meant it would show her how to fuse them.
An example was the Shiisa Caroline and Justine had requested earlier. This was what led to her fusing her Jack Frost and Apsaras persona to create it.
The Shiisa certainly seemed intimidating at first but the next thing she knew, it was happily bounding towards her with only the cell bars blocking its way. Namine gave a amused look and patted its head. The spirit gave a small growl of appreciation before fading away and becoming one of her masks. She couldn't help laughing, it was almost like dealing with a puppy.
''You actually did it...''
She'd almost forgotten Caroline was there. Justine soon joined her ''So you have the requested Persona. Well done, Inmate.''
''You might actually be worth our time, after all.'' Caroline added. Namine raised an eye but she decided not to respond to the temperamental girl since she really didn't feel like getting into a fight. ''Anyway Justine, tell her that. It's on the list right?''
''Indeed. I will assign your next task, should you complete it, we will reward you by offering some of the Velvet Room's services.''
''Services?'' Once again she wondered what that even meant as much of the room was still too dark and misty for her to see much.
''You may consider it an incentive, also something to help you grow stronger.'' Justine stated.
Namine thought it over. The twins may not have been the most friendly people but they hadn't steered her wrong yet so...
''Well okay, if you say it'll help, there's no harm in waiting and finding out. What exactly do you want me to do?''
''Try to harbor a Matador with Magaru within you.'' Justine replied. ''You only need to speak with us once you do and we will be able to sense.''
She hadn't seen a Shadow with such a name before, meaning it could take a while. Still, this wasn't about to deter her ''Got it.''
As they agreed early on, the team gathered after school to help Yusuke and Nakanohara give back the paintings to Madarame's former pupils. The latter decided to take care of the more further parts of the city, leaving the team to look around the areas closer to them. They all knew that too much had happened for them to be able to help all of Madarame's students but that didn't mean they couldn't make a difference out there. It didn't mean their efforts would be useless.
The beginning hadn't gone off too well, as they hadn't been able to find the first young man from Yusuke's list and they quickly learned he currently lived abroad. The next one was a woman who lived near Takenobo street.
It was also hard as they could tell she had decided to cut her ties with art. She did decide to hear them out though, considering that she had kept touch with a few other pupils and she somewhat recognized Nakanohara and Yusuke. The woman had also been pleasantly surprised with their efforts so she decided the least she could do was hear them out.
''We're not saying you should just ignore what happened...I know that's unreasonable but it just seems like a waste, leaving that painting of yours to the garbage.'' Ann told her. ''Yusuke's our friend and after hearing about Madarame...we don't want things to end up like this.''
''I see...'' The woman started. ''...well, I never did think I would care after what that horrid man did, it's only thanks to my family that I'm doing this well now. I did enjoy painting...''
''Then please, don't give up.'' Yusuke urged. ''I understand that things changed but I hope you don't throw your talent away. That man has caused enough damage, I wish we can all cut him out of our lives.''
''Amen to that.'' She agreed. ''Well...I appreciate you kids going through all the trouble. This is really a surprise so I'll think about it.''
''That's all we ask, Ma'am.'' Namine smiled. ''Giving the paintings back is only fair, you all deserved much better than this.''
''Thank you. I've actually been keeping touch with a few other pupils. Should I contact them? I've only met Nakanohara-san a few times but I think he would want to talk.''
''That sounds good.''
''All right then.'' She nodded to herself. ''As much as I think you're doing good, I feel I should warn you. Don't be surprised if others turn the idea down all together. Some of us...didn't take the truth about Madarame coming being revealed as well as others.''
''It's cool, we just gotta try.'' Ryuji assured.
The next former pupil happened to be someone Yusuke knew more this time. They learned that he was disgraced and ruined due to Madarame's schemes after he defied the man. He was now a cadet in the police station...
Unfortunately, Cadet Maehara also happened to the proof of the warning they received earlier coming true fast. As in, he reacted very badly when they explained everything. Like so...
''You kids are out of your minds. I don't want anything to do with art!'' He thundered. ''And you, you've got some nerve showing your face after all the crap you kept telling me about the bastard being such a damn good guy. Get out, right now!''
The teens had no choice but to do just that, seeing Maehara slam the door.
Ryuji cringed ''Geez, what's his problem?''
''I've never seen anyone so...angry.'' Morgana winced. ''Yusuke, what was he talking about?''
'His mood did seem to get much worse the second he recognized you.' Zorro added.
''That's...'' Yusuke grimaced. ''...he's right to be furious with me. I was still defending Madarame like a blind fool when we last met. He trusted my word since I lived with him all that time. I never knew what happened to Maehara-san exactly but he left about a month after we last spoke. He wasn't like this, he was passionate and temperamental sometimes yes...but...''
''What do we do now though?'' No one had an answer for Ryuji.
Moments later, they were approached by someone. ''Excuse me?''
It was a teenage boy about their age with shaggy brown hair and reddish brown eyes. ''Can you tell me what's going on? I heard a lot of shouting. I assumed there might be some trouble.''
''Nah, nothing like that. He basically blew his top off...'' Ryuji grunted.
They gave the puzzled teen a brief run down of the situation. He nodded after a moment ''I see...so you want to help give the paintings back. That's certainly kind of you. It seems Maehara-san didn't take that well though?''
''That's an understatement.'' Ann replied. ''He practically blew up on us. Do you know the guy?''
''No, not really. I did talk to him a few times. He did always give the impression that he was bitter. We only realized why recently with the truth about Madarame coming out.''
Yusuke thought he deserved every bit of Maehara's ire ''I don't blame him. He's just another victim.''
'You may have erred in the past but you're doing something to help deal with those mistakes. There is no shame in that.' Goemon's words were a comfort he felt unworthy.
''I'd hate to leave things this way though; he's lost enough because of Madarame. There's no way he'd listen to us after that reaction but still...'' Namine bit her lip.
''Why don't I help you then?'' The brown haired teen suggested. ''I have an idea. Cadet Maehara's brother is a high ranked officer. That's how he was able to help him cope after Madarame almost ruined his life and why he got this job. If anyone could get him to calm down and hopefully understand it would be the senior Maehara-san.''
Namine was pleasantly surprised ''Wait, really? You wouldn't mind?''
''Not at all, I just came to wrap something up anyway. I certainly agree with you that there's quite enough damage to go around with. I'm not sure if it would work but it's better than nothing, correct?''
''Definitely, thanks!''
He gave a pleasant smile ''You're welcome.''
The boy paused, as he made to head to the office where Maehara was. It looked like he wanted to say something. In the end, he seemed to think better of it and went.
Yusuke wound up going with him to explain everything, leaving the others to wait. Ryuji sighed ''This is some turnout.''
A curious Namine was left wondering. The boy was looking at her rather strangely back there. Why?
''At least we have some help. It's nice of that guy to step in like that. Wonder who he is, kinda forgot to ask his name...'' Ann could've sworn she saw him before but she wasn't sure where.
''I wonder if this will work.'' Morgana tilted his head.
''Well, there's no way to know for sure...but at least it might be a step forward.'' Namine offered.
Later on, they each went on their ways and Namine headed to meet Yoshida per the latter's request...
''Passing on the societal ills we have created to the next generation...'' Yoshida stated. ''...is not right! It will take time to solve this problem. However, we must start by making small changes!''
He finished a few minutes later, undaunted despite the lacking reception to his efforts.
''I hope you gleaned something useful from today's speech.'' Yoshida smiled. ''Regardless of the audience size, you must convey your thoughts as if you're talking one to one.''
Namine thought that over. ''So you make sure you never ignore anybody, right?''
''Precisely. By the way, in politics you need to work to pursue your goal with all you have. There will be those who oppose you but as long you remain strong and true to yourself you will succeed.'' Namine nodded. ''I remember what you said before so let me ask you...Let's pretend that you do decide to be a politician, what kind?''
''Hmm...well, I think it'd be best to be one with conviction. I mean, people would want to become popular for votes and stuff but I don't think that's a good idea. It doesn't say much about the politican, only that they're crowd pleasers. That's why I think it'd be best to have some who is firm to their words and principles. This way, they'd at least be accomplishing something.''
''Interesting...'' Yoshida smiled. ''...I couldn't agree more. What's important is what lies within. Giving speeches is just something I came to learn over the years as a politician. Allow me to give you some advice...As you say, conviction is important. That's why, if you aspire to enter politics, you must possess a central philosophy. What is that you want to accomplish...? That is the foundation of a great speech. You'd do well to remember that.''
''Oh...that makes sense. If I don't have a goal in mind, I'd just be rambling.'' She nodded.
''Exactly. By the way, my philosophy is to never give up until your voice is heard.'' He declared firmly. ''To get your message across, be tenacious in conveying your thoughts to the audience. Have a firm point of view and communicate it clearly, that's the first rule of negotiating.'' He laughed. ''You have me reliving the fighting spirit I had when I first became a politician!''
Namine looked amused, she didn't know what to say to that but he certainly seemed happy. There were no troubles with the speech this time so it was a good turn all around.
It was later around evening that the girl met up with Shiho, both taking seats at one of Leblanc's tables...
The girl took a sip of the coffee Namine made her ''There was this one place I wanted to see in Shibuya but with all the rumors going about...''
''Yeah, it's a bad idea.'' Namine gave her a brief rundown of the recent trouble in Shujin, leaving the girl surprised.
''Whoa...'' Shiho's eyes widened a little ''...is the school doing anything to help then?''
''I'm not sure about the school...'' Namine was seriously skeptic about that part, considering its history. ''...but Nijima-senpai is...''
''I see...'' Shiho nodded when she finished explained everything. ''...that sounds rough. She's under a lot of pressure.''
Namine hummed in agreement ''You know much about her, Shiho?''
''Not really...I did wonder about the rumors before.'' She admitted. ''I used to agree with Ann about her for a while but I thought it over...Even if she did know about Kamoshida, she probably couldn't have done much. She's still a student like us, the administration wouldn't have listened to her. It's hard to imagine her not caring about the students. Especially with how far she's going now.''
''My thoughts exactly.'' Namine leaned back. ''So you're doing much better, huh?''
''Mm, my parents have been helping me keep up with my studies.'' Shiho admitted. ''Remember when you saw us the other day? Well, I've been troubled about going back to Shujin since. Last time was bad...and it just made me remember. Namine, the truth is my dad suggested transferring schools.''
The other girl looked surprised but she thought it over and she could understand how Shiho felt. It had to be hard...
Namine's irritation with the students came back at full force, they only made it worse for her. ''Oh...so what're you going to do?''
''I haven't decided yet. A part of me wants to but it still feels like I'm running away, I'm not really comfortable with that. For now, I'll just take a look at schools and see what happens.''
''That's a good idea.'' Namine returned. ''Even if you do come back to Shujin, we're going to help you through it. Either way, you can count on us having your back, Shiho.''
Shiho smiled, feeling grateful to have a friend like her ''Right...thank you.''
It was the day of the trip to the TV station and all the second year students who had chosen to go were led by a couple of teachers to the building. They were met by a PR woman who began taking them on the tour.
Anyone who might have felt excited to come here was regretting it now. The tour was frightfully dull and the guide was talking to them like they were kids. The worst part was, in the end, they got roped into working along with the station staff instead of actually enjoying themselves a little.
''I'm so pissed off! Why the hell do we gotta be doing this? Aren't we supposed to be guests?'' Ryuji grumbled.
''Calm down, I get how you feel. That really did suck...'' Ann exhaled.
He frowned ''We gotta be doing more of this tomorrow?''
''No flaking out, Ryuji.'' Morgana returned.
''I know, I know. I gotta be a 'good boy', right?'' He grumbled. ''Bein' Phantom Thieves ain't easy...''
''That reminds me, we get to go home straight from here today. We don't spend much time around here. Why don't we relax and check out some shops beforehand?'' Ann suggested.
''Sounds like fun! It would totally make up for this.'' Namine smiled.
''No kidding, I'm all for it.'' Ryuji stated.
''Me too, I know a place! I wanna go to that huge pancake looking place we passed on the way here! It looked delicious, what was that?'' Morgana wanted to know.
''You mean Dome Town? The round part is a baseball stadium, then along the outside they've got an amusement park.'' Ryuji replied. ''It's right in the middle of a buisness area, but they have some pretty hardcore rides there too.''
''All right, let's go! I'll show you how courageous I am!'' Morgana declared.
''Going on a scary ride doesn't really prove any courage.'' He couldn't help deflating a bit at Ann's words.
''Not like cats can get on anyway.'' Ryuji added.
The feline blinked ''Really?''
''Really. You might be able to sneak in the bag but you'd totally puke if you do that.'' Ryuji grinned. ''But let's just go to Dome Town. I'm really feelin' it now!''
''Me too. My stomach's ready for roller coasters!'' Ann smiled.
Namine didn't fail to note their feline companion stiffening ''Guys, tone it down. I think you're scaring Mona.''
''No, they're not! I...I think I'll pass on the puke rides though...''
The sound of footsteps made the four look back, seeing the brown haired boy from yesterday pass in the hall.
''Oh hey, you're here too?'' Ryuji cocked his head.
He seemed just as surprised to see them ''Ah hello there, so you're all students from Shujin?''
''Yeah, thanks for yesterday by the way.'' Namine added.
''That was nice of you.'' Ann chipped in.
''I'm only relieved that it worked. I thought it was only right to help, if anything, you're the nice ones for going through all the trouble.''
Ann gave him a curious look ''Well-wait, we were so caught in that mess yesterday that I forgot to ask, what's your name?''
''Ah, right, it's Akechi Goro. Though now that you mention it, I never did remember to ask about yours either.'' The three teens introduced themselves in return. ''It's a pleasure. I'm actually here to see about a few details to filming for tomorrow.''
''Filming? What, you a celebrity?'' Ryuji asked.
''Only to extent of appearing on TV a couple of times...''
"Oh, that's why you look familiar!" Ann blurted, finally able to place him since yesterday. "You're that new hotshot detective, I saw this interview you had the other day. They said you picked up on a clue this older officer completely missed or something..."
"Ah, that? I simply managed to look at things from a different angle." His expression changed for a moment. ''...My apologies, I truly was just passing by nit must be going. There's a briefing for tomorrow's recording that I have to attend.'' He smiled. ''So you're going to have pancake now? I missed lunch today so I'm quite hungry myself.''
''What're you talking about? No one mentioned a pancake.'' Ann informed.
''Oh.'' He blinked. ''My mistake. I could've sworn I heard someone talk about about something of the sort...No matter, welp, see you tomorrow.''
''Ah, it was nice seeing you again.'' Namine called. He caught her eye and smiled back in acknowledgement before leaving.
''Don't be so nice to this guy.'' Ryuji told her.
She blinked, he hadn't done anything to deserve differently ''Why not?''
''He's just jealous.'' Morgana smirked.
''Yeah, right!'' Ryuji retorted. ''That guy's gotta be some kinda start up entertainer or something...He's never gonna get popular with that kinda hair though.''
''You don't get it.'' Ann stated.
''Eh, whatever. We'll see him tomorrow anyway. Come on, let's go to Dome Town!''
''Guys, can we skip the vomit machines and get cake instead?'' Morgana pleaded.
Later on, that night...
''Now, a little reminder about blends...'' Sojiro started. ''…anyone can work out brewing coffee but blends are different. You have to be really careful to get them just right.''
''Like how you were talking about those jamaican beans blend before?''
''Exactly.'' He was seeming pleased that she remembered. ''I've got some back home; we'll work on a few next time.''
Namine nodded, turning a little as the door opened then, revealing the man with the dark blue cap.
''You again?'' Sojiro frowned.
''Oh, cold as ever, Sakura-san!'' The man chuckled. ''I'm here to talk about that deal, as you know.''
''I told you, I don't have the money.''
''Oh don't be like that.'' He grinned, clearly unfazed by his glare. ''I know you're keeping something. You've got this cafe and you're looking after this employee of yours for practically nothing after all. It looked like I was interrupting a chat. Why don't you try being as nice to me as you are to her?''
Sojiro was clearly getting fed up ''Look, I'm busy. If that's all you have to say, I'm waiting for a phone call...''
''That's fine. I think I'll talk with your cute little charge here.'' The man returned, ignoring Namine's frown.
Noting that he was in trouble, Namine had a thought. She discreetly took out her phone and dialled a number. Just seconds later, Sojiro's phone rang.
His eyes widened a bit as he saw the number before speaking ''Yeah, hello...ah, right...'' He looked up at the man. ''...this is the social services call I was talking about. They call everyone in a while to check on the kid, you want me to introduce you?''
''A-ah, no! It's fine, it's fine!'' He left
''...Doesn't he have anything better to do?'' Sojiro looked at Namine. ''I didn't think you had it in you, thanks.''
''Sure...'' Namine wanted to ask but she wasn't sure it was a good idea.
''I should explain, he could come around when I'm not there.'' The man went on. ''That guy's an old...acquaintance of mine. He's trying to force me to give him money because of a past issue.''
She looked curious ''Can't you report him or something?''
''I would but the problem is he's related to her...'' Sojiro paused, seeing the girl's curious look. ''...ah, never mind, just thinking out loud. You're going back to the station tomorrow right? Try not to look bad in TV.''
''...Boss, I swear...sometimes, you're horrible.''
The girl's delivery of her response made him laugh. ''Just making a statement.''
The students gathered back in the station again, all taking seats to watch a show bein filmed live...Eventually came the part plenty of people seemed to be looking forward to.
''Akechi-san's coming on!''
The announcement caused quite the chatter amongst the crowd. ''It's Akechi-kun!''
''He's so cool!''
''Oh hey, so he's up.'' Ryuji cocked his head.
Morgana noted the crowd's reaction. ''For all he said yesterday, Akechi seems pretty popular.''
''Cutting back from commerical!'' The assistant went on before doing a countdown.
''And now, onto the Hottest Meet and Greet segment of our show...'' The female announcer said ''...after his last appearance was so well received, we decided to bring this gentleman back today. It's the high school detective, Akechi Goro!''
''Hello there,'' the teen said with a smie.
''Thank you for taking the time to join us today, Akechi-kun. Your popularity is stunning.'' The male announcer said.
''Even I've found it to be quite a surprise, it is a bit embarrassing though...''
''Moving along, we've been told there's a case on your mind right now. Care to share, detective?''
''Ah, yes. That would be the scandal involving the master artist Madarame.''
''There it is! All of this Phantom Thieves excitement has caught your attention too, Akechi-kun! Allow me to be blunt for just a second. What do you think of these justice-oriented Phantom Thieves?'' The second announcer added.
''If they are truly heroes of justice, I sincerely hope they exist.'' The teen responded readily.
''Oh, so you don't deny the possibility that they're real?''
''I may not seem like it but I sometimes wish that Santa Claus actually existed. Although if he did I'd have to arrest him for breaking and entering.'' Akechi paused. ''But hypothetically speaking, if these Phantom Thieves are real...I believe they should be tried in a court of law.''
''That's quite the statement. Are they committing crimes? Some people even say that the Thieves are actually helping their victims abandon their evil ways.''
''What the artist Madarame did was truly an unforgiveable crime. However, they're taking the law into their own hands by judging him. It is far from justice. More importantly, you should never forcefully change a person's heart.'' He stated firmly.
The present thieves shared glances, being troubled by those words. He was really simplifying things. The reason they had made the choice to become the Phantom Thieves was that the law would protect those with power while leaving many out there to suffer. It was hardly perfect.
''You have a point. These people are calling themselves the Phantom Thieves after all. Amazing as always, Akechi-kun! I could listen to you for days! You have the most radiant charisma!'' The male announcer stated.
The boy only smilled ''I have to say though, I would be embarrassed if it turns out that they don't exist. If that were the case, I'd summarize it into a report as a school project.''
''Now then, let's try asking some students the same age as Akechi-kun about the Phantom Thieves!'' The female announcer said. ''First, please press the button now if you think they exist.''
Ryuji's eyes narrowed as he proceeded to do just that ''Of course they do!''
The screens up front displayed the result. ''About 30% or so? What are you thoughts, Akechi-kun?''
''I'm a bit surprised, that's higher than I was expecting. I'd love to hear some more detailed opinions on the Phantom Thieves' actions.''
The female announcer started walking around, eventually stopping near Namine ''All right, let's try asking this student here. Hypothetically speaking, what are your thoughts on these Phantom Thieves, if they were real?''
''I'd say they've been necessary.''
Akechi looked intrigued ''You say that with such firmness.''
''This completely goes against the opinion you had about them being tried by law, Akechi-kun.'' The male announcer remarked.
''Indeed, it's rather interesting to hear such a strong acknowledgement. In that case, there's one more question I'd like to ask. If someone close to you, for example your friend next to you, if his heart suddenly changed...wouldn't you think it was the work of the Phantom Thieves?''
''No, they only target criminals.''
Akechi hummed ''I see. But how can you be so sure?''
''I believe in them, simple as that.'' She stated simply. ''They've done plenty of good. It's a little different for us, you're speaking objectively. But it's hard as far I'm concerned since we've had to deal with one of those incidents before all this started.''
''I assume you're referring to that P.E teacher? So your opinion is affected by circumstances. That's fair. It seems they've impacted your life more than any of us.'' The female announcer noted.
''Indeed, it would be hard to remain impartial then. Whether the Thieves' actions are good or not, I feel there is a more important issue at hand.'' Akechi paused, at the announcer's inquiry, he explained. ''The matter of how they change people's hearts. If they honestly possess that ability...it could be used for more than extracting confessions. It could be that what seem to be ordinary crimes are actually being perpetrated by these methods.''
''You know, you're absolutely right.''
''Oh, please don't misunderstand. This is all purely hypothetical. It is only if people who can use such a power truly exist. Either way though, this cannot be ignored. The existence of the Phantom Thieves would be a threat to our everyday lives. To be honest, I'm already working alongside the police to help sort this matter out.'' Akechi declared.
The four thieves began talking about the interview between themselves...
''It kinda seemed like what he was saying might be right...'' Ann remarked.
Ryuji frowned ''He made it sound like we're the baddies. I don't like it.''
''But the stuff about the police, do you think it's for real?''
''He can say whatever he wants. The justice of it all is is something we can decide for ourselves.'' Morgana stated.
''I think you're right.'' Namine agreed. ''If things really were so black and white as he seems to think, we never would've had to become Phantom Thieves. The law isn't nearly as effective as he thinks. Not when it really counts, we know better than to believe that."
''Exactly.'' Morgana concurred as their friends nodded.
But she wasn't done "Although, I'm not sure he was completely wrong about the change of heart." The three thieves stared, not expecting the statement. "I've been thinking this over for a while and honestly, if we had another method, I might have taken it. They should pay for what they've done but...even if you disregard the mental shutdowns and the breakdowns knowing we have the power to do that to people...it kind of scares me."
Ann couldn't help remembering that Namine had been most firm about who they should target, now really understanding why. As much as their targets deserved what they got, it was indeed alarming to see how much the change of heart affected them.
"Come on, you're not seriously listening to him. We're not the bad guys here!" Ryuji huffed.
Ann scowled at him "That's not it! Use your head, she means we have to be careful with how we use that power!"
Their leader nodded "This isn't about heroes and villains, you know. It's never been about that to me."
"As expected of you, Namine, I couldn't agree more." Morgana was truly relieved she was so responsible. He did feel bad though, he'd been with her all this time and he never noticed how much this bothered her. The feline thief made a note to apologize later, he wanted to talk to her about this some more.
''Oh, sorry, I gotta go take a leak. Can you wait here? I'll be right back.'' Ryuji suddenly stated.
Morgana shook his head while Ann grimaced ''Oh my god, I'm gonna keep going, okay?'' She walked away.
''Oh, it's you!''
Namine blinked, starting when she saw Akechi. ''I'm glad I found you...I wanted to thank you in person.'' The girl gave him a quizzical look. ''To paraphrase Heigel, advancement cannot occur without both thesis and antitheses...''
She wasn't sure what to make of that statement ''Ah, meaning you're open to hearing both sides of an exchange?''
''Effectively yes.'' He smiled. ''I found our discussion quite meaningful. Few people around me are so willing to speak their minds as freely as you did earlier. Adults are only interested in using the young, while they simply do as adults say...I feel like our discussions could prove quite fruitful. Would you mind talking with me again sometime?''
''Sure, it's fine.''
''Thank you. It makes me glad to hear that...The students from Shujin are truly quite interesting.'' Akechi stated. ''I look forward to seeing you again. Well then.'' He turned to leave.
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 Justice Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power.
''...Talk about a problematic guy to get involved with.'' Morgana remarked.
''Maybe but wouldn't it be worse if I refused? It'd just look odd.''
''I'm not arguing with that. This is a good chance, there's probably a lot we can learn from him though.''
Ryuji walked over ''Sorry for takin' so long...wait was that Akechi? I can't stand that high and mighty attitude. Just breathin' the same air as him makes me sick. Come on, let's go.''
Later, that evening, back in Leblanc...
''Hey, kid, you've got a visitor.'' Sojiro called to Namine.
''Hm?'' She poked her head out of the kitchen to find...''Nijima-senpai?''
''Good evening.'' Makoto walked over. ''I asked around and was told you lived here. Hyakuya-san, were you serious about the offer that day?''
Namine remembered suggesting that she help the older girl before. ''Yeah, sure thing. You want to start now?''
''Please.''
Makoto led her to the apartment where one of the members of the student council lived. It seemed the boy they found had known what this was about because he was less than friendly right from the get go...
''Please tell us what you know. If we can just give the police enough information...'' Makoto started.
''Yeah, right, like they can do anything.'' The boy scoffed. ''If they were going to stop that gang, they should've done so before! It's not going to help at all. Just leave it, Miss Prez.''
''You can't be sure.'' The girl retorted. ''I want to do something about this to help the students.''
''What can any of us do?'' He scoffed. ''I'm just hoping to play along so those guys will be done with me and that's that. Not much we can do against a big gang like that.''
Namine noted his words and tone ''...The students are far from the only victims, huh?''
''By the way they were bragging? I'd say almost definitely.'' He affirmed.
''Isn't there anything you can tell us?'' Frankly, with her own experiences, she had about as much faith in the police as he did. She wasn't about to voice that now though. ''At least so we can spread the word in school and make sure everyone is well informed.''
The boy sighed ''...Fine, when you put it like that. I guess it could work...''
He proceeded to tell them everything he was willing to share, some of which fit with what the girls learned during their visit to Shibuya. Deciding that he was done, the boy left.
Sadly, this worked much better than their other visit as the second student Makoto had in mind didn't even want to so much as see them. All he would say over the intercom was that what they were doing was useless and there was no point.
Makoto sighed as they left the building ''...Suddenly I have a very good idea how you and Sakamoto-san must have felt while dealing with Kamoshida.''
Namine wasn't about to deny that this whole deal really was vexing as their attempt was back then. Unfortunately, if they didn't have enough info about this gang there was no way for the Phantom Thieves to do anything for the time being. It was partly why she hadn't told the rest of the team about the situation.
''You know, with how resigned they are, I can't help but wonder how long this gang has been around.''
''That's a good point.'' Makoto remarked. ''They must be even more powerful than I thought. I just can't stand this though. If only they were cooperative I'm sure things would be different! I wish they were the only ones! Why does it have to be this way?!'' She paused, noticing Namine staring at her in surprise and confusion. ''...sorry, I...''
The girl looked sympathetic ''It's okay. Go on, I'm sure this must be frustrating.''
''It really is...'' Makoto sighed. ''...I just can't help but wonder...more of the students are supporting the Phantom Thieves as the days go by. I even heard a few of the students wishing they would stop this gang. But then we have people who won't even give the police a chance...is it really that hopeless?''
''Ah, what do you think of the Phantom Thieves, Nijima-senpai?'' Namine asked curiously. ''You're investigating them too right?''
''Yes...I was asked to. But to be honest, I'm not sure what to make of them. It seems like they've done plenty of good so far but still...if they found all this information, wouldn't it have been better to go about it differently? They're criminals themselves this way.'' She remarked. ''Hyakuya-san, how do you feel about them?''
''Well, I support them. I would say they did what was necessary. They don't just pick any request you know? They fully make sure that the person targeted has to have a change of heart.'' The girl shrugged ''Honestly...I wonder how just the law can be sometimes. I learned that it can be manipulated easily.''
''You did? How?'' Makoto's eyes widened as Namine gave her a brief rundown of the reason she was brought to the city. ''I heard about the case but...that's what actually happened? You were trying to help that woman but this drunk turned it all on you? That's terrible!''
''Yeah, well...things are looking up for me, so I'm managing...'' Namine shook her head. ''...so, I know you don't like it but honestly, I'm wondering if the police really can help. Their interventions are the last resort from where I'm standing. Look at it this way, what would've happened if the Phantom Thieves hadn't formed? There's a big chance we'd still have to put up with Kamoshida for one thing.''
''That's...'' The older girl hesitated, but knowing how much Kobayakawa defended the man, there was no arguing that statement. He was still obsessing over the school's reputation too...
''I'm just saying that both situations are similar. Back then, the students were just forced to accept things for the way they are now because they didn't see a choice. Because people turned a blind eye to their suffering.'' It was because she couldn't do that that she chose to become a phantom thief. ''Isn't it about the same here? They haven't been given reason to think otherwise.''
Makoto had to give the girl that one. It wasn't like the school was doing anything to help the victims of the gangs after all. She knew Namine had no faith in the school helping at all but when she looked at it that way...can they really be blamed for not believing in the higher authorities?
The brunette had a thought ''...I heard about what you did before...the way you stood up against him for others. Even after all that happened, you still want to help?''
''Yeah, well...I can't just look away from something I know is wrong. I'd regret it forever if I don't try to do anything.'' She stated.
''I see...I wonder if the same goes for the Phantom Thieves.'' Makoto closed her eyes for a moment. ''At any rate...thank you, Hyakuya-san, you've given me a lot to think about.''
''No problem, Senpai, I offered to help before.''
''Nevertheless, I appreciate it. Let's stop our investigation for now, we should go back.''
The Phantom Thieves began their celebration for their recent success the following day, getting together at Leblanc. They brought over ingredients and got busy making the hotpot.
The five enjoyed the meal after that, sharing stories and getting to know each other better in the midst of it.
''Those seniors really tried to haze you like that?'' Morgana snickered.
Ryuji grumbled ''Don't remind me...do I want to know how you found out about that story, Ann?''
''Rumor mill.'' She returned simply.
''Ugh, 'course it was that...''
''Well, at least you got to avoid the worst of it. They were the ones who got labeled in the end, right?'' Namine remarked.
''Yeah, serves them right too.''
Talk shifted soon to Ann and Shiho, with Namine informing them of her talk with the latter the other day.
''Damn, she's considering a transfer too?'' Ryuji grimaced. ''...Not that I blame her, really...sheesh, you'd think the school could have handled this better.''
''I'll say, the students were barely any better...'' Ann scowled. ''...she says nothing's decided yet but looking at it from Shiho's view, it's hard to see why she would want to come back.''
''Yeah, she's been through a lot.'' Morgana remarked and Yusuke nodded.
''Hmm, Shujin seems somewhat similar to Kosei from the looks of things.'' The artist mused. ''Either way, labeling is common around both parts.''
Ann snorted ''Oh yeah, that's for sure...''
''Well, when it comes to gettin' labeled, nobody's got it worse than Namine.'' Ryuji remarked.
''Is this about her past?'' Yusuke asked.
''Now that I think about it, we never heard the whole story.'' Morgana realized.
''Well...'' Namine started. ''...it was like this...''
The girl explained the story again, this time with even more details than what she told Ryuji in the ramen shop.
She had just heading back to her home from a doctor's appointment one night. But then she heard a woman screaming for help, leaving her alarmed. Namine quickly searched and found the source at an empty street.
A drunk man was trying to force himself on her, telling her off for struggling and commanding her to be silent. The woman had tried to reach out to Namine for help but the man merely dismissed the girl, telling her to go away.
But Namine couldn't do that-there was no chance of her abandoning the woman to that awful man's whims.
She hadn't even pushed him that hard, only enough to catch him by surprise. But he stumbled and hit himself on the ground, immediately blaming her for it. The man swore to make her pay-leading to the events that almost ruined her life.
Many of the people she grew up with had decided she was a lost cause and cut her out of their lives. They believed a stranger over here-they never tried to understand, to listen. Nothing. It was as if all the times they spent together were meaningless. The fact still hurt a lot but she refused to shed anymore tears over this. Never again.
''You guys more or less know what happened after that.'' Namine concluded.
Ryuji grit his teeth ''Just listenin' to it pisses me off...''
''You got an assault on your record just for that?'' Ann clarified.
''The woman sounds quite horrible as well. She's stayed quiet all this time.'' Yusuke frowned.
''That man is just the kind of person whose heart we should steal! Who is he and where can we find him?!'' Morgana demanded.
''I told you before, he insisted on being anonymous. And I just can't remember much about him...with the way things went down...'' Namine trailed off.
''Oh...'' The cat's ears drooped. ''...well, considering what happened, I'm sure it must have been a real shock...I understand all too well the pain of not being able to remember the important details of your life...''
''The victim's personal information is always kept secret. Identifying the man will prove difficult.'' Yusuke mused. ''Besides, the courts already made their ruling, didn't they? Whatever we do, Namine's record won't go away.''
''I can't stand it...'' Ryuji's eyes narrowed.
Ann decided to voice something that had been bothering her for a while ''You know, there's one thing I don't get. Namine, didn't anybody besides your grandparents try to help you? Your grandparents sound awesome but what about your parents?''
The other three realized she had a point. The news she was keeping was likely bad as Namine appeared uncomfortable at this right away.
''That's...''
Morgana groaned ''I can't believe I didn't notice that before! This whole time I've been living here and I've never heard of them contacting you...''
''Maybe you just missed out?'' Ryuji suggested.
'He didn't.' Arsene countered. 'I believe Namine told you all before. We've been forced to face this all while they turned their backs on us.'
''Wait, you don't mean...?'' Yusuke started.
''Your own parents believe that load of crap?!'' Ann looked stunned.
''...Yeah, Mona wasn't missing out on anything of the sort. I haven't heard a thing from them since my arrest.'' Namine stated. ''...I'm not going to tell what happened that night because trust me, you don't want to know. They've made their stance in this really clear.''
''Well then, they're terrible parents.'' Yusuke's calm expression was a contrast to the anger in his tone. ''I've only known you recently but I can tell you'd never do what you were accused of.''
''Same here!'' Ann agreed and Morgana nodded.
She gave them a grateful look, touched by their support ''Thanks..."
''This world is so messed up! The weak are left to fight for themselves, while rotten adults get away with what they want!'' Ryuji cried.
''And those in power don't do anything to help the situation.'' Morgana added.
''Can't we fix it though? Nobody would even know...'' Yusuke trailed off. ''...we just need to show the world what true justice is. We'll make them come to their senses.''
''You're right, Yusuke, that's gotta be what our powers are for!'' Ryuji agreed.
''Yeah, that's one of the reasons I want to keep this going.'' Namine admitted.
''Sounds good to me. The flashier the missions, the cooler we end up looking.'' Morgana smiled.
Soon after that, the four teens headed to the public baths while Morgana decided to go to sleep.
As they settled down in the warm water, Yusuke had a thought,
''Ryuji, out of curiosity, what do you think of Ann and Namine as women?''
''Well...'' The blond started. ''...Ann's personality is kinda rough but her looks totally make up for that...''
''I see...I shall be sure to tell her that.''
''Please don't!'' Ryuji said at once.
''What of Namine then?'' Yusuke pressed on.
''Well, she's a brilliant fri...'' Ryuji caught himself and gave the teen a dark look ''...hey, let's see how you like it-what do you think of the girls, huh?''
The artist thought about it ''I can agree with you about Ann, her personality may be somewhat abrasive but her heart is in the right place. Her beauty is amazing to behold. As for Namine, her charm drew my breath away. Her enduring kindness and compassion only serve to enhance that charm.''
If it had been anyone else, Ryuji might have asked if he had a crush on their leader. Given that it was Yusuke though, he highly doubted the teen ever thought of that. As it were, he was left with one question ''...How can you say that stuff with a straight face?''
''Hm? It's only the truth.'' The artist shrugged. ''Now since I've answered the question-what about you?''
''Forget it, I ain't doin' this.''
On the girls' side...
''Why would you even ask that?'' Namine demanded, raising an eye.
''Aw, come on, it's natural!'' Ann returned. ''What? You really weren't interested in dating anyone, even if at least lately?''
''No, I'm definitely right now anyway. I didn't feel like it before anyway. Not to mention, things have been crazy hectic for me. I didn't really get around to thinking on that front much...''
''Ah, right...'' Ann realized she might have put her foot in her mouth there. After all, her friend had lost the two most recent years of her life. She had just been coping with it all when she wound up being forced to come to Tokyo. ''...I'm sorry.''
Namine waved it off ''...Since we're doing that kind of talk, what about you? No one catch you interest?''
''Not in the slightest.'' Ann replied without hesitation. ''Sure, dating would sound nice...for that to work it has to be someone who likes me for who I am, not just going at it to get in my pants.''
''My sentiments exactly.'' The burgundy haired girl stated. ''Oh yeah, remind me to show you the pictures Grandma sent me. They're in France now and it all looks amazing.''
''I'll bet. They're lucky...it would be great to go on a tour like that. For the record, you are so introducing us to them.''
The girl laughed ''You got it.''
The four began to go on their respective ways home when Ann spotted a shop and decided to take a look, with Yusuke going along with her. It was then that Ryuji and Namine spotted Mishima walking nearby.
''Hey, Mishima!'' The blond called out, making the boy stop and look at them in surprise. ''What's up? Why the long face?''
''Hey, Sakamoto, Hyakuya-san...let's just say my plans failed big time.''
''Plans?'' Namine echoed.
''Yeah, well...ah...''
Ryuji happened to note his glance at her then, which gave him an idea ''What, were you planning a date or somethin'?''
''How did you know?!''
''For real? I was kidding!'' Mishima groaned. ''Sorry man, what happened?''
The other boy sighed ''I was planning to meet a girl who I got to talk to on the Phan-Site...she's a fan of the Phantom Thieves. We were supposed to meet up in the station but I waited and waited and she never showed up. I tried checking up on her and she said she was sick.''
''Ya never know, she might have been.'' Ryuji returned.
''She didn't sound sick at all...'' Mishima stated. ''...no wonder there's all sorts of talk about online dating. That was terrible...''
''Well, don't feel too bad. If that date didn't work out, you can just try again. You can make it work, Mishima-kun.'' Namine offered.
''You think so?''
The girl nodded and Ryuji added ''Yeah, you should probably not try this again though.''
He smiled ''Heh, I hear you...Thanks, I'll see you guys in school.''
''The prisoner Namine has returned.'' Justine stated.
''You're in the presence of our master, stand up straight!'' Caroline chided.
''The bonds that you have reeled in are quite intriguing...'' Igor said with usual grin. ''...in other words they all have been unfairly labeled by society and are standing up against such fates. Have you noticed? Your heart seems to inspire theirs.''
''You think so? I don't know if I'd put it that way...I'm just going by what I think is right.'' Namine admitted.
''My, how modest. A good trait indeed.'' Igor chuckled. ''Outcasts of society...in other words, you're picaresque. Deepen your bonds with them. These bonds will be crucial for your development...I look forward to seeing what comes of this. I shall grant you power befitting of you newfound your growth.''
''Thanks, Igor...''
''You're quite welcome. May you continue devoting yourself further to your rehabilitation.''
Okay, let's stop here.
Whew, seems like I piled a bunch of stuff together. I did consider breaking this into two chapters but I just didn't want to go for it after all...Anyway, I hope it was good. Gotta admit, Akechi was one of the characters I've been looking forward to introducing in the story. Let's just say there a few ideas I want to try with him.
I've been organizing my work for this story. I pretty much got plans set for Kaneshiro and Futaba's arcs and even a couple of ideas for Sae's and Shido's...my current main problem is Okumura's Palace. I just don't know how to handle that part of the story. There are things I'd like to try but I can't decide if I should implement them in his Palace or Sae's. I'm kind of biased in a way since Haru's one of my favourite characters and I'm sort of on the fence about what would happen to Kunikazu, because I honestly don't want to kill him. One of my ideas would wind up involving him. Bottom line is, I'm kind of torn...
Haah, sorry, I just wanted to get that out in the open. It's frustrating me...
Anywho, thanks for anyone who read, reviewed and follows my work and I hope you stay with me.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank 4)
Morgana (Magician Rank 3)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 4)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 2)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 3)
Igor (Aeon Rank 2)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 4)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 3)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 3)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 3)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 2)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 2)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 1)