Vangran: Thanks. I'm still working on it. I also think Kunikazu could make a great father once the change of heart takes root. About Kaneshiro, you'll see starting next chapter, this is all about the set up for it.
Early in the morning, Namine wound up back in the Velvet Room, around the same time Yusuke had awoken. He decided to leave quietly and avoid rousing his teammates, who were clearly still restful. He found Sojiro preparing for the day downstairs and the two soon began to talk after the barista gave him a cup of coffee.
''It's such a delight to enjoy coffee of this quality.'' Yusuke smiled.
''I know the kid offered to help and I'm all right with that. You could stay until you find a place, you know. I can't promise it'd be comfortable though, but I think Namine will try to make it be that way.'' Sojiro stated.
''Thank you, but I'll return to the dorm. I realized something after talking with everyone last night. Perhaps it's due to my upbringing but I don't know anything of the world, let alone other people. If I'm to depict people in my art, I need to learn more about them I must learn to interact with them. I'll return to the dorms...and start over by talking with the people closest to me.''
''I see. Good on you for realizing that yourself.''
''There's no need to exaggerate. May I come again sometime to enjoy your coffee?''
''My doors are always open.''
''For all her kindness, Namine's been through a lot too, from what I've heard...'' Yusuke mused. ''...Are you related to her?''
''Huh? Oh...I'm not. I'm friends with her grandparents.''
''I may be overstepping my boundaries but why did you decide to take her in?''
''My reason, huh...Partly because of them, they did ask me to anyway.''
''That's all?''
''Doesn't take much when someone takes consideration on someone else. Your art instructor-um former, that is.'' Sojiro amended. ''He must've felt something for you too, besides just stealing your talents.''
Yusuke could admit that there was some truth to that ''Perhaps...I cannot hate him from the depths of my heart either.'' He paused. ''I should probably get going...''
Sojiro raised an eye, glancing at the Sayuri ''Hey, I know what you said yesterday but are you sure about leaving the painting behind? It'd be a waste to keep here.''
''Even if I kept it at the dorms, it'd only be met with skepticisim. I doubt it'd want that. Adding a hint of color to an otherwise ordinary day...I'm sure my mother would've done the same.''
The barista seemed intrigued ''...I see. I'll hold on to it for you then.''
''Thank you for the coffee.'' Yusuke grabbed his bag. ''...I'll come again.''
Namine woke up a little later to learn that Yusuke had left, and the artist explained his plan to her with text messages. While surprised as it did come out of the blue, she understood how he felt and wished him luck before leaving for school.
The four thieves got together at lunchtime, deciding to hang out in the courtyard after a while...
''...Man, that Akechi still pisses me off! We're some kinda threat?!'' Ryuji scowled.
''Hey, keep your voice down.'' Namine cautioned.
''Yeah, this isn't the time to just talk freely!'' Morgana added.
But he waved them off ''Ah, just ease up. No one's here!'' He huffed. ''If someone else could help 'em, we wouldn't be doin' stuff as the Phantom Thieves to start with!''
Ann bopped Ryuji on the head ''They're right, you're too loud!''
''Who cares? Everybody's talking about this stuff anyway! It'd just be more suspicious if we were whisperin'.'' His eye twitched. ''Hey, you really just gonna be eatin' and eatin' that stuff by yourself?! Gimme!''
''Sorry, just ate the last one.''
''You guys are too laid back. The police are getting involved..." A sigh escaped Morgana as he thought it over "...but I guess it's better than being on eggshells all the time."
Ann bit her lip ''So...we're going to be okay if we keep doing this...right?'
''We can't let the cops scare us outta being Phantom Thieves.'' Ryuji stated.
''But...what about that weird guy from Madarame's Palace...there's a lot we don't know.''
The sound of a click startled the four, making them notice Makoto as she walked over. ''You three seem to be having so much fun, I'm a little jealous.''
''Are you snooping on us again? We told you, we don't know nothin'.'' Ryuji grunted.
''Why do you think I'm here to question you?''
''Oh, like you aren't?'' Ann scoffed.
''Hm, not quite. I couldn't help but notice how upset you seemed. My ears are always open to the trouble of my peers, you know.''
Ann frowned ''You're really that hungry for a recommendation letter?...Of course you are. Like anybody would take your annoying job if they weren't.''
"Hey wait, that's not..." Namine started to protest but both girls were clearly focused on each other.
Makoto's eyes narrowed ''What's that supposed to mean?''
''You're student council president, right? Wouldn't you have known about Kamoshida?''
Makoto winced, the model's words hurting far more than he glare ''He... honestly seemed like a good teacher...''
''Oh, but you always take the teacher's side. Like a good council president, right?''
The brunette had enough ''Then...how about you? What did you do for your friend? You were angry with me that day but it's just like you said. Hyakuya-san here was the one who intervened to calm her down. The fact is, you were much closer to her than we both were, how did you help?''
Ann's temper flared ''There wasn't anyway to help on my own...I couldn't do anything for her!''
''Hey, come on...'' Namine started. ''...look, there's no point in looking back now and starting fights, okay?''
''...True.'' Makoto relented while Ann turned her head.
''If those Phantom Thieves are our there helping people, I'd root for them, no questions asked.'' Ryuji stated. ''They've gotta be more dependable than some people I know.''
Namine couldn't help but note how the girl cringed then ''...Just make sure you show up to classes, all right?'' She left.
''You know what I asked earlier about whether we'll be okay if we keep this up? I take it back.'' Ann said firmly. ''I'd be ashamed to let it end now.''
''Yeah, that's more like it.'' Ryuji grunted.
As Makoto walked away, she heard Namine speak ''This is why I don't talk about her with you. Guys, would you lay off Nijima-senpai? She's actually trying to do some good.''
Ann wasn't convinced ''I'm not seeing it.''
''Look, it's hard on her too. If the teachers couldn't do much what do you think a student could've done? You know what it was like for us dealing with Kamoshida...''
Makoto felt a wave of gratitude towards the girl, wondering if she deserved the support. As she came to know about Namine, she felt that she could see things differently-something that would help a certain choice of hers become much easier...
The team debated their next move again after school. Morgana glanced at the big window of the station nearby before turning to Namine ''Shouldn't we tell them about that?''
''I don't know, Mona. It's not like much changed since we talked about this before.''
''Yeah, but still...''
''What're you guys talking about?'' Ann asked.
'There's no need to hesitate. You've done what you could, it's time to bring more heads into this.' Arsene remarked.
'Exactly, what's the harm? They can help.' Zorro added.
Namine sighed, unable to argue ''Fine...guys, the thing is, we might be close to finding a new target.''
The two stared as Ann spoke ''Are you serious?''
''Why didn't you tell us before?'' Ryuji added.
Morgana took over ''We were looking for more details. It's still pretty vague. But it's only getting harder.''
''You don't say?'' Yusuke looked curious ''How did you arrive by this news anyway?''
The two proceeded to explain about the situation with Makoto, leaving the others surprised. Ann frowned a bit ''You're really way too nice, Namine. You shouldn't trust someone like her.''
Namine groaned ''Not this again. Are you guys even listening to me?''
Morgana sighed, he really couldn't blame the girl. After all she had tried to point out the facts they learned about Makoto but it really seemed like that hadn't done any good.
''So just tell me, what exactly do you know that isn't started up by rumors? That's why I decided to talk to Nijima-senpai.'' Namine went on. ''I know what it's like being treated badly because of stuff like this and I didn't want to do the same thing to others.''
''I was surprised too but Namine's right on this one.'' Morgana added helpfully. ''I think that Nijima girl really does care. It's just that not counting Namine, no one's even tried to help her. It's like the trouble you guys told me about with Kamoshida all over again.''
Ryuji grimaced, when he put it like that, the boy could imagine it happening. ''Gotcha...what do we do then?''
''I can answer that.''
Everyone followed the new voice to its source to find Makoto watching them.
''What're you doing here?''
''Hyakuya-san just finished explaining the issue, it's the same reason I'm here.'' Makoto stated. ''I know you're all the Phantom Thieves.''
To say the five were alarmed might be putting it mildly. ''What're you talking about?'' Ann started.
''There's no point pretending, I heard you all talking at lunch. Besides...'' She played a bit of the recording she had kept on her phone, affirming that she had in fact saved the conversation in question.
''...So you're here to threaten us?'' Ann scowled.
''What the hell?'' Ryuji demanded. ''Namine was just trying to talk us into cutting you a break...''
''Yes, I'm aware.'' Makoto interjected. ''Which is just why I came to talk now. I needed to have something to make sure you wouldn't try to get rid of me again.''
It was then that Yusuke realized how bad the interactions between his friends and the brunette went. It really did seem that Namine was the only one willing to hear her out in the first place. ''...Then what did you have in mind?''
''...Before I explain, let me ask, why are you doing this?''
''We're the only ones who could...or even would do anything sometimes, Senpai.'' Namine replied. ''We're bringing unseen evils to light, fighting for those who can't fight for themselves. That's what the Phantom Thieves are about. We want to encourage others so they gain strength. That's why it doesn't matter what the police says about us, we do this to help people.''
''Precisely.'' Yusuke crossed his arms. ''We all know what it's like to be oppressed, but that's just why we can help others out of this. From my understanding, if they hadn't acted, odds are Kamoshida might still be out there. I know for a fact that Madarame would still be...they were the reason I gained courage to fight him.''
''I see...'' Makoto closed her eyes for a moments. ''...you were right, Hyakuya-san. I've been thinking about our talk the other day for a while. That's what helped me decide. It's just like you guessed, Prinicpal Kobayakawa is completely ignoring the issue of the gangs, even thought it's affecting more and more students as the time goes on. He's just invested in discovering the Phantom Thieves. He's trying to force me to keep this up but I can't...I've had enough. I don't know if the police is doing anything at this point. But I can't stand letting this gang keep going. I just don't know what to do...No matter what people say, as things stand the Phantom Thieves have done plenty of good. That's why...I came to ask you to stop this gang.''
Everyone sans Namine and Morgana were surprised. She went on ''Consider it a test if you will, I want to see what the Phantom Thieves are truly about.''
''Did you find anything new?'' Namine inquired.
''It's not much to go on but...I think the person you should be looking for is the leader of this gang. He calls himself a mafia boss and it looks like he's that dangerous loanshark you learned about in our first search.'' Makoto crossed her arms. ''Well, you can say I'm here to see about the Phantom Thieves' justice. What do you say?''
Namine glanced at her teammates in turn, seeing them nod back before she looked back at Makoto. ''We'll just have to show you the truth about us.''
The older girl began to smirk ''I hope to see this confidence pay off.''
Their joint investigation started the following day. After talking things through, the Phantom Thieves started off with Shibuya to try and gather some information. At the beginning it seemed pointless but none of them were ready to simply lay down and call it quits.
In the midst of her search, Ann happened to spot a couple of students she vaguely recognized from school. Both seemed to be worked up about something, with one particularly panicking about making a time limit while the other just tells him to hurry it up.
Thinking that such a shady deal could easily start in secluded places like a back alley, Morgana decided to try looking into those with Ryuji's help. The teen thought it wouldn't hurt to ask for extra help so he decided to text Mishima, knowing how the boy liked to be well-informed.
As it turned out, Mishima knew about the rumors they were looking into. Upon learning why Ryuji was asking, he mentioned the talk about a boy who started acting strangely after supposedly having gotten a new job. He promised to look into it and to get back in touch if and when he found new information.
Eventually, Morgana and Ryuji were able to find a student who stopped to talk to a homeless man. Neither were close enough to hear everything said but it was clear that there was some code and process involved.
Since it was getting close to sunset, the team decided to retire for the night...
Yusuke had gone back with Namine and Morgana to Leblanc as he wanted to see the Sayuri.
Morgana went upstairs but Namine soon picked up on how troubled their teammate seemed to be.
''Hey, something wrong?'' She tilted her head.
''I suppose...I have much on my mind.'' He admitted. ''I have decided to expand my horizons as you know, I now realize how limited my perspective was. How naive I have been...In order to be able to paint true beauty, I feel the need to understand the human heart. The trouble is...I haven't been able to paint like I used to ever since I learned the truth about Madarame. It seems I've entered a slump. Namine, what do you think I should paint to capture the contents of the heart?''
''Hmm...something like a dream world maybe? Something deep and profound.''
''Perhaps-wait, a world...deep...that's it!'' Yusuke had a thought. ''Mementos! The desire that emanates from that place is the root of humanity. You have a unique perspective, Namine. Would you come with me to Mementos?''
''Well...if you think it'll help, sure. We've got some time.''
''This distorted realm, teeming with Shadows...the physical embodiment of the desires of the human heart...'' Fox continued to paint. ''...the same thing which brought forth the beauty of the Sayuri can also create such morbid fabrications. Very fascinating...''
''The heart is akin to an abyss.'' Fox paused. ''Regarding the cause of slump, I may have an idea...In that other dimension, I have seen the perversion of Madarame's heart...It was then the art realm I so believed was distorted by greed and unchecked desires. That is when the world's true ugliness became clear for me. And from that point forward, my brush has been stayed by crippling hesitation...Does pure beauty truly exist? And can hands tainted by Madarame's depravity capture it?''
''I think you can. Have some faith.'' Joker crossed her arms. ''Look, he might have taught you, but you're better than Madarame. You'd never sink to his level.''
''Thank you for the kind words...'' Fox sighed. ''...but the fact remains that I have yet to find an answer that feels suitable.''
After a few minutes, he noticed Joker looking around warily. ''...What's the matter? Have you been overcome by an urge to paint?''
''It's just...I'm not so sure painting here is a safe idea.'' She was glad he found inspiration but painting here was not a good idea.
''Your concern is understandable. However, I feel a revelation coming.'' Fox's eyes widened. ''...Truly, inspiration has struck! Such brilliant composition, this must be it! My heart races!''
''Um, that's...''
The two were startled when four Shadows appeared before them, turning into slimes.
Fox's expression hardened ''How inelegant! You wish to carry out your distorted will, foolish Shadow? I shall cut you down for interrupting my work!''
After the battle...
''It seems I've become too passionate...'' Fox remarked. ''...you have my thanks, Joker. I'm glad you were here.''
''Hey, don't worry, I did promise to help.''
Fox gave a small smile ''Hm...your presence makes me think of Theo.''
Joker blinked ''Theo?''
''I was referring to Van Gogh's brother Theo. Van Gogh did not achieve fame in his lifetime but he found an admirer and supporter in his brother.''
''Oh...well, glad I can help.''
''And I thank you for that again. I'm aware that this could be troublesome. Not to mention that there aren't many willing to deal with my...eccentricity.'' Fox remarked. ''Allow me to aid you in return. I hope to be able to help you regain your lost passion for music as well.''
''T-that's...'' Joker was honestly thrown, not expecting that at all.
Fox was distracted though when he noticed a card in her hand ''By the way, what're you holding?''
''Oh, I picked it off one of the Shadows before.''
''Hm, whenever I see a blank paper I have an urge to paint on it. May I?'' The girl gave him the card. ''Ah, yes, I have it...hm, this will work...''
Both discovered a surprise when he finished as the card started to glow.
Fox blinked twice ''What in the world...?''
''I think you might have just created a skill card, Fox.'' Joker perked up. ''That's a pretty handy power.''
''Indeed.'' Fox was also pleased. ''Joker, would you mind helping me further? If I overcome this slump I may be able to aid the group more. I know, why don't we act like the thieves we are and strike a deal?''
She smiled ''Sounds good, I'll be counting on you.''
''Yes, you can rely on me.''
I am thou, thou art
Thou hast acquired a new vow.
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh thy chains of captivity...
With the birth of the Emperor Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
As she headed off from school to meet with her friends and get Shibuya the following day to continue their search, Namine happened to come across Akechi.
''Ah, hello again, Hyakuya-san.'' He smiled. ''Since I am now involved in the investigation of the Phantom Thieves, I thought it would help to come here and learn what I can about them. This is the place of their first operation after all.''
''That makes sense...so what did you find?''
''Oh, quite some interesting information. I believe you're aware of the Phantom Thieves' forum?'' The detective went on when she nodded. ''It's more useful than I imagined, to think it even helps them take requests. They haven't made a move yet but I wonder who they'll target next. Do you believe it'll be someone evil?'' He hummed when the girl replied positively. ''I see but how are you so sure?''
''How are you so sure that the opposite would happen?'' Namine countered. ''I've just decided to keep faith. The Phantom Thieves did plenty to help people. You didn't see how bad things got here because of Kamoshida. What's worse, his victims didn't even try to oppose him because they were so convinced that there was no point. You know we're friends with Yusuke, so I know plenty about the situation with Madarame too. Both of them were powerful, because they preyed on others. People just gave up, thinking it was no use to even try. Sometimes I can't help that society seems to be apathetic...but that's just why I can have in the Phantom Thieves, because they fight for those whose voices are unheard.''
''I see...'' Akechi looked thoughtful. ''...I think I understand your point of view more now.'' He raised an eye. ''By the way, I've been wondering...why does the atmosphere around here seem so tense?''
A sigh ''There's loads of rumors spreading around, nothing good. And Shujin's rumor mill is crazy fast.''
''Hmm, I've seen something similar in other schools.'' He recalled. ''It seems like a waste of time. Finding the truth out shouldn't be too hard if they try, what with resources like the media at easy reach...At any rate, thank you for your time. I should be going now.''
Namine nodded back, watching him leave for a few moments ''...Huh, I wonder if I should've told him about the gang situation...''
''That's likely not going to help.'' The burgundy haired girl blinked and turned her head, seeing Makoto approach her. ''I'd be surprised if Akechi-kun hasn't heard about it yet. Either way, he's just cooperating with the police. I can't even be sure if they are going to act in the first place...especially since we're still in square one.''
''That's true...''
''Anyway, I was hoping to find you.'' The brunette admitted. ''I think it would be useful to exchange contact information to help with this investigation.''
''Oh good point, sure, let's do that.''
Thanks to Mishima's information, Ann and Ryuji were able to find the boy from the rumors. But he had refused to talk about it, only giving minimal details when pressed. Ann tried to convince him that she needed the info as she wanted a new job but the whole thing failed. The only good that came out of it was the boy leaving in a hurry as he talked on the phone, leading to them hearing him mention something about a meeting near a street.
''I told you to stop.'' Ryuji stated.
''Oh shut up, I almost had him!'' Ann retorted.
He snorted ''Yeah, right...that was so fake.'' Ignoring the girl's glare, he went on. ''Never mind that, we should go. I think I figured out where the place he meant might be.''
It turned out to be a back alley near the Protein Lovers' Gym, the place where he and Namine had started to visit recently. Having informed the girl with some texts, Ryuji and Ann met with Namine there and they were soon found by a man.
''Hey, you three got some time?'' A man walked over. ''I got a great job for you. It's real easy, guess you could call it a delivery job.''
Ryuji arched an eye ''What kind of delivery job?''
'It seems we didn't have to look very hard in the end.' Makoto thought as she walked closer.
''You're high schoolers, right? Don't you want something than just your allowances?''
''Hm...By delivery, do you mean that of suspicious materials?'' Makoto inquired, bringing their attention to her.
''Heh, you're a funny girl.''
''So you won't answer?'' Ryuji cocked his head as Makoto frowned
''Then I was right...''
The man walked closer ''What's up with you anyway? Why're you asking all those questions, huh?''
''...We'll call the cops.'' Namine's warning surprised the both of them.
''...It was all joke. Why would I get worked up over some dumb kids? Anyways, I can't hang. See ya around.''
Makoto didn't want to let this chance slip ''U-um, if you don't want to deal with us, we could always go see your boss.''
''You're really gonna say that, knowing who he is? Heh, no way I believe that. Welp, I'm outta here, you kids are annoying me.''
''Was that the best you could do?''Ann demanded.
''I had to try something.'' Makoto said defensively. ''I'm pretty sure he's part of the mafia we're looking for.''
''So what do you want to do?'' Ryuji asked.
''...Let's get some proof before anything. I tried to do trick him into saying something but he dodged all my traps.'' Makoto paused. ''By the way...thanks for standing up for me, Hyakuya-san.''
The girl shrugged ''I wasn't going to just watch that.''
''I'm...going to home now.'' They began to leave.
Before making to follow her friends, Ann turned at Makoto ''Namine might be taking it lightly but I'm not. Don't think we haven't heard about you questioning the students about her. It's like you were just angling to find a way to get her in trouble.''
''No, I just wanted to...''
''She's trying to trust you but I really don't see why she'd bother. It sounds to me like you just played along with whatever people told you. Kamoshida being a good teacher, Namine being a criminal...If what happened already wasn't bad enough, now you're holding that recording on us. She says you're doing for the students but I'm not convinced. You certainly haven't helped before. She's been hurt more than enough, if you betray her too, you'll answer to us."
Ann walked away, she hated this situation-whether she prounced it or not. Makoto had the recording to hold over their heads and she could expose them any time. She didn't trust her not to do it. The blonde was admittedly surprised that Namine could give her a chance but it was all the more reason for her caution-people had let her down more than enough.
She soon found Namine, Ryuji and Morgana not too far away...
''That boss seems tricky.'' Morgana was saying. ''No wonder the police are having trouble capturing him. Anyway, you have some serious guts. You didn't back down at all against that hooligan.''
''No kidding, you stopped him right in his tracks, Namine.'' Ryuji half-smiled.
''Ah, well, you guys would have done it too.'' She waved it off. ''Anyway, this just keeps getting worse, huh?''
Ryuji nodded ''Yusuke said somethin' about how the trouble spreading even in Kosei. It sounds like this mafia boss really has everything planned out.''
''So what do we do?'' Ann wondered.
''For now, it's best to call it a day.'' Morgana offered. ''Staying here after the sun sets seems like asking for trouble, should we meet up tomorrow?''
''Where though? We can't just talk about this in the station.'' The blonde's point made them stop to think.
Ryuji had an idea ''Don't they rent out rooms in karaoke? How about we go there?''
''That could work! It's private but it could also have enough noise to make sure we can avoid any attention.'' The cat agreed.
''Then let's do that, we'll go over after school.'' Namine said, the other three nodded.
''See you guys tomorrow then.'' Ann took her leave, Namine was about to follow suit when...
''Actually, Namine, can we talk?''
She looked at Ryuji ''Sure, what's up?''
Namine, Ryuji and Morgana were outside the monjayaki place. Morgana looked at Ryuji ''What's the deal? You're a little too secretive for just food.''
''That's not what this is about.'' The blond frowned. ''I've been looking into things. Turns out Yamauchi's coming here to meet with another teacher.''
''So what, you want to spy on him?''
''Yeah...I'm not missing this, he could spill the beans about the track team.'' Ryuji stated. ''If he does, I want to record him on my phone.''
''...That's actually smart for you.'' Morgana's retort would have made him snap but the cat then added. ''You're forgetting something though.''
''What's that?''
Namine decided to answer ''Ryuji, wouldn't he recognize you?'' The teen cringed, having indeed not considered that. The girl spared him from having to respond ''Well it's a good thing you got some help now, isn't it?''
He grinned at the girl as he caught on. Namine winked ''Just leave this to me.''
While her friends waited outside to be safe, Namine noted the teacher who matched Ryuji's description of Yamauchi and discreetly took a table that was close enough to get a clear recording from.
The man seemed to have arrived a while ago and was waiting for someone. Once another teacher arrived, they began to talk.
''Wow, you can really hold your liquor, Yamauchi.'' The second teacher remarked.
''Mmhm, I've had some experience.'' He stated. ''Back in my college days, we'd rent a yacht for the weekend and have massive parties. I must say though...the sake's been tasting particularly sweet lately.''
''No surprise there. Things have been much calmer without Kamoshida. Those were some real dark times for Shujin though, huh? But now that he's gone, you finally get the chance you deserve, Yamauchi!''
He chuckled ''Don't flatter me. He had his strengths, sure but because of him our volleyball team will be forever scarred. The only real option now is to abandon it completely. There has to be a way to bring Shujin back into the limelight though. That's where I come in...''
''With the track team, right?''
Namine frowned, activating the recorder on Ryuji's phone which was hidden in her bag.
Yamauchi nodded ''The students who went through so much hardship under Kamoshida rise up again with a caring new advisor...It'll be the rebirth of a team that found themselves in the depths of despair, the public will love it. Despite my lack of track and field knowledge, I'll form a tight bond with the students...I'll be the protagonist of my very own tear-jerker and of course all the praise for reviving them will go to me, their incredible, loving advisor. I'll have to hire a great coach if I want to pull this off though.''
''So you're gonna pretend to coach them while someone else does the legwork? Amazing, Yamauchi!''
Namine's eyes narrowed as the man laughed. The team had been through enough thanks to Kamoshida. This was the last thing they needed...
Yamauchi smirked ''Such stunning achievements will look great when it's time to hand out bonuses...But I'm not gonna stop there either...I'll publish books, give motivational speeches...''
No matter she looked at it, he was barely better than Kamoshida. He didn't care at all about the students, it was all for his own sake.
''What about the troublemakers on the team? I've heard that Nakaoka kid is especially bad.'' The second teacher remarked.
''Nakaoka? Oh you mean the one who asked them to bring the pre-Kamoshida coach back? Don't worry I've already taken care of him...'' The man looked confused. ''...There's this other boy on the team, Takeishi, doesn't really excel in much of anything. Well, I said I would make him the new captain if he could get rid of that troublemaker Nakaoka. I might've mentioned something about how he was working with Kamoshida too...subtly of course.''
''Ohh...and? What ended up happening?''
''Apparently, Takeishi chased him away, the plan worked perfectly! And the best part is, not only are his parents loaded but his mother's the president of the PTA.''
''I see, he'd make a great pawn!''
''Perhaps but a nothing like him could never captain a successful championship winning team. He may have to have an unfortunate ''accident'' at practice one day.'' Yamauchi grinned. ''But until then he can show the others the value of obedience.''
''Hehe, you're incredible!''
''That effin' asshole!'' Ryuji snapped. ''If we don't do something quick, Yamauchi's gonna get rid of Takeishi too...God dammit!''
''Should we talk to Takeishi?'' Namine asked.
''Sounds like a plan...What I really wanna do is change the asshole's heart but that's just gonna screw the team's comeback...I don't wanna cause 'em more problems. So they're gonna have to decide on their own. Y'know track ain't a team sport-sprintin' wasn't, at least...'' Ryuji paused. ''...you've got teammates, sure...but you're really just looking out for your own time. That's why I never thought about askin' people for help or tryin' to solve our problems together. But...I can't ignore what they're going through now. I mean, even though we had our own goals n'shit...We were still runnin' together. They suffered with me, gritted their teeth with me...Honestly, I think it was only 'cause of them that I was able to run at all.'' He chuckled ruefully. ''So I can't just go and turn my back on 'em now, right?''
''...That's some real loyalty.''
Morgana certainly agreed ''Good on you, Ryuji. If only they could all bother with the same.''
''Heh, thanks. I know that ain't the coolest thing to say but it's how I feel.''
''It sounds cool to me. You're a good friend, even if they can't see it.''
Ryuji looked surprised before his grin returned ''...For real? Thanks a bunch, Namine!''
The next day...
''We're not really getting anywhere like this, huh?'' Ann grimaced.
''Actually...'' She and Morgana looked at Namine. ''...that has to do with what I wanted to talk about. Ann, do you still have that reporter's business card?''
Morgana blinked ''I see! That could really help, nice going, Namine.''
''Well, hearing what you and a few others people helped.'' The girl smiled. ''It's a long shot but if Ohya-san can tell help, we'll be good to go.''
After school, Namine went for another study session in the library. Exams were drawing close and she figured it was best to be prepared. She had lost most of the two years of her life after all so this seemed like a good thing to her.
''Excuse me, Namine-san?''
The girl raised an eye and looked up from her book, finding a girl she recalled was in her class ''Oh hey Miki-san. What is it?''
''I was just wondering, the word is you've been out and about with President Nijima. Is it true that she's trying to do something about the swindlers?''
Namine nodded ''It's pretty rough, we can't get help from the police since we don't have enough info. We're still trying to figure it out though.''
''I see...'' Miki tilted her head. ''...do you think the Phantom Thieves may be able to do something about them?''
''I don't see why not. We can just as easily post a request once we work it all out.''
''Sounds good, thanks!'' The girl left.
''Hey, Namine?'' Morgana poked his head out of the bag. ''I noticed something before...Ryuji and Lady Ann seem to be excited about our rising fame. I'm not really sure about Yusuke but you seem...apathetic about it.''
The girl exhaled ''I guess I am...don't get me wrong, I'm glad the word about us is spreading but I don't think I'll ever enjoy this fame. It reminds me way too much of what happened after I first woke up...you know I told you about that burglary. I think you can imagine how much of a big deal all people made back then.''
Morgana nodded ''Pretty easily.''
''Well, you know about the arrest. People turned their opinions just like that.'' She snapped her fingers. ''It's like I mentioned before...they just decided to wash their hands of me. So, I'm glad we're so successful but I really don't think I can ever like all this attention and fame. Besides, being a thief is never about the fame to me. I don't think we should let the public influence us. People were pretty fickle before, I don't see why they wouldn't be now.''
''I get it...'' In all fairness, the feline really didn't blame her at all. It made a lot of sense and he had a feeling that the whole deal was a lot harder on her than she made it sound. How terrible of all those people to treat her like that. Even her own family...''...we'll just have to try and avoid that kind of pitfall then.''
Namine wanted to believe that ''Let's hope we can, Mona...''
A while later, the two went to the karaoke to find their friends waiting...
''So now we have to wait for the reporter to reply?'' Yusuke wondered.
''Yup, she might be open to helping out since we got her that interview with you.'' Morgana stated.
''I just hope she does know something that can help us. We're not getting anywhere like this.''
''I know we don't have a time limit like with Kamoshida and Madarame but it still feels like a lot of pressure.'' Ryuji admitted.
''Probably because of that recording.'' Ann offered.
''So you think Nijima will use it against us if we fail?'' Yusuke inquired.
''I don't know, either way, we have to do this.''
''She wants to see our justice.'' Namine reminded, having wondered about that herself. ''We'll just have to work and prove it, we agreed not to give up what we do now, didn't we?''
''Yeah, let's not stress about the 'what-if's, we've got plenty of trouble to deal with anyway.'' Ryuji pointed out.
''Sounds good to me.'' Ann returned. ''...Actually, we're almost out of time, do you want to stay longer?''
''Hmm...I dunno, hey, you guys wanna try singing? We still have enough time to go at it a little.''
Morgana looked at the four, tilting his head ''...Can any of you actually sing?''
''Actually...'' This made Ann remember something. ''...Namine does. You used to do it before in your hometown, right?''
''...That was a long time ago.'' The girl's tone made it clear that she had no intention of even trying. ''There's no point...it's just a waste of effort.''
''But, I thought...''
''Ann.'' Yusuke shot the girl a stern look, silently telling her to drop it.
''Okay, got it,'' The blonde clapped her hands. ''So let's move on. Any other ideas about how we tackle this search?''
After leaving the karaoke, Namine went about a shift in her part-time job. She got a text from Yoshida, asking to meet for help with another speech...
''That you possess free will does not mean that you can always do as you please...'' Yoshida went on. ''...to make your decision based simply on loss and gain is to act like a heartless machine. The reason so few people care about their fellow man is because so few have the energy to do so. We politicians have fallen short of our goal to change society, we need your support more than ever!''
''That approach isn't going to work! You have to get the voters more excited!'' A man called. ''You're going to completely lose the minds and hearts of the people!''
''Again, what I'd like to...'' Yoshida then recognized the speaker.''...Councilman Matsushita!''
The man gave him an amused look ''It's been so long since we last spoke. I wanted to stop by and see how you were doing. You have a high schooler volunteering for you? My, times sure have changed.'' Matsuhita stated. ''Do you know about the Kuramoto Children?''
''I heard a little about it in school. That doesn't really matter, right?'' Namine cocked her head.
He laughed ''At least you're honest! I was a member of the Kuramoto Children as well. Yoshida and I joined the same year. I made an amazing career change, going from a pro wrestler to a Diet member...I was elected easily but I had no idea what I was doing. I realized I wasn't elected on my own merit when I failed to be re-elected a second time. That was true for the both of us.''
''You've made a great come back though, you're truly an inspiration.'' Yoshida stated.
''As are you, old friend. You're working harder than anyone on the campaign trail.'' Matsushita chuckled.
''Oh, there's no need for false praise to impress the young lady here.''
''It's not false praise though, at least I don't think it is. You're working really hard.''
Matsushita nodded to her ''See? She gets it. Yoshida's well informed about the inner workings of politics so I'm sure he'll be a great teacher. However, I suggest you only do as he says and not as he does if you want to become a diet member.''
''...And what might that mean?'' Yoshida inquired.
''I'm guessing she doesn't know...?'' The man saw Namine's confused look. ''I thought so. You really think you can win the elections by being completely honest and making good arguments? You've got to secure votes! Or else you'll be forever known as No-Good Tora!''
Yoshida's eyes narrowed ''Without honesty and good arguments, there can be no political justice!''
''Heh, it's been a while since I've heard one of your grandiose speeches.'' Matsushita looked at Namine. ''Hyakuya-san, was it? Tell me, what about Yoshida drew you in?''
''His speaking skills.'' was her answer. ''I happened to hear about him by chance but it got me curious so I looked deeper. He's really trying to succeed and he obviously gives it his all. That means a lot as far as I'm concerned.''
''Hyakuya-san...'' Yoshida's surprise was evident.
''Well...that's quite impressive. You might just have the potential to become a Diet member. You address matters quite directly for a young person. It seems you have been taught well.'' Matsushita stated.
''I intend to teach her all I know.'' Yoshida admitted.
''I see...interesting.'' Matsushita hummed. ''By the way, how are things between you and old man Kuramoto?''
''We're still not on speaking terms.''
Matsushita nodded ''There's something I'd like to get your opinion so I'll be in touch.''
''Very well.'' Yoshida returned.
''Oh, right. You may still distrust me because of what happened with the missing party funds...but I'm not the one who pointed the finger at you. That's all I'm going to say.'' He left.
The man's expression darkened ''Why did he have to mention that...?''
''Yoshida-san?'' What was that even about...?
''It's nothing. My apologies, that'll be all for today.'' He smiled. ''Thank you for today.''
Namine made to speak but then her phone buzzed, bringing her attention to a new message. It was from Ohya, she was asking to meet in a bar called Crossroads.
She made to tell the others about it. Morgana pointed out, rightfully, that moving in groups would be troublesome so the two of them went with Ryuji.
It wasn't long before they found a very possible snag...
''What're you doing? I told you to change, your uniform's going to stand out!'' Morgana chided
Ryuji didn't buy that for a second ''Meh, it's fine! I didn't wanna go home just to change.''
The cat held back a groan ''Ugh, I know this is going to be troublesome...''
''Quit worrying so much, let's just go. It's a huge catch, I'm pumped!'' Ryuji suddenly cringed, seeing a policeman look at them. ''...Is he looking this way?''
''See, I told you!'' Morgana pointed out.
''Come on, let's go.'' Namine led them along.
Ryuji breathed easier once they were a fair distance away. ''I really freaked out...''
''You.'' The three turned back, finding the new voice to belong to a blonde haired young woman with violet eyes. ''The one with blond hair, I sense impending woman troubles. Please be careful.''
''What? Me?''
''...Namine, you might want to consider watching your step around him.'' Morgana warned.
''Oi, that's...!'' Ryuji started, looking offended.
''What a cutie!'' He was approached by two men. ''And so muscular too! I give you an 85 out of a 100!''
''Gah, wh-who are you?!'' Ryuji gasped.
''Gwahaha! I'm the naughty troll of Shinjuku! I'm gonna eat you up!''
''H-hey, wait up...lemme go!''
Namine sweatdropped ''...Was that the bad fortune?''
''It could be.'' The woman blinked.
Morgana looked annoyed ''Serves him right. Come on, let's go.''
''I can't just leave him there.'' Namine went to grab Ryuji's arm ''Come on, Ryuji, we're getting late. Your mom's gonna be worried sick.''
''O-oh, yeah!'' He seized on the save with both hands. ''Sorry, I've gotta go! I can't have her getting troubled over me. She's my only family. No way I'm letting a thing happen to her.''
''Aww, that's so sweet!'' The first man cooed.
''Well, do go on, darling. We wouldn't want that.'' His friend added. ''We'll see you again!''
''Namine, you are awesome!'' Ryuji enthused.
The girl smirked ''Yup and don't you forget it.''
''...You're letting Arsene affect you, huh?'' He imagined it was something her Persona would say.
''Maybe!'' She said in a sing-song voice, hearing Arsene chuckle in the back on her mind. ''I wanted to see your reaction.''
He snickered ''Heh, fair enough. Seriously, you got some bragging rights for that act.''
''I swear, chivalry is dead.'' Morgana drawled.
Ryuji stiffened ''H-hey!''
''Mona, just leave it alone.'' Namine chided.
''Fine, but you're too nice to him.'' The cat returned. ''Anyway, we have to go to remember?''
''Yeah...hey, I think I see the place!'' Ryuji pointed to their left.
''This is it?'' Morgana blinked. ''I feel more danger here than in a Palace.''
Namine had to agree ''Well...we're here, we might as well go.''
''Come on, you worry warts, it'll be fine.'' Ryuji opened the door.
''Welcome!'' The woman at the counter raised an eye. ''How old are you two?''
''Ah...'' The boy faltered.
"We're actually supposed to meet a reporter..." Namine began.
She blinked as the reporter made her presence known "Oh, you're the ones Ichiko-chan was waiting for? I didn't know you were just kids."
''Their age doesn't matter, Lala-chan, we want to sort our deal." She chirped.
''Honestly...'' The woman sighed. ''...just don't let minors get drunk, all right?''
''We'll just go talk in the back. I'll treat you kids to some water!''
The reporter crossed her arms ''So this is about a group of criminals in Shibuya?''
''Yeah, we're trying to do something about the mess they're causing in school. A whole lot of students got dragged into this.'' Namine stated.
''That's why we need info to move forward and try to do somethin' about it.'' Ryuji added.
Ohya hummed thoughtfully ''Well, I don't mind telling you...you kids did help me get that interview after all. It's Kaneshiro Junya, that's likely the boss you're trying to look into. I don't know much more to be honest but I heard he's pretty dangerous. Does that work for your plan?'' She went on after the two responded positively.
''Good. I was actually hoping to talk about something, you kids are Shujin students, right? Then you must know about the Phantom Thieves. I've been tasked to write about them.'' She admitted. ''So I was wondering, do you know any of the students who suffered Kamoshida's abuse? I want to interview one. I could easily help you some more when need be but I want you to do this for me.''
''Hey, what about Mishima?'' Morgana suggested.
Ryuji nodded ''...We might know someone but how about we get back to you once we talk to them?''
''Works for me!'' She grinned. ''Lala-chan, get some juice for those kids!''
And break!
Well, I hope this was good. I wound up adding more than I thought I would at first but this seems like a good place to end this chapter. It's plenty long as it were.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank 5)
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 4)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 2)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 2)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 1)