Before coming to school, Namine had visited the Velvet Room to take care of a few things before their next visit to the Palace...
She stopped to check a few things in the Persona Compendium before deciding her next step. Since they had amassed a lot of money as planned from the Palace, she had found some help with her Personas. Also, she had easily been able to get the two Personas needed to fuse the Matador persona the twins had asked for earlier.
''So you've brought us another Persona we've asked for.'' Caroline remarked, sensing the spirit just like her twin had. ''You're better than I thought, Inmate. I was thinking you'd give up straight away.''
Justine had a small smile ''It is to be expected of the human our master saw potential in.''
''Well, this has been useful so far. No reason to quit now.'' Namine returned.
''You're dedicated, I'll give you that. Just keep it up, all right?'' Caroline received a nod.
''That is a fine attitude to have.'' Justine remarked.
Caroline smirked. ''I've gotta say, Justine, it's an accomplishment that she hasn't thrown in the towel yet.''
''How so?''
''That task list you wrote. It's not only keeping her on her toes but helping her improve too.''
For some reason Justine was confused. ''Hmm? I am not the one who wrote it.'' Her twin was surprised. ''I had always thought it was you.''
''What?! I don't know anything about that!''
Justine blinked ''...I suppose now that I consider it, that list is far too precise for you to have written it.''
''Quiet! You didn't need to say that!'' Caroline blinked. ''But wait? Who wrote it? It wasn't our Master, was it?''
''No, I have not heard him mention anything of the sort before...'' The girl's expression changed.
''Wait, so none of you made the thing?" The twins shared a glance at Namine's query, unable to answer.
Caroline let out a frustrated noise ''Why are you even still here?!''
''Last time I checked we were still talking. Besides, weren't you going to tell me what you want me to do next?"
''Uhh...''
''She has a point, Caroline.'' Justine stated.
''Don't agree with her!''
Shaking her head at her sister's temper ''At any rate, should we consult our master about this?''
''Hmm...I don't know...'' Caroline frowned . ''...we shouldn't waste his time on something this pointless.''
''...Indeed. It does not matter who thought of the list.''
''Don't think of prying, Inmate!'' Caroline warned.
''I wasn't going to...'' Namine's expression darkening a little as she continued. ''...I know what it's like to have things you want to leave hidden.''
''I will l take your word for that. We will continue to offer benefits to you if you can further fulfill your tasks.'' Justine took over. ''All that we ask is that you work hard in the duty you are assigned.''
''You're helping me get stronger, which effectively means helping our work in the Metaverse so yeah, I'll do it.'' Namine returned.
''Very well. As promised, I have granted you an ability that will prove greatly beneficial.'' Justine stated. ''You may place a Persona on lockdown and have it learn new skills.''
''While you're lazing away, your persona will grow on its own, talk about hospitality!'' Caroline added. ''Anyway, time for your next task! According to the list, it's-uh...what was it, Justine?''
''A Flauros with Tarukaja.'' Was the response. ''Speak to us again once you have obtained it. Ah, one more thing. The next privilege will be of greater power therefore we require two tasks before we can hand it to you.''
While the class waited for the next teacher to come, Ann turned around in her seat to face Namine ''So we've all agreed to leave the Calling Card to Makoto, right?''
''Yup,'' Morgana returned, from his place in Namine's desk space. ''Which I find really good, considering that leaving things to Ryuji is worrying for me...''
''Same here.'' Ann returned.
''You guys are harsh sometimes...'' Namine trailed off.
''Anyway, while we wait I want to make good use of our time...'' Ann went on. ''...can we go to the gym today? It'd be nice to get started on this.''
''Fine by me. I'll check with Ryuji...'' Namine held up her phone.
Ryuji had no problem with the idea either, thus they headed to the Protein Lovers' gym after school.
''It's pretty sweet, huh? Not too many people gettin' in your way. Anyways, uh...what're you tryin' to do here?'' Ryuji turned to face Ann, who had been looking around at the gym's machines.
''I want to slim down!'' Ann replied.
''Oh, yeah? You tried joggin'?''
''Aerobics alone aren't enough! I want to tone up too, so I need to start lifting weights.'' Ann's passion was evident in every word. ''Plus my shoulders are drooping. I wanna make my biceps leaner and I need to straighten my back out.'' She missed the bewildered looks her friends shared. ''Obviously I want to cut down on my waist size too...and firm up my butt and calves.''
''You might want to take it slowly. There's no way you can get started on all of that today.'' Namine remarked.
''Exactly. One of the off chance that's wrong, you're gonna be sore as hell if you try.'' Ryuji added. ''Anyways, motivation's good'n' all but you're seriously gonna be in a lot of pain if you do all shit.''
''Then you come up with a training regiment for me.''
''Wh-what?!'' His eyes widened.
''If you do that, I'll go on a date with you as a reward.'' Ann smiled, trying for a seductive tone.
''Eff that.'' Ryuji retorted. ''Quit thinkin' you're some sexy character in an anime. It's sad watchin' you like this.''
''What?!''
''Ryuji!'' Namine gave him a look.
''But it's true! First off, one of them sexy characters'd never come to the gym in their PE uniform.''
''How am I supposed to know that?! I've never even been to a gym before!'' The girl was distracted by her ringing phone. ''Oh, it's my agency. Hi! Oh, yes. Definitely, Even a smaller article would be great!'' Her eyes widened. ''Huh...? It fell through? Yeah...Uh, I guess that's Okay...Mmhm...'' She hung up. ''...I was supposed to be in two magazines the month after net but apparently one cancelled on me. It was a black and white shoot, so they said I'd wouldn't stand out. It sounded like fun though. It was about the everyday life of models.''
''Guess you just gotta find somewhere else you do stand out then.'' Ryuji stated.
''Huh...there's gotta be somewhere my vibrant charm will shine, right?''
''You can find it.'' Namine nodded.
''Yeah!'' She smiled.
''Hey, speakin of magazines, there was a real pretty girl in that one you said you were starrin' in.'' Ryuji recalled. ''She's got this innocent vibe but she's sexy too. Now that's what real charm looks like to me.''
''Were there photos of me too?'' Ann inquired, he nodded and she continued. ''Did that girl have long brown hair?''
He perked up ''Yup, that's the one! You know her, you gotta introduce me!''
Namine had a bad feeling about what was going to happen ''Ah, Ryuji? That's...''
''...You dick!'' Ann cut in. ''Of all the girls you could've been talking about, it just had to be Mika! Ughh...I'm so pissed! Come in we better get started!.''
''Uh, all right...'' Ryuji uttered, seeing her storm off. ''...what's with her?''
''The girl you mentioned is the model we told you about, remember? The one who kept giving her a hard time?'' Namine returned.
''Ah...'' No matter how he teased her, he did want Ann to do well. The other girl was pretty but she sure had a nasty personality ''...crap, that explains it...let's just get started then."
After quite a work out, the three were panting hard. ''My body hurts...'' Ann smiled. ''...but for some reason...I feel...satisfied...''
''That's what workin' hard feels like. Not bad, huh?'' Ryuji grinned.
''Yeah, that was actually...pretty fun.'' She admitted. ''I think it was because the two of you were here with me. I had to prove I was working extra hard.''
''It's simple stuff like that that'll help you keep pushin'.''
Ann gave him an odd look ''...Did you really think that's cool?''
He deflated at Ann's words ''Hey, come on!''
Namine couldn't help giggling ''Easy on him. At least you know, having company makes it all the more engaging.''
''True...'' Both were distracted when his phone rang.
''...Crap, for real?'' Ryuji sighed as he hung up.''Mom forgot to buy stuff for dinner, so I guess I gotta head home now. See ya, girls.''
''Bye!'' The two waved.
''Ryuji just can't say no when his mom needs help, huh?'' Ann mused. ''...I'm actually a little jealous of their relationship. I mean even growing up, my parents were super busy. They always told me I was strong, that I'd be fine on my own. I was free but I was lonely.'' She looked away for a minute.
Namine blinked ''Ann?''
''Ah, sorry...I just had a thought, here I am talking about parents and you...'' The blonde trailed off, recalling her friend's terrible situation on that front. At least she got to talk to her parents every once in a while but Namine's parents seemed to have just stopped caring about her.
''...It's okay.'' Truth be told, she'd rather not think about it but that couldn't be helped sometimes. ''It is what it is. after all. Anyway, go on, what were you saying?''
Ann swore that if she ever ran into their leader's parents, she would ream them for treating her so horribly. How could they be like this?
Shaking the thought, the model continued ''Right, right...I'd make friends but we moved a lot, and everytime I had to start all over again. I actually got used to the loneliness. But that all changed once I met Shiho...the world seemed so hopeful...I need to show her that I'm working hard and that she doesn't need to worry so much about me.''
''Maybe she does know already...'' Namine trailed off.
''You think? I hope so.'' Ann admitted. ''I want her to see how much I've learned.''
A little while later, Namine went to the underground mall, having heard of an opening in the flower shop. After talking to the owner, she readily had Namine do a little trial run to show her how she did things. With how well she handled the work, Namine was hired.
It was shortly after she finished that she received a text from Yoshida, telling her about another speech. This prompted the girl to go on and meet him...
''The conviction of a government is often tested during times of turmoil. However, the current administration refuses to discuss future plans. Can we really accept such an utter lack of transparency?!''
''I've been hearing about this type of criticism about the government a lot lately.'' A woman said.
''That's because Diet member Shido has been gaining popularity by saying the same thing.'' Another observer informed.
This wasn't the first time they heard talk about the Diet members, especially Shido. He seemed quite well liked but Namine couldn't help thinking back to what happened in the Wilton hotel. Was he really as good as he seemed?
She hadn't realized how she spaced out until another man spoke ''So he's just echoing another politician's criticisms of the governement?''
''Apparently. Tch, whatever.'' The second returned.
''So first you stole party funds and now you're stealing ideas, No-Good Tora? Stop talking big, you ex-convict!'' A man snapped.
''Urgh...'' Yoshida winced, the crowd was already leaving ''...it seems I've drawn the ire of the audience once again. So he's claiming that those who made mistakes in the past shouldn't get a second chance? What can I say to that...?''
But then...
''Stop interrupting him!'' Namine exclaimed. ''He's actually making a point, just listen!''
''What was that? You got something to say to me, kid?!'' The man who had been telling Yoshida off demanded.
She met his glare head on ''Yeah, lay off already!''
He looked taken aback by her tone ''W-what's with this kid?''
But Namine wasn't finished ''Would you all please just let up on him for once? Everybody makes mistakes, it's what we do after that which really matters. So what if he was 'No-Good Tora'? That's in the past and that's where it should stay!''
''Why you little brat...'' The man faltered when he saw others considering her words.
To say Yoshida was moved would be undermining how he felt now. She had such faith in him...well, he wouldn't disappoint now.
''...Yes, I am 'No Good Tora' and I have made mistakes. Yes, I am unpopular and powerless. But that has nothing to do with my arguments! These are things I learned from all my hardships. You can ridicule me all you want but I will continue to oppose all what is wrong with the world!''
''Today's speech ended up being filled with a lot of passion. Quite unexpectedly, I might add.'' Yoshida remarked, smiling. ''The highlight though was your interference, Hyakuya-chan.''
''Ahh...'' Namine gave a sheepish laugh. ''...I couldn't help myself.''
Yoshida chuckled ''I envy you. Conveying your thoughts with such conviction. I wish I had done that in the past.''
They were then approached by the man who was yelling at Yoshida before.
''You two are amazing...I've been wrong this whole time. Even though someone has failed in the past, it doesn't meant they can't try again. Th-that's all I wanted to say.''
''Please wait!'' Yoshida exclaimed. ''Thank you...that is all I wanted to say.''
''...You're a strange one, just like this girl.'' He left.
''I learned something from your dauntless spirit today, you truly came through. I have a bad habit of getting flustered whenever someone calls me 'No-Good Tora.' But you see me as someone of value, so I refuse to cower to criticism in front of you.'' Yoshida stated. ''Today you taught me that I must have more confidence in my arguments.''
''Nice to see things are looking up now. Besides I more or less used some of what you taught me.'' Namine smiled.
Yoshida chuckled. ''My way of thinking changes when I'm with you. Perhaps it's the influence of your youthful spirit.'' He noticed the time on his watch. ''Ah, my apologies, it seems the time ran by. Good work today, I'll see you again soon.''
''Right.''
The next day after school, Namine went with Ryuji per the boy's request to the track team's old training spot. She immediately understood why upon seeing Nakaoka and Takeishi there, clearly waiting for him.
''So what is this about, Sakamoto?'' Takeishi demanded irritably. One glance at Nakaoka told them why that was so. ''I'm okay with you wanting to talk but why is he here?''
''That's 'cuz this has to do with both of you.'' Ryuji took out his phone. ''You need to hear this...''
Needless to say, the two were left stunned when the recording finished. Nakaoka spoke once it was done ''Is this for real?''
''It's Yamauchi's voice, you know? An on top of that, shit's gone down just like he said.'' Ryuji replied.
Takeishi looked down ''...Yamauchi's right, I don't have talent...I'm not like you guys. I ran so damn hard but you two were always so far ahead...How's a guy like me supposed to succeed? How am I supposed to be proud of myself?!''
''Proud?'' Ryuji wondered.
''My dad always talks about how proud he is of his son...'' The boy started. ''...he told everyone I'd get a track scholarship like he did. That I'd follow in his footsteps as a second generation Taisei grad...That's why I listened to Yamauchi. He said if I was the captain, he'd write me a great letter of recommendation...''
Namine thought the situation was looking a bit familiar, remembering what Makoto told them about Kobayakawa and his veiled threat on her. Her eyes narrowed as anger flared within her, both Takeishi and Makoto wanted to ensure their futures but it lead to them being used. Just another reminder of how low adults could go...
''Are you satisified with that?'' The boy looked at her. ''Later on, if you look back at these times, can you say you did what was for the best? Ryuji told me he talked to your old team captain, even he knows Yamauchi's rotten. It's kind of hard to think you don't.'' Takeishi proved her suspicion true when he looked away. ''Can you be happy knowing you played along with this guy? Is this something you're proud of?''
''T-that's...''
''You know she's on to something.'' Ryuji stated, Takeishi's silence reinforcing that. ''To top it off, you trusted what he was saying about cause of stupid crap like that?''
''Sh-shut up!'' Takeishi cried. ''What does a thug like you know?! You couldn't know how I feel...no body does!''
''Like hell I don't!'' Where did he get off assuming that? He should know better! ''How long were we runnin' together, huh?! I went through all sorts of shit with you!''
''Sakamoto...'' The boy looked surprised.
''Who're you livin' your life for? Your parents? Teachers? Society?'' Ryuji went on. ''Maybe you should stop trying to live for them and just try living for yourself. You think you gotta betray people to be proud?'' The boy stuttered. ''If that's seriously what you think, you're wrong!'' He looked at Nakaoka. ''You knew something was up with Yamauchi too, right? I mean the bastard never been interested in track before...But you kept quiet. You knew he was walking all over you and you just let him do it.''
''...Yeah.'' The boy admitted. ''I was afraid...without Yamauchi, we still wouldn't have a team, or a place to belong.''
''You missed runnin' that bad?'' Ryuji's expression softened. ''Y' know...it ain't so scary not havin' a place where you belong. You can be free that way. If anything, I'm more scared of bein' a crappy person. I mean, I used to be like you guys...afraid, lyin' to myself...before I met Namine.'' The girl looked at him in surprise, seeing him nod back. ''I don't wanna insult you guys or nothin', but I know you're prolly pissed about all this...So, if you wanna hit me or something, go right ahead, I'm ready.''
The boys shared a look, clearly not expecting this. Neither was Namine. Why would he even suggest it?
"...I hope you're not actually considering this." She found herself saying. "Mistakes were made but it's how you go from there that matters. I don't care if it was Ryuji's idea, what's hitting him going to accomplish? Aren't you past blaming him for the school's failure already?"
"Come on, it's okay..."
"Shut up, Sakamoto, she's right." Takeishi cut in. "Looks like you still have problems thinking before you run that mouth."
"Oh, so it really was a usual thing. I should've known..." Namine gave Ryuji a dry look that had the two boys snickering.
"Hey!"
"Are they wrong though?" Nakaoka shot back. "Hitting you isn't going to do anything. I don't know about you, but the less we act like Kamoshida the better. Isn't that the way he rolled?"
"Yeah, you didn't have to go through all the trouble to help, especially after how we treated you. But you did anyway, that jackass would've screwed us over in the heartbeat when it suited him." His teammate shook his head. ''Anyway...I'm sorry, Nakaoka .''
''I'm sorry too, so you wanna bring the team back?''
''Hell yeah, and we'll do it right for sure!''
Unexpected turnout aside, it looked like Ryuji's efforts had paid off and he had gotten through to them. Namine began to smile at the thought as she noticed the two boys taking their leave ''Good luck!''
Nakaoka gave a slight wave in acknowledgement while Takeishi nodded before they kept walking, soon disappearing out of view.
Ryuji exhaled ''...They're prolly feelin' way better now. I think they're gonna be just fine together...Thanks, Namine.''
''Well, it's not like I did much.''
''Nah, you're underestimating yourself, you were a big help. You were pushin' me to be cool that whole time. It's kinda like I was doin' a sprint...and you were runnin' next to me.'' Ryuji stated.
Namine returned his smile ''We've got a team of our own here, that's just what we do.''
''Damn straight!'' The two began taking their leave. ''So anyway, I told Makoto I'd meet up with her once we finished here. It sounded like she figured something out for the calling card.''
''Really? We'll be waiting for news then.''
Ryuji nodded ''Thanks again. Later!''
On the way back, Namine was contacted by Ohya. Since they had explained everything to Mishima a few days ago, the boy agreed to give the journalist her interview. There hadn't been much news in her text but she had mentioned something about a deal she wanted to strike.
''...You know, this might be good for the Phantom Thieves.'' Morgana mused. ''Having someone well-connected to the media has already proven useful, let's see what she wants.''
Namine nodded back and headed to another train...
Lala paused in surprise ''Oh, it's you...what, did Ichiko-chan contact you again?''
''Yeah, she said she wants to discuss something...'' Namine looked around. ''...is she here?''
''In the back.'' Lala gestured to the furthest seats. ''No wonder it looked like she was waiting for something...just to make sure you remember, I don't allow underage drinking.''
''I remember.'' The girl assured. ''For now, I just want to see what this is all about.''
''Fair enough. Go on then.''
Ohya was indeed in the indicated area. She had been looking enjoying a drink when she spotted Namine ''You came, great!'' The girl sat opposite her and she continued. ''So that kid you sent over had plenty of info, it was a big help. If what I picked up from the boy was true, you seem to have plenty of info about the Phantom Thieves. That got me thinking, care to share this info with me? I could really use it for buisness.''
''So that's what you had in mind.'' Lala walked over. ''You're going to use her for your articles?''
''It's not as bad as you make it out to be, Lala-chan. Kids these days know things we adult can't access. Besides, what's most important is that I have a reliable source third party source for my stories. This is a shot for my own golden goose!''
''Shouldn't you be getting her response first?''
''Right, right...'' The journalist looked at Namine. ''...well, kid?''
The burgundy haired girl thought it over. This didn't seem like a bad idea, it would help make sure that people would hear the truth about them. As much as she didn't care about their fame, this could be very useful for Mementos, especially if their theory about their progress having to do with the public's perception of them was accurate. And like Morgana said, having someone with Ohya's connections could help the team.
''So...basically, I give you the details I know and you use that for articles?''
Ohya nodded at the summary, hearing the girl go on ''All right, I'll do it.''
''Just like that?'' Lala wondered.
''Yup, why not?'' Namine returned. ''It'd be nice to see the truth about the Phantom Thieves spread out.''
Ohya tilted her head a little ''I've been wondering...you really support them, huh? I've heard of people who do, but there are others who are torn and some who just don't like 'em.''
''Well yeah, things are turning up after what they've done. You two have heard the news about Kamoshida, right? And you do realize he's been hurting people for over a year and the school wouldn't help at all? My friends suffered a lot because of him.''
''Ah.'' Lala hummed in understanding.
Ohya nodded a little ''Makes sense. I bet the kids in your school are real glad to be shot of the guy, huh?''
''Definitely.'' Namine replied. ''There's no reason not to root for them.''
''That's fair. And I suppose your friends share that opinion?'' Lala inquired, seeing the girl nod then.
''So that's what this is about. You want to find them some positive PR?'' Ohya wondered
Namine nodded ''Honestly, it never crossed my mind until we met you but since the chance is there, I'm taking it.''
She smirked ''All righty, sounds good! You just hand me the info and I'll write up articles about the Phantom Thieves you love-oh-so much!''
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 Devil Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
It turned out that Ryuji had been right. While Namine was meeting with Ohya, he and Makoto had cooperated to spread the Calling Cards she had prepared all over Shibuya. Her reasoning was that since Kaneshiro's network of operations was so wide-spread, he was bound to see it.
Agreeing that they should not trust his word with the deal, the Phantom Thieves were all for the option to deal with the loan shark sooner than later and avoid any risk.
As luck would have it, Makoto's scheme quickly took effect. Many had learned of the calling card soon enough, including Kaneshiro's goons. One of whom was quick to take the card to the man when he saw it the next morning...
''Excuse me, sir but...'' He faltered. ''...uh I found this on the car. There's something written on it...''
''Hm? Read it.'' Kaneshiro ordered.
''...Sir Kaneshiro Junya, the money devouring sinner of gluttony...You indulge in scamming others with horrendous methods that target minors exclusively. We have all decided to make your confess your crimes with your own mouth. We will take your distorted desires without fail. From the Phantom Thieves...'' The man paused. ''...isn't that bad...?''
''What of it?'' Kaneshiro returned.
''I-if something happened to you...! I mean if the higher ups found out about this...''
He remained unfazed ''Don't waste your time worrying about this useless shit. Just keep quiet for now.''
''B-but it's...posted all around the city...People're talking about it online too...''
''Grr...All of you bring me your earnings! If you don't surpass your quota...I'll kill you.''
''Y-yes sir...'' He left.
Like with Madarame and Kamoshida, something in the air shifted and Shadow Kaneshiro appeared.
''Phantom Thieves...?'' He sneered. ''Don't make me laugh.''
The team had stopped in Shibuya to ensure that the Calling Card was effective, and indeed it was. The street they passed was buzzing with activity and chatter as people tried to figure out what was going on.
Once they found an empty alley, they entered the Metaverse and returned to Kaneshiro's Palace. They hurried to the second floor where they Kaneshiro's Shadow before, only to find a surprise in store...
Their target was waiting for them in front of a safe, which had definitely not been there last time.
''I knew you were coming...'' The shadow sneered. ''...looks like you pathetic brats have quite the luck to make it this far.''
Skull scoffed ''Keep telling yourself that, bastard! We're going to change your heart for all the people you've hurt.''
''Hmph. Those on top get what they want and those on the bottom suffer.'' Shadow Kaneshiro stated. ''This is just how the world works. Quit wasting my time and go earn me some money.''
''That's not happening.'' Fox glared back.
''Yeah, you're crazy if you think we're going to listen to any of that!'' Panther added.
''It's been rough on me too, you know. I suffered because of people in power, now it's my turn to enjoy that power.''
''You think that justifies what you're doing? Two wrongs don't make a right.'' Joker stated.
''Yeah, you're nothing but a sad coward.'' Queen crossed her arms.
''Nothing you say will change our goal, we're going to stop you here!'' Mona declared.
Shadow Kaneshiro laughed ''...Please, you're all just pathetic. The means don't matter one bit, only the ends do. I'm going to show you your place...There's not a snowball's chance in hell that a bright future lies ahead for you!''
He was surrounded in a sphere of dark energy a moment later. When it faded, it revealed him to be larger, with bug like characteristics like compound eyes and even insect wings.
''Eat this!'' He sent out a volley of Maeiga at the party, leaving them to defend.
Being the least affected due to her own Persona's element, Joker shook the attack off quickly and willed her mask to shift to summon a particular spirit. ''Orthrus, Matarukaja!''
The dog like Persona howled, surrounding them all in a wave of energy that empowered them. Fox and Mona attacked then, slashing at the enemy with their blades.
Skull summoned his Persona ''Zionga!''
Captain Kidd flew up, summoning a powerful bolt of lightning that left the enemy to cry out.
''Y-yeh goddamn punks...!'' He took out a small sphere and threw it at Fox and Mona, creating a cloud of gas. While it seemed harmless, the effect quickly took as the two fell to their knees.
''W-what is this?'' Fox grimaced. ''I-I can't...''
''Like my Fear Gas?'' Shadow Kaneshiro attacked them both before chuckling. ''That's a good look for you.''
Queen's eyes narrowed ''...You won't be laughing for long. Johanna!'' She rode on her Persona. ''Energy Shower!'' The two were bathed in a glittering blue light, leaving them feeling better as the overwhelming sense of fear disappeared.
''Thanks, Queen!'' Mona smiled and the girl nodded back.
Shadow Kaneshiro scowled ''Fine then, you...'' He conjured a blast of magic to strike, only to be forced to defend as Panther began firing a round of bullets at him. This gave Queen ample time to blast him with a Freila spell, leaving him reeling.
Joker and Skull attacked together, dodging just in time as the enemy countered. Mona had Zorro blast Shadow Kaneshiro with a Garula. Joker summoned Arsene and had him blast the Shadow with curse magic, only for the shadow loan shark to fall down with a loud cry of pain. The group of six launched an All Out Attack, taking the opportunity at once.
''Gyaaah!'' Shadow Kaneshiro crashed down. ''T-the hell...?'' He began to stand. ''Y-you punks are tougher than you look...!''
He proceeded to use Maeiga again, but this quickly turned out to be a distraction as he ran to the safe and pressed a button on the side. Suddenly it opened, revealing a huge metal sphere which rolled out. Its parts shifted a little, forming a face and little legs, making look like a pig.
''Okay, this Palace is really forming a stupid theme...he's actually got a giant pig?!'' Mona exclaimed, the others could only stare, similarly baffled.
''This ain't no pig!'' Shadow Kaneshiro snapped. ''It's my souped up guard robot, Piggytron! Goin' against me's a real bad crime, yeh know? It's time for yeh all to go to hell!''
At those words, the robot fired a barrage of missiles, leaving the party to do their best to get out of the way. The scale was so wide-spread though that the attempts failed, leaving them to fall down. Piggytron unleashed a wave of energy next and caused more damage. Skull and Queen ran to attack Kaneshiro before he could attack again but the shadow jumped to a hole in Piggytron to hide and the hole closed up.
''Persona!'' Queen stepped up. ''Freila.''
''Phoenix, Freila!'' Joker summoned a bird-like persona that flew up behind Johanna and the two nuclear spells combined to form a more powerful one the almost blew the robot back.
''Captain Kidd, Bad Beat!'' Skull ordered. The rest attacked with their Persona's respective elemental magic from different sides.
''Yo-yo-yo, that doesn't hurt a bit, yo!'' Suddenly, Piggytron spun around, releasing a wave of gas similar to what Shadow Kaneshiro used earlier. Picking up on this, they tried to get away but it was too close. Panther, Joker and Mona, who were the closest to where the wave started were affected first and he went on to have the robot unleash an energy wave.
As Queen made to help them, Shadow Kaneshiro had Piggytron fire a laser at her. ''I'll finish you all off-yo!''
''I am thou.'' Fox summoned Goemon. ''Rising Slash!''
''Time for a Rampage, Captain Kidd!'' Skull added.
The two strikes hit Piggytron on the same side, tilting it somewhat. Shadow Kaneshiro scoffed ''It's no good, yo! Yer not gonna make any difference, yo!''
''That's what you think!'' They attacked in tandem with their Personas again.
A moment later, Orthrus and Carmen appeared, combining their flames to strike Piggytron together.
''What the-?!'' Shadow Kaneshiro as the group got together, seeing Queen observing the scene with a growing smirk. ''You little-! Fine, I'll deal with y'all the same, yo! Taste my Missile Party!''
With that, Piggytron fired another barrage of missiles towards the party. Skull had an idea ''Let's try this, blast away, Captain!''
Captain Kidd aimed his cannon, firing a lightning blast that destroyed a number of the missiles a moment later.
''Nice, Skull! Carmen, Agilao!'' Panther went next.
''You're wastin' my time, yo! I'll wrap this up!'' The enemy's declaration was followed by a strange sight. Piggytron suddenly leaned on a side and its hatch opened, before Shadow Kaneshiro came out.
''Anyone who defies me yo, gets the old heave-ho, yo! Imma ter yeh all to shreds, Go Piggytron! Super VIP Fooorm!'' Piggytron began to spin with increasing speed.
''Goemon, Mabufu!'' Fox ordered, leaving the enemy to cry out as the blast of ice hit his side. Mona followed up by having Zorro cast wind magic to knock the shadow down but Shadow Kaneshiro just barely managed to grab on to the hatch in time. He proceeds to have Piggytron roll towards them fast, forcing them to get out of the way but it immediately turned back to keep attacking.
Skull cursed as they were forced to avoid Piggytron again, only for it to resume the spinning ''Is he just gonna keep this up?!''
Joker had an idea ''...We can do something about that. Fox, I need your help...'' She quickly explained her plan, leaving them intrigued.
''Ah, I see...very well then.''
The two proceeded to summon Nue and Goemon before the first Persona wrecked a part of the floor and made it so that area would be raised up. Goemon proceeded to cover it with a thick sheet of ice, creating a make-shift ramp. And just in time, as Piggytron was coming back.
Joker's eyes narrowed and she looked at Queen, who was waiting on Johanna. ''Let's begin.''
''Right!'' She sped off towards the robot's path.
Shadow Kaneshiro watched her for a moment. ''Dunno what yer doing but it ain't makin' no difference, yo! Yer all goin' down, yo!''
''Perfect...'' Queen gave a small smile, his reaction was just as they expected.
She stopped just before the ramp, speeding off the second Piggytron came close. As they hoped, the machine rolled off the ramp and into the air, leaving Shadow Kaneshiro to cry out in surprise as the robot crashed down and he fell a moment later. The party wasted no time in attacking him, some directly while others used skills from their Personas, causing a lot of damage.
''D-dammit! I ain't losin' yo!'' He scrambled away back to Piggytron, much to general dismay.
''We've got to get him out of this thing!'' Panther scowled.
''How though? I don't think we can try Joker's idea again...'' Mona trailed off.
''...I think I know.'' Queen looked at the vault then. ''We can use the very Palace against him. He's obsessed with money, right? Let's use that to lure him out.''
''Good idea.'' Mona grinned.
''Yeah, let's go for it!'' Panther agreed.
Just as Shadow Kaneshiro was about attack, he saw Skull and Queen summon their Personas but instead of attacking him they blasted holes in the vault. This caused the money he had stored to begin flowing out, making him yelp ''Stop!''
''Oh, we're just getting started!'' Panther stated. ''Carmen, burn it all up!''
The Persona smirked 'As you wish.'
He cried out in dismay, which increased as Mona had Zorro tear up more money with blades of wind magic. The feline thief smirked as Shadow Kaneshiro came running out, declaring that he won't let them do what they wanted with his money.
''There we go...''
He made to blast them with Maeiha only to be forced to stop when Fox began to shoot at him. Queen used a Flash Bomb next while Skull had Captain Kidd try another Bad Beat, leaving the Shadow reeling. Joker called on Nue, having it attack with its own curse magic, which was very effective as it knocked Shadow Kaneshiro down.
''Let's go!'' The group of six unleashed a second All Out Attack, piling up to the rising damage. Queen landed a final punch that sent the enemy crashing to the ground and ending the fight.
''We did it!'' Panther beamed.
''Hell yeah, was there any doubt?!'' Skull grinned while the rest exchanged looks and smiled.
It didn't take them long to spot Shadow Kaneshiro, now having reverted to his old form, as he was crawling towards some money near him.
''Hold it right there!'' Queen glared down at him as he recoiled.
''I won't let it anyone have it...'' He uttered. ''...this is my money...''
''That's some nerve you've got!'' Mona frowned.
''Yeah, You stole it all from innocent people!'' Queen reminded.
''Fine, I'll call off the debt...''
''Fine?'' Skull gave him a pointed glare. ''You're still soundin' pretty condescendin'.''
''You're right...'' Shadow Kaneshiro sighed miserably. ''...I'm a poor, ugly...idiot...How am I supposed to live a normal like this...? It's all because of our society! Weak people can't lead a happy life, no matter what they do! I'm a victim too, you know?! Yeah, none of this is my fault!''
''The more you talk, the more pathetic you sound.'' Fox stated.
''I just wanted a place where I could belong! You get that, don't you?!''
''It's just an empty excuse. You've been hurting people for so long.'' Joker stated.
''Yeah, all you did was surround yourself with people you could use, solely for some easy money! It's all about your greed!'' Panther shot back
''And you think you're the only one's who's gotta deal with bein' labeled...?'' Skull added. ''Me...and these guys...we're all fightin' against that!''
''But don't worry, you'll finally have a place to belong. Somewhere you can make amends for the rest of your life.'' Queen remarked.
''We're gonna do something about that distorted heart of yours...Free of charge.'' Skull stated.
''...Seriously? You guys don't have any tact. Especially with all that power...These Palaces could net you loads of cash! You could do whatever you wanted to people's hearts!'' Shadow Kaneshiro waved his hands.
''That's not what we're about at all.'' Joker retorted.
Fox scowled ''We're not like you!''
The Shadow chuckled ''Where do you find meaning in that naive sense of justice...? You know, there's someone out there taking full advantage of what Palaces have to offer...''
''We know about that. He's the same one you hired to cause that accident.'' Fox cut in.
Queen's anger as she recalled what she tried to dig up after the accident ''You're despicable. Acting so high and mighty...that officer was just trying to do what was right for his family.''
''You're not getting away with this. Who is that criminal?'' Joker demanded.
''I don't know and I wouldn't want to. I just made use of his services. They're powerful enough to use other people's Palaces to accomplish whatever they damn well please. They don't care about consequences, psychotic breakdowns, mental shutdowns...anything goes.''
''Bastards, the both of you...'' Skull suppressed a growl. ''...how'd you contact him if you don't even know who it is.''
''Don't even bother, you're nothing compared to him...Better be careful...A chance encounter with him could prove fatal...'' Shadow Kaneshiro faded with one last dark chuckle.
''Damn...'' Skull grunted.
Mona wasn't any less displeased with the lack of answers but he knew they had other things to deal with. ''There's no helping it, come on, we need to get the treasure and leave.''
''Where is it?'' Panther saw him turn in its direction. ''Oh...''
Mona mewled at the sight of all the gold ''T-treasure...''
Most of the group knew what that look meant at once.
''Here we go again...'' Panther sighed.
''Again? You're saying this is normal?!'' Queen looked incredulous.
''This is sooooo cooooool! Woooooweee, being a human is greattttttt! It's...it's...it's shiny shiny golddd!'' Mona grabbed some gold gleefully.
'Who knew it was possible? He's actually getting worse.' Captain Kidd remarked, Skull nodded to this while Joker sighed.
''But why exactly...?'' Fox started. Mona confused them more when he jumped up and landed on Panther's face, leaving her to try to make him get off.
''Okay, Mona, come on...'' Joker patted his back, figuring this approach wouldn't hurt.
Just then, a sort of faint light emanated from her hand. Fox was the first to pick up on this but the light faded before he could bring it to the others' attention, much to his confusion. 'What in the world...?'
After a few moments, the cat relaxed as she picked him up. ''That feels nice!''
''How did you do that?'' Skull asked, after all none of them had ever been able to snap Mona out of this crazed state before.
''No idea...'' Their leader admitted, looking bewildered. ''...anyway, Mona, you can look at the treasure all you want later. We need to move now.''
''Right, Joker. Sorry!'' He transformed and they picked up the treasure before getting in the bus...
Fortunately, they were able to leave the Palace just as it began to fall apart, giving them good time to leave without too much trouble.
''We made it...'' Ann sighed.
Makoto looked out at the street from the alley ''Looks like we were right to choose this place, no one's seen a thing.''
''That's good but perhaps we should be go soon, let's not risk bringing any attention to ourselves. We do need a place to open the treasure as well.'' Yusuke pointed out, lifting the golden suitcase in his hand.
''Hey, we could try Leblanc!'' Morgana suggested. ''The chief said he was going to be out for a while by the time we left, it should be easy.''
Namine nodded ''Good thinking, Morgana. Let's go then.''
Well, let's stop here...
I hope the chapter was good. The boss fight was kind of a pain to work, my sympathies to the people who had to deal with it all in the game. Anyway, I hope you like what I'm doing here. Next comes more of the aftermath of the Palace and some day to day stuff, as you might have guessed. Once I get that sorted, I'll be launching one of my original twists to the plot before I wrap it up and start the next one.
That last bit with Joker and that light in the Palace is an idea I had back when I first started working on this story and read up on the Persona 5 world. Its meaning is going to become clear in the next arc, I just want to set up for it here.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank 7)
Morgana (Magician Rank 3)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 6)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 3)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 3)
Igor (Aeon Rank 2)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 4)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 4
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 3)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 4)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 2)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 2)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 3)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 1)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 1)