Vangran: I know, right? That's the exact kind of impression I got. When I started this, I tried fitting Namine's parents in but not one way seemed right. They're going to be mentioned more later as I explain more about the situation. For the record though, Namine's official guardians are effectively Yuri and Itsuki. They've just delegated things to Sojiro for reasons mentioned earlier.
As they were leaving school, Namine happened to find Makoto in a seemingly pensive mood near the gate.
''Hey, what's up?''
''I was thinking...do you remember that student we saw in the red light district?'' Makoto wondered.
Namine thought back ''...Yeah, the one walking into the parlor or whatever that place was?''
''Right. Would you come with me? I'd like to talk to her now.'' The brunette smiled at her nod. ''Thank you, it'll be nice to have you there.''
''Takao Eiko-san, you've been spending time in the red light district, haven't you?'' Makoto inquired. ''We saw you there before. Based on where you were heading, we assume you're working at a store called the After School Salon. How is it, working there?''
''Whaddya mean? It's just a normal cafe, they make me wear a costume and stuff, but that's it. Oh and I don't hafta do anything weird, if you know what I mean. It's all totally legal.''
Makoto's brow furrowed ''Hm, so you're sure nothing strange's going on?''
''Yup, yup the worst I get is some weird old guys gawking at me.'' Eiko shrugged.
''I see...beyond that though, why are you working there?...How's your financial situation?''
Eiko seemed confused ''Um, fine? I mean, I can just ask my parents for cash whenever I want.''
''O-oh, I see...'' Makoto trailed off.
''But they'd totally bug me about what I'm buying it for then, that's why I'm working at the salon.'' She went on. ''I get some good spending money, plus the guys who come in like mega pamper me.''
The brunette gave her an odd look ''Mega...pamper?''
''It's nice having people treat you like you're special, y'know?'' The girl nodded to herself ''I'm sure a super honor student like you get it all the time though. Anyways...are you gonna tell on me? You even brought a witness today...''
''We're both here because we were worried. You know, with the area being what it is...and all the trouble because of Kaneshiro. We only heard they were students around there. It just seems like asking for trouble, the police might have gotten him but a lot of his men fled.'' Namine returned.
''Ohhh...yeah I heard something about that on TV. Well, there's nothing to worry about.'' Eiko got a curious look. ''Just to check, you two aren't...you know, like that, right?''
''No!'' Makoto exclaimed, while Namine looked too bewildered to respond. ''Where would you even get that idea? We're friends! Namine was helping me with a favor.''
''Really? Well, for the rumored criminal, you're pretty nice then...though I guess it proves what people say about all the talk being a bunch of hot air...''
''Yes, the rumors are all completely false. She's nothing like that.'' Makoto's tone held no doubt. ''I was just concerned you were getting wrapped up in shady buisness so she's here for support.''
''Hmm...whatever. I was wondering...'' Eiko remarked, pausing as her eyes fell on something on the desk. ''...is that a Buchimaru-kun pencil case?!''
''Huh? You know about Buchimaru-kun?''
''I had like, tons of Buchi stuff back when I was a kid. What a blast from the past! Wait, why's it so beat up?''
''Well, it was given to me when I was still in elementary school...'' Makoto admitted regretfully. ''...I'd like to buy a new one but they've stopped selling Buchimaru-kun merchandise.''
''OMG, this is too hilarious!'' Eiko smiled. ''The student council president has an adorable pencil case? My image of you has done like a complete 360 today.''
''I...think that's a full circle.'' The girl reminded, somewhat surprised by this turnout.
''Mmm, I dunno, I'm just real surprised. You don't really look like the kinda person who'd be into that stuff.'' Eiko smiled. ''I mean I always thought you were kinda like a robot but I ugess I just had to get to know you better. Hey, what don't we trade phone numbers? I really wanna talk to you more about Buchimaru-kun...and maybe even a possible boyfriend if you get one.''
''Oh, um...okay.''
"If you ever thought she was a robot, you're in for a real surprise. She's a great friend." Namine put in.
''Even better...saved! Oh crap, it's already this late? I've gotta get to work!'' Eiko paused. ''I'll send you tons of pics of my Buchimaru-kun collection later though, bye byeee!''
''That was some talk...'' Namine glanced at Eiko's retreating figure.
''She was all over the place.'' Makoto remarked. ''I'm kind of in shock, she thought I was a robot.''
''Don't let it get to you. She just didn't know you well.''
''That's just it, though. It's likely what others think of me as well.'' Makoto stated. ''I thought I had changed after the incident with Kaneshiro, but perhaps it wasn't enough...''
''Well, you're working on that, aren't you? Broadening your horizons. You're the one who said it'll help you get new perspective.''
She half-smiled ''So I did...that aside, it was almost inspiring to meet someone so distinct from myself. I'm going to try and look at things a little differently from now on.'' She paused. ''And well, I think that will help me break out my shell. I hope you're ready, I'm going to show you how useful an honor student can really be.''
Namine smiled ''Looking forward to it.''
A little while later, after receiving a text from Yusuke, Namine headed out to meet him at a church...
''Our prior theme, love...It proved to be quite useful for me...'' Yusuke remarked.
''Oh, that's good...'' Namine recalled how their attempts to find him something to paint were difficult. ''...I wondered, that's one vast theme to choose from.''
''I agree but even after that troublesome turnaround, I found inspiration. After our enlightening session, I once again attempted to paint. However, nothing I put on the canvas was to my satisfaction. Before the gods of art, I am naught but a lost sheep. Which is why we have come here.''
The girl blinked, wondering where he was going with this...
''Our theme today shall be anguish! I shall paint the anguish Christ felt as he bore the sin of mankind! I have seen various sculptures and paintings on the matter...but replicating them won't do. Would any believers be willing to model and help me capture the true essence of anguish?'' There was no response. ''I suppose not...well then, Namine, you shall be my model.''
''That's fine and all and I'm good for helping you...My opinion on the nude painting is not going to change though.'' She said flatly.
''I'm well aware of that and I wouldn't ask you either.'' He admitted, much to her relief. "Being found stark naked in a church would be even bigger news than the Phantom Thieves. Now then, let us begin. Show me a pose that will put the anguish of Christ on full display.''
''Umm, that's kind of vague...like what?''
''Ah yes, my apologies. Perhaps this would help.'' Yusuke took out his phone and showed her a few pictures. ''How about this one?''
''Ah, I guess so?'' She went to try it out.
''Almost, raise your hands higher, please.'' Yusuke's expression lit up. ''Yes, give more anguish! Bring it to its upper limit!''
Namine looked a bit taken aback as she tried to heed his words ''Hold on...''
''Ah, that's better! This is the Passion of Christ...Forsaken by his disciples, abhorred as a criminal by the public, pierced with nails and hung on the cross...'' He tried the pose. ''...I understand now...It feels as if though something is boiling up within me!''
''How does this even help you...?'' There was no need for them both to pose, was there?
The priest walked over ''What're you children doing?''
''Well...this is an art study.'' Yusuke answered.
He blinked ''Art? That...?''
''I am attempting to paint anguish, so I decided to use the crucifixation of Christ as a point of reference.''
''So you're interested in the anguish of crucifixation?'' The priest nodded. ''While it is true that Jesus' crucifxation on the cross is a symbol of deep suffering. It also bears a much more positive message, of resurrection and forgiveness.''
''Resurrection...Forgiveness?'' Yusuke echoed. ''I'm not sure I understand...Those ideas are contradictory to my conception of anguish.''
''It may be difficult to grap but they are all connected.'' He returned.
''Oh! I think I kind of get it...like how even in hard times people learn and become stronger. Maybe even how they learn that life goes on even after their terrible losses, when one feels that everything is over?'' Namine offered. ''Suffering happens but if you get over it, it's like you can start fresh...and maybe even forgive.''
''Well put.'' The priest smiled ''You're wise beyond your years, young lady.''
''Thank you...''
He looked at Yusuke ''And by the way...I suggest you contain your excitement here, you may trouble the congregation.'' He left.
''So those shocking depictions were actually meant to represent forgiveness not pain. Hm...hope from anguish. I'm not sure I understand.'' Yusuke admitted. ''You seemed to follow what he said well, Namine. Do you know?''
''In a sense. Have you ever heard that saying, that there's a silver lining everywhere? It's like the effect of our work in the Metaverse. The targets cause suffering and sometimes they suffered so much but once we're done they find their way, they can find hope...at least that's how it feels to me.''
''I see...as always you have such an interesting perspective. I must learn more about the hearts of men. Namine, do you think I will be able to capture the truth someday?''
The girl didn't doubt her answer ''Yup! Just have faith.''
''...Indeed. If I do not have belief in my own abilities, I will never come to accompish anything.'' He paused. ''This is exceedingly strange though. Spending time with you has helped me discover new aspects of myself. You are perhaps...a mirror of sorts. If there is anything I can do in return, please let me know. I wish to repay your kindness.''
The next day...
After going to check up on Futaba, Namine headed out to the flower shop for a shift due to her part-time job. It was as she was leaving that she was found by someone she hadn't expected to see there: Haru.
''I thought I saw you.'' The girl smiled as they both stopped once Namine finished things up. ''It's been a while, hasn't it?''
''Yup.'' They got together sometimes at school and worked at gardening, but they barely had any time to really go out like they intended to. ''I guess we both wind up being pretty busy. One would think you'd have it a little easier though I guess both our situations come with their own set of issues.''
''I suppose so.'' Yes, people would imagine her life as an heiress was easy and perhaps it was in a way but in others it was also demanding. Namine hadn't cared one bit about her family's wealth and just saw Haru for who she was, something that meant a lot to the girl. ''So since we're both free now, would you like to join me for a little tour? There was this street I've been meaning to visit.''
''Sure thing, let's go!''
The girls visited a few shops and spent some time catching up...
Haru admired the selection of accessories they were both observing. The shop didn't seem like much from the outside but there certainly was quite the variety within it. ''I never imagined we'd find so much...what do you think of this one, Nami-chan?''
Namine glanced at the necklance she was pointing at, it had a circle with a gem in the center area. ''Not bad, actually, but I think I'll be taking this one.'' She held up a necklace with a translucent blue music note decoration.
''Oh, it's pretty! You must have an eye for this sort of thing.''
''Haha, you think so? Thanks.''
When they stopped at a grocery store, Namine was curious to see her friend buy a certain type of coffee. ''You looked interested back there, so you like coffee?''
Haru nodded, putting the bag away ''I've grown used to it for years now. Grandfather used to run a cafe and he just looked to make people happy, even offering meals to those who couldn't afford them. Everyone in the community loved the place...''
''Heeh, can't say I don't understand. That sounds really nice.'' Namine remarked.
''Yes. Perhaps it's due to being around that place for so long that I find coffee to be soothing. I'm actually trying to learn how to make it like he used to.''
''Oh yeah? Hey, how about you come over to Leblanc sometime? I bet you'll like Boss' coffee.''
Haru nodded ''I'm looking forward to trying it.''
Namine looked around, her gaze lingering at a building that seemed to stand out a little from the others near it. ''Say, any idea what that place is?''
''Hmm...If I recall correctly, it's a church. I think I've come by before but it's been some time now.'' Haru returned.
Both went in after a moment. The place seemed mostly empty, so the only other person inside certainly stood out to Namine and Haru. It was a girl their age with dark purple hair and green eyes. She was sitting on one of the benches with a shogi board beside her. Curiously enough, she seemed to be playing on her own but she stopped mid-way upon noticing them.
''Ah, hi there. Sorry if we startled you.'' Namine began, the girl smiling back.
''There's nothing to apologize for. I was merely lost in thought.''
''This seems like a bit of an odd place to play.''
''It's actually quite helpful, I needed some place quiet to focus and help me develop some new moves.''
''Oh, makes sense. You're pretty dedicated.'' Namine remarked.
''I'll say, you certainly seemed focused.'' Haru had been wondering why something about the girl seemed familiar but she thought it over and the answer hit then. Wasn't she that famous shogi player? She vaguely recalled hearing something about a girl playing shogi in a church...
''Ah, it's nothing so special. I merely enjoy the game.'' The girl admitted.
Haru decided it wouldn't hurt to confirm her suspicions ''Excuse me, this just makes me think...you remind me of a recent story I heard. Would you by any chance be Togo Hifumi-san?''
The girl faltered ''Yes, that's me...''
Namine raised an eye ''So she's famous?''
''I've mostly overhead some talk of a prodigy player rising up the ranks. I believe they call her the Venus of Shogi.''
''Wow...'' That sounded impressive-she must be really skilled.
''Yes-it's over the top. I'm hardly so deserving of such a title.'' Hifumi stated.
Haru noted the girl's differing stance ''Oh, sorry if it makes you uncomfortable...''
Hifumi didn't really mind though ''It's quite all right. It's natural to be curious.''
''Ah, I'm Namine and that's my friend Haru. We were just walking around the area and this place sort of stood out.'' The girl paused. ''Would you mind if I ask what shogi's like? I used to play chess so I'm curious to see how different they are.''
''Well, let's see...'' Hifumi trailed off, thinking the answer over.
''Man, that hit the spot...'' Ryuji leaned back after finishing off his lunch. He had just stopped by Leblanc and it seemed like a good time to eat. Luckily, it was only him, Namine and Morgana present so they could talk about their thief work with no trouble.
''So you guys think Futaba shut us out because she didn't believe there was anythin' we could do?'' He wondered.
''It's just a guess.'' Morgana admitted. ''From the sound of it, she was pretty worried about asking us for help in the first place. She gave it a lot of thought. It's almost like she sees us as the last resort.''
''Yeah, but that doesn't add up. She shut us out!''
''I realize that but it can't be helped. Maybe...'' Morgana hesitated. ''...after all this time, she's just so used to blocking everyone out that it was just like falling back on old habits.''
Namine privately thought the cat was on to something. This made her remember that she never really got to tell them about her visits to Futaba. After all that happened, the chance never came up.
Then again...she wasn't sure if there was a point in mentioning it. After all, they'd hardly talked after her first visit and the thought just left her wondering what to do. She doubted bringing the subject up would make any difference.
''So basically we have to do something about Medjed but since Futaba might be the only one who can help us, we've gotta look into changing her heart. But there's no way to go any further in the Palace...if we don't pull this off, we're screwed!'' Ryuji exclaimed.
''You're just making it worse, Ryuji. One thing at a time, remember?'' Morgana reminded.
He sighed ''I guess that's the only way to go...but man, it'll really be somethin' else when we pull this off. We'll be popular like crazy!''
''You really think about this fame a lot, huh? Is there any point considering that our identities are hidden?'' Namine understood that it was important for them considering their work in Mementos but she didn't want to put too much stock in it either.
''Ah...'' The blond was momentarily stumped but he soon managed a reply. ''...it's cool, I'll still enjoy it anyway!''
''If you say so...'' The cat shrugged. ''...what bothers me is Makoto's sister. Why is she so convinced that the Chief actually has information that could be related to the mental shutdowns?''
Ryuji blinked ''Now that you mention it...''
''True, it's hard to believe that she would be going so far otherwise.'' Namine mused. ''Maybe we'll find some clue in the Palace.''
''That's about the best I can think off too...'' The feline admitted.
Ryuji stood ''Oh well, we'll worry about it later. I better get going...''
Namine remembered something ''Oh Ryuji, you think you can do me a favor?''
He looked curious ''What's up?''
''Come on.'' He followed the girl into the kitchen and found her turning back to him with a box. ''I remember you saying you pass near Yusuke's dorm. Can you give him this?''
Nodding, he took the item. ''Anything you want to tell him?''
''Just that this has to do with what our talk in the ramen shop. See..."
"Seriously?" He uttered when she finished. "Damn I know he's short on money sometimes but whoa, this doesn't sound good."
Morgana nodded "It's probably like what Madarame' s old students said, an artist needs a sponsor to flourish in the art world."
"Makes sense." Ryuji grinned at Namine. "Still, count on you to look out for the team. As reliable as ever, leader. Glad you have our backs."
"So am I." Morgana added.
She giggled "Back at you, you're my friends and we're a team. I'll always try to do what was right for you."
Later, Namine left the cafe with Morgana to meet up with Ann and Shiho...
The burgundy haired girl paused, noticing Ann and Shiho nearby talking to a woman who appeared rather troubled. Their friends merely seemed confused, what was going on?
When they caught up, it was in time to hear the woman sigh ''...Well, I guess it can't be helped. Thanks for setting me straight anyway.''
''No problem. You're probably better off just going to talk to them. This seems to happen a lot lately.'' Ann remarked.
''I'll do that. See you around, Takamaki-chan.'' She left.
Ann sighed ''This is still going on...?'' She blinked, noticing Namine. ''Oh hey!'' Shiho looked over and smiled at the girl.
Namine looked curious ''Hi, you two. What was that about?''
''It's like we heard before. She's one of the models Ann worked with before. Apparently, she was told there was a shoot here but it looks like that was a lie.'' Shiho explained.
''Wait, this again?'' It had been something the three girls couldn't help but note around the shoots they went to with Ann. It seemed to be occasional but a bunch of models complained about getting those misleading calls and no one knew what to make of them.
''Yeah, the talk about it just stopped so I figured it was over. Now people are starting to blame each other for it. Heck, no one's sure what's going on.'' Ann stated.
''This is really weird...'' Shiho trailed off. ''...why would anyone be messing about with them all like that?''
No one responded as they were wondering the same thing. Why indeed?
''Well, anyway it's got nothing to do with us now. Come on.'' Ann gestured a hand forward. ''Makoto told me about the Ueno museum and I thought it might be an inspiration for my modeling.''
''I can see why. You've really meant it when you said you were getting serious about your job, huh?'' Morgana thought back, seeing her nod slightly then.
''So let's go!''
''It's kind of surprising, looking back with how things wound up...'' Ann mused as they entered one of the museum's halls.
''What do you mean?'' asked Shiho.
''Well, when I first met you two, I never thought we'd come to get along so well. That I'd be able to trust you...''
Namine could see what the girl was getting at. Especially since her bad reputation at the school was the cause. ''I think I get it but how does that apply with you two? You just barely mentioned how you met the other day but then...''
''Oh, we met at an art class.'' Shiho started.
''Yup, Shiho came up to me and said that my painting stunk.'' Ann recalled, ''And it really did, I could barely even look at the thing. Not really the best foundation for a friendship, huh?''
''No kidding...'' Namine looked between the two. ''...but you obviously hit off great after that.'' They nodded and she went on. ''Guess first impressions aren't all they're cracked up to be. We're all pretty good at subverting them. It honestly didn't look I would be able to make friends at Shujin but look at us now and then there's what happened with Yusuke and Makoto...''
''Hehe, yeah I hear you.'' Ann smiled. After all, they wound up thinking that Yusuke was a stalker and it never looked like they would get along with Makoto back then.
''As they say, there's really no knowing what life would bring.'' Shiho remarked. ''Well impressions aside and all, I'm really glad I got to meet you. I don't want to think what it would've been like otherwise.''
''Same here,'' Ann returned while Namine smiled.
The group continued walking and taking some time to observe the exhibition. ''Seeing the expressions and poses in the art was super informative. It makes me think I had the right idea to come.'' Ann admitted. ''Though, don't you think the descriptions are tough? I wish they'd make them easier to read...''
''Well, artists tend to be pretty expressive right? That's probably a way to show it.'' Shiho remarked.
''I guess so. You should hear Yusuke once he really gets going. Hey, how about we check that hall out? There sure is some crowd...''
''That really was interesting...'' Shiho mused. ''...you know, I've been thinking about maybe trying to learn about art some more. Maybe even try to draw a little...Those lessons we had back in middle school were actually fun.''
''Maybe for you...'' Ann shook her head a bit. ''...but hey, you should totally go for it. I know you haven't done it in a while but you were really good at photography too, I still keep those pictures you took of our trip last year.''
''You think so?''
''Well, after all that happened, you're sort of branching out and reinventing yourself. Why not go all the way?'' Namine half-smiled.
Shiho considered that ''That's a good point...I guess I've really just been focused on volley ball but I really can't look at it the same way again. That's worth a try and it sounds fun.''
''Go for it!'' Ann encouraged.
Her best friend nodded back ''Come to think of it, Namine, do you have any hobbies?''
''Well yeah, I found that I like cooking and gardening. I really used to enjoy music. I learned to play a few instruments and sing.''
''Oh-wait, why did you stop?'' Shiho blinked. ''I know things have been hectic for you but...''
''I guess it's a bit like volley ball for you. I just never felt like going back to that again. Kind of feels empty, seeing as all I have with it are memories from my old home.''
Ann and Morgana shared looks, understanding that this was the real problem. Namine had not only lost the last two years of her life but she'd also had friends and family alike turn on her because of a crime she didn't commit. They'd simply chosen to disregard all they knew and completely abandoned her. It wasn't that she avoided her old hobby because it made made her think back on those times, it was that she simply didn't see any point in trying. Those events had taken any love and joy she felt for the hobby away.
Ann silently cursed those people. How could they do that to her? She'd not only spent all this time with them but she'd even risked her life for their sakes. Namine deserved much better than this.
''You shouldn't give up on it either.'' She found herself saying. ''It doesn't have to end up like that. You had fun then too, right? Well, why don't you try getting back to it?''
''I think Ann's right.'' Shiho offered. ''We're all doing a bit of reinventing here. You said you were looking to expand your horizons, can't this be a way to do it? I know you don't feel like you should but still, keep the possibility in mind.''
Namine caught Morgana nodding to this from the corner of her eye, thinking their words over ''I guess I will...thanks.''
Well, let's just stop here for now.
I hope this was good. Considering the way things went down, I just figure I need to branch a bit further with the story and let it build for the Palace. They're going back next chapter. It just didn't seem right to try and put that here now and remember that this and the next chapter are in the span of a few days. Things can change then.
I'm going to get back to the deal with Namine's old hobby eventually. Thanks to everyone who's reading this, you guys are great. Seeing the reaction this story's causing keeps me motivated to write more. Thanks!
Well, till next time.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank 9)
Morgana (Magician Rank 4)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 8)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 4)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 4)
Igor (Aeon Rank 4)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 4)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 5)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 6)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 5)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 3)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 3)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 5)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 2)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 3)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 3)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 2)