Vangran: It's always nice to hear from you, glad to know this story has you that excited. It's great to know you think so highly of my work, this sort of thing makes it all the more worthwhile. Wings of Rebellion is one of my favorite stories so it means a lot that you'd even put my story on a similar scale. Hope you keep reading.
''We're making some good progress in the Palace.'' Morgana smiled. ''The situation may have started out badly but I think having a hacker like Futaba help us out would be great.''
Namine hummed in agreement as she put on her shoes. were preparing to leave to meet Akechi per the detective's request ''I just hope we can help her.''
''I think we can.'' Morgana asserted.
They had considered going to the Palace before but since Namine hadn't completely recovered from their last excursion and some of them were busy, they agreed it was best to wait.
''I think your efforts with her definitely made a difference. That being said, I can't shake the feeling that there's more to the situation than we know...'' Morgana admitted. ''...especially with how she mentioned her mom's work and how Nijima is convinced that it has to do with the mental shutdowns.''
''Yeah, I know...I tried looking up Cognitive Psience but there really wasn't much info. Some of the things Futaba mentioned have me wondering...if Isshiki-san may have discovered the Metaverse.'' It seemed like a bit of a long shot but when Namine thought back on how some of them learned of the other world, she couldn't discount it all together.
''Who can say?'' The cat knew all they had was guesses but with the situation as it is, things seemed to be falling into place. ''Guess we'll just have to wait and see, maybe we can get Futaba herself to tell us everything.''
She nodded, opening up her bag. The cat got in and she headed out ''So, what's in Shinagawa anyway? Any idea?''
''Not one-guess we'll find out now.''
As it turned out, the place that Akechi was interested in checking out was an aquarium. This came as a bit of a surprise to both phantom thieves but they took it in stride. Neither had ever come near this place before but it looked quite good.
A smile grew on Namine's face as she watched some angel fish swim around ''This is really nice!''
Akechi returned her smile ''I'm glad you think so. I was looking for a change of pace and this came to mind. It's actually a fairly popular place for students in my school.''
The two continued walking, taking in the sights. The aquarium had other visitors, mostly scattered here and there and doing their own thing. It was a relatively calm place, truly suited for those needing a peaceful moment.
Unfortunately, the peace wasn't meant to last as it wasn't long before Akechi was approached by a couple of his female fans. This also drew the attention of some people nearby, making them approach the three as most wanted to know what he thought of the recent situation caused by Medjed.
Namine and Morgana hung back, leaving him to it. The first had no desire to deal with this, hearing the latter comment ''Jeez, those girls are practically fawning over him...wasn't it like that when we saw him the other day too?''
The girl nodded ''Remember how many people we saw talking about Medjed on our way here? Looks like their threat is shaking everyone up.''
''True, I guess it just goes to show...''
Akechi approached them moments later, looking sheepish as he apologized ''I thought perhaps a change of my usual attire could help me lay low but perhaps that was wishful thinking.''
''It's fine, guess it's just the effect of your reputation.'' Namine stated as they began walking down the hall. ''By the way, I only know a few stories about the subject but do you think it was anything like this for the first Detective Prince?''
''Funny you should mention that, actually. I happen to admire Shirogane-san's work so I wanted to learn as much as I can from her. She kept to herself so much that she tended to be out of the public eye a lot back when she first began working...''
Morgana blinked, the first Detective Prince was a her? Why was she called prince? He made a mental note to ask Namine about this subject later, his curiosity now peaked.
''I hear she's a part of the international police now.'' Akechi continued. ''Truth be told, I wondered why she would handle things this way. I thought having this attention, seeing people appreciate what I do would surely feel excellent. But...as of more recently, I'm not so sure anymore.''
''Oh?'' Namine she appreciated the honesty. She wasn't about to judge him for his preferences, they hardly knew each other after all.
''Yes, well the only reason behind my fame is that I worked hard to solve a particular case that had the police stumped for a while. Given the situation around here at the time...it was likely quite a breakthrough for the media.'' He admitted. ''I had help but they mostly focused on me...and now that I see how many people are beginning to support the Phantom Thieves and look down on the police, I keep wondering about their reasons. Is it that hard to have faith in the law?''
Namine thought carefully about her next words ''I think you might be oversimplifying this, Akechi-kun.''
The detective looked at her curiously ''How so?''
''They must have their reasons-it could be anything, really. I just figure life isn't nearly so black or white.'' The girl returned. ''Personally, I've seen examples of the changes they made. Shibuya looked to be all right on the surface but if you spend some time there, you'd see signs of the damage Kaneshiro caused. Remember what you said about things being tense in Shujin when we met at the gate before? Well, it was because of Kaneshiro too. Not only did students get scammed with their schemes so badly, once the word got out, there were so many worried that it would happen to them next. I don't think I have to tell you about the damage Madarame caused, right?''
''No, you don't.'' Akechi affirmed. ''I see what you're getting at, Hyakuya-san. So your faith is largely connected to the difference they seem to be making out there, perhaps my perspective has been too narrow...''
Namine started as she heard a laugh cutting him off. It came from behind them, Akechi and Morgana looked on, just as surprised.
''Wait, don't tell me...'' The latter's eyes narrowed, recognizing the voice.
Ohya walked over, smirking ''Oh-ho, if it isn't my favorite source! here with the second Detective Prince...'' She blinked. ''...wait, what?!''
Namine sighed ''Hey, Ohya-san...'' She took the moment to tell the confused Akechi about her.
''Ah, I see...'' His expression turned curious. ''...so you're helping her with work?''
''Well, we happened to run into her back when we met another friend and we just wound up helping each other out.''
''So this is quite a nice little date you've got here...'' Ohya started, eyeing them with amusement.
Both teenagers looked at her with clear surprise before Namine stated ''What makes you think that? We're just friends.''
''You do realize a whole lotta girls would give an arm and a leg to be in this kind of spot with him now, right?''
Namine could agree to that ''Well, I guess so but that doesn't change my mind. I'm not interested in dating at the moment anyway but if I was, I'd prefer to really get to know the person I'm with. No offense or anything, Akechi-kun.''
''None taken.'' He assured. Though for a moment, it looked like he wanted to say something, he seemed to think better of it and merely added. ''I completely understand. I've seen examples of the people she's referring to and I'm very much relieved that you're nothing like that.''
''Really now?'' Ohya looked intrigued. ''Does this mean you don't care much for your fans?''
''It's not that, Hyakuya-san offers an interesting perspective and I enjoy my talks with her. I find it refreshing that she treats me as if she would anyone else.''
''Now isn't that something...'' The reporter's lips twitched. ''...although now that I think about it, it's a bit surprising to see you two get along so well. I mean, the kiddo here's a big Phantom Thief fan and you're pretty much the complete opposite.''
The detective arched an eye ''And? I fail to see why this prevent us from getting along.''
''Yeah, everyone's entitled to their own opinion.'' Namine chipped in.
''Fair enough.'' Ohya conceded. ''Actually, since we're all here, mind if I ask you two some questions?''
''...As opportunistic as ever, I see.'' Namine deadpanned.
The young woman smirked back ''Only way to go!'
Later on, Namine went to help Takemi at the clinic...
Takemi sighed, having just had to go after one of her patients who had left a handkerchief behind. The old woman had been pleased to have it back and also full of praise for the doctor, admitting that she had come by after the word spread about her in the community.
''Hey, why the long face?'' Namine inquired once they sat down ''That just proves you're making some real nice progress, that lady wasn't the only one who was happy with your work too.''
''...As if it was that simple, kid. I don't know what some of these people are thinking though. I've had a lot of crazy requests. Like, yesterday, a patient requested a sweet-smelling compress. And the other day, I had a request for a cold buster. Ha!'' Takemi scoffed.
Namine blinked, surprised ''I didn't know there was something like that...''
''That's because there isn't. A drug like that deserves a Nobel prize. Other requests have included their hair and skin tonics...I even had to do a consultation about a cat...'' She closed her eyes. ''...Sheesh, it's not like I'm some kind of genius doctor.''
''I'd say you really are, but you're acting like it's in the way.''
''That's because it is in the way. I'm only interested in completing the drug I told you about. That's my role as the Plague. I'm not suited for this other stuff.''
''But you've been handling things well. Doing this suits you more.'' Namine stated.
''What?...'' Takemi looked surprised when she nodded happily. ''...Really? Well, you're entitled to your opinion, kid. A town doctor, huh...? That sort of lifestyle might've been possible for me at one time, but now...''
''Well, why can't it be?'' The girl returned. ''You can get rid of that reputation, none of the people who came to see you care. I know I don't.''
''You're a rare sort yourself but...I did manage to find some help with my trials so I wonder but...'' She shook her head. ''...It looks like that girl is going to make a full recovery.'' Namine smiled at this. ''She wants to see you too by the way. The treatement seems to be a good match for her. So at least I can breathe a little easier for now. Hopefully, she'll be able to attend school soon.''
''Yeah, I hope so too.''
Both were left to tend to a couple making their way in, also having apparently heard the news about the clinic and so decided to come see for themselves.
Namine couldn't help smiling as she noted how they seemed pleased with the result as she returned to the hall in time to hear the wife speak...
''...sure, she's a little strange but that's not so bad.''
''I know, I don't see why she gets that kind of rep either.'' He admitted. ''Then again, I never did like that chief much and from the reaction I saw, I don't think I'm the only one.''
''He was kind of annoying, yeah.'' His wife exhaled. ''I kind of get the impression that he's rather used to having his word being the law and no one does anything about it. He might have bad-mouthed Takemi-san but he wasn't really coming off as a saint either.''
''I'll say...'' The husband paused when he noticed Namine. ''...oh, you're her assistant, correct?''
She nodded ''Could you tell me a little more about this guy? He's been around before. His name came up with one of the other patients too, I'm getting worried. I thought maybe if I knew more, I could help her deal with him.''
''Fair enough, we don't know much but...'' He began to explain.
''...Yeah, I really don't like this guy.'' Morgana spoke up after the couple left. ''He's starting to remind me of our targets. Especially with that shady trial story and how people seem to be taking his presence, I know she told you her part but why the heck is he so determined to get at Takemi?''
''I wish I knew. It sounds like he sent another cop to harass her the other day too. Looks like he's really not going to let this go at all.'' Namine frowned, a thought was forming in her mind but she decided it was too early to pursue. ''I think I'm going to look into this some more. It kind of feels like we're missing something here...''
''I know what you mean...'' Morgana blinked as the door nearby opened and Takemi came out.
''Ah, there you are. Well, since I need time to work after the development, I'll be having you assist some more.''
''Hey, I'm game!'' Namine assured.
Takemi smirked ''Good.''
The following day...
Namine was working with Sojiro in Leblanc and the cafe was quite active. While some of the regulars took time to chat with Sojiro as usual, he was on top of the situation and kept track of everything. Namine alternated between passing out the orders and taking care of the dishes until the people began to clear out.
Sojiro let out a breath, it was nice to see a lot of people come over here but there was no denying the relief he felt when times like this were settled. He glanced at Namine, who was sorting things out in the kitchen and his mind suddenly drifted back to what he overheard her telling Futaba on her first visit. A part of him did want to talk about that but he mostly just didn't have the heart to bring up her situation back in her old home, especially after what her parents did. This lead him to decide to talk to Yuri and Itsuki, who had confirmed everything and given him the full scope of the situation.
Needless to say, he was just as disgusted with those people as his old friends were. He couldn't understand how they could do that to her.
The worst part was, knowing his charge as he did now; if the roles had been reversed, Namine would have stood by them. She wouldn't have given a damn how hard it would be. He was especially glad that Namine's grandparents were her official guardians now. So while he wasn't sure what would happen in regards to her probation, he doubted she would have to go back to that town.
''Boss?'' Namine tilted her head. ''Something wrong?''
''No, just thinking...'' He returned. ''...Futaba's only mentioned it a little so I'm curious, what exactly goes on with your visits anyway?''
''Not much, really. I kind of figured it would be best if I tell her about myself and then she told me a bit on her own end. I don't want to push her so we're just taking it easy, I try to make small talk a lot and help out in general. I don't mind things being slow anyway, I told her I'd come back as long as there's no problem with that plan.''
''Yeah well, believe me kid, I don't think you'll find any complaints on this front. You did more than I expected you too. Thanks, it really means a lot that you'd go through all this.'' The barista had gotten people to help his daughter in the past but after a while, they'd all given up.
The girl smiled ''You already said that before but no problem, happy I could help.''
As per their agreement a little while ago, the girls decided to meet up. Since Ann had a shoot and Makoto wanted to see a movie, they split their plans up so Ann and Shiho would meet up with Namine and Makoto once both sides were done and they would head to a new shop in the underground mall.
''Sorry, I got here a bit early. I've been forward to this for sometime, so...'' Makoto trailed off as they paused near the cinema. ''That is...a famous director was responsible for this movie. Who wouldn't want to see it...?''
''You don't really have to explain that badly.'' Morgana remarked.
Namine nodded ''I wasn't going to ask...why do you look so flustered?''
She stiffened ''I-it's nothing! Let's go inside.''
The two shared equally puzzled looks before following her...
''Someone's really into this...'' Namine told Morgana quietly as the movie played on.
Her feline companion snickered at the look on Makoto's face ''No kidding. Her fists have been clenched this entire time...She was just making that stuff up.''
''T-that wasn't too bad.'' Makoto stated.
''Oh, admit it, you had a blast.'' Namine said with a grin, hearing Morgana snicker again at this.
Makoto looked away ''O-okay, fine...do you think it's weird a girl likes movies like this?''
''Nope, why would I think that?'' She returned.
''Same. I don't think it should matter.'' Morgana added.
''Thanks you both. This is the first time I've been told that.'' She smiled. ''Sorry that I called you over so suddenly. It felt weird watching a yakuza film on my own...''
"Why? You like what you like." Morgana tilted his head.
''Yeah, don't worry about it...that was interesting.'' Their leader added.
''Glad to hear it. And...as you said, I had a blast. Thanks to you. Shall we be on our way now?''
As it turned out, their friends were waiting near one of the mall's entrances. After a quick round of greetings, the four girls were on their way (Morgana had taken off on his own earlier).
It was then that Makoto was filled in on Shiho's situation completely, leaving her irked with the students of Shujin.
''I can certainly understanding you wanting to transfer after what happened but I never knew they talked like that.'' She frowned.
''You were lucky to miss it then, sometimes I feel like making gossip and rumors is all they ever do.'' Ann huffed.
''I wouldn't say it's lucky...'' Makoto let out a breath ''...I wish I'd known sooner Shiho-san, if there's anything I can to help...''
Shiho gave a small smile, she had seen some change back when they hung out after the festival but this was still a nice surprise. ''Thank you, Makoto-senpai. I have to say it's great to see how you've changed now.''
''Well, she's actually showing everyone who she really is.'' Namine offered when the brunette looked surprised.
''That's all the more better then. Don't worry about me though, the transfer is more about me also getting a fresh start so it's just fine.''
Namine nodded ''Otherwise it'd be like...what, one step forward, four steps back or something. It'd be a shame if you weren't there, Shiho but it means we've got to make times like these to hang out.''
''Absolutely.'' Ann agreed while Shiho smiled.
''For sure.''
''You really do have quite the eye, Ann. But I suppose we should expect that from you.'' Makoto took a moment to admire one of the blonde's choices.
Ann smiled ''Thanks, I was surprised to hear that attendant recognize me...it sounded like she saw the cover of one of my latest shoots.''
''Ah, that's right, she did mention something about you improving...'' She recalled.
''Did I? I'm not really sure...''
''You really did, Ann'' Shiho looked at their friends. ''You should have heard the magazine crew praise her back there. She really blew them away and I can definitey see why.''
''All that work you're putting is now paying off, huh?'' Namine smiled at the blonde, who grinned back.
''Hehe, yeah, I guess so.'' She paused. ''You know, I thought I was doing well in modeling before but I really didn't know anything. Now I'm just raring to improve and be the best model. It's a long term goal but that's what I want to do for the future. What about you, girls?''
''I'm honestly not too sure.'' Shiho admitted.
''Well, I'd imagine I would go into law school...'' Makoto trailed off, though Ann and Namine picked up on her odd tone but they decided to question her later. Both unknowingly had the same thought that she sounded somewhat unsure.
''It's nice to hear that some of us have plans, I don't have the slightest idea.'' Namine said at last.
''To be fair, that's normal, especially given your experiences Namine.'' Makoto stated and Ann hummed in agreement.
''Exactly, there's no rush. We can all figure out the best choice for us the right way.''
''That's true...'' Namine returned, feeling a little better with the words as she thought things over. ''...there's no knowing what the future holds but it's up to us to make the most of our time now, right?''
''Exactly.'' Makoto agreed.
''I couldn't said it better, Namine.'' Shiho added with a smile of her own.
Okay, let's stop here.
What do you think? I hope this was good. It's a way of getting me back to writing this again as I've really had a hard time of it lately, things were so busy. Anywho, I couldn't just focus on the Palace all the time so I wanted something a little different. I wasn't sure about involving much stuff from Royal but I liked some of their new additions so I'm going for it.. The aquarium looked real nice so I wanted to use it here.
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 4)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 8)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 5)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 4)
Igor (Aeon Rank 4)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 4)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 5)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 7)
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 3)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 3)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 2)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 2)