Defender31415: Thanks. The idea seems interesting, I never actually thought to deal with Okumura's Palace like that and I guess Haru's fiance is kind of shoved to the wayside pretty soon. I'm curious, you've seen this kind of scenario done?
Deciding to see if he could pray for inspiration, Yusuke opted to go to Harajuku while asking Namine to join him...
''My, how fascinating...the pictures certainly don't do this shrine justice. Seeing truly is believing.''
This was the the third time he made such a comment and it was really making Namine wonder just how he spent his childhood if he saw so little of the city. In fact, how did Madarame raise him at all? Although, thinking of the arrogant faker, she had to wonder if he really even bothered, maybe it was the other students who helped. Then again, would Madarame have been planning to take advantage of him even back then?
Honestly, she didn't know anymore and it felt like she was just running around in circles.
Yusuke hardly took his eyes off the surroundings ''To think such an area is right in the city-the silence is simply otherworldly. I wonder if that's why religion has been a central motif in the art world. We should give an offering. Is there anything you want to wish for, Namine?''
''Not sure yet, you?''
''I'm not quite certain myself. Perhaps success or inspiration...?'' He shook his head ''...Reliance on a god feels like sophistry disgused as a prayer. That reminds me, Namine...Even a one yen offering is said to bring divine favors, yes?'
''I think that's the idea. It's the thought that count.''
''I assumed as much. I would offer more for increased monetary luck, but even five yen is tough for me at the moment...Ah, well, the gods will surely understand the dire situation of my wallet.''
''Did you try looking for a part time job? I know Ryuji wanted to help you find one.''
''Yes, but we haven't had much success.'' He admitted. ''I'm thankful for the food you've been making for me, it certainly made things easier. I suppose I've been so preoccupied with my artistic slump that I haven't really tried much lately.''
''Well I guess I understand and don't worry about the food, I might be using you for taste testing. Just a thought.''
He couldn't help chuckling at her teasing grin ''Well, I can hardly complain with the results so far. Perhaps I'll follow your lead and start learning to cook one day myself.''
''Hey, if you put in half the effort you do when it comes to art, you'll nail it in no time.''
''Perhaps, for now have you decided on a wish?''
The girl thought it over again ''Maybe...something to help me remember.'' At his curious look, she added. ''Ah, right I never told you, huh? See, a couple of years ago I met a friend who was visiting the town with family. It was a little rough but we hung out a whole bunch and it was fun...It's just after I woke up months ago, I'm having a hard time remembering him. I'm really close, I can think back on some of the times we spent but nothing about his face or name...He did say he wanted to come to the city so I can't help but wonder if he did after all.''
''I see...'' He nodded. ''...it's understandable to want such a wish. Perhaps the memory may come back to you after.''
''I hope you're right...''
A little after they finished praying, the two found a text on their group chat from Makoto. The girl had suggested a visit to the monajayaki place after having heard about it from Shiho. Since Ann and Ryuji were unfortunately busy, that left the two of them to join the girls. Both Yusuke and Makoto could only watch in surprise and curiosity as Namine and Shiho prepared their monjayaki...
''Come on, you two, just do as we did.'' The first put in.
''Right...'' Makoto blinked a few times, glancing at the menu ''...so you actually cook it on your own with a spatula?''
''Well, it's different but definitely worth it, Makoto-senpai.'' Shiho offered.
''That was that point of coming here for me so I'll have to try it for myself...and what I have told you about honorifics the other day, Shiho?''
''Oh, right. Sorry, Makoto-chan.''
''Well, it certainly is unique. I've never seen a restaurant where you have to make your own meal...'' Yusuke trailed off.
''Hey, it's part of the fun.'' Namine shrugged.
''Well, I'm glad you're both here. Your descriptions and that demonstration certainly helps. I'd hate to try and learn this only to ruin the food.'' Makoto's pensive expression grew as she continued reading the menu.
Shiho remembered the last time she had such a look ''Please don't tell me you're going to start worrying about the health benefits again.''
''H-hey! It only made sense to ask!''
Makoto worrying about a healthy diet was nothing new to Yusuke but he had to wonder what the girls were talking about. Noticing his curiousity, Namine brought him up to speed ''We went to get crepes the other day. Ann really wanted one after dealing with some trouble in the shoot. Makoto decided to quiz the stand owner about how healthy his crepes are and how she doubted he followed regulations or something...honestly, I stopped listening after a while. That was so awkward.''
''I see. Perhaps expecting such standards from a common shop you can find anywhere is a bit much.'' The artist concluded.
The brunette's muzzy expression remained ''You can't be too careful. He should've at least known some answers...'' Namine and Shiho shared amused glances. It was nice to see the girl so open and frank with them. ''...anyway, since the opportunity is here, excuse me! I'd like to order the most traditional monja on the menu. And...one of each of the most popular items on the menu...''
The rest could only look on, Namine voicing their shared confusion ''...Wasn't she just talking about being careful?''
''Well, it is Makoto-she never spares any effort when it comes to learning.'' Yusuke put in.
''Yeah, guess that's an honor student for you...'' Shiho trailed off.
Later, when Namine received Chihaya's text, she assumed the woman wanted her for another session but the fortune teller approached her at the station.
Well, she had been a little strange the other day, perhaps she just wanted to talk...
''Hyakuya-san, I still believe in the existence of fate. I mean, the fortunes I see have an extremely high accuracy rate. But...I suppose my divine power isn't completely absolute, huh?''
Namine tilted her head a little ''Those fortunes really are a big deal to you, huh? I mean...you're great at your job but is it really just about that?''
''No...I suppose I just need time to accept the reality. You know, I've wondered in the past whether fate really can be changed...'' She looked down. ''But I always concluded that it was something beyond out control. Almost like the laws of nature...eternal, impossible to defy...And yet there exist people like you who can ignore those laws and impose their will on the world...How can I become one of those people?''
''That's a bit much...I just want to believe. I do my best to trust in myself and keep going everyday.''
''Trust...does this mean I'm too easily influenced by my own fortune telling?'' Chihaya stood and took a few steps forward before facing Namine again. ''This city keeps finding ways to subvert my expectations. There was nobody like you back in my hometown in the country, Hyakuya-san.''
Now that, Namine hadn't expected ''You came from another town too?''
''Too? Do you mean...?''
''Yeah, I came here a few months ago.''
''Then we may be more similar than I thought...'' Chihaya sighed ''...My hometown was a small, traditional town deep in the mountains, populated almost entirely by older people. During the winter, it's practically inaccessible due to all the snow. That alone should tell you volumes. The youth there are forced to be strictly obedeient to their elders as well. Not explicitly of course...Oh and there's a small shrine in the center of the village. There, I...'' She shook her head. ''It doesn't matter anymore. I left that place to come to the city. It means nothing to me now!''
''Oh...'' What was with the sudden pause back there? ''...ah, that's...good?''
''After I arrived in Tokyo, I found comfort in this stone. It came from someone who dared to care about me, even though I'm just a monster with strange powers...''
A monster? What...? Where was this coming from?
Chihaya remained oblivious to her befuddlement ''...That's why I sell Holy Stones. I want to help those who suffer from inescapable fates similar to my own. But...I wonder if they do anything at all. After all, you managed to change the destinies of my clients without one.''
The girl quickly decided to dismiss that in favor of the most poignant question ''Wait a minute, why would anyone call you a monster?''
''Well, it is true. I have those powers that no one could describe.''
Namine scowled ''That's a horrible thing to say! It just means you're gifted, I don't see a monster here.''
''Ah...thank you.'' She let out ''You just keep surprising me.''
''It's the truth."
''I-I see...so that's how you feel. I keep wondering, Is it truly possible to change fate with nothing more than words, attitudes and passion?'' She proceeded to toss the stone away. ''If that's the case, I won't be needing this. I'm going to confront my fate head on with my own strength.''
Namine smiled ''That's great.''
''Yes...though, the chairman would be really mad if he found out.'' Chihaya stiffened, apparently having not meant to say that. ''O-oh, don't mind that! Just forget about it...unless you want to suffer my curse, that is. Anyway, if fate can be chanted. Maybe even mine can be corrected...right? It didn't work for me before but maybe this time...''
''I think at the end of the day, that depends on you.''
''R-right! I look forward to out continued exchange. At least, until I can manage to change my fate...'' Her smile grew. ''I'll be sure to put some extra effort into my fortune-telling for you! Thank you for today!''
The next day...
Once she finished her shift at her part-time job, Namine headed out of the underground mall, making a note of any job offers to tell Yusuke about later. It was as she was as she made her way through that she happened to notice the glowing door that lead to the Velvet Room at a secluded area nearby with Justine standing there.
''Ah, there you are Inmate.''
''Hi, Justine. Did you want something?''
''As a matter of fact, yes. Regarding the suggestion from your last visit...'' Justine trailed off meaningfully.
As she expected, Namine caught on right away.
It had been mostly a spur of the moment thing but Namine had, upon learning that the twins practically never left the Velvet Room, suggested to show them around the city. Caroline had taken the idea badly, it put her off mentioning anything of the sort ''...with how Caroline reacted, I kind of assumed that was a done deal...''
''Understandable, but as you well know my sister tends to have quite a short fuse.'' She would be the first to say that Caroline blowing up at Namine was far too much.
What the girl didn't know was that Caroline had privately admitted that even she felt a little bad about her reaction at the time. It was only her plea not to tell their charge that held Justine's tongue ''I have to admit, I'm curious. If you are still open to the idea, I would like to try such an outing, Inmate. My sister won't see a problem with it either.''
''Well, okay then...'' Namine stopped to think. ''...oh! I think I know a place.''
''So what is this place exactly, Inmate?'' Caroline looked around as Namine led them into the Planetarium.
''Oh, it's the Planetarium. It has all sorts of information about the stars and planets. There's even this really neat thing they do here and it's just like you're watching a meteor shower.''
The warden clearly didn't believe it ''Okay, now you're exaggerating. I'm sure it can't be that good.''
''Just check it out and decide then.''
''Well, aren't they just darlings?'' A woman addressed her companion. ''Those little girls must be cosplayers, they're so cute!''
''Heh, well if they are, they must be the best cosplayers I've ever seen...'' The man chuckled as they walked away.
Justine took note of Namine's amusement ''I assume you understood that, Inmate.''
''Yup, cosplaying is basically dressing up and pretending to be someone else. People tend to do it a bunch every now and then, it used to be mostly for fictional characters. Hold on...''
She looked up a picture of a cosplay on her phone and turned it to show them. ''...here's an example.''
Caroline huffed ''...Now that's just lame! I can't believe they're comparing us to something like that.''
''Well, you can think of it as coming in a bunch of levels. Some do tend to flop but the others are amazing.''
''I guess that makes sense...'' Caroline conceded. ''...but I still don't see the appeal here.''
''Neither do I. Such an activity appears to be a complete waste of time and effort.'' Justine added. ''Have you ever tried this 'cosplay', Inmate?''
''Nope, I never considered it either.''
''At least you have some sense, I guess. Honestly, humans come up with some very nonsensical ideas.'' Caroline rolled her eye. ''Anyway, Inmate, let's keep going.''
Having guided the twins around for a short while, Namine eventually took the two to watch the show...
''That was interesting.'' Justine commented. ''I am aware of humans studying astrology but to think the results are displayed in such a manner...''
''Yeah, that wasn't half bad. I thought that kind of stuff would be boring but it was okay.'' Caroline's words earned a small smile from her twin. ''So this is the kind of place that passes for fun for you, Inmate?''
''Mmhm and there's quite a few others. There's all sorts of places around here if you just try to look.''
''For someone in your situation, you're definitely living it up.'' Namine's curious look, prompted an explanation from Caroline. ''We've made sure to learn about you to fulfill our duties to the best of our ability. I'm honestly surprised you're taking your life as well as you are now, given your experiences.''
''Well, you're not the first to tell me that...'' Namine started. ''...I've learned that humans can be pretty resilient. Even when life knocks us down, time and again, we can find ways to rise back to our feet provided we keep having hope. Grandma and Grandpa really came through for me. I don't regret the choice I made that night and that's not about to change. You ever hear the saying 'every cloud has a silver lining'? I think it's true. I met a lot of people who made me glad I could hold on like I did. Besides, I hated to let things lie...I thought trying to hold on to hope was the only thing I could do. So I don't know, maybe I'm just that defiant?''
Justine gave a small smile ''You are certainly an intriguing person, Inmate.''
''Maybe a bit of a weirdo too.'' Caroline couldn't help but inject, her tone almost teasing. ''I mean, who would think of what you just pulled off today? Or plenty of the stuff you did, really?''
Namine shrugged, but she was smiling ''Well, I'm happy with my choices so if that makes me weird, sure why not?''
Caroline smirked, clearly amused at the response ''So it looks like the Phantom Thieves are a hot topic. I've been wondering...do you actually think people are encouraged by what they do to face the adversities of life?''
''That's hard to say, the Phantom Thieves fight for people whose voices can't be heard and deal with a corrupt society. I think the bottom line is, they'll give people the choice to do so. Take our school, for example, practically everyone was so convinced Kamoshida was invincible that they didn't do a thing.''
Justine nodded thoughtfully ''So you see their goal as inspiring people and giving them freedom and hope. The chance to find that strength within themselves.''
''Exactly.'' Namine confirmed. ''When you're backed against the wall with nowhere to turn and it seems like everything's at rock bottom, it can mean the world to have even a single person willing to be there for you. At least, that's how I feel about it. That's why I don't mind helping out how I can, to the best of my ability.''
Caroline blinked ''You're deep, Inmate. I never imagined...''
''I do recall warning you that you not to underestimate her before, Caroline.'' Justine chipped in.
Rolling her eye, the girl was about to retort but then she was distracted as the lights suddenly turned off. Confused, she then noticed Namine pointing up and so looked over, her eye widening at the sight of the show kicking off.
She had to admit Namine was right. Just looking at this made her think of watching a starry sky...
Later, the three left the Planetarium and walked down the street with Namine stopping to face the twins ''So, how was it?''
''I believe I speak for both of us when I say we had a good time.'' The girl smiled at Justine. ''Thank you for the idea, Inmate. This serves as a reminder of how remiss our information of this world has been.''
''Well, I'm glad you liked it. Honestly, I wondered what it was like for you guys in the Metaverse. I'd go nuts if I had to stay in one place all the time. I thought I should do something to repay you for the help you've given me. I'd say the same about Igor but I'm not sure how to go there...''
''While your consideration is appreciated, our Master has indicated that he is more than satisfied as long as you continue your rehabilitation.'' Justine offered.
''Besides, we all have our duties in the Velvet Room.'' Caroline added. ''Something that's very important and we can't be expected to drop everything on a whim, least of all because of you, Inmate.''
''I didn't mean it like that.'' Namine assured. ''It's just that, without you three, I wouldn't have been able to learn what I did about the Metaverse and even my own abilities. So I figured it was only appropriate to do something to pay you back.''
Caroline's expression made it clear that she didn't expect that ''Oh...well...you know you're really too nice for your own good.'' She added quickly, turning left while Namine and Justine shared amused looks.
''At any rate, we had best be on our way back...'' Justine started. ''...but before that, Inmate, may I trouble for another such outing if the opportunity arises?''
''Sure thing, Justine, I don't mind at all.'' The girl returned. It was interesting to get to talk to the two in a new setting, somehow it felt like she connected with them more, today was fun for her. ''What about you, Caroline?''
''If I feel like it.'' The girl returned flippantly. ''Anyway, she's right, we should be going. Make sure you don't slack off, Inmate!''
Namine nodded and made to leave too ''Another time then.''
As she passed the Sakura residence, Namine found Morgana near the house, with the cat soon joining her along the way...
''You'll never believe it, Futaba actually woke up before but then she ate a few snacks and went right back to sleep like nothing happened.''
That, she certainly hadn't expected ''Wait, really?''
''Yeah and what I really can't understand is that from what the Chief said, this is all standard for her. Good grief, this waiting's really beginning to get to me...'' Morgana wished he hadn't seen it. It only emphasized how they'd been waiting.
''Well, it can't be helped...'' Namine trailed off.
He sighed ''I guess...so where are you going?''
''Oh, I thought I'd check in at Takemi-sensei's clinic. I want to see how she's doing. You want to come?''
Morgana saw no reason not to, thinking he could use something to take his mind of the situation. Takemi was used to his presence by now enough to leave him be as long as he didn't wander around much, which helped his answer. ''Sure, why not?''
It was during that time that they learned of the trouble Takemi was facing in regards to her work, from the rising rumors (which were spreading around the area) to even some of her suppliers holding out on her. Fortunately, Takemi still seemed determined to keep going regardless.
''It's nice to see that people still trust you even with all this.'' Namine remarked.
''I guess...'' The doctor trailed off, appearing pensive.
''What's wrong?''
Takemi sighed ''Nothing, I'm just thinking...the word spread out even about the old medical trial. But now it's making out to be that Miwa-chan died as a result.''
Morgana blinked, that was a little strange. It had just been a few snippets here and there. Takemi had mentioned in passing that the news about the trial was mostly kept quiet, out of a desire to avoid damaging that hospital's reputation. So why now, all of a sudden?
''Well...I have a pretty good guess on who's behind all this.'' Both looked curious at the sudden statement.
''You're used to this, aren't you? It's the same person who's behind the bad reputation you told me about, right?'' Namine wondered.
''I had a feeling you'd notice. Yup, Oyamada's up to his old tricks again.''
Thinking of that unpleasant man, Namine could certainly see it ''It's like he really has it in for you.''
''You can say that again, kid. I don't know why he won't give it a rest.''
Namine had a thought ''Takemi-sensei, didn't you ever go see Miwa-chan again?''
''No...I'm holding out on that...'' The doctor admitted. ''...until I finish the cure. At the end of the day, my goal is Miwa-chan's smile.'' A smirk spread across her lips. ''When did I get so sappy?''
Namine smiled ''Come on, I thought we were past your tough side thing by now.''
''Heh, fair enough. Maybe that's why I feel okay about saying it in front of you.''
The two sat down and Takemi continued ''Honestly, Oyamada's really an irritant at this point. That's just another reason why I refuse to believe this…I think I can't bring myself to do it…I don't want her to die…'' Namine gave her a sympathetic look and she continued. ''…If I didn't know any better, I'd say he was jealous.''
''Well, never mind him then. You're doing plenty of good. I don't know what I can do but I'll help you.'' Namine assured.
Takemi gave a small smile ''...The sentiment's appreciated, kid. I'll be holding you to that.''
A little while after leaving, Namine was contacted by Sojiro, who asked her to pick up some groceries and so the two went to the market.
''I knew something about that guy was fishy.'' Morgana remarked.
''Yeah, his whole attitude wasn't helping either. But there's still a lot we don't know so...'' Namine took out her phone and accessed the Nav app.
The feline's ears twitched ''Oh, so you know his whole name?''
She nodded ''I considered this before so I talked to some of Takemi-sensei's patients.'' The girl entered the name Oyamada Shoichi and decided to have Mementos as the location. ''Mona, it's a hit. He has a shadow in Mementos.''
''Go figure.''
''Shadows can't really hide the truth or lie, right? I figure if there's any way to get the full scope of the situation, this would be it.'' Namine admitted.
''That's probably for the best, the guy might not talk to you in this world after all. He knows about your association with Takemi after all.'' Morgana remarked thoughtfully. ''So we'll definitely look in on this but let's talk to the others first.''
''Sounds good.''
Namine made a point of buying more groceries to make a cake, hoping Sojiro wouldn't ask too many questions. It wouldn't be much of a surprise otherwise.
''I think you're getting the hang of this. It's great that you're going through all the trouble to figure this out, the chief's going to love it.''
Returning Morgana's smile with one of her own, Namine happened to spot Ryuji on his way to Leblanc, only to backtrack upon noticing them.
Ryuji nodded when Namine explained about their recent find ''I get why you're worried, we should definitely target this guy. He sounds like a sleaze.''
''We will, it just feels like I'd be taking changing someone's heart way too lightly if I jump right to that choice.''
''Oh, gotcha.'' Ryuji suddenly remembered his own intentions in changing Yamauchi's heart before stopping himself. ''That's okay, so this is more about stopping a bad situation from goin' even worse, right?''
''Right. It's obvious that he's looking to cause trouble so I'd rather not wait until this go on longer.'' Namine declared.
''Good enough for me. We should totally help out, that doctor's medicine is really great in the Metaverse and she's an outcast like us. But she's still tryin' to work her way to her goals, I can respect that.'' Ryuji blinked at Morgana's sudden pause.
''What's up?'' He followed the feline's line of sight till their eyes landed on a newly arrived Akechi. It didn't take the detective long to notice them, either.
After exchanging greetings, Ryuji spoke up ''So hey, Namine and Makoto told us a little about what happened in the cafe. I kinda figured that you're always deadset on arresting the Phantom Thieves. Never thought you'd drop that for anything.''
Akechi just chuckled ''You're hardly the first to express such a sentiment but there's hardly much to it. I'm merely returning a favor. The Phantom Thieves seemed to be such a popular topic of discussion that I wound up learning about them even before I was asked to take the case. One might say they're practically the number one mystery in the city. I would very much like to uncover the truth about that but it also doesn't mean I can't ensure justice would be served even in a different situation.''
''Well, I think you're on the right track. It's good of you to take the effort. That suspect you mentioned sounds horrible.'' Namine remarked.
Ryuji nodded ''He seems like a total prick, no luck finding him yet?''
''I'm afraid not. I know the city was big but to think someone could disappear like this...'' Akechi shook his head. ''...by the way, there's something I've been meaning to ask Hyakuya-san.'' Namine gave him a quizzical look. ''It's about something I heard in passing from one of the policeman who was sent to Shujin after Kamoshida's arrest. There was word about an incident involving him and you, but the policeman I asked apparently heard some mixed opinions. Some spoke well of you and the others were the opposite. The prinicpal of the school apparently tried to dismiss it and all he would say was that the incident was caused by a grevious mistake.''
''You've gotta be kiddin' me!'' Ryuji knew exactly what Akechi was referring to and by the looks on their faces, so did his friends. ''How far did that fat bastard go to cover this up?''
''You took the words out of my mouth, Ryuji.'' Morgana muttered darkly, the man really was shameless.
Sighing, Namine looked at the confused detective ''The truth is...''
''Wait, what?'' This was the first time any of them had seen the detective angry. ''I've heard of what happened to the girl Kamoshida hurt enough to reduce her into making that attempt. I didn't think that was the same incident. You saved her life and yet those people still badmouthed you?''
''That's just how it is.'' It seemed that the incident caused a polarizing effect as far as opinions went but she really hadn't cared much at the time given the situation. Generally, she didn't know how far it went. ''I can't control people's opinions of me so let them say what they want. I'm just glad the truth's out in the open and more importantly that Shiho's all right.''
Ryuji had to admit it was gratifying to find someone else upset over this. It was surprising for it be Akechi of all people though ''You already know we like the Phantom Thieves. Wanna know another reason why we're glad they struck back then? That's why.''
''That's understandable, Sakamoto-kun.'' He returned. ''I wouldn't have much faith in the school either after something like that...''
The brunet was cut off by a scream.
There were a number of people running from something they couldn't make out. But as it were, the four found themselves having to hurry out of the way lest they get caught up in the chaos.
It was in the midst of that where they discovered the source of the trouble. A man was running around with a knife and gun in hand and a crazed look. One man brave enough to try to stop him was taken down, it was as if the man was a berserker determined to rage on no matter what. Seeing that of course, caused more panic and chaos. This lead to the group of four getting seperated among the crowd.
It wasn't long before Akechi was able to get a good look at the man, which made him stop in his tracks. That soon turned out to be a mistake as the man zeroed in on him and attacked. The detective tried his best to dodge the swinging knife coming at him but he stumbled as the man shot his arm then. In seconds, he pushed through and knocked away anyone in his path. He soon came across Namine and struck her when she managed to get back up. This allowed him enough time to grab her and hold her up by her throat. Namine tried to push him back but his grip was too strong, the man threw her against the wall before moving on. He shot at a woman who screamed when he locked eyes with her and knocked out another who froze up when she saw him before ploughing into a child and throwing him down.
Then, oddly enough, he froze up where he stood and in seconds, he crumbled to the ground.
Ryuji sat up with a groan, having been thrown down in the rush, which was when Morgana found him.
''Hey, you all right?''
''Yeah, damn, what a mess...you good, Mona?''
The cat nodded ''I think it's over...whatever that was...''
''Let's find out!'' The two began making their way through, soon coming across Akechi. ''Oh, hey you're all-whoa, your arm!''
The detective's attention was on the newly arrived ambulance cars, where the paramedics were seeing to the injured ''I'll be fine...Sakamoto-kun, if you're both here, where's Hyakuya-san?''
Morgana stiffened in alarm while Ryuji swore ''Crap, you're right! I lost track of her in all that mess...hang on!'' He and Morgana split up to look, and the latter had better luck. He was soon able to point both boys to their wayward companion, who was under the care of one of the paramedics.
The girl appeared to be asleep. Her head was bandaged and there were a few cuts and bruises visible with the paramedic just wrapping up her ankle.
''Namine!''
The paramedic looked at them ''Oh, you're her friends then? I understand your concerns but please try to quiet down. She has a concussion and panicking would only make the situation worse, I gave her medicine to deal with the pain. She'll be fine after a good long rest.''
Ryuji and Morgana sighed at this, while Akechi appeared relieved, eliciting a bemused look from the man ''Since you're here, I'd appreciate some help. I need to get in touch with the young lady's parents.''
''Oh, ah they're...not exactly in the picture. But her guardian lives nearby, I'll call him.'' Ryuji offered.
''Please do.''
While he prepared to do it, Ryuji was momentarily distracted when he saw Akechi glance towards the attacker, his arm finally having been mended by another paramedic. At the same time, the area was being analyzed by the recently arrived police.
It was what Akechi said then that made Ryuji stop in his tracks.
''...It really is him...''
''What? Akechi, you know the guy?'' Ryuji asked.
The brunet appeared startled, having forgotten he was there ''No, I wouldn't say I know him. He's actually the man we mentioned earlier, I mean...the suspect of our investigation.''
''Wait, what?!''
Primary investigation lead the police to determine that the man had a psychotic breakdown. Their information on the man, whose name was Suwabe Akio, proved that he had, in recent months, taken to keeping a weapon on him. His berseker like state lasted for a few minutes before he collapsed and died then and there. Since the information on the origin of psychotic breakdowns was so sparse, no one was sure what to think. Given the situation (since the investigation discovered a number of destroyed documents in his most recent home) the consensus seemed to be that the man might have actually learned something he shouldn't have and so was silenced.
Fortunately, he hadn't been able to kill anyone and all the injured had been well taken care of. This, naturally, applied to Namine and Akechi as well, both of whom were taking time to recuperate like the others.
Akechi thought this all certainly came out of left field. He'd never imagined that the investigation he'd decided to help on would tie to the psychotic breakdowns, which meant it likely had to do with the ongoing incidents over the last two years. This only left him more determined to find the truth, the criminal couldn't be allowed to get away, he wanted to ensure that justice would be served.
And we're done!
I hope you liked the chapter. Told you I had a few surprises in store! I just beat Persona 3 portable recently and Theodore's requests where you visit places had me wondering if the idea could be applied to Caroline and Justine so there we have it. The idea just occurred to me when I was writing the final details about the chapter down and the planetarium was the first place that came to mind.
I've had the idea about the investigation turning out like this since I started implementing it, this will have consequences. For now, all I will say is that Suwabe was involved in the conspiracy but when he got a big head and tried to gain power, the other members decided he had to be go. He tried to hide but failed in the end.
Well, ah, that's all I can think of at the moment. So thanks for reading so far and I hope you keep it up. Till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 5)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 8)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 6)
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 6)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 3)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 3)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 6)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 3)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 3)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 3)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 4)