Wow, here I thought I was getting rusty after that hiatus but the last chapter got a round of good responses. Thanks a bunch, you guys are awesome, you help me keep this going.
Defender31415: Thanks! Don't apologize, your advice on Okumura really did help.
Vangran: I'm glad you like it. Good observation! Let's just say I've got a little plot of my own when it comes to Igor and the Velvet room. Yeah, I found the stilted lines you mentioned, I never actually remembered to proof read the chapter that day so I'm not surprised.
Candy Mix-Up: Thanks, I definitely will.
LordKirkleton: Been a long time since I've heard from you. Your review really made my day, thanks a bunch! I'm really happy to hear you like Namine and that you find my story so interesting. I couldn't agree more, sometimes just offering a helping hand to someone so they can fix their problems makes quite a difference. That's what I was going for. Well, I'm till a bit undecided on the romance front but I don't think it's time to start on that yet. Hope you made sure to catch up on that sleep though...
The next day came, marking the beginning of their plans with Futaba. As Namine made to head to the Sakura residence with Morgana, they were stopped by a curious Sojiro.
''So I hear you kids cooked up quite a training plan for Futaba.''
''Oh, it actually doubles up as a way to get to know her. She can't exactly get rid of her anxiety that easily so we'll help her through it.'' Namine returned. ''It's a gradual process, we'll start showing her around these parts for now and eventually spread it out. After that, it just depends on how she feels from there.''
Privately, she'd like it if Futaba could make it to the beach with them but she had no intention of pressing the issue. Especially when they had no idea how Futaba would take to her 'training'. Things weren't so simple so that the change of heart would remedy all the hacker's problems. She wanted to make sure the girl would be all right.
''Sounds good to me.'' The barista smiled. ''It's a pleasant surprise to see that she's up for this, also how well she's taken to you. Thanks for doing this.''
Namine smiled back ''You don't have to thank me, I'm glad to help.''
The two met up with Yusuke and Makoto near the Sakura residence before they all headed in. It didn't take them long to find Futaba, because...
Well, she was rather hard to miss. Thanks to the strange mask she had chosen to wear, it looked a little like a big doll's head and thus it really stood out before everything.
''...What the heck are you wearing?'' Morgana had to ask while Namine and Makoto looked bewildered.
''Well, I can't get started on this without my armor.'' Futaba said simply.
''Uh-huh, right...'' He droned flatly.
On the other hand, Yusuke appeared impressed ''Such avant garde design, you have excellent taste.''
Futaba laughed while the others exhanged uncertain looks, questioning the tastes that would have them liking something of that odd design.
''L-let's get started, shall we?'' Makoto sighed.
The five went to Futaba's room and took their seats before Morgana spoke up.
''You have an idea to get started, Makoto?''
''I'd like to simply have a normal conversation. That is the basics of true communication after all.''
''You're confident.'' The cat noted.
''Yes, you must well-versed in speaking when you are student council president. Don't think hard about our conversation. We're just going to talk about ordinary topics.''
''And what do you mean by ordinary topics?'' Yusuke wondered.
''You know, things like food or even the weather. Let's start with food. What do you like to eat, Futaba?'' asked Makoto.
''Organic ones.''
''Um, that wasn't exactly what I meant...'' The girl looked down, this already felt awkward. She hadn't expected this.
"That's a surprise, in a good way." Morgana thought back to all the trash they'd noticed, particularly the instant yakisoba cups. "I don't suppose you'd be interested in getting back to actually eating some real, healthy food now?"
"You bet! I ordered some of my favorites before you guys showed up. I'll let you guys try some."
"What if Makoto tries cooking for you? She's really focused on her health too." The cat added.
Futaba hummed "I dunno...isn't her food really bland?"
As the brunette tried to protest, Yusuke recalled having a conversation over the matter in LeBlanc. Which raised one question "Just how much of our conversations did you overhear?"
"Err...well..." From that they could infer that they were better off not knowing.
Namine decided to move on "Okay so besides organic stuff, you like curry, right?''
''Yeah, that's always good to me!'' Futaba smiled. ''How'd you know?''
''I just guessed because of something Boss mentioned...''
Makoto cleared her throat ''Well let's try something else, how about the weather? I heard that this heat wave is showing no sign of stopping.''
''Dunno, I haven't been out.'' Futaba reminded.
''O-oh, right...'' The brunette deflated, kicking herself for forgetting that fact.
''Makoto's getting overwhelmed...'' Morgana remarked.
The brunette frowned ''Th-this is odd...it wasn't supposed to go this way...''
Namine tried to think fast ''So going by the stuff we're seeing here, you play a lot of games right? I swear a couple of those figures look familiar...''
''Oh, you've probably seen them around before. Some of those are from games and anime that are pretty popular.'' Futaba returned. ''But yeah, I like them! Some of the games I played are old but they're totally good. You play games?''
''Sometimes, it mostly just depends on what I find.''
''Ooh, then I'll show you my collection! I bet we'll find something you'll like!''
Namine laughed ''Sounds good.''
''Well this is a turnaround...'' Morgana mused.
''Really...'' Makoto gave a small smile. ''...Futaba is more comfortable around Namine. Maybe it has to do with those visits she made before.''
''Maybe...'' The cat agreed. ''...so what're you doing anyway, Yusuke?''
''Yeah, you're awfully quiet...'' Futaba started.
''...Ah, superb.'' Looking closer, the group could see that he had been fiddling with Futaba's actions figures, they were all in completely different poses and even their heads were different...
''Some of their heads came off when I was moving them but I made sure to rearrange them pleasingly.''
''I don't know if I'd call that pleasing...'' Makoto didn't doubt Yusuke's artistic talent but looking at those ridiculous poses had to make her wonder about that choice.
Futaba cried out, clearly not liking this either ''M-my children...w-what have you done...to my children...?''
''They appear to be quite shoddily made. They almost fell apart while I was working.'' He stated.
Morgana gave him an odd look ''Uh, I'm pretty sure that's because they're not supposed to be moved around like that.''
''That's totally aren't! They're from Phoenix Rangers Neo Featherman! No...Yellow and Pink's heads...And Red's been hacked to bits...'' Futaba groaned as if in terrible pain. ''...This is all Inari's fault...''
Yusuke blinked, wondering where that came from. ''Inari?''
''Your thief clothes were like a fox. According to japanese folklore, foxes like inarizushi, thus inari.'' She said irritably.
''Inari...'' He frowned.
''Rggh, they were in the perfect poses too...! It was so much work getting them set up just right!'' Futaba scowled. ''You wouldn't know aesthetics if it hit you in the face, Inari!''
The artist was never going to take that one lying down ''H-how dare you say that to me of all people?!''
''We were doing well but that's not a conversation anymore...it's a full blown argument...'' Morgana groaned as the two continued to squabble.
''How'd it turn out like this...?'' Namine trailed off.
Makoto sighed ''...I suppose with Futaba, her reaction to conversations depend on the topics...''
Once the three talked them down, things calmed down quite a bit. In fact, Yusuke and Futaba soon engaged in quite a conversation, in which the hacker took the chance to lecture him about her action figures...
''I see...so their versatility allows you to recreate almost any dramatic scene you can imagine.''
''Mmhm, Victory is great for action and Neo's got the best transforming suit. So cool.'' Futaba smiled.
''Fascinating. Art depicts a flash of inspiration but models offer a much different means of enjoyment.'' The artist stated, cupping his chin.
''You were right, Makoto, the change of subject really helped with the conversation.'' Namine remarked.
Futaba perked up ''So this is all I gotta do? What a breeze!''
''In that case, we should advance to the next step.'' Yusuke stated. ''How about we have her spend time in someone else's room?''
''Yes, she hasn't had many chances to leave the house yet so that would be the perfect opportunity.'' Makoto concurred.
''Don't set the bar so high!'' Futaba exclaimed. They were getting carried away again!
''Hey, it'll be okay. We're still going to help you through this.'' Namine assured.
The girl sighed, she still wasn't sure why but Namine's presence was proving to be a source of comfort for her ''...Fine, if you say so...''
''I've left tomorrow to Ann and Ryuji, it'll be fine.'' Makoto stated.
Futaba looked nervous ''Can I wear my mask?''
''I-I think it would be best if you didn't...''
Morgana groaned ''There's really no telling how tommorrow's gonna go...''
''Well, let's just take it easy okay, no use rushing things.'' Namine stated.
''Are you gonna be there too?'' Futaba sighed in relief when the older girl nodded.
When she headed out again, Namine decided to try visiting Takemi, she needed to tell her about Miwa...
Morgana's eyes widened at the sight of the crowd gathering not too far the clinic ''What's all this about?''
''Let's find out.'' Namine began making her way through. Since most of them recognized her as Takemi's assistant, they got out of her way and soon she was inside.
She heard the sound of footsteps and the TV running nearby. Things started to make sense when it turned out to be a news report declaring that Oyamada had come clean.
''Hm?'' Takemi walked out of a room. ''Oh, it's you...sorry, I've been busy, I only saw that message you sent me late at night. You said you wanted to talk?''
''Ah yeah, something came up...um, did you see the news?'' Namine wanted to know.
''I've been meaning to...heard there was quite a buzz about it today.'' Takemi followed the girl's line of sight. Her eyes widened as the reporter's words sank in. Oyamada...had confessed...?
Takemi could barely believe her ears but it was clearly happening. He had not only told about the incident with the new drug, but his manipulations and even how he tried blaming everything on his subordinate. The truth was finally out in the open.
Just then, the little girl, her father and an old woman Takemi had treated recently came in.
''Oh, Doctor! And Onee-chan, too, hi!'' The girl grinned.
''Hey, kiddo. You sure look a whole lot better now.''
''Yup!'' She beamed back. ''It's all thanks to Doctor Takemi, she's the best!''
''She sure is, huh?''
The little girl's father smiled at the exchange before looking at Takemi ''I wanted to speak with you when I remembered that the hospital that was on the news is the same one you used to work at. Chief of Staff Oyamada turned himself in. He was manipulating things behind the scenes. Turns out he was the one who made that terrible medical error, and laid the blame on you. He was the one causing the recent trouble here, right?''
''Ah...'' Takemi blinked. ''...yes, I've only just heard the news...''
''I knew you weren't capable of doing those terrible things he kept accusing you of, dear.'' The old woman smiled. ''I knew something didn't add up about his stories and I think your sweet assistant did as well, isn't that right?''
''Yup.'' Namine smiled at her. ''Looks like we had the same idea, I've been wanting to talk about this too.''
''Hooray, Doctor!'' The little girl beamed. ''But...what's a medical error?''
''What? Um...it's something that shouldn't be allowed to happen, I guess...'' Takemi still felt stunned. She looked at Namine ''Is this all some elaborate joke? Oyamada actually surrendered himself...?''
''About that...'' Namine started. ''...seeing what he kept doing, I started looking into this. I posted a request on the Phan-Site.''
''Wait, are you saying...?''
''Yeah, he had a change of heart. The Phantom Thieves don't just target anyone so I figured they'd go for it if Oyamada needed to have that happen and it did.'' Truthfully, she didn't like lying but there was no way around this. ''I know the Phan-Site's admin and since he's aware that I work with you, he filled me in. Oyamada told the Phantom Thieves everything, he just started saying Miwa-chan died to save face and make sure the hospital's reputation would be untouched. She actually transferred to another hospital, it's near Inokashira park.''
''...So that's why...'' Takemi began to smile, feeling nothing but relief. She hadn't wanted to believe the rumors about Miwa but when she tried looking into them, nothing came up. To say that had scared her would be an understatement. At the time, her failure made her fear the worst. The doctor couldn't bear it if the word was true-that was why she wanted to believe that her former patient could still be saved.
She should've known Oyamada would've tried getting in the way...but now she was just so glad to find that her efforts weren't for naught-that Miwa was still alive...
''Ah, so this was the Phantom Thieves' work.'' The girl's father remarked. ''Good on them.''
''It really is. She was...'' The old lady paused, seeing Takemi's tears. ''...what's the matter, dear?''
The little girl was alarmed ''Are you okay, Doctor?!''
''...Yeah...'' Takemi wore a small smile as she wiped her eyes. ''...so that's what happened...thank goodness...''
''Shouldn't you be getting a move on?'' Namine asked with a growing smile while Morgana grinned. Knowing Takemi, she would likely want to go to that hospital given the situation. ''You want to see this for yourself, don't you?''
''...Absolutely.''
Later, back in Leblanc...
Sojiro looked up from the newspaper he had been reading when the door opened and Haru entered. ''Oh, welcome.''
The girl smiled ''Hello, sir. I've heard about this place so I've been meaning to see it for myself.''
''You don't say? Welcome to the real thing then, what would you like?''
Haru stopped to think ''I'll have the house blend, please.''
''Coming right up.''
Haru smiled as she enjoyed the taste of her coffee ''Delicious...it's just as great as Nami-chan said...''
She hadn't realized she had voiced this out loud until Sojiro spoke ''Wait, you know Namine?''
''Yes, we're in the same school. She's been an excellent friend.''
His lips twitched ''That doesn't surprise me, those rumors about her really would cause misunderstandings but she's a great kid.''
Haru nodded, she wasn't used to people approaching her or trying to befriend her without looking for some advantage due to her family's wealth. But Namine didn't care about that and just chose to see Haru for who she was, that meant more than the heiress could put in words.
Feeling that she was being rude, Haru introduced herself only for Sojiro to return the gesture. He was clearly a little surprised to hear of her surname and Haru knew he recognized it right away. He seemed to think better of bringing the subject up, something she was grateful for.
Still, Leblanc was raising a feeling Haru hadn't expected. It felt...nostalgic, in a way.
''Something wrong?'' Sojiro wanted to know, noticing her pensive look.
''Ah, n-no...I was just thinking back-you see, my grandfather ran a cafe years ago. In a sense, this place reminds me of it. It's because of him that I grew to enjoy coffee.'' Haru admitted.
''Oh? You must have been close.'' The barista remarking, noting the fondness in her tone.
Haru nodded ''I still think he's had quite an influence on me...'' She finished her coffee. ''...ah, is Nami-chan here by the way? I was hoping to surprise her.''
''You just missed her, she was running an errand for me. But she should be back...'' Both looked at the cafe door as it opened, revealing the girl in question. ''...oh, good timing.''
''Haru! When'd you get here?''
''Oh, a little while ago. This place fits your description, the coffee was delicious.'' The heiress returned as they both sat down.
''Right? You should try it with the curry too, they fit surprisingly well.''
''With curry?'' Haru blinked, curious. ''I suppose things do work out in unexpected ways.''
Namine nodded ''So how've you been?''
''Well...''
Sojiro prepared to leave when it was closing time ''So that was the heiress of Okumura Foods? Have to say, I didn't expect she'd be like that at all...''
''She's really nice, right?''
''Yeah, pretty polite too. From what I heard about her dad, one wouldn't think they'd be related.'' At Namine's curious look, he added ''One of my old regulars used to work for him. The guy sounds like a real piece of work to put it nicely. He couldn't wait to get out of the company after a while, he just made it sound like a real relief.''
''Oh...'' Namine wasn't sure what to make of that. ''...we've just been hanging out and I get the feeling she expected me to treat things differently with us when I remembered her dad's name. I don't really see why though, he's got nothing to do with whether I choose to be her friend or not.''
Sojiro decided not to remark on how that was different from how many would've taken it ''That's definitely for the best. From what she's said, that meant a lot to her.'' He picked up his coat. ''Well, I'm off. I'll be counting on you to close up.''
''Right.''
The next day...
It was agreed that Futaba would hang out with Namine, Morgana, Ann and Ryuji at Leblanc. The girl had come early as promised, only to be relieved when it was only them present. They soon began to talk about Futaba's collection of games.
''You even have games like that?'' Namine looked curious at the mention of an old shooting game she recalled playing years ago. ''I kind of thought you'd be more focused on the new ones.''
''I do keep up with new games but that doesn't mean the old ones should be ignored. It's a matter of taste, those who just focus on that kind of thing just don't know what they're missing.'' Futaba stated.
''I see what you mean...''
Morgana gave Futaba a curious look ''I have to say, you seem surprisingly calm. I thought you'd be more panicked.''
''It's just us here, no customers. That really helps.'' She admitted.
''Yooo.'' Ryuji called as he walked in, followed by Ann.
''We're here!''
The hacker almost jumped, any semblance of calm gone. Namine went to see the two ''Sorry we're late. We were out buying stuff and I got a little caught up in what to get.'' Ann smiled.
''So many snacks...what exactly do you plan on doing?!'' Morgana wondered, taken aback at the amount. That seemed like way, way too much for them.
''Well, summer vacation's the time when you lounge around in your room all day.'' Ryuji grinned.
''Yeah and eating snacks is the best part!'' Ann chirped.
''You're gonna get fat, y'know. I thought you were watching your figure now.'' Ryuji stated.
''Shut it, I'll just make up for it at the gym later.''
Ignoring the girl's glare, he looked around ''Hey, where's Futaba?''
''Well...'' Namine looked back.
''You have done well in coming here.'' The girl's voice made them look back.
''Wh-whoa!'' Ryuji yelped while Ann's eyes widened at the sight of the odd mask from yesterday and Namine sighed. ''Shit, that freaked me out...that you, Futaba?''
''Yup, welcome.'' Apparently, she was calmer with the mask on.
''Why are you wearing that?'' asked Ann.
''Habit.'' She said simply. ''Anyway, bring it!''
''Not sure I get it...but let's do this!'' Ryuji exclaimed.
''Sheesh, looks like today's going to be another noisy day...'' Morgana mumbled.
They headed up to the attic and began chatting...
''For real, it was freakin' amazing! There were girls all over me!'' Ryuji's grin faded at their expressions. ''...Wait, you don't believe a word I'm sayin' do you...?''
''Uh, it's you we're talking about here.'' Ann stated flatly. ''There's no way you were ever a chick magnet.''
''What was that?!'' He frowned.
''Sorry, Ryuji, I don't know if I'd go that far but it does sound like you were exaggerating.'' Namine added sheepishly.
His face fell ''You too?''
''That's about the nicest response you're going to get.'' Morgana stated.
''Agreed.'' Futaba added. ''As a member of the opposite sex, I sense no charm from you, Ryuji.''
''Plus, popular guys wouldn't go bragging about that stuff to other people.'' Morgana offered.
''Which is exactly what I'm having trouble believing this.'' Namine elaborated.
''Y-you know what? You're all wrong!''
''I keep wondering if I should do it while I'm still young but the dresses show a lot of skin, right?'' Ann mused. ''...Hey are you even listening?!''
''There's no point talkin' about wedding dresses right now. None of us have significant others.'' Ryuji returned.
''Yup, I don't wanna get married right now.'' Futaba added.
''Me neither.'' Namine stated.
''Can we please talk about something else?!'' Morgana cried.
''Y'know, Futaba's fine havin' conversations.'' Ryuji noted.
''Yeah, she doesn't have any trouble speaking her mind.'' Ann smiled.
Namine nudged the girl a little ''See, you're pulling it off just fine.''
''Eheheh, I guess so...'' Futaba grinned.
''It all seems normal to me.'' Ann stated.
''I dunno what normal is...'' The hacker began to smile. ''...but if this is it, I'm happy.''
''I totally thought you were gonna be some weirdo, but I guess all that worryin' was nothing.'' Ryuji stated.
''Mmhm, I'm relieved too. I think things should keep going smoothly at this point.'' Ann agreed with Ryuji. ''By the way, what's on the agenda for tomorrow?''
''How about we have her try to help around the store?'' Morgana suggested.
The model perked up ''That's perfect, it'll be good practice to have her up in front of strangers.''
''Eeep...!'' Futaba froze. ''Nope, nope, nope! Showing up in the shop at lunchtime'll be like, super-crushing hard mode!''
''You don't have to deal with customers if you don't want to. Maybe you could dry plates in the back?'' Morgana offered.
''Nngh...'' Okay, that DID sound better but the prospect was still unnerving.
''Don't worry so much, we're not leaving you all alone. Boss, Mona and I will be there for starters.'' Namine offered.
Futaba glanced at her before muttering ''...I'd be mad if you weren't.''
''You two sure get along, huh?'' Morgana noted.
''I dunno...I like it when she's here...'' Futaba admitted.
The cat sighed ''At least that's a start...''
''I've been thinking of introducing Futaba to Shiho, actually. I told her about you and she seems curious, she's up to helping with this.'' Ann admitted.
''Well, she sounds all right...so fine. It can't be any worse than what's coming.'' Futaba stated.
''Then it's all set. We'll be rootin' for you, Futaba!'' Ryuji grinned.
Nothing much happened the rest of the day, Futaba went back to work on a program she had thought of recently while Namine headed to her part-time job. Things went at a sedate pace and before they quite knew it, the next day came...
Thus, they were all at the cafe and getting ready to start.
Futaba was relieved to find that her suspicions about Shiho were true. The girl was very nice to her and though she was a little confused to see how awkward the hacker was, Shiho took it in stride and continued trying to make small talk with her. The hacker could already see why Ann liked the girl, she was rather friendly.
Futaba decided to try her own hand at making a little conversation ''S-so...um, you like the Phantom Thieves? There's all sorts of news about them.''
''I can't say I'm surprised but yes, I do.'' Shiho admitted. ''I find them impressive...if they hadn't intervened at Shujin, who knows what it would have taken for things to change...?''
''Oh yeah, because of that P.E teacher, right? Ryuji mentioned him yesterday.'' The hacker recalled. ''He sounds like a slimeball and the school administration is full of idiots for letting things go this badly for so long.''
''Yes but at least it's over.'' Shiho reminded herself to focus on that. She had nightmares every now and then about those awful times. A part of her still hated that it had taken the Phantom Thieves' intervention to act. It should not have been necessary, it just proved how unreliable the ones in charge of the school were.
Shiho was of the firm opinion that the Phantom Thieves were just, look at how much good they had done. For all people ragged on them, they fought for people whose voices couldn't be heard.
''So Ann-chan says you're really good with computers...She mentioned something about a game you created which actually raised millions.'' She remembered.
''Oh, that?'' Futaba thought back to the project she had worked on around three years ago. ''Ah, it's no big deal...''
''I think you're the only one who'd brush off something like that.'' Sojiro smirked. ''Remember how much fuss you caused then? The people were convinced that whoever created that game was a genius, which is right on the money.''
''S-shut up...'' Futaba retorted, blushing slightly. ''...they were overreacting. I messed up a bunch of stuff back there anyway, I'm working on something better...''
''That's amazing.'' Namine remarked as she joined the girls. ''So what kind of game was it?''
''I'm curious too, you seem to have some experience on games if you know how to make one from scratch.'' Shiho added.
Both girls were pleased to see that their attempts to keep things fun were working as Futaba loosed up again and began telling them about her plans...
''You want me to let Futaba help out around the shop?'' Sojiro clarified. ''But I've never had her do anything like that before. Is she gonna be OK?''
''We agreed that showing her a bunch of experiences would help.'' Namine offered.
''Well that does make sense, still...'' He was unsure.
''Can't we let her try it out for a bit, please?'' Shiho suggested. ''We're still going to keep an eye out of course but it doesn't hurt.''
''D-don't worry, I did graduate middle school last year...'' Futaba frowned. ''...I-I'll be fine if I just think of this as my first summer job of high school!''
''Well in that case...'' The barista was impressed by his daughter's drive and he wasn't about to do anything that could ruin it. ''...just don't push yourself too hard, Ok?''
Shiho glanced at the brewer ''Futaba-chan, turn it off.''
''Eep!'' Futaba hurried over to do so while Namine wiped the table nearby.
''Hey, you all right?'' Sojiro asked.
A man walked in ''The usual, Boss. Extra Strong.''
''Sure thing...'' He looked at Namine. ''...Keep an eye out on Futaba for me.''
Nodding, the girl looked at Futaba ''You OK?''
''Y-yeah, I'm totally not freaking out!''
Sweatdropping, the girl went on ''Ah, just calm down...''
''She a new part timer?'' The customer chuckled. ''Man smooth as always. What number Bond is this girl, Boss?''
''It's not like that.'' He sighed.
The customer seemed to ignore him ''You usually go for the older ones, right? It's only natural you'd want someone younger sometimes. It's like the Guatemala Peaberry coffee. It's acidic sweetness is akin to a breath of fresh air.''
''Sorry, we're serving a blend today.'' He offered before looking at the girls. ''Hey, bring him the coffee before it gets cold.''
Before anyone knew it, Futaba had taken over.
''A-ahhh!'' They looked back in alarm, seeing Futaba holding out her tray for the customer. The problem came in the form of her mask, which she had apparently chosen to bring again.
''Yo, here's your coffee.''
Shiho stared at the mask ''What in the world...?''
''This thing again?'' Namine sweatdropped while Morgana groaned.
''When did she...?'' Sojiro grunted. ''Hey, Futaba. Haven't I told you not to show up in front of people with that dumb thing on? And be more polite when you're bringing something to a customer.''
''H-h-here is your coffee...sir.''
Well, at least it was progress...
''A-ah, thanks...'' He managed awkwardly.
''Did you see?! I did my job right!'' Futaba chirped, her energy back in full force once it was just them in the shop.
''Um, you did try...'' Shiho started.
''But you really should take that thing off.'' Namine concluded. The mask had made things very awkward very fast and they were all of the opinion that it was best if Futaba got rid of it.
''But it, um, protects me from the steam!''
''Somehow I doubt...'' Shiho gave up and shook her head.
Namine sighed, similarly exasperated ''Well, baby steps and all, huh?''
''Sounds about right. To think Futaba'd go out and talk to a customer herself...Mask aside, I'm impressed.'' Sojiro smiled. ''Looks like people really can change.''
''Sojiro! Want to me bring more coffee around?'' Futaba asked brightly.
He didn't even think about the response ''Mask off first.''
She groaned but he wasn't about to drop this ''You're going to the underground mall soon, right? This thing will definitely stick out even more there, the last thing you need is to attract more attention to yourself, Futaba.''
''I guess you've got a point...'' Shiho had made the suggestion earlier and they decided to go for it but now. ''...I'm just not sure...''
''It's okay, we're just trying this out.'' Namine offered. ''No one's saying you have to go right away but it might be good for you to start branching out a little. You don't have to do this all at once, so long as you keep trying that's more than good enough. Right, Boss?''
''Absolutely.'' He returned readily. ''The progress you made already is pretty good, you have nothing to be ashamed of. You used to like going to Akihabara. Consider this a little preparation for that.''
''Well...okay.'' Futaba returned, feeling a little better with those words.
It was when until they arrived at the underground mall that Shiho saw big proof of how bad Futaba's social anxiety was. In Leblanc, she just assumed the girl was introverted and so had trouble dealing with people, which is what started causing her anxiety. She'd heard already from Ann but to think just being here intimidated the girl so much.
The poor thing had really been hurt in the past, hadn't she?
''...Do we have to do this now?'' Futaba asked meekly.
''It's not so bad, Futaba-chan. Just take a deep breath and follow us, we'll help you through it.'' Shiho offered.
''Yeah, but...'' The girl fidgeted. ''...people keep bumping into me and it makes everything worse...''
''Well...do you want to try something on a smaller scale then? A different area, maybe?'' Shiho suggested, Futaba bit her lip, thinking it over.
Namine decided to try a different tactic ''It'll be fine, Futaba. Look at it this way, you never would have considered coming here before. Even a small step forward counts in the long run.''
''Y-you think so?''
''I know so. You said you want a challenge right? Well, let's have a look around. Let's not quit just yet, okay?''
''Yeah!'' Futaba exclaimed. ''I don't want to lose. Tell me what's good around these parts then, I wanna see!''
Shiho smiled ''That's the spirit. Well then, let's start this way.''
When Namine got a text from Ryuji suggesting that they get together for a late lunch at Leblanc, they'd all agreed that it was a good idea. Namine thought fast and decided to grab some ice cream boxes from the supermarket instead of the cones they had initially been going for.
Ann's eyes lit up at the sight of the ice cream ''Good choice! It'd be nice to have some in this heat.''
''I know, right? Man, the weather just sucks today...'' Ryuji leaned on the couch.
''So how was the mall, Futaba?'' Morgana asked, having retreated earlier for a little nap before they had left.
''It was nerve-wracking to go but I wasn't alone so it went okay.'' The hacker spared Namine and Shiho grateful looks. ''The ice cream's nice and I got one figure I thought I'd never find again.'' She held up an action figure. ''I had this one years ago but a part of it broke and I hated that...it was so surprising to see it there.''
''Well, good for you.'' Makoto smiled at her. ''Gathering the courage to face your fears pays off in all sorts of ways. Don't you feel better?''
Futaba laughed a bit ''Now that you mention it, yeah! I don't know if I won't be scared next time but I still want to try.''
''Cool! That's the spirit!'' Ryuji encouraged, Futaba beamed back. Sojiro gave everyone plates of curry and they thanked him before proceeding to eat.
Ann hummed happily ''Futaba, I've never had curry that was so good before. Your mom's recipe rules!''
''I know, right?'' The girl grinned. ''Props to Sojiro too, of course.''
''Of course. No offense, Boss.''
He smiled back. ''None taken, Takamaki-chan. Wakaba really should get the credit here.''
They talked as they ate and drank. Ryuji found, much to his chagrin that Makoto, Yusuke and Shiho shared the others' opinion. As in, none of them believed he was a chick magnet.
''Sorry, Sakamoto, I have to agree there. You wouldn't need to boast if your popularity was the real thing.'' Sojiro stated.
''Aw, come on, Boss!''
Futaba snickered ''See?''
''Why don't you try picking up tips from the Chief? I bet he'd steer you in the right direction. He's got a pretty good handle when it comes to that kind of thing.'' Morgana thought aloud. Sojiro seemed to easily charm a number of the female visitors he had seen.
Ryuji was considering that when Ann and Shiho came back with the ice cream and spoons so everyone proceeded to take some. Shiho proceeded to take a picture of everyone present with a camera, leaving her best friend curious.
''That's a good one.'' Ann remarked once she got to see the picture. ''So you're getting back to trying photography after all?''
''Yup, Mom gave this to me as a present after I told her about our talk. I figured I'll just go all the way then.''
''Hey yeah, you said she was a good photographer.'' Ryuji remembered.
Ann nodded ''Remember some of those pictures you saw in my place? Like the one from the race last year? Shiho took it.''
''For real? Nice!''
The girl looked sheepish ''Well, I don't know...I just find that it's fun.''
''Yusuke, I've been wondering...'' Makoto started. ''...did you think about what Namine said a couple of days ago?''
''I assume you're referring to the talk of whether I could enjoy art.'' Yusuke saw her nod and so continued. ''I certainly have...that came out of nowhere but I found that it was true in a way. Lately, it seems as if I have been forcing myself to continue painting...and I hate that feeling. What Madarame did affected me in more ways than I realized, perhaps that was why I couldn't bring myself to contact Kawanabe-san.''
''S-sorry, I didn't mean to...'' It had just been a thought that occurred to Namine and she never expected that it would upset her friend like this.
''There's nothing to apologize for, Namine. You're trying to help me looking at things from many angles, something I'm grateful for.'' He assured. ''I still love art and I believe that will never change but I still yearn to paint like I used to-with a pure heart. I can no longer do so.''
''There's nothin' wrong with change, dude. Sometimes, we just gotta deal with the hand life deals us.'' Ryuji pointed out.
''He's right, I think it can be hard and may even seem impossible but so long as you keep trying, you can make it. You'll feel so much better afterwards.'' Makoto offered. ''In a way, isn't that what we're all trying to do?''
''Sounds about right.'' Namine agreed while the rest nodded. ''You're just trying to find your own way, Yusuke, you can do it.''
''Thank you.''
As he listened, Sojiro was growing more impressed with the group before him. They really were strong kids, all had their share of trouble but they were trying to deal with it. They were trying to adapt to their situations and deal with them well. As Makoto said, that was something anyone would have to deal with at some point.
Yusuke had a thought ''Ah, speaking of hobbies and past times...Namine, what do you say to try singing here?''
''Wait, what?''
''Well, from what Ann tells us, the main reason you can't enjoy music is the bad memories associated with it. Why not balance those out with some new positive ones?''
''That's a great idea!'' Ann smiled.
''Wait, she can sing?'' Futaba asked Morgana, who nodded and quickly told her about the situation.
Namine was clearly thrown for a loop ''Erm...but...''
Ryuji grinned ''Hey, go for it! Everyone's gotta start somewhere, y'know?''
''Yeah, I think he's on to something here. It certainly would be good to try.'' Makoto added.
''We'd love to hear you sing, Namine.'' Shiho chipped in.
''Yeah, come on, I wanna see how this turns out!'' Futaba exclaimed.
Still a bit unsure, Namine looked at Sojiro, who smirked ''Sounds all right to me. You should try, it'll help out in the long run. Come on, you kids really are breaking out of your comfort zone and branching out to learn and grow, right?''
''...All right,'' The girl didn't quite like the idea but she had promised to try and get back to her old hobby so... ''I guess it won't hurt...this really came out of the blue. Word of warning though, I'm pretty rusty now.''
''We'll be the judge of that. Go on.''
Namine first began using her phone, it soon became clear why when some music began to play. This had been the instrumental version of a song she was familiar with and so thought it would be good to try now.
(AN: Okay, I don't usually do this but it would help if you the opening theme of the Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel 3)
Everyone listened as the music played and Namine prepared herself. In moments, she began to sing. At first, she started out softly but her voice soon rose in power fittingly along with the music. Her voice was fine and melodious, creating an excellent effect with the song. The listeners soon found themselves very much enjoying themselves.
She may not have thought she was but they all agreed that Namine was skilled. Even if she was an old hand at this, she had a talent that was shining through.
Namine let out a breath once the song stopped, surprised. She found that she was getting into this performance before she really knew it.
Maybe she had missed her old hobby after all?
''Well...I think there's only one appropriate response here.'' Makoto began clapping. Evidently the rest agreed because she soon leading the applause from everyone present.
''That was great!''
''Heck yeah!''
''No way that's rusty, you were amazing!''
''I'll say.'' Sojiro agreed. ''Seems this worked like a charm. You've got one hell of a knack for this.''
A growing smile spread on Namine's lips as she felt her face grow warm ''...Thank you.''
And we're done!
Well, how was it? Good, I hope? I was going to stop the chapter earlier but then that last part with the lunch came to me when I was writing the chapter down and it seemed like it would fit nicely. So I felt like I had to put it there. I did say I wanted to work on getting Namine's passion for music back. For the record, this is step one.
That's it for the first part of Futaba's training week. I liked watching this part in canon, it was fun and interesting so I hope I did it justice. I've got a few more ideas in store before we get to the beach event, not sure if it'll be in the next chapter or the one after it, but it won't be far off. Anywho, that's all I had to say, so till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 5)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank 8)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 8)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 4)
Igor (Aeon Rank 4)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 4)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 5)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 8)
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)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 1)