Ryuji decided to invite his friends to go fishing. Makoto's suggestion of this being a possibly good idea for Futaba had the girl thinking it over, deciding it couldn't hurt. This lead to her asking Namine and Morgana to come along, thus they all met up along with Yusuke and Ryuji the next morning.
''So, it's just us?'' Morgana asked as Yusuke joined them outside Leblanc.
''Looks like it, Ann's never really been interested to even try fishing. She's hanging with Shiho anyway and Makoto said she was busy.'' Ryuji returned.
''I only tried fishing in games...'' Futaba said thoughtfully.
''You're definitely missing out then, it's cool. Just watch, I'll show you all gotta do!'' The blond paused when he saw Namine arrive. ''Hey, there's our rock star!''
''Can we not start that again?'' They'd been dropping some similar remarks ever since she sang for them before. Sure, the praise felt nice but she wasn't sure what to think when it came to her old hobby, it was complicated.
Namine would freely admit that Yusuke may have been on to something. That lunch would certainly make for a good memory. But maybe she needed some more time to settle her feelings on the matter. Either way, it felt like she had made some progress that day.
Ryuji just grinned ''Fine, I'll let you off for now. Let's go!''
''...Ryuji, when you said you'd teach us, I thought you were actually good at this.''
''O-oi!'' He frowned at Futaba. Truth be told though, no one could blame her as quite some time had passed and they had yet to find a single fish despite following the blond's instructions. ''Look, it's just a little bad luck okay? I've done this loads of times!''
Morgana wasn't convinced ''Talk's cheap, you know.''
''Maybe we're in a bad spot? The others are making it work.'' Namine gestured at a man not too far who hauled up a fish.
''I'm telling you it's fine, we just need some time.'' Ryuji said dismissively.
Morgana was about to point out that changing their fishing spot wouldn't hurt but then he spotted Yusuke coming over with a fish as long as half as his arm, throwing it in one of the buckets. ''Whoa, so you pulled it off!''
''Yes, I more or less followed Ryuji's instructions but we merely had the misfortune to choose a bad spot.''
Futaba spared the ex-athlete an annoyed look ''So he really was just being stubborn-where's that spot, Inari?''
Namine smiled as she placed a second fish in the bucket near her. ''Mona, you want fish for dinner?''
''Absolutely!''
They had certainly made quite a turnaround. The spot Yusuke chose really helped out change things and now they had a decent haul.
But it was Futaba who really lucked out as she had found the biggest fish so far and they had to help her haul it. Still, all in all, it was a good find.
''I can't believe Ryuji made such a big deal out of this, it's easy!'' The hacker chirped.
''Hey, don't go getting a big head just cuz you got lucky!''
''Ooh, jealous are we?''
''You wish!''
Futaba snickered and Morgana rolled his eyes ''You were the one who had to show off and act like you knew it all. That's what you get.''
''Oh, so that's what's going on. Should've known Sakamoto would be the source of all the noise.''
The group started and looked back in time to see Kawakami walk over. Ryuji blinked ''Whoa, Kawakami? What're ya doin' here?''
''Looks like someone's getting even more rude.'' She arched an eye, referencing the fact that he addressed her so informally.
''Oh, sorry...'' That was when he noticed the fishing rod and bucket she had on her. ''...you can fish?''
The teacher chose to ignore that ''What're you kids even doing in a place like this on a Sunday?''
''Ryuji said he'd show us how to fish.'' Namine returned.
''You don't say?'' She glanced at the fish they caught ''Not bad, Sakamoto, if they can pull this kind of haul with just you teaching them than maybe you do know your stuff.''
''H-hey, you don't have to say it like that! Besides, where do you even get off talking like some kind of big shot?'' The boy demanded irritably.
Kawakami gave him an unimpressed look before revealing the box were she kept her fish, leaving them surprised to see that it was almost full.
Namine blinked twice ''Whoa, Sensei, you're good at this!''
''Indeed, that's quite the haul.'' Yusuke added.
The woman gave a proud smile ''It comes with experience. What do you say to that, Sakamoto?''
The boy grumbled ''You just got lucky! I say I can beat you.''
''Don't go making promises you can't keep.'' She returned teasingly.
Futaba snickered as the two prepared to challenge each other while Morgana exhaled ''I have a feeling I know how this is going to end up...good grief.''
''So they actually had a draw?'' An amused Sojiro asked when Futaba regaled him with the story later that night.
''Yup...I think they had. Namine, how many rounds did it turn out to be? I got bored and stopped counting after your teacher won the second round.''
''Four.'' The burgundy haired girl sat next to her. ''I can see where you're coming from though, Ryuji definitely took that too far.''
''Yeah, I still think he lucked out too.'' Morgana chipped in.
''Anyway, things are going pretty well so far, so I wanna try something!'' Futaba fished an item out of her pocket.
Sojiro blinked but then smiled upon seeing what it was ''Fireworks? You know, that's a good idea.''
''Right? Come on!'' The girl hurried out once she lit the firework in her hand and in seconds, it began to sprinkle.
Once it burned out, she grabbed two and Sojiro helped her light them up before she grabbed them again and spun around herself ''Super double move!''
Morgana began to cough once the smoke drew closer to him ''H-hey, glad you're having fun but watch where you're pointing those things!''
Namine picked him up and he sighed ''Thanks...man, there's just no stopping here when she gets going, huh?''
The girl laughed a bit ''Well, it's all good...just look at them.'' The feline glanced back at Sojiro and Futaba to see them talking animatedly. ''This is nice proof of the fruit of our work, don't you think?''
The nice change in dynamic between the two did indeed emphasize as much ''Yup, it's definitely a reason to be proud of being Phantom Thieves!''
The next day, the girls began making preparations to go to the beach. While she was still nevous, Futaba had declared- to pleasant surprise-that she wanted to go with them. Thus, she joined the girls as they went shopping for swimsuits.
''Oh, so Yusuke's idea did help!'' Ann smiled.
''I guess?'' Namine half-smiled. ''Still not really sure where I stand there but I think we can count it as a work in progress.''
''Works for me, you've got a real knack for singing, you know? It'd be a shame not to make use of that talent.''
''Yeah, you were really good, Namine!'' Futaba added.
''I completely agree, it just means you might find a way to have fun with music again. We'll help make sure it happens.'' Makoto offered.
''Thanks,...''
Ann stopped when they reached the swimsuit section ''Aha, here we are.''
Futaba looked around ''Wait, you mean people are okay with wearing this stuff in public?''
''Yup, it's completely normal.''
The hacker blanched at the thought ''You're kidding me! That's showing way too much.''
''Actually, some of those are rather conservative.'' Makoto didn't even blink at Futaba's incredulous look, merely grabbing a hanger that had a string bikini before showing it to the girl.
''...Okay, point taken.'' Futaba conceded. ''Still, none of this seem right to me...''
''Sounds like you're nervous again. Relax, we'll definitely find something. We've got a pro when it comes to clothes, remember?'' Namine nodded at Ann.
The model winked back ''Take it easy, Futaba, you're in good hands.''
Later, back in Leblanc...
Namine and Futaba were talking to Sojiro and Morgana about the upcoming trip when the cafe's door opened and Akechi came in. The latter shrank back, though it didn't take her long to note how friendly the detective seemed with Namine from the exchange she was watching. That definitely came off as a surprise.
Sojiro appeared used to it though, taking the detective's order before going to prepare it. Futaba was left curious, Akechi just seemed like pretty smug and a bit of a know-it-all to her. He was clearly different now though...
''Ah, I assume she's Futaba-chan?'' He remarked, noticing the girl then. They knew that he noticed how terse Sojiro seemed to be because he went on. ''Not to worry, Sae-san told me quite a bit of the situation. I think she definitely went too far in her investigation. I'm only here because I was in the area.''
''Fair enough...'' Well, he never had much of a problem with the teen before so ''...sorry about that, guess it's still a touchy subject.''
''No, I understand.'' Akechi waved it off. ''I've made my opinion on her...let's just say too strong approach clear. We've just decided to avoid bringing it up since we're still working together on the Phantom Thieves investigation.''
''Makes sense.'' Sojiro took that to mean it was not to rouse anymore trouble since they had to work together. That didn't really surprise him, Sae certainly seemed to be stuck in her ways.
Akechi exhaled when the man headed to the kitchen ''...That could've gone better. Well, at least I seem to be welcome here. It's practically the opposite wherever I go lately.''
Namine blinked ''Is this about what you said the other night? How people were giving you a hard time because you're against the Phantom Thieves?''
''Exactly. Apparently my mother was in a relationship with some low life of a man. She was swiftly discarded when he learned she was pregnant...That despair lead to her death. Thanks to him, I was passed from foster home to foster home. I do quite well by myself these days but that's also why I think Sae-san had no right to try that custody threat. Futaba-chan seems to have a nice, stable home here with a caring guardian here. Ripping her away from that is cruel and uncalled for, blood is far from what matters to be a family.''
Futaba blinked, he was passed between foster homes? It made her remember how she was passed between her relatives. Maybe that's why he was able to understand how she felt about living with Sojiro...
''Exactly.'' Namine was relieved he understood so well. ''Nijima-san could've made things even worse than she probably knew...yeah, blood should be all that counts when it comes to family, those we choose to see as such are also important.''
''I can imagine. What do you think Futaba-chan, do you agree?'' Akechi wanted to know.
The girl nodded after a moment. Yeah, those people might be her relatives but they sure didn't feel like family. Sojiro on the other hand certainly did.
''So...you were passed around a bunch of homes too?''
Akechi seemed mildly surprised that she was addressing him but answered readily. ''Yes, it's not a good story. In fact...I might have been much worse off but I was lucky to run into a person who really helped over almost three years ago, That person has done more for me than I can ever repay. That still remains a big factor in how I've pulled ahead so far. Makes it seem like our experience isn't too different, right?''
''Y-yeah...'' Futaba idly wondered who that person was but she didn't really feel up to asking, the subject felt awkward enough. This person had apparently been there for the detective just like Sojiro was for her.
''By the way, how do you feel about the Phantom Thieves? They've been quite a hit, especially after Medjed's defeat. Though it's not quite certain whether they were behind it or it was just an avid supporter.'' Akechi mused, noticing the girl step closer to Namine. ''Ah, too much, right?''
''Yeah...she's making progress but well, you know...'' Namine trailed off. It hadn't been a surprise, the girl had similar shrunk back when they encountered Kawakami before too.
''It's understandable.'' He finished his drink. ''I have to say, I'm jealous that you get to have coffee like this every day, Hyakuya-san. I would never have thought you'd be boarding at this cafe...We seem to share some kind of bond.''
''You think?'' Namine blinked.
''...Sounds like just chance to me.'' Futaba said quietly but they both heard her.
The detective laughed but it almost seemed a little forced ''Who can say? I heard that fate brings people together and I sometimes wonder if it's true. Hm, I think I definitely found my go-to cafe.'' He stood ''Well, the fact that you're trying to step out of your comfort zone is good, Futaba-chan. I'm sure you'll improve your social skills if you keep trying.''
The hacker was thrown off by those words, not expecting him to say anything of the sort. But when she looked at him in this different light, she could see why Namine was friendly with him, he really seemed to be different in person.
She watched the detective bid them both farewell and head on his way, the meeting leaving her thoughtful.
Morgana walked up to Futaba the next day as they prepared to leave ''Hey, relax, you're as stiff as a board.''
The hacker almost jumped at his voice ''I-I'm fine! I can totally do this!''
The feline wondered if she was trying to convince him or herself ''Ah come on, it'll be fine. Just think of what you've done so far.''
''Yeah...yeah, it's like a challenge level or something. I can do it!''
''Take care, all of you.'' Sojiro cautioned ''Watch out for Futaba for me.''
''We will.'' Namine assured.
Aforementioned girl frowned; didn't he trust her to take care of herself? ''Stop being such a worrywart! Everything will be all right.''
He chuckled, deciding not to remark on her sudden change of attitude ''Okay, okay...be safe and have fun, all of you.''
As Ryuji and Yusuke waited for the girls to get ready, they could see how many people had the same idea and thus the beach was crowded.
''Sorry for the wait.'' They turned back at Ann's voice, seeing the blond standing in a bright blue swimsuit that was decorated with flowers. Makoto was next to her, clad in a white similar outfit. Namine was on the brunet's left, she also wore a bikini but hers was purple and pink along with a matching sarong.
''Whoa...'' Morgana muttered.
Ryuji began to grin widely, also admiring the trio's beauty. Each of them certainly made for a vision.
Ann laughed at his expression ''Well, well, I see someone's finally got a better opinion of me!''
Namine and Makoto sweatdropped but then Yusuke spoke up ''Isn't Futaba done?''
''I thought she was...'' Makoto poked her head back in the dressing area of the shack. ''Futaba? Is everything okay?''
''Yup!'' The girl walked over, clad in a suit somewhat like Makoto's, only in yellow, leaving everyone stumped to see that her face was completely wrapped with towels. ''This is perfect!''
Ann sighed and Makoto shook her head before she proceeded to take them off ''There's nothing perfect about that.''
''Come on, you look nice.'' The model patted her shoulder.
''Yeah, we're here to have fun, right?'' Namine smiled.
Futaba exhaled, her lips twitching ''...Right.''
They managed to find a good spot to settle down and grab a bite to eat. Makoto looked around ''There's a lot of people-are you okay, Futaba?''
''Mmhm, you guys are here.''
Yusuke blinked when the girl revealed her chosen food, a container of yakisoba. ''You brought that here?''
''It's my comfort food.'' She returned simply.
Ryuji bit down into his corndog ''Man! I've had this stuff a bunch of times before but somehow it really tastes better here!''
''Let me have some!'' Morgana demanded.
''Sure! Here ya go.''
A few minutes later, he noticed how Makoto had eaten little. ''Hey, Makoto, everything okay? You're not eating.''
''It's fine, girls want to stay as slim as possible in a swimsuit.'' Morgana returned. ''Though I think you may be worrying too much, did you have breakfast?''
''Mona, no tact.'' Futaba said before the girl could respond, making the cat harrumph but he dropped the subject.
Once they were done, Ryuji looked over at everyone. ''What do you all wanna do? Play volleyball?''
''Nah, I've heard people talking about some banana boat ride on our way here. I wanna try that,'' Futaba stated.
''I'll come with you.'' Makoto stood.
''Me too.'' Ann added. ''Watch our stuff!''
''Oi!'' Ryuji frowned as the girls kept going. ''Wait, Namine, you're staying?''
''Mmhm, it's a three person ride anyway. I don't mind hanging back with you all. Anyone up for ice cream?''
Morgana hummed happily as he tasted the portion of ice cream she gave him ''That sure hits the spot, good call!''
''Indeed...'' Yusuke raised an eye. ''...is something wrong, Ryuji?''
The blond seemed irritated but he answered ''I can't stand the way the girls were acting now...it's like we were doormats. They didn't even think to ask about us just like that and here Namine's hanging back for us.''
''It's not that bad...'' The girl started to say.
''Don't try to defend them! I won't just take this lying down, we gotta take action. We'll show them that we should be treated better than this!'' Ryuji stood. ''Come on, Yusuke, don't you see? We're celebs who caused an uproar in society, we deserve a whole lot better!''
''Hm...perhaps you may be correct, but what did you have in mind?''
Morgana rolled his eyes at the artist's words, wishing he wouldn't humor their impatient teammate. But it was clear that both boys were going to go on whatever plan they had cooked up...
''We can steal hearts now and make ourselves some great memories!'' The boy declared passionately. ''I'll show Ann what good thieves we are. They're around us so much that the don't get it, but we can show our stuff now! It's Operation Babe Hunt time. We'll be back, you two!''
''Oh, brother...'' Morgana would've mentioned how Ryuji was focused on Ann's opinion but he found that he really wasn't in the mood. ''...Ryuji can dress it up all he wants but he's just going to try picking up girls.''
''I couldn't have said it better myself.'' Namine shook her head. ''Well, best to let them get it out of their system.''
The feline hummed in agreement, lying down next to the girl as she went on ''So should we find you a cute kitty for a girlfriend?''
Morgana groaned ''Don't tease me!''
Namine laughed ''I kid, I kid...I was just wondering if you can communicate with real cats. Did you ever try?''
''Huh...'' He blinked. ''...now that you mention it, never. But it is something to think about...''
Morgana smirked ''Looks like someone's quite a hit here.''
Namine smiled awkwardly, for a few minutes ago they were approached by two guys who began flirting with her and asking her to join them. The girl truthfully returned that she couldn't just leave before anyone came back. While the first appeared somewhat pushy, he wound up leaving in a huff when she wouldn't budge. Thankfully, the second had been more understanding so he dropped this and instead offered her to join him on his boat if she felt up for it.
''It just made me think about my human form...'' The cat admitted. ''...maybe I could visit this place with her one day once I turn back...''
''Well, I bet you'd be a gentleman then.'' Namine already knew who he was thinking of.''
Morgana puffed out his chest, pleased ''Absolutely, she deseve nothing less!''
Futaba's group returned shortly afterwards, Makoto's brow furrowed ''Did they just leave you like this?''
''It's all right, we've been having fun too.'' The girl returnd, missing how Morgana beamed at her for the statement. ''So how's the ride?''
''It was cool!'' Futaba enthused. ''I think I wanna try again soon-you gotta come with, Namine!''
''Sure thing. But for now, how about we take a few pictures?''
Ann perked up ''Sounds good!''
When they finished, Makoto noticed how their leader was busy with her phone ''What're you doing?''
''Oh, I thought I'd send a couple of those to Boss. I figured he might like to see it.''
The brunette smiled ''Good idea, I think it'd take a load off his mind.''
It wasn't long before Futaba spotted Ryuji, he was faced with the two men who had tried hitting on him in Shinjuku and was understandably unnerved as he recoiled and tried to stammering.''...Should we help him?''
Makoto sighed ''I suppose...I'll take care of it.''
They couldn't hear what the girl said but evidently, she had worked it out well as the two men soon left, smiling at Ryuji. Not all trouble was over though as another pair of men approached Ann and Makoto and began flirting and trying to get the two to join them.
''Those are your friends? You're kidding me!''
''They're miles better than you two.'' Ann scowled.
The young man harrumphed ''Fine, have it your way.'' To his friend, he added. ''They're just a bunch of brats, leave them be.''
Ryuji wasn't even fazed at the insult ''Idiots...''
Ann exhaled ''Ah, just tune him out. I meant what I said anyway, I'd take being with you guys anytime.''
''Oh yeah?'' The boy looked pleased. ''Can't say I'm urpried they came to hit you-you look pretty hot, Ann.''
The girl felt her face grow warm ''Th-thanks...''
Makoto began to smile as she made to speak but then she spotted Yusuke coming closer with a pair of lobsters in hand ''What're you doing with those?''
''I happened to spot them earlier and I immediately fell in love with their sublime forms...''
Futaba joined them as Namine walked over ''Ooh, can we cook them?''
''Absolutely not! They are for my aquarium.''
''What's the point? There's nothing special about how they look.'' Futaba countered
Yusuke frowned ''It seems you have poor taste after all.''
She glared back, offended. Where did he get off? "How do you plan to keep those things anyway? Won't it be tougher considering your situation?"
"Yeah, dude, you've barely got enough room in the dorm with all your art equipment." Ryuji added.
"Why am I not surprised?" Morgana sighed. "There's how much money they must have cost too. Come on, Yusuke, this isn't even practical..."
"It'll be all right. I have it all planned." His tone broke no argument.
The cat rolled his eyes "Well, we tried..." Ryuji and Futaba appeared equally exasperated.
''Okay, since he clearly made up his mind...Let's see what else we can do to have fun.'' Namine decided.
And so they took part in activities here and there, ranging from volleyball to the banana boat and so on.
Yusuke kept having trouble with the lobsters until a fed up Makoto grabbed a couple of their big plastic containers to leave them there.
Ryuji's eye twitched as he held the hand one of them had bitten when he tried to help Yusuke before ''Not cooking them really seems like a waste.''
Makoto sighed ''At this point, I'm inclined to agree.''
Seeing how the sun was beginning to set, the group began preparing to leave. ''Futaba seemed fine in the crowd too, so it looks like she's overcome her last exercise.'' Ann remarked.
''Hey, Futaba, we're goin' home. Stop standin' around and help us.'' Ryuji called.
But the girl wasn't listening, she leaned on her knees ''You know...All this time I thought that it was my fault that my mom died. It's because everyone said I killed her. Everyone looked at me, thinking I was a murderer. I ended up hating this world. That's why I shut myself in and covered my ears. I wished...I wished mom would come back to life. Sometimes, I'd wake up and think it was all a dream but nothing had changed in the world. That's why I'd sleep again, it'd be a repeat of that...''
''Futaba...'' Ann frowned, that had to feel terrible.
''I loved my mom. I wanted to become like her. How she'd work late into the night. How she'd wake up early and make me a boxed lunch every day. How she'd do her best to further her research. How she'd scold me for peeking at her notes.''
''It was cognitive psience, wasn't it?'' Makoto recalled.
'''The cognitive world can become distorted through desires. If it becomes distorted, a person begins exhibiting problematic behavior in reality. That cognitive world disappears when you remove its core and further problematic actions stop.'' Futaba still remembered the notes she had seen and the tidbits Wakaba had been willing to share. She didn't want that to change.
''That sounds like the Palaces...your mom really did figure all that out?'' Ann tilted her head.
''Yeah, a lot of that made sense after what you all told me about the Metaverse. I remember seeing some of her notes but now I really understand them after it actually happened to me.'' Futaba mused. ''All I thought about was my mom. I was trapped in a cognitive labyrinth. I couldn't get out of it. There was nothing I could do by myself.''
''That's why you asked us to steal your heart? That's a huge jump in logic in so many ways!'' Ryuji exclaimed
''At first I didn't believe the rumors about the Phantom Thieves...that they steal hearts. But I overheard you accidentally. I learned you were near me.''
''Overheard? Ah, the bug...so why were you listening in on Leblanc in the first place?'' Yusuke wondered.
''I had to keep an eye on Sojiro, make sure he was actually working.''
Ryuji arched an eye ''Talk about an awful hobby...''
''You talked about stealing hearts. When I heard that, I was so happy that I jumped up and down. I thought, maybe the Phantom Thieves could cure my heart.''
''You could've just told us from the start...'' Ann pointed out.
''You might've been wary of me if I asked out of nowhere. And besides, you could've been bad guys. That's why I cautiously got in contact with you. I checked many times to see how you'd react.''
''Yes, you had us twisted around your little finger.'' Makoto stated.
''That's for sure.'' Namine agreed, Futaba snickered.
''But, Futaba, you didn't talk to anyone besides Boss for a long time, right? You must've needed a lot of courage to contact the Phantom Thieves.'' Ann remarked.
''...There were two reasons for it. One was Medjed's taunt. The Phantom Thieves were so pitiful, it frustrated me. I would've been in trouble if they got distracted too...''
''Indeed, you were our only hope.'' Yusuke thought back.
Futaba went on ''The other was what I heard through wire tapping Leblanc. Sojiro was being blamed with lies, like abusing me...He was threatened to spill everything about Mom...''
''Talk about makin' shit up.'' Ryuji frowned, Makoto looked pained as she thought of the person behind that threat.
''It made me sad and it hurt. I thought, I have to save Sojiro. I gotta do something.'' The hacker finished.
''So, that's why...'' Morgana trailed off.
''But the Phantom Thieves...I didn't think you guys would take such risks for me. That you'd worry about me so much...'' She glanced at Namine. ''...that you'd even go so far as visit me time and again to offer encouragement and support, you were just about the most good and kind person I've ever even heard of in the longest time...I'm sorry I acted like I doubted you guys.''
''Do you believe in us now?'' Morgana inquired.
''Yeah, I can tell. You're all really good people. That's why I have a request. Let me join your team.''
''There's nothin' to join. You're already one of us.'' Ryuji returned.
''Really?...'' Futaba's expression changed. ''...I'll be honest. Changing people's hearts isn't my goal. I want to learn what happened to my mom...The reason why she was killed.''
He blinked ''Killed...?''
''Boss said something about that too.'' Namine recalled. ''He couldn't be sure of anything since the case was ruled as a suicide but he knew something was up.''
''Go figure.'' Futaba nodded. ''If anyone would notice something wrong with that situation, it'd be Sojiro. He would know Mom wouldn't do that...It was written in her notes. Should the self in the cognitive world die, the self in the real world would lose consciousness...''
Yusuke arched an eye ''Is this about mental shutdowns?''
''Then...going by what Crow was telling us...'' Morgana started.
''This might be related to the guy he's after.'' Ann agreed.
''The black masked criminal...'' Yusuke crossed his arms.
''I don't like pursuing the line of thought but perhaps your mother's Shadow was...'' Makoto frowned.
''I don't know for sure.'' Futaba guessed where she was going with this. ''But right before my mom died, she didn't seem right. No matter how much I talked to her, she wouldn't answer back. And looking back, she didn't jump into the road. It was more like she collapsed and fell in...That's why I thought what was written in the notes was real and looked into it. I read books, checked theses that were released online...I even snuck into the networks of various research labs to look at their classified data.''
''So you were indeed seeking the truth all along...'' Yusuke trailed off.
''That's why you're good at hacking...what kind of brain do you have?'' Ryuji shook his head.
Futaba frowned ''But I didn't figure anything out. My mom's research was nowhere to be found. She was killed by someone and her research was treated like it never existed. I bet it's them...Those adults in the black suits who read the fake suicide note. I'll never forgive them.''
''Futaba...''
''If I stay with you guys, I think I can find out more about that world. Then eventually, it might lead to those men in black. It's a super personal reason why I wanna join you...Is that okay? Or would I just be dead weight?'' She added uncertainly.
''No chance of you being dead weight.'' Namine assured. ''We're all in this for our reasons of our own too, we'd be glad to have you.''
''That's good...''
''If anything, you're dependable, ain't' that right, Mona?'' Ryuji asked.
The cat bristled ''Why are you looking at me? Are you trying to say I'm inadequate?!''
''Well, she was more useful than you, as a matter of fact.''
''Hey, that's inexcusable!'' The two started arguing.
"Okay, that's enough." Namine chided "We've all done our parts, saying any of us was useless is stupid and uncalled for, okay?"
Makoto shook her head as the two turned away from each other ''That is what our Phantom Thieves are like but I hope we get along Futaba.''
She smiled ''Thanks.''
''Let's leave those two be...why don't we lose no time and decide on Futaba's codename?'' Ann suggested.
''What's that?''
''It's not cool if we called each other by our real names.'' Ryuji returned.
"Originally it started because they had no idea what kind of effect our real names would have in the palaces," Yusuke corrected. "I believe it's growing to be a tradition now. Joker, Skull, Mona, Panther, Queen and I'm Fox.''
''In Futaba's case...'' Makoto started. ''...Hacker wouldn't be right, would it?''
"It's a bit too literal..." Namine shook her head.
''Mech?'' Ann offered.
"See previous statement." Futaba droned.
''PC?'' Yusuke tried.
''No.''
''Something like Goggles?'' Morgana tried. "Or maybe Pharaoh considering the palace?"
''All of those suggestions are lousy. You've got no taste, kitty.'' Futaba teased
''Haha, in your face.'' Ryuji laughed.
''You really don't get much room to talk.'' Ann pointed out.
''Seriously, ignore him, Morgana. The ones he came up were pretty bad. Sexy cat, Shoulder pads and Aburage, right?'' Namine deadpanned, the cat snickered back and nodded.
''...Yeah, he's even worse.'' Futaba decided.
''Any idea what you want the name to be?'' Namine wondered.
The girl stopped to think for a few seconds ''...Oracle.''
''That does sound fitting.'' Yusuke agreed and some of the others nodded.
''It's settled then! Oracle it is. With my vision, I'll show you all the way to victory.'' Futaba beamed.
''Sounds great.'' Ann smiled.
''Then, Futaba will be Oracle.'' Ryuji grinned.
''But man, I never even dreamed that the rumored Phantom Thieves would be so close!''
''Same goes to you.'' Morgana returned. ''To think you'd be the daughter of a Metaverse researcher...talk about a mysterious fate...''
Later on, the three were welcomed back by Sojiro, who had been pleased to see the pictures. Eventually, he and Futaba headed back to the Sakura residence while Namine and Morgana settled down for the night.
Morgana twitched in his sleep, tensing as he had an odd dream. He was in what appeared to be Mementos, but it seemed mostly empty. Before he quite knew it, shadows gathered before him, forming what looked like his doppelganger with glowing yellow eyes...
He sat up with a gasp ''...That black thing was me?! That can't be true...I'm supposed to human...I should be...If we get rid of the distortion in the depths of Mementos, I'm sure-I'm sure it'll all be fine!''
''...Mona?'' The cat turned, seeing Namine sit up.
The cat stiffened for a moment ''Sorry, did I wake you?''
''Mm...That's okay, what's wrong?''
''Oh...'' The feline thought fast. ''...um, I absorbed all the sunlight because I'm black, you know? My sunburns hurt so I woke up.''
''Why didn't you say so before? I didn't know cats get sunburns but we could've found something to help...''
''Aw, never mind, it'll be fine.'' Morgana felt bad for lying. ''We can leave it for later. Thanks though.'' He paused. ''By the way, it's not like I'm bothered by this or anything...But hypothetically speaking okay? What would you do if I turned out to be some weird...thing?''
''It wouldn't bother me.'' It had been something she considered before but after spending this much time with the cat, she didn't want to let that change things. ''I think all that happened lately just leaves one with an open mind. We're ready for loads of surprises. After all, you're still you, our friend.''
''You mean it...?'' Morgana sounded hopeful. ''...If what I saw from earlier is true, is it OK for me to stay with the Phantom Thieves...? And even if I'm with the team, I'm useless at the moment.''
Namine looked confused; she couldn't hear him since he was so quiet.
''Don't worry, it's nothing...'' Morgana said quickly. ''...Well I've gotten pretty used to my life as a cat too. And to be frank, this attic isn't bad either. Then again, I can't wait to turn back into a human so I can move out. Maybe I'll live a life of luxury on a suite on the highest floor...''
''Hehe, well shoot for the moon!''
''Right?'' Morgana nodded. ''But rather than becoming some weird thing, maybe staying as a cat isn't so bad either...Hey, Namine?'' The girl blinked. ''You and me made a deal...so I can stay here, right?''
''Sure. I'm glad you're here.'' Namine smiled.
''Really?...Don't forget what you just said okay?'' Morgana stretched. ''Come on, let's hurry up and get to sleep.''
''Mm, good night.''
''Good night.''
After finishing a shift in the flower shop the following day, Namine was invited along with Morgana, Futaba and Shiho by Ann to a cake buffet.
''Whoa, that's some selection...'' The cat's eyes widened at all the variety.
''Amazing, right?'' Ann smiled. ''This place has so much on their menu; it's hard not to over eat...Operation: Eat a bit of everything!''
''Wait, really?'' Namine clarified.
''Yeah, it's quality over quantity!''
''I don't think that's how you're supposed to use that...'' Morgana trailed off.
Futaba raised an eye ''Weren't you just telling us before how you really were keeping an eye on your weight?''
''T-that's different!'' Ann's response was immediate ''There's nothing wrong with treating myself, I'll make up for it.''
''I knew something was strange when you kept insisting we had to try and come sometime.'' Shiho looked a bit exasperated. ''You want us to make sure you don't eat too much, right?''
''T-that's...'' Ann started when Namine and Futaba started to laugh. ''...hey!''
''S-sorry but you should've seen that look on your face.'' Namine smiled.
Futaba snickered in agreement ''You've got her all figured out, huh, Shiho?''
The girl smiled at her ''Well, we've been friends for this long after all.''
Ann gave them an unamused stare but they merely smiled in response, making her roll her eyes ''Ugh, okay, fine. I've reflected on my actions...and I won't make the same mistake again!''
Neither of her friends were convinced and Futaba wound up voicing why ''You just said you'd eat a bit of everything. Sounds like overdoing it to me.''
''I won't...'' She faltered. ''...can you keep an eye on me? As long as you do, I think my resolve won't crumble.''
Namine and Shiho exchanged amused looks while Futaba grinned ''All right, let's go then.'' The first replied.
In the end, it turned out to be a good time and another sign to show just how well Futaba was learning to adjust in society. While the burgundy haired girl headed to Leblanc, Futaba stopped at home.
''Huh, that's nice to hear.'' The barista smiled when she briefed him about the situation as he prepared curry. ''It still amazes me to see all this progress. Before I could hardly get her to eat but now she's enjoying the curry just like she used to..she thinks it's delicious.''
''It really is, Futaba may be right when she said you've got people addicted.''
''You don't say...? You really do have pretty good taste if you understand how incredible that curry is. Now then...there's something I should probably tell you. Here, take a seat, I'll pour you some coffee...''
''Remember how I said this recipe was developed by a scientific genius?'' Sojiro began.
''Yeah, the friend you told me about...Futaba's mom, right?'' Namine returned.
''Right.'' He replied. ''That curry is one of the last remaining connections she has to Wakaba.''
''I see...that's why you were...'' Now she had a new understanding of why he seemed so dedicated and meticulous in making it and why Futaba liked it so much.
''Mmhm...I first met Wakaba when she was doing work the government. She was real trouble, let me tell you. Logic prevailed over emotion for her and she had an intricate knowledge of the human mind. I thought my pick up lines were the best in town but not a single on worked on her...heh...'' He smiled wistfully.
Namine looked curious ''Was she like Futaba?''
''You could say that. It was never clear what she was thinking...so I had a hard time trying to keep up with her.'' He admitted. ''Men are idiots though...We spend our time chasing things we can't get. Wakaba rejected me time and time again...but there was one instance I managed to surprise her.''
''Heehh, what was that?'' Namine asked with interest.
''The first time I gave her a plate of my homemade curry. The very next day she came asking all about the ingredients and what goes into the cooking process...Then a few days later, she handed me a scientifically enhanced version of my recipe.'' Sojiro paused. ''It was incredible. She used my curry as the basis but it was miles better than anything I made. Curry was Wakaba's specialty since. Naturally, Futaba grew to love it in no time. But then after Wakaba's accident...Futaba stopped eating it entirely.'' His expression darkened. ''The flavor would make her remember the pain...I've heard even small things like and even the sight and smell can bring back memories too.''
''...I think that's true.'' Namine began. ''I know the feeling...''
''Yeah, I figured you'd understand.'' Sojiro knew perfectly well what this was about, since he was also aware that it was because of her old hobby.
He imagined her feelings about it to be mixed now, something like that wasn't easy to resolve. They'd just managed to convince her to sing for them. He had overheard her telling Ryuji that Futaba was part of the reason she did it, which when he thought about it, made sense. They couldn't go on trying to convince the girl to break out of her comfort zone if they didn't try the same. It just made his respect of the girl rise.
''Still...that curry was the only point of connection I had with Futaba. That's why when I took her in. I vowed to keep this recipe until she could eat it again.'' He paused.
''...I think you're doing really well.'' She stated. ''Before, you said that there wasn't much you did for her but that's wrong. You make for a better family than her actual family.''
''Heh, I don't know about that...'' Sojiro smiled. ''...you had something of an influence on things there too. She's told me plenty you know? You really are doing a lot for her.'' Namine smiled back. ''The whole idea of pairing the curry with a nice brew is thanks to Wakaba's refinement too. Despite how introverted she seemed, she was extraordinarily perceptive of the people around her...I never even told her of my love of coffee but she figured it out just by looking at me.''
''From what you've both been saying, Isshiki-san sounds like a great person.'' The girl mused.
''She was. By then, I realized she was out of my league.'' He admitted. ''Not like I really stood a chance to begin with. She already had Futaba after all. This might seem like any old curry to most but there's tons of emotions crammed inside. So, um...make sure you keep the tradition going.''
The girl held back a laugh, knowing he was getting embarrassed ''Okay...''
She looked back at her phone as it buzzed, taking out to see a new message on screen. It was from Futaba and mentioned how the girl felt up to go to Akihabara and was in fact on her way now.
''Wait, is this okay? Going there on her own?'' Morgana wondered.
Namine bit her lip, Sojiro noticed her distracted state ''What's wrong?'' His expression changed into one of alarm when she explained. ''...I hope this isn't a step too far. Akihabara can be pretty crowded, wonder if she's okay.''
It went unsaid that so far his daughter had been relying on Namine and her friends for her 'training' so he feared she might jumping the gun.
''It's okay, we're going to check up on her.'' The girl stood.
''Thanks.''
''Man, Boss was right; this place is definitely crowded and even bigger than I thought...'' Morgana stared around.
''Wonder where Futaba is?'' Namine muttered as they walked around.
The former was the first to spot her ''Hey wait, Namine, she's over there!''
She turned, indeed finding the girl talking to a policeman. One look at Futaba showed there was trouble. She appeared on the verge of tears.
''Futaba!''
The girl started and turned around, her expression turning into one of relief when she saw the two. She proceeded to grab Namine's arm and stay close to her.
''Do you know this girl?'' The policeman asked.
Namine nodded ''She's a friend. We were supposed to meet up here.''
''...Hm, I see. Very well.'' The man left.
''What happened, Futaba?'' asked Morgana.
''Sorry...'' The girl lowered her head. ''...I really thought I could do this...but I guess I froze up before I knew it. The policeman came and all those people started staring, I just sort of curled up into a ball. I thought I'd be over this after the beach...'' She bit her lip. ''...this is lousy, I couldn't even buy a game on my own.''
''Hey, don't say that. We're still going to help you through this.'' Namine assured kindly.
''Th-thanks...you know, it's funny, I already feel calmer since you're here. It's like you're my key item or something, Namine.''
The older girl blinked ''Key item?''
''Yeah, you know, in games with big time quests don't they usually have some sort of real special thing that helps the questers get through it? That's what it seems like with you!''
Namine giggled ''That's an interesting way to phrase it but that suits you. Okay, guess I'll be your key item then.''
''Yes!'' Futaba grinned. ''You won't regret this, I'll get better and I'll make sure to work hard for everyone's sake. I may be the newest Phantom Thief but I'll be super reliable! ''
''I'll be counting on you then.''
''Right!'' Futaba gave a mock salute. ''Back at you!''
I am thou, thou art I
Thou hast acquired a new vow
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh thy chains of captivity.
With the birth of the Hermit Arcana,
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power...
And we're done!
I know Futaba's arcana went a little differently in canon but given what went down here, I think this works well enough. I couldn't fit the visit to that sushi place here but I might do it in the next chapter.
As it's been mentioned before, the issue with Namine's hobby will be resolved but it's going to take some time and effort. I already planned how it's going to work out but I think you'll like it. I always figured that if anyone would know could relate to Futaba being passed around her relatives like that, it would be Akechi. I know it's not exactly the same thing but the point is, it's enough to relate to each other on some level. Even then, they both had some help with Sojiro and the person who helped Akechi over three years ago. I am going to delve deeper into that subject down the line, there's no fun in revealing it all now.
Well, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. 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 5)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 5)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank 9)
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)
Sakura Futaba (Hermit Rank 1)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 1)