''...That was random.''
Namine nodded to Morgana's comment, feeling just as puzzled. Since they had agreed to go to Mementos today, the two had stopped at Untouchable to see about getting some equipment they were missing.
However things were tense in the shop as they found a couple of men in some kind of confrontation with Iwai, who had apparently decided to take advantage of their presence and discreetly gave Namine a small bag and quickly sent the girl on her way. When the men tried to intervene, Iwai had smoothly stopped them and cited that Namine was there for her own buisness and it had nothing to do with them.
''Those guys said they were from the police, right? I wonder what they were after.'' Things had gone down so fast back there that she had practically no time to react. She didn't know much about Iwai but the man didn't seem to be doing anything wrong.
''You should probably go and talk to him some other time.'' Morgana suggested.
''Mm, that'd be for the best...'' Namine blinked when the cat began poking the bag in her hand as he walked beside her, trying to look into it. ''...what're you doing?''
''I'm curious about this thing, why'd he even give it to us like that? Don't you want to know?''
''Yeah, but...'' She bit her lip. ''...from the way he was acting, it seemed important. I don't feel right pushing into his buisness.''
''Well, if you say so...'' Morgana decided to drop the matter for now. ''...so what did Futaba want with all your phones yesterday? She never said.''
The girl had been oddly persistent when they met up the day before and she'd taken their phones to the Sakura residence before coming back twenty minutes later. He had never gotten around to asking when they'd immediately gotten back to plan things for today.
''Oh, she fired up a program she came up with to protect our security. You know, since she could hack into our phones, it could've happened again.''
''Nice!'' The feline exclaimed, impressed with the hacker's foresight. ''That's a really good idea. I was just thinking on how we should talk about our work as Phantom Thieves more in person...''
Namine and Morgana passed the station, which was when the latter picked up on a change in the atmosphere.
''Hey, looks like something's going on.''
The burgundy haired girl soon realized what he was talking about as people here and there were muttering, some none too loudly as they stared in a certain direction.
''Look at him, all high and mighty even with all the crap he's been saying...''
''Tell me about it, I don't even know why he was so popular. Now just watching him on TV irritates me. Of course, he won't admit that he's wrong...''
The two soon realized that their attention was on none other than Akechi, who was making heading to one of the benches.
This certainly emphasized what the detective mentioned before-how he seemed to be unwelcome in many places. The success of the Phantom Thieves had affected his reputation badly. Morgana wondered if he could hear those people, if he did he certainly showed no sign of it.
''I wish the Phantom Thieves would target him next. Maybe it'd knock him off that pedestal.'' Another person sneered
Namine frowned while Morgana's eyes narrowed, what were they even thinking? They wouldn't change a person's heart just because they didn't agree with them. That way they would be no better from the people they were fighting to stand up against. Both thieves unknowingly agreed that there was no way they would stoop that low.
The girl felt bad though, this treatment reminded her far too much of how the people in her hometown were around her. She believed that what they did as thieves was important, they were trying to stand up for what was right after all. But their actions also had the unexpected side-effect of causing this kind of thing...
''...This kind of thing makes me see why you really don't care about fame, Namine.'' Morgana had to admit as they made their way to their destination. Public opinion sure was fickle.
''Mm, it's really...'' The girl started.
''Ah, so that was the two of you.''
The two turned around to see Akechi approaching them ''Hello. I thought I noticed Morgana. You really take him all sorts of places, don't you?''
''Well, he gets bored and I did promise Boss to look out for him when he let me keep him.'' Namine returned easily. ''Besides, I think you can tell by now-he's pretty well behaved.''
''That's true.''
It didn't take Morgana long to pick up on the increased mutters and attention coming their way, making him hide a frown. Jeez, why don't those people give it a rest?
''Ah, my apologies, Hyakuya-san. It seems they've got their eye on you too now.'' Akechi remarked.
''It's fine. Are you okay though? If this is any indication of what you mentioned before...''
He seemed a bit surprise for a moment before giving an easy smile ''I appreciate the concern but it's all right. Being in the public's eye tends to draw this kind of thing. I was warned back when I was first interviewed but I never thought it'd be like this. Well, opinion about me and the police to extent has dwindled greatly while the Phantom Thieves continue to succeed. Given all the fear Medjed caused, I suppose it's understandable that people would count on the ones who stopped them.''
''I guess so but this still seems too much...''
''Seeing as how I've been one of their main detractors for this long, some backlash was to be expected. I thought getting fame might have helped but something like this could also happen...'' He trailed off, his tone leaving the two curious but he apparently had no intetion of elaborating. ''...given all of this I'm glad you're so open-minded as to hear me out, Hyakuya-san.''
''Well, I still think the Phantom Thieves are just but I figure it's best to wait until you see the truth yourself-it really has more meaning that way.''
''I can't argue with that point.'' The detective returned, understanding her sentiment. ''Though I do wonder if it will happen-there's no telling what the Phantom Thieves will do next after all. But I suppose we'll just have to wait and see.''
When the train he had apparently been waiting for came, Akechi bid them farewell and left. Morgana walked closer ''I'm still having trouble relating him to the guy from TV...but if this is what he's really like then that's good.''
''Yeah, I really don't like this though...'' Namine admitted as she picked him up to help avoid the oncoming people and they kept walking. ''...they actually want the Phantom Thieves to change his heart just because he thinks they're bad?''
''Well, we both know it won't go down. I like what you said about him seeing the truth though. I wonder if there's a way to make it happen...''
When Namine accepted Hifumi's suggestion of a match, she definitely wasn't expecting what came of it...
''Vanguard of my Togo Kingdom, go forth to the front lines! Trample them all!''
Namine had to admit, she was really lost. Where was this coming from?
Hifumi's eyes narrowed, her tone might as well have belonged to a different person as she went on ''You think to protect yourself with that paltry defense? Hahaha, it's useless! Awaken, dragon! Let your shadowy hell fire consume them all! Dark Inferno Rook!''
Morgana blinked twice, just where had the quiet girl from earlier gone? She had a rather...fierce look in her eye that might as well have belonged to someone else.
''Can you hear them? The wailing soilders throughout the battlefield. With an incompetent queen, a soldier cannot show his true bravery, time for you to suffer! At last, everything is in place for the release of my true power! I summon forth the forbidden power that shall bring your end, Ultimate Excalibur Attack!'' Hifumi looked satisfied. ''Check.''
''Ah, I did it again...'' Hifumi sighed after a few moments.
Namine blinked, this was even more of a surprise ''Wait...you mean this is usual?''
''Yes. It's an embarrassing habit I have in matches. I tend to get very aggressive. Like I assume the role of a queen...''
''That explains that...'' Namine started. ''...well, it's interesting.''
''I find it, a bit...well...'' Hifumi fumbled, unsure of what to say. ''...My father had me do image training exercises when I was younger to help with the rules. I began to view the shogi board as my own kingdom. I had fun coming up with stories and strategies for my, um, subjects. I've heard that people make fun of me on the internet.''
''They do?''
''Yes. They think I'm weird, or crazy...or an otaku.'' The girl admitted. ''I can't blame them...I think I'm weird too...''
''Try not to mind them.'' Personally, she thought that was uncalled for. It may be odd but they shouldn't talk about others like that. ''You're pretty good at this, you know? Way I see it, everyone has their own quirks. Nothing wrong with that.''
''Your positivity is...a welcome relief.'' Hifumi smiled. ''I may be able to learn more from our matches than I thought.''
''Glad I can help.''
''Ah, that's right. I've been wanting to tell you.'' The first went on. ''Do you read weekly magazines? I'm...doing a photo shoot for one.''
''Whoa, really? When's it coming out?''
''Later this week, I just wanted you to know so you don't be surprised if you come across it.''
''...That doesn't really seem like your thing.'' Namine recalled how the girl reacted when the mentions of her reputation came up before. Heck, she had almost withdrawn into herself when Haru first recognized her...
''Is it that obvious? I am very reluctant to do it. But...maybe if I can draw more attention to shogi, it'll become more popular. At least that's the justification I'm using...'' Hifumi trailed off. ''The truth is, I have an interview tonight, so let's end here for today.''
Soon after that, they met met up with the rest of the team and went to Mementos, this time with Futaba joining them.
The hacker around looked around the subway station curiously ''So this is Mementos...those tunnels sure seem endless. How far does this place go?''
''We're still trying to find out. But given that it's effectively the public's place, it'd be understandably huge.'' Queen replied.
''Hmm...'' The girl tilted her head. ''...Lemme try something. Persona!''
In a flash of blue flames, the newest Phantom Thief was riding the UFO shaped being and she proceeded to scan ahead.
Her eyes widened as Necronomicon displayed a big map before her. She could see a general scope of the area and it looked huge ''Oh, now I see what you guys were talking about! There's this really long hall that looked like it has a big door but now the door's gone.''
''So a new area has been unlocked.'' Fox stated.
''That figures, we've been pretty famous since the Medjed situation ended.'' Mona smiled. This meant they were a step closer to his goal, the depths of this realm.
''But damn, you can pick stuff like that up so quickly? Nice, Oracle!'' Skull exclaimed.
''Heh, just giving it my best shot. Come on, let's go!'' The girl grinned.
''So I was talking to Skull about our Personas before we go here...'' Panther started to say. ''...I've been pretty curious ever since Captain Kidd evolved...''
''Oh yeah, Panther, you were interested in understanding more about Personas.'' Mona recalled.
She nodded ''I guess through all that's happened I didn't really look back into that but it's been on the back of my mind for a while. But it's interesting, we awaken them after facing our shadows, the parts of ourselves which we keep hidden, right? Finding out about Seiten Taisei has me wondering how this evolution things works.''
''It's definitely something to think about.'' Queen mused. ''I'm just guessing but from what Mona says, Personas are a power of the heart. It might need some sort of trigger like our initial awakening but something like that evolution seems to come after we grow and come into ourselves so to speak.''
''As expected of you, Queen. I couldn't have worded it better myself.'' Mona admitted.
''So then Skull's grown up?'' A note of teasing entered Panther's tone as she went on. ''I don't see it. He still acts like the same old hothead.''
''Agreed.'' Mona chipped in.
''Oi!''
''You're kinda proving her point, you know.'' Oracle snickered.
Skull grumbled under his breath while Fox spoke up ''Perhaps that isn't quite accurate-it's hard to think of anyone who dealt with experiences like ours and hasn't changed even a little.''
''Yeah, give him some credit, you guys. Skull's definitely changing for the better.'' Joker added, remembering how the boy handled the situation with Yamauchi and the track team for instance. ''Besides, Fox is right, I'm pretty sure we've all changed in some way even if we don't realize it.''
Skull spared them a grateful look before moving things along. ''So what happened with you guys on the way? Mona was saying somethin' about a commotion?''
With that, Joker and Mona proceeded to tell them about the earlier encounter with Akechi. They were pleased to find that the others shared their mindset, not one of them wanted to even entertain taking the public's suggestion.
''Saying to change his heart just because of that...it's too much.'' Queen stated.
''Indeed, while I can't say I agree with his views on justice, expecting such a thing is absurd.'' Fox added.
''Yeah...still, that kinda explains the stuff I found about him online...'' Oracle mused.
Queen's eyes narrowed ''I'd say it's a sign that we'll just have to work hard and prove ourselves to everyone. So they will see what we're really about.'' The rest nodded back. ''Oracle, which way to our target?''
They arrived at another gate, which took them to their first target, Makigami Kazuya...
''He looks so...bad.'' Skull said after a moment as their eyes landed on the red haired boy who appeared to be around their age, but his eyes were glowing a wicked gold color.
''Well, I guess that's natural, he's the boss of that crime ring and even beat up his own brother...'' Oracle trailed off.
''We have to do something about this, let's go.'' Panther said.
''Me? Am I the one behind the burglary ring? Yeah, that's right!'' The Shadow smirked. ''I convinced my friends to do some part time work for me. But I'm not in the wrong!''
''Trying to make excuses now? You should be ashamed of yourself.'' Fox stated.
''No, I just meant it as a way to have a little fun but those got idiots got so cocky! And now I'm the one who's in trouble, dammit! Why do bad things always happen to me?!'' Shadow Kazuya snapped.
''What're you talking about?'' Queen demanded.
''Ever since I was a kid, school, society...everyone treated me like I was dirt!'' He cried. ''My little brother was the smart one. Mom and Dad's favorite...they couldn't care less about me...How can you expect me to live a normal life? I'm rebelling against this shitty society!''
''You think violence and crime are rebellion? Don't be stupid.'' Skull retorted.
''What did you say? You guys are thieves, too!''
''We're completely different from people like you.'' Joker stated.
''And we're proud of it!'' Mona added.
''Don't think you're better than me, idiots! Such a condescending gaze...I'll crush you!''
He turned into a Mithras Shadow, growling ''I'll deal with you pests right now. Come!''
He raised an arm, in a second, he was joined by an Oni and and Onmoraki. The latter proceeded to rampage, its wild strikes nailing everyone in the vicnity. Laughing, the Mithras cast Marakunda as the Onomoraki lashed out to hit Queen, who had been about to punch the enemy boss.
That soon turned out to be a pattern, as whatever they did, both the Oni and Onmoraki intervened to protect Shadow Kazuya. Even worse, it turned out the enemy boss could heal them.
''This is really getting annoying...'' Panther scowled as she was forced to get away from the Onmoraki before she could finish casting a spell.
The enemy boss tried to up their strength but she put that to halt by using Carmen's Dekaja. This however, brought the three's attention to her and the two lackeys while the Mithras cast Magarula. Panther grunted as she tried to defend herself and a second later, the two shadows were rammed by Seiten Taisei, who blasted them with lightning. At the same time, Oracle was able to use her Persona's ability to give them all a well-timed boost.
Skull joined her ''Hey, you all right?''
She nodded ''Thanks! Carmen, Maragi!''
The Mithras jumped to dodge the flames and made to cast some healing magic again. Picking up on that, Fox rushed in to strike only for the shadow to change tack and conjure a bright light that blinded the artist, leaving him dizzy. It then cast Magarula, nailing him, Queen and Joker.
Mona, who had been able to dodge the spell smoothly, jumped closer to Fox and gave him medicine to snap him out of it. Fox nodded gratefully before the two proceeded to strike the Oni in tandem. The Mithras turned its eye on Joker and Queen, trying to blind them but since they had seen the act already, they were able to avoid that.
''Everyone, I figured it out! The big lug doesn't have weaknesses but the bird's weak to gun attacks and Makigami's weakness is curse magic!'' Oracle called.
''In that case...'' Panther smirked and aimed her gun, firing a round of bullets that quickly knocked the Onmoraki down. At the same time, Skull and Queen turned their attention to the Oni, summoning their Personas again to blast it with lightning and nuclear magic. The force of the attacks threw it down and Panther took the chance to finish it off with a few quick strikes of her whip.
''Che, that won't stop me! I can just get some more!'' The Mithras snarled.
''Not happening-Arsene!'' The gentleman thief flew out of the azure flames, casting an Eiga spell on command. The Shadow cried out as it fell and the party launched an All-Out attack, leaving it very weak.
''Eat this!'' Skull cried as he and Fox struck again for the finishing touch, throwing the shadow down. In moments, it turned back into the human form.
''D-dammit...'' He managed. ''...Just what are you Phantom Thieves anyway? This is impossible...I get it now. You must have heard from my brother.''
''...So you already know how he feels.'' Fox remarked, his brother had been the one who posted the request after all.
''...He did this...for me...'' He held a key out. ''That's the key to the chest in my room. Give it to my brother...You're supposed to be the good kind of thieves, right...?''
''What?! Why would...'' Skull sighed and took the item, deciding it couldn't hurt. ''...anything you want to tell him?''
''...I guess, burn what's inside or throw it away.'' He started sobbing as he faded into light.
''So people like that guy have distorted desires but not enough to form a Palace, right?'' Oracle clarified.
''Right, we take requests from the Phan-Site depending on the situation.'' Panther replied. ''You wouldn't believe some of the ridiculous stuff people put up, like one of them was from a kid in school asking to change the heart of someone who wouldn't pay him back.''
The hacker furrowed her brow ''That does sound dumb...and things go down like that because people can't speak up or do something against those oppressors.''
''That, or they're just in a rough spot.'' Fox added, thinking of Nakanohara for a moment. ''Sometimes you just need a helping hand out of trouble and for those people, it'd be us.''
''I gotcha...'' Oracle wondered how it would change things if people realized the Phantom Thieves' true intentions in doing all this. They weren't looking for personal gain, but just to help others and give them strength to face their troubles. Heck, even when she had threatened them, they had really gone out of their way to help her and it was really thanks to them that was she was so much better off now. That she could really live her life again. That was all the more reason she was glad to have joined them.
''Guys, heads up!'' Mona called and in seconds they saw some shadows materialize in their way. They were immediately ejected and braced themselves for battle as an Anzu, two Arabahakis and a Decarabia appeared.
One of the Arabhakis proceeded to cast Makrakarn over the Anzu and Mona warned them that this would block magic before striking it. Fox blasted it with weak ice magic which he knew would be nullified by the shield, thus taking care of the issue.
Remembering the shadow's weakness from Oracle's Palace, Queen summoned Johanna and blasted the enemies with a Mafrei. It managed to knock all the enemies besides the Decarabia down. Aforementioned shadow proceeded to strike them all with a Megidola spell before they could keep the offensive up. This gave the rest of the shadows enough time to recover and the star shaped being cast an Agilao spell on Mona, which burned him. Yelping, the feline thief quickly summoned Zorro to heal himself.
The two Arhabakis attacked Joker and Panther while the Anzu shadow cast Garula on Fox. Skull called upon Seiten Taisei to tackle them with Swift Strike while Queen ran up to attack one of the Arhabaki, only for it to jump back. Undeterred, the girl switched targets to the Decarabia nearby, forcing it back with a few punches. The shadow retaliated with a Megidola once more but the party was able to defend or dodge accordingly.
When the shadows attacked once again, Fox summoned Goemon to strike them with ice magic while Mona made use of Zorro's lucky punch, nailing the Decarabia and throwing it down. ''Here's our chance!''
Joker nodded ''Queen, you ready to finish this?''
''Absolutely.'' The first summoned Mithras and Queen caught on, calling upon Johanna a second later before they both called out.
''Mafreila!"
Both Personas launched the spells on cue, combining for devastating damage that finished off the rest of the enemies.
''Way to go!'' Panther smiled.
The group went on their way and a short while later, returned to the real world...
Futaba stretched once they left the station ''I'm kinda tired now...is this what it's always like for you guys?''
''Well, consider it your initiation.'' Morgana hopped off a ledge and walked alongside them.
''You did pretty good today.'' Ryuji praised, making her smile when the others agreed.
''I have to admit, your Persona is unique, Futaba. I don't think we've seen one with anything like Necronomicon's ablities even with Namine being able to use multiple Personas.'' Yusuke remarked.
''Yeah, what's up with that anyway?'' The hacker asked curiously.
Morgana blinked ''Oh yeah, we never got around to explaining...well, Namine's a Wild Card. Those are rare Persona users who can harness the power of a multitude of spirits. We're not quite sure how it works but I kind of get the feeling that Namine's got her own special way to pull it off.''
The girl in question had a feeling he was talking about that silver light she wound up using a while ago. Come to think of it, she had never really tried to use it again since the one time it failed with Futaba's Shadow...
''Cool!'' Futaba smiled. ''No wonder you guys make for a good team, you've got all sorts of powers and you really make them work well.''
''Well, we do try-but keep in mind that includes you too.'' Namine reminded.
Makoto nodded ''You've done very well today, I have a feeling you're going to fit in well with us.''
''Awesome!'' The girl beamed. ''Say, anyone hungry? I'm in the mood for some curry after all what went down.''
''Sounds nice,'' Ann nodded
''Yup, some of Boss' curry would hit the spot for sure.'' Ryuji grinned.
''Then it's settled, let's go!''
The next day, Namine was approached by Justine once she finished a shift at her part-time job, asking for another outing. This time, the girl admitted to being curious about a location and Namine was interested to learn that she wanted to visit Asakusa. She saw no problem with obliging the request, heading to the location and finding the girls near the exit.
Caroline cast an unimpressed look around the area ''This place doesn't look like it's any fun. I really don't understand your taste, Justine.''
''Isn't that similar to what you said about the Planetarium?'' Her twin returned. ''I know for a fact that you had an enjoyable time there.''
''Wha-no, I didn't!'' She refuted, annoyed when Justine and Namine merely appeared amused. She had the sinking suspicion that they didn't believe her.
Justine decided to change the subject, looking around at the stalls and small shops lined up here and there ''This seems to be quite the active place.''
''Yeah, I only heard about it in school but apparently they've got a bunch of games and a variety of food all over. What do you want to try first?'' Namine asked.
The twins looked around, seeing a couple of kids trying to catch fish in a large aquarium. ''How about that one?''
''That was kind of annoying.'' Caroline grumbled as they settled down with their food, all having some takoyaki, taiyaki and three drinks. ''How the heck is anyone supposed to win that game with those flimsy nets? They fall apart just like that...''
''I believe the point of the game would be to use swiftness and dexterity.'' Justine remarked. ''Those children also had some trouble but they seemed to have fared well afterwards. Losing your temper just made it worse, Caroline.''
''Well, I can't help it! Humans just come up with some really irritating and useless gimmicks.'' She harrumphed, taking a takoyaki which she dipped in a bit of the sauce she picked up earlier.
''Wait, isn't that...Caroline, hold on!''
The girl ignored Namine and ate her food. Though this was something she soon regretted as she felt a rather strong burning sensation in her mouth that made her splutter. ''W-what the...?! It's like my mouth is on fire!''
Justine's eye widened ''...Inmate, what just happened?''
''She dipped the whole thing in wasabi sauce.'' Namine explained, having not seen the girl take it earlier. ''That can be pretty intense if you're not prepared-even more so if you're bad with spicy food...''
''Now you tell me?!'' Caroline glared.
The older girl spared her a flat look in response ''You're the one who decided to tune me out.''
''You-!'' The girl found that, much to her chagrin, there wasn't much she could say to that. ''Ugh, you're as irritating as ever, Inmate!''
''Hai, hai...'' Namine knew the warden well enough by now to not pay attention to her when her temper piqued like that. ''...try to drink your juice or just take another takoyaki without the sauce. Different flavors should make that burning feeling better.''
This time, Caroline listened and took a big mouthful of her drink, sighing in relief as she began to feel better.
Justine spoke after a few minutes ''Well, accidents aside, I have to admit that this is delicious. Unlike the feel of the city in general, this place seems to be more...traditional.''
''Yeah, but I think that's part of its appeal. There's a whole bunch of different stuff around and if you get tired of just seeing the same old sights, you can come here for a change of pace.'' Namine remarked.
''Hmm, I see what you mean. The japanese certainly seem invested in traditions and the like though.''
''Yeah, do people really have to stick to habits and norms that were usual many years ago? It kind of seems stuffy.'' Caroline chipped in.
''Well, I can see why you'd think so. Not everyone is like that, some families are pretty strict but over all, it just depends on the person.''
Justine hummed in thought ''That makes sense...I suppose it's just evidence of how vast the human world can be.''
Caroline finished up her food before she went on ''So I was wondering...there were some people on the way talking about the Phantom Thieves and stuff. Including talk about the next targets and a few of them suggested some big shot president called Okumura. You're friends with his daughter, right, Inmate? I mean, she is one of your confidants.''
Namine nodded ''But I don't know much about him. Haru didn't really talk about her home life. And those rumors...well, it's hard to say whether he should be targeted just based on that. If the Phantom Thieves used that kind of thing as a guideline we'd just wind up with unbridled chaos. We don't want anything like that. I don't care about what the fans think then-we have to do what's right.''
''Well, I believe you're wise to keep your principles in tact, Inmate. From my understanding, some humans seem to tend to lose themselves to such expectations and get carried away with all the glory.'' Justine stated.
''I actually think it's a bit like that saying-all that glitters is not gold, you know what I mean?''
Caroline quirked a brow ''...Not half bad, Inmate. And here I was thinking we'd have to make sure you don't get cocky like how Justine described.''
Namine gave a small smile ''I'm hoping that never happens but on the off chance it does, please snap me out of it.''
She cracked a smirk ''Oh, you can count on that.''
Before the three decided to part ways, Namine stopped at the Velvet Room to check her progress with the twins' list. Luckily, she found that she was able to make the Neko-Shogun Persona and complete the next phase...
''Hmph, you're really getting the hang of this growth thing.'' Caroline smirked.
Namine made to speak but then she noticed Justine's odd expression ''Something wrong?''
So did Caroline ''Justine?''
''Nothing of importance...However...presiding over the growth of another feels almost nostalgic...in a way,'' She hesitated.''...Do you feel the same, Caroline?''
''Whaddya mean...? We've never taken care of someone like this before.''
''You are not wrong about that. And yet, our duty to aid her rehabilitation aside, observing her growth feels oddly familiar...'' The girl frowned.
''That can't be right! The inmate's growth and this rehabilitation are the exact same thing!'' Caroline looked at Namine. ''Hey, Inmate. The growth you're getting from these tasks is helping with your rehabilitation, right?''
''I think so...''
''See, Justine? They're the same.''
''Is that not something we should judge for ourselves though...?''
Caroline's eye narrowed ''Anyway, Justine, don't forget about our job. The duty we've been handed is all that matters. Don't think about anything else.''
''I suppose...you are correct...'' Justine didn't seem convinced though.
''Why don't you just let her decide? It'd be for the best.'' Namine offered.
Her sister sighed ''Fine...I guess you're gonna keep worrying about this till the Inmate finishes her rehabiliation, huh? Look what you've done, Inmate. Getting us all wrapped up in your fate, ugh...''
Namine decided not to respond, as thanks to her bond with them, she knew Caroline was just worried about her twin.
''Could it be...?'' Justine crossed her arms.
Namine blinked ''What's up?''
''...Nothing. But...I believe I am beginning to look forward to seeing whether the Inmate can complete her tasks.''
''You heard her. Don't disappoint us, Inmate!'' Caroline returned.
Namine nodded, she was getting curious to see what would come from finishing this up ''I told you I'll finish the list, I'll make sure of it.''
Since Sojiro had a surprise planned for his charges today, he asked them to wait until he could close up shop so Futaba went on to hang out with Namine in the attic...
''Now I wanna know what Sojiro's got up his sleeve?'' The girl leaned back on the couch.
''Well, from the look on his face, whatever it is sounds good.'' Namine remarked.
''True, true and it sounds like he really won't tell until we get to it.'' Futaba noted. ''Say, I've been thinking...it feels like I made a lot of progress-like I went over 20 levels in the past weeks. But then I remember what happened in Akihabara and...well...''
''Hey, don't worry about that. We'll make sure you get to deal with those fears. Look at it this way, it's something to strive for. So one day, you'll be able to look back at these times and feel proud of yourself.'' Namine cut in.
The hacker perked up ''You think so...? I find it hard to imagine but I like how you put it, so it'd be a goal for clearing the stage...'' She paused. ''...I'm pretty good with computers but it's like I freeze up and I can't even bring myself to speak up sometimes...I know Sojiro wants me to go back to school but when I think of what could happen...that things could go bad just like when I last when to school...I just don't think I can deal with that...''
Namine was puzzled at the wording-what happened when she last when to school?
''Anyway, online classes are better for studying and I won't even have to leave the house.'' Futaba stated.
''There's more to school than that, Futaba.'' Namine pointed out. ''You could get a variety of experiences not even studying can prepare you for. Boss just wants to make sure you don't isolate yourself. There's more to school than just the work. After all, online classes wouldn't solve the problem.''
Futaba grimaced ''You're prolly right. Just studying by myself is way different from school...''
''Do you want to go back?''
''To be honest, yeah...I definitely do.'' Futaba admitted. ''Do you think I can, Namine?''
''Yeah. We can get it to happen if we work together. The whole team's got your back. It's a work in progress. Besides, I'm your key item, right? With that kind of support, we can make sure it'd happen.''
''Hehe, yeah!'' Futaba smiled. ''I-I'm gonna do my best.'' She stood abruptly. ''Oh, I should make a promise list!''
The older girl looked puzzled ''A what?''
Futaba looked at her ''My mom used to have me do that all the time. She'd write all my goals for the month, like cleaning the house or running errands for her. Then we'd finish one, she'd mark it off with big stamp. She always used to write comments too...those were the best. Oh, and once I finished all my goals, she would take a day off work to spend time with me.''
''That sounds really nice.'' Namine smiled.
''Right? It's decided, I'm gonna make a promise list, time to get my ideas ready!'' Futaba exclaimed.
''All done!'' Futaba announced.
''Oh?'' Namine sat next to her.
''Yup, I'll read it out. 1-Go somewhere with lots of people. Getting used to big crowds is key. 2-Go to school. I wanna see what the inside of a normal high school is like. 3-Learn about my generation. I definitely need more info...4. Have a normal conversation with a stranger my age. How's that?''
''Pretty good.'' Those goals seemed aimed at the heart of the problem and she thought they would definitely help deal with her friend's social anxiety.
''I'm not setting a deadline for this, by the way. I wanna try and finish all of them someday!'' Futaba chirped.
Namine nodded ''That's better. A deadline would mean feeling pressured. Don't over do it.''
''True, true. With you helping me here, I'll work even harder with my navigation in return!'' The orange haired girl hesitated. ''S-so, um...If I finish all the promises, do you think I could have a reward...? I know it's kinda weird to ask...having a reward at the finish line will totally push me onward...Anyway, I got this! Though I'm kinda exhausted from making the list sooo...'' She lay down. ''...I wanna take a nap.''
Namine blinked as the girl curled up next to her. She smiled, feeling pleased that Futaba seemed so relaxed around her and proceeded to stroke her hair.
''Mmm, that feels nice...'' Futaba smiled to herself and closed her eyes.
Morgana arrived then through the window, blinking when he saw the girls ''What's going on?''
''We were just talking and...''
Later, the girls found out that Sojiro wanted to take them to a sushi restaurant. Something that made Futaba's face light up ''Sushi? You mean...?!''
''Yup, just like before. It's been so long after the first time we went...but it's about time. You can go out again but Namine's summer break is almost over. I figure we should do something.''
Sojiro raised an eye as he heard a meow that made him look at Morgana. ''Sushi?!'' Morgana exclaimed.
''Man, that thing never stops meowing, does it?'' Sojiro wondered.
''I'd like to take him but I don't think that's going to work...the last time I went to a restaurant like that I found out they had rules against pets.'' Namine stated, thinking of the time she went with Haru. ''Sorry, Mona, I'll bring you some food back.''
''You know me so well!'' The cat beamed.
''Figures. I think I'll do that too. I do feel sorry for it...'' Sojiro admitted.
''Let's see, I want some fatty tuna, codroe...'' Morgana started.
''Hold on, why don't we wait until I get upstairs? I can just keep a note on my phone.'' Namine suggested quietly.
''Oh, good point. Sure, thanks a bunch!''
''So how is it? Good?'' Sojiro smiled at Futaba.
''Delihious!'' She replied, still eating.
''Don't wolf it down like that. No one's gonna take your food.'' He sighed when the girl choked. ''What did I tell you...?''
''Here.'' Namine pushed her teacup over.
She coughed after drinking it ''Hrestroom!''
''Huh?...Restrooms? They're that way.'' They watched the girl rush off before Sojiro sighed. ''Sheesh, what a busy girl...''
Namine smiled ''Never a dull moment, right?''
''Yeah, never a peaceful one either.'' He added with a snort, smirking when Namine laughed a bit. ''...Back in the day, she, her mother and I used to go eat out often...This brings back memories...I had completely forgotten about it too...''
''No wonder you seemed that happy.'' Namine noted.
''Heh, you think I did?'' He chuckled. ''Well, it's hard not to be at this turnaround.''
''That was close...I thought I was gonna die!'' Futaba plopped down in her seat. ''Welp, time to resume.''
''You're still going to eat?'' Sojiro blinked.
''Meh, I'm all full, I'm throwing in the towel.''
''...Sometimes it's like a whiplash of moods with her...'' Namine muttered, exasperated.
''You got that right...'' Sojiro stated with a similar expression.
''Which is it...?'' He stood. ''I'm gonna use the restroom and then pay the bill. Check please.''
''Comin' right up!''
''When I got into middle school, my mom and Sojiro took me out to eat sushi to celebrate.'' Futaba recalled. ''That sushi was so good...Today's was pretty good too. I hope the three of us can come again sometime.''
Namine smiled, that explained the girl's earlier reaction. ''That sounds nice.''
''When should we do it again?'' The younger girl looked down ''...I wish she could've had this sushi too...'',
''Futaba...''
Her expression hardened ''I want to find out what happened to Mom...I won't forgive the guy who triggered the mental shutdown...So...''
Both were startled by Sojiro's cry of ''A hundred twenty thousand yen?! You're joking, right?!''
''Looks like we won't be getting sushi to go.'' Futaba frowned.
''Ahh, I did promise Mona...I'll see what I can do.'' Namine stood.
Well, I think I'll stop here.
I hope this was good. I was going for something light hearted just to effectively wrap this arc before I start on tne next one. I've made some good progress on it so far.
Well, thanks for reading 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 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 5)
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 2)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 2)