Vangran: You actually make a good point. I never looked at the 3rd semester that way before. It's just an idealized reality, not the truth of how things really were. It just painted a pretty picture of the situation but there had to be more to it. It really was doing a disservice to the peeople they care for...
blee7442: Thank you, it's great to hear that. It makes me really happy to hear that people like Namine.
Namine had been heading to school when Akechi found her, the brunet looking to thank her for the help with the investigation...
''Ah, don't worry about that.'' He'd more than kept up his promise and helped her with a few more observation lessons ''We both got something out of it and everyone won in the end.''
Akechi decided to refrain from pointing out the fact that she technically didn't gain anything from this. After all, the one who were directly involved were himself and Kitagawa and she only chose to help them. Even the lessons didn't feel like much compared to the time they spent working on this. ''...I thought you might say something like that. Still, my point stands-I only made it this far in the investigation thanks to you.''
''Well, everyone could use a helping hand every once in a while so it's just fine.''
His response was cut off when an announcement rang through the station, announcing that the trains were beginning to arrive. Knowing they had best hurry or they'd be late, the two teens headed off...
Makoto had the chance to sit down with the girl who had been shunned because her father was involved with Kaneshiro's gang. As it turned out, Masuda Jun had been the one who tricked him into it, leaving the man no choice but to work with them lest he and his family wind up dead. Luckily, with them changing his heart, he had confessed and the truth was out in the open.
While people had been much nicer to her since, she wasn't sure she could trust them. Makoto could commiserate but she didn't want her to close herself off to everyone either. Fortunately, their talk helped the girl straighten her feelings out and she thanked the council president, declaring that she knew what to do now.
The brunette wished her own problems could be solved so easily...
It was her own fault, she knew. She had kept this from her friends for so long and they were the only ones who could help. Makoto could only see one solution to the issue but she kept hoping she could find another way.
How did Haru do this? Was this how Yusuke felt months ago?
Things were far worse than she imagined and it looked like she may really have no choice...
Haru walked down a hall, heading to meet her friends. They had almost finished the Palace and it was almost time for the change of heart. If she was being honest with herself, she didn't want things to be like this. The heiress didn't want to have to fight her father but this was the best she could do-she would stop him and hopefully get back the father she loved.
She was so thankful for her friends, she didn't know how she could've possibly gotten through this troubling time without them. Namine had even assured her that having doubts was more than fine, she had a few of those herself. But it was their lot in life, her father wouldn't be dissuaded otherwise. And the heiress couldn't help thinking to Namine's words in Mementos.
Yes, looking away and doing nothing would be no different than being complicit in their suffering and Haru refused to ever let that pass.
For all the negative changes to her life, there were all the positive ones to counter them.. She woudln't give up her friends for anything.
''...was amazing!''
Blinking, the girl turned at the voice, finding a few students gathered around Namine up ahead. The burgundy haired seemed somewhat embarrassed but also happy and Haru could hear a few talking about a performance...
Ah, that's right. She remembered Morgana telling them about Namine playing the piano two days here. Her friend's talent had shone through, leaving everyone in awe. Haru's smile grew, seeing them heap praise on Namine. It was certainly well-deserved in her opinion and she always liked seeing reminders that her dear friend's situation was improving at school.
''You know, you could totally perform in the school festival. It'd be cool!'' A student suggested.
''Ah, you're not the first to bring this up but...I really don't think that could work.''
The comment had Haru thinking though, maybe the possibility shouldn't be dismissed. She actually liked the idea. Hm...perhaps they could help make it happen? She'd have to bring it up with the others some time...
The Phantom Thieves headed to the Palace after school. Sage could only look around in wonder at the spaceport, while they'd done their best to bring their newest member up to speed, seeing was believing. The Metaverse truly was full of surprises.
''My, seeing the actual Palace is certainly surprising...'' He uttered ''...hm, would it be correct to assume that President Okumura has a fondness for space? The feeling would have to be strong to affect his cognition so much.''
Noir confirmed, seeming a bit surprised that he noticed. Mona smiled ''Yup, you really are observant. Brace yourselves, we're going in!''
The team activated a couple of airlocks, encountering shadows in the process. One of the enemies unintentionally revealed where the next lock is and they encountered a number of Belphegor and Kumbhanda Shadows there.
The enemies tried to freeze them with a combined burst of ice magic but the group scrambled to defend themselves or dodge. Panther employed Hecate's flames to fend the attacks off while Queen and Sage helped her with their respective Personas' nuclear magic.
Both Kumbhandas tried to inflict Rage on their targets but Skull quickly gunned one down while Noir stunned the others wih her axe, blasting it with Milady's Psiodyne then. When it looked like the first would counter, Joker summoned her newly fused Dakini persona to stop this, countering with a series of fast slashes that took both shadows down.
''Panther, the Belphegors are weak to fire!'' Oracle called.
The blonde smirked ''All right, Hecate!'' The goddess of magic appeared once again, causing plenty of damage with Maragion. Seeing the weakened enemies, the group took the chance to finish them off.
Mona put his scimitar away after defeating another Shadow ''The security sure went up-wonder if this mean we're really shaking Okumura up that much...''
''Maybe we are but...'' Noir faltered. ''...he's learned that any plans of a deal he could make with Sugimura's family are failing. No matter how hard he tried, they just wouldn't budge. Father has been busy scrambling to make up for that-he's still determined to reach his goal in the end.''
In other words, he was determined to reach his so called utopia, even if he had sell her in the process. No one had the heart to point that out, their disgust with the man returning in full.
''Then it's just as well we're here.'' Joker broke the silence.
''Indeed, all the more reason to press on and take his heart.'' Fox added. Noir nodded, giving the pair a grateful look.
The team found a group of worker and a few Thunderbird Shadows gathered around a strange, but familiar machine...
Skull looked alarmed ''Hey, is that like...?''
Oracle pursed her lips at the sight of the Mothman Shadow writing in the machine ''Yeah, it's a lot like what happened when we found Garuda.'' Her eyes widened. ''Oh, boy-watch out!''
Her warning came in good time as the Mothman blasted everything in sight with a strong Megido. The force of the move severely damaged the area and the Shadow burst of the machine, thrashing about wildly.
''Whoa, Oracle-any idea what's going on?'' Panther asked.
''Like I said, this is what they tried with Garuda-except it's not nearly so stable. That thing's super juiced but it's completely berserk.''
The workers tried ordering the Shadows to defend them but it did no good though. The Mothman brushed past their lightning spells, bashing one in a wall and blinding the rest with Flash Bomb. Panicking, the workers run away just as the Mothman spotted the team, firing another Megido at once.
Joker quickly used the Song of Harmony to negate the spell while Skull and Mona attacked. The enemy was fast enough to avoid Skull's club but Zorro's winds almost threw it off balance.
Queen dodged a Skull Cracker attacker before aiming a kick in retaliation ''Joker, can the Song of Harmony help her?''
''...I don't think so.'' Garuda was calmed just after facing the silver light but it didn't do anything here. ''This isn't like back then.''
''She's right...'' Oracle knew, having her scan. ''...this one's a lot worse off. We've gotta take it down-guys, it resists Psy attacks and blocks electic moves to weak to gun attacks.''
''In that case, allow me. Milady!'' Noir touched her mask, the pink clad noblewoman emerging beside her. ''Triple Down!''
At first, it looked like the Shadow was fast enough to dodge the hail of bullets but the repeated assault clipped its wing, almost knocking it down. It attacked with Skull Cracker but Adam Kadmon swiftly fended it off and Fox struck back with his sword, sending it back. Queen and Joker gunned it down, allowing Noir to finish it off.
That was when they noticed a surprise. The remaning Thunderird flew over, having hidden away earlier. Queen blinked as it circled over them ''This is...different.'' A thought occured to her. ''Wait, the Song may not have worked on that Shadow but what if...?''
''Oh, that makes sense!'' Mona realized that the Shadow was likely brought back to its true self by the siilver light. ''It's definitely friendly now-hey, Joker, maybe it wants to work with you.''
The Thunderbird chirped as if to affirm this, circling the girl then. Joker gave a small smile as it disappeared, changing into a mask which merged with her own.
Finding some treasures along the way, the group reached the Weapon Production line. One of the first noticeable things about the place was the busy workers going about seemingly non-stop. They found one who collapsed in exhaustion but it was merely cast aside callously, with everyone focusing on their work.
Sage's eyes narrrowed in distaste ''Is it always like this?'' Noir nodded sadly. ''I see...that's certainly disturbing.''
''Yeah, be glad you haven't seen the conveyor belt.'' Things like this really made Panther understand Joker's sentiments about society's apathy. ''People know stuff like this has been going on right under their noses but they just bury their heads in the sand because it's the easy way out.''
It was one of the reasons they chose to fight, because they couldn't stand for this sort of thing. They, who had faced their demons and conquered them to get to where they were today. Some people may not see it but the Phantom Thieves wished to inspire the same strength they found to overcome adversity in others.
''But we know better, so we're going to keep going. Someway, somehow we're going to figure things out so we'll keep fighting for those whose voices can't be heard. No matter what.'' Mona declared.
Joker smiled at the cat, pleased to hear such conviction ''Exactly. It's hard but sometimes the hard things are just the most worthwhile. I don't know about you guys but being friends with all of you made everything better. I wouldn't change that for the world.''
Panther beamed ''Same here.''
''Absolutely.'' Queen agreed while Noir happily concurred.
Oracle nodded, her circumstances had been rough but meeting all of them really changed things for the better. Come to think of it, that could be said about most of them, couldn't it?
''You girls are just big saps.'' Skull teased
Fox gave him an amused look ''Oh, I'm sure we all feel the same way. Don't pretend like you weren't pleased with these words.''
''Okay, okay...'' Of course the artist was right, he couldn't imagine his life without this motley crew. ''...heh, yeah who am I kidding? We Phantom Thieves gotta stick together, am I right?''
''Do you even need to ask?'' Queen returned, making him grin. Yeah, needless to say the answer was clear as day.
Sage's smile was full of admiration of their bond. Yes, the Phantom Thieves were going from strength to strength. He would be more than happy to help ensure it stayed that way.
A number of patrolling workers stood around a big burly robot, one of the directors. ''Remember, the time is coming fast. The president's ultimate plan will come to fruition-we must do all we can to have it be a success. No mater what!''
''Yes, sir!'' They cried.
The robots heard another worker in the distance calling about intruders, bringing their attention to the Phantom Thieves making their way through the area.
''So it's your pests again? Perfect...I'll eliminate you for the president!'' The executive jumped up to punch Noir, who dodged in time.
The girl blasted the enemy with her grenade launcher but he pressed through, telling those nearby to attack. The director laughed as they were being boxed in ''You fools are just running out of your luck.''
''Don't be so sure. Let's go, Seiten Taisei!'' Skull called.
''Johanna!''
''Come, Adam Kadmon!''
The three Personas attacked on their summoners' command. Seiten Taisei began pushing them back with Swift Strike while the others two fired magic attack to force them away. As the workers charged, Noir had Milady blast away with her Psy attacks while Oracle's bombs helped clear out a crowd.
The director recoiled as smoke settled from the growing battle ''You useless little...!''
''You've got bigger problems to worry about!'' Mona rushed out of the smoke, quickly followed by Joker and Fox. The three striking with their blades in tandem. Grunting in anger, the director lashed out to retaliate and they continued to battle while the others took care of the workers.
Another of the directors' attacked was halted when Fox blocked its fist with his sheath, allowing Mona and Joker a chance to strike. In seconds, Arsene and Zorro charged at the cognition, who attempted to push them away some magic but they managed to push through and fight. It cried out as Arsene's Maeiga hit home, left unprepared for Zorro's oncoming blade.
It attempted to throw some grenades but Goemon's ice magic put the idea to a quick halt, taking it off guard. Grunting in anger, the director kept up the assault. While it managed to push them back at first, the three were quickly gaining ground.
The enemy was strong but the three thieves were nimble and they worked together very well. One could help defend while the others attacked and vice versa. The director used an Almighty spell, Joker summoned Okuninushi, who sliced through the orbs coming her way before unleashing a blistering attack.
''D-damn you...!'' The cognition grunted, getting to its feet just as the three were about to take it down. ''...This isn't the time...I can't stay-you'll all pay for this!''
Skull scowled as it fled ''Oi, get back here!''
''Leave it, that doesn't matter now.'' Mona returned, looking at the hall. ''The Treasure's up ahead.''
Sage looked around as they entered the hall ''I...don't see anything that could be a treasure.''
''That way.'' Oracle pointed to the floating sphere on the platform. ''It's like we told you, the Calling Cards make the real Treasures manifest so we can pull it off.''
The man hummed in thought ''Fascinating. Yes, you did say they have to make the Treasures appear...so what now?''
''Let's call it a day, we have to prepare ourselves.'' They nodded to Queen.
As they were about to leave the Palace, Joker stopped walking...
''...Guys, can we talk?'' She knew it was now or never '' think we need to straighten a few things out before we go any further.''
Skull blinked ''About what?''
Queen gave the girl a curious look ''There's a Safe Room nearby, would that do?'' Joker nodded and the brunette lead them over.
''Okay, Joker-let's hear it. What's up?'' Oracle prompted, perching on a desk.
''I've been thinking about how to handle this operation for a while. After what happened lately, we really do need to make the most of this. Not just to find some answers, I think recent events proved that there's more consequences to our actions than we could've known so...''
She knew this coming part may not go over well but it needed to be said. With Arsene's silent support, she soldiered on ''...I remember how Kaneshiro and the others confessed to everything after the change of heart settled in. We know Okumura's involved in the Mental Shutdowns but do you think maybe...we can make sure Okumura keeps the truth to himself for now?''
Needless to say, this took them all by surprise. Where was it coming from?
''What're you talking about? He has to confess, especially if it has to do with the mental shutdowns!'' Mona exclaimed.
''Hold on, let's hear her out.'' Skull might have had a similar reaction but he knew for a fact that Joker wouldn't consider this without very good cause, which made him ask. ''...What's really bugging ya, Joker?''
''I'm not sure if I'm overthinking this but...it's hard not to make the connections.'' She bit her lip ''We all agree that what happened to Hakuba was suspicious. Then there's that organization he told us about...look at what happened to Suwabe. I heard he was actually willing to go to the police for help-that he had some confesssion to make...and then he got a Mental Shutdown. Madarame and Kaneshiro both knew about the Black Mask. We don't even know a single thing about this guy but he's definitely powerful. There's no telling what he could do if the truth about Okumura comes out. So...I guess I'm afraid that if he does confess, it'll get him killed.''
The group stopped cold, realizing this was very likely. Noir went pale while some of the others exchanged alarmed looks. They hadn't considered this angle. But now that she laid it out...
Oracle realized that Joker was trying to look at the big picture. She could totally see their leader's concerns, things had gotten a lot more complicated recently. They had to deal with it all carefully.
Joker's reasoning was also making a worrying amount of sense to Fox ''That's very observant of you. I haven't looked it at that way before but it's true that things have gotten complicated-we need to learn from that and plan accordingly.''
''Yes, I remember was suspected to have been involved in some rather shady deals as well. Odds are he might have at least had evidence leading to the criminal, if he didn't actually know who it was. Kamoshida, Madarame and Kaneshiro all confessed to their sins in public. Kaneshiro was only safe from the mobs' retaliation because he was in custody. The fact that the killer is still unknown makes this all the more dangerous...I'd say the risk would be likely lessened if we change his heart but we can't take that chance.'' Queen frowned. Sure, they were still angry at Okumura for how he treated Noir but he didn't deserve to die.
Sage nodded ''The pieces do seem to be falling into place. He has to be very cunning and stealthy, he's gotten away for this long. That criminal must have either some good resources or backing. It's likely that he has quite the power in the real world too. As you say, we need to think of where to go from here...and consider the ramifications of our actions. Especially knowing of this Organization, we have to keep what they might do in mind.''
''It really adds up. Yeah, we were always going to handle this with care but we should've considered this before...'' Mona trailed off.
The fear for her father was gnawing at Noir more than ever ''So what do we do?''
''I don't really have a plan yet.'' Joker winced, not meeting her gaze ''That's kind of what I wanted to bring up next.''
''Nothing wrong with that, you've done plenty.'' Sage placed his hands on their shoulders. ''Let's get to work then.''
Later at night, the group was heading off in their seperate ways when Haru stopped Namine, making their nearby friends look over...
''Thank you, Nami-chan.'' She smiled ''For what you said back there-I've been hesitating about all this, just wondering what I can do to stop Father. I even wondered if...'' Haru shook her head. ''...but I never even thought...''
Not only had that talk given them better perspective, it lef thte team feeling much more ready. Their plan was still in the works but this was a good step in the right direction.
''I just thought it needed to be said.'' Namine returned. ''I couldn't just go on and not even consider what happened lately, you know? We don't have all the answers yet but we'll figure this out-okay?'' Haru nodded, giving her a grateful look. ''On that subject, I've been wondering...Haru, you're hoping you could reason with your dad, right?''
''Eh?'' Morgana, Makoto and Yusuke looked at the girl as she stilled.
''H-how...?''
''What, like I don't know you by now?'' Namine half-smiled ''It's just the way she is-Haru doesn't give up on someone she cares for without even trying.'' To the girl, she added. ''You made it clear that the change of heart was the only way you could see to help-it wasn't that much of a stretch from there.''
Makoto was struck by the similarity between them once again. All this time, she'd been surprised by the strength Haru displayed that she never thought that it was surely hard for her too...
Haru looked down ''I'm sorry...I-I know it's foolish but I just...''
''Don't even go there. We're the ones who told you to be honest with your feelings remember?'' Morgana cut in. ''If you feel that way, you should just say it. You held yourself back long enough.''
''You really care for him, Okumura-chan. It just shows how much of a good person you really are.'' Takuto assured.
''Something may come of this, Haru-if you believe in him so strong, you should try. You'll likely regret this forever otherwise.'' Yusuke reasoned.
Makoto nodded ''It's nothing to be ashamed of, Haru. From what you've told us, he was a good father. If you want to give him a chance, go ahead.''
Haru began to smile at their supportive words. She had been worried they would be angry if they found out but as always, they never stopped surprising her.
''Things may be still complicated but we can figur them out. We've got your back, okay?'' Namine added, smiling reassuringly.
Haru nodded happily-right, she wasn't alone. She was still nervous about the change of heart but she felt more than ready with them. The heires felt gratitude well up for Namine once again.. The dear friend who had helped her so much until she got here, with her recently discovered strength and this amazing group of friends.
They may not know what the days would bring but there was no question that the team would do their best to keep going strong. They would face the coming days together, always knowing the others would have their backs.
Well, let's stop here.
What do you think? I just wanted to set the way for the change of heart here. Like I mentioned before, that's going to be in a chapter on its own because what I have planned there is big.
Akechi's lessons not only showed Namine how to pick up things she may previously miss but they were also a reminder to really stop and observe everything around them. It helps her think of the bigger picture, hence that talk in the Safe Room. I'm of the opinion that all what happened lately needs to be kept in mind while they handle Okumura, so they can make the best choices. Remember, they hardly know a thing about the Black Mask and that makes him all the more dangerous.
Thankss for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 7)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank Max)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank 9)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 6)
Igor (Aeon Rank 5)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 6)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 7)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank Max)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 7)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 6)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 6)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 7)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 4)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 4)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 4)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 5)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 3)
Iwai Munehisa(Hanged Man Rank 2)
Sakura Futaba (Hermit Rank 3)
Nijima Sae (Judgement Rank 2)
Maruki Takuto (Councillor Rank 1)