It was lunchtime at Shujin. Namine, Ryuji, Morgana and Haru were on their way to meet their friends.
Morgana couldn't help smiling when he noticed how some students here and there would greet his friends. This went especially Namine and Ryuji, who had been treated like pariahs for so long thanks to circumstances out of their control. But people were finally seeing them for who they were.
"Hyakuya-senpai!''
The group of four followed the new voice to the source to find Akari running over, the girl returning her smile ''Hey, Akari-chan, how's it going on?''
"Pretty good!'' The younger girl beamed. ''I mean it was a pain to catch up to the homework after I left the hospital but everything's been brilliant! Hisashi let me redecorate our home and everyone's been saying it's so pretty and lively now. They think I may really have a knack for it!''
"That's great!'' Her exuberance was very nice to hear. Things had really been looking up for her since they changed her cousin's heart, it seemed.
''Mmhm, and oh yeah-Okumura-senpai, if you see a first year girl with black hair that has a blue streak, I think you should avoid her.''
Haru wondered where this came from ''Why?''
''We heard her talking about your family. Her grandma used to be rich. From the sound of it, she's looking to schmooze and suck up to you.''
The girl's expression turned into one of distaste at the thought and Ryuji shook his head ''Thanks, Koizumi. Haru hates that kinda crap.''
"Figured as much...'' Akari nodded. ''...she's way too nice to be like those typical rich snobs. I gotta say though, you guys sure got along fast, didn't you?''
Haru just smiled ''I was just lucky to find some great friends. Besides, I've gotten to know Nami-chan for months now and she's never cared about my family's wealth.''
"Nice!'' The other girl returned. ''Sooo, I was wondering-there's been a couple of rumors...''
Ryuji almost groaned. Of course there were... ''Great, what now?''
"It's nothing bad… She added quickly. ''…just something about Hyakuya-senpai playing the piano really well the other day. Was that true?''
"Oh, it is. It was most excellent.'' Haru may not have heard the entire piece but what she caught was great.
''It's nothing so special...but yeah, music's been my hobby for years and I just wound up playing in the music club the other day.'' Namine told Akari.
Haru decided to bring up an idea she had before ''Speaking of which-Nami-chan? I was wondering...''
A short while later...
''...And Haru suggested Namine could try performing in the school festival.'' Morgana put in as they finished re-telling the event.
Ann perked up ''That's a great idea!''
It was just as she finished texting the others over the group chat that Ryuji spoke up ''No one's sayin' you gotta do it...''
This made her blink and look over at him and Namine, the girl's expression belaying her stance ''You don't want to?''
"...I don't think so. That day with the piano was one thing and I did it on a whim. I don't feel up to this.'' Namine was enjoying her old hobby like she used to, even practicing occasionally but this felt like a step too far.
''Well, it's up to you.'' Ann returned and Haru liked the idea, Yusuke seemed all for it as well but no one would push her on. ''Actually, about the festival...''
The brunette's faraway gaze made her forgot the question she had in mind ''...hey, what's wrong?''
Morgana blinked ''Makoto?''
The girl didn't respond, only starting when the cat prodded her knee. ''W-what is it?'' She just became aware of the others' gazes on her. Ryuji voicing the question they all had in mind. ''Uh, you okay?''
"Yes, why wouldn't I be?''
Haru's expression made it clear that she wasn't convinced, neither were the others for that matter. ''Did something happen? You were really distracted in class too. You hardly even answered any question right today-even the teachers thought it was odd.''
"Okay, something's definitely up.'' Ann arched an eye. Their resident studious brainiac messing up like that? Yeah, no way that was normal.
"I-it's nothing for you to worry about...'' Makoto bit her lip.
"Even if you say that...'' Namine knew that the others, like her, were certainly aring a look with the others. It didn't mean they weren't going to worry. Whether the girl admitted it or not, something was wrong.
Ryuji decided to change the subject for now ''So hey, Haru-is your old man really turning things around? Boss said something about how things were beginning to change at the company yesterday...''
"Oh, yes.'' The heiress seemed to perk up at this. ''I'm still not sure what he's doing exactly but he's been awfully busy as of late. I know he's been to a lot of meetings but all I'm sure is that he wants to change the situation at Okumura Foods. I found some of the papers he was working on this morning and I think he really does want to change things for the better. I intend to try finding out more soon.''
"Make sure you let us know what you find then.'' She nodded to Morgana.
"You know...this is different from before, huh? I mean, Futaba was a unique case and we barely know what went down with Kaneshiro but Kamoshida and Madarame were quiet for days.'' Ann recalled.
Namine looked at their resident Metaverse expert "Isn't it because we didn't take the treasure?''
"Yup. Okumura had it the whole time-I was looking for a way to get it but after those two strangers showed up...''
"Everything went to hell.'' Ryuji added, nodding. Circe and Pluto's arrival had thrown everything into even more chaos. There had also been the bomb to worry about. With the time running so short when the shadows stopped battling, all they could do was leave...
"Then it's sort of like with Matsuoka-san and Koizumi-san, right, Mona-chan?'' Haru clarified.
"Since we didn't take the treasure, the change of heart's consequences aren't as severe as they could be.'' The feline offered. ''In a way, we got lucky back there. We definitely have to keep a sharp eye out in the Metaverse. Who knows what those two are up to.''
As they agreed, Namine couldn't help but note that Makoto's gaze was distant once more...
After school...
"So we're going to the Metaverse tomorrow?'' Futaba clarified.
Haru nodded ''Takuto-sensei, Ryuji and Yusuke are busy and...''
"Makoto is...well...'' Namine shared an uncertain look with the former.
"Makoto's been acting strange today.'' Morgana told the confused hacker. ''We're pretty sure something's up but she won't say a word.''
''Weird...'' She paused at the sound of a phone ringing.
Haru realized it was hers, answering ''Oh, excuse me.''
The four of them decided to visit the Sky Tower. It had been a long time since both Futaba and Haru came here; they decided it would be a good time as any to visit.
Futaba shrunk back closer to her friends as she took note of the number of people around the tower. ''I don't remember it being this crowded...''
"Well, it's no more than the beach and you did well there.'' Morgana offered.
"Yeah, you'll be fine. We'll make sure of it.'' Namine patted her shoulder, eliciting a small smile.
Haru rejoined them shortly afterwards, smiling ''I have some good news. It turns out Father booked Destiny Land for a meeting that apparently fell through but he told me I may use the reservation instead. So I'd like to invite you all to celebrate our success.''
"Whoa, are you serious?!'' Futaba's face lit up.
Namine was about to comment when Morgana spoke up ''Isn't Destiny Land that park...?''
The girl nodded and took out her phone, bringing up some pictures of the place ''Whoa-and here I thought Dome Town was big...That sure looks fancy. You sure about this, Haru?''
"Of course! It's nothing compared to what you've done all for me. Consider it my way of repaying you.''
"Not this again.'' Namine sighed. ''You don't owe us anything for being your friends, you goof.''
The older girl smiled warmly ''Hehe, right. Then we'll just be going to have a great time.''
"Now you're talking!'' Futaba chirped as they went inside.
"...You know, this reminds me of a place I just checked in this game I've been playing.'' Futaba commented as they came out of the elevator.
"Is this like that fishing game you kept talking about?''
The girl harrumphed at Morgana's dry tone ''Hey, I did great back there-I got those two big fish! I had loads of exp. points, you know.''
Blue eyes rolled "Yeah, I'm pretty sure it's more because you're stupidly lucky.''
"Green's not a flattering color on you, kitty.'' was Futaba's response.
"No one jealous here-nope, no way!''
Futaba gave a cheeky grin ''Keep telling yourself that.''
Haru laughed a bit at the exchange while Namine hid a smile ''Well, I don't know about your game, Futaba but there's nothing like coming to the real place. That's one thing I like about going out here, there's loads of fun stuff to do.''
"Oh yeah, you're from the country.'' Futaba mused. ''Must have been a real shock to come here-how many new experiences does that make for you now?''
The burgundy haired girl arched an eye ''This coming from the girl who admitted to never swimming without an inner tube until this summer?''
Spluttering, the girl pouted as she failed to think of a rebuttal, to her friends' amusment ''...Meanies.''
"Come to think of it, Nami-chan, you mentioned something about traveling a few times with your grandparents, right?'' Haru recalled.
''Yup, they had a couple of business trips and other stuff to handle so every now and then, they'd let me go with them. You know, there was one time we almost went to Inaba but they canceled their plans by pure chance. If we had gone, we would've wound up there around the same time those murder cases took place.''
"Seriously? You mean the stories about the Midnight Channel and stuff?'' Futaba grimaced ''Whoa, talk about good timing...''
"Yes, I'd hate to think any of you would be involved in those horrid incidents.'' Haru added.
Morgana remembered hearing a bit about those times from Futaba while the others were on the trip. But this did bring something he hadn't really thought of back then. ''You think those stories are real? I mean there were those bizarre rumors about people disappearing into TVs or something, right?''
"No clue but hey, we don't get to talk when we work through a phone app.'' Futaba shrugged
"True...'' The cat wasn't about to argue with that. ''...so hey, Haru-what was that about at the entrance? You looked like you were lost in thought.''
"Oh, I remembered a story Father told me over two years ago. This is where he proposed to my mother. At least, he intended to set it up that way.''
Namine found herself intrigued ''So what happened?''
"Well, he invited her to dinner so he could propose. This place is really beautiful at night and many agree that it's quite romantic. Mother enjoyed her visits her too. Father was so nervous that he was...well, all over the place. When she asked him why, he fumbled and stuttered a bit. Then he wound up proposing right when they were at the elevator before he even knew it.''
Futaba snickered while Morgana laughed and Namine tried to suppress her own amusement. The second then spoke ''S-sorry, we probably shouldn't laugh...''
"No, it's all right. I had the same reaction.'' Haru assured. ''In the end, Mother was thrilled and people congratulated them. Father finds it quite amusing himself. It was a day they both looked back on fondly.''
Futaba glanced out the window ''Y'know, the view from here really is amazing. This is totally worth coming...It makes me feel like a deity peering down all my subjects!''
"A deity, huh?'' Namine half-smiled.
"Yup! If it'll keep you quiet, I guess I'll give you the privilege of continuing to hang out with me.'' Futaba winked
Namine pretended to be blown away "Oh, what an honor.''
Futaba took on an imperious tone ''Good, I'm glad you understand.''
The silence was broken by the quartet sharing a laugh, Futaba carrying on. ''Look at the trains! The whole city looks like a diorama, but there are really people living down there...The scenery looks way different when you think of it like that.''
"It gives you a whole new perspective, doesn't it?'' Haru joined her.
"For sure.'' Futaba agreed. ''So where do you think Leblanc is from here...Can you guys show me?''
''We can try,'' Namine started looking around. ''Hang on a sec...''
Since they would be meeting at Leblanc for dinner, Futaba and Morgana decided to go on ahead. As she was considering what to do, Namine got a text from Makoto, asking to meet at the entrance of the underground mall. Maybe she could figure out what was going on with the girl...
When she found Makoto, the girl had some flowers and a bag, but the girl didn't say much and asked her to come along-promising to explain, leading towards the graveyard.
The brunette proceeded to place the flowers on a certain grave stone. Things started falling into place when Namine read the engraved name. Without further ado, she began praying with her friend.
Makoto let out a breath ''...Thank you. I'm sorry if I've been difficult today-it's just not a good time for me. Today marks three years since my father died.''
Well, that explained it. The girl was not only close to her father but admired and missed him dearly ''I can see why this would be hard on you.''
"Yes...'' Makoto closed her eyes for a moment. ''...everything changed so much since then. Sis takes him for a fool, thinking he died and left us in the lurch because of what she considers his foolish ideals. I keep wondering how she could believe such a thing but she never wants to listen to me. He did his best to ensure justice would be served-that couldn't be wrong. I wish I could prove it to her.''
"Well...maybe you need to give it some time.'' Namine admittedly wouldn't have considered this before getting to know more about Sae from Akechi. While she did think the woman went too far, she was starting to understand what it was like for her. ''A lot changed for the both of you. It kind of seems like she's bitter. Technically as the oldest, it'd leave her with somewhat different circumstances.''
"I know...that's why I wanted to find a way to help her but she keeps insisting that I focus on my studies. It might even have to do with...''
Idly wondering what that was about, Namine dimissed the thought in favor of her next action.
Makoto bit back a cry of surprise when the other cuffed her lightly on the back of the head. ''W-what was that for?''
"You're the furthest thing from an idiot, Makoto, so don't start acting like one.'' A scowl ''You obviously weren't up to going to school. You didn't have to force yourself like this-especially today.''
The brunette's expression made it clear that she didn't expect that. ''Oh, I...I guess I've become so used to focusing on my studies like Sis said that I never thought of it like that...''
Namine fought off her returning irritation with the older woman. Makoto didn't need this right now ''Now that you mention it...I'm beginning to see what you meant when you said your paths are different.''
"It looks more and more like they are...I suppose what we pulled off lately has me reflecting, like what my father would do if he had to deal with someone like President Okumura. Would he try to understand like we did or would he arrest him? I think our approach might be for the best but I can't help wondering...how we could ensure justice would take place.''
"That's fine too-we have to take in account that he could actually get killed if the criminal realizes that the truth got out. He really does regret what he did, this way maybe he and Haru can be a family again.'' Namine remarked.
She stopped to think for a bit before carrying on ''But going with what you said about your dad, wouldn't he try to do what's right in the end? It's because that we got to talk to the President that we really know what's going on. Making sure justice would take place isn't easy but it's something worthwhile, we have to understand what we really should be doing here. It isn't a black and white matter, the world isn't that simple. We can make a difference so we should put our power to good use, isn't that what we agreed on? Sure, we're still figuring things out but that doesn't mean our goal is impossible. We'd definitely need our reliable Miss Prez to make it happen.''
Makoto began to smile ''...Likewise, I couldn't imagine progressing with this goal without all of you. I made a promise not to hesitate, to keep going forward with all my power. And I intend to keep that promise.''
"There you go, with that kind of drive, you're golden.''
She chuckled, her heart feeling lighter than it had in a while. Once again, she could only wonder how her friend had turned out to be such a good person after her experiences but she was so glad that they were friends.
The thought brought back a tendril of guilt as she considered the other matter she had in mind. Namine was one of the people she trusted the most and yet...
"Namine, what would you think if...?'' The other girl gave her a curious look, Makoto lowering her head. ''...it's nothing, thank you for today.''
"Oh-um, sure.'' Something still wasn't right here...
The next morning...
Sojiro's gave a satisfied hum as he sipped the coffee Namine finished making ''Huh, not bad. You're definitely getting better at this.''
The girl returned his smile ''Well, it's all thanks to my teacher. Besides, I just got some really good advice.''
"Oh yeah?''
''Haru's liked coffee for a long time; she learned to make it from her grandpa. I think she's almost as much of a connoisseur as you when it comes to this stuff.''
"You don't say...'' Sojiro smirked. ''...I knew that girl had great taste. But I gotta say, I'm especially glad you don't follow your own grandpa in this.''
"Boss, don't even go there.'' Namine couldn't help cringing, because she knew exactly what he meant. Itsuki's preference in coffee had put her off the stuff for quite a while. ''I still remember how bad his coffee smelled. I made the mistake of saying it kind of looked like sludge and he never let it go for days. Grandma tried to teach him to change things. Of course now, it...''
"...still looks like sludge.'' The two found themselves saying in tandem, breaking into laughter.
Morgana hummed happily as Namine continued strumming the guitar, they had just been taking a break while Fujitaka went to check something back at home. Since he tended to leave Asuka in charge anyway, the girl suggested a demonstration of Namine's skills...
Asuka listened with a wide smile ''I never would've known you stopped playing for months, Namine-chan. That was great!''
''Thanks, Asuka-san.'' She put the guitar back before joining her. ''I've been meaning to ask-you were saying something about recent renovations when I came in...''
"Oh, yeah. Uncle Fuji just finished sorting everything out. This store actually belonged to one of his teachers; he was a really good friend of the family too. He lost the store because a corrupt businessman tried to take it from him and that jackass ruined it. He and Uncle both loved music and he always wanted to get the store back up and running. Only he died before he could ever return and Uncle Fuji decided to do it for him.''
"Wow...'' Morgana trailed off.
"That's a great thing to do...'' Namine started.
"Well, I'm glad you think so.'' Both girls almost jumped at the new voice, an amused Fujitaka watching them. ''This place was a source of great memories for me and a number of my friends. I hated to see it ruined because of greed. By the way, I have to say that was very well done, Hyakuya-chan.''
"Thanks. Asuka-san let me practice one of the stored guitars. You've got an awesome selection here.''
He chuckled ''Glad you like it. Actually, on the subject of guitars, I found a certain something that might interest you two...''
Fujitaka produced a sheaf of papers that left the three surprised. Asuka blinked twice ''Uncle Fuji, are those…?
"Mmhm, one of Miyano-sensei's relatives sent that to me. It seems he took to writing music in recent years but he hardly showed those to anyone. Would either of you care for a little practice with me?" The girls intrigued expressions giving him the answer.
A short while later...
Namine watched a few people talking animatedly with Yoshida with growing contentment She couldn't hear what they were saying from here but their friendly expression were certainly a good sign. Things had sure changed since he started really speaking out; people were looking forward to his speeches.
"Looks like someone's a real hit around here.'' Morgana remarked with a grin.
"That's for sure.'' Namine was about to approach the man when a few of the passerby greeted her, being familiar with her from the times she helped Yoshida.
This brought the former politician's attention to her ''Ah, hello-Namine-chan. I just ran into those people at the beef bowl shop and they were all saying how my speeches made them see take a whole new perspective on many things.''
"Hey, that's great! They're finally listening to you for real.'' He chuckled. ''I thought I'd say hi. I was thinking it's been a while since we talked but things have been crazy.''
"Yes, I can imagine...Shujin must have been chaotic because of what happened to your principal.'' Yoshida remarked.
She nodded ''It's been one thing after the other. The police are apparently still convinced the Phantom Thieves were behind that accident even though there's nothing to show for it. But they think the calling card's enough proof to blame them for everything-like the shutdown incidents.''
"I've heard something along those lines. It sounds absurd though-I find it hard to believe that a group like the Phantom Thieves could go by unnoticed for over two years. From what I've come to learn about them, the accusations seem to be baseless.'' Yoshida reasoned.
Namine couldn't help the sense of relief she felt at those words ''I think so too. Anyway, how's the campaign going?''
The two began talking about Yoshida's plans and how to continue with the campaign...
Yoshida found himself curious by something Namine let slip ''Do you mean the pace in that shop is always so hectic?''
''Yup, it was crazy. I don't even know how they keep the place running. There was only one guy running practically everything. I heard something about the business doing budget cuts but come on...''
She'd once considered taking a part time job at the shop but even Ryuji (with his love of beef and meat) admitted that he wouldn't be caught dead working there. That was really saying a lot. ''...I mean, there's being cheap and then there's...that.''
"That is worrying.'' Yoshida had a thought. ''Perhaps I could...''
But before he could finish the thought, his phone rang ''Hello?'' Yoshida blinked. ''Matushita? What is it?''
Matshushita greeted the pair as they approached, moving straight to business "I heard you met with Kuramoto's grandson.''
Yoshida expected the he knew ''You have your ears to the ground, huh? And to think that he's the only candidate the party is backing to ruin my chances of winning.''
''I'll be completely straight with you, since I already asked you to be my right hand man. We're currently fighting the Kuramoto group.'' Matushita stated, crossing his arms.
"You're fighting with Kuramoto-san?!''
"I have ambitions of my own, you know. I owe him for all he did but I don't want him to have influence over me forever. All the more, now that he's secretly working with Diet members from other parties. I know he asked you to join his group but I think you should decline.'' Matsushita paused. ''They want to keep you on a leash so you won't reveal any damaging information. The real culprit of the expense misappropriation case you were blamed for...is old man Kuramoto.''
Whatever they expected, it certainly wasn't that.
"What did you say?!''
''Back up a few! Your teacher's the one who ruined his career?'' Namine asked.
Matsushita nodded ''I was shocked too but that's why I searched through the party's off the record accounts from 20 years ago...there's no doubt. Can you still forgive him? He led you into the political world and kicked you out in the worst way!''
"But why?'' Yoshida looked down, both present thieves sparing him concerned glances.
Morgana's gaze narrowed, Yoshida hadn't just supported them. He was open to giving them a chance and he did his best to help others. This was cruel. ''What a piece of work...''
"It sounds as if you're saying this is the opportunity to clear my name...and so you need an answer from me on whether or not I'll be your right hand man, yes?'' Yoshida clarified.
The latter nodded ''His own grandson already tried to persuade you. I can't wait any longer. If you join me, you can accuse Kuramoto. You can clear you name and put No Good Tora behind you. This is your best and last chance!''
"Join with Matsushita and take my revenge but drop out of the election...'' Yoshida summarized.
Namine spoke up after a while, feeling that she couldn't just watch ''...For what it's worth, I don't think you should do it. Remember what we talked about at the restaurant?''
Her mentor thought that over ''Matsushita...I appreciate the offer but I must decline.''
''You have no conceivable REASON to!''
Yoshida's expression was firm "My goal is to become a member of the Diet, not a right hand man. I refuse to cast aside my beliefs."
''This information would be the deciding factor in taking down Kuramoto...''
"I'm sorry.'' While Yoshida had no intention of backing down, he also felt bad for causing his friend distress.
"Don't worry about it. I was simply offering you a deal. I assumed you might decline. Very well please forget it, I'll talk to the party an provide support for your next speech about the Phantom Thieves.'' Matsushita declared.
This was news to the listeners. He was planning to talk about them?
Yoshida was confused ''Why?''
"I don't want a debate. I simply want to draw attention to them. And you can assert your innocence on a grand stage. To be frank, I'll be happy as long as the Kuramoto group's influence diminishes. Hyakuya-san...Don't speak a word of this for anyone, for both of our sakes.'' He walked away after the girl nodded, leaving the two to contemplate it all.
Yoshida exhaled ''I'm caught in the crossfire of a political conspiracy. My friend is taking advantage of me and my former mentor is trying to win me over. To achieve my dream, I may have to set aside my beliefs..."
"Well, setting aside your beliefs...'' Namine considered her next words ''...won't it be like what you told me before? Not really doing it for any right reason. I understand that you're upset but would going for payback make you feel better? You've done so well so far. I don't think revenge would be worth it. Try focusing on the elections-at least that sounds right to me.''
"Indeed, this would be all futile if I don't become a Diet member. I must focus on getting re-elected. However, betraying oneself to reach a goal would be a hollow victory indeed.'' Yoshida smiled. ''For some reason, just talking with you always helps me make up my mind. It's as if my heart is being manipulated.''
"Really?'' Namine hummed in thought ''Well, maybe it's more like you just need something of a sounding board since you seem to know the answers. Besides, everyone could use a helping hand every now and then.''
He chuckled ''That maybe so...perhaps, the Phantom Thieves are very much like you.'' The girl started. ''For some reason you stood by me, No-Good Tora, who didn't have any supporters. I've been thinking about this for a while actually. I noticed by the look in your eyes that you've experienced cruelty and injustice. That's why I sense your sincere desire to help the weak. Not to mention the strength to stand up to the hecklers, to Matushita and Kuramoto-kun. You're no ordinary high schooler, there's no doubt in my mind. Would you care to...talk about it?''
"T-that's...'' Namine didn't mind, Yoshida was one of those she knew she could trust with the truth. It was just that this was coming out of left field. ''...you've been pretty upfront with me-so yeah...''
"Ah, apologies, it seems I've made you uncomfortable. I've always lacked restraint in these situations.'' Yoshida assured ''But I would appreciate getting to know you better after all you've done. For now, I'll at least make good use of Matsushita's help setting up my next speech. I feel like I'll be able to fully express my beliefs if you're there with me. We can discuss this then.''
"Right.''
Makoto smiled to herself, looking over the last of friends' texts. After coming clean to them about yesterday, she was touched to see them all express their concern. Though some, like Morgana, Haru and Takuto took time to scold her for forcing herself even when the day was difficult on her-she knew it was just proof of how they cared.
As she approached Leblanc, the girl found Namine, Morgana and Futaba near the entrance, focused on the first's phone. Futaba was snickering while Morgana seemed to be sighing in exasperation. What was going on?
"Didn't he learn from the last time?'' The cat turned as he heard Makoto approaching. ''Oh, hey!'' Both Futaba and Namine looked over at her and smiled. ''Get this-apparently, Ryuji and a couple of the track team members want to try the Big Bang challenge. For some reason, they're trying to drag Mishima into it.''
"...I see Ryuji's track record of 'great' ideas continues.''
Morgana snorted while the other girls laughed ''I know, right?''
Shaking her head, Namine focused on the group chat she had with Ryuji and Mishima.
HN: For the record, Mishima-kun, I see I've got little chance to convince you. So all I'm going to say is remember Hawaii?
Futaba made a questioning noise, Mishima responding after a few moments...
MY: Oh, gods-you're right...forget it, I'm not doing this.
SR: Aw come on, man!
MY: It's definitely not worth it.
HN: Finally, some sense. Is this some sort of male pride thing again, Ryuji? Do I need to remind you of your last Big Bang Challenge?
SR: Oi, that's not...that was a fluke!
HN: If you say so. Anyway, we're going to the arcade. If you guys are interested, you can meet us there.
In the end, the boys seemed to agree to drop the plan altogether for they found them waiting near the entrance. Futaba couldn't help shrinking closer to Namine and Makoto at the amount of people present. The brunette noticed Mishima's gaze ''Oh, ah-the thing about Futaba...''
"It's okay, I heard from Sakamoto. You're trying to get her over that phobia, that's real nice of you.''
"Come on, Futaba. You'll like it here. I think you'd know a couple of the games they have.'' Ryuji patted her shoulder. ''I'm pretty sure they've got at least a couple of the classics here.''
Futaba perked up ''Ooh, really? Show me!''
Quickly getting immersed in the games, Futaba was soon having a blast. Left in awe of her performance, Mishima then learned that she was none other than Alibaba, which led to her friends discovering that she actually used the name a lot in gaming tournaments.
"You don't see anything wrong with that?'' Morgana demanded. ''I mean, come on-Alibaba's well...you know...''
"Psh, you worry too much, kitty.'' Futaba waved a dismissive hand, watching the boys compete on one of the fighting games. ''Who was going to suspect a gamer doing what I did back then? Besides, I was careful to cover my tracks. It was back when using my first name so I figured it was safe.''
"Well, I guess that makes sense...'' Mishima's cheer cut him off.
"You really are good, Mishima-kun. Ryuji never stood a chance.'' Makoto noted.
"Hehe, thanks. I'm actually surprised with you, Miss Prez. You were really kicking butt back there-I didn't think you'd be the type to get into games.''
"Just goes to show, huh? She's full of surprises.'' Ryuji pointed out.
That was something Mishima could agree with ''No kidding. Soo, anyone got a suggestion on what to try next?''
''How about that racing game at the corner? The one with all those neat rides on the screen!'' Futaba pointed it out.
"Well, let's go then.'' Namine returned.
Once they arrived, Futaba took the first turn and Makoto went next. Ryuji looked at the girl with a grin as Mishima took his turn. ''Figures you'd go for a motorcycle...''
"You sure seem to like them. Ever consider buying one before?'' Morgana blinked at the girls' expressions.
''Morgana, have you met my sister?''
The feline could easily imagine how well such a suggestion would fly. ''...Point taken.''
"Hey, what's going on over there?''
They followed Futaba's line of sight to find her watching a crowd gather around a game called Gun About. Two people were playing against each other, one was a young boy with dark hair and eyes, with a red hat. The other appeared to be somewhat older, almost around the group's own ages.
The boy was winning easily...and they could hear whispers about this. Supposedly, this was a usual occurrence and most of them had never ever seen the boy lose.
"Wait, he never lost? That can't be right...'' Morgana trailed off.
"I think that might be the King!'' Futaba exclaimed. ''I heard of this one guy who's crazy good at Gun About. He's good with plenty of games but he always dominated tournaments with that game. Let's go see!''
As it turned out, she was right, the crowd's murmurs providing the name of said king, Oda Shinya. Not many challenged him nowadays, knowing his reputation. But despite his victory, he didn't seem to care much.
There were a few present who tried to get him to face them (like Mishima) but he easily turned them down and walked away.
"He's kinda cold...'' Futaba noted, Makoto pursing her lips in disapproval.
"And rude as well-there's no need to talk to people like that.''
Morgana blinked ''He looks kind of fed-up...wonder what's up with that.''
"Yeah...'' Namine glanced at the young boy's retreating figure. ''...well, come on, let's keep going.''
As they were about to leave...
''That was some good fun!'' Ryuji stated.
"Better than stuffing your faces with meat until you drop, isn't it?'' Futaba chirped.
The boy crossed his arms ''You don't gotta say it like that...''
Makoto quirked a brow ''Isn't that what you basically do in those ridiculous challenges?''
Mishima snickered, Namine looking amused as the boy spoke ''Sounds about right...before I really knew it, I got used to hanging out with friends again...''
"Come on, it's not that weird, right?'' Ryuji cocked his head.
"Yeah, we're all friends here.'' Namine added.
"I know...'' He gave them a grateful smile. ''...I was just thinking back to what it was like back when I was starting out in Shujin...and all what went down before that. It's weird to think that it's only been a few months when so much happened. I just wound up focusing on getting through, I never could've imagined things would wind up like this.''
I know just what you mean...life always has a way of surprising us. It's up to us to make the most of the opportunities that come our way. Look at us now, I'd say we're all miles ahead of where we'd been months ago.'' Makoto added.
''Heh, I hear ya, Makoto. And things will just keep looking up from here on out.'' Ryuji declared confidently.
Namine smiled and nodded ''We'll make sure of that.''
Well, let's stop here.
I've been struggling with this chapter for a while. I must've re-wrote it at least three times. I couldn't really focus on writing for days now so I hope this was good.
To clear things up, back in Hawaii Mishima told Namine to help if it looked like he was dealing with another troublesome idea like what happened back there. Sorry, through all that happened during the change of heart, I realized I completely forgot about Okumura's treasure. But yeah, he had it on him all along. The team could've taken it if Circe and Pluto hadn't shown up when they did. With the time running short, all they could do was leave before the palace blew up.
But they did make Okumura see the error of his ways so the consequences are different here. He's just doing as he promised. He sees how much damage he caused so he's working on fixing things. You'll see more surrounding this subject and more stuff next chapter.
Thanks 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 6)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 6)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 7)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank Max)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 8)
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 5)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 5)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 6)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 4)
Iwai Munehisa(Hanged Man Rank 3)
Sakura Futaba (Hermit Rank 3)
Nijima Sae (Judgement Rank 2)
Maruki Takuto (Councillor Rank 2)