Vangran: I figure people would be trying to guess who our new friend is but it'll be a secret for now, wonder how the reveal would go down...But yeah, I agree with you about the prison. I get that the people in the game are apathetic but it seems a bit much to think that so many people give up on their freedom, at least to me, so I want to handle that a little differently.
Defender31415: Thanks, the idea with the gun was too good not to try. That spirit is a special case and her identity will be revealed later.
Gotham317: Well, you're not far off the mark as it does align with Namine and Yusuke's behaviors. It also fits in my plans. There's a couple of events I want to happen first before things begin going in that direction, though. Oh-both events are in this arc.
Namine was still unsure what to make of their latest excursion to Mementos, the reason of course being that spirit. While she didn't regret choosing to help her, that didn't mean her questions didn't remain. Something felt so different about her, she didn't know if it was the fact that she was so weak at the time of their encounter or if there was more to it. Even stranger, she may have harbored the spirit but she could hardly feel her, nothing like Arsene and the Personas she came to acquire as the Wild Card.
She held back a sigh. Honestly, sometimes it seemed like the more they learned about the Cognitive World, the more mysteries they found.
"Oh, there's Hyakuya-'' A couple of the track team members appeared before Nakaoka came over. ''-hey, can you come over real quick? We could use really use some help.''
"Ah, I guess so.'' Namine tilted her head. ''What's going on?''
Namine stared at the scene in front of them incredulously ''...All this is over pick up lines?''
Nakaoka gave her a look that said he completely commiserated before nodding. Morgana took a discreet peek out of her bag, blinking twice in confusion. There were Ryuji and Gozaka arguing over whether or not it was good to use pick up lines on their dates. Most of their friends opted to stay out of it but others were occasionally putting in their piece, failing to stop them.
Hearing one of the boys' comments made Namine pause ''Is this usual for you guys?''
"We used to get into some arguments over stuff every once in a while. It gets to be a real pain because Sakamoto and Gozaka are about as stubborn as each other. I don't need to tell you what that means, right?''
He really, really didn't ''...How did you not strangle them?''
Nakaoka snorted ''I'll tell you when I find out.'' Shaking his head, he carried on. ''Anyway, Gozaka says and the others agree that they won't get it so they voted for testing them on a girl to try it out. The whole thing's idiotic but now they won't let this go anytime soon so...I tried to think of a girl who would be nice enough to play along and hopefully not make things worse. You were the first who came to mind.''
Namine and Morgana were surprised, though the latter couldn't help smiling. Ridiculous as all this was, it meant he at least trusted Namine enough to help. That was pretty good to hear after all what happened.
"Well, thanks! So how do we do this?'' Namine glanced back at the squabbling boys.
"Eff that!'' Ryuji exclaimed when they explained the idea. ''Dude, you got Namine so he can hit on her...?''
The girl in question rolled her eyes ''Ryuji, he's trying to prepare for a date, remember? You guys are being complete blockheads...''
"Hey!''
"...so this looks like the best way forward.'' She finished as if Ryuji and Gozaka had not spoken, though the observers looked rather amused. ''You wanted a girl's perspective so come on, Gozaka-kun.''
''Ah, r-right...'' The boy took out a small sheet of paper and cleared his throat. ''...are you on a loan? Because you sure have my interest. Or maybe...A-any chance...any chance you have an extra heart? Mine's been stolen. I'd...I'd say God bless you, but it looks like he already has...''
Namine didn't have much of an opinion on pick up lines-though some could truly be beyond ridiculous. Her first experience with them wasn't all that nice but Gozaka did need the help. After all, she sighed as a few of the boys started snickering while he continued, it wasn't like he was going to get much of that here.
Gozaka couldn't meet anyone's gaze now ''...a-are you a broom? Because you've swept me off my feet...'' .
He groaned as some of the boys broke into laughter. Namine cleared her throat pointedly, looking at the group with distinct annoyance before her eyes settled on the now embarrassed Ryuji. Boys, honestly!
''Ignore the rabble. Now-it's hard to give you a complete answer because it really depends on how the person feels about it. But some of them were actually good, you're obviously not comfortable with this but you're trying because you want things to work. Going out of your comfort zone like that is good-it means you're trying to go the extra mile.''
"Y-you think so?''
"Sure, it's nice that you care this much. But I'd have to say, don't force it either. Don't say the lines if you're not comfortable with them, that'd just make thing awkward. So long as you try to show your date a good time and you enjoy being together then that's enough. You should be yourself-anyone who gives you flak over that isn't worth your time.''
The girl paused, now a bit sheepish ''Erm, I don't know if that's what you were looking for...''
"Nah, it's perfect...'' Gozaka began to smile. ''...I was really spinning circles around this thing. Using the lines was just an idea from my cousin so I figured it couldn't hurt but yeah, I like what you're saying. There's no point in any of this if I can't even be myself around her. I know just what to do now-'' He started as the bell rang. ''-crap, better go. Thanks a bunch, Hyakuya!''
"That was really nice of you.'' Morgana commented as a few of the track team expressed their gratitude before heading off.
"Glad it worked, I just figure his help was pretty poor as it were.'' Namine added, sparing Ryuji a pointed look.
He snorted ''I'll say. And here I thought you could actually learn a little tact-shows what I know, right?''
"Shut up, cat!''
"Okay, now you're just pulling my leg...'' Mishima stared at the snickering Ann. ''...I can totally picture Sakamoto eating that challenge burger but you're telling me he lost? And to Kitagawa-san of all people?''
''We couldn't believe it either. Yusuke just said it was a good opportunity but I seriously don't know how they can eat all of that. You glad Namine talked sense into you the other day?''
"Ahaha, you heard about that?'' The boy knew she meant the day Ryuji goaded him into trying the challenge. ''Yeah, I sure owe her...oh!'' He pausing, nticing Namine enter the class. The three exchanged greetings before taking their seats as Kawakami came in.
She looked better already, having been under enforced bed rest from the nurse for the last couple of days. But more than that, she was happier than any of them had seen her in a long time. As if a heavy weight was taken off her shoulders, it was a pleasant sight.
Ann quickly typed something on her phone and held up the screen towards the passing teacher. Kawakami's smile widened as she gave a subtle nod. The blonde perked up before turning to Namine, showing her the message. Namine smiled, it was always nice to have proof of the changes of heart. And Kawakami had just given some, the Takases had finally began rectifying their mistakes.
Kawakami stopped them after classes were done for a little talk...
"You were right, the Phantom Thieves did it! I was worried when they got in touch with me but they just started apologizing. They promised to return the money and...I think they feel terrible about Takase-kun too. They finally admitted what a good kid he was.''
"That's great, Sensei!'' Ann returned.
Namine nodded ''I'm glad, it's what you deserve.''
"Hah, I wonder...it reminds me of what it was like after the rally. It's like a big weight is off my chest...'' The woman trailed off. ''...I told myself I wouldn't fail any student again like I did Takase-kun but I just cowered because of their threat. Sometimes it felt like I was hardly living, just going through the motions. And this is thanks to them...even with the public's opinion changing, a lot of people in school think the Phantom Thieves are heroes. Does someone like me even deserve help from people like that?''
Ann frowned ''It's not about deserving, anyone can ask for help-it's nothing to be ashamed of. No one should be left alone to suffer.''
She gave a slight nod but her expression remained somewhat troubled. They could tell she still felt that she wasn't worthy due to her past behavior. Namine thought that while Kawakami may not have been the best teacher, she was a good person who actually did care for her students. Her circumstances just made showing that difficult.
"...Then change that.'' The two looked at Namine. ''What's the point of beating yourself up over what happened? If you really think that you're the kind of person who really doesn't deserve to be helped, then change that and be better.''
Kawakami blinked twice ''...You're not going to tell me I was wrong to think those things...?''
"Would you listen if I did?'' The girl shot back. ''Exactly. I do agree with Ann but I'm sure you have your reasons so the best thing would be to do take a step forward.''
The woman laughed a bit ''...You really are something else, Hyakuya-chan. Kamoshida tried to ruin you right from the get go but you stayed strong-even against those awful rumors. Look at you now...'' Namine blinked. ''...you don't even know, do you? Your reputation's just getting better and better since you're proving yourself everyday. The administration would probably they 'rehabilitated' you but we know they may as well have been next to useless. Not that I can claim to be much better-I just treated you like a criminal anyway but you kept helping me...why?''
"Does there have to be a reason? I felt like it.'' Truthfully, she'd stopped paying attention to what the students mentioned about her a long time ago so she really had no idea what Kawakami meant. ''Those two really ticked me off and I think you and Takase deserved much better than this. It's nothing special. I'm not the kind of person who can turn away from something I know is wrong, that's all.''
"I stand by my words. But I like what you're saying too...yeah, I can and will change for the better. I'm quitting my part-time job. I want to become a teacher who takes care of her students and earns their trust. To the two of you and your friends of course...'' Kawakami returned earnestly. ''...I'll probably be an old lady when that happens though.''
"...And here I thought we were finally seeing optimism from her.'' Namine gave Ann a bland look, the blonde giggling.
''Yeah, same old Sensei.''
"Hey! Am I really that gloomy?'' Kawakami put on a mock offended tone but the girls just laughed, she couldn't find it in her not to smile. ''...I think Takase-kun could've been great friends with you. I'm touched you went through the trouble to try helping me all this time-I really understand how you all felt when the Phantom Thieves helped the school before. I have this second chance to make things right and I won't waste it.''
Sae pursed her lips as she entered her office, having just finished talking to two epople she knew were targeted by the Phantom Thieves. They couldn't tell her much about any of what happened, but both were actually thankful for the group's intervention.
What really threw her off was the second person, Koizumi Hisashi, who admitted to having been in an absolutely terrible state before they intervened. He was the one who asked them to kill him in the first place. But according to his cousin, not only had they refused, they somehow stopped him from committing suicide and it was thanks in good part to their efforts that he could begin making amends with his cousin. A part of her found herself relating to him to an uncomfortable degree-she knew all too well what it was like to be faced with such responsiblities too soon.
And to think he was just one of those the Phantom Thieves helped...
None of it made any sense! The thieves were criminals-they had to be-they were the ones behind the incidents over the last two years. It was bad enough they made a mockery of the law but other than that, who else could it be? No one else had such abilities...
The prosecutor thought back to Miura's words, the man firmly pointing out that she was more than likely grasping at straws. How could the Phantom Thieves had gone undetected over the last two years? They helped so many people-why would they start killing now? She hated that she had no answer whatsoever.
Sae wondered if she should search another venue for information. The thieves' targets were hardly aware of what happened to them and for some reason, her superiors refused to let her talk to Kamoshida, Madarame and Kaneshiro. Maybe she could find other people who could have at information about them...like those connected to the media...
She suddenly remembered the encounter at Takuto's office where the kids rebuked her line of thinking and firmly stood up for the thieves. They were just naive-they had to be...right?
Namine went to Crossroads after receving a call from Lala, who wanted to talk about their deal regarding Tsukasa...
"Well, I couldn't find much...'' The bartender said with a hint of apology in her tone. ''...but I'm still looking into it. Thing is, I talked to this one girl the other day and she slammed the door in my face the second I mentioned him. That girl Eiko is really naive, it's true that hosts having a bad reputation has been going on forever. The problem is there's a damn good reason for that-I met a bunch of hosts before...only a few of them mean well.''
That Tsukasa wasn't one of them went unsaid but was highly implied. Namine bit her lip ''I completely agree but I don't know how we can convince her...''
"Figured as much. She's gone and bought into them having the romance of a lifetime, huh?'' Lala shook her head. ''By the way, you said your friend was a Nijima?'' A nod. ''I heard about an Officer Nijima lately-supposedly, he put some of the worst of those scum who take advantage of girls away. People suspect that they decided to get even. He sounds like a real stand up guy, it's a shame what happened.''
Morgana blinked ''Wait, does she know who...?''
"Lala-san, does this mean you know who caused that incident?'' Namine voiced the question for the both of them.
But she shook her head ''It's just a bunch of rumors and hearsay. I hear a few people tried to get him to back off, said he was messing with more tthan he could chew but he ignored them. From what I heard, things were a bit like with Kaneshiro-people had a lot of power and it spooked others into not towing the line. Nijima wouldn't give up-he actually saved a whole bunch of victims. I respect that, the man had a lot of heart. Makoto-chan sounds like a good, reliable kid. Her sister on the other hand...it looks like the apple fell far from the tree.'' Namine gave her a curious look ''I get all sorts of people here, kiddo. A few of them mentioned dealing with Nijima Sae, she's a pretty good prosecutor but they all agree that she's ruthless. It's like she's determined to do whatever it takes to win and damn the consequences.''
"I know what you mean-she almost ruined one of my friends' lives.'' Namine wanted to give Sae a chance, for Makoto's sake if nothing else. But the woman was reminding her more and more of the adults who helped screw her over. It was disappointing that even after confessing to feeling guilty about what happened with the Sakuras she had yet to apologize. Sae was hardly anything like the stories they heard from the brunette.
Lala hummed after the girl told her about the confrontation at the train station a few days ago ''Damn, that's just...'' She shook her head. ''...the guy was killed before they could free him? No wonder his brother's mad-what'd she say to that?''
"No idea...'' Namine subtly glanced at Morgana, who shook his head. Neither of them had thought to ask the girl for anymore details after that encounter...
"Anyway, this may not be much of a start but it's still a bad sign. I'll keep looking.'' Lala assured.
The girl thanked her, glancing at the table where she usually sat with Ohya for a moment. ''...Do you know what's going on with Ohya-san? She was pretty busy after the prison incident-then I saw her yesterday and it kind of looked like she was all over the place.''
"I'd say she is, kid.'' A sigh. ''It's that shithead boss of hers. He's working her to the bone with the interest going strong about the Phantom Thieves. Ichiko-chan's really good at her job and he wants to make strike while the iron's hot. Never mind that he's really overdoing it with that quota-she's afraid that he found out about her investigation.''
"Wait, is it really so bad? I mean, I get that he likely doesn't want her distracted but...''
"Got me-you know what she's like when really drunk. It took me a while to get the details straight but she seems to think he has reasons for wanting to stop her. That's all she'd say about it though.'' Lala admitted.
That was definitely peculiar. Was Ohya overthinking this or could there really be more to it...?
"I think she's been looking to talk to you now that she's gotten things under control-not that she'd admit it, of course.'' The bartender added with a snort that elicited an amused look from Namine. ''Ichiko-chan keeps forgetting that I've known her and Kayo for so long. She wants to handle this mess all on her own but she's out of her mind if she thinks I'll let that happen.''
The girl began to smile, knowing how much Lala cared. That no matter how much Ohya's drunken antics annoyed her, they were still good friends. ''Lala-san on the warpath, we better each out.''
This had the effect she hoped for as Lala chuckled. The bartender knew very well that she could rely on the girl ''...And don't you forget it, Namine-chan.''
Half an hour later, they passed through Shibuya...
Morgana perked up ''Oh, so the ADP's finally getting their act together.''
"Looks like it.'' Namine recalled the call from Chihaya yesterday. ''Chihaya-san sounded pretty happy-she wants to meet up but she's going to be busy dealing with the mess the Chairman's confession caused. Some still don't want to believe it-sad to say, he's had them well and truly fooled.''
The cat hummed ''And Chihaya must be one of that group's central figures with her gift so I guess this makes sense...well, at least she's free-hm?'' He blinked, spotting a young teen talking to a number of people at the arcade's entrance. ''Huh...I could've sworn I saw this guy in one of Futaba's videos...''
Curious, Namine looked over as the growing crowd followed the boy. She could barely hear them talking in growing excited tones. Something about a famous gamer challenging the king...did that mean...?
After a moment of thought, the girl decided to follow them. A good number of people gathered around the game Gun About, where they spotted the boy. He was indeed playing against the boy they heard about earlier. None other than Oda Shinya, the King, a skilled player who was unmatched in Gun About. According to Morgana the teen from earlier was a famous gamer but even Namine had to admit that the King was making him look like a chump.
Come to think of it, hadn't they seen him on their last visit with Futaba? It had only been in passing but she was fairly sure it was the same kid.
"Man, see that? He bit off way more than he can chew.''
"No kidding, I told him the kid was good but the cocky idiot wouldn't listen.''
"He doesn't stand a chance.''
"That was looking to be the case-and indeed, the teen looked angry as he threw the game gun away. ''Y-you...you cheated! You had to have!''
The king looked rather unimpressed ''Get over yourself-I warned you, I know this game pretty well. You're the one who decided to try and show me up.'' The boy's growl was ignored ''You're just looking like an even bigger loser now.''
The young boy rolled his eyes as his opponent stormed off, the crowd appearing rather unimpressed with both of them. It seemed that even the arcade's regulars didn't think highly of the king.
"Man, I almost feel sorry for the guy...'' A passing boy stopped near the game, looking at Namine then. ''...oh, hey-care to play with me? My friends promised they'd be here soon so I'm killing time until they show up.''
"Ah, all right then.''
The two took their stations and grabbed the game's guns before it fired up again. The boy's experience helped him do better but he looked rather startled as Namine began catching on, her fast reflexes and experience with guns helping. A few onlookers watched with interest, drawing the king's attention.
In the end, Namine lost but it was close. The boy let out a breath, grinning ''That was fun-you were pretty good.''
"And you were better-this was my first time, actually.''
"Seriously?!''
"Beginner's luck?'' Namine offered
He snorted, giving her an amused look ''Sure, let's go with that.''
"Not bad at all.'' Morgana remarked as she picked up her bag while the boy thanked her and left. ''Guess your own experiences help, huh?''
She noticed the king watching with a raised eye ''...You've really never played before?''
"Nope-I did try some of the other games but I never had the chance to use this one. I've got good reflexes.''
"Sure looks that way.'' He agreed. ''...So you're really okay with losing?''
"Hm? Yeah...'' Namine tilted her head ''Not like I know anything about the game...''
"But what if you did?'' He pressed. ''What if you were the one with experience under your belt but lost to a newbie? Would you say the same?''
She thought that over ''It'd probably be at least a little upsetting but I'll get over it. It's not the end of the world, it means I just have to try harder.'' The king seemed a bit disgruntled ''Is it really that big of a deal?''
"...Nah, probably not to people who wouldn't take this seriously. I never lost before and I definitely don't intend to lose to anyone-especially not in Gun About.''
"Oh, so the rumors are true? I heard a few things from my friends...'' Namine had a thought. ''...hey, have you ever heard of Mishiman and Alibaba? They did a whole bunch of gaming tournaments.''
Shinya raised an eye ''The first one doesn't ring a bell but I know about Alibaba. Never went up against him but I hear he's really good.''
"Huh..so, what do you say to playing a game?'' She added, gesturing at Gun About.
"You want to...? Against me?''
"Why not? We're both here and the game's free.''
Shinya appeared a little taken aback for a moment before shrugging ''True-all right then...''
"Wow, you really are good. I never even knew some of these moves were possible!''
The boy didn't react to Namine's praise, not expecting her to take the loss so well. He could admit that she wasn't half bad for a beginner-it was true, she had pretty good reflexes and she seemed to learn quickly. The girl might have said she'd take the loss well but he hadn't quite believed her until now.
Both blinked at the sound of a ringtone before Namine took out her phone''Oh hi, Shiho! What's up?'' She blinked. ''...Is it really that bad? I mean, sure I can be over in a few minutes-okay, see you soon.''
She turned back to Shinya ''So, are you going to be coming back, your majesty?''
He huffed ''Don't call me that-it just sounds weird...''
Well, that was fair. She just wanted to see his reaction. ''Right. Well, I've got to go but I'm up for another game if we meet up again.''
The boy's surprise was clear ''I mean, yeah I come around a bunch. Nothing better to do but I guess that's okay...''
Namine bid him farewell and left, Morgana poking his head out of the bag ''For such a regular, people don't seem to like Oda much.'' The girl agreed and he went on ''What was that about anyway? Shiho needed your help with something?''
''Yeah, she's at Ann's place and apparently there's some sort of emergency in her room.''
Morgana's eyes widened ''Is she okay?!''
"Relax, Mona, I don't think it's that big of a deal. But it is weird...''
There wasn't trouble per se...but one look at Ann's room told them that the situation really did qualify for an emergency.
Ann's big walk-in closet was open and there were clothes all over the place. A number of boxes were on one side and a few shoes could be seen visible. There were also a couple of bags tossed aside on Ann's bed. In short, it was a disaster.
"...I see why this is an emergency.'' Makoto deadpanned as she joined them. ''How did it even get this bad, Ann?''
Shiho sighed ''You've all seen Ann at her worst when preparing for a shoot.''
Morgana blinked ''Oh...''
''Now it makes sense...'' The brunette muttered, because they were all too familiar with that. Ann was better about it now but she used to get so frantic that it was a time they came to dread.
"Hey...'' Ann gave them a dark look.
"...Ann, there's a reason we learned to duck around then.''
The girl huffed at Namine's blunt statement and Makoto shook her head ''Your caretaker seemed to have a good handle on things-but I assume this happened after she left?'' Ann sheepishly explained that she was looking for an outfit she knew would work for one of her more recent shoot, she just couldn't remember where she put it. She hadn't paid much attention to the resultant mess and everything went out of hand. ''We'll sort this out. But first we need to have a little talk...''
Sojiro listened with evident amusement as Namine told him and Futaba about the endeavor ''That bad, huh? It sounds even worse than Futaba's room.''
"You can say that again...'' The exasperated girl stated, missing Futaba giving them an annoyed look before taking a bite of her curry.
The expression was replaced with delight once she saw what time it was on her phone. Grabbing the remote, she quickly began to change the TV's channels.
"...Let me guess, Featherman?'' Morgana piped up. And indeed, it wasn't long before they spotted the logo onscreen. This was an all too familiar sight by now and neither Phantom Thief would be surprised if Futaba knew all about the coming episode.
The following day...
Fujitaka let out a sigh as he watched Asuka walk out of the store. Namine poked her head out of the storage room. ''Everything okay? I thought I heard yelling.''
"Ah, I'm afraid tempers might have ran high...''
The girl was confused, she'd gotten to know Fujitaka and his niece somewhat well by now. The man was one of the most easygoing people and patient she had ever seen-she'd never heard him so much raise his voice at anyone.
Apparently her expression gave her away because Fujitaka carried on ''...I'm fine, Namine-chan. Asuka's just gotten worked up trying to figure out what to do about her friend. Did she tell you one of that her childhood friends was the one who got her into music?''
Namine did remember something along those lines ''I think she mentioned writing one of her new songs about that friend.''
He nodded ''That friend had a cousin and they both wanted to be musicians since they were little. I never met them but from what Asuka mentioned, it sounds like her friend's passion is the one that kept them all going. Her friend died to an illness three years ago, Asuka really misses her but it also made her determined to become a succesful musician for the both of them. Her cousin...well, he just gave up. He seems to think they were both fools and he wishes he'd come to the realization sooner. He even blames the girl for what he considers a waste of time.''
"What?! That's a horrible thing to say. Even if he doesn't feel that way anymore, it doesn't give him the right to...''
"Oh, I agree that he went too far. And so does Asuka-she knows what it's like to struggle with your passion but he simply gave up. Now I don't know the whole story...but it's as if he discarded the memories of all those times they spent together and that's why she's so angry with him.'' Fujitaka grimaced.
Namine could definitely understand that. Asuka had been rather understanding when she told her about how she couldn't bring herself to enjoy music before. It looked like she'd experienced something similar in the past. ''Well, she can prove him wrong for sure...Actually, do you think she'd be up to play some music once my shift's done?''
Fujitaka smiled warmly, knowing Asuka would go for it ''That sounds like a splendid idea-in fact, I'll join you.''
I am thou, thou art I
Thou hast become a new vow
It shall become the wings of rebellion
That breaketh the chains of activity
With the birth of the Passion Arcana
I have obtained the winds of blessing that shall lead to freedom and a new power
"So, you ready?''
"As I'll ever be.'' Takemi returned as they entered the hospital.
It turned out that Miwa had actually been asking about Takemi, even before knowing of her involvement with the treatment. When the doctor learned that, she scrapped her plans for the day and asked Namine to join her.
"Looks like you made one good impression on her. Not that I'm surprised.'' Namine said brightly.
"I wouldn't know...I just saw a scared kid who was trying to be brave for her family's sake and I wanted to help so I tried my best.'' Takemi shrugged.
"Well, I'd it says you cared a lot. You want to bet Oyamada wouldn't have gone through half the trouble?''
The doctor snorted ''That's a sucker bet if I ever heard one.''
"Exactly. Is it any wonder she wants to see you?'' Namine paused as they arrived outside Miwa's room.
Takemi steeled herself, ignoring the butterflies in her stomach. This was something she awaited so long. Ever since she started working on the drug...her end goal had been Miwa's safety. To ensure that bright little girl could live a happy life. As someone who had been often sickly as a child, Takemi knew how much it meant to have good and caring support. She counted herself lucky to have had that as a child so she wanted to give back and worked hard to become a doctor.
She knew the drug was working but they had only recently begun the treatment. The doctor in charge assured her that Miwa was showing good improvement but the question remained, was she ready for this?
The doctor was startled out of her thoughts by Namine calling her name, receiving a reassuring smile ''Sensei, you've done all you could. Things are much better now, remember? It's thanks to you that things are looking up for the poor kid. She wouldn't have been asking if she didn't want to see you. Go on.''
Takemi let out a breath and nodded before heading into the room. Namine had been rather curious about Miwa for a while now but she was fine with giving them some space, it was about time Takemi got this chance.
She blinked at the sound of a squeal from the room which was followed by laughter. Well, at least it looked like things were good...
It wasn't long before a nurse stepped out of the room, informing Namine that Takemi wanted her to join them. She entered to find Takemi sitting at the side of a bed where a young girl who had to be Miwa was with a woman on the opposite side. Her brown hair framed her face, she appeared frail but had a sweet face. The young girl's bluish grey eyes looking at Namine with curiousity.
"You never said she was so cute, hi!'' The girl added. Miwa perked up and waved in return, seeming relieved that she was friendly.
Takemi spared her an amused glance before the woman who resembled Miwa a great deal spoke up ''Takemi-sensei has been telling us about you. It seems we have you to thank for helping her get back to her feet, I'd hate to think where would've been otherwise.''
"Ah, glad to help, but she probably would've managed it, Ma'am. She's brilliant.''
"...I don't think I would've been doing anywhere near as well if this kid hadn't come into my clinic out of the blue.'' Takemi admitted. ''There's no denying she makes things interesting.''
Miwa's mother appeared amused ''We didn't know what to think when those awful stories spread about you. Your advice helped Miwa so much and then that awful man...'' Her lips thinned at the thought of Oyamada. ''...just the fact that he kept stringing us along out of some inferiority complex, that he didn't even care who he hurt infuriates me. If it hadn't been for the Phantom Thieves we might not have been the wiser until it was too late...''
"I think they're great.'' Miwa chirped brightly. ''Everything's okay now, Mommy. It's okay because they've been looking out for everybody.''
A chuckle ''True...''
Namine smiled to herself ''So, how are you, Miwa-chan? You've had it rough but you seem pretty chipper.''
"I'm a lot better thanks to Sensei!'' The young girl beamed at Takemi. ''I get kinda tired still but they said it just needs time to really work. Everyone's nice here but it's boring sometimes...''
"Yeah, sticking around a place like this would get dull. What do you like to do? Is there anything to liven things up?''
"Well, I like drawing-I used to try making pictures like the ones in coloring books. And I have a lot of fun with animals-Mommy said we could get a pet! My friends from school told me about some cool anime that I want to watch...'' Miwa trailed off. ''...Daddy said he'd help me with that when he gets back. I can wait but...it'd be really nice if there was something fun now.''
The listeners couldn't help smiling at the sweet girl. She was obviously bored, as any child her age would be in this situation but she seemed to be almost reluctant to admit. It was evident she didn't want anyone to worry, which was surprisingly mature for someone so young.
"Well...'' Namine whispered something to the nurse, eliciting a warm smile.
''Oh, that won't be a problem. I'll sort things out!''
Namine explained for the confused onlookers' benefit ''...I just had an idea and she gave the okay. How about a little music?''
The little girl perked up ''Like what?''
"Oh, now THIS I have to hear.'' Takemi smirked, having an idea where this was going. ''I heard about your talents from Boss, someone's been holding out on me.''
Namine laughed a bit ''Not anymore...''
"Well, Boss didn't do that justice...'' Takemi remarked, both on their way out a while later. ''...not that I need to tell you when your fans must have done a great job of that.''
Namine snorted but didn't respond, knowing she meant the people who had been drawn out of curiosity when they heard her singing earlier. She'd done it for Miwa, who was thrilled so that was more than worth it. It was really nice of them to praise her but she definitely wasn't expecting that they'd gather an audience like that.
They'd left after spending some more time with Miwa and her mother as Miwa had to be taken for another round of treatment. But not before the young girl extracted promises from both her and Takemi to visit again. Miwa's mother had also exchanged contact information with Namine at the girl's behest, to the girl's delight. She really as a sweetheart, Namine was happy her health was improving.
"I guess it is true, Life is change...'' She mused.
"Getting philosophical on me, huh?'' Takemi quirked a brow.
"Just thinking...think back to a few months ago, would you have pictured yourself where you are now?''
"...As much as I told myself I'd keep working on the drug and figure it out as fast as possible, no. Oyamada had it out for me for a long time, he would've tried to ruin my work one way or the other.''
Namine nodded ''I get it-I didn't have any idea what I was supposed to do when I was brought here. It helped that Boss was my grandparents' friend but still...my whole plan was basically to lay low and hope that the probation period passes peacefully. I was going to ask my probation officer if I could just stay and not have go back to that town ever again. I didn't expect to find anyone who'd actually care about me but even that would've been better than going back there.''
Takemi couldn't find the words to respond. She thought knew how the arrest and its consequences affected her assistant but she'd never heard it put like that before. It was more than understandable though-she'd never want to go back to such a place either if it were her.
"I'm glad I was wrong though-I found plenty of good people here. Great friends who came through for me again and again.'' The girl carried on. ''You once asked me why I kept coming back to see you even when you fixed me up up, right? Well, there's your answer-it's because of those people. You all helped me a bunch so I tried to do the same in return.''
"...I say you went above and beyond, Namine.'' Takemi returned. ''I have a feeling your friends would agree. But I get where you're coming-if someone told me the kid assistant I picked out of the blue would have pushed to keep going like this, I probably would've laughed. I didn't know how to make heads or tails out of you. Looks like we've both made quite a turnaround...it turns out the nosy, sappy kid was my greatest support. You're the whole reason I could see Miwa-chan's smile again and I can't thank you enough for that.''
The girl smiled brightly, it wasn't too often that Takemi was open with her emotions like that. Both of them had changed for the better over the recent months ''Happy to help, Sensei, seeing you both today was its own reward. So, how do you plan to keep going now that you've made such strides? Got any plans?''
"A few.'' Takemi offered a small smirk as she hailed them a taxi. ''With Oyamada's mess out of the way, I can finally focus on working like the doctor I always wanted to be. You interested? I don't think you'd be familiar with the medical lingo.''
"Yeah but I can learn! What did you have in mind?''
Chuckling, the doctor leaned back in her seat as she began to explain...
I am thou, thou art I...
Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath...
Thy bond shall beocme the wings of rebellion and break the yoke of thy heart...
Thou hast awakened the ultimate secret of the Death, granting thee infinte power...
Well, let's stop here.
Just like Makoto relates to Akari, Sae knows what Hisashi's been dealing with all too well. Hearing what he went through rattled her. She's beginning to have doubts, even if she refuses to admit it, hearing many speak so highly of the thieves. It doesn't help that she doesn't have much evidence to her theories, hence why she's trying to learn what she can about the thieves and I plan for her to meet Ohya soon.
I was a bit stuck on what to do about Fujitaka and Asuka, they were always going to have a confidant but it was hard to choose the arcana. I narrowed it down to either Passion or Hope, I felt that both could work given their circumstances so I settled on Passion after learning what the tarot meant. Oh, Asuka doesn't know her friend's full circumstances yet as she's too angry with him but she will soon.
I always wondered what it'd be like to see Miwa after watching Takemi's confidant so I decided to try that here. It was a way to show how far things came for Takemi since-and Namine too in a way. Namine just described what it felt like for her right after the arrest. She didn't know what her grandparents would do-she'd just gotten betrayed by almost everyone she should've been able count on the most so suffice to say she had plenty of reason to expect the absolute worst. Even staying in the city on her own would've been preferrable than being sent to her former town. Helping the students with Kamoshida is something she was always going to do, it's just who she is. She definitely wasn't expecting to find herself like that or make the bonds she did along the way.
Welp, thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 8)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank Max)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank Max)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 6)
Igor (Aeon Rank 6)
Sakura Sojiro (Hierophant Rank 6)
Mishima Yuuki (Moon Rank 8)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank Max)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 8)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 6)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 7)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 7)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 5)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 6)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 5)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 7)
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 4)
Konno Fujitaka and Asuka (Passion Rank 3)