Ann couldn't help but stare at the scene before her.
Morgana was eating something Ryuji had plated for him, the boy taking his own portion with relish. Haru and Futaba were watching with evident amusement while Yusuke seemed to be in some sort of funk.
''...All right, I give-what's going on?''
Futaba was struggling not to laugh as Makoto shook her head ''I'm still not sure how but Yusuke's lobsters were cooked this morning.''
''Wait, seriously?'' She knew very well that despite how irritating the pair was. Yusuke clearly tried his best to care for them. Almost a little too well, in fact...
The artist muffled a groan as Hifumi spoke up ''Actually, where did he get those lobsters from again? He seemed quite attached to them.''
''It was back when we went to the beach in August.'' Futaba didn't think she'd be alone in believing Yusuke's lobsters were more of an annoyance to nearly everyone. There was a good reason he rarely took them out, if ever. The two pests seemed to make it a point to hurt anyone they could when the mood struck. How he put up with them for this long, she would never understand.
''You want some? This is damn good!'' Ryuji offered a box to Ann, who shrugged and took it.
''Oh, the inhumanity...my muses...''
Haru turned slightly at the sound of footsteps to find her maid leading Namine in the hall. Greeting her friends, the now curious girl sat down ''Why does Yusuke look like he's lost all hope in the world?''
''I can't even say that's dramatic. She pegged it.'' Ryuji commented to Futaba, who nodded before telling her about the lobsters.
''...okay, you're probably going to hate me for this, Yusuke but thank goodness.''
''Exactly!'' The hacker pointed at her, ignoring Yusuke's expression. ''Pout all you want, Inari but those things were a huge pain in the butt.''
Ryuji certainly agreed, the whole reason they even found it was Yusuke asking for his help in finding the pair earlier. Their disappearance was admittedly a relief but this was even better to him ''I lost track of how many times the damn things bit me.''
''I'm more surprised you managed to keep pets at all, given your situation.'' Hifumi admitted.
''That's 'cuz he took better care of them then he did himself.'' The blond informed.
Haru thought that summed it up nicely ''You did quite well all things considered. Perhaps, it just...wasn't meant to be?''
Ann rolled her eyes at Yusuke's forlorn sigh ''Moving on, any luck at the cafe?''
She perked up as Namine held up her phone and winked ''It's all set.'' Those in the know immediately caught on ''Anyway, Hifumi, everything good?''
''Oh, yes! Haru-chan has been very welcoming and my parents know I'll be spending time with friends. My mother won't suspect anything if I play along with her plans.''
''Not for long.'' Makoto assured, the girl smiling gratefully in return.
''So, this means you can come with us to the festival, right?'' Futaba clarified.
''I wouldn't miss it.''
Yusuke, Makoto and Ann had to leave shortly afterwards, the rest of the group taking the time for a quick chat while Hifumi was calling her dad.
RS: So, no Mementos today?
''It's not a good idea. About half our team is busy and given our recent attempts, I think it's safer to go with bigger numbers at least if not the whole team.'' Morgana's statement brought back to mind the battle with Circe and Hades, their encounter with the Black Mask and the second near run-in with Hades where they found Flora. They were all very well aware that things could've gone much, much worse just like that. It was indeed best not to take any chances.
HN: It's like we talked about before. At this point, we better stick with safety in numbers.
SF: Yup, too risky. Besides, we only found out about Hifumi's situation yesterday.
TA: So?
KY: Ah, I think I see. None of us even got around to telling Mishima to post the request so we can proceed. What is she going to think when her mother's heart is changed out of the blue?
SF: Bingo.
TA: Oof, good point.
OH: I don't like leaving things like this but you're right. It's risky. Can we get in touch with Mishima-kun soon to sort this out?
NM: Absolutely.
HN: Yeah, the important thing is now she knows we have her back. Let's just deal with what we can instead of worrying about stuff we can't control.
SR: Got it!
Sae looked over her recent findings, exhaling as she pushed the papers away. She just couldn't continue looking at it all the same way, not with all that happened. The prosecutor was honest enough with herself to admit that the reason preventing her from returning to Leblanc was shame, something that was only reinforced by her recent encounter with Namine and Akechi.
The two's words drove her to look into the Isshiki family, leading her to conclude that they had in fact been right to be concerned. None of them had even considered reaching out to Futaba, the only one who did was Wakaba's brother and even he was quite shady. If she understood this right, there was a high chance he was a poignant reason behind the girl's issues...had Sae's plan worked, Futaba might have wound up with him again...
She had overheard Makoto talking to her friends about the girl, during which the mention of a few men who read the suicide note to Futaba. Now that she thought about it, what was even the point? Why even condemn her to such an extent-the circumstances were strange. Having recently discovered accounts of people who witnessed mental shutdowns led her to believe that there was a chance Isshiki had one too. The symptoms described were a little vague but the similarity was startling.
The prosecutor had also made a point of looking over the files Ohya had eventually sent her way. She had certainly been thorough in her efforts. Investigating the woman brought the discovery of her partner's situation to attention, Murakami was apparently involved in an incident with a dead politician and the report claimed it was a crime of passion. However, Ohya's records made it clear that Murakami didn't even know of the man before that particular investigation started. The politician had been affiliated with a number of high up figures, including Shido Masayoshi.
Although, now that she thought about it, this wasn't the first time the man's name came up. According to her father's notes, the investigator who was one of the first mental shutdown victims talked about looking into such figures. She would have to check the notes again but she was almost sure Shido's name had been mentioned there.
Back when she'd been learning about Isshiki's work, she found out that Shido had approached her more than once, clearly very interested in her research. Come to think of it, hadn't Akechi mentioned another politician who had some matter of involvement in that burglary incident two years ago...? She wasn't clear on the details there but Miura-san brought it to her attention before, rightfully suspicious due to it being kept quiet. She knew the teen detective had been looking into it and the politician in question was another of Shido's affiliates...
Sae didn't know if this was grasping at straws but perhaps it was worth investigating the man. It may not give her the answers she sought but it may at least put those growing suspicions to rest.
One thing was for sure, something had to change-she wasn't about to continue carrying on the same way.
Asuka strummed one last note as the song ended, grinning as she turned back to Namine ''That's a wrap! Way to go, Namine-chan. Told you, you're ready for tomorrow!''
Her exuberance was infectious and Namine couldn't help smiling in return. Makoto had set it up as promised and the girl was to sing at the festival the next day so Asuka suggested a song for a little practice after her shift.
''Yup, you got've got this in the bag!''
Directing a grateful glance at Morgana, she responded to both of them ''I guess it's just jitters. I wouldn't have thought I'd do this just a week ago.''
''Fair enough, especially after the crap way that school treated you.'' At her surprise, the older girl explained. ''A couple of your friends showed up the other day. I recognized Takamaki-chan from the magazines and she was with Suzui-chan. They recognized a couple of her more experienced models who were interested in learning about music. But yeah, I don't think I would've wanted to play in a place like that either.''
''Well, things did get better and it's really more of a personal challenge in a way. I don't want to look back at this and regret not taking the chance.'' She confessed.
''You go, kiddo. That's a good attitude-can't wait to see that passion of yours onstage.'' Asuka beamed.
''I don't think anyone can top you there, Asuka-san.''
''Darn right!'' The older girl winked, grinning at her before they laughed. ''Seriously though, don't go undermining your efforts. You're making some damn good progress and it only gets better from here for the both of us-because we'll make sure of it, right?''
Namine's face lit up ''Right.''
Namine had to wonder once again, how Futaba kept track of anything in her room.
The hacker had called her up for help on her way back, Morgana having already left prior to take a nap. Sojiro and Makoto being particularly insistent that she keep her room clean. When the brunette decided to keep her from buying her snacks for the next few days, Futaba was galvanized into action.
''I get why she talks about eating healthy. I like healthy food too! She actually threatened to take my snacks for the week away. That's totally mean!'' The orange haired girl continued to gripe.
Much to her dismay, Namine had no sympathy for her ''That's what you get for procrastinating.'' She gathered a few papers tidied them. ''Honestly, how you handle this place is beyond me...so what do you want to do with those?'' No response. ''Futaba?''
The younger girl was focused on a somewhat old looking piece of paper. ''What's up?''
''This is one of the promise lists that I made with mom...see; everything on here is marked as being done. But that's...kinda wrong.''
''Wrong?'' Namine sat down on the bed.
''Mmhm, there was one promise I lied about doing...one I never actually finished. It was get along with Kana-chan...'' Futaba sighed. ''...This all started when I was in elementary school. I used to get bullied pretty hard for how weird I was. The other kids always accused me of cheating because I'd get perfect scores on my tests. Then one time I turned in a test with nothing written down but the school ended up yelling at my mom. Sometimes during recess, I'd lock myself in the bathroom and cry...''
Namine found herself thinking back to their visit to Shujin. Futaba had mentioned how bad school was for her but hearing it all was awful. People were really cruel sometimes. ''That...explains a lot about the other day.''
''Yeah, it just brought memories back...I didn't have a single friend...I was always alone.'' Futaba mused. ''But then a girl named Kana transferred to my school...She was absent a lot at first, then when she was there, the other kids bullied her like they did to me. But one day, she said something to me: Good morning. Then she started saying it every day.''
Knowing Futaba, she could imagine how that went ''Were you shocked?''
''Oh yeah! I mean, literally nobody wanted to talk to me back then. To be honest...I completely ignored her the first few times. I thought the bullies put her up to it.'' She began to smile. ''But without fail, she'd come over to me to say good morning. Then eventually, I decided to say it back. It felt like my heart was gonna shatter into a million pieces. But apparently, she'd been saying because she thought we could be friends. She was the first person who did mind how weird I was...I was so happy about making a friend that I told my mom. That's when she added something to the promise list. Get along with Kana-chan.'' She paused. ''But...I couldn't do it.''
Namine hadn't expected that. ''Why?''
''One particularly windy morning, Kana-chan dropped her diary and the pages flew everywhere. I didn't really mean to look...but I ended up seeing everything she had written down. And...Once I see something I can't forget it.'' Futaba shook her head. ''It was all so horrible...Her parents hit her, how they made her take pictures in weird clothes...Kana-chan's diary was full of stories like that...Then when I asked her about it...she got really defensive. I felt terrible, but she kept yelling at me for reading it...''
Namine frowned ''That's terrible...What happened after that? Didn't you ever talk to her about this?''
''No...Kana-chan couldn't tell anyone about that stuff. Writing it down was the only way to get it out...That's why when she started yelling at me, I froze up. And then, I ran...and I ran. I wanted her to stop yelling. I wanted to go back to how things were before...Kana-chan ended up moving away pretty soon after that. I haven't talked to her since. So...I lied to Mom. Even after Kana-chan left. I would tell her that we were best friends. Every month, she'd write that promise on my list, and every month...I'd lie about it.''
''Futaba...''
''I...I wish I could apologize to Kana-chan somehow, I really wanna say I'm sorry...Sorry for not helping her, though she was going through even worse stuff than me…Sorry for reading her diary...and for running away...I hate being such a coward.''
''...You're not a coward though.'' She looked up, startled. ''A coward wouldn't do the things you're doing now. They wouldn't face their fears. That's what your new list is for, right?''
A smile began to form on her face ''Yeah...I think I might be able to keep going now that I'm a promise setting Phantom Thief. Get along with Kana-chan, I'm gonna do it for real this time!''
''That's great...'' Namine blinked as the girl stiffened.
''Ahh, I didn't mean to tell you all that...please, you've got to help...''
The burgundy haired girl blinked twice ''I was going to anyway...why are you so embarrassed?''
''Because I never told anyone before...not even Sojiro!''
''Oh? Well, I'm flattered seeing how you felt that you can confide in me.''
''Y-yeah...I don't know why but it sure came easy...Welp, I'm gonna get on this right now!'' She hurried back to her computer.
Namine exhaled, her lips quirking into a smile. That left the cleaning up to her. Ah, well-she was motivated. Namine supposed she could it let it slide this once.
''Are you going to be okay for tomorrow though?''
''Oh, you mean about our plans? You bet-it's fine if you're all there. Besides, I'm not missing this, no way!'' Futaba grinned. ''All righty then, time to look up Kana-chan's deets!''
The next morning...
The three Hyakuyas were gathered at the breakfast table, all too happy to take a moment and catch up.
''Honestly, I never liked that school. For all their claims to being an elite school, they sure haven't done much to show for it.'' Itsuki grumped. ''Besides, it's way, way too bland and uptight.''
''...I swear you get along with Ryuji-kun a little too well sometimes.'' Yuri knew for a fact he was paraphrasing the blond boy's words. ''Anyway, how are you feeling about today, Nami-chan?''
''Pretty good, actually...'' The girl hadn't expected that but she wasn't complaining. ''...you know why I'm doing this. It's got nothing to do with the school, it's just something I chose to do.''
''And we're right behind you, sweetheart.'' Yuri returned her smile with one of her own, Itsuki nodding along.
''Go on, kiddo. Your friends are waiting, right? We'll see you soon.''
Everyone had gathered at Leblanc, planning to head out from there to Shujin together.
Curry plate finished, Ryuji perked up as he saw Namine and Morgana enter ''So! Today's the big day, huh?''
''Good morning to you too...'' The latter drawled ''...don't start making a huge deal out of it, you'll just pile up the pressure.''
''Yeah, okay-fair.'' He conceded. ''So, everyone ready?''
''Looks like we're making a regular out of you.'' Sojiro shot a smirk at Miura, who chuckled.
''With this quality? It was only a matter of time. I'm actually surprised you don't have more customers out and about.''
The barista shrugged ''I get that a lot. I'm fine with the way things are now.'' His lips quirked as the sound of laughter reached his ears with the group coming downstairs. They seemed to be in some sort of argument, he wasn't quite following but it seemed to involve Futaba and her activities. Oh, come to think of it, hadn't she mentioned something about a time where she dealt with a corrupt company executive and...? He honestly hadn't been sure how much of that was a joke but now...
Miura blinked twice, looking at Makoto ''...You really were telling the truth about the hacking.''
She only sighed in exasperation ''I think we're resigned to our privacy being a thing of the past at this point.''
''Hey!'' Talk about ungrateful. It was thanks to her that their phones were secure. They were too careless about that sort of thing!
Miura and Namine laughed at the brunette's utterly put upon tone. Futaba wasn't done though. ''You told a cop about me?''
''Miura-san's practically family...'' Both turned to the man as he cleared his throat, giving Makoto a pointed look ''...yes, yes, I know Taiki-san.''
''Yeah, I was wondering about all the formality, you guys obviously go way back.'' Ryuji remarked.
''Believe me, I tried to tell her.'' Taiki shook his head ''This is quite a gathering; I imagined Little Mako would've hauled you all up to school by now.''
Ann snickered ''She probably would've if we weren't going to the festival.''
''Ooh, right-I think Goro said something about that too...''
''Yeah, Futaba said a lot of the students want to meet him. Is he coming?'' Sojiro wanted to know.
''No clue, he wasn't really clear.'' Futaba shrugged. ''He'll be missing out if he doesn't; Yuuki says they'll even have all sorts of Featherman stuff at a stall.''
''And that's about what, fifty percent of the reason you're going?'' Ann joked.
''I'd say closer to sixty and above.'' Sojiro put in.
Shooting them a glare, the girl grumbled ''...there's a big reason we're all going, that's important too.''
The implication was clear, more so as her eyes traveled to Namine for a moment. The older girl patted her head with a smile ''Aw, so I rate almost as much as Featherman? Cool!''
Futaba hummed happily while Sojiro chuckled, both reminded of the way her mother used to do this. Makoto only smiled, noticing the curious Miura looking on ''I'll explain later.''
''I'll hold you to that. You kids have fun now.''
They arrived at the school to find numerous people going about; it was as busy as a beehive as the people surveyed the different stalls set up here and there.
Ryuji didn't miss Futaba shrinking back a bit behind them ''Hey, I thought you were getting better now.''
''Yeah, but...I mean, you couldn't pay me enough to come here before, I'm fine with you all here. It's just a bit much...''
Morgana had to agree ''It sure is crowded...there's no way everyone here is connected to the school...''
Haru shook her head ''The school has been in the limelight quite a bit. I'd imagine a lot of people are simply curious.''
Ryuji had a thought ''Hey, this just hit me but how come we never heard a peep about Kosei's festival?''
That was actually a good point. Makoto was about to ask Yusuke herself but the answer came from Namine.
''It was in September. I remember Hifumi mentioning it back when we were getting to know each other, but it was already finished by then.''
''And you didn't tell us, Yusuke?'' Ann demanded.
''My apologies, by the time I realized I'd forgotten to mention it, it was too late.''
Futaba rolled her eyes ''Typical Inari. Anyway, do you guys see Takuto? He said we'd meet here.''
''No, but we'll probably see him soon. He said he was coming when the students he met invited him, remember?'' Ann offered.
As they were about to enter, a familiar voice called out to the group. This brought their attention to Shiho as she led Hifumi over.
Ann waved them over ''Hey, you two-having fun?''
Shiho returned the smile with one of her own ''Yeah, it's better than I thought it would be. Hifumi's fans are kind of ridiculous though.''
The girl in question appeared sheepish as both talked about how they had to deal with said group just a few minutes ago. ''Maruki-san helped us out in good time. He seems quite popular here himself.''
''Yeah, Doc's great. He helped us out a bunch.'' Ryuji agreed. ''Where's he at anyway?''
''Somewhere in the courtyard, he was talking to a bunch of people when we saw you guys.'' Shiho tilted her head as her eyes roamed the area.
Yusuke's attention was on a corridor on their left which was garnering quite the attention ''Do you know what's going on there?''
Hifumi followed his line of sight ''Oh, I think that's where the fortune telling was going to start...''
''Wait, fortune telling? You guys had that too, Makoto?'' Futaba blinked.
But the other girl was shaking her head ''That's news to me too. I heard of a few students who were interested in the practice but...''
Namine had an idea where this was going. Intrigued, Ann followed the girl as she approached the area, only to find it was none other than Chihaya.
''...I thought so.''
''Hey-isn't that...?''
Morgana hummed ''Yeah, figures she'd bring about such a crowd.''
''Ooh, I've been looking to talk to her ever since you mentioned her powers!'' With that, Ann joined the line.
''Aaaand we lost her...'' Namine trailed off.
Ryuji snorted ''Big surprise-she just loves this kind of thing. Ann's got the right idea though. How about we see what's out there?''
It wasn't long before they came across a haunted house, something that immediately drew Haru's interest.
''Y-you want to go there?'' Makoto managed.
''You're surprised?'' Everyone had to agree with Futaba. It made total sense knowing Haru.
''...Well, one thing's for sure. If they manage to scare Haru, then we have something to worry about.'' Namine's tone was a clear indication of how unlikely she thought that possibility was.
Hifumi paused ''Ah, when you put it that way...''
Haru pouted as the pair looked at her ''I'm not that bad!''
''Coming from the girl who was practically giggling after that new Saw movie at the sleep over.'' Shiho countered.
''You laughed?!'' Ryuji couldn't help it; he knew it was Haru but come on...
''Then she got the bright idea to describe some of the scenes.'' Namine's input left Morgana staring at the girl incredulously.
''I was trying to help! Ann-chan and Mako-chan couldn't seem to tear your faces from your pillows...''
''I'd imagine that exacerbated the problem.'' Yusuke noted.
To Futaba, that was the understatement of the day ''You have no idea.'' Her eyes focused on the next room ''Hey, Ann, Namine-that's your class, right? Wasn't there some plan about a maid cafe?''
Nodding, the blonde huffed ''A few people asked me to take part but yeah, no way. Once was bad enough.''
''Shame though. Would've looked damn good...''
Ryuji's words died in his mouth at the sight of her narrowed eyes ''Perv.''
Spluttering, the boy tried to defend himself but was saved by an amused Namine ''Come on, it's true. And to be fair, he is paying you a compliment...'' It was just on the tip of his tongue to express gratitude but then ''...in his own way.''
''Gee, thanks!'' The others just started to laugh and Ryuji soon found himself smiling, not all that upset either.
They soon separated into different groups, each looking to see a different part of the festival. Once they agreed to meet near the gym's entrance before the performance, the group was off.
''Oh, I was wondering if we'd find him...''
Namine followed Morgana's line of sight to find Takuto talking to Chihaya not too far away. ''Takuto-sensei!''
Both turned with a start, smiling at the girl as she joined them. ''Hi, you two! Looks like you've been keeping busy, huh?''
Chihaya giggled ''You can say that again. I just planned to visit today but I never thought it'd turn out like this...''
Takuto proceeded to explain for his curious teammates' sake. It seemed Chihaya had built up even more of a reputation as she was expecting, for a few of the students had recognized her on the spot and asked for a reading. This eventually snowballed and she had a makeshift stand for her prepared due to the general interest in her craft.
''Way to go, Chihaya-san, that's awesome!''
The blonde beamed ''Ah, everyone's really too kind...''
''You deserve it.'' Namine firmly believed that. The fortune teller had really been going the extra mile and doing the best she could to help others, even more so now that the chairman wasn't harping down her throat. It was only natural that people would think well of her.
''I'd say so too-your efforts clearly speak for yourselves.'' Takuto agreed.
Chihaya felt her face grow warmer ''Aw, shucks-yer' all embarrassin'…'' She blanched, burying her face in her hands.
''…What just happened?'' Morgana wasn't sure if his ears weren't playing tricks on him. The fortune teller suddenly sounded like…oh, come to think of it, hadn't she said something about being from the country?
Namine came to a similar conclusion, the accent reminding her of one she'd heard before ''Do people talk like where you came from?''
''…Yes.'' Her voice was small. ''I thought I was rid of the habit by now…! Oh, this is embarrassing...I was supposed to hide it…''
''Is this something that your idiot of a former boss told you?'' Chihaya's expression gave her the answer. ''I thought we were clear on the fact that you weren't supposed to listen to him anymore.''
''Maybe we should chalk it up to old habits dying hard.'' Takuto suggested. ''But she's not wrong. As I understand, the man certainly didn't have your best interest in mind.''
''I know, I know…'' Chihaya sighed. ''…he was the first person I thought I could trust here and...He was selfish and terrible-half the ADP is made of people he swayed into his way of thinking. He definitely had no trouble taking all that money from people and leaving them miserable…but…I find myself listening to him without even realizing it sometimes.''
''That's fine, change doesn't come that easily. Some falling back into old habits is understandable-what's important is that you know the truth. I think your actions prove that you're much better than that.''
Takuto's kind words gave her a sense of relief, which was only improved by Namine ''Look at all the progress you made, doesn't today prove it?''
Chihaya laughed a bit ''I suppose it's hard to argue with that-thank you…''
The three Phantom Thieves continued their walk around the school together, falling into a conversation about the origins of their Personas.
''Oh, no wonder you wound up with Adam Kadmon-it suits you!''
''And characters like Zorro and Mercurius fit you quite well.'' Takuto smiled at Morgana. ''I must say, Futaba-chan's awakening leaves me especially intrigued. Does this mean there are various ways to awaken a Persona?''
''I'd say so. The Metaverse may have only been around for a short while but I doubt we can say the same for Personas.'' The cat tilted his head. ''I really can't wait to see what everyone's Personas are like after evolving. Especially yours, Namine-I wonder if a Wild Card would have different requirements or something…''
''I guess we'll have to wait and see.'' Namine was curious about that herself. Three of them had gained new Personas after apparently coming to some sort of resolution, strengthening their hearts. But what did that mean for the rest of them? What would Arsene even become? She found it hard to imagine…
''I do feel bad about leaving Togo-san to deal with her mother like this…'' Takuto sighed. ''…but it's the right choice given the situation."
''We're getting that figured out. Hifumi's going to warn her next opponent about the scam and she'll post the request. She doesn't want to tell her dad yet because she doesn't want to stress him with the trouble around his health. But…''
Morgana nodded to their leader ''It's going to come to that eventually. She does know no one's going to take this well, right? Even if she makes her opinion on this clear, people are going to blame her too.''
''Mmhm, she said she'll deal with that. It's better than going along with this scheme.'' Much like what happened with Akechi and to a lesser extent, Haru and Yusuke, Hifumi would wind up facing the public's scorn. Haru had it easier partly because of the president's earnest efforts to improve Okumura Foods and her own attempts to help. However, none of them had missed the dark stares sent the girl's way occasionally.
Namine didn't like that they'd essentially be sending another friend into this. However, Hifumi herself was of the opinion that her mother should have a change of heart. Refusing to accept the woman's schemes, her shogi teacher was determined to do the right thing and she would respect that.
''Well, that's quite the selection.''
Takuto's comment drew her attention to a stand that apparently sold food, and it did indeed have a variety of food on display. Morgana took a whiff ''Ooh, and it smells really good! They must be doing something right with this crowd gathered. Hey, can we stop there later?''
''I certainly don't see why not. It might even be a chance to get an idea for new recipes…''
''Isn't that what you said the day you made that seafood recipe for your girlfriend?''
Takuto tried to affect a wounded look at the smirking feline, ruined by the amusement in his eyes. Despite the disastrous attempt, it was a good time. ''I really shouldn't have told you that story…Rumi never let go of it for weeks too.''
''You were totally trying to show off and impress her, weren't you?''
He laughed sheepishly ''Was it that obvious?'' Namine and Morgana nodded ''Believe me, it was the last time, it certainly wasn't worth it.''
'What even is the point of such behavior?' Flora piped up curiously 'I was under the impression that it was best to be upfront and honest in such things, no? That's what I understood from Namine. It seems more damaging to creating falsehoods.'
'Indeed.' Adam Kadmon concurred. 'Some humans simply feel the need to put on an act to make themselves greater than they actually are. I'm sure my other half can tell you that that behavior tends to end poorly.'
Takuto chuckled ''Well, essentially he's not wrong.''
''Yeah, personally I just think it's better if you're upfront and honest. That's how you really breed trust.'' Namine added.
'Ah, I see-that does make sense.' A pause 'By the way, isn't the stand you mentioned before we left?'
It took them a moment to spot the Featherman stand at the end of their path. A certain head of orange hair checking it out with clear enthusiasm was no surprise.
Futaba was accompanied by Yusuke, Ryuji, Shiho and Hifumi. The artist was making his opinion clear that Futaba was overreacting once more.
''Dude, do not start this again.'' Ryuji rolled his eyes. ''You know what she's like with-oh hey, Doc!''
Takuto greeted them in return ''So, what're you all up to?''
Well, wasn't this nostalgic. It seemed some things never changed, after all.
Lips quirked in a half-smile, Namine recalled the moments in the past where she felt similarly nervous. She just sought to take a moment and prepare herself but no matter the circumstances, she couldn't shake the butterflies in her stomach.
It wasn't a bad feeling though. Performing in school may not have crossed her mind before but she found that a part of her was excited. She simply planned to do her best and let the dice fall wherever they may.
Morgana didn't miss a few students watching her as they walked past, remembering what Makoto mentioned about admirers. The cat allowed himself a satisfied smile.
Well, they had good taste after all.
The sound of laughter caught their attention, the source being a pair of familiar girls talking to none other than Hisashi, much to her surprise. It took her a few moments to recognize the girls as Akari's friends, Hisashi wearing a sheepish grin as one of the girls jabbed his side with a smirk, continuing to tease him. A smile came unbidden to Namine; it was good to see them get along so well.
It was just as she was turning around a corner that she almost bumped into Yuuki, who perked up ''Oh, hey Namine-san! We were looking for you.''
''We...?'' The answer came in the form of Akari, who happily greeted her.
''So, apparently you and Nijima-senpai made some sort of plan and it's replacing the Shujin Sharing special-and the track team's super relieved. What's up with that?''
''Ah, you'll find out soon. No need to spoil the surprise.''
''Oh, wait-come to think of it, didn't Sakamoto say...? Are you really going to...?'' The teen's lips twitched, thinking it was indeed best to be quiet now. Morgana smiled, yup that was better.
''So, what's the festival like for you?'' Namine wanted to know.
''Pretty good, actually! Come on, there's this really neat stall...'' The two let Akari lead as she continued.
''Have you guys ever had this feeling of déjà vu-like you run into a person who you feel you should know but you don't? I swear I saw the guy who was just talking about the photo booth back there.'' Akari mused.
''It sounded like he was just running his mouth to me.'' Yuuki shrugged. ''I mean, he just went on and on about the photo angle and the lighting...it's just a little booth but he acted like it was a crime against nature.''
''He was a little dramatic, yeah.'' Namine agreed. ''But I get where she's coming from too...see, I met a guy a couple of years ago and...It took plenty of effort but we became friends.''
''So what, he didn't believe you wanted to be friends? How come?'' Namine was one of the nicest people he'd ever met so Yuuki didn't get it. What was so hard about that?
''...You know, I'm not all that sure...'' She admitted. ''...my memory's still a bit off but I kinda got the impression people have been really awful to him for a long time. It was like he got so used to being alone that he couldn't imagine things any differently. I didn't even know he left until I found out his family was already gone. All I know is that there's a chance he came here.''
Wait, a couple of years ago...? So it would've been around the time of that incident...which likely explained why she had a hard time remembering.
''That's...sad.'' Yuuki hadn't realized how he'd spaced out until Akari carried on ''He even left without saying goodbye and it's been this long? And you think he came here?''
''I know he really wanted to.'' The older girl returned after a bit of deliberation. ''I'm not sure if we ever talked about the reasons but it seemed really important to him. I don't even know if he remembers me but it would've been nice to know how he was doing.''
''I bet he didn't forget you, you must've made one heck of an impression, Senpai.'' Akari responded with confidence.
''Oh, for sure.'' Yuuki agreed at once.
Morgana couldn't have said it better. He didn't think one met people like Namine every day.
''You definitely made one here. And I don't mean because of the circumstances-even though that was a part of it. Not just anyone would've forgiven the person who completely ruined their fresh start.'' Yuuki put in.
''A-it wasn't your fault; none of it would've happened if the school actually did what it was supposed to do. B-That jackass could've just as easily found some other way to get at me and you know it. C-It's way past done and kicking yourself over it does no good.'' Namine couldn't help being perhaps a little too sharp, for this subject had come up more than once before. It was high time they put it to rest.
Yuuki only laughed a little, touched ''You're kinda proving our point.''
Rolling her eyes, the girl carried on ''I guess it's just like Akari-chan says, for all we know we could've met. I'm not sure I'd recognize him...''
A tune from her phone resounded then, making her take it out. ''...oh, it's almost time!''
''I must admit, I was very surprised when you proposed this, President.''
Makoto smiled at her fellow student council member ''We agreed that it might be nice for a change of pace. Not to mention, I know at least a few people are glad that the sharing special might be replaced.''
''Yeah, I heard something about that-'' The boy looked thoughtful ''-it wasn't that bad, was it?''
''Would you really be able to say that if it was you up on stage, Oikawa-san?''
''Oh, err...fair enough.''
Ann gave Namine a once over as Futaba finished checking the equipment, both girls sharing a nod ''Yup, all good.''
Thanking them, the girl looked back at the stage where the microphone was just being set up and inhaled. Well, here she was...
''Okay, so you're almost on-you sure you're up to this?'' Futaba asked.
Morgana spoke up before she could respond ''Yeah, it was an idea and I know you said it was fine. But...''
''Oh, honestly...'' Yusuke cut in. ''...you're just going to make her nervous. I thought we had this settled.''
"I'm sure there's no need to worry." Takuto offered.
''Yes, it'll be fine...''
Haru paused at the sound of Namine's laughter, her expression lighting up at the sight of their leader's smile.
Her friends were the best. How did she get so lucky? ''It's fine, guys. No going back now. So...show time!''
''Now you're talking, knock 'em dead!'' Ryuji smirked.
The speakers started playing as she headed onstage. Paying the crowd's curious murmurs no mind, Namine caught sight of Kawakami giving her a thumbs up, Asuka waving at her as she made her way towards the stage, Chihaya shooting a bright smile and her grandparents waving at her.
(Play See Visions by Mami Kawada)
The music started slow but continued to rise after a few seconds. Namine began to sing accordingly, her melodious voice flowing seamlessly within the song. Focused as she was, she completely missed the shocked eyes looking on while her friends and family felt their pride soar.
Akari's expression was one of delighted surprise ''You knew this was the plan?!''
''It was better as a surprise-awesome, right?'' Yuuki grinned as she nodded quickly.
And she was far from the only one; the crowd was slowly beginning to cheer with the surprise wearing off. Namine's content smile grew as she continued, an expression worn by someone who truly loved what they were doing. She enjoyed her craft and the crowd was not only feeling her joy but coming to share it as well.
''They're loving it!'' Hifumi beamed, Makoto nodding happily along.
''How can they not? This is splendid!'' Yusuke declared as Ryuji, Ann, Haru, Shiho, Futaba and Morgana were cheering next to them.
Honestly, even as he said it, the word didn't seem enough to Yusuke. He had believed Namine to be beautiful since the met but she was practically shining today, watching her right now was truly inspiring. His heart beat a little faster with emotion, he wasn't sure he could paint a piece that would do his dear friend justice now.
''Well, what do you think, Oikawa-san? Was this a worthwhile venture?'' Takuto smiled.
''Absolutely!''
''That's my girl! You're doing great, kiddo!''
Yuri chuckled at her husband's usual enthusiasm but her smile was just as bright, her eyes never leaving the stage. Life hadn't been easy but Namine hadn't just held on, she came back swinging and came out on top. It was wonderful to see her so happy after all that happened.
Applause rang throughout at the hall at the end of the song, cheers accompanying the standing ovation. Namine barely even realized how much she'd gotten into it, unsure of how to react. But eventually, as the crowd started calling to her and shouting praise, the girl waved with a tentative smile.
Now she'd really done this for her own sake, she'd been preparing ever since Yusuke and the others started encouraging her. It started with baby steps and she was really getting back into the swing of things. This was like a final step and she'd done it.
She'd almost forgotten this feeling. Performing around her friends was always fun but this was entirely different, on stage in front of so many...Being able to make people happy just by doing something she loved...it was amazing.
The girl turned at the sound of her name only to be tackled into a hug by an excited Ann and Haru, leading the rest of her friends over.
''That was incredible!''
''Way better that that-you ruled out there!''
''Yeah, you're like a freakin' rock star!''
Namine only beamed, the day had surpassed every bit of her expectations by far and it was only looking better by the minute.
Just a few months ago, she never believed that she'd be this happy. But here she was, surrounded by friends, with her family still supporting her and even a new home in the wait. Today only deepened the realization, she'd truly found the silver lining amongst the clouds.
Well, that's that.
There's the beach trip where Yusuke buys two lobsters for inspiration or something, that's where I got the idea. I would've brought it up before but the idea just hit me when I started working on this chapter. So I just thought to try this out because why not? I don't know if it's just me who found the whole sharing special thing that embarrassing but I figured I'd roll with this. Before I forget, Goro's popularity isn't really the same as in the game both because Okumura lived and the prison incident. But he still has fans here and there who voted him.
Next chapter carries on after this, leading to more of the festival and the setting up I'm planning for the Palace. As you can see, Sae's getting on the right track. She's taking time to learn about Shido, seeing how often his name seems to come up with her sources. Most of that investigator's notes were destroyed because he got pretty suspicious about Shido and Makoto's dad came to get what was left. Her investigation now is more or less about her settling her suspicions-but it's also going to cause a problem soon…
The Phantom Thieves are doing what they can to help Hifumi but they're also careful with their identities. You see how people figure Joker out in canon so I wanted to try something different. They know Circe and Hades are somewhere out in Mementos and they're right to be suspicious that they'll need the full team to deal with them. Remember that they could've run into Hades if they had been just a bit earlier the day they saved Flora. There's also the Black Mask but they know even less about him, just that he was messing around with them that one time. So overall, they've agreed that it's best to be careful. But they've got a plan to help and they're going to deal with her mom soon.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it. Till next time!
Confidants:
Sakamoto Ryuji (Chariot Rank Max)
Morgana (Magician Rank 9)
Takamaki Ann (Lovers Rank Max)
Takemi Tae (Death Rank Max)
Okumura Haru (Empress Rank 7)
Igor (Aeon Rank 6)
Suzui Shiho (Temperance Rank Max)
Yoshida Toranosuke (Sun Rank 8)
SakuraSojiro (Hierophant Rank 6)
Sakura Futaba (Hermit Rank 5)
Maruki Takuto (Councilor Rank 4)
Caroline and Justine (Strength Rank 6)
The Phantom Thieves (Fool Rank 7)
Kitagawa Yusuke (Emperor Rank 8)
Akechi Goro (Justice Rank 5)
Ohya Ichiko (Devil Rank 6)
Nijima Makoto (Priestess Rank 6)
Mifune Chihaya (Wheel of Fortune Rank 7)
Togo Hifumi (Star Rank 5)
Iwai Muneshisa (Hanged Man Rank 4)
Nijima Sae (Judgement Rank 2)
Konno Fujitaka and Asuka (Passion Rank 4)
Miura Taiki (Apostle Rank 2)
Oda Shinya (Tower Rank 1)
Hyakuya Yuri and Itsuki (Charity Rank 7)