Chapter Text
In another world, a boy lost everything. His family, his friends… his world. He fought until his body could not fight anymore. He gave his life to end the False God’s, but the damage had already been done. He was too late, and there was nothing that could’ve fixed it.
…
…
…
Ren jolted awake, and he shot up, chest rising and falling quickly. He whirled his head around before he realized his surroundings.
Leblanc.
He furrowed his brow before he pushed himself up against the wall, resting his head against the material as he waited for his heart rate to descend back to workable numbers. He shakily held up his hands, noticing they were still bruised and covered in dried blood.
He swallowed heavily and dropped them, running a hand over his pants as he tried to get his thoughts under control. His bottom lip started to wobble before he felt a cold sensation wash over him.
He turned his gaze down to his right hand, his eyes landing on the silver ring that decorated his middle finger. His thoughts slowed, and his heart did as well. He closed his eyes and smiled softly as he reached up to press a gentle kiss to the metal.
“Thank you.”
The whisper wasn’t meant for anyone in particular, but rather everyone he could possibly think of. He felt the cold increase tenfold, and he let himself relax in it. He took quiet, filling breaths as he heard voices floating around him, murmuring reassurances. He couldn’t make them out, but there was one he heard clearly.
We’re with you until the end, Joker.
He smiled softly before opening his eyes, scanning the attic of this Leblanc. It seemed exactly the same, just how it looked before… Before. He pushed himself off the bed, feet gently touching the floor, only to pause when he didn’t feel the familiar wood beneath him.
He glanced down, only to freeze when his eyes landed on the horrifically familiar material of the Metaverse. He swallowed heavily before he lifted his foot and stepped down again, his lips twitching down at the sight of the ripples.
So this place is a part of the cognitive world, then.
As that thought ran through him, he shuddered before he fiddled around for his phone. He reached into his back pocket and pulled out the device to check the time and date. He knew that Igor and Lavenza were going to send him back, but he wasn’t sure how far back.
He pulled up his phone, the screen lighting up. He scanned the screen before his heart launched into his throat. He rechecked it. Once. Twice. Three times. He could hardly believe it. But a part of him, deep down, knew it was true.
September 3rd, 2013, 7:13am
He took a seat on the bed, his hands beginning to shake.
Three years. He had three years until the end of the world. That’s… a lot of time. He wasn’t sure if it was enough time, though. He had a lot to do, after all. But… Maybe this is a start. The start. He had another chance to fix the things he messed up.
He took a deep breath, clenching his fists before he stood up and put on a determined grin. He was about to march downstairs until something caught his attention. He turned over to his desk, spotting his probation journal resting comfortably on top of it.
He went over slowly, picking up the item and brushing his thumb over it tenderly. There were so many memories in this book, so many people, places… events. He frowned before flipping through it, noting down that nothing seemed to be different. That was until he got to the end and noticed that there was something added that wasn’t there before.
A list.
Not just any list, but a list of… events, it seemed like. It listed some guidelines that Ren had to follow. He was… slightly amused. Rules had never been his forte, but he supposed if it kept the timeline roughly the same, he'd oblige.
He read it as he made his way downstairs. The main point was that each level of Mementos had to be unlocked for the Phantom Thieves. Oddly, it didn’t mention any specific Palaces. That… That made him think.
But before he dwelled on it too long, he closed it and put it into his bag. Right now, he needs to get out and find out what’s what. The year is 2013, apparently. Which means Wakaba would still be alive, and right now, that’s got his full attention.
He’ll have to come up with a plan, find a way to keep her from dying while also making sure that nothing goes haywire with her research. He shook his head. He’s taking this too fast; he needs to slow down, bide his time, and come up with a plan to save Wakaba from her death and Futaba from her uncle.
With one last big breath, he walked up to the door of this cognitive Leblanc… and pushed it open.
Ren placed the barbell back on the hooks, sitting up to wipe some sweat from his brow. He grabbed his towel and started to wipe himself down. He swung his legs over and rested his elbows on his knees after wrapping the towel around his neck.
“Hey, Amamiya.”
Ren looked up to see one of the gym’s owners, an older gentleman that he’s grown quite fond of, walking towards him. Ren wiped the rest of his face down and stood up to greet him. “Yeah?”
“You nearly finished, kid?”
Ren glanced at the barbell. “Uh, yeah, just about.” He answered softly. “Just gotta clean up and take a quick shower. Why?” He asked curiously, tilting his head.
The man chuckled bashfully and rubbed the back of his neck. “Ah, well, you know, I was thinking of closing up early for the holidays… Spend some time with my son and wife. I thought about what you told me; I think I’m going to do it.”
Ren found himself smiling slightly, and he gave the man a pat on the arm. “You’re welcome, sir. But I just did what anyone would do.”
He snorted and shook his head. “Nonsense, kid, but…” He worked his mouth for a moment. “Alright, why don’t you go on and hop in the showers? I’ll finish cleaning up here.”
Ren held up his palms. “Oh, no, I couldn’t ask you—”
“I insist, Amamiya.” He said firmly, but softly. “You’ve done a lot for me in the short time we’ve known each other; this right here is the least I can do.”
Ren fidgeted in place for a moment before he relented with a soft sigh. “...Alright.”
He patted him on the shoulder. “Happy Holidays, kid.”
“You too, sir.”
A quick shower later, Ren walked out into the chilly December air. He buried his hands deeper into his jacket and tried to ignore the way the wind tickled his nose. His boots crunched against the light blanket of snow, and he had to bury a shudder as a snowflake landed on his cheek.
He had been in this new world for just over three months, and he’s spent that time doing one of two things. Either he was brainstorming ideas on how to save Wakaba from Akechi and keep Futaba out of her uncle’s clutches… or he was spending his time working out and building up more muscle.
The gym he had frequented wasn’t the greatest, but it was out of the way, and the owners never asked too many questions about why a seventeen-year-old was almost constantly using their equipment when he should be in school.
…And they don’t ask questions about the scars. No one asks about the scars.
He shuddered again, and he removed his hands from his pockets to pull up his hood. He shoved his hands back into his pockets and continued walking briskly. He didn’t have anywhere to go, due to his lack of, you know, not existing, but he made do.
His cognitive Leblanc proved to be more than just a space for him to keep his things. It became a practical mobile home for him. No matter where he was, he could just dip into an alley and vanish into the Metaverse. The only downside was that it didn’t get warm or cold.
And the silence… It was always too quiet, and he had to force himself to listen to the comfortable presence of his Personas in order to fall asleep. He hated the silence. Arsene would offer as much comfort as he could, but most of the time it was null.
Shaking his head free of those thoughts, he paused when his eyes landed on a cafe across the street. He tilted his head for a moment before his stomach growled quietly, causing his face to redden and him to start quickly walking towards the cafe. He hasn’t had anything to eat since this morning, and that barely tied him over for his workout.
He pushed the door open, only to move to the side as a young couple passed him. He gave them a tentative smile before he closed the door behind him, taking note that the cafe was quite large and almost filled to the brim. He frowned at the crowd before he shuffled his way over to the counter, taking a seat on one of the only two open stools left.
He tugged off his gloves and placed them on the counter as he rubbed his hands together. The barista came over with a comfortable smile and asked him what he would like. Ren dug around for his wallet before placing a 5,000 yen note on the table.
“Coffee, please.” He said softly, putting on a smile. “Uhm, just black with a spoonful of sugar.” He added. “Could I also have two sandwiches?” The barista nodded, and Ren placed his bag on the ground to start digging for his journal.
He grabbed the item and flipped it open to where he left off, beginning to write his activities from the day so far. He idly took in the door opening and a pair of heels clacking on the floor before he felt a presence next to him.
“Excuse me, is this seat taken?” A young, feminine voice asked quietly.
Ren spared the young woman a brief glance, not even half a second, before he went back to his journal. “Uh, no, it’s open. Feel free.”
“Thanks.” She replied as she took a seat next to him.
The barista came back with Ren’s drink and food, and he thanked him with a nod as he took a sip, immediately hiding a blanch at the taste. It was… passable, but he’s been spoiled by Leblanc’s superior selection.
“And what can I get for you, ma’am?”
“Just a light snack, please.”
Ren twitched at… something . He wasn’t sure why, but that voice sounded so… familiar. He risked a glance up from his journal, only to nearly drop it when his eyes landed on silver hair. Not just any silver hair, though. No, he recognized it.
Tilting his head to subtly gain a better look, he felt his heart launch up to his throat as his gaze latched onto a younger but infinitely still recognizable face.
Sae Niijima.
Ren couldn’t help but blink rapidly at the young woman in front of him. Of all the places… Of all the people… Why is she the first person he ran into? He’s been here all of three months, and he’s already running into familiar faces. What are the damn odds?
If his brain was still working correctly, then she would only be eighteen right now, with Makoto being fourteen and about to enter her first year at Shujin in the coming months. He doesn’t… quite know what to do with that information. Here, she was only a few months older than him, if that!
“Is there something I can help you with?”
Sae’s familiar, icy tone sliced through his thoughts, and it was then he realized he had been staring. He blinked before successfully fighting down the blush that threatened to rise on his cheeks. He put on a grin. “Sorry, it’s just I’ve never seen someone so beautiful with such gorgeous silver hair.”
Nailed it.
She merely raised an eyebrow at him.
He deflated. “Alright, you got me; I was spacing out. Sorry.” He said, smiling bashfully as he reached up to scratch his chin.
She tilted her head, those mauve-red irises scanning him. Ren was shot back six months to that damn interrogation room, but those memories quickly faded as she leaned back up with a barely noticeable frown.
“...Have we met?” She asked curiously. “You seem to recognize me, but I’m afraid I don’t recall ever seeing you. Did you attend Shujin Academy at one point?”
Ren wanted to burst out laughing, and it was only due to a year of perfecting his poker face that he didn’t do so. “Sorry, no, I didn’t. And, no, I don’t think we’ve met. Like I said, I was merely spacing out, and you just happened to be the fortunate recipient of my staring.” He defended with a shrug.
She eyed him for a moment longer before she apparently decided it wasn’t worth it to keep digging. But boy, oh boy, had he snagged her attention. That’s fine. He has the charm; he’ll be able to smooth this over no problem.
Of course, the best option would be to act like this never happened, but… Ah, hell, he’s never been one to back down from a challenge.
He rested his palm against his cheek. “My name’s Ren. Ren Amamiya.” He introduced himself with a slight smile. “Can I suggest a drink that you might enjoy as an apology?”
Her fingers paused in searching through her purse. “...Sae Niijima.” She answered hesitantly. “And you aren’t going to offer to pay for it?” She asked, turning to raise another eyebrow at him.
“Would you have accepted?” He retorted coolly, his smile growing.
She considered this for a moment. “Probably not.”
“Then therein lies your answer.” He said with a nod. “If I may suggest Jamaican Blue Mountain? It’s a personal favorite of mine, and I think you’d enjoy it. You seem like the type of woman who would.”
“We just met.” Sae said dryly, though there was a twitch of her lips. “...Excuse me.” She said, gathering the barista’s attention. “I’ll take a Jamaican Blue Mountain.” The barista seemed surprised before he smiled and got to work. Meanwhile, Sae turned back to Ren. “Like I said, we just met. How could you possibly get that from the short time we’ve been talking?”
“I’m very good at reading people.” He said with a wink.
She smiled and narrowed her gaze challengingly. “What a coincidence, so am I.”
They held each other’s gazes until the barista put down Sae’s new cup of coffee. Ren grinned and grabbed his own, taking a sip. “Will you be staying long, Niijima-san?” He asked curiously.
Sae glanced between him and her own cup. “I wasn’t planning on it, but… I think I’ll stay for a little bit longer.” She said, a smile rising on her lips.
Ren couldn’t help but smile widely in his mind. Perhaps it was fate that he just so happened to be in this cafe today. The odds of him running into Sae Niijima? Statistically impossible.
He’s glad he’s able to do the impossible.
Ren walked into the diner with a small smile on his face. That smile grew tenfold as he spotted his silver-haired friend. He tugged off his gloves as he approached the table, sliding into the seat across from her with a grin. “Hello, Niijima-chan, it’s a pleasure to see you this chilly afternoon.”
Sae’s gaze flickered upwards, a sly smile on her lips. “As is you, Amamiya-kun.” She said, closing her book and placing it down on the table. “I was wondering if you had gotten my invitation.”
“A night out with a gorgeous girl like yourself? I’d be a fool to pass it up.” He said, tacking on a wink for good measure. She merely rolled her eyes, far immune to any of his charms. “What’s the occasion? Need a study partner for your classes?” He teased, picking up the menu and giving it a scan.
“Quite the opposite, actually.” She replied, picking up the menu as well. “I wanted to celebrate the new year with a friend.” She squirmed slightly. “And you were available.”
“All your options of fellow classmates, you chose moi?” Ren put a hand to his chest. “Niijima-chan, I’m flattered. I would love to celebrate with you.” He said warmly.
The waiter came, and they placed their orders.
After that, they fell into a comfortable silence, with only the soft chattering of the rest of the patrons filling it. Their drinks came, and it was then Ren was hit with the oh-so-familiar scent of coffee. He withheld a smirk as he placed down his journal. “Is that… Jamaican Blue Mountain, Niijima-chan?”
Sae’s impeccable poker face remained intact. She took a sip of her drink before she placed it down. “...I may have grown fond of Blue Mountain, Amamiya-kun. What can I say? You have good taste.” She murmured and flipped a page of her book. “I’m surprised you got it just by the smell.”
“I’m somewhat of a coffee prodigy.” He boasted with a grin. “If you want, I’d be honored to make you a cup of Blue Mountain. I assure you, it’ll be better than anything you’ve had before.”
Sae let out a soft chuckle. “I might just take you up on that, Amamiya-kun.” She said with a slight smirk. “But, first, why don’t we enjoy this afternoon? I have some things I need to take care of when I get home.”
Oh? “What kind of business, if I may ask?” He took a sip of his coffee, already putting together pieces of what could hold Sae’s time. “Anything dangerous?” He teased, a little gleam in his eyes. “Anyone I should know about?”
Sae rolled her eyes. “Careful, Amamiya-kun, your jealousy is showing.” She sobered a bit. “But, actually, it’s… It’s my sister.”
Ren guessed as much. “You have a sister?” He asked, playing dumb. “I wasn’t aware. Are you twins?”
Sae snorted and shook her head. “No, she’s… my younger sister. By about four years. She’s turning fifteen in April and will be starting high school.” She let out a soft sigh. “I’ve just been stressed recently about her schoolwork and the like. Not to mention my own studies.”
Ren swallowed lightly. “...Your parents?”
Sae shuffled before she sniffed. “Our mother passed away about a year after Makoto was born. Our… father died in the line of duty a few years ago.”
Despite already knowing her past, to hear it with such raw honesty and pain shook Ren far more than he initially believed it would. He shifted in place as he brushed a thumb over his cup. “I’m sorry.” He said softly. “So it’s just you and your sister?”
She nodded. “That’s right.”
Ren worked his mouth for a moment before he decided to go the normal route. “Well, at least you two have each other. I know… better than most how it is to lose the ones you loved.” He took a sip of his drink. “If I can give you a piece of advice… Just keep looking forward.” He gave her a half-smile. “When you live in the rearview mirror, you’ll just crash, after all.”
He deliberately ignored the way Arsene was glaring daggers at him from within his subconscious. He could feel his Personas crowding around him, but his other self was bordering on a protective snarl.
Why don’t you take your own advice, he muttered. Ren pushed him away and locked him away for the time being.
Sae looked taken aback for a moment before she smiled softly. “Thanks, Amamiya-kun.”
Their food arrived, and they went back to more shallow topics.
“So,” Ren dabbed his chin with a napkin. “How are your studies coming along? If I remember correctly, you previously said you were going for your bachelor's.
Sae took a sip of her drink. “That’s correct. While I recently passed the BAR, I was… I wanted to set myself apart from other people going for the same position.”
“You’re only 18, Niijima-chan.” He pointed out slyly. “I think anyone would be thrilled to have someone that young and talented as a, uh, prosecutor, right?”
“I’m also a woman.” She muttered as she downed the rest of her cup, putting it down on the table roughly. “As I’m sure you’ve noticed, I’m also a good- looking woman. You know how the country sees the standards set between man and woman.”
“...I have.” He agreed after a beat of silence. “But, the way I see it, I think you’ll ace it and throw everyone out of the park. I know we’ve only known each other for a short time, but you’re the most stubborn woman I’ve met.”
“Is that a compliment?” She replied dryly, smirking slightly.
“I don’t know. Is it?” He said, throwing in a wink as he finished his drink. “In all seriousness, if you need any help, or perhaps an enforcer.” He flicked out his jacket’s collar, shooting an arm out to flex. “I’m your guy.”
“I’ll pass.” She murmured, shaking her head with a fond smile. “I’m perfectly content with earning my way to the top, without someone acting as my arm candy.”
“You think I’m pretty?” He said, grin growing and eyes shining.
“Pretty annoying.” She replied coolly. Though her bravado dropped shortly after. “I appreciate the offer, Amamiya-kun, but having you here just to talk to is enough, I promise.” She said earnestly.
“I’m glad I can be of service.” He gave her a grin. “You have plans for your sister’s first day? Embarrassing her, perchance?” He leaned in, eyes twinkling with mischief. “Teaching how to be a delinquent, maybe?”
“Amamiya-kun.” She warned, but her lips were twitching upwards. “Makoto is very talented; she has a very high ceiling, but she needs to focus on her studies.”
“She just got into high school, Niijima-chan. I think you should cut her some slack, especially if she doesn’t have many friends.” He paused. “Of course, she could have many, and I’m just talking out of my behind here.”
That seemed to make Sae stop for a moment. “You… might have a good point.” She conceded with a nod. “But right now, I want what’s best for her. And what’s best for her is making sure she gets into a good college.”
Ren considered this for a few seconds. “Fair enough. After all, if there’s anything the world needs, it’s two fierce Niijima women giving it hell.” He said, flashing a bright grin. “Don’t worry, I’ll teach your sister all the tricks I know.”
“Please don’t; she’s starting to become more like me than I’m willing to admit.” Sae mumbled, pinching the bridge of her nose. She looked up to meet his gaze. “Did you have anything planned for today? I still have a few hours before I need to pick up Makoto.”
Ren beamed. “How about a walk? It’s a beautifully chilly day, and it deserves to be experienced to its fullest!” He said brightly.
Sae rolled her eyes, but the smile on her lips told him he was getting somewhere. She stood to her feet gracefully, tossing her hair over her shoulder and fixing her bag. “Sure. But I warn you, I’m a quick walker.” She said, sending him a smirk before she sauntered out of the diner.
Ren watched her leave before he quickly placed a few more bills, plus a tip, and then he packed away his journal and tugged on his gloves as he quickly started to catch up to her.
Happy New Year to me, he thought with a grin.
Ren took a deep breath as he walked down the street, his hands reaching up to fiddle idly with the bandana that was tied around his neck. He wasn’t sure how this day was going to play out, if he was being honest. There were so many things that could go wrong, so many things he could… ruin.
He shook his head, destroying those traitorous thoughts. It was going to be fine. He had a plan; he knew what to say and how to say it. He’s charming; all he has to do is flash a smile and… try not to freak her out too much, at least not until after he’s able to convince her to go along with his, albeit insane, plan.
He sighed softly and hopped up the steps to the home, raising his fist before gently raking his knuckles across the wood. He took a step back and started to shuffle his feet as he waited for someone to answer the door. He picked up light footsteps on the other side and straightened up.
The door cracked open before it opened wider to reveal a middle-aged woman with black hair and black-rimmed glasses.
Wakaba Isshiki. In the flesh.
“Yes?” She asked softly. “Is there something I can help you with, young man?” Her stance was guarded, almost waiting for any sign of deception.
Ren put on a small smile. “Wakaba Isshiki?” He asked before putting out a hand. “Ren Amamiya, I was wondering if I could have a moment of your time?” When she didn’t extend her hand out, he dropped it and put it in his pocket. “It’s concerning something very important, I assure you.”
Wakaba shook her head. “I’m sorry, but I’m very busy; I don’t have time for whatever it is you need.” She said, beginning to close the door.
Ren shot his foot out to stop it. “Not even when it concerns your research on cognitive psience and the safety of your daughter?” He asked, his smile turning into a slight frown. “Or, more so, your employer Masayoshi Shido?”
Wakaba froze before she opened the door again, her eyes searching Ren’s. “...How do you—?”
“Like I said, it’s very important that I speak with you.” He said firmly, but kept his distance. “I have a lot to say, and I think you’ll be interested in it.”
A few minutes later, Ren found himself sitting on a comfy couch. He gratefully took a cup of coffee from Wakaba’s hands. She took a seat across from him, taking a long sip before she placed it on the table in front of them.
“What do you know?” She asked, getting straight to the point.
Ren smiled wryly and placed down his own cup. “Isshiki-san, what I’m about to tell you might sound… a little unbelievable, but I assure you it’s real.” He said, leaning back and beginning to fiddle with the ring around his middle finger. “You’re the premier researcher in cognitive psience, and that’s why I’ve decided to warn you.”
“I am here to tell you that the worlds that exist within people’s subconscious are indeed real. They do exist, and… they are very dangerous.” He held up a hand to stop her from interrupting. “Ma’am, I understand that this might be hard to believe, but right now, Masayoshi Shido is currently planning on killing you and framing it as a suicide.”
Wakaba’s eyes widened, but she said nothing.
Ren continued. “He plans on doing this using the cognitive world. There’s a place that’s created by the human subconscious; it’s called ‘Mementos’, and it holds these… Shadows, if you will.” He said, taking a sip of his drink. “These Shadows are, in essence, your cognitive self. They’re made up of one's other half. Everyone has one.”
“...Other… Half?”
“That’s right. And, if these ‘other halves’ get distorted, they can become so unstable with distorted desires that they will break off of Mementos into a branch of their own world. A Palace.” He explained as he leaned back and let out a breath. “I know this is a lot to take in, Isshiki-san, but I need your cooperation right now. Shido wants your research; he doesn’t necessarily need you dead for that, but he’s going to want you dead anyway.”
“B-But… Futaba—”
“Sojiro Sakura will be an excellent caretaker for your daughter.” He reassured her. “As long as you listen to me, I promise you, I can make sure you still be able to see your daughter. But… it’ll be tough.”
“I always knew that Shido-san was…” She shook her head. “But I couldn’t—well, no, I can certainly imagine him taking me out like that.” She muttered bitterly. She looked up to meet his gaze. “If it means keeping my daughter safe, what do I have to do?”
Ren smirked inwardly. This was going great. “It’s simple. You need Shido and everyone else in his pockets to believe you to be dead. But first… we need to make sure that he isn’t able to initiate a mental shutdown on you.”
“A mental shutdown?” She repeated, confusion coloring her features. “I’m not familiar with the term.”
“When someone’s Shadow dies…” He started, tongue heavy, before he swallowed and continued. “When someone’s Shadow dies, they lose most of their cognitive ability. They become… braindead in a sense, but much more lethal. A part of you dies; your desires die. Desire to eat, drink, sleep, live .”
Wakaba was staring off into the distance as he allowed that information to sink in. She met his eyes determinedly. “There’s a way to prevent it?”
Ren nodded. “Yes.”
“I’ll do it.”
He wasn’t that taken aback by her sudden acceptance, but it still caught him off guard. “That quick? Are you sure you don’t want to think about this?”
“It’s for my daughter, Amamiya-san.” She said sternly. “I’ll do anything for her.”
He eyed her for a moment before he nodded softly. “Right then. Hope you’re up for a trip to Shibuya, Isshiki-san.” He said, standing up with a smile. “It won’t be long, and I’ll explain to you my plan while we’re on the way.”
“I’m trusting you, Amamiya-san.” She stood up to send a glare at him. It wasn’t anything compared to Sae’s or Makoto’s, but it definitely still had its heavy dosage of ice. “Don’t make me regret it.”
“I won’t. Now come on.”
As Ren swerved to the left of someone on Central Street, he was once again reminded that Futaba was definitely her mother’s daughter. Because she just wouldn’t stop asking questions. He found it cute at first, but after the first ten minutes, it got a bit old.
That’s not even mentioning all the worries she had when it came to his plan of faking her kidnapping. That definitely got her attention, and if he was being honest, she was able to come up with a much more thorough plan than him in record time.
“I can even make sure Shido-san is there the day you decide to do it.” She said, causing him to freeze in his tracks.
He turned around slowly, eyes wide. “You can?”
She nodded. “All I have to do is breathe about a step in taking control of someone’s cognitive sense, and he’ll come running down there in nothing but his underwear.”
He shuddered. “Thanks for putting that imagery in my head.” He muttered as he leaned up against the entrance to the train station. “Come on, lean up next to me.” He jerked his head to motion where she should stand, and she obliged.
They sat in silence for a bit until she eventually cleared her throat. “So, is there something I’m supposed to be doing?” She asked amusedly.
Ren shook his head. “Nope.” He turned to face her. “Here’s what’s going to happen. I’m going to vanish in front of you, okay? I’m going to do something to your Shadow; it’ll feel a bit weird, but it’s perfectly harmless. If I’m not back in an hour, head back to your home and wait for me there.”
She narrowed her eyes. “You’re making this sound dangerous.”
“It is.” He said, only to hold up his palms at her look. “To someone who isn’t me.” He flashed her a cocky grin. “Trust me, I know what I’m doing.” He gave her a nod. “See you in a bit.” He started to clench his ring, feeling himself imagine Mementos in his mind.
“Wait, what are you going to do—”
He felt the sensation of the Metaverse wash over him, and he let out a breath, opening his eyes to see the entrance to Mementos. He put on a wry smile as he pulled off his mask to rub his face.
Arsene appeared next to him, sending his other self a look. Ren merely scowled at him. “Don’t give me that look.” He muttered as he started to walk down the steps. “This is the best idea I’ve been able to come up with, and you certainly weren’t helping.”
The gentleman thief rolled his eyes before he vanished, Ren’s mask fizzling back onto his face. His boots hit the bottom of the stairs, and he started his long journey into the depths. He allowed Ongyo-Ki to come to the forefront of his mind; the ultimate Persona for the Hermit arcana had simple but strong navigational abilities.
And he certainly wasn’t looking forward to getting lost in this damn place.
It was a long, quiet walk down the tunnels of Mementos. Nearly all of the Shadows would leave him alone, always skirting out of the way of his path as he walked by. Those that didn’t were quickly dispatched by a shot from his pistol or a snap of his fingers courtesy of Arsene.
His mind twinged as he stepped off the escalator, and he perked up. Looks like he’s made it to the right floor. He pulled out his pistol and started his journey, searching around the floor for his target.
He rounded a corner, only to pause when his eyes landed on the swirling portal. His grip on his pistol grew tighter before he shoved it back into his jacket and took off into a sprint, leaping and tucking into a ball as he dove into the portal.
He felt his back hit roughly against the ground, and he flipped back up to his feet in a flourish. He heard the scattered applause of his Personas in his head, and he couldn’t help but flash a smirk. It faded quickly, though, when his eyes went ahead to see the hunched-over Shadow.
He frowned and slid his hand into his pockets as he walked up to Wakaba’s Shadow. “Isshiki-san?” He said softly as he stopped just a few meters from her. “Everything alright?”
The Shadow whipped her head up, and she stood up with a growl. “Who are you?” She demanded, pointing a finger at him warningly. “What are you doing here?”
“I’m here to talk to you.” He said, leaning back on one of his legs casually. “It’s me, Ren, remember?” He smiled slightly. “I’m here to help.”
She shook her head. “No, you’re here to take it from me.” She retorted hotly. “I won’t let you have it. I… I-I have to finish it.” She muttered as she scratched at her fingers. “ I have to. ”
“You’re letting this research overtake you.” He said gently. He licked his lips before he sighed softly. “Isshiki-san… Have you ever wondered if this research was worth it?”
Wakaba’s Shadow looked to meet his eyes at that. “What?”
“Shido wants to kill you, you know that? He has the means and the ability to. If you’re gone, what do you think will happen to the research? More importantly… What do you think will happen to your daughter?” He questioned, narrowing his eyes slightly.
“I…” Wakaba blinked a few times before she furrowed her brow. “My family would take care of her. Sojiro would.”
“You really believe that?” He asked, tilting his head. “Sakura would, yeah, but do you think your family would? Really? They can hardly stand you . What makes you think they’ll treat your daughter any better?”
Wakaba flinched. “That’s…” She let out a breathy sigh and fell to her knees. “I… What am I doing?”
Ren went over to crouch down and put a hand on her shoulder. “Isshiki-san. Look at me.” He said, garnering her attention. “Remember what I told you? I have a plan, and it’ll help you and Futaba. She’ll stay with Sakura-san. She’ll be safe . I’ll make sure of it, I swear .”
Wakaba stared at him for a few long moments before she nodded softly. “Alright… Thank you, Amamiya-san.” She said softly before she vanished in a bright light.
Ren covered his eyes before the light died down. He put down his hand and walked over to the small item on the ground. He reached down and gently plucked it up, turning the small piece of paper over in his fingers.
Discovery Made in Nuclear Science! New Costless Energy?
He brushed his thumb over the article, giving it a once-over before he pocketed it and turned on his heel. He started to make his way back up to the surface. Wakaba was safe from Akechi; he made sure of that.
Now it’s just a matter of making sure she disappears in the real world, too.
Ren tapped his fingers along his thigh idly, his dark eyes shining in the evening sky. He was crouched just across from Wakaba’s research facility, eyes darting around the building anxiously. He jumped slightly when his burner pinged; he fished out the device before he read the message from Wakaba. He skimmed it, reading that she was in position and had placed the calling card.
He smirked before he broke the phone and tossed the pieces as far as his arm would allow him. Which, honestly, was pretty far.
He pulled up his bandana, muttering out, “It’s showtime.” Before he leapt onto the roof of the facility, just narrowly catching himself on a ledge. He pulled himself up and stealthily moved along the roof, eventually sliding to a stop at a skylight. He peered inside before he reached into his jacket and pulled out the small smoke bomb he was able to put together.
With a deep breath he lifted up the skylight and pulled off the pin of the smoke bomb. He waited for a few seconds before he dropped it into the opening. He watched it fall until it bounced next to a worker.
“Boom.”
The smoke bomb exploded in a hazy mist of grey. Chaos ensued, and Ren quickly closed the window before he sprinted across the roof as alarms started to blare across the place. He slid to a stop before he grabbed a nearby pipe and slid down onto the ground.
He glanced around quickly before he made his way over to where he was supposed to meet—
CRACK
He blinked when he felt something smash over his head, though he didn’t really feel it, considering his ring and all. He turned around to see Wakaba holding a tree branch, her eyes wide.
“...Nice swing.” He said dryly.
Wakaba squeaked and flushed bright red. “Oh, I’m so sorry, Amamiya-san!” She dropped the now broken branch and held up her hands hesitantly. “A-Are you alright?”
“Perfectly fine, Isshiki-san.” He gave her a toothy smile under his bandana, but he was sure she got the message. “Now come on, you said Sakura and Futaba were meeting you nearby, right?”
She nodded. “Yeah, he’s going to drive me and then take care of Futaba while I’m gone.”
“That’s good. Just make sure if they ever come to visit to leave no evidence. Cash only.” He said sternly. He did not go through all this trouble just to have her get snatched out from under his nose. “You’ll be hiding for a while, but I’ll contact you when it’s safe to come back, alright?”
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a wad of bills. “This is ¥500,000.” He said, trying not to smirk as her eyes nearly bulged out of her head. “This should be able to keep you afloat for a while, okay?”
She shakily took the money before tucking it into her coat. “R-Right.” She swallowed before she looked up to meet his eyes. “Is this where we part ways?”
“Unfortunately.”
She nodded with pursed lips before she gave him a tentative smile. “Thank you, Amamiya-san.” She reached up to brush his cheek. “You’re a wonderful young man, and I just hope you know what you’re doing when it comes to this.”
Ren froze at the contact but didn’t pull away. Outside of Sae, he hasn’t had much, if any, physical contact with anyone. “Of course I do, Isshiki-san.” He replied tersely, trying to hide the quiver in his voice. “I’m a very capable guy.”
She nodded. “...Thank you again, Ren.” She said before turning and taking towards the nearby alley.
Ren watched her leave before he hopped up onto the facility’s roof, noticing flashing red and blue lights barreling down the road towards the building. He huffed before he took off, leaping over to another building and vanishing into the darkness of the night.
Mission complete. Helluva good job out there, Joker.
“Ren-kun.”
Ren looked up from his journal at Sae’s voice, who was nose-deep in her laptop. “Yes, Sae-chan?” He said, placing down the item and putting his full attention on her. “Is something wrong? You’ve been rather quiet.”
“I would… like your opinion on something that’s happened recently.” She said, working her mouth for a moment before she looked up to meet his eyes. “Did you hear about the attack on the research facility a few weeks ago?”
Of course, I caused it. “Only in passing. Haven’t decided to do much looking into it. Figured I had better things to worry about, y’know?” He took a sip of his coffee. “...Any particular reason why you’re asking?”
Her fingers tapped against the wooden table in a rhythm. “I recently got put on the case.”
He blinked before a big grin stretched across his face. “Sae-chan, that’s great!” He said brightly before he sombered. “That is… good, right?” He asked with a wince.
She sighed before a small smile grew on her lips. “Yes, Ren-kun, it’s good.” She took a sip of her drink. “I’ve been given an opportunity, and I’m not going to let it slip through my fingers.” She let out a breath. “I’ve been looking into the facility, as requested of me, but I can’t find much. There only seems to be one worker who was reported missing and not accounted for afterwards.”
“...And that is?”
“It was the facility's top researcher, Wakaba Isshiki.” She answered, tapping away on her laptop. “My boss believes it to be foul play. A kidnapping.” She muttered with a shake of her head. “And I have no reason to not believe him. There was a calling card too, not signed, but it stated that Isshiki was now in ‘good’ hands.” She said, curling her fingers to form quotation marks.
“Certainly sounds like trouble.” Ren scratched his chin. “What were they researching?”
Sae sniffed. “Classified.” She grumbled. “For now.”
“From you or from me?”
“Both of us.”
“Yikes. Must be really important.” He leaned back in his seat, frowning slightly. “So they won’t even let you know what they were researching, and they expect you to solve the case?” He asked incredulously. “How does that make any sense?”
“It doesn’t, but I’m in no position to argue with them. I’ve been given a chance, and I’m not going to waste it, Ren-kun.” She sighed heavily and leaned back as well. “I want to be someone that Makoto looks up to.”
Ren smiled fondly. “I’m sure you already are, Sae-chan.” He said firmly. “You’re her big sister, after all.”
Sae’s lips twitched up into a small smile. “Thanks, Ren-kun.”
Ren nodded before he went back to his journal. He’s been keeping tabs on Futaba and Sojiro, and from all accounts, they’ve been fine. Sojiro has been able to keep custody of Futaba due to some documents that Wakaba had drawn up shortly before her ‘kidnapping’.
He glanced at his bag, knowing that his bandana was hiding just beneath his gloves. He twitched briefly before focusing back on his journal. He’ll admit that adrenaline rush he got from that night was… unbelievable .
He realized something that night. Who says he had to wait around for the Trickster of this world to show up? Who says he can’t go out and help people by being a phantom thief in reality? No one.
Maybe he can’t help the urge inside of him to do good. But he has a gift; why shouldn’t he take advantage of it? People are out there hurting, in pain, constantly. He can do something about it; why shouldn’t he?
He tapped his pencil against his journal absently.
Maybe Tokyo could use a vigilante.