Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

16/11/2016

Are you free right now?

Not much we can do for Sae-san but wait, now.

We’re nearing the end of my tenure with the Phantom Thieves, aren’t we?

How does a trip to the jazz club sound? We could chat a little.

Amamiya: That sounds good.

Great. I’ll meet you there.

17/11/2016

Please let me know when you are planning to send the calling card.

Amamiya: Come to Leblanc after school tomorrow.

Amamiya: I’ll make us some coffee before the others get here.

Is there a reason in particular that you would have me come early?

Amamiya: Not really.

Amamiya: I just want to see you, I guess.

I see.

Well then, I suppose I could stop by a bit early.

Amamiya: Thanks, Akechi.

[Messages] Phantom Thieves Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 7 others

18/11/2016

Joker: Meet at the hideout at 4:30.

Skull: Gotcha, leader!

Affirmative. Are we sending the calling card?

Oracle: Duh. You gave us the deadline, remember????

Of course. I was merely confirming.

Queen: Noir and I will be there. Would anyone like us to bring snacks?

Skull: YEAH

Skull: Do you even have to ask asdjfhgk

Oracle: im fine i have instant yakisoba

Oracle: get ur own tho im not sharing w/ u noobs

Panther: Are you bringing anything sweet?

Noir: I made cupcakes last night! I’ll bring enough for all of you :)

That’s very thoughtful of you, Noir.

Noir: It’s no problem! :)

Joker: Noir coming in clutch with the real snacks over here

Joker: has anyone heard from fox?

Joker: He’s not answering his phone

Skull: o yea hes fine, i’ll get him on my way over

Skull: he won’t have the train fare on his own LMAO

Queen: I really do question his… lifestyle choices sometimes.

Fox: [ ... typing]

Skull: oh hi fox

Fox: [ … typing]

Oracle: i bet fox spent all his money on paint again

Oracle: or he got more lobsters

Fox: [ … typing]

Oracle: INARI GET ON WITH IT

Fox: My sincerest apologies everyone, I am only just seeing these messages now. I became distracted in my painting after finding sublime inspiration in one of the birds that visits my dorm windowsill. It’s luscious plumage drew my attention from the first moment, and I simply could not resist immortalizing the graceful way it perched at my window in the dimming afternoon light.

Skull: yeah yeah but are you coming to the hideout for 4:30?

Fox: ... Could one of you be so kind as to transfer me enough for the train fare?

Oracle: INARI

Fox: I do not understand why you take issue with my request, Oracle.

Queen: I’ll transfer it to you Fix. Just make sure you’re there.

Fox: I will be forever in your debt.

I am afraid I must be going. I will see you all this afternoon.

Good day.

[99+ unread messages]

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

19/11/2016

Amamiya: I told the group chat but I figured you have it muted.

Amamiya: Meet at the hideout after school today.

Thank you. I figured as much, but I appreciate your message nonetheless.

Amamiya: np Akechi. 

20/11/2016

For what it’s worth, I’m sorry. [Message Removed]

10/12/2016

Amamiya: Akechi?

Amamiya: Akechi

Amamiya: Akechi

Amamiya: Akechi are you there

Amamiya: Please answer me we don’t have to talk just 

Amamiya: just let me know you’re okay

Amamiya: please just say something i don’t care what it is

Amamiya: Goro

Amamiya: please

Amamiya: I know you hate me but i don’t care

Amamiya: GORO

Amamiya: PLEASE

Amamiya: oracle said your signal disappeared

Amamiya: and i know that you are strong

Amamiya: but we both saw those shadows and that cognition and

Amamiya: just let me know you’re not dead

Amamiya: you don’t have to speak to me ever again just 

Amamiya: please don’t be dead

12/12/2016

Amamiya: Goro Akechi goddamnit sAY SOMETHING

13/12/2016

Amamiya: I can’t believe that you’re gone.

Amamiya: I won’t believe that.

18/12/2016

Amamiya: i’m so sorry akechi i

Amamiya: this is all my fault

24/12/2016

Amamiya: You are SUCH AN ASSHOLE I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU

Amamiya: You LITERALLY ghost me for weeks, and make me think you’re DEAD and then you SHOW UP OUT OF NOWHERE AND TURN YOURSELF IN

Amamiya: I’m so mad at you

Amamiya: literally

Amamiya: I have never been so mad at anyone in my life EVER

Amamiya: and I killed god today

Amamiya: I’m glad you’re okay. Really really glad.

Amamiya: I don’t know if you will even see these since you’re in police custody now. If you do, though, PLEASE message me

Amamiya: we really need to talk about what happened

Amamiya: and I want to see you

Amamiya: … if you even want to see me, that is

Amamiya: Anyway - tl;dr, you’re the world’s biggest asshole but I’m glad you’re not dead. 

Amamiya: Merry Christmas, Akechi.

01/01/2017 - 03/02/2017

DATA CORRUPTED

13/02/2017

Amamiya: Goro?

Amamiya: Are you there?

Amamiya: I got out of prison today, if you’re around.

Amamiya: If you aren’t or if you don’t want to see me, that’s okay i won’t be mad

Amamiya: but

Amamiya: if you could let me know that you’re okay

Amamiya: i would really really appreciate that

14/02/2017

Amamiya: Happy Valentine’s Day Goro

20/02/2017

Amamiya: I don’t know what I expected to happen

Amamiya: I know what you said and what Maruki said

Amamiya: about what happened before

Amamiya: on Shido’s ship

Amamiya: I just didn’t want to believe it

Amamiya: I should have expected that you wouldn’t be here

Amamiya: that’s the price you pay when you fuck with god i guess

Amamiya: I did what you wanted. You were right, existing like that wasn’t living

Amamiya: but you’re gone now, for real

Amamiya: and this doesn’t feel like living either

20/03/2017

Amamiya: I’m leaving for Inaba today

Amamiya: I still have your glove.

10/04/2017

Amamiya: Started my 3rd year today, back at Yasogami. 

Amamiya: Morgana still comes to school with me. 

Amamiya: He almost got caught today - my English teacher has cat allergies.

Amamiya: She kept sneezing, and Mona would NOT stop laughing inside my desk.

Amamiya: You probably wouldn’t have found it half as funny as we did.

Amamiya: She’s rude to me though, bc of my reputation.

Amamiya: so i don’t feel as bad as I maybe should

Amamiya: Funny how the conviction got overturned but they still look at me like I’m about to pull out a knife. Can’t get a job out here either. 

Amamiya: It sucks.

Amamiya: I miss Tokyo.

Amamiya: I still have your glove.

02/06/2017

Amamiya: The internet says it’s your birthday today.

Amamiya: I hope it’s right, because you never actually told me what it was.

Amamiya: What would have been the point, since we met after your last one and you were set to kill me before the next. And then you died, so it probably wasn’t on your mind that much.

Amamiya: It’s funny how things turned out.

Amamiya: A bit backwards from the plan.

Amamiya: Anyway, I made pancakes in your honour. And coffee.

Amamiya: They’re still warm if you want them.

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: haha pancake boy

Amamiya: Happy Birthday Goro :)

Amamiya: I still have your glove.

09/06/2017

Amamiya: Hey Goro guess what

Amamiya: it’s your pancake anniversary!!!!

Amamiya: happy pancakiversary!!

Amamiya: in all seriousness though

Amamiya: we met a year ago. Well, officially, a year ago tomorrow, but still.

Amamiya: you’d call me a sentimental moron for saying this but i’ll say it anyway:

Amamiya: I miss you. You were (ARE) important to me. No matter how things ended, what you did, or what I did… I still care about you. Thank you for giving me your time when you did, because every moment was precious beyond words.

Amamiya: … and I still have your glove.

10/06/2017

Amamiya: it just occurred to me that you died exactly 6 months after we met

Amamiya: fate is fucking cruel

Amamiya: i’m sorry

23/07/2017

Amamiya: it’s SUMMER BREAK!! :D

Amamiya: I’m coming back to Tokyo tomorrow. Staying at Leblanc for a bit

Amamiya: I wonder if Sojiro got a new bed for the attic or if it’s still on milk crates

Amamiya: knowing him, he probably forgot about it

Amamiya: i bet the attic is COVERED in dust

Amamiya: it still feels like home

24/07/2017

Amamiya: Honey I’m home

Welcome home.

Amamiya: Goro?!!!!!!???

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

24/07/2017 - 11:14pm

Amamiya: Goro what the fuck

Amamiya: Who is this

Amamiya: whoever has this number, it isn’t funny

Amamiya: who are you and why are you contacting me

You were right the first time. It’s Akechi.

Amamiya: I already told you this isn’t funny.

Then it’s a good thing I’m not laughing.

If you don’t believe me, I can prove it.

Outgoing Video Call - 11:21pm

Call Declined by Ren Amamiya

Outgoing Voice Call - 11:22pm

Call Declined by Ren Amamiya

Joker. Pick up the damn phone.

Amamiya: Sorry i

Amamiya: i just need a minute

That’s fine. Take your time.

I’ll be here when you’re ready.

Amamiya: will you

Yes.

Amamiya: ok

Incoming Video Call - 11:43pm

Call Ended - Duration: 1min26sec

Amamiya: You hung up on me.

I don’t have all day to spend on the phone like you apparently do. I’ve proved my identity.

Amamiya: fuck off

Amamiya: im sorry i don’t mean that

Amamiya: im sorry

Calm down, it’s fine.

Amamiya: I almost can’t believe it

Amamiya: It’s really you

Amamiya: you’re alive

Evidently, I am.

Amamiya: Don’t be an ass. I thought you were dead, Goro.

Amamiya: Where the hell have you been all this time???

Amamiya: it’s been MONTHS

My phone was only returned to me last night.

Amamiya: ummm that’s pretty sketchy to say without context...

Amamiya: are you okay?

I’m perfectly fine.

Amamiya: I um

Amamiya: I won’t ask for things you might not want to share

Amamiya: but i’m here if you want to talk about it

Thank you.

Amamiya: of course

Amamiya: do you have somewhere you’re staying?

Amamiya: Are you even still in Tokyo?

I have my housing situation covered.

And no, I am not in Tokyo.

Amamiya: oh. Is it okay if I ask where you are?

No.

Amamiya: okay

Amamiya: that’s okay

Amamiya: i won’t pry or anything

Amamiya: i’m just

Amamiya: I’m glad you’re safe

Amamiya: can i tell the others?

Amamiya: they would want to know

Amamiya: we’ve all been worried sick about you

Amamiya: i mean, you can see the log of messages here

Do as you please. It’s none of my business.

Amamiya: Goro, no, don’t be like that. We care about you.

Then you’re all morons.

Amamiya: Goro

Amamiya: Akechi

Amamiya: Akechi seriously

Amamiya: they’ll be happy to know you’re okay

I didn’t say no, Amamiya. Tell them whatever you want.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

25/07/2017 - 1:37am

Unknown: What the hell akechi

25/07/2017 - 7:23am

And to whom do I owe this pleasure?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

25/07/2017 - 7:24am

You’ve really sent the peanut gallery after me, haven’t you.

Is this meant to be a form of punishment?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

25/07/2017 - 10:31am

Unknown: It’s Ryuji u dipshit.

Unknown: don’t pretend u forgot who i am

I’m not pretending. I’d simply deleted your number from my phone.

[Contact Added: Ryuji Sakamoto]

Sakamoto: oof thats COLD dude

Sakamoto: anywaysssssss

Sakamoto: welcome back dude

Why are you messaging me, Sakamoto?

Sakamoto: because ur my friend???

Sakamoto: aaaaand you basically just came back from the dead?????

I was never dead.

Sakamoto: yeah well that’s news to us

Sakamoto: ‘taba was yelling something about night romance tea?

Necromancy?

Sakamoto: yeah, that

Sakamoto: ghosts n shit i think

I’m going to ask you again.

Why are you messaging me?

Sakamoto: god ur so effin difficult sometimes

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

25/07/2017 - 2:06pm

Yoshizawa: Hello Akechi-senpai! I heard from Ren-senpai that you reached out to him.

Yoshizawa: I must say, it is truly a relief to hear that you are okay.

Thank you, Yoshizawa-san. How have you been faring?

Yoshizawa: Please just call me Sumire! :) We’re friends, after all.

If you insist, Sumire-chan.

I suppose you may call me Goro as well.

Yoshizawa: Alright, Goro-senpai! 

Yoshizawa: I’ve been fine, I guess.

Yoshizawa: To be honest, well… we were all shaken up by your disappearance. Ren-senpai especially.

I expected as much from Joker.

I’m not sure it’s worth much, but I am sorry for upsetting you in particular.

Yoshizawa: It’s okay, I’m just glad you’re back now.

Yoshizawa: You’re my friend, and I care about you.

So I continue being told.

Yoshizawa: Aww Goro-senpai, it’s true! We missed you.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

25/07/2017 - 3:12pm

Amamiya: If you consider friendship a punishment, then yes.

No comment.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

25/07/2017 - 6:45pm

I do make a point to practice my apparent insufferability.

Sakamoto: THERE u go!!!!! 

Sakamoto: wb to the snarky akechi!

Sakamoto: ur way more fun this way

Sakamoto: also idk if ren told u yet but be careful of that EMMA app

Sakamoto: it’s bad news

I have not heard of this particular app, but I appreciate the warning nonetheless.

Sakamoto: np bro

Sakamoto: so are u gonna come visit soon?

25/07/2017 - 9:12pm

I’m not in Tokyo.

Sakamoto: oh, that sucks

Sakamoto: where u been at anyway?

I rather not disclose that information.

Sakamoto: that’s fine, u don’t gotta share if u don’t want to

Sakamoto: the others might be a bit pushy tho but i won’t ask if u don’t wanna talk about it

Sakamoto: Just glad ur ok after all that Maruki shit

Sakamoto: you had us pretty worried

Goodnight, Sakamoto.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

26/07/2017 - 10:49am

Takamaki: Akechi!!

Takamaki: Ren said you’re alive!!!! We are all seriously relieved!!!

Takamaki: We should get crepes sometime and catch up!

Good morning, Takamaki-san.

That is kind of you, however I am not in Tokyo.

Takamaki: Well neither was Ren, but I’m still gonna get crepes with him.

Good for you.

However, unlike Joker, I don’t intend to return to Tokyo.

Takamaki: Awww not even to visit???

No.

Takamaki: well we could always come to you

Also no.

Takamaki: ughhhhh finnnnee

Takamaki: oh well, i tried

Takamaki: so! How have you been?

Fine.

Yourself?

Takamaki: All good over here!

I’m glad to hear that.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

27/07/2017 - 11:56pm

Amamiya: Akechi

Yes?

Amamiya: Sorry i don’t mean to wake you

Amamiya: it’s been a long day and this is the first chance I’ve had to say anything but

Amamiya: please be careful, wherever you are

28/07/2017 - 12:04am

I am always careful.

Amamiya: don’t trust anyone

Is there something happening that I should be concerned about?

Amamiya: no

Amamiya: yes

Amamiya: i don’t know

Joker.

Amamiya: Crow.

You are truly a magnet for trouble, aren’t you?

Amamiya: haha you can say that again

Amamiya: something is happening. I don’t know what it is yet though

Amamiya: but i think

Amamiya: i think it’s the metaverse again

Amamiya: just

Amamiya: please be careful ok?

Okay. I will be.

Amamiya: thank you

28/07/2017 - 3:21am

Joker?

You be careful too.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

29/07/2017 - 6:21pm

What the HELL did you do?!

Joker?!

Your fucking mask is all over the news.

What on earth possessed you to send a calling card?! 

ON LIVE TV.

You should be laying low. You KNOW the police are still looking for a scapegoat.

You just painted a giant fucking target on your back, you idiot.

I can’t fucking BELIEVE you.

29/07/2017 - 7:12pm

You are an absolute moron.

You had better explain yourself once you’re done with this childish nonsense.

Killing a god twice wasn’t enough for your ego, I suppose.

29/07/2017 - 8:48pm

Oh my god Joker for fuck’s sake

Answer me.

29/07/2017 - 9:37pm

Amamiya: Oh my god

Amamiya: I’m SO sorry, Akechi!!! I should have told you about this first.

Amamiya: We were in a bit of a rush, so I didn’t even think…

Damn right you didn’t THINK

YOU NEVER THINK

You’re all over national news now, you dumbass.

Amamiya: Well shit.

Yep.

Amamiya: It’s fine. I have the situation under control.

Do you.

I find that extremely difficult to believe.

Amamiya: I do. Mostly.

Amamiya: It’s complicated. The police are involved, but we made a deal with them.

Amamiya: We may have to send a few more calling cards.

You’re kidding.

29/07/2017 - 11:14pm

Joker.

You’re kidding, right.

You didn’t SERIOUSLY get involved with the police again.

Amamiya: Not kidding. Sorry.

oh my god

I could have sworn you had a brain last time I saw you.

Was country life really so boring that it killed all of your brain cells?!

Amamiya: It’s not great, I know.

Amamiya: But our hands are tied on this one.

Since WHEN have YOUR hands ever been tied

You do realize that half of the police force was in Shido’s pocket, right?

Even with him out of the picture, they’re still corrupt.

They are going to crush you the first chance they get.

Amamiya: You think I don’t know that?!!

Amamiya: I don’t like this any more than you do!

Amamiya: but you weren’t THERE

Amamiya: fuck

Amamiya: I don’t expect you to understand.

Good.

Because I don’t.

Understand.

Amamiya: Fine. That’s fine. You don’t need to.

Amamiya: Just trust me, okay?

Amamiya: Please?

That’s a big ask, Ren.

Amamiya: I know.

I’ll think about it.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

30/07/2017 - 9:08am

Sakamoto: Yo Akechi!

Sakamoto: did u see our latest calling card??????

Sakamoto: pretty awesome, right?!

You’re going to get yourselves arrested.

Sakamoto: nah man ren’s got it covered ;D

I assure you, he doesn’t.

Sakamoto: ???????

Regardless of what he’s said to your group, he doesn’t have it covered.

You are being exceedingly reckless.

Sakamoto: have a little faith, man

Sakamoto: we’ll be fine

Sakamoto: we’ve made it thru worse than this

That’s not as reassuring as you think it is.

Sakamoto: fr Akechi chill out dude

Sakamoto: it’s FINE

Sakamoto: we’re just gonna take down a few monarchs and we’ll be done before you know it.

Sakamoto: besides, cop man is cuttin us a deal for helpin him out

Monarch?

Cop man?

Sakamoto: o yea thats what they’re called now

Sakamoto: Jails instead of palaces, monarch instead of palace ruler or whatevr

Ok that’s fine.

Now elaborate on the ‘cop man’ part.

Please.

Sakamoto: Ren srsly didn’t tell u any of this already??

No. He didn’t.

He briefly mentioned a deal with the police, but he did not provide any details.

Sakamoto: oh uh

Sakamoto: 1 sec brb

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

30/07/2017 - 9:32am

Amamiya: Can you please just stay out of this new metaverse stuff?

Amamiya: The less you know, the safer you are.

Hm.

…

No.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

30/07/2017 - 9:36am

Sakamoto.

Joker told you not to say anything, didn’t he?

Sakamoto: yea sorry man

Sakamoto: it prolly for the best

Right. And Joker said that?

Sakamoto?

Fine, then. I’ll find out what the hell you’re doing eventually.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

30/07/2017 - 9:50am

Hello Sumire-chan.

I do apologize if this question seems odd, but it is important.

Perchance, have you seen the news recently?

Yoshizawa: Good morning to you as well , Goro-senpai :)

Yoshizawa: Are you referring to the calling card Ren-senpai and the others sent last night?

That would be it, yes.

Yoshizawa: I’ll admit, I am more than a little confused about that.

Yoshizawa: Didn’t the metaverse disappear after we defeated Maruki?

Apparently it has returned.

Joker refuses to tell me more than that.

Sakamoto was kind enough to warn me not to use that EMMA app.

Yoshizawa: EMMA? What’s wrong with the app?

I do not know for sure, but I expect it is related to the return of the metaverse.

I’ve done what little research I can into the functionality.

My best guess is that it operates similarly to the Meta-Nav, using the Keyword function.

Although, this is only speculation, so please take it as such.

Yoshizawa: That’s concerning.

Yoshizawa: Are the others okay? Ren-senpai hasn’t mentioned any of this to me.

Joker and Sakamoto both insist they are fine.

I’m not inclined to believe them.

Joker would say he is “fine” if he were actively dying.

Yoshizawa: You seem worried about him.

Of course I am.

He’s a reckless idiot.

And he refuses to tell me anything.

Yoshizawa: I’ll see what I can do.

Yoshizawa: He may be more inclined to talk to me about it.

Thank you Sumire.

Yoshizawa: He cares about you, Goro-senpai. He was devastated when he thought you were

Yoshizawa: um

Yoshizawa: He is probably scared for you, and wants to protect you.

I don’t need his protection.

I don’t want him to protect me.

I want him not to get himself killed.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

30/07/2017 - 10:41am

Amamiya: Care to explain why Sumire is messaging me about the metaverse?

You’re the one who sent a calling card on live TV.

Amamiya: fuck off. 

Amamiya: I know you said something to her.

Amamiya: why are you bringing her into this?

Because you’re stupid.

30/07/2017 - 11:25am

Moronic.

Brainless.

Foolish.

Obtuse.

Imbecilic.

Senseless.

Irrational.

Reckless.

30/07/2017 - 11:58am

Amamiya: I can read a thesaurus myself, but thanks.

I hate you.

[Contact Ren Amamiya was blocked by Goro Akechi] - 12:02pm

Amamiya: I still have your glove. [Message Not Received]

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

Email: [email protected]

YO LOSER - unread
[email protected] - 30/07/2017 1:14pm

Subject: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:14pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Akechi why is your email address so nerdy

You’re such a loser oh my god

Unblock Ren or I’m going to hack your phone and do it for you

______

Subject: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:22pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Good afternoon Sakura-san,

I will unblock Amamiya-kun when I am ready to do so. I would appreciate you not hacking into my phone.

Regards,

Goro Akechi

______

Subject: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:23pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Haha loser!!!!! who even uses an email sig anymore

Too late.  That’s what you get for not heeding the GREAT ALIBABA

MUAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Also what are you doing in Osaka?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:35pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

It is none of your business what I am doing in Osaka. 

Do not contact me again.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:35pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Your location data shows you at Osaka Minato Central Hospital.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:36pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

If you say anything about this to Ren, I will flay you.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 30/07/2017 1:38pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Unblock him in the next 5 minutes and I’ll keep it to myself.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

30/07/2017 - 1:39pm

[Contact Ren Amamiya was unblocked by Goro Akechi] - 1:39pm

Amamiya: I’m sorry I snapped at you.

You should be.

… I accept your apology.

Amamiya: I don’t want to fight anymore.

Amamiya: Can we just

Amamiya: idk

Amamiya: start over???

Amamiya: not from scratch or anything like that

Amamiya: just… 

Amamiya: I miss you and I don’t want us to fight

… That’s fine.

Amamiya: thank you

Amamiya: really

Amamiya: i mean it

30/07/2017 - 7:58pm

I owe you an apology as well. I was being overly harsh with you. I’m simply worried about your safety. I know you’re doing your best.[Message Removed]

Don’t mention it.

Email: [email protected]

RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - unread
[email protected] - 31/07/0217 3:11am

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: YO LOSER - 31/07/0217 3:11am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

You owe me BIG TIME buddy.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

31/07/2017 - 10:55am

Amamiya: Morning Goro

Amamiya: How are you?

I’m fine. Yourself?

Amamiya: Good! We are leaving on a bit of a road trip this morning, so I’m just packing before we go.

Oh, I see.

Where are you going?

Amamiya: The plan is to be in Sapporo by August 8th, but we are gonna stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Amamiya: First stop is Sendai, gonna be there by tonight.

Amamiya: Assuming Makoto doesn’t crash the RV lmao

That’s a concerning thought.

Although, I doubt someone as careful as Niijima-san would allow you to crash.

Amamiya: Yeah lol, that was mostly a joke

Well then, I don’t want to distract you from your time with your friends.

Have a safe trip.

Amamiya: no no no you’re not distracting me!

Amamiya: also you’re one of my friends too

Amamiya: you can’t distract me from my friends if you’re one of them :P

You know what I meant.

Amamiya: yeah I know

Amamiya: don’t worry about that tho

Amamiya: WAIT

Amamiya: WAIT I JUST HAD THE BEST IDEA

Should I be wary of what this idea might be?

Amamiya: I SHOULD ADD YOU TO THE PT MEME GROUP CHAT

While that is an intriguing (and somewhat terrifying) concept, I doubt your friends would be particularly enthused with it.

Amamiya: No no they would be fine with it!!! 

Amamiya: I can check with them first if it would make you feel better

Yes. Please do that first.

31/07/2017 - 11:34am

Amamiya: They all agreed! They’re excited, even!

Even Sakura-san and Okumura-san?

Amamiya: yes, even Haru and Futaba.

You’re certain about that?

I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence. [Message Removed]

Amamiya: Yes, Goro, I’m sure.

Alright then.

Go ahead.

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 8 others

31/07/2017 - 11:45am

[Ren Amamiya added Goro Akechi to the chat] - 11:45am

Jonker: Hey everyone!!!! Say hi to Goro!!!

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

31/07/2017 - 11:46am

“Jonker”???

Really, Amamiya?

Amamiya: lol yes really

Amamiya: I’m sure they’ll give you a nickname too

Good lord.

What have I just agreed to...

Amamiya: oh that’s easy

Amamiya: it’s unfiltered chaos >:D

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 8 others

31/07/2017 - 11:47am

Pæntor: Welcome back, Akechi-kun.

BootyThief: Welcome back.

BootyThief: Mako-chan also says “Welcome Back” but she is currently driving.

All Hail Alibaba: haha nerd.

Human Pretzel: Hi Goro-senpai!

ForRealFriends: HI AKECHI

ForRealFriends: oops

ForRealFriends: hi akechi

Cougar: Hey Akechi-kun!

Thank you.

But… I must say

Good lord.

What are your names even supposed to mean?

All Hail Alibaba: You have no sense of humor.

I have an excellent sense of humor, thank you very much.

Jonker: Goro needs a nickname.

Jonker: Taba, u on it?

All Hail Alibaba: OF COURSE?

All Hail Alibaba: do u even have to ask???????

[All Hail Alibaba changed Goro Akechi’s nickname to Ultimate Loser] - 12:03pm

I suppose I deserve that.

[All Hail Alibaba changed Goro Akechi’s nickname to He’s Died] - 12:04pm

… Okay I’ll admit that’s marginally better.

Jonker: wait 

Jonker: wait omg we forgot the baby

Jonker: I can’t believe we forgot the baby

Um

Do I want to ask?

ForRealFriends: nah dude it’s fine don’t ask

Jonker: FUTABA ADD THE BABY TO THIS CHAT

All Hail Alibaba: Roger!

[All Hail Alibaba added Sophia to the chat] - 12:11pm

[All Hail Alibaba changed Sophia’s nickname to A Eye] - 12:11pm

A Eye: Hello everyone!

Jonker: Hi Sophia!

ForRealFriends: Hi Sophia!

Pæntor: Greetings Sophia.

BootyThief: Hi Sophia :)

Cougar: Hi Sophia!!!! <3

Jonker: Goro, Sumire: meet Sophia!

A Eye: Hello Goro Akechi and Sumire Yoshizawa. It is a pleasure to meet you. My name is Sophia, and I am Humanity’s Companion! :)

Human Pretzel: Nice to meet you too, Sophia!

It’s my pleasure, Sophia.

I’m curious, however, what you mean by “Humanity’s Companion”.

A Eye: I want to understand the human heart! The Phantom Thieves are helping me learn about it.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

31/07/2017 - 12:21pm

I fully do not understand what Sophia is talking about.

Amamiya: Oh, sorry yeah, she is an AI that we found in a box inside the metaverse.

Come again?

Amamiya: Exactly what I said.

Amamiya: it’s a bit weird, but she helped us out in Shibuya, and now we are helping her.

Amamiya: Kind of like how we met Mona.

Amamiya: She has no memories either.

That’s unfortunate for her.

Amamiya: yeah it is.

She’s a sentient AI for which you do not know the source.

You have given her your full identities and unprotected access to your phones.

That seems dangerous.

Are you sure you can trust her?

Amamiya: I mean, I’m not 100% sure about anything rn. But I think so

That’s very typical of you.

Amamiya: yeah i guess it is

Amamiya: I trusted you, after all, didn’t I?

And I tried to kill you. Twice.

So, you can see how well that turned out.

Amamiya: ugh that came out wrong

Amamiya: not what I meant

What else could you have possibly meant?

Amamiya: I don’t know. Let’s just… pretend I didn’t say that.

Amamiya: I’m sorry

31/07/2017 - 1:46pm

Amamiya: Goro?

31/07/2017 - 3:12pm

Amamiya: I didn’t mean it like that.

Amamiya: I’m sorry

Amamiya: I trusted you. I DO trust you.

Amamiya: I don’t regret any of that

Amamiya: The only thing I regret was not reaching out to you sooner

Amamiya: Before Sae’s palace

Amamiya: it was my fault how things turned out

Amamiya: and beyond that, it was Shido’s fault

Amamiya: and Yaldabaoth’s

Amamiya: I’ve never blamed you for it

you should

Amamiya: Goro, no.

Amamiya: No.

Amamiya: It wasn’t your fault.

how can you say that

Amamiya: Because I mean it. I really do.

spare me your pity

Amamiya: That’s not what this is.

leave me alone

Amamiya: Goro, don’t do this.

Amamiya: It’s not pity, it’s just the truth.

Amamiya: I care about you. I don’t blame you for what happened.

Amamiya: please don’t leave

Amamiya: please goro

31/07/2017 - 4:01pm

I need some time alone

To think

Amamiya: okay

Amamiya: okay yeah

Amamiya: talk to you later, then?

Yes. Talk to you later.

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

31/07/2017 - 7:46pm

[99+ unread messages]

Pæntor: And that, my friends, is why you should never drink the medicinal bathing water in the bathhouse.

All Hail Alibaba: Inari none of us wanted to hear that story

Pæntor: That is objectively false! Ryuji made it very clear that he was interested in the events.

ForRealFriends: hell yeah i did

I’m not going to ask.

ForRealFriends: oh hey ‘kechi

Hello Sakamoto

May I ask why you are texting this chat if you are already together in person?

All Hail Alibaba: some things are too cursed not to be immortalized in text format

I see.

Well, I wish you all a good night.

BootyThief: Thank you, Akechi. :)

BootyThief: To you as well.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

31/07/2017 - 9:34pm

Amamiya: Hey Goro

Amamiya: I saw you in the group chat earlier.

Amamiya: Are you feeling any better now?

Yes, I am doing better now.

Thanks for asking.

Amamiya: Np.

Amamiya: I want to apologize again for earlier.

Amamiya: I was out of line.

An apology is not needed.

You were not out of line.

I simply wasn’t prepared to talk about topics of that nature and I… reacted poorly.

Amamiya: That’s okay, I completely understand.

Amamiya: We should talk about that stuff at some point, but it can wait until you’re ready.

Amamiya: I’ll be more careful with my comments about that stuff.

Well, I appreciate that.

Shall we discuss something else?

Amamiya: Sure, yeah, good idea.

How was your drive to Sendai? I trust you arrived safely?

Amamiya: Oh, yes we did! It was long and boring but not too bad overall. Mona sat on my lap the whole time.

Ah, do pass on my regards to Morgana.

Amamiya: he says hi

Amamiya: he also said that

Amamiya: ada asdrguha ka

Amamiya: alsdkfuj g ---------sjfla

Amamiya: sorry, he swatted my phone out of my hand!!!!

lol

Amamiya: omg did you just say lol

You can read.

Is something wrong with that?

Amamiya: No!! Not at all!! You’ve just never done that before

Amamiya: it was cute [Message Removed]

Amamiya: anyway apparently Mona didn’t want me to tell you that

Amamiya: sajlgkh       igai .,........,

Amamiya: 13wdsaf

Amamiya: FFS MONA DID IT AGAIN 

Maybe it’s a sign.

Amamiya: yeah, a sign that he’s an ASSHOLE

Amamiya: anyway, what have you been up to???

Amamiya: did you pick up any new hobbies?

Amamiya: Or are you still keeping busy with work and stuff?

I have not been doing much.

No work.

It’s quite boring, actually.

Amamiya: Oh, that’s a bit sad.

Amamiya: You like featherman, right?

Amamiya: I could get Futaba to send you her pirated versions of some of the rarer movie releases? That’s something to do.

I don’t want to put anyone out. I imagine she is already quite busy.

Amamiya: Nah it would only take her a few seconds. She’d just send u a link to her private server where she’s got it all saved.

Oh.

That sounds quite nice.

I might ask her for that, then.

Thank you for the idea.

Amamiya: anytime :D

Amamiya: So you’re finished highschool, right? Are you in university now?

31/07/2017 - 10:23pm

No.

To both.

Amamiya: Wait, what do you mean?? 

Amamiya: You had the top grades in your class last year! What do you mean you didn’t graduate?

I didn’t graduate.

I have to repeat my 3rd year.

Amamiya: Oooh so we are in the same year now :)

Also no.

Amamiya: ok now I’m really confused

To be in 3rd year now, I would have needed to start back in April.

Due to certain circumstances, that was not possible.

I will be starting my 3rd year again next April.

Amamiya: What circumstances??? 

Amamiya: You weren’t detained by the police, were you????

No, nothing of that nature.

Amamiya: What was it, then? Are you okay?

I’ve already told you, I’m fine.

I don’t want to talk about it.

Amamiya: Okay, I won’t ask again.

Thank you.

How is your 3rd year going?

Amamiya: It’s okay. Some of the concepts are tricky, especially in Math.

Amamiya: That’s okay though, I’ll get through it.

Amamiya: Makoto offered to help me study, but I know she’s super busy already with her own classwork at university, so I don’t actually plan on asking her.

Amamiya: Ryuji and I buddied up instead and are trying to help each other through it.

Well, I don’t mean to intrude or imply that the two of you are not capable yourselves.

But.

I happen to have a decent recollection of 3rd year concepts, at least up until December’s subject matter.

And I currently find myself with a significant amount of free time on my hands

So

I wouldn’t mind helping you and Sakamoto with your studying.

Amamiya: oh my god

Amamiya: you

Amamiya: are you serious?

Yes? Is there a reason I wouldn’t be?

Amamiya: you are the best

Amamiya: you have no idea

Amamiya: literally

Amamiya: thank you so much

Amamiya: i could actually kiss you

Um.

There’s no need for that.

Amamiya: ahahaha i mean it as an expression, don’t worry

Amamiya: thank you SO MUCH

Amamiya: I’m going to make us a studying group chat

Amamiya: god this is such a relief

Amamiya: thank you

Of course.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Math is hard - Ren Amamiya, Ryuji Sakamoto +1 other

01/08/2017 - 10:02am

Sakamoto: Akechi u r THE BEST

Sakamoto: Ren is my best bro

Sakamoto: but u might me 2nd best

That’s quite the title, Sakamoto.

Sakamoto: omg dude just call me Ryujii

Sakamoto: i’m BEGGIN u

Sakamoto: i’m not a grandpa

Then beg.

Amamiya: oooo kinky

Sakamoto: ewww gross ren stop that

Sakamoto: Ren did that 2 me 2

Sakamoto: what is it w u guys

Sakamoto: my name is RYUJI

Sakamoto: R

Sakamoto: Y

Sakamoto: U

Sakamoto: J

Sakamoto: I

The problem is not my ability to spell your given name.

Sakamoto: Then there shouldn’t be a problem (:

Of course not, Sakamoto. (:

Amamiya: is that an emoticon?

Amamiya: from GORO AKECHI????

Amamiya: i never thought i’d see the day

Sakamoto: D:

:D

Amamiya: what is even happening right now

A battle of the wits, Joker.

Oh right, I forgot, you don’t have any of those.

Amamiya: D:

Sakamoto: D:

C:<

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

01/08/2017 - 10:19am

[99+ unread messages]

ForRealFriends: Akechi is being mean to me

All Hail Alibaba: GASP

All Hail Alibaba: AKECHI????

All Hail Alibaba: being MEAN????

All Hail Alibaba: that’s IMPOSSIBLE

ForRealFriends: not u too D:

C:<

ForRealFriends: SEE WHAT I MEAN

Cougar: OH MY GOD GORO USED AN EMOTICON

My. Name. Is. Akechi.

Only Ren has permission to call me Goro.

Cougar: sorry!!!! 

Cougar: *OH MY GOD AKECHI USED AN EMOTICON

Thank you. That’s better.

Jonker: ikr i was just as surprised as u @ Cougar

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

01/08/2017 - 10:32am

Amamiya: heads up we’re gonna be a bit busy today. 

That’s understandable. You are on vacation, after all.

Enjoy yourself.

Amamiya: Thanks Akechi :)

Amamiya: Have a good day!

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

01/08/2017 - 9:48pm

ForRealFriends: That Ango Natsume guy was SUCH AN ASSHOLE

ForRealFriends: At least we managed to get his keyword tho

ForRealFriends: i wanna smash some stuff in his jail as payback

Mom: Ryuji wrong chat

ForRealFriends: SHIT SHIT SHIT

ForRealFriends: SORRY

ForRealFriends: SOPHIA CAN YOU DELETE THIS BEFORE AKECHI SEES????

I’ve already seen it.

ForRealFriends: are you effing kidding me

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

01/08/2017 - 9:50pm

Joker.

Amamiya: Hi Crow.

So.

Are you going to tell me what’s going on?

Amamiya: No, I’m not.

You’re going back into the metaverse.

Again.

Even after the idiodic stunt you pulled in Shibuya.

Amamiya: Yes, I am.

Why?

Haven’t you done enough?

Amamiya: I don’t really have a choice.

Yes. You do.

Amamiya: What do you think I should do, then?

Amamiya: Nothing???

Amamiya: Sit and watch while the metaverse is used to make innocent people suffer AGAIN?

YES.

That’s exactly what I’m saying.

This shit isn’t your responsibility.

Amamiya: Maybe not, but no one else is going to do anything about it

Amamiya: No one else CAN do anything about it

Amamiya: So I will.

I don’t know why I even bother arguing with you.

You’re too bullheaded to listen to reason.

You think you’re always right.

I can’t stand you.

Amamiya: I’m doing what I think is right.

Amamiya: I’m “sticking to my justice”. Isn’t that how you would put it?

I don’t care about your justice if it gets you killed.

Amamiya: You certainly still cared about YOURS [Message Removed]

Amamiya: It’s not going to get me or anyone else killed.

You don’t know that.

Amamiya: I’m not going to let that happen.

Newsflash, Joker. You don’t always get a say.

Amamiya: I know, okay???

Amamiya: I’m being careful. I promise I’m being careful.

Amamiya: What do I have to do for you to stop freaking out over this?

I’m not freaking out.

Amamiya: Yes you are!!!!

Fine.

I’m concerned.

I wouldn’t call that freaking out.

Amamiya: Still. What can I do to make this less of an issue?

Amamiya: WITHOUT us stopping altogether

You could tell me what’s going on, first of all.

Amamiya: UGH FINE

Amamiya: If I tell you, you have to promise not to try and enter the metaverse again.

Amamiya: Especially not on your own.

Why do I need to promise that?

Amamiya: Goro. It’s dangerous.

So am I.

You seem to have forgotten that part.

Amamiya: I haven’t forgotten

Amamiya: I just

Amamiya: I’m worried, okay? It’s different this time.

Amamya: The metaverse is different. The rules are different.

Amamiya: I’m scared, okay?

Amamiya: and i can’t

Amamiya: ugh

Amamiya: nvm

You can’t WHAT, Joker?

Say it.

What the hell are you so afraid of?

Amamiya: Isn’t it obvious?

Amamiya: Goro

Amamiya: I can’t lose you again.

Amamiya: You died, Goro, and it was my fault. Both times.

It wasn’t your fault.

And besides, I didn’t die.

Amamiya: yeah

Amamiya: you’re right, you didn’t

Amamiya: but I thought you DID

Amamiya: and now i’m terrified that it’s going to happen again

Amamiya: that i’m going to lose you

Amamiya: for real this time

Amamiya: AGAIN

What happens to me is none of your concern.

Amamiya: don’t say that

Amamiya: that’s not fair

Amamiya: You’re important to me. I care about you, okay?

Okay.

Amamiya: Okay??

I promise I won’t try entering the metaverse.

Besides, I’m not currently in fighting shape. I don’t have a death wish, unlike yourself.

Amamiya: Can I trust you to keep that promise?

You and I both know that I keep my promises.

Amamiya: Yeah 

Amamiya: You’re right

Amamiya: Wait a sec, what do you mean by you’re “not in fighting shape”?

Amamiya: I thought you said you were okay??

For the LAST TIME JOKER. I am FINE.

That’s all you need to know.

Amamiya: Goro

Amamiya: Are you really?

FUCK OFF.

01/08/2017 - 10:50pm

I apologize. That was rude of me.

I’ll tell you more eventually.

I ask for your patience for now.

Please.

Amamiya: Okay.

Amamiya: I can wait however long.

Amamiya: Until you’re ready.

I appreciate it.

Now, Joker.

Tell me what in the absolute hell is going on.

Incoming Voice Call - 10:55pm

Call Ended - Duration: 2hr19min35sec

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

02/08/2017 - 8:03am

Sakamoto: Hey so uh

Sakamoto: i know i said it on the call last night but still

Sakamoto: im rly sorry about gettin all weird yesterday in the gc

Sakamoto: i didn’t mean to cause trouble bw u an ren

It’s fine, Sakamoto.

Really.

Sakamoto: no hard feelings?

None at all.

Sakamoto: thats a relief :)

Sakamoto: ur really important to him

So he keeps telling me.

Sakamoto: u are!!! he means it!

Sakamoto: an ren’s my best bro

Sakamoto: so ur important to me too

...

I don’t understand you.

Any of you, for that matter.

But

Um

Thanks, Ryuji.

Sakamoto: Awwww yES

Sakamoto: not so hard to use my name, was it?

I suppose it wasn’t.

Sakamoto: for real!

Sakamoto: so are we friends too, then??

I don’t have friends.

Sakamoto: ok that’s bullshit an u know it

Sakamoto: i don’t mean it in a bad way, just like,,,

Sakamoto: any 1 of us would go to bat 4u

Sakamoto: AND idc what you think about it

Sakamoto: plus if u EVER tell ren that he’s not ur friend

Sakamoto: i WILL find u and punch u in ur prettyboy face

I see.

Sakamoto: i see u, Goro Akechi, and i see right through ur “too cool for friends” act

Sakamoto: u can’t get away with it anymore

Email: [email protected]

HAHA NERD - unread
[email protected] - 02/08/2017 10:40am

Subject: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 10:40am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

NERDDDDDDDDDDDDDD

______

Subject: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 10:46am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Do you have a reason for sending me this, Sakura-san? Or is this apropos of nothing?

______

Subject: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 10:47am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Nah i just like pulling ur leg

Here’s the link for my featherman treasure trove. Ren said u were like SUPER bored

Do u even have wifi at that hospital????

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:12am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

That’s very generous of you. Thank you, Sakura-san.

I do have wifi. It’s surprisingly fast as well, as public wifi goes.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:13am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

PUBLIC??!!!???!?!??!!?!?!??!

Ew GROSS

Im setting u up with a vpn ASAP

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:15am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

There’s really no need for that. I’m fine with what I have - it’s not truly public. It’s hard to explain, but it’s fine as it is.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:16am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Um no. no its not. For sum1 so concerned abt shido’s men finding ren (DON’T THINK I’M NOT WATCHING U SEARCH THEIR DB MR DETECTIVE) ur not hiding urself very well. Ur hospital records are even in ur own name. Are u stupid???

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:18am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I didn’t exactly get a choice for the name they wrote down. I would appreciate it if you didn’t dig into my personal matters, thank you.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:37am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Im not looking thru ur records. Too busy to care abt that rn.

I did change ur name on them tho. Nice 2 meet u Katsumi Kubo XD That was tough tho - this place has some MEGA TIGHT SECURITY on their servers. Took me 10 mins just to get in and that’s a new record right there my dude

Also downloaded the vpn to ur phone and turned it on. The ip changes every 10 secs and no one but me has access to it MUAHAHA so ur fine now.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:50am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Wow, the great Alibaba, bested by some pesky hospital servers? Never thought I’d see the day.

Sakura-san... please don’t say anything to Ren about this. I don’t want him to know yet.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: HAHA NERD - 02/08/2017 11:37am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

NOT A WORD, U POINTY TORTELLINI

(dw ur little secret is safe w me)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

02/08/2017 - 11:48am

Amamiya: morning Goro

Amamiya: anyway so what I was trying to say last night before Ryuji totally crashed our call

Amamiya: is that today the plan is to enter Ango Natsumi's jail after I stock up on supplies.

Amamiya: I've just finished shopping so if you don't hear from us for a while, that's why.

I don't like this.

Amamiya: I know.

Amamiya: but we'll be careful

Amamiya: super careful.

And you're absolutely certain that there's nothing I can do or say to dissuade you?

Amamiya: Nope! :)

Fine.

Message me when you get back.

Amamiya: of course

Amamiya: it's sweet of you to be worried about us, but you really don't need to be.

Amamiya: this isn't our first rodeo.

I'm not worried.

Amamiya: is that so?

It is.

You're idiots, the lot of you, and I can't be there to babysit you imbeciles.

I don't like uncertainties.

Amamiya: yeah I know:)

Amamiya: it will be okay, Goro

Amamiya: I promise.

It had better be.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

02/08/2017 - 12:42pm

Hello, Sumire-chan.

Yoshizawa: oh my gosh I am SO SORRY Goro-senpai!!!! 

Yoshizawa: I never got back to you about what Ren-senpai told me.

Yoshizawa: I'm so sorry, I've been travelling for a tournament and it completely slipped my mind.

That's okay, don't worry about it.

Yoshizawa: No, it's not okay, I told you I would get back to you and I didn't.

Yoshizawa: Please forgive me!!!!

It's really fine, Sumire.

Yoshizawa: Ren-senpai wouldn't tell me much of anything, either.

Yoshizawa: He seemed upset that I was asking.

Yoshizawa: He even asked if you had put me up to it.

I talked to him about this last night, actually.

That's why I'm messaging you. To let you know what's going on.

But, you're right, he was quite upset.

Yoshizawa: Oh no, I hope that wasn't my fault. :(

Yoshizawa: Is everyone okay?

Yoshizawa: I saw the messages in the group as well. The ones Ryuji sent.

Yoshizawa: They aren't in trouble, are they?

No, it's not your fault.

They are in trouble. At least, that's my read on the situation.

I can explain some of the details, although I do not fully understand the mechanics behind it.

Yoshizawa: Oh, yes please. Any information is better than none.

My thoughts exactly.

Ren didn't seem to think so, however.

We haven't been seeing eye to eye these last few days.

Yoshizawa: I'm sorry to hear that.

Joker can be so frustrating sometimes.

He acts like he's invincible all the time.

Yoshizawa: He does. It was quite amazing when we were in Maruki's reality. 

Yoshizawa: But I understand why you're worried about him.

I'm not.

I'm not worried about Joker.

02/08/2017 - 2:16pm

You mentioned that you are travelling for a tournament?

Yoshizawa: Oh, yes! I just arrived in Osaka last night, and I'll be here for the week.

Best of luck to you, in that case.

I have full confidence that you will come out on top.

Yoshizawa: Thank you, Goro-senpai!! That means a lot to me :)

Of course.

02/08/2017 - 3:28pm

You're in Osaka?

Yoshizawa: Correct!

... can I trust you to keep a secret?

Yoshizawa: Omg of course. What's going on??

I require your utmost discretion, Sumire-chan. No one can know about this outside of the two of us. Especially not Ren.

Yoshizawa: I swear my secrecy. Not a word to anyone.

Thank you.

Outgoing Video Call - 3:48pm

Call Ended: Duration - 24mins33sec

Yoshizawa: Thank you for putting your trust in me, Goro-senpai. I will do my best to be worthy of it.

You already are, Sumire.

I'll see you tomorrow?

Yoshizawa: Yes! I wouldn't miss it for anything! :)

Yoshizawa: I have to get back to practice now. Talk to you later!

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

02/08/2017 - 7:45pm

Amamiya: Hey!!! We're back!

How did it go?

Amamiya: It went alright. The guy's got a pretty wild imagination. I felt like we were larping or something.

Ah.

And your plan for tomorrow?

Amamiya: secure the route, defeat the lock keeper in the trauma cell, and send the calling card.

Ok.

And you're well prepared?

Amamiya: yes

Amamiya: I told you, you don't have to worry. We've got this under control.

I'm not worrying.

Amamiya: You're literally fretting. Like. I don't know what else to call it.

I am not.

Amamiya: Sure you aren't.

Drop it, Joker.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

Email: [email protected]

Question - sent
[email protected] - 03/08/2017 2:40am

Subject: Question - 03/08/2017 2:40am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Why are you being nice to me?

______

Subject: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 2:42am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I see ur question, and i raise u a better question:

y are u such a fkn neeeeeerd?

______

Subject: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 2:49am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I see your additional question, and raise you an even better question:

Why are you awake right now?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 2:53am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I don’t need sleep like all you mortal losers

Im nice to u because i know things you dont

SECRET things~~~~~ nananana

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 2:49am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Perhaps you might be amenable to sharing the details of those things?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 2:53am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

nooopeeeeee

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 3:32am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Futaba.

I murdered your mother.

Why are you even speaking to me at all?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 3:52am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

You wouldn’t understand.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 4:01am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

You’re probably right.

I’d like to try anyway, if you would let me.

I won’t ask for forgiveness. I don’t deserve it after the things I did, especially to you and Okumura-san. I just… can’t wrap my head around why you’re going out of your way to interact with me at all.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 4:18am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

You’re right, you don’t deserve forgiveness. I don’t forgive you. I don’t want to forgive you.

But.

Ren cares about you. And he wants you around. And I don’t want to be angry all the time anymore. 

So no, you aren’t forgiven. But you are friends with my friends. 

So it’s easier to be nice to you.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 4:23am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Thank you, Sakura-san. I appreciate you sharing that with me.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 4:25am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I didn’t do it for you.

Also? stop calling me sakura-san. That’s sojiro. If u don’t want to call me futaba then call me alibaba or oracle but like just stop making my name sound so weird

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Question - 03/08/2017 4:28am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Noted.

______

Subject: REx13: Question - 03/08/2017 4:40am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

also!! wtf akechi ur letting sumi visit u and ur not even telling ren where you are??? what the actual fuck

______

Subject: REx14: Question - 03/08/2017 4:43am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I see you have resumed your stalking tendencies.

______

Subject: REx15: Question - 03/08/2017 4:48am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

dont avoid the question

You know you’ll have to tell him eventually, right?

______

Subject: REx16: Question - 03/08/2017 4:52am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Yes, I know. 

My current circumstances are temporary, and I don’t want him to see me like this. We both know that the moment he knows where I am, he will come barging in, and no force on heaven or earth would be able to stop him. I’m not ready for that.

______

Subject: REx17: Question - 03/08/2017 4:56am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I get it.

You know he wouldn’t care about that, right?

______

Subject: REx18: Question - 03/08/2017 4:59am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I thought you said you weren’t going to read my medical files?

______

Subject: REx19: Question - 03/08/2017 5:02am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I only saw a bit when I was changing your name, dw

It doesn’t really matter what it is, anyway.

Ren won’t care either way.

______

Subject: REx20: Question - 03/08/2017 5:06am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I know he won’t. It’s not him I’m concerned with in this case.

______

Subject: REx21: Question - 03/08/2017 5:08am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

but ur ok to have sumi there???

______

Subject: REx22: Question - 03/08/2017 5:11am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Sumire is a different scenario altogether. We have an understanding between us, beyond the promise of discretion that I’m sure you read in our messages.

______

Subject: REx23: Question - 03/08/2017 5:12am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Sry i didn’t mean that in an attacking sort of way

More like concern i guess?

But ur right, sumi is different

______

Subject: REx24: Question - 03/08/2017 5:14am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Oh. 

Yes, she is.

______

Subject: REx25: Question - 03/08/2017 5:34am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Are you and the others seriously okay with going back into the metaverse?

______

Subject: REx26: Question - 03/08/2017 5:41am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

YES OH MY GOD STOP ASKING you keep asking ren and like, it’s annoying. Stop it.

Don’t get me wrong, it sucks BIG TIME

But like, its fine and WE’re fine and you need to stop twisting ur panties in a big knot about it u dummy

Why are u so worked up about this anyway???? U used to rip those shadows apart like u LIVED for it back in jan. i thought u loved it??

______

Subject: REx27: Question - 03/08/2017 5:51am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I wish I knew the answer to that.

It doesn’t make a lot of sense, does it.

I get a horrible sinking feeling when I think about you all going back in there. Like something terrible is going to happen. Especially when it comes to Ren. Especially with the police as involved as they are.

______

Subject: REx28: Question - 03/08/2017 5:56am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Huh.

Points for honesty i guess

You don’t need to worry about us tho. We really do have this under control. U don’t kill god twice without getting some MAJOR exp

______

Subject: REx29: Question - 03/08/2017 5:58am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I’ll admit, you at least make a strong point in your favour.

Besides, I’m not worried.

______

Subject: REx30: Question - 03/08/2017 5:59am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Do i need to send u a link to the word ‘worried’ in the dictionary?????????? 

______

Subject: REx31: Question - 03/08/2017 6:01am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

No.

Goodnight, Futaba-san.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

03/08/2017 - 7:56am

Amamiya: morning goro

Amamiya: gonna be gone most of the day

Amamiya: i’ll tell u abt it when were done, gtg

Amamiya: hope u have a good day

03/08/2017 - 12:34pm

Amamiya: hey we are taking a break for lunch

Amamiya: and taba needs a nap

Amamiya: she’s like a zombie today!!! I even asked her about it and she gave me some bs excuse

Amamiya: she said something about trolling scammers online last night?

Amamiya: but i think

Amamiya: she was probably just watching featherman all night

Amamiya: either way we needed a break

Amamiya: seeeeeeeee goro? we are being careful!! This is proof!

Amamiya: people who ARENT careful would just push through

03/08/2017 - 1:12pm

Good morning

*afternoon

I’m glad you’re being careful. Good luck today.

I would also suspect that she was watching Featherman all night.

Are you sure you’re not the one in need of a nap, by the way you are typing?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

03/08/2017 - 3:35pm

Yoshizawa: Hi Goro-senpai :) Practice just finished so I’m going to grab a shower and then I’ll be on my way over!

Hello Sumire-chan.

I trust your practice went well?

Yoshizawa: It did, yes.

Yoshizawa:  My coach actually took a video of my newest routine!

Yoshizawa: I can send it to you, if you want. I’m quite proud of this one :)

I would love to see it, if you are willing to share.

Yoshizawa: sent a video

Yoshizawa: I made a few mistakes but overall it turned out okay

Yoshizawa: I missed a half-rotation on the turn at 1:05 so I lost a few points, and fumbled my catch at 0:43…

Yoshizawa: But I’ll keep trying!! I just need to practice more.

That’s a very impressive routine. You should give yourself more credit.

You executed it beautifully.

Yoshizawa: Thank you, senpai :)

Yoshizawa: I’m glad you think so :)

I do.

I should remind you to eat something before you arrive here.

The food is… not great.

Yoshizawa: Oh! Don’t worry about that! I already packed 2 bentos, one for each of us!

Yoshizawa: There won’t be any issues bringing those into the hospital, will there?

You’re too kind, Sumire.

No, you should be fine to bring them in.

Don’t forget to sign in at the desk.

If they give you any trouble, tell them I invited you, and mention me by name.

Yoshizawa: I will!! :) I’ll see you soon

03/08/2017 - 4:16pm

Yoshizawa: Sorry, I know you told me yesterday, but what room are you in?

West wing, room 643.

Yoshizawa: Got it!! :) be there in a few mins

03/08/2017 - 8:32pm

Yoshizawa: I made it back to my hotel!

Yoshizawa: Thank you again for inviting me to visit. It was really good to see you again.

Yoshizawa: I promise I will keep this between us. Cross my heart!

I’m glad to hear you made it back safely.

I’ve already told you that I trust you, Sumire. You don’t need to keep promising.

Yoshizawa: I know, but it just feels right to say it.

And thank you again for bringing dinner.

The food here truly is awful.

Yoshizawa: I can only imagine. It must be super bland :(

Painfully so.

I don’t know how many more times I can stomach blanched carrots.

Yoshizawa: Cooking them that way doesn’t even retain the nutrients!!

Yoshizawa: How do they expect you to stay healthy like that??

Surely they would have a dietician on staff that could tell the kitchen these types of things.

They probably don’t care, though. Most patients aren’t here long enough for it to matter, anyway.

Yoshizawa: But you have been. And will be, from what you said…

That’s true.

Yoshizawa: :( I’m sorry, senpai.

Don’t be. It’s fine.

I’ll survive.

Yoshizawa: I wouldn’t expect anything less from someone like you.

Yoshizawa: But still...

Yoshizawa: I’ll stop by after practice again tomorrow and bring you something healthy!

Yoshizawa: I’ll do that every day that I’m here! :)

Sumire, that’s not necessary.

Truly.

Yoshizawa: Nonsense!! You can’t do physical rehabilitation without proper nutrition!

Yoshizawa: You need good protein and fats to build back muscle mass, and lots of vitamins to give you energy.

You don’t need to go out of your way for me.

I’m fine with how things are now.

Yoshizawa: Goro, stop arguing with me! I want to help you.

Yoshizawa: You’re my friend. I want to see you. I’m not going ‘out of my way’.

03/08/2017 - 9:21pm

Yoshizawa: I’ll bring you good coffee, too.

Yoshizawa: I know how much you love when Ren-senpai makes it for you.

Yoshizawa: And, excuse my language, but the coffee at the hospital has to be utter shit.

…

Ok.

That’s tempting.

Yoshizawa: I knew it :)

Yoshizawa: I’ll see you tomorrow, Goro.

Okay.

See you tomorrow, Sumire.

Thank you again.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

03/08/2017 - 9:43pm

Amamiya: We’re back.

Glad to hear it.

I take it your mission was successful?

Amamiya: More or less, yeah.

Amamiya: Calling card is going out tonight.

I appreciate the warning.

Amamiya: This one won’t be on live TV this time, but it might still hit the news.

Ah, so you have learned some measure of common sense.

Amamiya: Yup!!

Amamiya: Oh. Mona disagrees with that.

Amamiya: He says

Amamiya: dsjhgk sds _=ad===g

Amamiya: FUCK U MONA

Amamiya: He says I’m not gonna say his sentence right...

He could always tell me what he wants to say himself, assuming he would be so inclined.

Amamiya: How?? He can’t type with his toe beans???

You’re literally holding a PHONE, Amamiya.

Outgoing Video Call - 9:56pm

Call Ended: Duration - 6min46sec

Go to bed, Joker. You look like you were hit by a truck.

Amamiya: Feels that way too.

Amamiya: Still have to send the card tho. Then, yes:

Amamiya: The sweet release of unconsciousness.

Get on with it, then.

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

03/08/2017 - 11:53pm

[99+ unread messages]

Jonker: Callig caed ssent goodnigt evryon

Goodnight Joker.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

04/08/2017 - 6:01am

[99+ unread messages]

Best of luck to you all with your heist today.

Cougar: Thanks, Akechi!

BootyThief: Thank you.

Human Pretzel: Yes! As Goro-senpai said, good luck today. I believe in you!

Mom: Thanks Akechi and Sumire, we appreciate it.

Cougar: WAIT I THOUGHT REN WAS THE ONLY ONE ALLOWED TO CALL AKECHI BY HIS FIRST NAME

Cougar: Not fair!!!!!!

I lied.

Sumire-chan also has permission.

The rest of you do not.

All Hail Alibaba: @He’s Died shut up nerd

Mom: Futaba…….

All Hail Alibaba: sorry momkoto…..

All Hail Alibaba: HAHA PSYCH

[All Hail Alibaba changed Goro Akechi’s nickname to NERD] - 6:25am

… really?

Jonker: seriously u guys it’s way too early for this

Jonker: why are u even awake rn

I have an appointment to keep.

Human Pretzel: I’m up early for practice!

Jonker: That’s fine, I’m more concerned about the rest of the gang.

All Hail Alibaba: i don’t sleep u know this

Jonker: Futaba you literally had to take a nap halfway through the infiltration yesterday.

All Hail Alibaba: shut up

Jonker: no

Jonker: Seriously. As the leader, I’m ordering everyone currently on Phantom Thief duty to go back to bed NOW.

Jonker: if I hear anyone up before 10am i’m going to be very mad

All Hail Alibaba: ooooooooh u can’t scare me Joker

All Hail Alibaba: i’ve seen ur search history

All Hail Alibaba: ur threats mean nothing to me

Jonker: I’m serious, Futaba.

Jonker: Go to sleep. This is important. We need to be in top shape today, and at this rate the notifications are going to wake everyone else up.

All Hail Alibaba: ok fine. 10am. then i release chaos

Jonker: Thank you.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

04/08/2017 - 6:41am

It's somewhat jarring to see you act as a leader again.

Amamiya: Yeah?

Amamiya: Why’s that?

Just been a while, I guess.

Go back to sleep. You have a big day ahead.

Amamiya: Thanks, Goro. Have a good appointment.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

04/08/2017 - 1:30pm

Yoshizawa: Practice is over! We’re out pretty early today.

Yoshizawa: Just heading back to the hotel then I’ll be on my way.

04/08/2017 - 2:13pm

Yoshizawa: On my way! :)

04/08/2017 - 2:32pm

Yoshizawa: I’m here, but the nurses said you’re currently unavailable???

Yoshizawa: Should I leave and come back?

Yoshizawa: You’re not hurt or sick, are you???

04/08/2017 - 2:46pm

Are you still close by?

I apologize, I did not expect your practice to be out so early.

I was in physiotherapy. Everything’s fine. I’m simply a bit tired.

Yoshizawa: Oh! That’s good!

Yoshizawa: Yes, I am just downstairs, near the gift shop.

You’re welcome to wait in my room.

I need to shower, so it might be another 20-30 minutes before I return. I’m sorry.

You don’t have to wait for me if you have somewhere else to be.

Yoshizawa: No, no! Don’t apologize! I’m the one who came early. I’ll see you soon, take your time Goro-senpai. :)

Thanks. See you soon.

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

04/08/2017 - 4:53pm

[99+ unread messages]

ForRealFriends: DESIRES = RETURNED

ForRealFriends: BOOYEAH

Booyeah?

ForRealFriends: uh, yeah??

BootyThief: Great work as always, team! :) <3

Jonker: Well said, Noir.

You realize this is the meme chat, correct?

ForRealFriends: yea we kno we just thought u might also wanna know

ForRealFriends: u never respond to the memes anyway???????

I don’t fully understand them.

Mom: Why don’t we simply add Sumire and Akechi back to the regular Phantom Thieves chat?

Jonker: That also works. Assuming you want that? @ Human Pretzel @ NERD

Human Pretzel: I’d like that! Congratulations on the successful heist.

Jonker: thanks sumi :)

I’d be fine with that as well.

Jonker: Sophia??

A Eye: On it!! do do do~~

Is that meant to mean something?

ForRealFriends: yeah she’s singing!!

BootyThief: It’s super adorable! I wish you could hear her!

I’m sure you’re right.

[Messages] Phantom Thieves OFFICIAL Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

04/08/2017 - 5:01pm

[Sophie added Goro Akechi to the chat] - 5:01pm

[Sophie added Sumire Yoshizawa to the chat] - 5:01pm

Joker: Thanks Sophie!

[Joker changed Goro Akechi’s nickname to Crow] - 5:02pm

[Joker changed Sumire Yoshizawa’s nickname to Violet] - 5:02pm

Joker: Status Update: We have succeeded in stealing back the Desires from Ango Natsume’s jail. Now we must wait to see the effects of defeating Natsume’s shadow on Natsume himself. We have a few days of downtime before we leave for Sapporo on the morning of August 7th to meet with Inspector Hasegawa.

Joker: Does anyone have anything else to add?

Panther: Nope! Well said Joker!

Skull: :D all good here

Oracle: All good.

Queen: Nothing else comes to mind.

Noir: Great job team :)

Skull: u already said that haru

Noir: And I’m saying it again :)

Skull: DON’T LOOK AT ME LIKE THAT UR SCARY

Noir: :)

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

04/08/2017 - 5:05pm

[99+ unread messages]

ForRealFriends: r we just gonna ignore that akechi said he doesn’t get memes???

Yes.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

04/08/2017 - 5:43pm

Incoming Video Call - 5:43pm

Call Declined by Goro Akechi

Incoming Video Call - 5:44pm

Call Declined by Goro Akechi

Email: [email protected]

ANSWER ME - unread
[email protected] - 04/08/2017 5:45pm

Subject: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:45pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

answer ur phone u nerd and ik sumi is with u don’t think i wont make her do it for u

______

Subject: RE: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:46pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Then call her.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

04/08/2017 - 5:46pm

Incoming Video Call - 5:46pm

Call Declined by Goro Akechi

Email: [email protected]

RE: RE: ANSWER ME - unread
[email protected] - 04/08/2017 5:47pm

Subject: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:47pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

No

shes not answering anyway

u dont think i tried that first lol?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:48pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Well that’s too bad, isn’t it.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:48pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

ANSWER UR PHONE

Look i’m at the camper by myself rn. no one else is around since they all went off to do idk what so u dont have to worry about them finding out

im not an idiot (like u)

theyll never know

its kinda important

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 5:52pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Fine.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

04/08/2017 - 5:52pm

Incoming Video Call - 5:52pm

Call Ended: Duration - 37min12sec

Email: [email protected]

RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: ANSWER ME - sent
[email protected] - 04/08/2017 6:34pm

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: ANSWER ME - 04/08/2017 6:34pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Send me all the information you have and I’ll look into it.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

Email: [email protected]

Information - unread
[email protected] - 04/08/2017 6:55pm

Subject: Information - 04/08/2017 6:55pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Here are the two names I want you to research:

Kuon Ichinose - an AI researcher at Tohou University

Zenkichi Hasegawa - PubSec Inspector from the Kyoto Prefecture

Ren made deals with both of them. Seems fine so far, but you know the kinds of people he makes deals with sometimes… not to like, offend him or anything but he DID get all our metaverse gear from an ex-Yakuza. He also told me that he got deals from that back alley doctor in Yongen-Jaya by doing (UNAPPROVED!!!) clinical trials on her medicine. So. It’s worth some investigation imo.

You’re super helping me out here Akechi. I’d do it myself but I’m in and out of the metaverse and pretty much glued to Ren’s side because of the camper, there’s too high a risk he’d find out. 

I can do what I want, but he’d still be upset if he knew that I was going behind his back. I’m doing it out of concern, keeping us safe and all that. You know what he’s like - he meets someone and makes a judgement about their character and whether we can trust them or not. He’s usually right, too, but… especially after everything with the police last year we can’t be TOO safe. Authority has never been kind to us (Ren especially), and these deals don’t make that risk go away :/

I’m hoping for all this to be a false alarm.

Anyway lol the police never actually removed your access to the TMPD db after you disappeared (convenient, huh? Some idiot in charge probably forgot to take you off the payroll too), so I just upped your clearance to godmode and removed the audit trail function on ur account. I’ll keep an eye out for ppl monitoring your account anyway tho, just in case. SUPER IMPORTANT WARNING: DO NOT WRITE ANY DATA or they will see u doing it since it would be majorly sus for me to take audit trails off the db tables and stuff.

You can access the db client using this link to get at whatever you need. If you want/need access to anything else just lmk and I’ll see what I can do.

I ordered you a decently beefy laptop, too, since I’m p sure u don’t have one rn (since you’re sending all these with your phone HAHA NERD ALERT NERD ALERT). It’ll show up to your room (west wing, room 643, I’m a stalker I know blah blah) sometime tomorrow morning. Email me when u get it and I can remote in to set up all the security and secret fancy access and shit.

______

Subject: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 7:48pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

How does using my phone to send emails make me a nerd?

______

Subject: RE: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 7:56pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

THATS all u have to say? I wrote you an ESSAY!

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 8:05pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

No, it’s not, I’m simply taking my time to process the content.

Thank you for this. I’ll let you know promptly what I find.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 8:06pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I was right about the laptop, huh

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 8:08pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

No comment.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Information - 04/08/2017 8:08pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Thought so >:D

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

05/08/2017 - 12:13am

Outgoing Video Call - 12:13am

Missed Call: Duration - 0min0sec

That was an accident. My apologies.

05/08/2017 - 9:06am

Amamiya: Good morning Akechi!!

Amamiya: No worries btw.  I must have been pretty tired last night since I didn’t even hear my phone go off.

I’m glad the noise didn’t bother you, in that case.

Amamiya: How are you doing? 

Amamiya: Things have been so busy, PT this PT that, that I never asked you about yourself...

I’m fine.

Amamiya: Yes, but like. Tell me about your day?

It’s 9am. Nothing has happened yet.

Amamiya: Come on, don’t be difficult. 

Amamiya: What about yesterday, then?

What is your group doing today?

Amamiya: We’ve got some free time finally. I’ll probably do some shopping to prep for the drive to Sapporo, though. Just groceries and stuff, nothing exciting.

Amamiya: And don’t think I didn’t see you dodge that question.

Amamiya: You’re not even trying to hide it anymore, Detective. It’s like you WANT me to catch you ;)

I have no interest in telling you about my day.

You’re better than those types of banal pleasantries, Amamiya.

Unless, of course, you’ve lost your edge over the last 6 months.

If you have something real to say to me, then spit it out. If not, then I’d appreciate not being made into a spectacle.

Amamiya: I genuinely just want to know what’s going on in your life, okay?

Amamiya: I haven’t seen you since January pretty much, and you’ve given me NOTHING to work with here!

Amamiya: Why is that so hard for you to understand?

Frankly, it’s none of your business what is going on in my life.

You are acting insufferably nosy and entitled.

Amamiya: Okay. 

Amamiya: Alright.

Amamiya: Fine.

Amamiya: If that’s how you really feel, then I’ll back off.

Amamiya: Check the PT chat if you want updates.

[Contact Ren Amamiya has blocked you] - 9:34am

Seriously, Joker? [Message Not Received]

You’re being childish. [Message Not Received]

This is ridiculous. [Message Not Received]

Email: [email protected]

Computer - sent
[email protected] - 05/08/2017 10:55am

Subject: Computer - 05/08/2017 10:55
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

The computer has arrived. What would you like me to do?

How much do I owe you for it?

______

Subject: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 10:56am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Oooooooh!!!! OK click this link and it will let me access ur desktop. You’ll then need to escalate the permissions while i’m logged in but I’ll walk u through that part once I’m in and can see what i’m doing. Just pay attention to what I say in the chat thing that pops up

I don’t want your money you loser. Consider it payment for your detective services.

______

Subject: RE: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 11:07am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Futaba, this is a brand new computer, and not an inexpensive one either. How much do I owe you for it?

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 11:08am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Ur gonna pay me back in other ways, don’t u worry abt that

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 11:09am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

God that’s cryptic.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 11:09am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Just click the link you dummy

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Computer - 05/08/2017 11:10am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Done.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

05/08/2017 - 2:14pm

Ren. [Message Not Received]

You’re fucking kidding me. [Message Not Received]

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

05/08/2017 - 2:32pm

Hello Ryuji. I hope you are enjoying your free time in Sendai.

Sakamoto: o hey akechi

Sakamoto: yueah its pretty cool so far theres a ton of epic places to eat here! 

Sakamoto: Rens started copying the recipes and they are TO DIE FOR

Sakamoto: he made a bunch of food this morning, saved like 10 containers as leftovers for the road prolly

Sakamoto: he made this gyutan stew that tasted like heaven

He’s quite the talented chef.

Sakura-san would be proud.

Sakamoto: o yeah i bet he will be when we all get back

Sakamoto: i dunno what im gonna do when he goes back to inaba

Sakamoto: starve i guess

I’m sure he’d share the recipes with you.

Sakamoto: nah it’s not the same

Speaking of Ren…

Could you tell him to unblock me?

Sakamoto: :0

Sakamoto: wtf HE BLOCKED U????

He did.

Sakamoto: OOOOOOOOOOOH BUDDY YOU REEEEALLY PISSED HIM OFF

Sakamoto: wat the hell did u say?!?!?!!!!!!!!

Sakamoto: it musta been REAL bad for him to block u

Sakamoto: he like

Sakamoto: neevr does that

Sakamoto: especially noty to u

Could you just tell him to unblock me?

Sakamoto: y r u 2 fighting so much anyway???

Sakamoto: i thot u were like

Sakamoto: u no

I assure you, I don’t have the faintest clue what you mean by that.

Sakamoto: like

Sakamoto: u need to just suck face or smth and get it out of ur system

We do not.

Need to do that.

Sakamoto: yea but have u seen the 2 of u????

Sakamoto: the entire time we were in maruki’s palace u were like

Sakamoto: checking each other out

Sakamoto: flirting an stuff

Sakamoto: like, right in front of the rest of us too

Sakamoto: it was kinda gross to watch ngl

Have you ever heard of "sizing up your enemy"?

Sakamoto: yeah and that was NOT it

I believe you may need glasses.

Sakamoto: 20/20 vision baybey ;D

Ugh.

Back to my point.

Joker has blocked me because I said some things that upset him, and I would like to make amends.

Which I cannot currently do.

As I am blocked.

By him.

Sakamoto: i get it i get it

Sakamoto: dont worry i gotchu bro

Sakamoto: gimme some time to talk to him about it and see how he’s doing

Sakamoto: the rest of it isn’t rly any of my business,,

I appreciate it.

Sakamoto: np

Sakamoto: i h8 seein u guys fite all the time

Sakamoto: i hope u figure ur shit out or whatever

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

05/08/2017 - 8:48pm

[Contact Ren Amamiya has unblocked you]

Joker.

I propose we play a game.

Amamiya: What game?

The rules go like this:

Once per day, we are each allowed to ask the other a question, which must be answered truthfully.

If one of us does not want to answer the question, we may pass, but we will earn a ‘strike’ for doing so.

At the end of your vacation, whomever has fewer strikes against them is the winner.

Amamiya: If one of us passes a question, does the other person get to ask something different as their question for the day?

No. One question only.

Amamiya: Ok

Amamiya: That seems relatively fair

It does, doesn’t it.

Are you in?

Amamiya: Can I go first?

Yes.

Amamiya: Then yes.

Amamiya: I need to think about my question, and I’m tired.

Amamiya: The game starts tomorrow.

Alright.

May the better player win.

Amamiya: You’re on, Goro.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

06/08/2017 - 9:58am

Amamiya: Morning, Goro :)

Good morning, Joker.

Amamiya: I’d like to use my question now, if that’s alright with you.

Go ahead.

Amamiya: Great!

Amamiya: What are you doing right now?

Is that seriously all you could come up with?

Your one question for the day is a mundane throwaway pleasantry?

Amamiya: No, I’m asking on purpose.

Clearly.

I can’t imagine you typed that out by mistake.

Amamiya: Just answer the question, Crow.

Amamiya: Or are you really just going to let me take the lead on the first round.

Amamiya: Seems cowardly, especially since this game was your suggestion… but okay.

You’re absolutely insufferable, you realize that?

Amamiya: Yes. Now, your answer, if you please. 

Amamiya: Unless you are conceding.

I will never concede to you.

My answer is: nothing.

Amamiya: That’s not a real answer, Goro.

Isn’t it?

Amamiya: So you’re not doing ANYTHING right now?

Amamiya: Not thinking about anything? Not looking at anything? Not fiddling with anything?

Amamiya: Not even breathing???

You are the most annoying person I have ever had the misfortune of conversing with.

Amamiya: Thanks! Now give me your REAL answer.

FINE.

I’m texting you while I wait for an appointment. That’s all.

Happy now?

Amamiya: Yes. Thank you for answering properly.

Amamiya: See, that wasn’t so hard, was it?

Don’t patronize me, Joker.

Email: [email protected]

Findings Part 1 - sent
[email protected] - 06/08/2017 1:11pm

Subject: Findings Part 1 - 06/08/2017 1:11pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I’ve done some digging into the two individuals you mentioned.

Zenkichi Hasegawa, as you mentioned, is a PubSec investigator based out of Kyoto, on loan to the TMPD. He moved to Kyoto two years ago with his daughter after the death of his wife. My initial concern is a potential connection to Shido, but where he’d left the area during Shido’s rise to power, it is unlikely that he would have been connected in any significant capacity. Shido’s connections were vast and varied, but mainly centered on Tokyo itself and not the surrounding prefectures. That being said, a connection is not impossible.

I’ve read through his case history, and there is one suspicious case against the secretary of Chief Cabinet Secretary Jyun Owada relating to his wife’s death. I know for a fact that Jyun Owada was connected to Shido, and some of the case details are internally inconsistent. This would have been in the early stages of Shido’s regime.

He reports to Commissioner Miyako Kaburagi. I’ve yet to find anything useful on her, which either means there is nothing suspicious, or she’s done a thorough job concealing any incriminating details. It could yet go either way.

I’m not sure what to make of this quite yet. Stay vigilant, and do not let your guards down under any circumstances. Characters like Hasegawa are trained to earn your trust, and bite you the moment your back is turned. I would know. Even if he seems reliable or nonthreatening, do not trust him.

______

Findings Part 2 - sent
[email protected] - 06/08/2017 3:46pm

Subject: Findings Part 2 - 06/08/2017 3:46pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Kuon Ichinose is another story altogether. She was orphaned at a young age with no other family to note, but has earned many accreditations from various academic institutions, including Tohou University where she is currently employed. None of this is suspicious on its own, but that’s not all:

Ichinose built the EMMA prototype, and sold it to Madicce.

If EMMA is the source of these ‘jails’ and the creation of ‘monarchs’, then there is a good chance that someone responsible for the programming of EMMA has knowledge of the metaverse. Whether this integration was added before or after Madicce took ownership of the Application will be the key to determining the party responsible for this mess, if it’s not both of them.

Tread carefully. I’ll keep digging.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

06/08/2017 - 3:48pm

Yoshizawa: Last practice is out!! That was a long one, I’m exhausted! I’ll head back to the hotel now and let you know when I’m on my way.

Hi Sumire-chan

I’m glad you made it through another successful practice. I imagine you must be quite tired after this week.

Yoshizawa: Yes, I am, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I can be proud of myself knowing that I put in my best effort! :)

Yes, I agree.

I’m sure your sister would have been proud of you as well.

Yoshizawa: Thanks Goro. That means a lot.

You’re welcome.

You don’t have to visit tonight if you are too tired. Please take care of yourself first.

Yoshizawa: Oh I’m fine!! Don’t worry about that!!

Yoshizawa: I’ll be a bit busy for the next few days for the actual meet itself and won’t be able to come by, so I don’t want to miss out on tonight.

That’s even more reason to rest, you realize, right?

Yoshizawa: Shush. ;P

Yoshizawa: How was your session today?

It was fine. Apparently I’m making progress.

Yoshizawa: Oh! That’s great news!!!

I disagree.

It’s more frustrating than it is anything else.

And humiliating.

Yoshizawa: Aww Goro don’t say that!! You’re trying so hard!! Surely that’s worth something?

That’s the point, isn’t it? It doesn’t seem to matter how hard I’m trying.

I’m useless.

Yoshizawa: You’re not useless.

Yoshizawa: You can’t expect to go from 0 to 100 overnight. These things take time and patience.

Everyone keeps saying that

but

it doesn’t change the fact that one day i was perfectly fine, and then what feels like the next i couldn’t do anything for myself

*can’t

Yoshizawa: I’m sorry. You’re right, that sounds beyond frustrating.

it is

and the doctors say that this is normal, and that I’m recovering fine

but you and i both know that i might never fully recover

not back to how i was, anyway

i didn’t ask for this

i didn’t want any of this

what’s even the point???

everything would be better if i had just died

or stayed dead

whatever it takes so im not here doing this shit every day

Yoshizawa: Goro Akechi

Yoshizawa: How dare you talk about yourself like that

im being realistic

Yoshizawa: No, you are absolutely not. Stop.

Yoshizawa: Do you have any idea how awful your disappearance was? What it was like to think that you had died??

Yoshizawa: Everything ‘Phantom Thieves’ aside, you are my friend.

Yoshizawa: You are so important to me. To all of us.

you’re better off without me

Yoshizawa: Goro no

Yoshizawa: Is that really what you think?

yes

Yoshizawa: You’re wrong.

Yoshizawa: Look, I’m on my way now. 

Yoshizawa: I’ll see you soon. Let’s talk through this together, okay?

06/08/2017 - 6:22pm

Yoshizawa: I’m back at the hotel

Yoshizawa: Are you still okay?

I’m trying very hard to be.

Yoshizawa: I know.

Yoshizawa: That’s the most anyone could ask.

Yoshizawa: You’re not alone, okay? Even once I’ve left Osaka, I’m only a phone call away. Plus, Tokyo’s not so far that I can’t take the train down on the weekends, either.

Yoshizawa: You have friends that care about you. Not just me. Don’t forget that, alright? We are here for you.

I will keep that in mind.

Yoshizawa: Good :)

Yoshizawa: Love you, Goro. You’re going to be just fine. Pinky promise :)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

06/08/2017 - 9:02pm

My turn to ask you a question.

Amamiya: Alright. I’m ready.

Amamiya: Hit me with it.

Why did you leave Tokyo?

Amamiya: Oh? That’s it?

Is there something wrong with that question?

Amamiya: No, not at all. It just wasn’t what I was expecting.

Amamiya: I’m sure you already know from reading my case files last year, but Inaba is my hometown. My probation ended in March, and my assault charge was overturned after testifying against Shido, so I went back.

No, I understand that much already. I am asking for the reason behind your decision.

Your parents threw you away on false accusations like you were nothing.

And your friends are in Tokyo.

I want to know why you would go back to people who obviously didn’t value you you enough to stand by you when you needed them.

Amamiya: It’s not that simple, Akechi.

Amamiya: My parents didn’t just “throw me away”. They were doing what they thought was best at the time.

Best for who? You? Or Them?

Amamiya: Does it matter? It doesn’t change what happened.

It matters very much.

Amamiya: Maybe you’re right, maybe you’re not. Either way, it won’t help anyone for me to stew on it now.

Amamiya: Besides, it’s not like I had a choice to stay. Even if I wanted to. Sojiro was only my legal guardian during probation, so as soon as that was over, he had no sway anymore.

Amamiya: I’m still only 17. My parents have legal guardianship, and they wanted me to be back in Inaba. It’s as simple as that.

Amamiya: There’s no ulterior motive or hidden reason, honest.

Did you?

Want to stay in Tokyo, I mean.

Amamiya: Of course I did.

In that case, I’m sorry that you weren’t given the choice.

Amamiya: It is what it is.

Amamiya: Maybe it’s for the best. 

Amamiya: Everyone is busy doing their own things anyway. It would have been different this year even if I had stayed. Ann is travelling, Ryuji transferred away for track, Mako and Haru both graduated. Yusuke is focusing on his art scholarship. Even Futaba and Sumi are all doing their own things.

Amamiya: It would have just been me and Mona either way. So. It doesn’t really matter.

You truly think that?

Amamiya: Haven’t you questioned me enough already? :P

Amamiya: I even gave you a bonus honest answer.

Amamiya: You should be grateful!!! 

Amamiya: Bask in my generosity, peasant! >:D

Fair enough.

Thank you for answering.

Amamiya: Of course.

Amamiya: You too, earlier.

You should pick a better question for tomorrow.

Amamiya: D:

Amamiya: I thought I asked a great question!!!

It was benign.

Trite.

Boring.

You can do better than that.

Amamiya: You talk big for someone who had such a hard time answering.

Then we both have an opportunity for improvement.

Amamiya: Thats

Amamiya: Hm

Amamiya: Okay. I’ll see what I can come up with.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

06/08/2017 - 10:58pm

Don’t waste your kindness on someone like me. I don’t deserve it. [Message Removed]

I have no idea how to respond to messages like that. [Message Removed]

You shouldn’t say things you don’t mean. [Message Removed]

Just leave me alone. I’m not worth your time. [Message Removed]

Stop pretending you aren’t just going to leave me like everyone else. No one has this much patience, so don’t lie to me. [Message Removed]

06/08/2017 - 11:37pm

Thank you, Sumire.

Email: [email protected]

RE: Findings Part 2 - unread
[email protected] - 07/08/2017 1:02am

Subject: RE: Findings Part 2 - 07/08/2017 1:02am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Well fuck

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

07/08/2017 - 4:22am

I’ll be asking my question first, today.

Why don’t you hate me?

07/08/2017 - 8:04am

Amamiya: What the fuck kind of question is that?!

It’s the one I asked you.

Amamiya: Yeah but

Amamiya: jesus i just read the timestamp on that

Amamiya: do you like…. Sleep??? Ever???

Yes, as a matter of fact, I do. I am still human.

Amamiya: yeah right.

Amamiya: god it is way too early for this conversation

Are you passing the question?

Amamiya: No, I just need a few minutes to wake up

Amamiya: Make coffee and stuff

Amamiya: Give me an hour and I’ll come back to this?

Okay.

In hindsight, it is fairly early for such a heavy topic of conversation.

Amamiya: no shit goro

Amamiya: seriously, like, did you even sleep at all?

On and off. But yes.

Amamiya: you need a mona alarm

A what?

Amamiya: a Mona alarm

Amamiya: my sleep schedule would be SOOOO fucked if it wasn’t for Mona

Amamiya: if I don’t put my phone away on time he scratches me

Amamiya: and also if i sleep in too much...

Amamiya: or get up too early

Amamiya: ...it’s like he’s the owner and i’m the pet…

Yeah, no. I’m good, but thanks.

Amamiya: ok but

Amamiya: goro

Amamiya: hear me out on this one

Amamiya: Cat snuggles :D

It doesn’t count. He’s not really a cat.

Amamiya: but he’s in the shape of a cat. And he is fluffy like one. And purrs like one.

You seem confused.

Amamiya: and u seem like an ass :p

Go make your coffee so you can answer my question.

Amamiya: okay okay fine

Amamiya: but in the meantime, look at these pictures from last night!! We went to the festival here in Sendai and it was actually pretty awesome

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: sent an image

Amamiya: sent an image

07/08/2017 - 8:23am

You all look very nice in your yukata.

It seems like you had a pleasant time.

Amamiya: We did :)

Amamiya: It was a nice celebration, especially after taking down the Sendai jail.

Right.

07/08/2017 - 9:11am

Amamiya: OKAY I AM BACK AND CAFFEINATED

Really, now. I couldn’t tell.

Amamiya: oh sorry I didn’t mean to send that in all caps

Amamiya: lol

Amamiya: okay

Amamiya: so

Amamiya: you want to know why I don’t hate you?

Yes.

We never talked about this. Not explicitly.

But you’ve made it clear enough that you don’t.

Hate me.

Why?

I more than deserve it after everything I put you through.

Amamiya: Look, Goro.

Amamiya: I forgave you for all that a long time ago.

Amamiya: I know we discussed it briefly with Lavenza, but I never got to tell you the full story of what I learned in the Velvet Room after Shido’s palace.

Amamiya: Yaldaboth chose both of us as pawns in a game. He manipulated you for literal years. He gave you the metanav, gave Shido his stupid fucking delusions, and set everything up. You didn’t have a chance, from the very beginning.

Amamiya: On top of that, Shido himself manipulated you into causing the mental shutdowns and psychotic breakdowns. 

That doesn’t matter.

I still did those things.

I was still the one who approached Shido and offered my services in the metaverse.

Amamiya: Yeah when you were what, fourteen? Fifteen??

Amamiya: When you started, did you think you would end up committing murder?

Fifteen.

And no, not in the beginning. I offered intel.

But that doesn’t MATTER

Because when the time came, and he told me to pull the trigger on a target, I still did it.

I still knowingly lured you into Sae’s palace and had you arrested, beaten and drugged within an inch of your life.

And I STILL

Put a gun to your head and shot you point blank.

You were nothing but kind to me and STILL

I did that. Not Shido. Not Yaldabaoth.

Me.

You should hate me.

Amamiya: Maybe.

Amamiya: But I don’t.

Amamiya: And there’s no argument you can put together that will make me hate you.

Amamiya: It’s just not going to happen.

I don’t understand.

Amamiya: You don’t have to.

I do, though. I need to know.

Please, Ren.

Help me understand why.

Amamiya: It's because we’re rivals.

That explains nothing.

Amamiya: You are the one person I’ve ever met who matches me. Stride for stride. You push me to be better. You challenge me, and I value that.

Amamiya: I think you’re devilishly smart and cunning and ambitious and funny, and even when I think I have you figured out, you surprise me yet again.

Amamiya: And idk…

Amamiya: I’ve always felt the most ‘myself’ when I’m with you. Like I can just BE, and I don’t have to think about what mask I’m wearing or what I’m doing or any of that.

Amamiya: And I know you’ll hate this part, but I really do care about you. A lot. Not the Detective Prince, or the Black Mask, or whatever surface level shit you try to hide behind. I like who you are underneath all that.

Amamiya: The person who makes a stink face when I beat him at chess.

Amamiya: The person who never backs down from a challenge.

Amamiya: The person who smiles into their favourite blend of coffee when they think the barista isn’t looking, and feeds the street cats outside (don’t think I didn’t see you do that multiple times you big softie)

Amamiya: The grumpy, prickly, quirky version of you when all the rest of the pretenses are gone.

Amamiya: Goro

Amamiya: I can’t say this enough. I can’t really even put it into words that are strong enough to express it but

Amamiya: I am so fucking glad that you are alive

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

07/08/2017 - 9:46am

Takamaki: Why the hell is Ren crying right now?

Takamaki: He won't say anything but I KNOW he was texting you.

Takamaki: If you said something to hurt him on purpose, I swear to god Akechi I will hunt you down and throttle you.

You would do well to mind your own damn business.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

07/08/2017 - 9:47am

Amamiya: After what happened on Shido’s ship

Amamiya: All I could think about was that I should have said something to you sooner. I should have done something different. Or if I was better or faster I could have killed that cognition before it could hurt you.

Amamiya: none of it was fair goro. You deserved so much better than what you got. Shido. Your mom. All of it. You deserved SO MUCH BETTER

Amamiya: And before you say anything, this is not pity and it's not a saviour complex either

Amamiya: I have no illusions about what you are capable of.

Amamiya: You don’t need to be saved by anyone.

Amamiya: Least of all by me.

Amamiya: You are one of the most capable fighters I have ever met. You are so strong and resilient and independent

Amamiya: I don’t know how you managed to survive so long on your own. I would have been dead within a week. Probably within an hour, if I’m being honest.

Amamiya: And then in February I had to let you go again.

Amamiya: I killed god twice and letting you go was still the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. But I respect you and so I respect your choices. I’d do it again if you asked me to.

Amamiya: But I hated every second of it. Knowing you would be gone after, and this time I was doing it on purpose.

Amamiya: Ugh fuck sorry

Amamiya: I know that was a lot to take in

Amamiya: Anyway, all that to say:

Amamiya: I want you in my life. Badly. And if that means forgiving things that other people wouldn’t, then well… I’m not like other people.

Amamiya: So I don’t hate you, because I like you far too much for that.

07/08/2017 - 10:03am

Amamiya: Goro?

Give me a moment.

Amamiya: Right. Yeah. Sorry, take your time.

07/08/2017 - 10:53am

Thank you for the honest answer.

Amamiya: Of course.

Amamiya: Are you okay? That was probably a lot to process

It was a lot.

I'm alright.

I just need some time to think about what you said.

Amamiya: I completely understand.

Amamiya: I'll give you some space, then.

Amamiya: Have a good day, Goro :)

No, wait

You don't have to go

We can just

Talk about something else for a while

Amamiya: Oh! Okay then :)

Amamiya: Anything you wanna talk about?

If I recall correctly, you are driving to Sapporo today?

Amamiya: Yep! It's a long drive but we'll have some breaks when we stop for food and stuff.

Amamiya: wbu? What are you doing today?

Not a lot, to be honest. I have an appointment later, but there's a couple hours before that.

Amamiya: well, if you need to kill some time, want to video call?

That would be nice, actually.

Amamiya: Awesome! I'll just be a minute and then I'll call you.

Alright. Talk to you soon.

Incoming Video Call - 11:06am

Video Call Ended: Duration - 1hr48min22sec

07/08/2017 - 12:54pm

You are all dorks.

Nerds.

Absolute buffoons.

Amamiya: you like it, don't deny it

I wouldn't dare :)

Amamiya: good! Have a good appointment!

07/08/2017 - 2:33pm

Amamiya: I've decided on my question for you.

07/08/2017 - 3:20pm

Is that so?

Amamiya: Yep! Are you ready?

Sure.

Amamiya: okay

Amamiya: here goes

Amamiya: If you aren't in Tokyo, then where are you?

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

07/08/2017 - 3:24pm

I really don’t want to answer that question.

Amamiya: You’re allowed to pass.

I don’t want to do that either.

Amamiya: Okay.

Amamiya: I mean, I have a lot of questions for you. I could just pick a different one?

Amamiya: But that was kinda the least intense one. I was trying to keep things light, especially after this morning…

No, it’s fine.

I’ll answer it.

Amamiya: You don’t have to.

I’m in Osaka.

Amamiya: Oh!

Amamiya: Where in Osaka? It’s not THAT far from Tokyo - once we are back from our road trip (or if we happen to pass through the area) then maybe

Amamiya: um

Amamiya: Maybe I could come see you?

Amamiya: Only if you want me to

Amamiya: I want to

Amamiya: But if you don’t, that’s okay

Don’t take this the wrong way.

Amamiya: ...okay?

I don't want you to visit me right now. I’m not ready to see you.

Amamiya: Oh.

Amamiya: Goro, I’m so sorry.

Amamiya: If I said something wrong or if i’m being too overbearing or clingy

Amamiya: I can stop

Amamiya: I’ll back off if you need me to

Amamiya: I’m sorry, I know it’s been a lot the last couple of weeks

Amamiya: I don’t want to make you uncomfortable

No.

Ren.

No.

It has nothing to do with you.

Amamiya: but

Amamiya: you don’t want to see me

Amamiya: that’s okay, like, i get it, we weren’t on the best of terms and everything

Amamiya: and then everything happened and

Enough already!!!!

Shut up for one minute and I can explain!

You didn’t do anything wrong.

And.

Ugh.

I do want to see you.

Very much, in fact.

But there are other factors that are unrelated to you that make visiting more or less unfavourable.

And I am not ready to confront those factors.

That’s it. So stop moping. It’s unbecoming of my rival.

Amamiya: What other factors?

I’ll tell you another time.

Amamiya: You have to see how concerning that sounds, right???

They are really nothing to be concerned about.

I am fine. I am safe. I will tell you if either of those things change.

You worry too much, Ren.

Amamiya: Okay.

Amamiya: I’ll ask you another time, then.

Deal.

07/08/2017 - 5:28pm

Amamiya: I’m

Amamiya: So

Amamiya: BORED

Is that so?

And you needed three whole messages to convey that idea?

Amamiya: God ur such an ass sometimes

Amamiya: Akechiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii

What do you want me to do about your boredom?

Amamiya: I don’t knowwwww

Amamiya: ooooh

Amamiya: lets play a stupid mobile game together or something

I don’t suppose you already have something in mind?

Amamiya: Idk

Amamiya: There are like, mobile versions of chess we could try?

No.

Amamiya: Wait why not

Amamiya: Don’t tell me you hate chess now or something

Not at all.

It is still one of my favourite games.

I simply could not imagine it reduced to a mere mobile game. We’d be missing the most important part of the experience.

Half of chess is reading your opponent.

Amamiya: Sure, the way you play it, it is.

The superior way, you mean.

Amamiya: yeah yeah

Amamiya: ok so no chess

Amamiya: scrabble???

That could be acceptable.

Amamiya: sent you an invitation to ScabbleOnlinePlayer

Amamiya: Ok click that and download the game and we can play

Done.

Ready to be annihilated, Joker?

Amamiya: In your dreams, Crow.

07/08/2017 - 6:08pm

Oh FUCK you!

Amamiya: Ha!!! No one can beat me at scrabble.

Amamiya: I am the scrabble KING

We shall see about that.

You just got lucky.

I demand a rematch.

Amamiya: Okay, whatever you say…

07/08/2017 - 6:33pm

AGAIN, DAMN IT.

Amamiya: ;D sure thing, sugar

07/08/2017 - 6:52pm

NO

FUCK YOU, ASSHOLE

AGAIN

Amamiya: Playing again isn’t going to magically make you better at scrabble than me.

FUCK YOU.

START ANOTHER GAME.

DO IT NOW.

07/08/2017 - 7:21pm

Amamiya: Hey, you were closer that time!!

Again.

Amamiya: Hmmmm nah…. I’m getting a bit tired of this.

No! We are playing again!

Amamiya: alright, if you insist

07/08/2017 - 7:53pm

Joker you are the worst human.

Amamiya: Nah, i think ur just a sore loser

shut up

I am not

Amamiya: Yeah? Wanna read back your last 10 messages or so?

...no

Amamiya: right exactly

Ugh

How are you so good at that stupid game

You couldn’t even help Sakura-san with his crosswords

I had to do them with him when you were off gallivanting in the metaverse

So why

Amamiya: Would you believe that I’m just lucky when pulling tiles?

No, dumbass, it’s randomized.

Unless you were cheating.

...you weren’t cheating.

You wouldn’t.

Joker.

Tell me you weren’t cheating.

Amamiya: I wasn’t cheating.

I don’t believe you.

Amamiya: And how are you gonna prove it if I was?

I’m getting Futaba.

Email: [email protected]

Nefarious Scrabble Wins - sent
[email protected] - 07/08/2017 8:11pm

Subject: Nefarious Scrabble Wins - 07/08/2017 8:11pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Futaba. Was Joker cheating at Scrabble??

Is that even something you can check??

______

Subject: RE: Nefarious Scrabble Wins - 07/08/2017 8:12pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

What’s in it for me

______

Subject: RE: RE: Nefarious Scrabble Wins - 07/08/2017 8:13pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Featherman limited edition figurine of your choosing.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Nefarious Scrabble Wins - 07/08/2017 8:13pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

OOOOOOO BUDDY IM IN

...

But also no, he wasn’t cheating

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Nefarious Scrabble Wins - 07/08/2017 8:14pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

YOU’VE GOTTA BE FUCKING KIDDING ME

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

07/08/2017 - 8:14pm

FUCK YOU JOKER

Amamiya: Futaba confirmed no cheating

Amamiya: I told you

Amamiya: I am the scrabble KING

Start another game, you criminal trash

Amamiya: yikesssss okay whatever you say there bud

07/08/2017 - 8:38pm

Amamiya: Are you done yet?

No.

Yes.

Ugh.

Play again tomorrow?

Amamiya: Sure. It’s been a long day for us both so it’s best we call it a night

Amamiya: Plus you were up at 4AM LIKE SOME SORT OF GREMLIN CREATURE

I went back to sleep after that.

Amamiya: So you woke up at 4 in the morning… just to text me that incredibly angsty question?

No.

Ok fine, yes.

Amamiya: oh my god Goro

Amamiya: that’s

Amamiya: you are so weird sometimes

Is that a bad thing?

Amamiya: no no no

Amamiya: it’s actually great

Amamiya: I like that about you

Oh.

Okay then.

Amamiya: Fuck, I’m tired now though. Night Goro, talk to you tomorrow <3

Okay.

Goodnight Ren.

<3

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

08/08/2017 - 1:01am

Hey.

Joker

08/08/2017 - 1:08am

Ren?

08/08/2017 - 1:19am

Amamiya: huh?

Amamiya: goro its the middle of the night

I know.

Amamiya: Is something wrong?

No.

It’s nothing.

Amamiya: Goro be honest

Just a dream.

You’re okay?

Amamiya: Yes I’m okay :)

Good.

I’m sorry I woke you. Go back to sleep.

Amamiya: It’s okay dw about it. night, goro :)

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

08/08/2017 - 11:18am

Amamiya: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND

Amamiya: drumroll please

Amamiya: We are in Sapporo!!!

Amamiya: FINALLY

That’s good.

How was the remainder of the drive?

Amamiya: it was fine, slept through most of it lol

Amamiya: We are headed to the bathhouse now tho so I’ll be back in a bit! 

Amamiya: Just wanted to tell you we got here safe and give you your question for the day before things get busy.

Oh, well, that’s considerate of you.

Amamiya: It’s no big deal :)

Amamiya: ANYWAY

Amamiya: Are you ready for your question?

Go ahead.

Amamiya: Why were you so upset before about me going back to the metaverse?

Amamiya: Like, I know it's dangerous, but it’s not like we haven’t done it before.

Amamiya: You and I fought side by side against bigger and scarier shit than this and it never bothered you then.

Amamiya: So why now?

Amamiya: I know its kind of a loaded question, so like, no rush to answer right away if u need some time

Alright.

I may need to reflect on my answer for you.

Would you like to know your question for today as well?

Amamiya: Sure, that makes sense, if you’ve got it ready!

Amamiya: That way we can both think on it

Here it is:

What will you do after graduating from Yasogami?

Amamiya: oh

Amamiya: honestly?

Amamiya: I don’t know

That answer is as good as a pass, Joker.

Amamiya: It’s the truth, though!

Think about it. Answer me properly later.

Amamiya: Okay.

Amamiya: I’ll talk to you later, then. :)

[Messages] Math is hard - Ren Amamiya, Ryuji Sakamoto +1 other

08/08/2017 - 2:02pm

Sakamoto: OK so i kno we got this 4 math n stuff but

Sakamoto: i was thinkin

Sakamoto: we should teach u something too man

What did you have in mind?

Sakamoto: well u said u don’t get memes, right

Sakamoto: an u prolly would have more fun in the group if u did

Sakamoto: so maybe that?

You want to teach me about… memes?

Sakamoto: yeah if u want!

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

08/08/2017 - 2:13pm

Ren, I know you’re reading the chat with Ryuji. I can see your read receipts.

How am I supposed to respond to something like this?

Amamiya: You can respond however you want.

[Messages] Math is hard - Ren Amamiya, Ryuji Sakamoto +1 other

08/08/2017 - 2:16pm

Sakamoto: like idk i just thot it might make ur life a bit easier

Sakamoto: specially with our hacker gremlin always ribbing on u for it

I… appreciate your thoughtfulness, Ryuji.

Although I am not sure how one would begin to study memes. They are not an academic subject matter.

Sakamoto: no1 said ANYTHING abt studyin them bro

Sakamoto: u dont study memes

Sakamoto: u just gotta use them u kno???

I suppose.

Sakamoto: ok so first things first u gotta know the basics

Sakamoto: theyre like

Sakamoto: UGH HOW DO U TEACH MEMES U DONT TEACH MEMES U JUST USE THEM

Sakamoto: theyre like a joke or a picture that u use a lot for a bunch of different stuff to be funny

Sakamoto: and like sometimes theyre not funny bc theyre ACTUALLY funny, but just because u use them a lot u kno?????

I have absolutely no idea what you are trying to tell me.

Sakamoto: UGH

Amamiya: oooh Ryuji you should show him Loss

Sakamoto: NO U DICK

Sakamoto: loss isnt something u just teach sum1

Sakamoto: ok we will come back to this I STG

That is likely for the best.

Email: [email protected]

Findings Part 3 - sent
[email protected] - 08/08/2017 3:28pm

Subject: Findings Part 3 - 08/08/2017 3:28pm
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I have been unsuccessful in finding any more relevant information on Zenkichi Hasegawa, Kuon Ichinose, or Miyako Kaburagi. Certainly there is information out there, but unless you want the make, model and road safety inspection dates of their respective cars, or their residential addresses, then the TMPD database is not going to be of further interest to you. You may be able to glean more through face-to-face interactions with these people (specifically Hasegawa and Ichinose. I do hope you are not in deep enough trouble to have directly crossed paths with Kaburagi), but this is as far as my access can take you.

I came across a case, however, relating to the CEO of Madicce. There is record of a fatal robbery of his childhood home, in which his father (and only parent) was killed. There is nothing suspicious to note, but, where Madicce and EMMA seem to be at the center of your issues, I thought it worth mentioning anyway.

Madicce’s quick rise to power is concerning. The news outlets and internet only show me so much, and where I was not exactly present during recent months, I do not have the lived experience to truly understand the nature of this extreme jump in popularity.

Does Madicce know that EMMA can allow access to the metaverse? Are jails and monarchs developing organically, as palaces did, or is EMMA (or something else) creating them? If the jail persists after the defeat of its monarch, does this indicate that the jail does not truly belong to them, but that they were simply using it for their own purposes?

If jails are being purposely created, then who is doing this? Is it Madicce? The monarchs themselves? Does an AI such as EMMA have the ability and agency to do this on its own? Or is there something else at play?

Is it Yaldabaoth?

I can’t answer any of these questions with the limited information we currently have.

As much as these dangerous characters (and whatever deals Ren has made with them) are exceedingly concerning, I cannot help but question the resurgence of the metaverse itself. Cognitive Pscience did not disappear, but it was my understanding that the metaverse itself collapsed upon the destruction of Maruki’s reality. How does the metaverse sustain itself without a presence at the center of Mementos? Does Mementos even still exist?

Perhaps you have insight I do not. You are, after all, the one traversing it, out of the two of us. Beyond that, I would suspect that you have the best understanding of Cognitive Pscience out of everyone involved, given your mother’s profession and your exceptional intelligence.

That is all I can think of for the moment. Please tell me what else I can do to help you. Despite what you may think, and despite the reasons or historic evidence you have to support the conclusions you may have drawn about me, I do have a vested interest in your group’s continued safety. I will do what I can to help. 

I will leave it to you to determine what form my assistance takes.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

08/08/2017 - 6:17pm

I’ve thought about your question and I believe I am ready to answer it.

Amamiya: Go for it.

At the most basic level, I was (and still am) upset about you going back into the metaverse because I am scared. I realize this does little to actually explain my perspective, so please allow me to elaborate without interruption.

Last year, even during the early stages of our proverbial game of cat-and-mouse, the metaverse was a known quantity. Tearing through shadows, the constant exhaustion, the injuries that came with fighting supernatural entities in a parallel world were commonplace to both of us. It had been routine, for me at least, for years.

I wish it were not the case, but in the beginning, I had not cared what happened down there. To you, to your friends, to the people I killed. It was just another job for me, nothing more and nothing less, just one more thing that stood in my way. So of course, it hadn’t bothered me then.

For much of last year, I was angry with you. I told you as much after our duel. I was envious of your ability to stand tall in spite of the circumstances that, were you anyone else, would have destroyed you. I resented you for having people who cared about you and flocked to you, who loved you. It wrung me inside out that you showed me that same care in return, knowing what I had to do to you in a matter of mere weeks.

You had everything I wanted but couldn’t attain, and I’ll admit that for a long time, I hated you for it. It wasn’t truly until our confrontation in Shido’s palace that I realized I had been lying to myself, and as you know, it was too late to make amends at that point, regardless of your foolish offer to join the Phantom Thieves. I was ashamed of myself, confused, and at the absolute rock bottom of the pit I had dug for myself in a desperate search for something I could never have. So I did what I thought was best, and ended things before I could fall any further.

In Maruki’s reality, you are right that we fought together against enemies that were likely far greater than those you are facing now. The difference is that we did not have a choice, in the sense that we could not walk away. Had we not thrown ourselves into the fray, we would have doomed ourselves and everyone else. Our hands were tied, yet again, by desperation. We were too busy fighting a narcissistic self-proclaimed god to worry about it, and had enough other things to be upset about.

That is all to say, I was not worried or upset about your involvement in the metaverse either previous time because I couldn’t be.

What you need to understand, Ren, is that the existence of the metaverse and my involvement with it has only brought pain, suffering, and misery to both myself, and those around me. The return of the cognitive world can and will only hold true to that.

And, as long-winded as that was, it is only the lesser half of my explanation. It is required to “set the scene”, so to speak, but only that much.

Ren, the truth is that no matter what I have said in the past, I care about you.

You were the first person to ever truly see me since my mother’s death. No matter how much effort I put into hiding, you saw through every single one of my artificial faces to the broken person underneath. You saw me, and you didn’t look away. You didn’t run.

You were my first, and for a long time, only friend. I am working on building my relationships with others now, but that still remains true.

I still don’t know what to do with that, really. But, that’s beside the point.

The fact of the matter, put simply, is that I am terrified that the metaverse will take you from me too, like it took nearly everything else. It scares me so much some nights that I can’t sleep - the idea that at any point you could walk into one of those jails and not come back out. 

I know that this is always a risk, and was still a risk before. I know, objectively, that this is no different from what you’ve triumphed against already. And please do not conflate my own insecurities on the matter with a lack of faith in your strength or abilities. If anyone is capable of accomplishing these feats, it is you.

I wish you would have chosen not to engage with it. I know you feel responsible for fixing things, but it’s not your job. You have given the world more than enough of yourself already. What more could it possibly ask from you?

But of course, you would not be yourself if you had not given this your all, as you do with everything else. I would not want that either.

It only makes it worse that I cannot be there. Not necessarily to keep you safe, because you are more than capable of doing that yourself, but rather to fight this with you.

I believe I have covered everything. I hope that is a satisfactory answer for you.

Amamiya: Oh

Amamiya: Wow

Amamiya: Give me a few minutes to read everything?

Of course, take your time.

08/08/2017 - 6:54pm

Amamiya: Goro, i

Amamiya: I don’t know what to say

That’s fine. You asked, so I answered.

We can leave it at that.

Amamiya: It doesn’t feel right not to say anything

Then tell me the answer to my question.

Honesty for honesty, after all.

Amamiya: Okay, I guess that works for now

Amamiya: I just

Amamiya: I don’t want this to just pass by without acknowledging how much that answer means to me

It’s your turn to answer the question, Amamiya.

Amamiya: that’s not what this is 

Amamiya: I was serious, Goro

Amamiya: I can tell you put a lot of thought into your answer

Amamiya: but FINE OKAY

So did you come to a considered answer for my own question?

Amamiya: Somewhat.

Amamiya: The short version is still that I don’t know what I’m going to do because I haven’t thought that far ahead yet.

Amamiya: But I can at least elaborate on what I’d LIKE to do, if that would be enough

Sure.

I can empathize as well as anyone with the uncertainties of the future.

Go on, then, Joker. Tell me what you’d like to do.

Amamiya: First, just… please understand that all of this is super frustrating to think about. Even with my record cleared, my reputation was still ruined. My relationship with my parents is as rocky as ever, and living in the same house as them is doing nothing towards mending it. It is painfully clear that there is nothing for me in Inaba anymore, but here I am anyway.

Amamiya: So I’m going to leave. That much I know for sure.

Amamiya: WHERE, though, depends on where (if) I get accepted into a university. But, to be honest, I don’t even know if I want to go to university. I have no idea what I’d even study. I like school enough, and I have decent grades, but I don't know that there's really anything I want to commit myself to yet.

Amamiya: I'm still going to write the entrance exams though. May as well keep as many doors open as possible.

Amamiya: I was thinking I could go back to Tokyo, maybe. I could be close to Sojiro and Futaba (my real family, imo). Work a bunch of odd jobs while I figure out what I want to do with my life. At least there I have connections. I could make it work.

Amamiya: it must be kinda funny to read all that

Amamiya: who knew the stoic leader of the phantom thieves of hearts was so directionless lol

I don't think your struggles are funny, Ren.

I am sorry about your parents, and your situation in Inaba.

Amamiya: Thanks Goro.

Amamiya: Yeah I guess it sucks but there's not much I can do, really. I just have to wait it out.

For what it's worth, I have full faith that you will be able to figure things out for yourself.

And even if you don't

You will still have people in your corner.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

Email: [email protected]

RE: Findings Part 3 - unread
[email protected] - 09/08/2017 12:56am

Subject: RE: Findings Part 3 - 09/08/2017 12:56am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Madicce really came out of nowhere tbh. You’re right that it’s weird. Companies don’t just become mega corporations overnight, and thats p much what happened with Madicce. It’s pretty clearly related to EMMA. Stuff like that doesn’t just HAPPEN.

We don’t have the full story yet on Zenkichi. He’s still sus, but idk. He’s also a total dork??? 

Oh yeah Mementos is poof. Gone. can’t get in. locked, shut, lost the key. Maybe it’s still there or smthg but we wouldn’t know. Like, whatever happening in these jails is totally different from what the palaces were about. It’s still cognition and stuff but like. Egg before the chicken, u know? Like with palaces the distorted cognition stuff came first and that created the palaces, but with the jails its the JAILS that come first, and then the distortions. Oh and the trauma cells are weird. It all seems super manufactured. Like someone is doing this on purpose, but idk why.

Like even if it was madicce doing it, like, WHY? To get people to use their app and make them famous???? The jails aren’t making people use the app. 

Also I’m p sure it’s not Yaldabaoth. It’s BIG dead. U weren’t there so you didn’t see it but Ren summoned this giant ass persona (from WHERE????? LIKE?????? WHAT??????) like the size of a whole skyscraper and then shot Yaldy in the head with the power of friendship. Yaldy is done for. I don’t think its them.

Idk what else we can do for now, but i might take u up on that offer for more help. I’ll let u know later. We’ve got work to do in Sapporo and idk what’s next after that yet so…. Dunno man. Thx tho

______

Subject: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 -  09/08/2017 1:37am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Inspector Zenkichi Hasegawa is suspicious and dangerous. He is very likely feigning being a “total dork”, as you’ve put it, to gain your trust. Do not give him that trust, under ANY circumstances. I do not care that he might seem nice or helpful or trustworthy. He is police, case and point.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 - 09/08/2017 1:42am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

And here i though //i was the socially awkward gremlin of the group

Go 2 bed u pleb

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 -  09/08/2017 1:46am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I’m serious, Futaba. Do not place your trust in him. He is using you.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 - 09/08/2017 1:49am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I knowwwwwwwwwwww u can stop nagging now

We don’t trust cops as a rule, dw goro a-sketchi. Im trying to bug his phone i just havent had a chance to get close enough to do it w/o him seeing

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 -  09/08/2017 1:54am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Oh. Okay.

Good.

Goodnight, Futaba.

______

Subject: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Findings Part 3 - 09/08/2017 1:55am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Gn nerd :P

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

09/08/2017 - 1:21pm

Amamiya: we are having

Amamiya: just

Amamiya: the WEIRDEST day

Should I be concerned?

Amamiya: nah not really

Amamiya: I won’t say anything about in the group chat because it’s um

Amamiya: a bit of a sensitive topic i guess

Amamiya: but our current target is the mayor, and it turns out that Haru knows her from her childhood

Amamiya: and she was super nice to us, but in like, the same breath turned around and was awful to one of her employees

Amamiya: like

Amamiya: ‘hi Haru you’re so sweet i’ve missed you so much’ *breathes* ‘why are you such an incompetent worker, if even one flower out of place you’re fired’

Amamiya: social whiplash, much?

Amamiya: I felt really bad for the worker.

Amamiya: And Haru. She’s taking it kinda hard.

That must be a lot to take in.

I trust that your intent is to remedy this situation?

Amamiya: Of course.

Amamiya: we’re going to a speech of hers tomorrow to try and get a keyword to get into her jail.

I realize I don’t need to say this, but, do be careful.

Amamiya: I’m always careful :)

I know.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

09/08/2017 - 4:49pm

Yoshizawa: Hi Goro-senpai!! Closing ceremonies just ended for our meet, so I’m all done!

That’s great. How did the meet go?

Yoshizawa: Surprisingly well, actually! I didn’t place first in any of my routines, but I know what I have to work on. It was a close competition and the other gymnasts had beautiful routines. I missed one throw, which cost me first place in ribbon.

Yoshizawa: I am still proud of myself, though! I may not have won, but I tried my hardest.

As you should be. You worked very hard to get where you are, and I am sure that you have further yet to go.

Yoshizawa: Thanks Goro :)

Yoshizawa: How are you doing?

I’ve been fine. Keeping as busy as I can.

Yoshizawa: That’s good :)

Yoshizawa: And your game with Ren-senpai? How’s that? ;)

Exhausting.

But, it is equally as insightful.

Neither of us have passed a question yet.

Speaking of which, I need to ask mine for the day.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

09/08/2017 - 4:53pm

Your question today is:

How would you feel about someone close to you keeping a secret from you, specifically?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

09/08/2017 - 4:54pm

Yoshizawa: You’d better get on that, then!

Yoshizawa: I’m not placing bets on either of you, but, it’s nice to see you getting along again.

I agree.

Things have been… smoother since we started being honest.

Joker insists that I’m the one who cannot resist a competition, but he is just as bad as I am.

Yoshizawa: You are both notorious for it :P

Yoshizawa: It’s very entertaining.

Yoshizawa: At least, when you’re not at each other's throats over it.

You would have hated the aftermath of our scrabble competition, then.

We played online scrabble, and he won all six games.

Yoshizawa: Oh no.

Yoshizawa: That sounds disastrous.

It was absolutely humiliating.

He claims to be the “scrabble king”.

It’s obnoxious.

Yoshizawa: That’s cute though! Don’t you think?

No.

Joker isn’t cute.

He’s a menace.

Yoshizawa: Are you sure? :)

UGH.

Yes.

So anyway.

Would you like to play scrabble with me?

I need to get some more practice.

I am going to crush him into the dirt.

Yoshizawa: Um??? Sure???

Yoshizawa: Please don’t actually crush him into the dirt?

I meant it figuratively.

I will not physically crush him.

I simply aim to destroy his overinflated ego.

Yoshizawa: Oh my goodness. You two sure are something.

Click this link and I’ll start the match.

You sent an invitation to ScabbleOnlinePlayer.

Ready?

Yoshizawa: Ready :)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

09/08/2017 - 5:13pm

Amamiya: I guess it depends on who they are and what the intent is.

Amamiya: If the intent is harmless (like they are embarrassed about something, idk) like, I guess I would be a bit sad that they didn’t feel safe enough to be honest with me.

Amamiya: But like it wouldn’t be that big a deal. My friends don’t have to tell me things they don’t want to. It’s kinda up to them, and I respect that.

Amamiya: I think the difference would be if it was malicious in intent.

Amamiya: like someone is keeping a secret/lying to me specifically to hurt me or someone I care about.

Amamiya: (and before you say anything about the stuff between us last year, i am EXPLICITLY not referring to any of that stuff. That’s in the past, done and over, and we are moving on.)

Amamiya: (all that stuff was an exception. For a different conversation or answer)

Amamiya: (you get the point)

Amamiya: If someone did that purposely to hurt me… I don’t think that person is a friend anymore. That’s the kind of thing that breaks down any trust that was there in the first place.

Amamiya: idk.

Amamiya: that’s a really tough question.

Amamiya: and kind of a weird one too?? No offense

Amamiya: which I guess prompts my question for you:

Amamiya: Why did you ask me that question?

09/08/2017 - 5:32pm

Amamiya: Goroooo???

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

09/08/2017 - 5:36pm

Yoshizawa: Ooh yay, I won!!!

This is ridiculous.

Yoshizawa: Oh, sorry, right.

Yoshizawa: Do you want to play another round?

No.

I am going to research scrabble techniques.

Perhaps we could play again in a few days.

Yoshizawa: Sure, Goro :)

Yoshizawa: Oh! I should mention: tomorrow is my last day in Osaka! I have the full day free as well. Would it be alright if I came to visit?

Of course. You are always welcome.

But, please do not feel like you must.

You should enjoy your time travelling, not spend it babysitting me.

Yoshizawa: Hey! I enjoy visiting you!

Yoshizawa: And I was thinking…

Yoshizawa: Are you allowed to leave the hospital grounds?

I am not sure, actually. I haven’t had the occasion to ask.

Yoshizawa: Perhaps we could go somewhere together? There are some gardens nearby. I don’t imagine you get to go outside much on your own, so I think it could be good for you. :)

That

Sounds really nice, actually

Yoshizawa: We can sort out the details once I am there, tomorrow. I can also ask the nurses about the logistics, don’t worry.

As much as I hate to say it, but if we did leave, I would need help getting around. I’m working on building my strength, but I’m not yet able to move around on my own.

I would hate to place that burden on you.

Yoshizawa: Oh Goro… don’t worry about that, okay?

Yoshizawa: You’re not a burden.

Yoshizawa: Besides, I’m plenty strong, you know! ;D

Oh, I wouldn’t doubt that.

We can try.

Yoshizawa: It sounds like a plan! :)

Yoshizawa: Anyway, my family is going out for supper now, so I've got to go. Take care!!

You as well. Enjoy your supper.

And thank you, Sumire.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

09/08/2017 - 6:23pm

My apologies, I was occupied.

Amamiya: No worries :)

Your response was interesting.

Good to know.

Amamiya: And yours?

Give me a moment.

Amamiya: Sure thing

09/08/2017 - 7:48pm

To be frank, I am debating whether or not to pass on this question.

Amamiya: Oh.

Amamiya: Really???

Amamiya: Goro, if you’re thinking of passing because you’re worried I’ll be upset with you, I promise I won’t be.

You infuriate me.

Amamiya: I already know you’re keeping secrets. And that’s okay.

Amamiya: If you asked because of that, I’m telling you right now that it doesn’t matter what your secret is, I’m not upset with you.

It’s hypocritical of you to say that without knowing what the secret is.

And annoying of you to put words in my mouth.

I’ll answer your question: yes, I asked because I am still keeping secrets from you. But, if you re-read my question, I specified that the secrets are being kept from YOU, in specific.

Meaning, logically, that I have disclosed these secrets to other people who are close to you.

What have you to say to that, then, Joker?

Amamiya: Well…

Amamiya: Honestly?

Amamiya: I think you’re making a bigger deal out of this than you should be.

Amamiya: If it’s one (or more, i guess???) of the other thieves that you told, then i’m not worried, because if it was a danger to you or to someone else then they would have said something.

Amamiya: Even if they promised to keep it a secret. 

Amamiya: We don’t leave each other to struggle alone. We just don’t.

Amamiya: so, i dunno. I guess that if you told them and they haven’t said anything, that kinda makes me feel relieved?

Amamiya: Because it means that whatever is going on, you’re okay

You are so absolutely backwards in your thinking.

You’re telling me

That

You’re not even the slightest bit upset that I confided in your friends, but not in you?

You don’t feel betrayed by that?

Amamiya: Well, like I said, i’m a bit sad that you didn’t want to trust me

Amamiya: but only a bit

Amamiya: plus, if you wanted to tell me, you would have. And we have our question game.

Amamiya: you don’t owe me anything goro. I just want you to be happy

Amamiya: do what you need to do

Amamiya: and for the record

Amamiya: i’m glad that you are comfortable enough with whoever it is to share things with them

Amamiya: if anything, i’m happy for you

You’re ridiculous.

I don’t want to talk about this anymore.

Amamiya: That’s okay

Amamiya: Anyway thanks for answering.

… you as well.

10/08/2017 - 10:34am

Amamiya: Going into the jail now. Wish us luck!

Good luck, Joker.

Not that you need it.

Amamiya: ;D

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

10/08/2017 - 11:03am

Yoshizawa: On my way!!! See you soon :)

Good morning, Sumire-chan.

See you soon.

:)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

10/08/2017 - 5:04pm

Amamiya: OK SO

Amamiya: IT TURNS OUT

Amamiya: YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO PREPARED FOR THE WEATHER

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

10/08/2017 - 6:08pm

[99+ Unread Messages]

ForRealFriends: Hee-ho!

Cougar: Hee-ho!!!

All Hail Alibaba: Hee-ho!!!

BootyThief: Hee-Ho! :)

A Eye: Hee-Ho!!!

Pæntor: A glorious Hee-ho!

Jonker: Hee-ho, indeed!

Mom: …

Mom: Hee-ho

Human Pretzel: Hee-ho?

All Hail Alibaba: Hee-Ho!

What in the world are you all on about now?

Jonker: Hee-ho ;)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

10/08/2017 - 6:16pm

I didn’t hear of any strange weather reports today. Would you care to explain?

Amamiya: THE JAIL

Amamiya: HAD A BLIZZARD

Are you flaunting your preparedness, or are you bemoaning your misfortune?

Amamiya: The second one.

Amamiya: We froze our asses off out there

Amamiya: We had an…. Encounter.

That is an odd way of phrasing it.

Amamiya: I have never seen so many Jack Frosts in one place at the same time

I can’t imagine any number of mere Jack Frosts, no matter how large, could give you trouble at this point.

Amamiya: You’d be surprised. There were like, hundreds. Luckily they didn’t see us.

I’ve seen you decimate hoards of high-tier shadows single handedly with Yoshitsune and not even break a sweat. Don’t tell me you got jumped by a few measly Jack Frosts. I won’t believe you.

Amamiya: OH RIGHT I NEVER TOLD YOU

Amamiya: I had to start my collection of personas from SCRATCH

Amamiya: When we entered in Shibuya, all I had with me was Arsene and like, my basic dagger from way back when I first awakened last year

You are correct that you absolutely did not tell me that very crucial detail about your situation.

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

10/08/2017 - 6:22pm

[99+ Unread Messages]

[ForRealFriends changed Futaba Sakura’s nickname to Hee Ho #1] - 6:22pm

[ForRealFriends changed Ryuji Sakamoto’s nickname to Hee Ho #2] - 6:22pm

[Hee Ho #2 changed Ann Takamaki’s nickname to Hee Ho #3] - 6:22pm

[Hee Ho #2 changed Ren Amamiya’s nickname to Hee Ho #4] - 6:22pm

Hee Ho #4: Hey why am I not #1? I’m your LEADER

Hee Ho #4: this is a BETRAYAL

Hee Ho #1: stfu nerd i’m the best and y’all can suck it

Hee Ho #4: :C

[Hee Ho #2 changed Yusuke Kitagawa’s nickname to Hee Ho #5] - 6:23pm

[Hee Ho #2 changed Makoto Niijima’s nickname to Hee Ho #6] - 6:23pm

[Hee Ho #2 changed Haru Okumura’s nickname to Hee Ho #7] - 6:23pm

[Hee Ho #2 changed Sophia’s nickname to Hee Ho #8] - 6:23pm

Hee Ho #8: Is there a pattern associated with the assigned numbers, Ryuji?

Hee Ho #2: Nah shorty, it’s just as I get to em

Hee Ho #8: Oh, okay then!

[Hee Ho #2 changed Goro Akechi’s nickname to Hee Ho #9] - 6:24pm

And why am I being brought into this?

Hee Ho #2: Because I said so :D

[Hee Ho #2 changed Sumire Yoshizawa’s nickname to Hee Ho #10] - 6:24pm

This is obnoxious and confusing, you do realize?

Hee Ho #7: I think it’s cute!

Hee Ho #3: Me too!!

Hee Ho #1: ew gross

Hee Ho #4: what??

Hee Ho #1: for once i think I actually agree with akechi on something

Hee Ho #5: That is false. You have agreed with Akechi-kun on many occasions. I can recall at least five distinct times this week that you have mentioned him being right about something.

Hee Ho #1: SHUT UP INARI

[Hee Ho #1 removed Hee Ho #5 from the chat] - 6:25pm

Hee Ho #1: Inari doesn’t know what he’s talking about

Hee Ho #1: He breathed in too many paint fumes and got confused.

I see.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

10/08/2017 - 6:27pm

So you mean to say that you are effectively starting from scratch, with none of the skills you built last year.

And that not only are you going in blind, but without any of your personas.

Amamiya: Yeah. It actually really sucks. I have elemental weaknesses again.

Unbelievable.

I take back anything positive I ever said about your intelligence.

You are bafflingly stupid.

Amamiya: I mean like, I managed to get some of them back again now, so it’s not just Arsene. Like, I can cover most affinities, and we have decent buffs and healing from the rest of the team. I’m primary DPS as usual.

Amamiya: But like, even so...

Amamiya: Do you have any idea how many LITERAL DAYS I spent in the velvet room last year fusing those away with drain or repel passive skills??

Amamiya: tbh i feel like i’ve been robbed

You appear to have severely misunderstood the basis for my objection.

Amamiya: No, no I get it, don’t worry.

Amamiya: You don’t need to say it. It’s not ideal, believe me, I’m the one taking the hits here...

Aamiya: But it is what it is. We can’t turn back now, so the most I can do is just build my masks up as best as I can. 

Amamiya: I’m not even doing too bad, If I do say so. I’ve got Principality for healing, Mitra, Kaiwan, and even Eligor for fire damage (which will be useful because this whole jail is based on some sort of ice age???).  Plus I’m working on building up to Legion to get psy coverage too. AND they all have skills for buffs.

Fine. Your arsenal is nowhere near the caliber of Yoshitsune and Raoul, but I can admit that you are perhaps not as destitute as I had originally thought.

Amamiya: F in the chat for Yoshitsune :’(

Amamiya: But anyway, yes, exactly! And with everyone’s skill sets, the only affinity I don’t really have covered is curse at the moment.

Amamiya: Now that I think about it, we could’ve really used you and Hereward (or Loki) to balance us out.

10/08/2017 - 7:02pm

Amamiya: Goro? Are you still there?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

10/08/2017 - 7:13pm

Yoshizawa: Hey Goro-senpai, thanks for letting me visit today. I’m really glad we could see each other again before I leave Osaka.

Yoshizawa: Here are some of the pictures I took while we were out today! :)

Yoshizawa: sent 18 images

Yoshizawa: I loved the camellias especially. They are so soft and beautiful, especially with all the red, white and yellow ones mixed together. 

Yoshizawa: Which were your favourites?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

10/08/2017 - 9:35pm

Amamiya: Hey, I just realized we didn’t ask any questions today.

Amamiya: Do you want to ask them now?

10/08/2017 - 10:27pm

Amamiya: Goro?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

10/08/2017 - 10:43pm

I liked the spider lilies.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

10/08/2017 - 11:32pm

Amamiya: You don’t have to answer but just in case, your question for the day is:

Don’t bother.

Amamiya: You didn’t even get to hear what the question was.

Leave me alone.

Amamiya: Hey, is something wrong?

Amamiya: We don’t have to do questions today if you don’t want to

The point of our asking each other questions was to come to a mutual understanding.

If your intention is to take this privileged knowledge and throw it back in my face as some sick, twisted joke, then I want no part of it.

Amamiya: Goro, what the hell are you talking about?

11/08/2017 - 12:22am

Amamiya: Oh fuck

Amamiya: I just reread our messages

Amamiya: Wow I am such an ass

Agreed.

Amamiya: Everything about this message is fucked up and awful and I am so so sorry

> Now that I think about it, we could’ve really used you and Hereward (or Loki) to balance us out.

Amamiya: I KNOW we talked about this and i KNOW you would be here if you could be, and the fact that youre not here only means that whatever going on with you is serious and i didn’t at all mean to imply that its your fault or anything or that you dont want to be here

Amamiya: i wasn’t thinking when i said it

Amamiya: it’s been a long day and i was super tired and i know thats no excuse but i swear i didn’t mean it like you thought i did

Oh, you were very clear with your meaning. Don’t worry about that, Joker.

Amamiya: okay thats good then

You are painfully transparent.

Amamiya: wait

11/08/2017 - 12:28am

Clearly, you have no respect for the effort and pain it took to share the information with you that I have. You would rather use me, like everyone else has, the moment it becomes convenient to you, and make it MY fault when it isn’t.

You have no consideration for the fact that the mere idea of me entering the metaverse again is a literal waking nightmare for everyone involved. Or the fact that I am wringing myself out, over and over, because I cannot follow you there no matter what it is I do.

I’ve told you precisely how I feel about this entire situation, but yet again, you thoughtlessly wave your freedom and recklessness in front of my face while I sit here and watch, and you have the utter audacity to pretend your words aren’t knives in my back.

Amamiya: Goro, just

Amamiya: please listen to me

Amamiya: I’m SORRY

Amamiya: You’re right, I was an absolute asshole to have said that to you. I shouldn’t have said it. I wasn’t thinking and I would take it back in a heartbeat if I could, but I know it doesn’t work that way.

Amamiya: Everything you said is valid and you are right to be upset with me. 

Amamiya: But, none of it was what I meant by what I said. 

Amamiya: You have my word on that.

Amamiya: I was careless and you’re right, I wasn’t thinking about how you would feel or how it could be taken when I said it.

Amamiya: But that doesn’t make it right. I’m really, really sorry, okay? I didn’t mean to hurt you.

Amamiya: I’d never want that.

Amamiya: You know that, right?? That I’d never hurt you on purpose?

Amamiya: Please tell me you know that much, at least.

It’s harder to believe than you might realize.

Amamiya: I know.

11/08/2017 - 1:01am

Can I ask you something, in that case?

Amamiya: Of course. You can ask anything.

If you didn’t mean any of those things, then what did you mean?

Amamiya: Oh.

Amamiya: Well, all I meant was that we have a Goro Akechi-sized spot in our team.

Amamiya: Because you’re part of the team. Always were, still are, and always will be, even if you won’t admit it.

Amamiya: That’s all I meant by it.

Oh.

Amamiya:  See? Nothing bad.

If you say so.

Amamiya: I do.

Amamiya: Are you okay?

I need to think.

But I believe so.

Amamiya: Okay.

Amamiya: It’s late. We should sleep and if you’re still upset in the morning then we can talk more about it then?

Yeah. That sounds okay.

Amamiya: Goodnight Goro <3

Amamiya: I really care about you

Amamiya: Don’t ever forget that.

[Messages] Phantom Thieves OFFICIAL Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

11/08/2017 - 8:02am

[18 Unread Messages]

Joker: Alright everyone. We’ll meet at 10:30am at the camper to secure the route to the treasure. From there, we will locate the trauma cell. With any luck, we can send the calling card tonight. 

Joker: If anyone has any concerns, please let me know. We can adjust our plan from there.

11/08/2017 - 3:36pm

Joker: Good work team, our route is secured! Everyone can take one hour then we’ll meet back at the camper. Next is the trauma cell. 

11/08/2017 - 8:22pm

Joker: Meeting at 9pm. Almost there, guys.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

11/08/2017 - 10:55pm

Amamiya: Calling card has been sent.

Congratulations.

Amamiya: thanks

Amamiya: How are you doing?

I’m fine.

No questions two days in a row?

Amamiya: Yeah haha, don’t think I’ve forfeited!

Amamiya: We’ve just been busy.

Amamiya: And… after last night I was kinda worried you might not want to play anymore.

Amamiya: But to be fair, you haven’t asked anything either.

Maybe I’ve simply been busy, too.

Amamiya: Alright, then here’s your question:

Amamiya: What did you do today?

This nonsense again? You’re wasting your questions, Joker.

Amamiya: I have to disagree with you on that one, Crow ;)

Amamiya: Just answer it. It’s not a trick or a trap or anything. Just a normal question.

Fine.

I had several appointments throughout the day, one of which I had to wake up very early for. As a result, I slept through much of my free time in the afternoon.

Amamiya: ah, sorry for keeping you up late last night

You’re not responsible for my schedule.

Amamiya: Not the point.

Amamiya: Anyway, that does sound like a pretty busy day. You must be tired.

Not particularly. Again, I slept through my free time. I’m actually feeling quite awake right now.

Amamiya: You really do need a Morgana alarm. He’s already nagging me to go to bed.

Amamiya: Are you going to stay up again tonight?

That’s cheating. You only get one question.

Amamiya: oh COME ON Goro this is barely small talk

That's irrelevant. The rules are the rules.

Amamiya: You’re such an ass sometimes, u know that? :p

Amamiya: what’s my question then

Do you think that people can change due to their own willpower?

Amamiya: That's a pretty loaded question.

Just answer it.

Amamiya: Okay. Well, I think it depends on the person, and if they actually want to change.

Amamiya: Someone who doesn’t really want to change won’t put the work in.

Amamiya: But overall, yeah, if someone wants to change, I think they can. No matter who they were before.

That's a naïve point of view, but somehow unsurprising coming from you.

Amamiya: It’s my opinion. Sure, it might be a bit naïve, but it’s what I choose to believe.

Of course it is.

I did say I’m not surprised. It’s quite ‘on brand’ for you.

Amamiya: Am I supposed to take that as a compliment or criticism?

It could be both. Or neither. That’s up to you.

Amamiya: What is it, coming from you?

It depends on the day, I suppose.

Amamiya: And today?

Today?

Amamiya: yeah

I’m not sure.

Amamiya: It’s funny.

How so?

Amamiya: Hasegawa said the same thing to me earlier.

Amamiya: That the phantom thieves are naïve.

What was the comment about?

Amamiya: It’s a long story. 

I have time.

Amamiya: If you’re sure.

I am sure.

Tell me what happened.

Amamiya: It was about the current target, Mayor Hyodo. The way these trauma cells work… they show us the memories of the monarch, something that was hurtful or traumatic for them. And this one, well,

Amamiya: Last year at the winter festival, Hyodo hired people to build a giant snow sculpture. But, it collapsed and a little girl died because of it.

Amamiya: Afterward, Hyodo overheard the contractor who built the thing talking about cheap work and shoddy construction.

Amamiya: We thought that it was unfair that she was blamed for the collapse when it wasn’t her fault.

Amamiya: Hasegawa called us naïve, and said we are only playing pretend heroes.

Amamiya: He said that regardless of who actually built it, Hyodo is responsible because she was in charge.

You know, he has a point.

Amamiya: About what.

All of it. You are naïve, and that taints how you view justice and your own actions. The world is never so simple.

Hyodo is responsible for the collapse. She was in charge, and meant to oversee the festival. Therefore, anything that goes wrong is her responsibility. That is how the real world works.

Amamiya: And what about the ones who built it? Are they meant to just walk away, even if it was their negligence that killed that girl?

Does it matter? The girl died anyway, didn’t she?

Amamiya: They could do it again and hurt someone else. How is it right to let them go?

It’s not right. That doesn’t mean it isn’t what happens.

You of all people should know how rare true justice actually is in the real world.

Amamiya: I do.

Amamiya: That’s what makes me so angry. Just because that's how the world is doesn't mean it's how it should be.

Amamiya: So what if we’re a little naïve and idealistic? At least we are trying to help people.

Then you’re already better than most.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

12/08/2017 - 5:07am

Good luck today.

12/08/2017 - 7:21am

Amamiya: Thanks, Goro <3

Amamiya: I’ll message you when we get back.

You’d better.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

12/08/2017 - 2:18pm

Hello Sumire-chan.

Yoshizawa: Hi Goro-senpai! How are you?

I am fine, and yourself?

Yoshizawa: I’m well!

Yoshizawa: A bit tired, actually. It really hit me just how exhausted I was when we got home yesterday. I think I slept most of the day.

Understandable.

Yoshizawa: Yeah ahaha, but it was nothing that a nice day of rest couldn’t fix!

Assuming you aren't still out of commission, could I interest you in another game of scrabble? I’ve been brushing up on my technique.

Yoshizawa: So you actually did research it! Wow senpai, you’re so dedicated!

Of course I am.

Ren won’t know what hit him.

Yoshizawa: I’m out right now shopping for some groceries. I’d be happy to play with you once I get home, though.

That’s fine. Let me know when you are ready.

Enjoy your shopping.

12/08/2017 - 4:05pm

Yoshizawa: Sorry that took me so long!! I’m home now. We can start the game whenever you’re ready.

Excellent. I’ve started the game.

I don’t say things like this to you often, but I feel you need to hear it:

Prepare to be fucking CRUSHED

Yoshizawa: Don’t underestimate your opponent, senpai. You may be surprised.

12/08/2017 - 4:26pm

How

The fuck

Do you have such incredible luck pulling tiles

Yoshizawa: I don’t know, senpai.

Yoshizawa: I hate to say it this way, but... Maybe you’re just not very good at scrabble?

Nonsense.

My skill has nothing to do with that loss.

Yoshizawa: I think maybe we should try playing again?

Yoshizawa: It’s okay not to be the best at everything.

Not if I’m competing with Ren.

I told you, I need to win against him.

Yoshizawa: Okay. Let's play another game then.

12/08/2017 - 4:37pm

Yoshizawa: That was much closer!

I still lost.

Fuck.

Yoshizawa: Why do you need to win against Ren so badly anyway?

Simple: he’s my rival.

As such, it is my duty to prove that I am better than him.

Yoshizawa: Is that how he sees it too?

Of course it is.

How else would he see it?

Yoshizawa: Oh Goro…

Yoshizawa: You really should talk to him about that.

Yoshizawa: It’s not my place to make assumptions about the relationship you two have, but… I really don’t think you’re right about that.

What do you mean?

Yoshizawa: Again, it’s really not my place to speculate.

Yoshizawa: But, I don’t think that a “rival” is all you are to him, though.

Yoshizawa: You should talk to him about that. I truly mean that.

Eventually.

But not before I beat him at scrabble.

That would just be embarrassing.

:P

Yoshizawa: Of course you say that :p

If we aren’t rivals, then what are we?

Yoshizawa: Have you considered that maybe you’re friends?

Of course we’re friends.

I’ve thought about that quite a bit, actually. It took some time to reach this conclusion, but...

I can admit that we are, indeed, friends.

However, that definition is still not quite robust enough.

Thus, we are rivals.

Yoshizawa: It’s not me you need to explain it to.

Yoshizawa: Just… please promise me you’ll talk with him? About this?

I can’t promise that right now. You know that, Sumire.

It is not a slight against you that I say so.

I know you’re right.

just

Not yet.

Yoshizawa: I understand that.

Yoshizawa: In the meantime, would you like to play scrabble again?

Sure. More practice can’t hurt.

12/08/2017 - 5:19pm

FUCKING FINALLY

IT’S ABOUT DAMN TIME

Yoshizawa: Congratulations!!! You did it!!!

Yoshizawa: That was a really strong game!!!

I’ll admit, I got lucky a few times there.

Perhaps we could play a few more rounds of practice before I surprise Ren?

Yoshizawa: Of course! Supper is almost ready for me, so maybe later?

Sure.

Enjoy your evening, Sumire.

And

Um

Thanks :)

Yoshizawa: Anytime! :)

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

12/08/2017 - 6:57pm

Amamiya: We’re back.

I'll take it you won. How was it?

Amamiya: UGH don’t ask. I need a few ice packs and SEVERAL painkillers.

Amamiya: Actually, scratch that

Amamiya: No ice, pleaseandthankyouerymuch

Overdid it today, did you?

Amamiya: i thought I said not to ask :p

Amamiya: Lets skip questions today

Amamiya: I am going to bed the moment we get back to the camper

Amamiya: goodnight

Okay then. Goodnight.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ryuji Sakamoto

12/08/2017 - 8:22pm

I am loath to ask, but how was the fight today? Ren wouldn’t say.

Sakamoto: o hey akechi

Sakamoto: oof it was brutal tbh

What happened?

Sakamoto: wrong weaknesses an stuff

Sakamoto: with everything being ice, we thought fire would be the best way to take her down but MAN were we effin wrong

Sakamoto: it was me, joker, panther and queen. Thought we’d be fine bc joker queen an panther all have at least a bit of healing skills, plus panther’s got fire PLUS queen is a powerhouse i tell ya

I take it her affinities had nothing to do with Fire skills?

Sakamoto: NOPE LOL

Sakamoto: but ann was still weak to ice so she spent most of the battle outta commission

Sakamoto: makoto’s nuke and my electric did basically NOTHING

Sakamoto: and joker was geared up for fire.

Sakamoto: wanna guess the effin shadow’s weakness?

I haven’t the faintest clue.

Sakamoto: psy and curse

Fucking hell.

He mentioned he had nothing for curse currently, and was working up to psy.

I take it that he hadn’t reached his goal prior to the battle?

Sakamoto: nope.

Sakamoto: it really sucked

Sakamoto: an its good queen could heal and he gave us all a stash of healing items before the start because he basically spent the whole battle on his ass

Sakamoto: like, we used the whole stash between the 4 of us

I’m sorry to hear that. Considering how well Joker keeps you stocked, that sounds grueling.

Sakamoto: thanks akechi

Sakamoto: it was pretty bad ngl

Sakamoto: its done tho, so thats p awesome

Sakamoto: besides, who knows what's next :)

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

13/08/2017 - 2:18am

In your view, would you say that we are friends?

13/08/2017 - 2:32am

Amamiya: Yes?

Isn’t it too early for you to be awake?

Amamiya: I should be asking you that lol

Amamiya: Is this what you spend your nights brooding on? Whether or not I think of you as a friend?

Amamiya: I thought i was pretty clear on how i feel about you

Then write this off as me simply overthinking.

Amamiya: Okay, if you say so.

Amamiya: Do you think of us as friends?

Amamiya: It’s only fair if I get to ask you back

Against my better judgment.

Yes.

We are friends.

Amamiya: :) 

Amamiya: That makes me stupidly happy to hear you admit that, you know

Amamiya: You should see me, grinning like an idiot over here

You got the idiot part right.

Why are you awake anyway? Don’t you have phantom thieving activities to be resting for?

Amamiya: Yeah, but I went to bed so early that I woke up at like 1:30am and now I can’t get back to sleep

Amamiya: Who knows, maybe i’ll mess up my sleep schedule so bad I become a vampire or something

Amamiya: What is keeping you up?

Nothing in particular.

Amamiya: C’mon, no late night heart-to-heart?

The more you needle me about it, the less likely I am to tell you anything at all.

Amamiya: Fair point, but where’s the fun if I can’t torment you with my good looks and irresistible charm ;) <3

No.

Amamiya: No?

Your “charms” are remarkably easy to resist.

Amamiya: So you admit that i have charms, then?

Thats

Not at all what I am saying

Amamiya: Then what ARE you saying, detective? ;)

You’re delirious.

Goodnight, Amamiya.

Amamiya: Goro noooooooooooo~~

I’m going to try and get some sleep, after all. You should do the same.

Amamiya: okay, if you insist

Amamiya: goodnight goro <3

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

13/08/2017 - 8:48am

[99+ unread messages]

Hee Ho #6: Does anyone want to grab something to eat? It’s our last day here in Sapporo so we may as well explore our options before heading out.

Hee Ho #6: Ugh, I forgot about these awful nicknames.

Awful is an understatement.

Hee Ho #6: For once I think we agree on something, Akechi.

Hee Ho #1: i’m gonna do us a solid and scrap these

Hee Ho #2: :( but I like them they r funny!

Hee Ho #1: too bad so sad

[Hee Ho #1 removed all nicknames from the chat] - 8:51am

Niijima: That’s much better, thank you Futaba!

Niijima: Now, if we could please return to the topic of breakfast?

Kitagawa: A proper meal would be splendid. I am quite famished.

Amamiya: You say that like I haven’t been cooking for you this whole trip!

Sakura: yeah inari you inhaled the lunch ren made yesterday like u had never seen food b4

Okumura: Breakfast sounds lovely, Mako-chan!

Okumura: Meet at the camper?

Kitagawa: Futaba and I will meet you there.

Niijima: See you soon

Takamaki: Oooh breakfast!! <3 Give me 5 minutes and I’ll be right there!

Sakamoto: if theres meat im in

Niijima: I’m sure we can find somewhere that suits everyone

Sakamoto: sweet dude

Sakamoto: renren? u in bro?

Amamiya: Nah, thanks though. You guys have fun, I have some stuff to take care of but I’ll meet you back at the camper later okay?

Niijima: Are you sure? We can wait for you, if you are finishing something.

Amamiya: 100%! Go eat!! I’ll catch up with you later!

Sakamoto: broooooo if u say so! Will bring u smthg back?

Amamiya: Sure, that would be sweet, thanks bro

Sakamoto: i gotchu bro

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

13/08/2017 - 7:46pm

Takamaki: Heyyyyy Akechi! :) :)

Hello Takamaki-san. What do you want?

Takamaki: Seriously, no need for honorifics!! I just wanted to say hi and see how you are doing! :)

That is suspect.

I’m fine.

What do you really want?

Takamaki: So I can’t check in on a friend?? :) 

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

13/08/2017 - 7:55pm

Amamiya: Are you ready for your question of the day?

Amamiya: Ik it’s been a busy few days but that doesn’t mean I forgot about our game

Sure, why not.

Amamiya: Last year, when I finally beat you at billiards and you asked me if I would leave my friends behind and join you instead

Amamiya: What would you have done if I had said yes?

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

13/08/2017 - 7:58pm

Takamaki: why not??

Takamaki: we should be!!

Takamaki: you can call me ann btw

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

13/08/2017 - 8:02pm

I fucking HATE THIS GAME [Message Removed]

You have a talent for asking the worst questions.

Amamiya: HA I’ll take that as a compliment

Of course you would.

Amamiya: Answer the question, Akechi :P 

Fine.

This is purely hypothetical, of course, because in reality you did not accept.

Had you accepted my offer, however, I would have been disappointed that you abandoned your justice so easily.

Amamiya: It wouldn’t have been “easily”, I can promise that lol

I’m sure we would have made a good team, in another reality where perhaps we had met a few years earlier.

But as things stood, there was no course of events I could see playing out positively, had you joined me.

My hands were already tied. I would have been forced to either kill you or drag you down to hell with me.

Amamiya: like you said, it’s hypothetical

Amamiya: it didn’t happen, and we are both still here now

Amamiya: so

Amamiya: it turned out okay?

Amamiya: right?

You could say that.

I suppose it depends on your definition of “okay”

Amamiya: are things NOT okay?

Well, Shido’s corpse isn’t rotting in a pit somewhere, so things certainly didn’t go according to MY plan

Amamiya: okay fair

But, my plan also involved me putting a bullet in your head

So, who’s to say what’s the better version of events.

Amamiya: for what it's worth, Shido can rot in a pit eventually

Amamiya: he just has to spend the rest of his stupid life behind bars first

It’s not the same as me putting a gun to his head and listening to him grovel at my feet and beg for mercy, only for me to watch the light leave his eyes once and for all

Amamiya: wow that’s

Abhorrent?

Amamiya: I was going to say “intense”, but sure

Don’t you cower and hide, now, Joker.

Amamiya: Me, scared? Of you? 

Amamiya: Never

I don’t think I’ll ever understand you.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

13/08/2017 - 8:36pm

Takamaki: I can tell you’re avoiding me Akechi-kun and I don’t careeeeee :) 

Takamaki: Makoto and Haru and I are riding the ferris wheel in Sapporo together and the view is SO PRETTY!!

Takamaki: sent an image

Takamaki: I’m not the only one who wishes you were here to see it with us

…

It is quite a pretty view.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

13/08/2017 - 8:40pm

Amamiya: I’m not asking you to.

Amamiya: I’m sure there’s plenty of things I will never understand about you either.

Amamiya: I’ve accepted that. I don’t need to understand everything. 

Amamiya: I accept those things anyway.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ann Takamaki

13/08/2017 - 8:45pm

Takamaki: Ikr!!!! Here is another!

Takamaki: sent an image

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

13/08/2017 - 9:55pm

Amamiya: I hope you’ll accept the parts of me you don’t understand, too [Message Removed]

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

13/08/2017 - 10:16pm

[99+ unread messages]

Sakura: send 14 images

Sakamoto: oh DUDE this is gonna be A W E S O M E

Takamaki: I’m so excited! Good thing I brought 6 different swimsuits!!

Niijima: I only brought one but I’m sure that will be more than enough. Ann, I’d be surprised if you go through more than two of yours.

Takamaki: Well if you or Haru (or you too Futaba!!) want to wear any of mine, you are welcome to!!

Okumura: Aww thank you Ann! That’s sweet of you! I should be alright - I brought 3 of my own!

Sophia: Why did you all bring so many swimsuits?

Takamaki: You can never be too prepared for a beach day on a summer vacation road trip! :) 

Sophia: So beach days are a summer ritual?

Amamiya: You could say that.

Sophia: Ren, did you bring multiple swimsuits, too?

Amamiya: Nah, I only own one.

Sakamoto: yeah our swimsuits aren’t nearly as important as the girls ones

Takamaki: thats gross ryuji

Sakamoto: what

Takamaki: just keep your eyes to yourself!

Sakamoto: ugh FINEEEEE if we have to

Kitagawa: If we will be spending an extended time on the beach, this could be a splendid opportunity for a nude portrait, if anyone would indulge me.

Takamaki: no

Okumura: No thank you.

Niijima: No.

Sakura: inari I will drown u in the ocean first

Sakamoto: no way dude

Amamiya: is this a paid modeling gig?

Takamaki: Ren, please no

Takamaki: Ren, don’t do this to us

Sophia: I am afraid I do not understand the opposition to Yusuke’s request.

Amamiya: uhhhhh Sophia we will explain later

Sophia: okay! ~~~

Somehow, when I read the news to find out that the lot of you have been arrested for public indecency, I will not be surprised.

I also will not post bail.

Kitagawa: Ah, Akechi. It is a true shame that you will not be joining us in Okinawa. You would be a perfect specimen and it would be my honor to immortalize your form in the fine art of painting.

I’m electing to ignore the majority of that.

Okinawa? That’s on the other side of the country from you.

Amamiya: It’s our next destination! It will take a while to get there but I’m sure it will be worth it.

Chapter Text

Goro Akechi’s Phone

Email: [email protected]

Okinawabunga - unread
[email protected] - 14/08/2017 1:22am

Subject: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 1:22am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

So you probably guessed that the real reason we are going to Okinawa is not for the beach

______

Subject: RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 1:46am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Clearly.

Care to divulge?

______

Subject: RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 1:47am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

No lol

______

Subject: RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 1:58am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Jk jk

So apparently after Ichinose sold EMMA to Madicce, the servers were transferred to a facility in Okinawa. There are a TON of change log entries with IPs in that region, so I bet it was before anything real happened with it because otherwise i would HOPE these dummies would at least disguise it smh noobs. 

Anyway Madicce has a research lab here. Why? Dunno!! But we are gonna find out. There aren’t even any records of it so idk how officially sanctioned it was. Unknown to the public, no private records, etc. We are gonna check it out.

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:08am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Whose half-baked plan is that?

If there are no records of the facility, how did you stumble upon this suspiciously convenient tip?

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:10am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Ok so how bad does it sound if I say that Ichinose called Ren and told us about it………..

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:25am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

The continued survival of the Phantom Thieves astounds me. You are, all of you, morons at best. I’ll save us both the trouble of describing a more realistic classification of your collective intelligence.

We’ve clearly established that Ichinose is suspicious. Why would Madicce have a facility in Okinawa anyway? And even if Ichinose is telling the truth, what good does it do your group to travel there? For all you know, this could be a trap.

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:31am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

It’s not great but tbh none of this is great. Like don’t get me wrong its cool to be the Phantom Thieves again but like the stakes could be lower lol i don’t want any of us to be arrested and Ren has gone through enough as it is.  But, when life gives you lemons, yadda yadda

Anyway we have to go there because the metaverse is weird like that. If Madicce was actually experimenting on the metaverse in Okinawa, there’s probably some sort of impact on cognition. we can try and find proof of SOMETHING

Worst case theres nothing here at all and we get to chill on the beach. Besides we’re already on the way

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:39am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

Okay I’ll admit you have a point about the impact on cognition. How long ago was the experimentation? The impact on cognition may have been localized but if experimentation was performed years ago then I doubt it would have a sustained impact now.

Also, I take issue with your “worst case” scenario. I can think of several scenarios which are considerably worse than getting to “chill on the beach”. Namely, being arrested for any number of crimes, or lured into a trap by the orchestrators of this conspiracy and murdered in cold blood.

______

Subject: RE RE RE RE RE RE RE RE RE: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:42am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

OK fine ur right about the worst case scenarios. We’ll be careful, alright? None of us are gonna let Ren get hurt by these guys. You’re such a helicopter mom geez

The change logs are from like last month so im willing to bet we will find something

______

Subject: REx10: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:45am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

And if the IP was faked?

______

Subject: REx11: Okinawabunga - 14/08/2017 2:45am
From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

it wasnt

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

14/08/2017 - 4:13am

Amamiya: Hey Goro [Message Removed]

Amamiya: We’re halfway to Kyoto now. Gotta stop there for something or other for gramps. [Message Removed]

Amamiya: i cant sleep [Message Removed]

Amamiya: Makoto and Zenkichi kept talking about cops. I just don’t understand why Makoto wants to work for the police so bad. [Message Removed]

Amamiya: I just hate the reminder so much [Message Removed]

Amamiya: i want to be supportive of her but every time she talks about them [Message Removed]

Amamiya: i’m back in that room again [Message Removed]

Amamiya: its not real. I know its over and in the past. And she has her whole history with her dad [Message Removed]

Amamiya: it just stings, i guess [Message Removed]

Amamiya: plus its not like Zenkichi actually had anything nice to say about them [Message Removed]

Amamiya: god you would probably think i’m so stupid [Message Removed]

Amamiya: nevermind i guess [Message Removed]

If you have something to say to me at ass-o’clock in the morning you should spit it out already.

Amamiya: oh shit sorry i didn’t realize you were awake

I can see you typing. And erasing. And typing again.

Amamiya: whoops lol

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sumire Yoshizawa

14/08/2017 - 8:36am

Yoshizawa: Hi Goro-senpai! :) 

Yoshizawa: How are you doing? I realized we didn’t message much the last couple days

[Messages] Phantom Memes Group Chat - Ren Amamiya + 9 others

14/08/2017 - 12:20pm

[99+ unread messages]

Sakamoto: BRO I CANNOT BELEV U ANSWERED HIS PHONE

Amamiya: What was I supposed to do??

Sakamoto: let it go to voicemail????

Sakura: then where would we get all our intel

Sakamoto: cant u hack it or smthg

Sakura: not without actually getting my hands on it stupid

Sakura: also still reeling from gramps being a DAD

Niijima: I’m not surprised. He is a fair number of years older than us.

Niijima: It is not uncommon for even dedicated professionals to have personal lives outside of their vocations.

14/08/2017 - 5:44pm

Kitagawa: What a splendid array of vegetables! I regret that I did not bring my art supplies on this particular excursion!

Takamaki: Ren don't listen to him we are only getting the ingredients on the list you gave us

Amamiya: It's fine if you get others. I’ll just use them tomorrow or something.

Kitagawa: We will select only the ingredients with beautiful shapes and colors.

Kitagawa: I could never allow anything but beautiful vegetables to enter your kitchen.

Amamiya: its really fine yusuke

Kitagawa: Nonsense!

Sakura: inari

Sakura: were in the lobster section

Sakura: need any?

Kitagawa: How much are they? I’m afraid I do not have much spare cash.

Okumura: If you need extra money, I’m sure we can sort something out between us all. It would be a shame if you had to miss out.

Takamaki: Haru no

Takamaki: He’s just going to buy the lobsters

Kitagawa: How kind of you, Haru! I would be much obliged

Sakamoto: YUSUKE NO

Sakamoto: NOT AGAIN

Kitakawa: if you could transfer the funds to me in advance of this purchase. I believe we are in dire need of crustaceans. They are such beautiful creatures.

Takamaki: Haru, please don’t!

Okumura: Sent! You should have it in a couple minutes.

Amamiya: Yusuke please make sure you get a cage for them too.

Amamiya: They will need to stay in the van while we are at Zenkichi’s place.

14/08/2017 - 6:03pm

Amamiya: Mission accomplished! Regroup at the van in 10?

Okumura: See you there, Ren-kun!

Kitagawa: Upon our rendezvous I will introduce you to our newest team members.

Takamaki: Yusuke how many lobsters

Sakamoto: …. 8

Kitagawa: 9 actually, you forgot to count Sir Legsworthy

Sakamoto: that’s not better

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Sae Niijima

14/08/2017 - 7:38pm

Niijima: Hello Akechi. This is a courtesy reminder that I will be visiting tomorrow, as we discussed and agreed upon last month.

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Ren Amamiya

14/08/2017 - 9:58pm

Amamiya: Hey Goro! Haven’t heard from you today much, how are you doing?

Amamiya: even if you dont wanna talk about your day, its been crazy on our end and i could tell you about that

Amamiya: if you’re interested

[Messages] Goro Akechi -> Unknown Number

14/08/2017 - 10:12pm

Unknown: Consider my offer. I will return on August 28th to hear your final decision.