Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

This wasn’t how things were supposed to go! Ryuji growled at Shadow Kamoshida, trying to break free of the hold the suits of armor Shadows had on him. The speedo clad Shadow was supposed to threaten to kill him, not Akira! 

His best friend of countless time loops was doubled over in pain from when the bastard coach punched him. With a smug smirk Kamoshida sent his way, he ordered his guards to kill Akira. 

Ryuji yelled out for him to stop when he felt a familiar pain wrack through his head. It was Captain Kidd, eager to burst free. “All the times before you made me wait quite a while. But if you wait any longer, it’ll be the end of your cherished friend.”

Ryuji ducked his head down, hiding a sharp smile. He mentally answered back, “Then I need your power. Let’s form a pact and wreck havok!”

He heard the captain laugh at the echo of their usual contract. “ Excellent! I am thou, thou art I! These are new waters we’ll be treading but hoist your flag proudly! The skull of rebellion is your flag henceforth!”

Ryuji felt the weight of a mask settle on his face. The guards were closing in on Akira, who was fearfully looking at the very real, very sharp swords they held. “That’s enough, you bastard!” Ryuji yelled. 

Thankfully the guards stopped and everyone turned to him. He gripped his mask and ripped it off, summoning Captain Kidd in a flurry of blue flames and chains. The force of his summoning knocked over the guards holding him down. Akira stared in awe with his mouth hanging open at the sight of Ryuji and his Persona. 

Kamoshida will have to wait, first he gotta save Akira. He grinned at the familiar rush of power and pointed at the guards near Akira. “Blast ‘em away Captain Kidd!”

“No!” Shadow Kamoshida grimaced as his guards disintegrated after being struck by lightning. While the Shadow was distracted Ryuji shoved him and knocked him down. 

He ran to Akira, extending a hand to him and helped him up. “Hey, you ok, man? Let’s get outta here.” Akira nodded at him with a grateful smile and they rushed out of the cell. Akira spotted the keys Kamoshida dropped and picked them up and helped Ryuji lock the door to the cell.

They were panting in an empty hallway after getting as far from Shadow Kamoshida as they could. “I think we’re safe here, for now.” Ryuji said with a huff, still catching his breath. He forgot how tiring awakening your persona for the first time was.

“Thanks for saving me. I-- your clothes!” Akira tilted his head looking at him with interest.

“Hmm? Oh-- Huh!?” He looked down expecting his usual phantom thief outfit but it was much different than what he expected. He had a long, black pirate coat that kinda felt like a mix of Kidd’s coat and Akira’s phantom thief tailcoat. On the back seemed like wave patterns but was actually a long sea dragon weaving to and fro. Thankfully, some things were the same, like his yellow gloves and red ascot. 

Ryuji sweated when he noticed his mask felt different. He took it off and flipped it over in his hands to take a better look at it. It wasn’t his classic skull mask but it seemed like a dragon’s skull instead, at least the theming was kinda the same.

Akira opened his mouth to say something but was interrupted by a scream. “What- what was that? Is someone else here? Let’s help them.” He said, rushing in the direction of the scream but stopped and looked pleadingly at Ryuji.

Akira... bless his bleeding heart. Ryuji was sure it was a cognition of one of the volleyball team being horrendously tortured in Kamoshida’s palace (he didn’t like to hear them suffering but the torture will stop when they steal the treasure) but… he could never say no to Akira. “Yeah! Let’s go!”

The student cognition was face down in a cell and groaning. “Hey, are you alright?” Akira called out to him.

The cognition groaned. “No please, just go away.”

“But…”

Ryuji and Akira flinched as they heard the guards running close by. Ryuji tensed, ready to fend off the incoming Shadows. But his phantom outfit disappeared and his exhaustion rushed back. “S-- Shit.”

“Hey!” Akira looked conflicted, glancing between him and the cognition. He shook his head, narrowing his eyes with determination. “Let’s get away from here. We can’t save him if we’re dead. We can come back for him when you’re not exhausted, right?” Akira held his arm and squeezed softly, he didn’t want Ryuji getting hurt trying to protect them while he was very tired.

Akira… Ryuji nodded with a soft smile. “Of course, man.”

They stopped in another hallway that seemed free of Shadows. Ryuji’s phantom outfit returned as he caught his breath. He could maybe hold out for one more fight. Which was perfect, cause he just remembered what was gonna happen next.

“Hey! Frizzy hair! Blondie!” A boyish voice called out. Morgana! “You’re looking for the exit right? I can lead you there! Just get me outta here!”

“A cat!?” Akira said in surprise.

“I am not a cat! I’m human, the name’s Morgana! Hurry, the guards will be here soon!”

Akira turned to Ryuji who nodded and opened the cell door.

Morgana stretched and said with a purr. “Ahh, sweet freedom~. Thank you.”

A guard appeared before them causing Akira to step back. “More of them?”

“Heh, small fry compared to us.” Morgana jumped onto and over Akira to land in front of him. He turned to Ryuji. “Hey, you could fight too, right? Let’s go!”

“Come, Zorro!” He summoned his Persona, who slashed the air with speed and flare in a ‘Z’ pattern.

Akira gasped at the new Persona. “He has one too?”

They made short work of the Shadows. Morgana chuckled with a cat-like grin. “Heh, you’re pretty good--” Just then Ryuji’s phantom attire disappeared again. “But I guess you’re still an amateur. Your powers are still unstable. Oh yeah, you wanted to find the exit, right? Follow me.”

He led them to a vent they could escape with. They parted ways with Morgana and headed back to the real world.

They heard a bell and glancing at their phones, the boys found that several class periods had already passed.

“Shit! We’re late. Come on, let’s go. Let’s think of something to tell the teachers. ...You think they would buy it if we told them I was showing you around but lost track of time?” Ryuji grabbed Akira’s arm and started to drag him in the direction of the school and was muttering his suggestions.

Akira was surprised but then his expression settled into something fond and joined in the brainstorming.

They survived the lectures and hopefully Akira wasn’t in too much trouble. The teachers probably blamed him more than the new transfer student. Just one of the ‘perks’ of being the resident delinquent but if it helped Akira in any way, then he was glad.

He saw Akira heading to the train station after school and happily invited him for ramen, Ryuji’s treat. They formally introduced themselves and Ryuji even got Akira to tell him what brought him to Tokyo even though to Akira, he was a stranger he met today.

His story never failed to get Ryuji riled up. It was just so unfair, Akira did the right thing but was heavily punished for it. Of course, he let Akira know just how he felt. Akira’s eyes widened like he never thought anyone would believe him and be on his side, which definitely made Ryuji want to punch something because of that shitty politician and society hurting Akira so badly.

“Thank you.” Akira said softly with a grateful smile. 

Akira was so beautiful when he was happy.

Ryuji blushed at the thought and ducked his head in an attempt to hide it. “O-Of course…”

They parted ways when Ryuji got off on his stop and he headed to his apartment.

Ryuji flopped on his bed, thinking about how differently this time loop started and how different his new phantom outfit was. It was kinda scary for something new to happen but exciting all the same, maybe this was the change he was looking for and freedom from these loops was in sight.

He closed his eyes and quickly drifted off to sleep. His dreams filled with a velvet blue.

Chapter Text

What the hell? He recognized the blue walls of this crazy jail he found himself in. It was right before the big bad of time loops that go smoothly. It was way too soon to be here, locked up. But instead of his cell leading into a hallway, the bars separated it from a big circular room.

He gripped the bars, gritting his teeth at the grinning, long nose man. He recognized him too, in the previous time loops whenever he was speaking with Akira, he’d speak with a higher pitched voice but had a supportive, friendly vibe to him despite his wide eyes, and perpetual grin.

This guy though… he looked exactly the same but it was like he was a different person. A deeper, rough voice, and a smug, all knowing attitude left an awful, churning feeling in his stomach. He also talked about rehabilitation this, rehabilitation that, which he couldn’t care less about. But one of the two wardens would always smack the bars whenever he wasn’t paying attention.

They kind of reminded him of Lavenza. But he only remembered Akira talking to her and no other blue-clad girls. Were they sisters?

He didn’t have time to question them before they told him he’d wake up soon and in the next moment he was back in his room. He was on his futon always set up away from his bed. He never would have thought he'd hate the idea of sleeping in his bed but everytime he woke up on it, he’d give himself a scare thinking he started another loop. That’s how it’d always start, waking up in bed at the start of April again.

Ryuji shook his head, no use dwelling on that. Today, he had to think of a way to convince Akira to come with him back to Kamoshida’s palace. It shouldn’t be too hard, he was still kind-hearted as always and wanted to save the student they saw. He grinned when he saw what he bought from the Airsoft shop and packed it in his bag. This way Akira wouldn’t be totally defenseless until he awakens his persona.

“Hey, what’s up?” Ryuji asked as he met up with Akira and walked with him to school.

Akira looked down and spoke in a quiet voice. “It’s nothing to worry about.”

“It is, if it's bothering you.”

There was a tinge of pink on Akira’s cheeks as he looked up in surprise. “It's just… for some reason everyone thinks I’m a hardened criminal and are afraid of me. They avoid me and I can’t ask anyone to share their textbook with me while I try to buy one…”

“Is that all? You can use mine! Here you go!” He dug into his backpack and held out his text book to him.

“But--!”

“Aww, don’t worry about it!” Ryuji grinned and Akira really didn’t have to since the lessons were pretty much muscle memory to him at this point. Also he didn’t feel like thinking about homework or textbooks right now.

“Let me at least repay you somehow. You’ve been nothing but nice to me since I got here.” Ryuji struggled against Akira’s pleading puppy eyes but stood firm and waved him off.

“Seriously, don’t worry about it. Let’s just hang out on the rooftop at lunch, ok?”

“Wait, won’t you need this for classwork or homework?”

“Uh…”

In a sudden burst of sly confidence, Akira smirked and gripped his shoulder. “Let’s study together, we could get both our work done.” Gah, he caught on to him wanting to slack off.

“...Fine.” He half heartedly whined but straightened up when he remembered what he wanted to do today. “Oh yeah, I wanted to talk to you about that place, we’ll talk more on the roof.” To which Akira nodded.

After class they managed to find their way back to the castle. Akira was excited to be here despite having no way to defend himself. He felt bad that he’d just hold Ryuji back since he’d have to protect him but somehow, as always, Ryuji managed to surprise him.

Akira stared blankly at the… sleek gun Ryuji just placed onto the palms of his hands. “Uh…”

Ryuji just laughed like it was no big deal. “Heh, don’t worry, it ain’t real or anything. But it looks like the real deal, right?! But seriously, if you find yourself in trouble, you could fake ‘em out just long enough for me to come running.”

Akira gripped the gun tighter. Did Ryuji know he’d ask to come back and he thought this far ahead to get him something to defend himself with? He’ll make sure to do what he can for Ryuji.

Despite Ryuji’s claim that this was a fake gun, he was oddly insistent that he’s careful where he points it.

They met back up with Morgana who took an interest in his gun and had a cat grin on his face as he thought of an ‘interesting’ idea. Said idea had him join the fray in one battle, Morgana on one side and Ryuji on the other, just in case. The non-cat told him to fire away with his toy gun. He did so but highly doubted that--!

A loud bang resounded and a bullet fired from it! It managed to defeat the Pixie they were fighting. The gun even recoiled in his grip causing him to almost drop it. He stared at the gun with wide eyes.

“Oh, uh! Holy shit, dude! I-I’m sure I just bought a fake. It didn’t make a sound before! And it definitely didn’t have bullets in it!” Ryuji’s surprise sounded a bit odd, but before he could ask him about it Morgana explained what just happened.

“Heh, that’s the power of cognition. This place was made from the ruler’s cognition. You could say since the Shadow thought it looked like a real gun, it acts like a real gun.”

Whatever made this happen, he was glad he had a way to help now.

Akira should have known that after all he’d been through, the world wouldn’t let him slip by that easily. Ryuji and Morgana were pinned by the guards and the ‘king’ gym teacher was taunting him and Ryuji. 

Gloating how he’s the one to have purposely goaded Ryuji about his dad until he punched him. Destroying the hopes and dreams of his teammates and getting the previous coach fired. Of course he had to return the favor and break his leg. And now he’s powerless again and causing trouble for his ‘friends’ yet again.

“Ryuji…” Morgana said softly.

“Damn you…” Ryuji growled as he struggled under a guard's boot. But when he caught sight of Akira, he yelled out, “Run! Get away-- guh!” He grunted as the guard put more weight on him.

“What’s the matter? Are you simply going to watch?”

Suddenly, Akira’s head pounded and he fell to his knees gripping his head. Kamoshida laughed thinking he was giving up and returned his focus to Ryuji ordering a guard to finally get rid of him.

“Death awaits him if you do nothing. Was that previous choice a mistake?”

Images of that woman he saved and that man he angered flitted across his mind. “...No, it wasn’t.” He stood back up, a black domino mask with red flames around the eyes forming on his face in a blaze of blue fire.

“Huh?” Kamoshida turned back to Akira.

“Very well, I have heeded your resolve. Vow to me, I am thou, thou art I. This power of mine is yours, run wild to your heart’s content!”

Akira ripped off the mask and yelled out, “Arsène!” He summoned his Persona who gestured towards Kamoshida and his guards, launching dark, cursed flames their way. It was enough distraction for Ryuji and Morgana to get away and return to his side.

They quickly made short work of the guards Kamoshida sent after them but it was a distraction of his own and they lost sight of him.

Akira panted and nearly fell over but Ryuji was there at once to steady him. Akira sighed fondly, of course Ryuji was there to catch him.

“Whoa…” He heard Ryuji whisper.

Ryuji was looking him over, specifically his new clothes. He had a vivid red tail coat, the two ‘tails’ were cut to look almost like bat wings and were accented with gold. He had a gray vest underneath and black pants leading to some high heeled boots.

Akira smirked at him. “You jelly?”

He chuckled when Ryuji sputtered a weak denial. Ryuji’s mask was unable to completely hide his blush.

Chapter Text

Ryuji leaned against a wall, deep in thought while waiting for his train. Akira's phantom outfit was different than usual too. What did that mean?

He didn't notice Akira walking up to him. "Ryuji?" 

Hmm. Was this just another change to show this loop was particularly more special than the rest? Even after all these years in these loops, he did sometimes need things to be spelt out for him. He wasn’t as sharp as Joker or Queen.

Oh well, he’s sure Joker will lead them to kicking that false god’s butt again in no time and hopefully end these time loops.

“Hey, Ryuji!” 

“Gah!” Ryuji jumped when someone tapped his shoulder. “Oh shit, sorry! Didn’t notice ya. I was kinda thinkin’ ‘bout stuff.”

“Hmm. Palace stuff?” Akira asked.

“Something like that, I guess.” Ryuji said, to which Akira nodded appreciatively. Ryuji wrapped an arm around his shoulder and led them towards the train that had just arrived. “Oh, here’s our train, let's go!”

Ugh, class was boring as usual, Ryuji couldn’t wait to go to the Palace to explore more with Akira and Morgana. But his stomach was churning with dread for some reason, was he forgetting-- Ah! Shiho!

It was around this time or a few days later that scumbag will… He had to keep an eye on her. Who knows if these changes would affect when but he knows for sure that it will happen. He always tries to stop Kamoshida before he preys on her, which usually landed him the deadline for expulsion a lot faster than his first few loops. 

But that’s a price he’s willing to pay, he’d never forgive himself if he did nothing while knowing perfectly well what was about to go down.

“Alright, let’s settle on codenames. It’d be safer to use a codename to help hide our identities.” Morgana instructed.

“Dibs on Skull!” Ryuji puffed out his chest. “How about Mona for you, Morgana? It's based on the island believed to have held Captain Kidd’s legendary treasure, you know since we’re after treasure ‘n all.”

“Oh! I like it!” Morgana said with a purr and a swish of his tail. He turned to Akira, who was tapping his chin. “Alright, did you pick a codename yet, Akira?”

“...Joker.” Ryuji could barely contain his gasp. “It kinda just popped into my head. ...For some reason it feels familiar.” 

Ryuji quickly pushed down his giddiness and pumped a fist to show his support. “I like it, we’ll be counting on you, Joker!” In his excitement he missed how Akira shivered slightly when he said his codename and turned his head away with a blush.

Just one last Shadow to defeat to get a key they need. They held the petite, fairy Shadow in a hold up, ready to finish her off when she suddenly pleaded for her life. “You want this key, right? Just take it and spare me!”

“Whoa!” Skull managed to catch the key that was sent his way. “Oh, uh, thanks.”

He lowered his shotgun, the Shadow did just give them the key without too much of a fight so might as well keep up their part of the bargain. Joker and Mona followed and lowered their weapons too.

The Shadow smiled, grateful for the mercy they showed when she started glowing. “Oh! Now I remember. I drift around in the sea of souls, my name is Pixie. I shall become a new mask and grant you my power.”

Skull yelped when the Shadow shot towards him and disappeared into his mask. With a shaky hand, he gripped his mask. He could feel Pixie in the back of his mind along with Captain Kidd. This… this was not how it was supposed to go! This power should be Joker’s!

Mona and Joker ran up to him, eyes wide with interest. They weren’t aware of the panic Skull was slipping into. Skull remembered in a previous fight how Mona got injured and subconsciously pulled his mask off, summoning Pixie. “Dia.” He still couldn’t quite believe it, even though his new Persona did as he asked and healed Mona.

“No way! You can wield multiple personas?! I’ve never seen this before!” Mona said, still slack jawed.

“That’s amazing, Skull!” Joker nodded at him with a smile. But his expression turned more concerned when Skull failed to respond. “Are you alright? You look kinda pale.”

Skull could feel a slight shock from Kidd, the pirate urging him to get it together and he swallowed heavily. “I-- I’m fine. Let’s keep going, yeah?” He said with a shaky smile.

Joker looked like he didn’t believe him but gripped his shoulder. “Alright, but don’t push yourself too hard. You can lean on me if you need. I’m here for you.”

Skull smiled genuinely this time. “‘Course. Thanks, man.”

They made it back to the real world, time had passed and it was late afternoon. The school was still open. Ryuji stretched trying to will the exhaustion away for today, he still had time to check on Shiho.

“I’m gonna hang around here for a bit. Where will you go, Morgana?”

“Huh? I was thinking I could crash at your place.” Morgana laughed.

“What?! But my apartment doesn’t allow pets!”

“Gah! I am not a pet!”

“Aww, Morgana it’s alright.” Akira said, stroking him in an attempt to make him feel better.

“How about you, Akira? Could he stay with you?”

“Me? Uh, I’m not sure Sojiro would…”

“Don’t worry, Akira!” Morgana said, already hopping into his bag. “I’ll be on my best behavior, he won’t be able to resist my charm.”

“But, he runs a cafe…” Akira said, voice tinged with worry. 

“Hey.” Ryuji called out to Akira and grinned warmly at him. “I’m sure it’ll be fine but if not you can call me and… I’ll sneak him into my apartment, err, somehow.” Akira returned his grin with his own and waved as he set off for the train station.

Ryuji ran to Kamoshida’s office, he had to check there first, just in case. He gasped as he saw Kamoshida grab Shiho’s arm and try to drag her into his office while she was pleading for him to stop.

Ryuji sprinted as fast as he could and rammed into Kamoshida.

“S-Sakamoto?!” The bastard sputtered.

Ryuji reached out and held Shiho’s hand. “Come on, let’s go please!” When she nodded, he led her to the gates of the school. He skidded to a stop and rushed them both behind a corner. Kamoshida! How did he cut them off--? 

“I'll distract him. Try to sneak around him and get away from here.” He whispered to Shiho. She looked scared but nodded.

The moment Kamoshida spotted him, he stalked up to him, a sneer plastered on his face.

“Shit!” Ryuji thought Kamoshida would taunt him or something but he kept getting closer. Ryuji started to back away but the coach grabbed his collar before he could retreat.

“I just wanted to release some pent up frustration.”

“You’re sick.” Out of Ryuji’s peripheral vision he could spot Shiho sneaking behind Kamoshida. He focused a glare at Kamoshida, trying not to give her away.

“But I guess you’ll do, I should’ve broken your other leg too.” And he threw Ryuji to the ground.

Before Kamoshida could get any closer, he was suddenly shoved aside. “Ryuji! Are you alright? Can you stand?” His savior helped him up. “C’mon Shiho’s safe with Morgana.”

His savior was Akira! Ryuji ran with him while Kamoshida threatened them with expulsion by the next faculty meeting.

Once they were quite a distance away from the school and they saw Shiho safely to the train station, Ryuji gathered Akira in a big hug. “Dude! You are the best!”

“It was nothing.” Akira chuckled softly, pink lightly dusted on his cheeks.

“Wait a minute. What were you doing back at school?”

Morgana climbed onto Akira’s shoulder. “We spotted Mishima and he was acting fidgety. We confronted him and he admitted that he told Suzui to go to Kamoshida’s office. So we rushed back to check on the situation. And good thing we did!”

“No kidding, you two saved our necks! Thanks!”

“Don’t worry about it. I was worried when I saw him grabbing you, are you sure you’re alright?” Akira asked.

“Aww, I’m ok. No worse than taking a hit from a shadow.” Ryuji said, rubbing his arm which slightly hurt from landing harshly on the ground when Kamoshida threw him.

“But it seems we have a deadline now that Kamoshida will expel you two.” Morgana warned.

“Shit, sorry for dragging you into this, man.”

“Don’t apologize, you didn’t drag me into anything. I chose to help. I want to help.” Although his voice was soft, Ryuji could feel his determination.

“Hell yeah! Let’s change that bastard’s heart.”

Chapter Text

Ann was tailing Ryuji and Akira as they exited the school gates. They had earned the ire of Kamoshida and he’d most likely expel them judging by the coach’s mood. They were going to do something about Kamoshida. No one knew the reason for the coach’s agitation but she did.

Shiho had called her and told her what Kamoshida tried to do to her. Ann was filled with a fiery rage and nearly ran all the way to Shiho’s place to check on her. Shiho laughed, happier than she’s heard her in a long time and told her to save her strength for herself.

Shiho admitted she endured Kamoshida’s abuse in hopes of staying in the volleyball team. At this Ann, full of shame and guilt, told her how she dealt with Kamoshida’s unwanted advancements since he threatened to kick Shiho off the team. And she feared that her most recent rejection caused the coach to do what he did to Shiho.

She also told Ann that it was Ryuji and later the transfer student who helped her and that they’ll face expulsion if something didn’t happen soon. When they walked with Shiho to the train station, Ryuji even encouraged her to talk to her.

Ryuji… He was always the most vocal about hating Kamoshida, did he know something like this would happen? Everyone said that Ryuji threw the first punch and the coach injured his leg in self defense and Ann hasn’t kept up contact with him since then. She never got his side of the story.

Shiho asked if she could keep an eye on them and help them if she could. She was worried about them since they saved her but were going to be punished for it. Ann accepted, of course, on the condition that Shiho stayed far away from the bastard coach. If her parents start wondering why she was staying home ‘sick’ for a long time, Ann told her she could hide at her place because her parents were abroad. Shiho was thankful for her support and wished her luck.

And so Ann followed them to an alley where she heard the even voice of… a navigation app? She gasped and looked around wildly as her surroundings started wavering until the area got dark with a red sky. She didn’t have time to wonder what happened as she saw Ryuji and Akira walk away. They were in totally different clothes too, when did that happen?

The alley circled back to the school but… instead of a school it was a castle?! She couldn’t take it anymore and yelled out to them. “Ryuji! Akira!”

“Ehh?! Ann?! What are you doing-- Oh yeah…” Ryuji trailed off.

Ann panted as she caught up to them. “What’s with the strange clothes? And this castle?”

“Oh! Lady Ann! I’m--” The cat creature said before Ann interrupted.

“A monster cat!”

“Gah! I’m not! My name’s Morgana!”

Talking cat aside, Ann continued trying to get answers. “You still didn’t answer me. You guys… you’re doing something about Kamoshida, aren’t you?”

“Yeah, we are. We’re gonna change that scumbag’s heart. We’re gonna get expelled if we don’t do anything.” Ryuji said heatedly.

“Skull!” Morgana hissed.

Changing Kamoshida’s heart? What did that mean? Ann shook her head barely understanding that. “Let me come with you. You… you helped Shiho when that bastard almost… I want to help.”

“Ann…” Ryuji said softly.

“But it’ll be dangerous! You should go back to the real world.” Morgana said with a worried look.

Akira spoke up quietly. “But I was the same too. I couldn’t fully protect myself when I asked Ryuji to take me back here.”

They both looked at Ryuji who stammered at their expectant looks. “Eh? Me?” He said pointing a finger to himself. They nodded.

He crossed his arms and closed his eyes in thought. Then he sighed, “You’re just gonna find a way back here if we make you leave, ain’t ya?”

Well, of course she would, she’d never forgive Kamoshida and if this place could do something about him, she’d definitely come back to explore with or without them. “Yeah.” She said determinedly.

“...Fine. You can come with us.” He sighed, then he turned to Morgana who still had a worried expression. “This way we can keep an eye on and protect her. It’ll be fine, don’t worry.”

He gestured for her to follow. “We’ll explain as we go.”

On Mona’s suggestion, Skull took the front as he led them through the castle, he was in the middle and explaining what he could to Ann, and Joker held the back to make sure no Shadows got the jump on them.

As Skull thought about it, he should have known Ann would sneak in the metaverse with them today. He didn’t expect this soon but they did save Shiho. Ann always joins them after something happens with Shiho. Hopefully the two girls talked and Shiho wouldn’t do anything drastic.

He didn’t see any Shadows in the room they entered but then a few suddenly appeared in front of them.

“Stop, intruders! Wait, they have the princess! Quick, we must tell the King!” A Shadow yelled before transforming. Mona cursed as one of them was running away.

“Ah! Get rid of the one running away! Hurry!” Mona said urgently as he intercepted an imp-like Shadow that was going to attack them.

Joker and Skull aimed their guns but they gaped in shock as another Shadow blocked their shots. The defending Shadow fell and vanished but the other got away. They quickly destroyed the rest of the Shadows and retreated to a different hall.

“Should we keep exploring? That Shadow could call for reinforcement though.” Joker asked.

“Yeah, it said it would report to the palace ruler too. It would be dangerous to stay with the ruler on high alert. ...But I can sense a safe room nearby.” Mona hummed in thought.

“Yeah. Let’s go a little further to the safe room.” Skull nodded and they pushed forward.

He wanted to buy some time while they were still in the palace. How could they trigger an awakening in Ann? At first he let Ann join because he didn’t want Shadow Kamoshida to capture her like he usually did, but maybe he shouldn’t have? They’d find her and she’d awaken to her persona by the end of it anyway.

“Are we really going to leave?” Ann asked with a glower.

“Yup.” He grinned playfully at her narrowed eyes. “Geez, and I thought I rushed into everything head first. We’ll just take a day for the ruler to cool his jets and come back. We’ll make Kamoshida pay for everything he’s done. We’ll make sure he doesn’t do what he did to Shiho to anyone else. You don’t gotta worry about that.”

“Yeah, we’re not gonna stop here.” Joker reassured her.

Mona swished his tail as he puffed up. “Just a small, strategic retreat. Then business as usual. We are stylish thieves after all. We don’t face our opponents head on if we can help it.”

If Ann didn’t get her persona today, Skull thought about buying her sub machine gun she favored from the Airsoft shop, just like he did with Akira. He internally weeped for his wallet. How did Akira manage to buy all their equipment in previous loops? He’s gonna treat him to a beef bowl after this to show his appreciation, even if this current one didn’t know all he did for him and the team before.

They came up to a room with an obnoxious painting hung over a golden ‘X’ which had handcuffs on them. Hold up! Someone was attached to it--

“Shiho!?” Ann yelled, Joker managed to stop her before she got too far from them.

“That’s just a cognition, she isn’t real.” Joker narrowed her eyes at the cognition. “But this is how Kamoshida views her.” 

The cognition was in a playboy bunny outfit. Skull growled, he wished he could punch Kamoshida again. He couldn't wait to steal this bastard’s heart.

Ann growled too. “Kamoshida, why you...!” She turned to Mona. “Even if she’s fake, can’t we at least free her?” Before Mona could answer, a smarmy voice rang out.

“See that? How could you mistake her for my obedient princess?”

Shadow Kamoshida walked over to the cognition and looked down at them. “My princess would never go against me. She’d show her support especially when one of my bunnies needed punishment for running away.”

The bikini clad cognition of Ann appeared to hug Shiho from behind and with an unnatural amount of happiness, told her to be a good girl for her king.

“And that is how he sees me?” Ann asked angrily. “Who gives you the right to treat people like your toys?!”

“Hmph. Everyone is willing to turn a blind eye for me, to be trained by me. Your friend never said a word even after all I did. And she still isn’t worthy of being in my court.” The scumbag laughed.

“Are ya gonna let him keep talking like that?” Skull asked Ann.

“Shiho, was an idiot for letting this guy manipulate her but I am a bigger one for not doing anything about it. But still… Kamoshida! You have no right telling people how to live their lives!” She yelled before she grasped her head in pain.

“My… it’s been far too long.”

Urgh. Ann clutched her head. It felt like it’d explode.

Some Shadow guards appeared to defend the palace ruler.

“Forgiving him was never an option. Such is the scream from the you who dwells within. Finally, we can form a contract, I am thou…”

“Thou art I.” She glared at Kamoshida through the mask, then ripped off the mask and summoned her persona to burn her and Shiho’s cognitions.

“There you go, nothing can be solved by restraining yourself. Understand? Then I’ll gladly lend you my strength.”

The guards transformed while Skull, Joker, and Mona stepped forward so they were by her side ready to fight with her. She smiled and nodded to them feeling like she could take anyone on with them. “Let’s go!”

Ann panted as they finished off that disgusting Shadow that sat on a toilet. Kamoshida had run away while they were busy destroying his guard. “Kamoshida! Get back… here…” She collapsed to her knees. She felt so drained.

“Hey, let’s go back for now.” Skull reached out to help her stand up.

“But…”

Mona approached them. “I know you want to keep going but awakening your persona takes a lot out of you.”

“Yeah, and remember what Mona said. It’ll just be a strategic retreat. We’ll come back refreshed and get deeper through the Palace.” Joker said.

“Alright.”

Sojiro was kind enough to prepare Akira and Morgana some dinner before he left for the night after a day of exploring the Palace.

“I think Ryuji wants you to be our leader while we go through the Palace.” Morgana said in between bites of his tuna.

“Huh?! No, no. That's a lot of responsibility. Why would he want me to be the leader when he's the one who can use multiple personas? Also, recently he can tell if a vase is hiding some loot we can sell.” Akira noted.

“Hmm. You're right, he does have some good instincts like with Shiho, bringing you that toy gun that can be useful in the cognitive world, and bringing Lady Ann and she had the potential of a persona user.” 

“Oh!” Morgana stood up excitedly to Akira's surprise. “What do you say to giving him some positive reinforcements?”

Akira gave him an amused smile. “What kinda ‘positive reinforcements’?”

“Well…” Morgana told him his idea. “And don’t forget to tell Lady Ann as well!”

Then the not-cat invited him to build some lock picks and smoke bombs to help out their volunteered leader.

Ann studied her outfit and mask. Her outfit was different as well, Skull noted. She no longer had that chest window, she always complained about it in previous loops, so Skull guessed she got what she wanted in a way. Her outfit had sections of black along with the red that reminded him of Carmen. The black sections had red rose patterns on them, and her pants were half black with hearts on the sides.

She picked the codename ‘Panther’, it sounded powerful to her.

“Alright, time to get to that treasure!” Skull grinned at his fellow thieves at the entrance to Kamoshida’s Palace.

“Yes, Captain!” Joker and Mona responded happily. Panther looked over at them, lips tilted upward interest.

A red-hot blush appeared on Skull's face. He could feel Kidd beam at the use of his title. “Uh…” He could only stare at them numbly.

“Or would you prefer ‘leader’?” Panther said.

“What?!” Skull screeched. “Why me? That’s way too much responsibility!” He looked towards Joker who put out his hands and shook his head.

“You’ve known how bad Kamoshida was before this Metaverse stuff. That was how you were ready to help Shiho when you did, right?” Panther said softly.

Wha--?

“You’re able to wield different personas and you sometimes just have new ones we didn’t see you recruit. And you brought that gun for me, and it turned out more useful than we thought.” Joker nodded.

Huh?

“And your thief instincts are spot on! You’re in your element in this Palace.” Mona grinned.

Skull couldn’t help the cold sweat that was forming as they told him why they thought he would be a good leader. How did this happen?! He did some of those things because he just wanted to keep his friends safe! And he only knew what to do in some situations because he lived through it before. “That’s not…”

He saw their expectant looks from Panther to Mona and settled on Joker. He sighed, back in the usual loops they did technically shove the leader role onto Akira. Akira... he went through some tough shit as the leader of the Phantom Thieves. Akira has done so much for all of them. He’s always wanted to protect him if he had the chance. 

This was a new time loop, going in a totally different direction than usual, so…

...What could go wrong?

“Fine. But!” Skull wrapped an arm around Joker, “I’ll be counting on you as my right-hand man, Joker! I know I get real excited sometimes and bite off more than I can eat so don’t be afraid to call me out on my bullshit, alright?”

Joker’s surprise settled into a small smile with a strong look in his eyes and nodded. “Sure!”

Chapter Text

They were running through the halls as the Palace crumbled around them. Skull yelped as his leg gave out and he hit the ground with a harsh thud. Damn, why did his leg always give out here?

“Skull!” Joker called out in alarm. He turned back, ready to go and help him.

“I’m fine!” Skull yelled, gesturing with one hand for Joker to keep going. Skull punched his leg and willed it to stay strong as he got up to follow behind Joker, Panther and Mona.

Their surroundings shimmered from the creepy castle back to the alley near Shujin.

“Phew, we made it.” Ann huffed, catching her breath.

“Where-- What happened to the treasure?” Akira asked, he looked around for the gaudy crown.

“I got it! The treasure is as good as safe in these paws!” Morgana said with a pleased little laugh, showing off a gold medal as best he could with his cat form. Not a crown in sight.

Akira frowned and kneeled down to take a closer look. “That’s the treasure? Wasn’t it a crown?”

“More cognitive stuff.” Ryuji mumbled under his breath.

“That’s right, Captain! You catch on fast.” Morgana let Akira take the medal so he could look at it, Ann leaned over to see it too. They didn’t see Ryuji bashfully scratch his cheek, he still couldn’t believe his offhanded comments, just like some of his actions were being mistaken as good thief instincts.

“The crown is what Kamoshida thought of it, this medal is as good as a crown to him. It is the source of his power and authority over the school.”

:Ugh, it is true Kamoshida won a gold medal at the Olympics and he wouldn’t let anyone forget it.” Ann grumbled but then she covered her mouth, eyes wide in concern. “Wait a minute! It isn’t the real one is it? It’d be bad if someone found us with it!”

“Don’t worry it’s a copy from the metaverse. The real one should still be with Kamoshida.” Morgana nodded, quelling her fears.

“So… what do we do with it?” Akira asked, flipping the medal in his hands, fake or not, it’s still a splendid medal. He’s never seen an Olympic medal up close before.

Ryuji’s stomach grumbled as he remembered where this led to. He grinned, hardly containing his drool. “Let’s sell the effing thing and celebrate with a feast!”

“Oh! And we know just the place to sell it, right?” Morgana flashed a toothy grin at Ryuji and Akira.

“Alright, you take care of that and I’ll figure out some places we can go to depending on how much you get. Ann said with a delighted smile, thinking of the great places they could celebrate.

“Aw yeah!” Ryuji did a windmill stretch, despite reliving eating at the buffet over and over, nothing beats celebrating the start of the Phantom Thieves together over wonderful food.

Ann waved goodbye and left to see Shiho.

Akira gave the medal to Ryuji and let Morgana climb into his bag.

As they walked, Akira nudged him lightly with a proud smile. “We did really well thanks to you. All the new persona you got really helped cover for us.”

“Uh, thanks.” Ryuji blushed, still not used to this Captain business. 

Ryuji rubbed the back of head in embarrassment as he thought of his personas. Best not to tell Akira how he panicked as Igor and the wardens took Captain Kidd and Pixie to teach him about their execution style fusions. He could vaguely feel Captain Kidd and even though the pirate reassured him that even if he’s gone, he’ll still be a part of him, Ryuji went ahead and got him back from Justine.

Man, fusing personas for good skills on ‘em was so effin complicated. He had no idea what he was doing, honestly he got lucky the moves he chose to pass on to the new persona were useful.

Akira’s expression fell slightly, mistaking Ryuji’s embarrassment as being uncomfortable. “If you want me to stop calling you captain, I can, just tell me.”

“Nah, it’s no big deal, really. Just need to get used to it.” 

As soon as Ryuji reassured him, Akira let out a soft breath of relief. But then he quickly put on a sly smirk, leaned in close and purred, “Thank you, Captain.”

Ryuji squeaked, he’s definitely not used to being called captain when Akira says it like that, his voice all deep and smooth.

He pouted as Akira chuckled, no longer leaning in so close. Well, at least Akira was enjoying himself.

When they were close to the Airsoft shop, Akira’s phone started ringing. “Huh? Uh, Ok, sure.” It was Sojiro, calling him to help out around the store.

“That was the boss, huh? We better go, we want to stay in his good graces after all.” Morgana said. Ryuji has no worries about that, Sojiro always warms up to Akira eventually.

Akira turned to Ryuji, face soft and apologetic. “Sorry, Ryuji.”

“It’s cool, dude. Just make sure, he knows when we’re celebrating!” He laughed, causing Akira to smile a bit. They waved goodbye, to do what they needed to.

Hmmm, Akira working at the cafe reminded Ryuji of all the coffees his leader would make to perk them up during long trudges in the Metaverse. Ugh, he was the leader in this loop, he should prepare just like that. He could even make coffee too. Ryuji sighed wistfully, thinking of the times Akira patiently taught him how to make coffee after countless attempts in a previous loop.

The medal sold for a good amount, enough for the fancy buffet Ann wanted to go to. She invited Shiho to eat with them as well, to celebrate her tormentor finally getting just desserts. 

Shiho was also sharp though. She heard of the rumors of the Phantom Thieves, their calling card and Kamoshida’s sudden change of heart. She was able to put two and two together. Although Ann’s acting when Shiho asked her about it didn’t help any.

The added company made the buffet more interesting and fun. Listening to her reactions as they told her of their deeds in the Metaverse. Food really did taste better when eating together.

As much as he loved the wonderful food at this buffet, Ryuji glared at all the posh, rich people who looked down at them for being normal kids.

Especially that smug, bastard politician. Ryuji growled at him as he went into the elevator. He’ll get what’s coming to him soon enough.

“Ugh.” Akira grimaced and clutched his head, the politician’s voice familiar to him.

“Dude, you ok?” Ryuji asked, Akira would usually play it down with a ‘it’s nothing.’ 

“Y-yeah. It’s just… he seems familiar. I think I met him before.” Oh! Akira’s opening up a bit more!

“Oh, yeah? Do you remember where?” While it’d be cool if he remembered, the ship Palace was way outta their league for now. They’d just get their asses handed to them.

Akira hummed but became sullen as he couldn’t quite remember clearly. Guess he couldn’t quite remember. Ryuji slung an arm around him and quickly soothed him. “Aww, it's alright, no rush. Are you really in a hurry to remember that piece of shit?” He laughed playfully at Akira’s grimace.

Morgana popped his head out of Akira’s bag. “He was so rude! But let’s not dwell on him too much. Let’s go back to Lady Ann and Shiho, gentlemen shouldn’t keep women waiting, after all.”

Ann also met her fair share of rude people but it also solidified their ideals for the Phantom Thieves, to help those who were suffering and give them hope. And that marked the start of the Phantom Thieves.

It was a few days after their celebration at the buffet. Ryuji woke up from a nightmare, or more like a memory of a past loop where they were ambushed and hopelessly outmatched by the Reaper. A way too powerful Shadow that lurks in Mementos. It-- It killed everyone, leaving him for last.

He didn’t try to stop it when it pointed its gun at him and that was when he woke up, shaking and covered in sweat. He needed air to clear his mind so he went to sit at a bench in an empty part of the park.

He never thought too deeply on the loops; what happened when he or the team died in one? What happened when they drove Akira back home and the loop restarted? Did it continue somehow? Did it continue even when a team member died? Those questions would pop up and eat away at him. 

So he chose not to think about it and live the moment looking for a way to break free of these loops. But if the loops did continue and one of the thieves died… he wouldn’t let that happen and strove to protect them with his life, he’d just wake up in a new loop after all. Captain Kidd berated him for that.

But there were always times when memories of the loops catch up to him and leave him a mess. Morgana would just call him an idiot for spacing out  and he’d didn’t have to explain something they’d never believe.

Ryuji didn’t notice the rain until he was drenched. He should go home before he gets sick but the rain felt nice and the sound of raindrops was soothing. He was still a little shaken up, it took a bit longer to sort out what happened in this loop.

Then, as always, in his times of need, Akira showed up with an umbrella, shielding them both from the rain. Akira… Ever dependable, a leader worth going to hell and back for, and always surrounded with the familiar, calming scent of coffee.

Ryuji hugged Akira, inhaling the sweet scent of coffee to help bring home that Akira and presumably the rest of the Phantom Thieves were alright.

Akira woke up to light snoring and blearily opened his eyes to find himself cuddling a sleeping Ryuji. He looked so much more relaxed than when he found him in the park yesterday.

Akira saw Ryuji drenched in the heavy rain and up close, his eyes were red and puffy as if he was crying. Then he suddenly hugged him tight like he was afraid he’d disappear if he let go. That made Akira’s heart ache. What happened to shake up Ryuji like that?

He also didn’t miss the way Ryuji seemed confused for a moment when Morgana called him ‘leader’ and gently berated him for staying out in the rain before letting Ryuji know they were available to talk to if he needed.

Akira couldn’t leave Ryuji alone in that state, so he invited him over. Ryuji tried to brush it off as no big deal but he wasn’t going to fall for it. Ryuji… when they decided he was the leader, Ryuji trusted him to watch his back and call him out on his bullshit. So he did and Akira was happy to have convinced Ryuji to tell him what was going on today after he woke up.

He carefully got up without waking Ryuji, but Morgana's ear twitched from the soft rummaging of the bed covers. Morgana followed him downstairs, and they started wondering what Ryuji would tell them. Whatever was weighing down their leader didn’t seem like something to be taken lightly.

Akira decided to make Ryuji some coffee and curry. It'd be good practice to test out what Sojiro taught him and good food to talk over, just like all the other times Ryuji invited him for ramen or beef bowl.

The smell of coffee and curry filled Leblanc. Morgana stretched and relaxed on one of the stools near the counter and enjoyed the homey scent.

“Smells great!” Ryuji said cheerfully as he climbed down the stairs.

“Ryuji!” Akira waved to him when he sat down on a stool next to Morgana. “Here, Sojiro taught me this recipe. But I thought of putting my own twist to it and giving it some flair.”

“O-oh! Can’t wait!” F-flair? Uh-oh, whenever Akira mentioned that around food, it usually meant spicy beyond belief. Morgana didn’t miss how tense Ryuji suddenly became.

But! He wasn’t one to deny anything Akira made for him! With the enthusiasm of getting ready at the starting line right before the starting pistol’s fire, Ryuji dug in and ate a large spoonful of Akira’s curry and rice.

Mrrgh! There were some things that stay the same in loops and this was one of them. Ryuji’s tongue felt like it was on fire. But he dug deep to finish off his plate and downed a cup of water like no tomorrow. What a way to wake up in the morning.

Akira gave Morgana a small bowl with pieces of meat that was cooked in the curry. But Morgana suffered the same plight as he took his first bite.

“It’s spicy as hell, dude!” Akira frowned then took a bite… after a beat, he seemed unaffected. What the eff? 

The smug shit actually smirked at him. “It’s not as spicy as what I usually had in my hometown.” Gah, so this Akira had a taste for spicy food.

Ryuji huffed, he just can’t win against him. He held out his plate for more, which surprised Akira. He frowned in concern. “You don’t have to force yourself. I can make another batch and follow the recipe.”

“It’s fine, it’s just spicy. But you made it, so how could I not like it?” Akira felt his cheeks heat up and it wasn’t because of the spice. How could he say that so easily?

“W-well, I’ll take your offer of normal recipe curry. My tongue is sensitive...” Morgana said, glumly looking at the plate in front of him.

“Of course, Morgana.” Akira reached out to pet Morgana and then went to prepare another batch.

“Hey, if there’s leftovers we can save them for Metaverse stuff.” Ryuji said.

“Oh yeah! Good thinking. We could revitalize ourselves on food while we train in or explore Mementos and save the stronger medicines for when we really need them.” Morgana nodded.

After Akira made some curry Morgana could enjoy and brewed coffee which sadly Ryuji didn’t enjoy the bitterness of, he joined them to eat curry. Akira mentally strove to make a cup of coffee Ryuji could enjoy.

Eventually Akira decided to bite the bullet and asked, “So Ryuji, what happened yesterday?”

“Uh, nightmare...” Ryuji's eyes darted to him then back to his plate repeatedly, he seemed to want to say more but bring himself to.

“About..?” Morgana tried to get him to continue.

“The Reaper, it uh…” 

Akira knew where this would go. Was that why Ryuji hugged him tightly? To reassure himself that he was still alive? “We’re alright, Ryuji. We haven’t even encountered the Reaper. And we’re not gonna let that happen.” Akira would reassure him as much as he needed but he got a gut feeling that this wasn’t all that was bothering him though.

“But it did happen! It did..!” It did happen in a previous loop, he felt so guilty when he woke up in the loop after that one, he almost didn’t ‘accidentally’ take Akira into the Metaverse for the first time.

“It may have just been a realistic nightmare, Ryuji. It's nothing to beat yourself up about--” Morgana started.

“It ain’t realistic, it did happen! I know ‘cause I’ve been living this year who knows how many times!” Ryuji slammed a fist to the counter with a frustrated yell. He was just so tired, tired of reliving this year over and over again, tired of building friendships only to have them erased, tired of watching his friends suffer or even die, he’s tired of dying countless times.

“What..?” Ryuji heard Akira breathe out. Shit . Did he say that out loud? It’s still the beginning of the year, Akira would think he’s crazy and avoid him and it would break his heart if that happened. Akira was his best friend, and over the repeated years always managed to make him feel free and damn it, he couldn’t keep his heart from falling for him--

“Hey! Ryuji!” Akira gripped his shoulders, keeping Ryuji from crumpling in on himself. “Is that true? Living through the year, dying countless times? I-- no, I don’t think you’re lying so I’ll trust you.” Before they fell asleep the night before, he vowed to support Ryuji however he could and that meant trusting him on this. Ryuji was always there for him. But if he was telling the truth then what he said… How did he not go crazy?

“But if you lived this year before then you would have been the leader of the Phantom Thieves before, right? How come you seem so uncomfortable with us calling you Captain or Leader?” Morgana asked.

“Cause I wasn’t the leader.” Akira and Morgana let out a shocked sound. “It was Akira and I was the Charge Commander and even then, that was something I made up.” 

“...Do you really believe me?” Ryuji sounded hesitant like he was putting up guards in case they betrayed his trust and he got hurt. Did that happen before too? Akira wished he could shake his previous self for hurting Ryuji like that.

“Yes, I do, Ryuji. I believe you.” Akira tried to sound as firm and determined as he could, trying to express that he’d believe him and do what it took to help free him from his suffering.

Ryuji gave him the same look he did the night before, full of affection and adoration, like he hung the very stars and moon in the sky. And just like then, it made his heart race.

“Don’t forget me! As a gentleman, I’ll help any friend in need!” Morgana said.

“Heh, you guys are the best.” Ryuji gathered them in a tight hug. Once he calmed down Ryuji looked like the weight of the world was off his shoulders. “So… you’ll be the leader again, right Akira?”

“Uh, no.” Akira said flatly.

“What??” Ryuji squeaked out.

“Did the previous Akiras have that power of yours to have multiple personas?” When Ryuji nodded he continued. “But you have it now, so it’s fine, nothing to worry about, Captain.”

Ryuji scowled more to himself than at anyone. “But… I’m not-- I ain’t cut out to be a leader.”

“Did Akira in a previous iteration bring Ryuji with him to the Palace armed with a gun he could use to defend himself?” Morgana asked.

“No, but--”

“Did Akira bring Ann to the Palace so she wouldn’t sneak in on her own and that she could Awaken to her persona?”

“No--”

“There, you made different decisions than Akira did and knowing what you know and those decisions worked out fine! You’ll be fine. And don’t forget we’re a team, we’ll be there for you.” Morgana nodded with a proud posture.

“Wow, Morgana… Thanks.”

They sat quietly letting all the new information sink in until Ryuji acknowledged their curious looks. “You know you can ask me stuff to prove I remember them from previous loops.”

“N-no. I said I believed you…” Akira looked away, embarrassed. Morgana also looked away just as guiltily.

“Yeah and you’re about as curious as a cat.” Ryuji laughed and got up to walk behind the counter. He started to rummaging about and Akira figured he was going to make a cup of coffee. “It’s fine. ...I’ll leave a tip for Boss since I’m using the beans without permission.”

“You taught me your favorite cup of coffee.” Ryuji will never admit he was the one who asked so that one day he could make it for Akira.

As they waited for the blend to heat up Akira hesitantly asked, “Ryuji, w-would you rather have a more leader-like Akira in this loop instead of--”

“Hell no.” Akira looked surprised at the instant answer. His eyes widened when he saw Ryuji grinning at him, his expression soft and warm.

“Sure there’s lots of parts the same about you in the loops but there’s small differences that make each one stand out. ...It’s kinda something I look forward to finding out.

“Like one was quieter than the rest, snarkier, sassier, loves working at the flower shop, not to mention you! You got a whole new outfit, you love spicy shit and you’re opening up faster than usual. You’re usually so reserved and kinda keep to yourself, especially in the beginning. I know it's tough with all the rumors flying about you. It makes me really happy to see you getting more confident and being yourself more.”

Akira felt his cheeks heat up. How could he say things like that so easily?

Ryuji presented the freshly made coffee and Akira quickly grabbed it to distract himself. It smelled amazing and the first sip warmed him to his soul, the acidity and bitterness was just right. It was delicious. He could understand why this blend was his favorite. Although, even if this wasn’t his favorite, it would be because Ryuji made it for him.

Chapter Text

Morgana, Ryuji and Akira were heading to meet up with Ann at Shibuya Station. Morgana decided that they could use today to introduce the team to Mementos. He peeked out of Akira’s bag, quietly staring at Ryuji. When he asked Ryuji and Akira about Mementos and while it confused Akira, their leader knew it was everyone’s palace. He supposed he shouldn’t have been surprised after their leader told them he’s been through this year countless times.

Ryuji was understandably nervous about telling Ann about the timeloops. But he needed to keep up hope that his team would believe in him. And he had nothing to fear, he and Akira will back him up as well. Their support managed to cheer him up.

With all the knowledge of what could happen this year, Morgana wanted to ask if one day, he’ll be human. But he couldn’t bring himself to ask. I-It wasn’t because he was afraid that the answer was he wasn’t actually human! He was just… has confidence in his being is all. He didn’t need Ryuji to tell him.

Morgana shook his head to shake off the doubts. Akira must have felt that and stopped to check on him. “Morgana?”

“Nothing! Nothing. Are we there yet?” 

Akira chuckled. “Yup, just need to find Ann.”

“Hey! There she is!” Ryuji waved excitedly at them, then he gaped in surprise. “Shiho?!”

“She insisted on coming with us, right Shiho?” Ann said.

Shiho nodded and looked down for a moment as if to steel herself. Then she spoke up, “I heard from Ann how you fought in a strange place to cause that change of heart in Kamoshida. The way you never gave up when backed into a corner by Kamoshida and battled against him. It inspired me, all I did was wait while you guys did all the work. I… I want to find that kind of strength too, not just to help out but for myself too.”

“Shiho…” Ann whispered. She turned to Ryuji, “She can join us for whatever Morgana had planned for us, fight? You mentioned it was Metaverse stuff. Don’t worry about her safety, I’ll protect her. Maybe she’ll awaken to a persona even, like I did.”

Morgana popped out of Akira’s bag, “hmm, before that, I think Ryuji has something to tell you.”

“Wha– Hey! I ain’t prepared yet!” Ryuji whispered harshly to Morgana but the non-cat just gave him a smug cat grin.

Akira placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled warmly. Ryuji smiled back, took a breath and explained how he’s been reliving the year over and over again.

Ann and Shiho were quiet for a moment before Ann spoke up, “That… doesn’t sound like your usual claims, like thinking you were psychic that one time–”

“Hey!”

“But I’ve known you since middle school, I don’t think you’re lying,” Ann looked to Shiho who nodded in return. “Alright, it’s a lot to wrap my head around but I believe and Shiho does too. 

“Oh! Is this where Shiho will get her to awaken to a Persona?” Ann asked eagerly.

“Don't bad things happen when you learn of future events in movies, though?” Shiho noted with a laugh.

“Oh-oh.” Ann said, excitement drained away.

“Uh…” Ryuji scratched the back of his head. “Well, Shiho never really joined in any of the previous loops.”

“What?! What do you mean?!” Ann gasped.

“Uh, apparently things went a little differently in his previous loops.” Akira said. “Said I was the leader, don’t know why, though. I think that’s a lot of responsibility. But Ryuji’s handling it fine!” Akira had a big, somewhat sly smile that made Ryuji think he’s just fine with all the leader shit being hoisted on him instead.

Ryuji hmmed as he squinted at him. Then he turned back at them to explain what Kamoshida had done in the first loop and some previous loops when he wasn’t fast enough to get between the coach and Shiho.

“Grr! That bastard!” Ann growled. “Glad we changed his heart!”

“So that’s how you knew to find me. It's scary to hear what the previous me went through, but I’m glad you saved me this time and previous times presumably. But… It only makes me want to help you out more, if I can, please.” Shiho said, voice quiet but strong.

“Heh, ‘course you can! It’s new and exciting! Maybe new stuff is what was needed for ending the loops.” Ryuji grinned and gave her a thumbs up which she returned happily.

“Alright, then!” Morgana piped in, “Now that we got that settled, let’s pick a target and head into Mementos. I’ll explain more as we go in and Lady Shiho can hear me.”

—

Ryuji winced as Akira bandaged up his wounds he got from taking a hit for him. They were huddled up in a safe room. Right after leaving the room Nakanohara’s Shadow was in, they were ambushed by Shadows. Ann and Morgana protected Shiho but drained themselves casting skills a bit too much. They weren't harmed, Akira was alright too and they got a clue about their next Yusuke’s sensei, so he’s happy.

Akira seemed unhappy though, or more like… concerned? Akira was done bandaging up his arm but kept his hands over the bandages, staring unfocused on his injury. Ryuji moved his arm a little to grab his attention. “Uh, you ok dude?”

“Huh? It’s just…” Akira bit his lip. “You didn’t have to protect me. I could’ve taken it.” Ryuji couldn’t help but smile, there was Akira’s protective side. Ryuji might've believed that if he had his wildcard powers but right now Akira seemed more agile than enduring like Captain Kidd.

But Ryuji knew how he felt, he’d get upset when Akira protected him in previous loops. He chuckled. “Sorry, but I can’t help it. I protected you anytime I could in other loops, it’s in my bones.”

“Ryuji…” Akira whined, forgetting about codenames for a second. He was blushing madly.

—

Shiho gave a can of Arginade to Ann and Morgana. Ann told her that some of the drinks from vending machines could perk them up in the Metaverse and help them fight longer. So she picked some up in case they needed it. They gratefully drank them.

Shiho was happy to help even a little but seeing them fight first hand was something else. Standing up to these Shadows to stop their terrible ways or taking an injury for a friend, she wished to be able to fight with all that supernatural power with that kind of conviction.

Hopefully one day but for now she watched as Akira tended to Ryuji’s wounds with gentle care with the rest of the peanut gallery. “They’re pretty close aren’t they?” She whispered to Ann.

“I think they could be closer, wanna be their wingwoman with me and help them out?” Ann said slyly. Shiho had to laugh at that but agreed nonetheless. They looked very cute together. 

From what Ann had told her about them, Akira wanted to be smooth like his persona but Ryuji always managed to pull his dorky side out and Ryuji can be hot-tempered and a little reckless but Akira helped rope it in. Although Ryuji seemed a bit more mellowed out than what she remembered of him from middle school, probably from living through this year repeatedly for so long.

—

After recovering for a bit in the safe room they headed down a bit further, they had another target besides Nakanohara, Shiho picked him. Seemed someone was taking advantage of girls trying to get into the modeling industry.

Ryuji thought he sounded a bit like another Kamoshida and believed Shiho wanted to confront someone like that. He had no problem helping with that. Although, maybe he should’ve brought some kind of weapon for her, like Akira and Ann so she can really fight back against scumbags. He gave her one of his spare guns.

However, their target seemed a bit too much like Kamoshida, giving her a leering sneer when she told him to stop his terrible ways. His Shadow transformed into an owl-man like creature and casted Marin Karin.

“Shit!” Ryuji cursed and tried to block it so the spell wouldn’t hit Shiho. He saw Akira manage to dodge it and Morgana got hit but seemed entirely unaffected. He became confused as he was unaffected either.

Ryuji yelped as a whip struck him.

“Panther?!” Ryuji gasped as he realized Ann was brainwashed. “Hey! Snap out of it!”

Akira turned to Ryuji, “don’t worry, me and Mona will distract Panther. Protect Shiho and take care of the target.

“Gotcha.” 

—

The Shadow taunted Shiho who froze, laughing about all the things he’d do to her and Ann when he dealt with the boys.

Ryuji cursed, this guy was lusting all over them just like Kamoshida and he managed to brainwash Ann, it must be hard on Shiho. But… maybe this was the push she needed to awaken… “Don’t let him get to you, you can do this. You can stand up to him and save Ann.” 

Ryuji tensed as he summoned reinforcements, Succubi were starting to close in on them.

Shiho swallowed and tightened her grip on the handle of her gun. “You’re right, no more hiding behind someone else, this time I’ll fight–” She gasped and clutched at her head.

Visions of what you desire are clear to you. Are you ready to take matters into your own hands? Despite overwhelming opposition, despite your fears?  

“Yes.” She breathed out. A grated, knight-like mask with light blue accents appeared on her face.

Then let us make a contract and walk this path together. I am thou, thou art I.

“Let’s do this, Jeanne D'Arc!” Shiho ripped off her mask and summoned her Persona. Shiho became clad in a matching knight outfit and was now armed with a spear. The band holding her ponytail was decorated with two metal pieces that resembled the metal part of the spear and kinda looked like rabbit ears. 

“Let’s go, Skull!” Shiho yelled as she casted Garu on the Succubi to knock them down. Then she blasted them away with a Mafeila.

“Hell yeah!”

—

Akira apologized under his breath as he used Dream Needle to make Ann sleep without hurting her too much. Morgana did a good job grabbing her attention so he could sneak up on her.

They gently lowered her to the ground when he got a successful hit on her. Then a burst of energy erupted from the other side of the room. It was a familiar energy…

Akira and Morgana smiled at each other, it was an awakening.

Ryuji and Shiho defeated the Shadow quickly and that snapped Ann out of her status condition. She grumbled awake, clutching her head, a little dazed but back to normal.

“Ann!” Shiho said happily as Ryuji helped her over to the agi-user. She was exhausted as per usual after an awakening but she still wanted to make sure Ann was ok.

Ann looked up then gasped delightedly, “Shiho! You got a Persona!?” She quickly got up to hug her. “Aww, can’t believe I missed it!”

“Don’t worry… I’ll tell you about it…” Ann felt Shiho sag in her hold.

“Let’s go home and we can talk about this later.” Ann looked to the rest of the team.

“No arguments here!” Ryuji agreed.

Morgana transformed and they safely left Mementos.