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  April 10th, 7:32 pm
  Shibuya Station

  ---Music: Tokyo Emergency---

Life has continued moving on for the city, that's for sure. Despite the high profile state of affairs going on in Koridai, those walking the streets have long since returned to their daily routines. In fact, things are so busy, I happen to have gotten separated from the others during one particular rush of people. We were trying to board one of the trains back home, and while some of us made it, the doors closed on the rest of us. Looks like Yusuke, Ryuji, and I are all out of luck and have to wait for the next train.
Ryuji kicks his leg in frustration. "Man! This is friggin' embarrassing!" he vents.
Yusuke contrasts the frustration with his own calmness. "It's actually a little amusing, in my opinion. There is a certain sense of beauty to the unpredictability of life."
I notice that my bag feels lighter. "Looks like Morgana hopped out and followed the others, too."
A vibration in my pocket tells me that the others are reaching out.

Ann: Yikes. Sorry. Didn't know we were so late that the doors were going to close on you.
Futaba: Morgana is telling me to tell you he blames Ryuji.
Ryuji: I was thirsty and had to buy a soda, sorry!!
Haru: Shall we all meet up back at Leblanc?
Makoto: You shouldn't be too far behind us if you take the next train.
Yusuke: Then it's settled. We will see you there.

I change from my messaging app to my internet browser and go back to reading an article I was checking out. It's one of many news columns published dealing with local politics, particularly the vote on the new law that happened earlier. As it's such a recent event, details are still coming in hot, but the speediest journalists are already compiling what information in available. Here, I find myself looking at a list of who voted for and against the tariff being enacted.
As I browse, Ryuji and Yusuke seem to be talking about a new movie that came out, though I'm not paying too much attention, as the information in front of me is what has my focus. It's rather distracting in the busy subway tunnels with all of the people and noise. It brings back memories of trying to read through all of those books on the train to school.
Well, normally it wouldn't be as hard to concentrate as it is now, because there is some kind of big shot coming out of one of the many train cars with a few bodyguards, and they are making a bit of a scene. "Looks like we arrived ahead of schedule," one of the guys in suits says, I think.

---(Music End)---

I'm nearing the end of the list within the article, which has been alphabetical by family name. At virtually the same exact moment that I hear the name Yokubō, I read the same name. Yokubō, Kigeki. One of the politicians who voted in favor of the tariff. This might be a fortunate situation, and I nonchalantly attempt to listen in on the person and their guards. Since I'm trying to use my peripheral vision, I can't immediately tell which one is the politician, because they are all wearing black suits. It couldn't hurt to listen in a little in hopes they say anything interesting, right?

---Music: Suspicious People ---

"Whooooo boy, what a stressful day!" one of them exhales in an almost comical tone. His voice is a little squeaky, almost. I try to look at little more closely at the crowd of people without making my intentions obvious, and upon closer inspection, the one who just talked with the funny voice definitely stands out from the rest of them. His suit is pure white as if he were going to a wedding. On top of that, he has white hair that comes out in wavy lines like a mad scientist. The group begins whispering far too quietly for me to hear from the distance I'm at, so I casually walk a bit closer.
It's been a while since I've tried doing this, but my special senses should come back to me if I give it a shot. I try to use the special ability I possess, and the world around me darkens as I gain the sensation of having a third eye. In this state, it's much easier to hone my focus towards the group specifically, and I begin to hear their hushed conversation.
"You should be able to rest and relax, now that things are quieting down," one of the others tells him. "I'm sure your associates will be pleased with today's outcome, as well."
"Ain't that the truth," the white hair nods his head, "I'll finally have some good news to bring for once. This plan already seems to be working in our favor."
"Are you certain it's a smart idea to scheme behind his back like this?" one of them asks.
"He's got delusions of grandeur," the man brushes off, "But it's easy to get on his good side. And soon I'll be the one calling the shots."
"As long as you are comfortable brown nosing, sir," one of them replies with a straight face.
"Oh, don't say it that way. I'm just riding on his status to gain more influence. It'll all work out. But, hey, can I have a drink?"

---(Music End)---

"Your water, sir," another guard speaks up, handing Yokubō a bottle.
  "Thanks, man!" he returns amiably, and he wastes no time gulping down a huge portion of the drink. "I sure hope we can get this meeting over with quick. My wife and daughter are expecting me for dinner."
As he prepares to leave the boarding platform to head up the stairs, I've already made my decision to follow him. They said way too many suspicious things to ignore.

---Music: Restlessness---

  My vision and focus feel laser guided while I'm in my third eye state, and I notice something peculiar. There's a glowing object on Kigeki Yokubō's side, perhaps something in his pocket. For it to have a bright, golden aura, it must be something crucial. I was granted this power of observation from the Velvet Room, so some force at work must be telling me the importance of this object.
Another train arrives at the station, and a crowd of people begin rushing towards the doors, and soon I'm within a sea of people. This could be my chance to get close without being noticed.
I dance my way through the crowd, slipping through gaps like an eel. In a matter of moments I'm nearly standing next to the politician and his bodyguards. In one swift, fluid motion, I reach into Yokubō's pocket and snatch the item from him, without being seen.
It's a checkbook... hmm. This is an important enough item that he'll definitely notice if the whole thing goes missing. Thinking quickly, I tear a single check from the book. I'm sure he won't miss one little check. Now, to get it back to him.
"Sir, you dropped this!" I call innocently. The people immediately surrounding me turn towards me, including Yokubō and his guards. I hold out the checkbook in plain sight.
He squints his eyes and looks at the book for a moment He double checks his own pocket and must recognize that his checkbook is no longer there, and the one that I'm holding is his. "Thank you, young man!" he smiles, taking it back. Bam. In and out with him none the wiser. I don't exactly know what I can learn from a check, but I'll certainly hang on to this and show the others later.
I feel a hand grab my shoulder. "Akira!" Yusuke calls to me, "You're going to miss the train if you don't hurry."
As I'm dragged back by my friend, I see the politician slowly leave my sight. With that, I'm on the train, and the doors slide closed. The train starts up, and leaves the station.

---(Music End)---

"Now heading to, Aoyama Itchome," I hear the automated voice announce.
Wait.
"Yusuke... did you lead us onto a train going in the opposite direction...?" Ryuji asks with hesitation.
"What? They told us to get on the next train," Yusuke returns.
Ryuji sighs heavily. "You can be so oblivious sometimes, dude."
"But... I thought for certain..." Yusuke mumbles, and his voice trails off as he recognizes his mistake.
I chuckle. "I guess we'll ride this one out and turn around at the next stop."
Yusuke looks at me. "Akira? Who was that man you stole from?" he asks, with directness so blunt it nearly knocks me over.

---Music: Residents of Fog ~ Suspicious People---

  Yusuke is certainly the type of person with a sharp enough eye to notice my pickpocketing yet naive enough to get his trains mixed up. I 'shhhh' him to quiet down, and thankfully no one else on the train heard what he just said.
"That was Kigeki Yokubō. I noticed he was one of the politicians who voted for the tariff law we were talking about today," I explain quietly, leaning in closer to lower my voice even further, "He was talking about some sort of plan and using someone's name to gain influence. It all sounded really shady."
"That a fact?" Ryuji speaks, entering the conversation. "Man, I'd be surprised if we found another lead so quickly. It's almost too convenient!"
I hold my chin in thought. "If this really is on a grand scale like Shido's ambitions were, it wouldn't surprise me if there's a network of involved individuals all in on something secret."
"We have dealt with sizable conspiracies before," Yusuke points out, "Our eyes and ears have essentially been trained to notice things such as these."
"I've been searching for more info on him in the meantime," I add, still looking at my phone, "And check this out. Yokubō is in a picture here from a newspaper run a few months back. And guess who he's with?"
I hold up my phone to show the other two, and their eyes widen. Yusuke gently grabs the phone to angle it closer to himself as I hold it. "That's the military man from before...!"
"Yep. It's Momus Melpomene," I concur, "And Kigeki Yokubō seems to be facilitating a meeting between him and this other person. He's holding both of their forearms as they shake hands."
The person we speak of is a young woman, rather on the tall side and of about equal height to Kigeki. She has snow-white hair that has a single strand of striped silver accenting her look. Her hair as a whole, which is slicked back so it looks formal in the front, extends from the base of her neck in sporadic spines, making it look a tad messy in the back. Yet, her appearance is clearly under her control, as the sheen of her hair suggests that it's been gelled. She's wearing a suit as well, which is a very bland shade of grey. Overall, she looks very professional, though her hair gives her a certain aura of whimsy. She's smiling lightly in the picture, as is Momus, but both of their smiles pale in comparison to Kigeki as his teeth are on full display, ear to ear.
"It says her name is Yashin Yokubō," Yusuke reads aloud, "She must be related to this Kigeki character."
"And we may have hit the jackpot with this guy," Ryuji grins.
"Is that so?" Yusuke prods with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, think about it this way," he explains, "If this guy was dumb enough to be openly talking about secret plans in public, he's probably going to be a good source of information if we can find him and investigate some more."
I reach into my pocket to feel the stolen possession to make sure I still had it with me. "The timing on that crowd of people was perfect, so I was able to slip by and snatch his checkbook without being noticed. I ripped a check out of it... who knows, we might be able to glean something from it."

---(Music End)---

Our phones buzz in unison. The others must be contacting us.

Haru: It's been a while. Is everything ok?
Akira: It's a long story.
Ryuji: No it's not.
Ryuji: Yusuke dragged us onto the wrong train.
Yusuke: I trust that you two will eventually let me live this down.
Ann: Always an adventure with you guys...
Futaba: Oh man.
Futaba: Oh man oh god oh man.
Makoto: What's the matter, Futaba?
Futaba: Ok so this is potentially bad.
Futaba: So I was checking the app that I programmed that lets me use GPS to track the phones I've bugged.
Makoto: Please don't make me have to arrest you some day for this.
Futaba: I'll apologize for cybercrimes later.
Futaba: I was just meaning to look at Akira's phone really fast to see where they were.
Futaba: But I noticed something.
Futaba: Mishima's lawyer, Phoenix Wright.
Futaba: For whatever reason, at around 4:00 pm today, he went to visit...
Futaba: Masayoshi Shido.

---Music: Suspense (English Court)---

Ryuji: Hold up.
Ryuji: What?
Haru: Whatever reason would he have to do that?
Ann: Morgana wants to say that he's worried Mr. Wright may be sticking his nose where it doesn't belong.
Akira: What kind of person is Phoenix Wright? I'm the only one here who hasn't seen him.
Makoto: My sister trusted him implicitly based on his reputation alone.
Futaba: Yeah. He's very clever, and his quick thinking surprised me.
Yusuke: He's quite capable. Consider how effectively he saved Mishima, as well as discovered the real killer.
Akira: So... I can assume that if he went out of his way to see Shido, he must be trying to learn something.
Makoto: Cognitive Psience, perhaps?
Futaba: I was concerned about the same thing.
Haru: I see... so what makes this worrisome is that he may get involved into what it is we're trying to investigate.
Futaba: And it gets worse.
Futaba: About an hour and a half ago, it looks like he was paying a visit to the house Akechi used to live in.
Futaba: IMHO, we definitely can't ignore that. Who knows what he's doing at this point.
Haru: From what I can tell, he has a good heart.
Haru: He stood up for Mishima-kun without a second thought, without even knowing him.
Ann: So it would be an even bigger tragedy if Mr. Wright and his assistant get wrapped up into something dangerous and get themselves hurt, or worse.
Ryuji: So a guy like him would definitely have good intentions, at least?
Futaba: That's likely. But, intentions aside, he could be getting himself into trouble.
Futaba: I know we're all excited about making so much progress in our investigation, but we're still almost completely in the dark about a lot of things.
Futaba: We have no idea who our enemies are, or how many of them there are, or how dangerous they are.
Yusuke: And neither does he. He may not even realize that he is putting himself in danger.
Makoto: And we have no idea what Mr. Wright is thinking, either. It's too risky for us to let him investigate on his own.
Akira: My vote goes to 'Alibaba' having a chat with him.
Akira: If we simply get in touch with him and ask him the right questions, we can at least figure out what's going on.
Futaba: I've been texting him this whole time, but no response. His phone isn't on the map anymore either.
Ryuji: Can you call him? Just use a fancy voice modifier or something.
Futaba: Tried that too. Couldn't make a connection.

---(Music End)---

Akira: Well, let's think this through then.
Akira: Where was his phone last located?
Futaba: In the train tunnels heading back to the city. It lost signal and I haven't seen it since.
Ryuji: That sounds bad. Did something happen to him?
Makoto: It's possible his phone may have died?
Haru: Let's hope that's the case.
Ann: I'm looking at the map on Futaba's phone now, and it looks like he was heading back into the city.
Ann: My guess is that he's staying in a hotel somewhere, and was going back home for the night.
Makoto: Sis probably exchanged contact information like that with him, I bet she would know where he's staying so we can verify that.
Akira: Ok, moving on to the next points of interest. Shido and Akechi.
Yusuke: It's been a long time since we've heard those names together.
Haru: However, Akechi-kun is...

---Music: Confession Secret ---

I grit my teeth, slightly. A plethora of memories flood my mind, and I think back to everything that happened between our group and Goro Akechi, the so-called ace detective. In all honesty, had he genuinely come to us for help, we really could have been friends. And in his last moments, I believe he really did have a change of heart. That makes reality all the more tragic... the last memories we have of Akechi were of hearing his voice from behind a blast door, begging us to stop Masayoshi Shido in his place, before being silenced by a gunshot.
It seems to me that the others are all anguished by these memories as well. No one sends any text messages for what must be several minutes.

Ryuji: Damn... I feel so bad. His life was really effed up...
Makoto: At least we honored his final wishes.
Akira: True. So let's get back on point.

---Music: Confrontation ~ Moderato 2009 ---

Akira: Mr. Wright would have no way of knowing who Akechi was, or how he could be relevant to anything.
Akira: But he visited Shido first.
Akira: It stands to reason that he learned about Akechi through talking with Shido.
Akira: Whatever they discussed, it absolutely had to do with everything that happened a few years back.
Futaba: That's gotta be the case.
Ann: Should... we go to see Shido, as well?
Ann: We could go and ask him directly what they talked about.
Akira: You're right on the money, Ann.
Akira: I was thinking of splitting into two groups, one for Shido and one to go to Akechi's house.
Akira: Well, three groups, if Sae can find Mr. Wright. We can try and meet up with him as well.
Makoto: That's a no-go, sorry.
Makoto: Sis doesn't know where he's staying.
Futaba: And his phone is still dead. I can't track him atm.
Akira: Ok, back to two groups then.
Haru: With the direction you three are headed, you should be closest to Shido.
Yusuke: That's a good point. Perhaps fate intervened in our taking this train.
Ryuji: Or maybe you just weren't paying attention...
Akira: So the rest of you can go scout out Akechi's home. It's settled.

Alright, now we've got our teams in motion. This is good. Action is always better than inaction in these situations, so I'm glad we're already on top of things. Phoenix Wright is definitely an unexpected complication, but I'm sure we can figure out what's going on and react accordingly.

---(Music End)---

  April 10th, 7:54 pm
  Suramā Prison Facility, Visiting Area

Didn't expect to be back in the same visiting room so soon.
"This feels unreal, man... seeing Shido again..." Ryuji mentions as he thinks out loud.
Yusuke seems on edge as well. "It will likely be uncomfortable, to see such a prominent and frightening ghost from the past."
"Just try to relax," I tell my friends to calm them, "We'll just ask a few questions and head right back to LeBlanc after."
This isn't actually the first time I've personally talked with Shido since his detainment. Right after everything settled down, and a few hours before I left the city to go back home, I sat down and talked with Shido one on one. Part of my reasoning was to make absolutely sure the change of heart was genuine, but another large part of it was for personal closure. This man changed the course of my entire life, for better or worse, and I needed to lay matters to rest to move on. I wouldn't say we had a particularly nice chat, but it wasn't awkward either. It felt like it was meant to be. He talked to me about his goals and aspirations, and why it was he used the Metaverse to do what he did. He was wholly apologetic, and he sounded quite frightened of the man he was. As a final favor, and a bit of good will, I told him directly that the Metaverse no longer exists. I figured with the newfound honesty and goodness in his heart, he deserved a bit of closure as well, if only for peace of mind to know that no one else would be able to use the Metaverse for evil again.
From within the prison side, a door creaks open, and Masayoshi Shido is lead into the room. Ryuji and Yusuke seem surprised to see him within an orange prisoner's uniform, and without the tinted shades he had always worn. He looks a lot less intimidating without them.
As he enters the room, his eyes widen a bit upon seeing me. Though it's been a few years, he certainly recognizes me. "It's... you?" he speaks with genuine surprise.
"You sure are getting a lot of visitors today, Shido-san," the prison guard jokes with a friendly tone, "But be sure and wrap this up quick, visiting hours are almost over."
"May we have some privacy, officer?" Shido asks. The man nods and exits the room. I suppose a man like Shido likely still gathers a lot of respect. "Good. Now we can freely discuss your, 'careers,' shall we say."
The three of us sit down in the provided chairs, and Shido does the same in his chair on the other side of the glass. "It's been a while," I mention.
"... That it has," he agrees.
"If it's all right with you, we would like to just ask a few questions about earlier today," Yusuke explains.
Shido nods respectfully. "I'll see what I can answer for you."
Ryuji flips his chair around backwards and uses the back to prop his crossed arms and lean forward. "You met with a lawyer in a blue suit with pointy hair earlier, right?"

---Music: Cross Examination ~ Moderato 2013---

Shido nods. "I had a feeling that's why you were here. I'm not surprised you kids would be getting involved based on what we talked about."
Confirming this fact was a formality, as we already knew this was true. It's time to get to the meat of the conversation. "Why did he approach you?" I ask.
"He and his assistant were both looking into a suspicion they had, and one that is very relevant to you Phantom Thieves as well. I'll be blunt: they are worried that Cognitive Psience is being abused again for some sinister purpose."
Here we go. This is the game changing information we need to hear. "Did he mention at all what gave him those suspicions?" I further.
"Yes," is the quick response, "He had been investigating matters related to recent politics and a series of questionable deaths. He had drawn connections all the way from a recent local murder to the horrific murders in Koridai, and is beginning to think that everything is connected in some way."
I believe the other two have the same look of surprise on their faces that I do. Yusuke closes his eyes briefly to think. "So he's likely already on the same page as us."
Shido seems a bit suspicious for a moment. "What is your group's connection to Mr. Wright? Are you working with him? Or against him...?"
"We certainly aren't enemies," I answer.
Ryuji nods eagerly. "We're worried he's getting in over his head, and that's why we're trying to follow him and find out just what he's trying to do."
Shido holds his chin as he contemplates our discussion. "I see. He didn't seem to know anything at all about Cognitive Psience before speaking with me. I suppose he has never been exposed to any of these matters before."
"And that is exactly why he's in danger," Yusuke agrees, "If at all possible we would like to locate him and get a hold on this situation before it gets out of control."
"I understand. I'll help you," Shido agrees. "However, I have one condition."
"And what may that be?" Yusuke asks.
"If he truly discovers that there is sinister work at play, and that someone is out there using supernatural means to kill once more... I don't want you to impede his work. In fact, I'd like to request that you work with him, if that's the case. Cognitive Psience should never be used for murder ever again."
Shido has a look of fierce determination on his face. Ryuji eyes him suspiciously. "I never thought I'd hear you of all people say that."
"I... understand why you would be distrustful of me. I've caused you no shortage of problems. But, believe you me, I am glad you put a stop to what I was trying to achieve. I don't want to see anyone else cause the kinds of damages I did. That's why I answered Mr. Wright's questions, and why I've told him everything I know. It's because he and I both desire to see an end to whatever evil could be lurking in the shadows right now. I'm rightfully contained within these prison walls, and can do nothing myself... but you and your group can act. Will you help Mr. Wright and Miss Fey to do that?"
"Shido, you already know our answer," I smirk
Shido rests his eyes and smiles. "Heh. Who knew a day would come where I'd be ecstatic to know you young punks are sticking your nose in my business again. I'll tell you everything I told him."
"Thank you," I say preemptively.
"I pointed Mr. Wright and his assistant in two directions. Firstly, the research data on Cognitive Psience. I gave a backup hard drive to Goro Akechi for safekeeping, and it's likely still at his house. Provided Mr. Wright hasn't already found it, that is."
The three of us continue to listen intently.
"Secondly, there's a loose end that even I haven't been able to figure out. Among the parts of Wakaba Isshiki's research I repossessed, there was a strange item. Isshiki-san kept a pearl-like object inside of a ring box which she always carried around. It was even on her person when she died."
Shido chokes up for a few moments, seemingly in remorse. "I was never able to understand what it was, or what it had to do with her research. I eventually assumed it was some kind of personal heirloom or some such thing, and deemed it irrelevant."
"A... pearl?" Ryuji repeats, "What the eff would that have to do with Cognitive Psience?"
"As I said, I have no idea. Still, I didn't want to discard it, as it could have become relevant in the future. I trusted its care to the Sniffsonian Museum under the stipulation it would be kept a secret, and that I could come to reclaim it at any time. Such a reputable museum would take good care of an otherwise trivial item while I focused on other matters."

---(Music End)---

Our phones ping, and we all check to see what's up with the others.

Makoto: No luck with Akechi's house.
Makoto: The police have it taped off.
Akira: What?
Ann: An officer there told us that the home had been investigated earlier for potential ties to the Mizusawa case.
Futaba: And if they have it barricaded, they must have found something. I guess we were too late.
Haru: Are you having more success on your end?
Akira: We're talking to Shido right now.
Haru: Oh! Good luck.

Alright. Phones away, and back to the discussion at hand.

  ---Music: Investigation ~ Opening 2013 ---

"Akechi's place has already been searched," Ryuji sighs, snapping his finger in frustration.
"It's likely Mr. Wright already found what he was looking for," Yusuke infers.
"What exactly was on the hard drive, anyway?" I question, "You said Wakaba Isshiki's research, but can you be more specific?"
"It's precisely that. It's all of the research of hers that I was able to find," Shido reaffirms, "I only sent Mr. Wright and his assistant after it because it could help him to learn about the subject quickly. He'd never heard of Cognitive Psience before, after all. For someone like you or me, it wouldn't tell us much more than we're already aware of."
"Is that so?" Yusuke probes.
  "Everything I obtained was the same information that we, now, already know about the Metaverse. The rest of it was genuine psychology with the intent of therapeutic and scientific use of Cognitive Psience. Nothing about any other potential malicious uses."
"Really makes you wonder if Cognitive Psience is even related at all to the weird shit going on right now..." Ryuji theorizes, his voice trailing off with disappointment.
The man behind the glass looks as uncertain as we are. "That may even be true. It's wild speculation on our parts to think that foreign assassinations and shady political activity are related to what we've experienced in the past. But I've used supernatural methods before, and I've seen the dangers they present. If there's even a small chance someone has discovered a new way to abuse Cognitive Psience, then I will do everything in my power to aid Mr. Wright."
He suddenly bows his head respectfully, something I'd never thought I'd see him do. "I beg you. Please, use your experience and skills to aid Mr. Wright, as well. There's no group on the planet more savvy about the Metaverse than the Phantom Thieves themselves. You all could be invaluable to getting to the bottom of what is going on."
The three of us look at one another, and we all nod our heads in sequence.
"I think we're all in agreement," I add, "So let's keep this moving quickly. If the research data won't be helping us, that means we should focus on the second thing you mentioned. Some kind of pearl, was it?"
"I too found the mention of that peculiar," Yusuke furthers, "What exactly drew your attention to such a specific thing?"
Shido holds his head to the sky, and I can tell he's thinking back on fond memories. "Wakaba-san may have been a free spirit, but she was laser guided. Nothing she did was without purpose, when it came to her work. She wasn't the type to pay attention to fashion or accessorize... even the necklace she wore, she only wore because it was a gift from a dear friend of hers. Everything else about her was strictly business. So it really struck me as strange that she would constantly carry around such an expensive object. Still, even I myself recognized that it was nothing more than a hunch on my part. A gut feeling that perhaps there was more to that pearl than meets the eye."
"And you said you donated it to the Sniffsonian?" I repeat to clarify?
"That's right. An old acquaintance of mine is the curator at the museum. He's always been dependable, and I paid him a good sum as our terms. It would fit right in under his care with his other rare valuables. It's physically a precious gem, after all. He would care for it for the day I'd ever need it again."
"So... you want us to, what, go swing by the museum and pick it up?" Ryuji infers.
Yet again Shido nods. "Ideally you'll be able to collaborate up with Phoenix Wright before then. But, if that isn't possible, then I'll tell you the same thing I told him. Meet with the curator, and tell him Masayoshi Shido sent you."

---(Music End)---

Just by the change in atmosphere, I can tell this conversation is drawing to a close. This was entirely civil, and surprisingly helpful.
I stand up from my seat and bow. "Thank you for your help, Shido-san," I tell him. I never expected or even intended to bow in the direction of the man who once ruined my life, but it's a bizarre world we live in, and in my gut I feel like giving him a little respect now that he has earned it.
Ryuji and Yusuke are extremely surprised by this act, and awkwardly stand to join me in bowing. The whole sight must be pretty humorous, because Shido is chuckling. "It's no problem at all," he replies. "Good luck to all of you."
  I'm grateful of what we were able to accomplish as the Phantom Thieves. If we were able to change the heart of someone as wicked as Shido into the kind man before us, then I truly believe we did make the world better, if only a little.
The three of us leave the room, and immediately we take out our phones to strategize with the others.

Akira: Back.
Ann: Go ahead and fill us in. What did you learn?
Akira: Shido sent Mr. Wright out with his blessings essentially.
Akira: Mr. Wright has the same suspicions we do.
Yusuke: Shido mentioned suspicions about the events in Koridai as well.
Ryuji: Here I thought we were on to something really super secret here, and it turns out that lawyer is actually head of us!
Futaba: He must be more astute than I thought.
Akira: Have you been able to locate his phone yet?
Futaba: Negatory.
Akira: Seriously?
Futaba: It's off the grid completely. He may have turned it off.
Haru: So there's no way to track him...?
Yusuke: What about his assistant? I recall there was a young woman with him. Can you find her phone number?
Futaba: I had actually considered that. I found her phone number, and she does seem to be at a hotel. I don't think she or Mr. Wright are in any danger, at least.
Ryuji: So, let's call him then!
Makoto: It's a little late. Perhaps we can do that in the morning.

---Music: Investigation ~ Middle 2004 ---

Yusuke: Well, either way.
Yusuke: We do know of the location he will likely be visiting.
Ryuji: Shido said some stuff about a weird pearl at the Sniffsonian Museum.
Makoto: A pearl?
Futaba: ... Was it something he took from my mom?
Akira: Yes.
Futaba: When I was younger, my mom showed me a weird pearl once.
Futaba: She said it was very important.
Futaba: She never mentioned it again though so I had forgotten about it completely until now.
Haru: We are talking about a pearl, as in, the small gem, correct?
Futaba: Yes. Well, I think so. It looked so different than anything I had ever seen before.
Futaba: It shined with light and it almost looked like it wasn't real.
Haru: How odd!
  Makoto: So she claimed it was important. Do you think it had something to do with her research?
Akira: For now, that's what we're assuming.
Akira: Shido claimed that we've all learned everything there is to know about the extent of Wakaba's research, at least the parts he got his hands on.
Akira: He may not have come to gain or even understand all of the research in full, though.
Akira: If we are going on the assumption that the Metaverse, or some kind of Cognitive Psience is being used for evil, then there has to be more to the Metaverse that we don't know yet.
Akira: And this pearl Shido mentioned is our only lead.
Ryuji: So we basically know where to go, we just need to hope we run into the lawyer whenever he goes there too.
Ann: As far as Mr. Wright goes... what do we do about him, exactly?
Ann: We barely know him. Can we trust him enough to work with him?
Haru: Morgana wants to say that it isn't a matter of trust, and that it's our responsibility to protect him and anyone else who could possibly get involved.
Yusuke: Shido was partial to the idea of working together with Mr. Wright to solve these mysterious circumstances.
Futaba: Morgana's also saying that he's just a normal civilian, and that he's endangering his and his assistant's lives by investigating something so dangerous.
Haru: I think Morgana may be right.
Ann: So, our goal is to find him, tell him he's in danger, and to leave the rest to us?
Akira: That may be for the best.
Ryuji: It's getting kinda late. I think maybe we should just head back to our homes for the night and meet tomorrow.
Makoto: Not a bad idea. Do we want to meet up right at the museum, or go meet at Leblanc first?
Futaba: Leblanc. I've already cooked up a few different strategies on how to handle this situation, and I'd like to do some planning before we go.
Ann: Planning? For what?
Yusuke: I would imagine our navigator is anticipating the worst.
Futaba: Right you are, Inari.
Futaba: We're likely going to be dealing with one of Shido's former associates, if it was someone he formerly trusted to hold on to the pearl for him.
Haru: So it's likely he won't simply hand it over if we ask for it, is that so?
Makoto: It'll be beneficial for us to expect the worst.
Ryuji: Hey, if push comes to shove, it's not like we haven't broken into a Museum before, right? We can just steal it!
Futaba: ...
Ann: ...
Haru: Morgana wants to tell Ryuji that he's dumbfounded.
Ryuji: What gives, guys?? Is it something I said??
Makoto: Ryuji, this is real life now. We don't have our Persona anymore. It's not the same as it used to be when we were Phantom Thieves.
Makoto: All breaking into the Sniffsonian will do is get us arrested immediately.
Akira: I'm game.
Futaba: !!!
Ann: !!!
Haru: Morgana wants to tell Akira that he's still dumbfounded.
Makoto: ... Are you sure about that, Akira?
Akira: We've never let danger scare us away before.
Ann: I know you're our leader and all, but you jumped at this way too quickly...
Ann: Actually, maybe that confidence to jump in headfirst is what made you our leader in the first place, haha.
Futaba: I'm with Akira on this one! You forget that you have the world's greatest hacker on your side. A dinky little alarm system and security cameras won't stop us.
Haru: This is all moving so fast... but I thoroughly agree with Ryuji and Akira.
Haru: We will need this kind of resolve if we are genuine about our opposition to the evil things happening right now.
Ryuji: And if that pearl is our only lead, I think we should be ready to take some extreme measures, if we need to.
Yusuke: The prospect of another heist after so long... I must admit, it's rather exciting!
  Akira: This is all hypothetical. If everything goes well, we may be able to just ask for the pearl and get it. But it can't hurt to have backup plans.
Ann: Morgana is telling us that we're getting way ahead of ourselves, and that we should slow down.
Makoto: We certainly need to gather our bearings before doing anything rash.
Futaba: Yeah, let's put this convo to rest for the night. We can talk things out and work on more in more detail tomorrow.
Haru: See you tomorrow, then!

"Well, I suppose this is where we part ways, for now," Yusuke concludes, "I would suggest we be well rested for tomorrow."
I can practically hear Morgana in my head telling me to go to sleep.
Ryuji cackles a bit. "Ohhhh man, things are gettin' real interesting!" he speaks, his vocal inflection lead by excited anticipation. "Be sure and shoot us all a text when you're ready to meet tomorrow!" he insists.
We all separate on our ways home. I have to say, this all feels a little surreal. The dread of this unknown threat of evil is heavy, yet the intoxicating exhilaration of nostalgia brings me right back to what it felt like when our group was at it's peak. The Phantom Thieves were an unstoppable force, ready to look opposition in the eye with a taunting smirk.
Do we still have it in us to be just that, again?

  To be continued...

  ---(Music End)---

  ---Music: Victory ---

Would you like to save your game?

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Description
body div#devskin0 hr { }

  April 10th, 7:32 pm
  Shibuya Station

  ---Music: Tokyo Emergency---

Life has continued moving on for the city, that's for sure. Despite the high profile state of affairs going on in Koridai, those walking the streets have long since returned to their daily routines. In fact, things are so busy, I happen to have gotten separated from the others during one particular rush of people. We were trying to board one of the trains back home, and while some of us made it, the doors closed on the rest of us. Looks like Yusuke, Ryuji, and I are all out of luck and have to wait for the next train.
Ryuji kicks his leg in frustration. "Man! This is friggin' embarrassing!" he vents.
Yusuke contrasts the frustration with his own calmness. "It's actually a little amusing, in my opinion. There is a certain sense of beauty to the unpredictability of life."
I notice that my bag feels lighter. "Looks like Morgana hopped out and followed the others, too."
A vibration in my pocket tells me that the others are reaching out.

Ann: Yikes. Sorry. Didn't know we were so late that the doors were going to close on you.
Futaba: Morgana is telling me to tell you he blames Ryuji.
Ryuji: I was thirsty and had to buy a soda, sorry!!
Haru: Shall we all meet up back at Leblanc?
Makoto: You shouldn't be too far behind us if you take the next train.
Yusuke: Then it's settled. We will see you there.

I change from my messaging app to my internet browser and go back to reading an article I was checking out. It's one of many news columns published dealing with local politics, particularly the vote on the new law that happened earlier. As it's such a recent event, details are still coming in hot, but the speediest journalists are already compiling what information in available. Here, I find myself looking at a list of who voted for and against the tariff being enacted.
As I browse, Ryuji and Yusuke seem to be talking about a new movie that came out, though I'm not paying too much attention, as the information in front of me is what has my focus. It's rather distracting in the busy subway tunnels with all of the people and noise. It brings back memories of trying to read through all of those books on the train to school.
Well, normally it wouldn't be as hard to concentrate as it is now, because there is some kind of big shot coming out of one of the many train cars with a few bodyguards, and they are making a bit of a scene. "Looks like we arrived ahead of schedule," one of the guys in suits says, I think.

---(Music End)---

I'm nearing the end of the list within the article, which has been alphabetical by family name. At virtually the same exact moment that I hear the name Yokubō, I read the same name. Yokubō, Kigeki. One of the politicians who voted in favor of the tariff. This might be a fortunate situation, and I nonchalantly attempt to listen in on the person and their guards. Since I'm trying to use my peripheral vision, I can't immediately tell which one is the politician, because they are all wearing black suits. It couldn't hurt to listen in a little in hopes they say anything interesting, right?

---Music: Suspicious People ---

"Whooooo boy, what a stressful day!" one of them exhales in an almost comical tone. His voice is a little squeaky, almost. I try to look at little more closely at the crowd of people without making my intentions obvious, and upon closer inspection, the one who just talked with the funny voice definitely stands out from the rest of them. His suit is pure white as if he were going to a wedding. On top of that, he has white hair that comes out in wavy lines like a mad scientist. The group begins whispering far too quietly for me to hear from the distance I'm at, so I casually walk a bit closer.
It's been a while since I've tried doing this, but my special senses should come back to me if I give it a shot. I try to use the special ability I possess, and the world around me darkens as I gain the sensation of having a third eye. In this state, it's much easier to hone my focus towards the group specifically, and I begin to hear their hushed conversation.
"You should be able to rest and relax, now that things are quieting down," one of the others tells him. "I'm sure your associates will be pleased with today's outcome, as well."
"Ain't that the truth," the white hair nods his head, "I'll finally have some good news to bring for once. This plan already seems to be working in our favor."
"Are you certain it's a smart idea to scheme behind his back like this?" one of them asks.
"He's got delusions of grandeur," the man brushes off, "But it's easy to get on his good side. And soon I'll be the one calling the shots."
"As long as you are comfortable brown nosing, sir," one of them replies with a straight face.
"Oh, don't say it that way. I'm just riding on his status to gain more influence. It'll all work out. But, hey, can I have a drink?"

---(Music End)---

"Your water, sir," another guard speaks up, handing Yokubō a bottle.
  "Thanks, man!" he returns amiably, and he wastes no time gulping down a huge portion of the drink. "I sure hope we can get this meeting over with quick. My wife and daughter are expecting me for dinner."
As he prepares to leave the boarding platform to head up the stairs, I've already made my decision to follow him. They said way too many suspicious things to ignore.

---Music: Restlessness---

  My vision and focus feel laser guided while I'm in my third eye state, and I notice something peculiar. There's a glowing object on Kigeki Yokubō's side, perhaps something in his pocket. For it to have a bright, golden aura, it must be something crucial. I was granted this power of observation from the Velvet Room, so some force at work must be telling me the importance of this object.
Another train arrives at the station, and a crowd of people begin rushing towards the doors, and soon I'm within a sea of people. This could be my chance to get close without being noticed.
I dance my way through the crowd, slipping through gaps like an eel. In a matter of moments I'm nearly standing next to the politician and his bodyguards. In one swift, fluid motion, I reach into Yokubō's pocket and snatch the item from him, without being seen.
It's a checkbook... hmm. This is an important enough item that he'll definitely notice if the whole thing goes missing. Thinking quickly, I tear a single check from the book. I'm sure he won't miss one little check. Now, to get it back to him.
"Sir, you dropped this!" I call innocently. The people immediately surrounding me turn towards me, including Yokubō and his guards. I hold out the checkbook in plain sight.
He squints his eyes and looks at the book for a moment He double checks his own pocket and must recognize that his checkbook is no longer there, and the one that I'm holding is his. "Thank you, young man!" he smiles, taking it back. Bam. In and out with him none the wiser. I don't exactly know what I can learn from a check, but I'll certainly hang on to this and show the others later.
I feel a hand grab my shoulder. "Akira!" Yusuke calls to me, "You're going to miss the train if you don't hurry."
As I'm dragged back by my friend, I see the politician slowly leave my sight. With that, I'm on the train, and the doors slide closed. The train starts up, and leaves the station.

---(Music End)---

"Now heading to, Aoyama Itchome," I hear the automated voice announce.
Wait.
"Yusuke... did you lead us onto a train going in the opposite direction...?" Ryuji asks with hesitation.
"What? They told us to get on the next train," Yusuke returns.
Ryuji sighs heavily. "You can be so oblivious sometimes, dude."
"But... I thought for certain..." Yusuke mumbles, and his voice trails off as he recognizes his mistake.
I chuckle. "I guess we'll ride this one out and turn around at the next stop."
Yusuke looks at me. "Akira? Who was that man you stole from?" he asks, with directness so blunt it nearly knocks me over.

---Music: Residents of Fog ~ Suspicious People---

  Yusuke is certainly the type of person with a sharp enough eye to notice my pickpocketing yet naive enough to get his trains mixed up. I 'shhhh' him to quiet down, and thankfully no one else on the train heard what he just said.
"That was Kigeki Yokubō. I noticed he was one of the politicians who voted for the tariff law we were talking about today," I explain quietly, leaning in closer to lower my voice even further, "He was talking about some sort of plan and using someone's name to gain influence. It all sounded really shady."
"That a fact?" Ryuji speaks, entering the conversation. "Man, I'd be surprised if we found another lead so quickly. It's almost too convenient!"
I hold my chin in thought. "If this really is on a grand scale like Shido's ambitions were, it wouldn't surprise me if there's a network of involved individuals all in on something secret."
"We have dealt with sizable conspiracies before," Yusuke points out, "Our eyes and ears have essentially been trained to notice things such as these."
"I've been searching for more info on him in the meantime," I add, still looking at my phone, "And check this out. Yokubō is in a picture here from a newspaper run a few months back. And guess who he's with?"
I hold up my phone to show the other two, and their eyes widen. Yusuke gently grabs the phone to angle it closer to himself as I hold it. "That's the military man from before...!"
"Yep. It's Momus Melpomene," I concur, "And Kigeki Yokubō seems to be facilitating a meeting between him and this other person. He's holding both of their forearms as they shake hands."
The person we speak of is a young woman, rather on the tall side and of about equal height to Kigeki. She has snow-white hair that has a single strand of striped silver accenting her look. Her hair as a whole, which is slicked back so it looks formal in the front, extends from the base of her neck in sporadic spines, making it look a tad messy in the back. Yet, her appearance is clearly under her control, as the sheen of her hair suggests that it's been gelled. She's wearing a suit as well, which is a very bland shade of grey. Overall, she looks very professional, though her hair gives her a certain aura of whimsy. She's smiling lightly in the picture, as is Momus, but both of their smiles pale in comparison to Kigeki as his teeth are on full display, ear to ear.
"It says her name is Yashin Yokubō," Yusuke reads aloud, "She must be related to this Kigeki character."
"And we may have hit the jackpot with this guy," Ryuji grins.
"Is that so?" Yusuke prods with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, think about it this way," he explains, "If this guy was dumb enough to be openly talking about secret plans in public, he's probably going to be a good source of information if we can find him and investigate some more."
I reach into my pocket to feel the stolen possession to make sure I still had it with me. "The timing on that crowd of people was perfect, so I was able to slip by and snatch his checkbook without being noticed. I ripped a check out of it... who knows, we might be able to glean something from it."

---(Music End)---

Our phones buzz in unison. The others must be contacting us.

Haru: It's been a while. Is everything ok?
Akira: It's a long story.
Ryuji: No it's not.
Ryuji: Yusuke dragged us onto the wrong train.
Yusuke: I trust that you two will eventually let me live this down.
Ann: Always an adventure with you guys...
Futaba: Oh man.
Futaba: Oh man oh god oh man.
Makoto: What's the matter, Futaba?
Futaba: Ok so this is potentially bad.
Futaba: So I was checking the app that I programmed that lets me use GPS to track the phones I've bugged.
Makoto: Please don't make me have to arrest you some day for this.
Futaba: I'll apologize for cybercrimes later.
Futaba: I was just meaning to look at Akira's phone really fast to see where they were.
Futaba: But I noticed something.
Futaba: Mishima's lawyer, Phoenix Wright.
Futaba: For whatever reason, at around 4:00 pm today, he went to visit...
Futaba: Masayoshi Shido.

---Music: Suspense (English Court)---

Ryuji: Hold up.
Ryuji: What?
Haru: Whatever reason would he have to do that?
Ann: Morgana wants to say that he's worried Mr. Wright may be sticking his nose where it doesn't belong.
Akira: What kind of person is Phoenix Wright? I'm the only one here who hasn't seen him.
Makoto: My sister trusted him implicitly based on his reputation alone.
Futaba: Yeah. He's very clever, and his quick thinking surprised me.
Yusuke: He's quite capable. Consider how effectively he saved Mishima, as well as discovered the real killer.
Akira: So... I can assume that if he went out of his way to see Shido, he must be trying to learn something.
Makoto: Cognitive Psience, perhaps?
Futaba: I was concerned about the same thing.
Haru: I see... so what makes this worrisome is that he may get involved into what it is we're trying to investigate.
Futaba: And it gets worse.
Futaba: About an hour and a half ago, it looks like he was paying a visit to the house Akechi used to live in.
Futaba: IMHO, we definitely can't ignore that. Who knows what he's doing at this point.
Haru: From what I can tell, he has a good heart.
Haru: He stood up for Mishima-kun without a second thought, without even knowing him.
Ann: So it would be an even bigger tragedy if Mr. Wright and his assistant get wrapped up into something dangerous and get themselves hurt, or worse.
Ryuji: So a guy like him would definitely have good intentions, at least?
Futaba: That's likely. But, intentions aside, he could be getting himself into trouble.
Futaba: I know we're all excited about making so much progress in our investigation, but we're still almost completely in the dark about a lot of things.
Futaba: We have no idea who our enemies are, or how many of them there are, or how dangerous they are.
Yusuke: And neither does he. He may not even realize that he is putting himself in danger.
Makoto: And we have no idea what Mr. Wright is thinking, either. It's too risky for us to let him investigate on his own.
Akira: My vote goes to 'Alibaba' having a chat with him.
Akira: If we simply get in touch with him and ask him the right questions, we can at least figure out what's going on.
Futaba: I've been texting him this whole time, but no response. His phone isn't on the map anymore either.
Ryuji: Can you call him? Just use a fancy voice modifier or something.
Futaba: Tried that too. Couldn't make a connection.

---(Music End)---

Akira: Well, let's think this through then.
Akira: Where was his phone last located?
Futaba: In the train tunnels heading back to the city. It lost signal and I haven't seen it since.
Ryuji: That sounds bad. Did something happen to him?
Makoto: It's possible his phone may have died?
Haru: Let's hope that's the case.
Ann: I'm looking at the map on Futaba's phone now, and it looks like he was heading back into the city.
Ann: My guess is that he's staying in a hotel somewhere, and was going back home for the night.
Makoto: Sis probably exchanged contact information like that with him, I bet she would know where he's staying so we can verify that.
Akira: Ok, moving on to the next points of interest. Shido and Akechi.
Yusuke: It's been a long time since we've heard those names together.
Haru: However, Akechi-kun is...

---Music: Confession Secret ---

I grit my teeth, slightly. A plethora of memories flood my mind, and I think back to everything that happened between our group and Goro Akechi, the so-called ace detective. In all honesty, had he genuinely come to us for help, we really could have been friends. And in his last moments, I believe he really did have a change of heart. That makes reality all the more tragic... the last memories we have of Akechi were of hearing his voice from behind a blast door, begging us to stop Masayoshi Shido in his place, before being silenced by a gunshot.
It seems to me that the others are all anguished by these memories as well. No one sends any text messages for what must be several minutes.

Ryuji: Damn... I feel so bad. His life was really effed up...
Makoto: At least we honored his final wishes.
Akira: True. So let's get back on point.

---Music: Confrontation ~ Moderato 2009 ---

Akira: Mr. Wright would have no way of knowing who Akechi was, or how he could be relevant to anything.
Akira: But he visited Shido first.
Akira: It stands to reason that he learned about Akechi through talking with Shido.
Akira: Whatever they discussed, it absolutely had to do with everything that happened a few years back.
Futaba: That's gotta be the case.
Ann: Should... we go to see Shido, as well?
Ann: We could go and ask him directly what they talked about.
Akira: You're right on the money, Ann.
Akira: I was thinking of splitting into two groups, one for Shido and one to go to Akechi's house.
Akira: Well, three groups, if Sae can find Mr. Wright. We can try and meet up with him as well.
Makoto: That's a no-go, sorry.
Makoto: Sis doesn't know where he's staying.
Futaba: And his phone is still dead. I can't track him atm.
Akira: Ok, back to two groups then.
Haru: With the direction you three are headed, you should be closest to Shido.
Yusuke: That's a good point. Perhaps fate intervened in our taking this train.
Ryuji: Or maybe you just weren't paying attention...
Akira: So the rest of you can go scout out Akechi's home. It's settled.

Alright, now we've got our teams in motion. This is good. Action is always better than inaction in these situations, so I'm glad we're already on top of things. Phoenix Wright is definitely an unexpected complication, but I'm sure we can figure out what's going on and react accordingly.

---(Music End)---

  April 10th, 7:54 pm
  Suramā Prison Facility, Visiting Area

Didn't expect to be back in the same visiting room so soon.
"This feels unreal, man... seeing Shido again..." Ryuji mentions as he thinks out loud.
Yusuke seems on edge as well. "It will likely be uncomfortable, to see such a prominent and frightening ghost from the past."
"Just try to relax," I tell my friends to calm them, "We'll just ask a few questions and head right back to LeBlanc after."
This isn't actually the first time I've personally talked with Shido since his detainment. Right after everything settled down, and a few hours before I left the city to go back home, I sat down and talked with Shido one on one. Part of my reasoning was to make absolutely sure the change of heart was genuine, but another large part of it was for personal closure. This man changed the course of my entire life, for better or worse, and I needed to lay matters to rest to move on. I wouldn't say we had a particularly nice chat, but it wasn't awkward either. It felt like it was meant to be. He talked to me about his goals and aspirations, and why it was he used the Metaverse to do what he did. He was wholly apologetic, and he sounded quite frightened of the man he was. As a final favor, and a bit of good will, I told him directly that the Metaverse no longer exists. I figured with the newfound honesty and goodness in his heart, he deserved a bit of closure as well, if only for peace of mind to know that no one else would be able to use the Metaverse for evil again.
From within the prison side, a door creaks open, and Masayoshi Shido is lead into the room. Ryuji and Yusuke seem surprised to see him within an orange prisoner's uniform, and without the tinted shades he had always worn. He looks a lot less intimidating without them.
As he enters the room, his eyes widen a bit upon seeing me. Though it's been a few years, he certainly recognizes me. "It's... you?" he speaks with genuine surprise.
"You sure are getting a lot of visitors today, Shido-san," the prison guard jokes with a friendly tone, "But be sure and wrap this up quick, visiting hours are almost over."
"May we have some privacy, officer?" Shido asks. The man nods and exits the room. I suppose a man like Shido likely still gathers a lot of respect. "Good. Now we can freely discuss your, 'careers,' shall we say."
The three of us sit down in the provided chairs, and Shido does the same in his chair on the other side of the glass. "It's been a while," I mention.
"... That it has," he agrees.
"If it's all right with you, we would like to just ask a few questions about earlier today," Yusuke explains.
Shido nods respectfully. "I'll see what I can answer for you."
Ryuji flips his chair around backwards and uses the back to prop his crossed arms and lean forward. "You met with a lawyer in a blue suit with pointy hair earlier, right?"

---Music: Cross Examination ~ Moderato 2013---

Shido nods. "I had a feeling that's why you were here. I'm not surprised you kids would be getting involved based on what we talked about."
Confirming this fact was a formality, as we already knew this was true. It's time to get to the meat of the conversation. "Why did he approach you?" I ask.
"He and his assistant were both looking into a suspicion they had, and one that is very relevant to you Phantom Thieves as well. I'll be blunt: they are worried that Cognitive Psience is being abused again for some sinister purpose."
Here we go. This is the game changing information we need to hear. "Did he mention at all what gave him those suspicions?" I further.
"Yes," is the quick response, "He had been investigating matters related to recent politics and a series of questionable deaths. He had drawn connections all the way from a recent local murder to the horrific murders in Koridai, and is beginning to think that everything is connected in some way."
I believe the other two have the same look of surprise on their faces that I do. Yusuke closes his eyes briefly to think. "So he's likely already on the same page as us."
Shido seems a bit suspicious for a moment. "What is your group's connection to Mr. Wright? Are you working with him? Or against him...?"
"We certainly aren't enemies," I answer.
Ryuji nods eagerly. "We're worried he's getting in over his head, and that's why we're trying to follow him and find out just what he's trying to do."
Shido holds his chin as he contemplates our discussion. "I see. He didn't seem to know anything at all about Cognitive Psience before speaking with me. I suppose he has never been exposed to any of these matters before."
"And that is exactly why he's in danger," Yusuke agrees, "If at all possible we would like to locate him and get a hold on this situation before it gets out of control."
"I understand. I'll help you," Shido agrees. "However, I have one condition."
"And what may that be?" Yusuke asks.
"If he truly discovers that there is sinister work at play, and that someone is out there using supernatural means to kill once more... I don't want you to impede his work. In fact, I'd like to request that you work with him, if that's the case. Cognitive Psience should never be used for murder ever again."
Shido has a look of fierce determination on his face. Ryuji eyes him suspiciously. "I never thought I'd hear you of all people say that."
"I... understand why you would be distrustful of me. I've caused you no shortage of problems. But, believe you me, I am glad you put a stop to what I was trying to achieve. I don't want to see anyone else cause the kinds of damages I did. That's why I answered Mr. Wright's questions, and why I've told him everything I know. It's because he and I both desire to see an end to whatever evil could be lurking in the shadows right now. I'm rightfully contained within these prison walls, and can do nothing myself... but you and your group can act. Will you help Mr. Wright and Miss Fey to do that?"
"Shido, you already know our answer," I smirk
Shido rests his eyes and smiles. "Heh. Who knew a day would come where I'd be ecstatic to know you young punks are sticking your nose in my business again. I'll tell you everything I told him."
"Thank you," I say preemptively.
"I pointed Mr. Wright and his assistant in two directions. Firstly, the research data on Cognitive Psience. I gave a backup hard drive to Goro Akechi for safekeeping, and it's likely still at his house. Provided Mr. Wright hasn't already found it, that is."
The three of us continue to listen intently.
"Secondly, there's a loose end that even I haven't been able to figure out. Among the parts of Wakaba Isshiki's research I repossessed, there was a strange item. Isshiki-san kept a pearl-like object inside of a ring box which she always carried around. It was even on her person when she died."
Shido chokes up for a few moments, seemingly in remorse. "I was never able to understand what it was, or what it had to do with her research. I eventually assumed it was some kind of personal heirloom or some such thing, and deemed it irrelevant."
"A... pearl?" Ryuji repeats, "What the eff would that have to do with Cognitive Psience?"
"As I said, I have no idea. Still, I didn't want to discard it, as it could have become relevant in the future. I trusted its care to the Sniffsonian Museum under the stipulation it would be kept a secret, and that I could come to reclaim it at any time. Such a reputable museum would take good care of an otherwise trivial item while I focused on other matters."

---(Music End)---

Our phones ping, and we all check to see what's up with the others.

Makoto: No luck with Akechi's house.
Makoto: The police have it taped off.
Akira: What?
Ann: An officer there told us that the home had been investigated earlier for potential ties to the Mizusawa case.
Futaba: And if they have it barricaded, they must have found something. I guess we were too late.
Haru: Are you having more success on your end?
Akira: We're talking to Shido right now.
Haru: Oh! Good luck.

Alright. Phones away, and back to the discussion at hand.

  ---Music: Investigation ~ Opening 2013 ---

"Akechi's place has already been searched," Ryuji sighs, snapping his finger in frustration.
"It's likely Mr. Wright already found what he was looking for," Yusuke infers.
"What exactly was on the hard drive, anyway?" I question, "You said Wakaba Isshiki's research, but can you be more specific?"
"It's precisely that. It's all of the research of hers that I was able to find," Shido reaffirms, "I only sent Mr. Wright and his assistant after it because it could help him to learn about the subject quickly. He'd never heard of Cognitive Psience before, after all. For someone like you or me, it wouldn't tell us much more than we're already aware of."
"Is that so?" Yusuke probes.
  "Everything I obtained was the same information that we, now, already know about the Metaverse. The rest of it was genuine psychology with the intent of therapeutic and scientific use of Cognitive Psience. Nothing about any other potential malicious uses."
"Really makes you wonder if Cognitive Psience is even related at all to the weird shit going on right now..." Ryuji theorizes, his voice trailing off with disappointment.
The man behind the glass looks as uncertain as we are. "That may even be true. It's wild speculation on our parts to think that foreign assassinations and shady political activity are related to what we've experienced in the past. But I've used supernatural methods before, and I've seen the dangers they present. If there's even a small chance someone has discovered a new way to abuse Cognitive Psience, then I will do everything in my power to aid Mr. Wright."
He suddenly bows his head respectfully, something I'd never thought I'd see him do. "I beg you. Please, use your experience and skills to aid Mr. Wright, as well. There's no group on the planet more savvy about the Metaverse than the Phantom Thieves themselves. You all could be invaluable to getting to the bottom of what is going on."
The three of us look at one another, and we all nod our heads in sequence.
"I think we're all in agreement," I add, "So let's keep this moving quickly. If the research data won't be helping us, that means we should focus on the second thing you mentioned. Some kind of pearl, was it?"
"I too found the mention of that peculiar," Yusuke furthers, "What exactly drew your attention to such a specific thing?"
Shido holds his head to the sky, and I can tell he's thinking back on fond memories. "Wakaba-san may have been a free spirit, but she was laser guided. Nothing she did was without purpose, when it came to her work. She wasn't the type to pay attention to fashion or accessorize... even the necklace she wore, she only wore because it was a gift from a dear friend of hers. Everything else about her was strictly business. So it really struck me as strange that she would constantly carry around such an expensive object. Still, even I myself recognized that it was nothing more than a hunch on my part. A gut feeling that perhaps there was more to that pearl than meets the eye."
"And you said you donated it to the Sniffsonian?" I repeat to clarify?
"That's right. An old acquaintance of mine is the curator at the museum. He's always been dependable, and I paid him a good sum as our terms. It would fit right in under his care with his other rare valuables. It's physically a precious gem, after all. He would care for it for the day I'd ever need it again."
"So... you want us to, what, go swing by the museum and pick it up?" Ryuji infers.
Yet again Shido nods. "Ideally you'll be able to collaborate up with Phoenix Wright before then. But, if that isn't possible, then I'll tell you the same thing I told him. Meet with the curator, and tell him Masayoshi Shido sent you."

---(Music End)---

Just by the change in atmosphere, I can tell this conversation is drawing to a close. This was entirely civil, and surprisingly helpful.
I stand up from my seat and bow. "Thank you for your help, Shido-san," I tell him. I never expected or even intended to bow in the direction of the man who once ruined my life, but it's a bizarre world we live in, and in my gut I feel like giving him a little respect now that he has earned it.
Ryuji and Yusuke are extremely surprised by this act, and awkwardly stand to join me in bowing. The whole sight must be pretty humorous, because Shido is chuckling. "It's no problem at all," he replies. "Good luck to all of you."
  I'm grateful of what we were able to accomplish as the Phantom Thieves. If we were able to change the heart of someone as wicked as Shido into the kind man before us, then I truly believe we did make the world better, if only a little.
The three of us leave the room, and immediately we take out our phones to strategize with the others.

Akira: Back.
Ann: Go ahead and fill us in. What did you learn?
Akira: Shido sent Mr. Wright out with his blessings essentially.
Akira: Mr. Wright has the same suspicions we do.
Yusuke: Shido mentioned suspicions about the events in Koridai as well.
Ryuji: Here I thought we were on to something really super secret here, and it turns out that lawyer is actually head of us!
Futaba: He must be more astute than I thought.
Akira: Have you been able to locate his phone yet?
Futaba: Negatory.
Akira: Seriously?
Futaba: It's off the grid completely. He may have turned it off.
Haru: So there's no way to track him...?
Yusuke: What about his assistant? I recall there was a young woman with him. Can you find her phone number?
Futaba: I had actually considered that. I found her phone number, and she does seem to be at a hotel. I don't think she or Mr. Wright are in any danger, at least.
Ryuji: So, let's call him then!
Makoto: It's a little late. Perhaps we can do that in the morning.

---Music: Investigation ~ Middle 2004 ---

Yusuke: Well, either way.
Yusuke: We do know of the location he will likely be visiting.
Ryuji: Shido said some stuff about a weird pearl at the Sniffsonian Museum.
Makoto: A pearl?
Futaba: ... Was it something he took from my mom?
Akira: Yes.
Futaba: When I was younger, my mom showed me a weird pearl once.
Futaba: She said it was very important.
Futaba: She never mentioned it again though so I had forgotten about it completely until now.
Haru: We are talking about a pearl, as in, the small gem, correct?
Futaba: Yes. Well, I think so. It looked so different than anything I had ever seen before.
Futaba: It shined with light and it almost looked like it wasn't real.
Haru: How odd!
  Makoto: So she claimed it was important. Do you think it had something to do with her research?
Akira: For now, that's what we're assuming.
Akira: Shido claimed that we've all learned everything there is to know about the extent of Wakaba's research, at least the parts he got his hands on.
Akira: He may not have come to gain or even understand all of the research in full, though.
Akira: If we are going on the assumption that the Metaverse, or some kind of Cognitive Psience is being used for evil, then there has to be more to the Metaverse that we don't know yet.
Akira: And this pearl Shido mentioned is our only lead.
Ryuji: So we basically know where to go, we just need to hope we run into the lawyer whenever he goes there too.
Ann: As far as Mr. Wright goes... what do we do about him, exactly?
Ann: We barely know him. Can we trust him enough to work with him?
Haru: Morgana wants to say that it isn't a matter of trust, and that it's our responsibility to protect him and anyone else who could possibly get involved.
Yusuke: Shido was partial to the idea of working together with Mr. Wright to solve these mysterious circumstances.
Futaba: Morgana's also saying that he's just a normal civilian, and that he's endangering his and his assistant's lives by investigating something so dangerous.
Haru: I think Morgana may be right.
Ann: So, our goal is to find him, tell him he's in danger, and to leave the rest to us?
Akira: That may be for the best.
Ryuji: It's getting kinda late. I think maybe we should just head back to our homes for the night and meet tomorrow.
Makoto: Not a bad idea. Do we want to meet up right at the museum, or go meet at Leblanc first?
Futaba: Leblanc. I've already cooked up a few different strategies on how to handle this situation, and I'd like to do some planning before we go.
Ann: Planning? For what?
Yusuke: I would imagine our navigator is anticipating the worst.
Futaba: Right you are, Inari.
Futaba: We're likely going to be dealing with one of Shido's former associates, if it was someone he formerly trusted to hold on to the pearl for him.
Haru: So it's likely he won't simply hand it over if we ask for it, is that so?
Makoto: It'll be beneficial for us to expect the worst.
Ryuji: Hey, if push comes to shove, it's not like we haven't broken into a Museum before, right? We can just steal it!
Futaba: ...
Ann: ...
Haru: Morgana wants to tell Ryuji that he's dumbfounded.
Ryuji: What gives, guys?? Is it something I said??
Makoto: Ryuji, this is real life now. We don't have our Persona anymore. It's not the same as it used to be when we were Phantom Thieves.
Makoto: All breaking into the Sniffsonian will do is get us arrested immediately.
Akira: I'm game.
Futaba: !!!
Ann: !!!
Haru: Morgana wants to tell Akira that he's still dumbfounded.
Makoto: ... Are you sure about that, Akira?
Akira: We've never let danger scare us away before.
Ann: I know you're our leader and all, but you jumped at this way too quickly...
Ann: Actually, maybe that confidence to jump in headfirst is what made you our leader in the first place, haha.
Futaba: I'm with Akira on this one! You forget that you have the world's greatest hacker on your side. A dinky little alarm system and security cameras won't stop us.
Haru: This is all moving so fast... but I thoroughly agree with Ryuji and Akira.
Haru: We will need this kind of resolve if we are genuine about our opposition to the evil things happening right now.
Ryuji: And if that pearl is our only lead, I think we should be ready to take some extreme measures, if we need to.
Yusuke: The prospect of another heist after so long... I must admit, it's rather exciting!
  Akira: This is all hypothetical. If everything goes well, we may be able to just ask for the pearl and get it. But it can't hurt to have backup plans.
Ann: Morgana is telling us that we're getting way ahead of ourselves, and that we should slow down.
Makoto: We certainly need to gather our bearings before doing anything rash.
Futaba: Yeah, let's put this convo to rest for the night. We can talk things out and work on more in more detail tomorrow.
Haru: See you tomorrow, then!

"Well, I suppose this is where we part ways, for now," Yusuke concludes, "I would suggest we be well rested for tomorrow."
I can practically hear Morgana in my head telling me to go to sleep.
Ryuji cackles a bit. "Ohhhh man, things are gettin' real interesting!" he speaks, his vocal inflection lead by excited anticipation. "Be sure and shoot us all a text when you're ready to meet tomorrow!" he insists.
We all separate on our ways home. I have to say, this all feels a little surreal. The dread of this unknown threat of evil is heavy, yet the intoxicating exhilaration of nostalgia brings me right back to what it felt like when our group was at it's peak. The Phantom Thieves were an unstoppable force, ready to look opposition in the eye with a taunting smirk.
Do we still have it in us to be just that, again?

  To be continued...

  ---(Music End)---

  ---Music: Victory ---

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