Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Morning rush hour. A passing train kicking up a gust of wind. As every morning, Makoto awaited her train at the station, tucking a few strands of her hazel-colored hair behind her ear in an effort to fix the polished, outer appearance the wind had undone.

What are your plans today? Are we heading into the Palace?

Makoto looked up from her phone, letting out a sigh, a small smile adorning her lips. For once, her duties as student council president weren't the only thing on her mind. The responsibility that would usually underline her honor student persona had been set aside for something far more personal to her. A duty that she taken on for herself. Ever since she had awakened to her Persona and joined the Phantom Thieves, her position as student council president no longer controlled the rest of her life. Even if the situation surrounding her and her fellow thieves was dire, she felt strangely fulfilled. She was working towards her own goals. Fulfilling her own desires. Makoto Niijima felt free.

"That's quite the satisfied look on your face." A familiar voice rang out, the smile wiped from Makoto's face in an instant. She turned, her expression shifting even further into a subdued frown. This was likely the last person she had expected. Goro Akechi, wearing the same bland, sterile outfit he always wore. Not like Makoto had room to talk, the white blazer was also a part of her uniform, after all. Keeping appearances was something they were both rather skilled at. Still, ever since her last encounter with the popular detective prince, Makoto's opinion of him hadn't exactly been positive. Much the opposite, actually. And with her now actively working alongside the group that he was investigating; she wasn't exactly looking forward to a conversation with him. She cautiously put her phone away, her ruby red eyes reflecting in his scarlet as he continued.

"...on the other hand, that glare of yours is rather harsh. My apologies for the intrusion." Akechi tried to excuse himself, Makoto crossing her arms, cocking her hip to one side as she replied.
"What do you want?" She spat back, venom lacing each word. Akechi paused, chuckling.
"It seems I've struck a nerve somehow. Was it something I said?" The boy asked, batting his eyes, clearly having completely forgotten about their last exchange. Makoto couldn't exactly blame him, the way he had dismissed her last time. His opinion of her had seemed similarly low as his was to her now.

"...just a good-girl type of pushover."

"Really, I was just looking for idle conversation. I can't seem to sort my thoughts properly in this heat." Makoto just scoffed, uncrossing her arms again as she sighed.
"...I can relate to that, atleast. Still, shouldn't you be capable of handling such things on your own, Akechi-kun? Surely the famous detective prince won't let himself get overwhelmed by something as frivolous as the climate." Makoto said sarcastically, Akechi putting a hand on his hip, a smirk on his face.
"Honestly, I can't remember when I was last regarded with such open hostility. I must admit, it's almost refreshing. If this is about our last interaction, I can only apologize. My comment was rather crude." Makoto's expression softened. Seemed that he did remember. The honor student still seemed skeptical, reflexively fixing her hair as another train passed by.

"It's fine. Although harsh, your words did ignite a certain spark in me. I suppose I have to thank you for that, at least." Akechi looked surprised, a smile forming on his lips.
"A spark, huh? I hope it's not too presumptuous to assume that your previous look of joy was related to that, somehow?" Makoto had to think back. In a way, Akechi was right, though only indirectly. He continued once more. "My apologies-- I don't mean to pry. Still, I suppose you could say I incited a change of heart within you, no?" Akechi chuckled, Makoto looking unamused. "Merely a joke."

"I thought you were strictly against the Phantom Thieves and their methods? Or is that joke meant to make light of their ideals?" Makoto asked, an eyebrow raised.
"I suppose the latter would be more accurate. Though being faced with questions regarding the Phantom Thieves methods all day has made it quite challenging to keep such thoughts out of my head. It's to the point of irritation, if I had to be honest." Akechi let a sigh escape his lips, looking to the train tracks in thought. "Thieves that steal the hearts of those they deem corrupt. The general public seems to be singing their praises more and more. I wonder for how long this trend will continue..." Makoto brushed down her skirt, watching as yet another crowd of people was stuffed into a train car. Packed together like sardines.
"...I suppose the public wants something to believe in. It's not too indifferent from fiction, don't you think? The vigilantes that work outside of the law are often looked up to as the heroes in such stories." Akechi took a thoughtful stance, a hand on his chin as he answered.

"Given the current circumstances, reality is rather close to fiction. Still, it stands to reason that the Phantom Thieves ideals of justice may turn corrupt later down the line. Not knowing their methods, it is also hard to argue whether or not these 'changes of heart' can be considered ethical on the affected individual, despite how positively the change may affect the public." Makoto clasped her hands together in front of her, shifting her weight on to one leg as she answered.
"Your investigations did bring to light that each affected target was actually guilty of each of the crimes they admitted to, though. Right, Akechi-kun?" Akechi looked a little surprised, staring at Makoto inquisitively.
"You seem to be a lot more confident in your stance than you were last time, Niijima-san. So, you support them, then? Despite the fact both Sae-san, your own sister, and I are working to convict the Phantom Thieves, yes?" Makoto's brow furrowed a little. Akechi's tone had made that sound like a threat.
"It is my believe that there is more to justice than that which can be governed by law. In both Kamoshida's and Madarame's case, the Phantom Thieves have brought glaring societal issues and rampant corruption to light. There is value to that."

Akechi's tense expression softened into a fascinated smile. "Intriguing. You have quite the unique perspective on the matter. I feel as though conversing with you helped to broaden my horizon's a little." Makoto's eyes widened, a little surprised Akechi had reacted so positively to their conversation. She watched as he brought out his phone. "Perhaps we could chat again at another time. Your input today was quite valuable. Would exchanging phone numbers be alright with you?" Makoto blinked. She hadn't expected to be asked so brazenly, the girl stammering in surprise.
"O-oh, of course. I don't mind."
Akechi gave a content nod, looking up from his phone to watch his train pull into the station.
"Ah- perfect timing. Well, let's both do our best today, Niijima-san."
"Yes, let's." Makoto replied softly, watching as he walked off, disappearing into the crowd.

She watched with longing eyes as the train sped off, her hair not the only thing that was out of sorts this time...

Chapter Text

The sound of paper rustling filled the room as a gentle summer breeze blew into the apartment. Makoto was sat on one end of the table, her Buchimaru-kun pencil case opened and her homework and textbooks sprawled out on the table. The student council president was focused, only getting distracted as she watched a piece of paper get carried away by the wind, landing on the floor.

She finally looked across the table, immediately disappointed at the sight. Ann Takamaki, second year at Shujin Academy and an aspiring model. And, to Makoto, a very close friend. Usually, Makoto admired her passion. She was a valuable asset to the Phantom Thieves and had a particular knack for fashion and anything related to the modeling business. Though unfortunately, the same drive didn't seem to carry over to studying, the blonde slumped over the table, staring intently at her phone.

"Ann, what are you doing? You've barely even looked at your notes!" Makoto exclaimed, Ann's blonde pigtails lifting off the table as she looked up from her phone.
"Ughhhh...I'm just so booooored! I don't wanna study anymore..." Ann whined in response, putting her phone to the side and leaning back in her seat.
"But we just started an hour ago! You said you are 'So determined, you could study all night!'" Makoto scolded the blonde, Ann crossing her legs as she leaned on the table again.
"...well, that hour felt like three nights already! Sigh I need something sweet..."
"You already had a snack." Makoto spoke, the annoyance in her voice getting a little too obvious. Clearly, she wasn't used to having study partners. Ann blinked at her, not understanding how having another treat after snacking before was an issue. "sigh Maybe we should call it a day..." Makoto suggested, Ann playfully twirling a finger around her hair.

"Yeah, I think I'm pretty done for the day. Any more and my head's gonna explode..." Ann said, Makoto already having started on packing away her things.
"I swear, you remind me of Ryuji sometimes. Though I understand that I'm the outcast when it comes to school work." The honor student admitted, Ann giggling as she responded.
"Exactly! I sort of admire that, though. You totally get in the zone when you're working through all of the material. I guess that's what inspired me to give it a try...eeeven if it didn't work out, ehe~" Makoto shot Ann a warm smile in response, getting out of her seat.

"Beep-beep!"

The brunette reached into her pocket, retrieving her phone. A message this late into the afternoon could reasonably only come from her sister. Looking at the screen, Makoto's eyes widened.

`Good evening, Niijima-san. Are you available?`

Her gaze wandered back to the table, Ann haphazardly throwing all of her utensils into her bag with no care to keep her notebooks or papers tidy. Makoto gripped on to her phone a little tighter, suppressing the urge to scold Ann for that. Sometimes she felt like an older sister to Ann...but she had to remind herself that Ann finishing the semester wasn't her responsibility. The blonde stretched and let out a yawn as she got out of her seat as well.

Makoto let her fingers travel across the screen as she typed up a response.

`Not at the moment, but I will be soon. What is it?`

"Oooo, who are you texting?~" Ann looked over Makoto's shoulder, the brunette jumping in surprise. By the look on Ann's face, the cat was already out of the bag anyway.
"U-uhm...Akechi-kun texted me." The brunette stated matter-of-factly, Ann's eyes wide as she replied.
"He texted you?! How did that pretentious pretty boy get your number?!" Revealing that fact felt almost wrong. There was no telling how Ann would react to the truth. Uncertain, Makoto stammered out a plausible response.
"O-oh, he must have gotten my contact details from sis." Ann had a quizzical look on her face, an eyebrow raised.
"What could he want from you, though?"
"I'm not sure either..."

Ann had a thoughtful look in her eyes, pulling out her phone. Looking at the time, she really couldn't afford to stick around much longer.
"Well, alright. You better keep me updated, though, got it?! I'll need all the juicy details!"
"Of course. I'll text you later." Makoto said with a smile on her lips, walking Ann to the door.
"Okay...anyway, see ya' tomorrow!~" The blonde called out enthusiastically as she walked away from the door, Makoto softly replying.
"Have a safe trip home." Before closing it behind her. The brunette immediately turned, her back against the door as she retrieved her phone from her pocket. Sure enough, a response was waiting for her.

`Apologies if you're busy. I'm in Kichijoji right now. I was hoping to get your opinion on something. Perhaps over coffee?`

Makoto looked at her phone, almost apprehensive at the thought. Was she really about to agree to this? Running into Akechi in public was one thing, but making the conscious choice to meet up with him was dangerous. The honor student was stuck on the decision for a while. Akechi had a certain charm to him, and the conversation she shared with him last time was pleasant. Still, with his investigation on the Phantom Thieves growing ever more thorough, she had to stay vigilant. Yet, she couldn’t find it in herself to decline now.

`Don’t worry. I actually could make time right now. Give me half an hour and I'll be there.`

Already dressed in her best after-school attire for her study session with Ann, Makoto grabbed her bag, quickly making sure she looked presentable in the mirror before heading out of the door.

----------

The sun hung low in the sky as Makoto took a sip of her coffee. She would never have ordered it on her own, but ever since she had met Ren, the smell of coffee beans and even the taste had begun to grow on her. She watched as people passed by the terrace of the coffee shop, the girl turning her attention back to Akechi as she tucked a few strands of hair behind her ear.

"Well? What is it you wanted to talk about?" Makoto asked, the detective placing his fork down as he swallowed the chunk he had taken out of the cream cake in front of him.
"Oh, nothing so urgent. It's not as though these questions of mine couldn't have waited until another chance meeting on the subway platform. See this invitation as more of an apology on my part than anything else." Akechi shot Makoto a smile, the honor student a little perplexed by the answer.

"An apology? For what?"
"For my poor choice of words the first time we met. You made it clear that they stuck with you, so I knew I'd have to repay you somehow." Makoto crossed her legs, the answer a white lie that she could see through straight away.
"Well, I appreciate the concern, but I believe me giving you my number was more than enough indication I had forgiven you. Are you sure this isn't more about you saving face?" Makoto blinked, Akechi wearing a face of surprise as he looked into her ruby red eyes.

"I should be wounded you think so little of me, but I suppose you are right. You're just as perceptive as your sister, I see." He chuckled, Makoto shaking her head as she scooped up a spoon of strawberry and cream.
"I suppose it was intuition more than anything. I know for a fact the fabled "Detective Prince" would have picked up on something like that. Isn't that right, Akechi-kun?" Akechi took a thoughtful sip from his own cup of coffee, a wry smile on his lips as he put down his cup.
"You really don't pull your punches, do you? Your straight-forwardness really is refreshing." He chuckled, Makoto wearing a proud little smile as the detective continued. "It's exactly as you say, though. As a celebrity, I can't exactly afford any stains on my image. No matter how small they may be." Makoto took a napkin, cleaning the corners of her lips as she answered.
"Oh, there's no need for any of that with me. Sis does tell me about her work with you sometimes, after all."

"Is that so? Nothing confidential, I hope."
"Oh, no. Big sis would never be so careless with information like that, even around me." Akechi chuckled at the answer, shaking his head a little.
"That was just a joke. I've been working with Sae-san for some time now. Still, I suppose this is a good segue into what I had intended to ask you. I'm sure you don't mind?" Makoto put down her spoon, quickly sitting up to pat down her skirt as she laid her hands in her lap.
"By all means, go ahead."
"No need to get so proper, it's nothing so serious." Makoto still scooched a little closer to the table, sitting up straight. The inner student council president allowed for nothing less.

Akechi simply continued, finally asking. "I'm sure you've heard by now, but the Phantom Thieves have changed the heart of the yakuza boss Junya Kaneshiro." A shiver ran down Makoto's spine. If she hadn't been leading a double life doing exactly that, she wouldn't have felt so cornered right now. Surely he wasn't on to them, was he? She took a sip of her coffee to distract herself. "That is quite the feat, wouldn't you say? Kaneshiro has alluded even the police for many, many years now. To think that a group of vigilantes like them would be able to take him down so effortlessly..." Makoto gathered her thoughts, giving a simple answer in response.

"Perhaps we are underestimating their methods." Akechi looked at Makoto, now wearing a serious expression, his hand on his chin in thought.
"I believe that is true as well. Knowing what we do now, they are definitely more of a threat than the Yakuza themselves. Their intelligence network must be incredible, if nothing else. And with little more evidence than a calling card to go on..." Makoto took to her cake, the answer that finding Kaneshiro had been nothing more than dumb luck in the back of her mind. Something about having all the answers Akechi was desperately searching for amused her, having to skirt around them by no means easy.

"Well, as long as they stick to the justice they have been presenting so far, I don't think there is anything to worry about." Makoto answered, the detective prince still in thought.
"I wonder..." a sudden notification caught Makoto off-guard, the honor student reaching into her bag as she pulled out her phone.
"Ah. Sis is texting me. Sorry, I guess we have to continue this another time." The brunette got out of her seat, giving Akechi a smile. "Thank you very much for the invitation." The detective prince looked at his watch, joining Makoto as he also rose from his chair.

"Oh, the pleasure is all mine. This certainly was more enjoyable than the last time we got together." Makoto gave a content nod, Akechi picking up his briefcase as he continued. "I must admit though, speaking with someone as sharp-witted as Sae outside of work is a little disarming. In the good sense, that is. I feel I can relax rather well when you're around, Niijima-san." The girl put her phone away, a bashful smile on her face.
"Likewise. And please, call me Makoto. We're around the same age. It sounds so distant when you call me by my last name." Akechi blinked, unable to believe their relationship could have moved this far yet. Still, the boy fixed his tie, nodding at the girl.

"Alright then. Until next time, Makoto-san." He said, Makoto nodding in response.
"I look forward to it~"

Chapter Text

"For real?!"

Ann shouted out in disbelief, Makoto awkwardly staring up at the ceiling. After parting ways with Akechi just earlier, Ann had somehow convinced the student council president to come over for a "girls night", as she called it. And now, Makoto laid on Ann's bed in her black and white dotted pyjamas, regretting every second of it. What had been intended as a cute sleepover between friends was really just an interrogation in disguise.
"He invited you over for cake and coffee?! What did you do for that kind of treatment?" Ann asked, kicking her feet excitedly in the air, hugging a pillow close to her. Makoto just let out a sigh, crossing her arms as she continued to stare up at the ceiling.

"We met for the first time during my mock exams. We spoke a little about the Phantom Thieves and...well, he wasn't exactly being nice. He insulted me to my face." Ann let out a gasp, retorting.
"What a dick! And you just let him do that?!" Makoto continued, her lips pursed.
"W-well, it was after my sister had already made a similar remark about me...and then you did the same a day later." Ann paused. Finally, she had an explanation as to why Makoto reacted how she did. Why she so desperately chased after Kaneshiro. Why she had wanted to prove her worth. The smile faded from her lips, the girl feeling guilty as she replied.

"...so that's what happened. I-I know I already apologized for that a while ago, but I'm still really sorry, Makoto." Makoto gently shook her head, a smile on her lips.
"It's alright, Ann. Really. Besides, if it weren't for that, I would never have awakened to Johanna. It took a lot to get me to that breaking point...so in a way, your disapproval of me at the time helped me reach where I am now." Ann still felt guilty, her feet dropping onto the mattress. Makoto let out a sigh, continuing.

"Anyway, this isn't about me. Regarding Akechi, we met again in the subway station a few weeks ago, and things went so much smoother. I guess he saw something different in me that time. Our conversation was actually pleasant. He even asked to exchange numbers..."

Ann blinked, the blonde slowly connecting the dots. That wasn't how Makoto had said he had gotten her number. The gears turned in her head and she came to the only realistic conclusion. If Makoto had lied about how he got her contact information earlier, then she was clearly hiding it out of embarrassment. Ann's face lit up, the girl wiggling her eyebrows at Makoto.

"Ooooo~ I see!~ So, it was a date then!" Ann exclaimed, Makoto giving Ann a pouty side-eye as she let out a huff.
"I-I already told you, it's not like that! He seems to value my opinions...! We discussed what happened with Kaneshiro briefly, and that was that. There was no romantic intent behind that whatsoever!" Ann just kicked her feet again, giggling as she looked at Makoto with curious eyes.

"Alright, alright~ No need to get so defensive about it. Still, you better tell me when he asks you out next time!" Makoto hugged her Buchimaru plushie tighter, covering the lower half of her face with his head as she stared up at the ceiling. Maybe Ann was right. Was that a date? It had all the telltale signs of one. Makoto shook her head, voicing a few muffled words to Ann.
"...good night, Ann."
"Nuh-uh! Not yet! Girl's night doesn't end this early!" The blonde protested, the honor student reluctantly going along with Ann's demands. It wasn't before midnight that Ann relented, letting the student council president get her well-deserved rest...

-----

Kaneshiro had been dealt with. Summer break had begun. Although the time was one of leisure for all the regular students, for a Phantom Thief like Makoto, tensions simply wouldn't break. A new threat, a group of hackers named "Medjed" had made themselves known, threatening them into action of changing the heart of a CEO, lest their identities be revealed.

Makoto couldn't let it go. That, and the meddling of a second bad actor naming themselves 'Alibaba' only made the situation more complicated. They had no leads to go on, and no way to know what the right course of action was. All they had to go on was the name "Futaba Sakura", and the threat of being identified to the police.

Honestly, when Akechi's invitation came, Makoto had thought of turning him down this time. Though, with the situation at a standstill as it was, she allowed herself to relax for just one day. It wasn't like she could contribute in any way to solving this case at the moment. Joker was busy getting intel on whoever this Futaba was. There would be no choice but to let things play out until then.

Walking from Ikebukuro Station, Makoto finally arrived at the planetarium, the girl brushing her hair into place as she approached. The detective prince had been waiting outside, putting away his phone as he shot her a smile.
"Ah, Makoto-san. I was worried you had gotten lost on the way. I'm glad you could make it." Akechi said, the brunette giving a nod.
"No need to worry, the walk wasn't that long. Thank you very much for the invitation. Though I will admit, your choice of location this time is rather interesting. Why a planetarium, exactly?" Makoto asked inquisitively, the boy with shaggy hair putting a hand to his hip as he explained.

"Oh, there's no need to read so much into it. I'd been gifted two tickets for it from one of my acquaintances. It would have been a waste to let them go unused, no?" Makoto blinked at him, puzzled. That had explained the question of location, but not behind the invitation itself.

Surely there was more behind it than just curtesy. A friendly invitation to get to know her better seemed unlikely for the goal-driven detective prince. Deciding not to probe further, Makoto simply nodded as she replied. "I suppose. Shall we head inside, then?"
"By all means."

The cool air inside the planetarium was very welcome compared to the heat outside, Akechi and Makoto finding their seats as they sat down. The faux sky of stars above made for quite the spectacle, the two sitting under the dim light, looking up at the constellations displayed above. It was then that Makoto spoke up.
"I think I remember sis taking me here once. I used to not like it very much because it gets so dark, but it's nice to know I am able to enjoy it now." Makoto opened up, a memory of her clutching on to her sister's arm for dear life as the lights went dim. Akechi chuckled in response.

"Not a fan of the dark, huh? You'd never be able to tell at a glance. It's nice to know that even a diligent student council president such as yourself has her weaknesses." His gaze returned to the stars, the big dipper reflecting in his eyes as he, too, reminisced. "The last time I was here was with my mother. The permanence of the constellations is a little bit of a comfort when I think of those times."

Makoto's eyes widened, the girl looking over to Akechi. She hadn't expected him to get so vulnerable. Speaking of his past like he did seemed so unlike him. Perhaps it just never seemed relevant, Makoto's words opening the floodgates. Her eyes glistened as she softly spoke.

"What is your favorite planet, Akechi-kun?" her eyes drawn back to the stars, looking for the answer he gave.
"It would have to be Pluto." He answered without skipping a beat, Makoto surprised by the answer. Surely someone with Akechi's intellect would know Pluto wasn't a planet. Atleast it had lost said status long ago.

"...Pluto isn't a planet, though." Makoto said, tucking a few strands of hair behind her ear. Akechi looked over to her, smiling.
"Not officially, no. It lost that title years ago. Still, it continues its endless cycle as part of the Solar System, spinning around the sun with all the other planets, despite its apparent inferiority. It won't let itself lose to its circumstances." He looked to the spot where Pluto had been on the map above them, now only a faint circle where the image had been. "Unrecognized and shunned by the masses, yet still it continues. There is something fascinating about that, don't you think?"

Makoto thought on the analogy, thinking it a little far-fetched. Honestly, it sounded like something Yusuke would come up with, though she had to conceded it sounded fittingly sophisticated for Akechi's standards. The brunette spoke up in response.
"I don't suppose you are setting up an analogy for the Phantom Thieves, are you?" Makoto asked, Akechi letting out a chuckle.

"I suppose I wasn't being very subtle about it, but you would be correct. Though it would be more fitting if Pluto spun in opposing direction to the other planets. The Phantom Thieves do try and stick out from the crowd with their changes of heart, after all." Makoto let out a chuckle, shaking her head a little.
"To think that they would be on your mind even in a place like this. If that was your answer to shift the topic of conversation, what would your real answer be?" The girl asked curiously, Akechi crossing his arms.

"Oh, that wasn't some underhanded attempt to avoid your question. You will find it is still the same even without that goal in mind. I do believe that strength in face of adversity is something I can only attribute to Pluto, hence why it is my choice. Perhaps the answer is a little short-sighted, but I find the thought rather uplifting." Akechi said, Makoto scanning the stars above, the answer fascinating her the longer she thought on it.

"Mine would have to be Venus." she spoke out before the silence grew too loud, the boy next to her crossing his arms, his hand to his chin as he thought on the implications.
"Interesting. You know, in Astrology, Venus is often used as a way to describe beauty and harmony. Supposedly, it governs our desires and attractions. A fitting choice for you, I would say. I quite like it myself."

Makoto stewed on Akechi's answer, the girl beginning to squirm in her seat as he uttered those words. 'A fitting choice.' What could he possibly mean by that?! The honor student grew a bright red, disguised by the darkness of the room.
"Y-you know, you shouldn't say things like that to girls unless you are actually interested in them..." Makoto retorted, Akechi giving a nonchalant response.

"Oh, did that make you uncomfortable? My apologies. It was merely a compliment. Yet again, I find myself choosing my words rather poorly in your presence. I suppose that's what I get for letting my guard down around you." Akechi admitted. "Still, this would technically fall under the definition of a date. I hadn't exactly thought on the implications myself." Makoto was beginning to melt. They had air conditioning in here...and yet she was burning up. She really had to learn to get her act together.

Somewhere in the recess of her mind, Makoto could hear Ann squealing with excitement. She shook her head, shaking the blonde out as she replied.
"It's fine. I'm likely just reading too much into it."
"Perhaps. I will admit that spending my time with you has proven rather enjoyable so far. I would like to continue that for as long as possible, given you don't take issue with it." Makoto had to think on her answer for a little while.
"I would like to continue this as well. I suppose I had expected more 'interview about the Phantom Thieves' rather than this. I don't exactly keep many friends...opening up to my peers feels harder than it should be." Akechi let out a sigh as he returned her gaze.

"There's no need to force it on my account. Still, I hope you understand that my invitation wasn't merely forwarded to you to have you aid me in my investigation, despite what I may have said when we met in Shibuya. You are intriguing to me in more ways than one." Makoto just stayed silent, the lights above them turning back on as the show came to an end.

The flush of her cheeks became clear as day the moment she got up, Akechi smiling at her. He wasn't going to keep her on the hook for much longer, their outing having turned out as it did.
"Well, that was rather entertaining. Thank you for accompanying me today." Akechi said, fixing his tie. "Give Sae-san my regards. I'll keep in touch, if that's okay."
"I'll let her know. And of course. T-thank you again for the invitation, Akechi-kun." Makoto replied.
"Until next time, Makoto."

Quickly ducking out of the planetarium, Makoto could atleast attribute the color of her face to the heat. Still, she couldn't believe how much she had embarrassed herself infront of Akechi. Why did he have to be such a smooth talker...? She couldn't possibly write to Ann about this...

Chapter Text

A gentle sigh filled the air of the small café in Yongen-Jaya. Even with the calming aroma of coffee surrounding her, Makoto couldn't focus. Her notebook was splayed out, her pencil pressed to the pages, but the answers wouldn't come. The idle chatter of her friends surrounding her admittedly wasn't helping, only acting as fuel to the irritating distractions in her head. The honor student had hoped that her regular routine would help her work through these feelings, but evidently, she was wrong. A snap from Ryuji brought her back to reality, Makoto raising her head to see the blonde boy smirking at her. In the corner of her eye, she saw Yusuke making a frame with his fingers, capturing the flustered student council president's expression.

"I-I'm sorry...I got a little distracted." Makoto excused herself, placing down her pencil as she leaned back in her seat.
"I'd say. Your expression was one of deep, inner turmoil. It's rare to get an opportunity to capture an expression as such. Might I ask you to lean forward again?" Yusuke asked, the budding artist a little surprised by Makoto's sudden pout. As clueless as ever, it seemed.

"Dude, cut that out. Something's gotta be wrong if Makoto of all people ain't studying." Ryuji interjected, leaning back against the bar, nearly losing his balance in his seat. Morgana had been laying on the couch of the booth next to Ren, jumping up on to the table as he meowed out inquisitively.

"Something on your mind?" he asked, the brunette giving her feline friend a gentle smile as he approached. She gently pet his head, responding.
"It's nothing serious or anything. The whole thing with Medjed and Futaba has just been rather distracting...among other things."

Ren smiled in response, giving her a nod. "Our break starts Wednesday."
Ryuji joined in, leaning forward as he excitedly exclaimed. "Hell yeah it does! Hawaii, here we comeee~" Makoto smiled as well, a deep exhale leaving her lips as she let herself relax-

...only for that moment of reprieve to be ripped from her as Ann spoke up in a playful tone.
"Other things, huh? Ooo, is this about what I think it is?~" Makoto froze, looking utterly mortified as Ann brought that up so brazenly.
"I-I'm sure I don't know what you mean..." The brunette retorted, Ann playfully twirling her hair.

"Huh? The hell are you two talking about?" Ryuji asked, utterly clueless to what the girls could be discussing. Ren and Yusuke seemed to have different ideas going through their heads, the artist seemingly thinking on something more eccentric, with Ren simply giving Makoto a gentle smile. Ann looked to Ryuji, shrugging. "Sorry, just girls talk~ Don't mind us."
"You sure? You weren't exactly hidin' it."

"Yes. We're sure." Makoto stated coldly, Ryuji's eyes widening as he received a death glare from their strategist.
"Okay, okay!! Fine! Not like I wanted to know what it was anyway..." he exclaimed in a defeated tone, crossing his arms. The sudden ring of a bell caught the entire group off guard, Makoto turning to face the door. Just her luck...

"Ah. Now this is quite the surprise." Akechi said, a thoughtful look on his face as he scanned the interior of the back alley café. Ryuji, Ann and Yusuke seemed to tense up at the arrival of the detective prince, Makoto and Ren however less phased. Their leader casually leaned back, a care-free smile on his lips, whilst the brunette just gave a nod before sheepishly turning her attention back to her homework.

"I hadn't anticipated such a crowd today. Though I suppose it only makes sense you would invite your friends here with how quiet it is. Leblanc does have a home-y sort of atmosphere." Akechi smiled at Ren, Ryuji clearly cautious as the mini celebrity approached them.
"We hang out here all the friggin' time! Ren lives here, so you best get used to it..." Ryuji said in an outright aggressive tone, motioning to their leader. The tension grew thicker by the minute.
"Oh, I'm aware of course. He and I spend a lot of time together. Regardless of that, it's sort of become a safe haven for me, away from the prying eyes of the public."

He then turned to Makoto, the boy looking impressed as he looked over her notes.
"Diligent as always, I see. I don't suppose Sae-san is working you this hard? This is college-level material, after all." Makoto sat back, unsure how to take the compliment. Brushing a few strands of hair behind her ear, she answered in a stammer.
"O-oh, no. No, not at all...! She's always at work anyhow...though I guess seeing her sort of inspires me to give it my all, as well. I want to build a future for myself. All she's guilty of is imprinting that stubbornness onto me."

Akechi nodded as he looked at her, their eyes interlocking for a moment of silence before he replied. "A more thorough answer than I expected, though no less fascinating. You always seem to rise above my expectations."

The tension within the room had all but shifted onto Makoto and Akechi, the rest of their group catching on to what was happening the moment they analyzed Makoto's expression. She looked entirely helpless. Charmed, even. Getting out of his seat, Ren cast the real world equivalent of 'Patra', pushing up his glasses as he adressed Akechi.

"Want me to put on some coffee?"

Akechi turned his attention to the boy with shaggy, black hair, shaking his head.
"Oh, normally I'd gratefully accept, but that won't be necessary anymore. Somehow, I already feel a lot more energized than when I entered."

He then looked back to Makoto, asking in a gentle tone.
"Although, I would appreciate if you could lend me an ear some time soon again. I'll text you later, if that's alright?"

The honor student looked to Akechi, her heart visibly dropping. Why he would announce this to the others so openly was anyone's guess, but Makoto had hoped against hope that the others would never find out about this, not realizing that that fear alone was likely more incriminating than the fact they were even meeting up at all.

"O-of course. I look forward to it." She replied in a mix of embarrassment, confusion and shame. Makoto watched as Akechi finally left, the girl feeling the eyes of every single one of her teammates on her. Despite Ryuji's complete and utter ignorance before, he was the first to speak up as the door of the café fell shut.

"The hell was that all about?" Ryuji exclaimed, Makoto clearly struggling to find words to explain the situation. It was then that Morgana cut in, cleaning his paw before speaking.
"I guess he's taken a liking to you too, Makoto. For a detective prince, he's way more of an open book than you'd think."
"Oh yeah! I guess he does spend a lot of time with you too, doesn't he, Ren?" Ann asked, crossing her legs. The boy just answered with a nod, pushing up his glasses.

Ryuji scoffed, putting his arms behind his head as he leaned back. "That guy's probably just lookin' for approval from people in his grade. All that damned bastard's after is the fame anyway. All his fangirls prolly ain't enough for him..."
"You should probably sound less jealous when you're accusing him of something like that." Morgana replied, Ryuji putting his hands in the air in irritation.
"I ain't jealous!"
"Yeah, yeah..."

Through it all, Makoto only felt more conflicted with herself, Yusuke speaking to her to clear her self-doubt.
"Whatever the case, you should remain cautious, no matter what stance you may have on him. The same goes for our leader." Ren nodded, Makoto getting up and brushing down her skirt as she too gave a nod of affirmation.
"He might only be getting close to us in hopes that we slip up. I have a feeling he's already ascertained our true identities...all he needs now is proof, so be careful what you tell him if you decide to meet up with him." Ren spoke in a calm manner. Clearly, he had given all of this thought before when he had met with Akechi, just without the romantic subtext she had to struggle with.

Still, she felt almost vindicated with how this conversation turned out, the girl breathing a sigh of relief. It seemed the worries had been all in her head after all, all of her friends with exception of Ann still just as clueless about the internal struggle of emotions Makoto had to deal with regarding the detective prince.
"Anyway, all this sittin' around's makin' me all antsy, 'specially with that bastard just barging in on us like that. I'm gonna split." Ryuji said as he got out of his seat. The others all seemed to follow suit, Makoto beginning to pack away her things.

"If Akechi gives you any trouble, let me know, okay? You can rely on me and the others for this stuff." Ann suddenly said as she and Makoto left Leblanc. Walking with her blonde friend, the honor student nodded.
"I-I know. Thank you."

It almost felt like a weight off her chest as Makoto made for the train station, the support of her friends at her back as she thought on what awaited her in the evening...

Chapter Text

A cold summer night in Kichijoji. Yet again, Makoto had been summoned here at Akechi's request.
The student council president scanned the phone message carefully, trying to map out her path to the location Akechi had mentioned. An entertainment center of sorts. A lounge one could go to with their friends in their spare time.
Before long, she found it, a penguin with a rifle displayed in the logo. The "Penguin Sniper.", as it was called.

Generic pop music played from the stereo speakers as Makoto entered, the girl looking around, almost perplexed that Akechi would have chosen this place of all places for todays rendezvous. Squinting around the venue she could spot him hidden away in the corner, setting up a dart board for a game. He beckoned her over with a motion of his hand, the brunette approaching, fixing her hair with a brush of her fingers. Yet again, Akechi was full of surprises.

"Darts." Makoto observed, stating it in an almost comically monotone voice.
"Precisely." Akechi replied in a sharp tone, a smile on his lips as though he were mocking Makoto's initial reaction.
"It's a game of precision and skill. And, whilst fun by itself, I find that pair play makes for quite a fun pastime. The focus required lends itself well to introspective discussion."

Makoto had to suppress the urge to roll her eyes. Something about Akechi's refined speech and thoughts on any subject matter got to her. No one else could make a game like darts sound so deep and sophisticated. No one but herself, Makoto noted, finding that she had to agree with everything the detective prince had said.
"Ren mentioned something similar. I've always been too busy to take him up on the offer, but he's invited me before, as well."

"I see. I'm glad it rubbed off on him. Darts is a lesser hobby of mine, but it's still quite entertaining." Akechi noted, smiling at Makoto. "Still, I'm surprised you'd find the time to indulge me on this when you couldn't with your own classmates. It's honestly a little flattering."
Makoto smiled gently, a warmth taking her cheeks as she replied. "Oh, it's nothing. You did say you wanted to discuss something, after all. I couldn't just turn you down."

Akechi nodded. "Thank you. We are playing 501. Shall we get started?"
"Gladly." Makoto was handed the first dart, the brunette taking a deep breath as she got into position. Focusing her aim, the detective began to speak.

"Apologies again for barging in on all of you earlier. I hadn't exactly expected you and your friends to meet up in such an unassuming place." Akechi said, quietly observing. Makoto hit a bullseye.
"It's not like you planned to interrupt us or anything. Still, it was a little surprising when you showed up. I didn't take you for the type to frequent café's."

Akechi smirked as he crossed his arms, Makoto picking up another dart finding its mark on the inner 20 segment. Another 60 points. Impressive. Without explaining, she even knew this game well.
"Well, I wouldn't say I frequent it. Whenever time arises and I find myself deep in thought, I do find myself drawn to it though." He explained. "The aroma of the coffee and the atmosphere help me sort my thoughts more often than not. My mother used to brew fresh coffee every morning as well. I believe that's where the comfort it offers stems from."

Makoto stayed silent for a while. She could relate all too well to that sentiment. The little comforts always came from the things those close to you left before they departed. Another dart hit its mark at the center of the board. 160 points. Makoto spoke quietly as she looked to Akechi. "...I was a big fan of Buchimaru-kun when I was younger."
"Buchimaru?" Akechi repeated, Makoto nodding.
"He was a little panda from an anime I used to watch. When mom never came home, dad put it on the TV every time I cried. He bought me all of the merchandise he could get. When he died in his line of work...holding on to those things is what helped me through each day, I think."

-----

Akechi stared into Makoto's eyes, the melancholy inside her growing. Getting lost in it as well, Akechi took center stage in front of the dartboard, speaking.
"If it's any consolation, my father abandoned me and my mother before I was born. My mother worked as a prostitute to make ends meet. She would send me away to the bathhouse whenever she brought another man home."
"That's horrible..." Makoto said, eyes focused on Akechi. He seemed unphased, a neutral expression on his face. Still, as he threw the dart, it hit the board with an intense force, stuck right at the very center of it. Bullseye.

"Oh, no. That's all in the past now. I suppose what I'm trying to say is that losing your father in the line of honor might be preferrable to being abandoned by him, not that either outcome is ideal. I still dream of the day I can finally make my father pay for what he did to my mother...but that goal is far out of reach." Makoto's eyes narrowed. Akechi sounded so different from their usual conversations. Not that he did in inflection or anything, but his words were so much more aggressive, something she noted in his playing style as well.

He was ruthlessly precise. Another dart finding its spot right next to the one that had hit the exact center.
She just listened as Akechi continued speaking.
"Nowadays, the only goal I can realistically chase is tracking down the Phantom Thieves. To think they had the capability put a stop to even a group like Medjed. They certainly are a lot more dangerous than I initially suspected." Finally finished, Akechi hit another bullseye, ending his round at 150 points.

Makoto's turn again.
"My leads are running dry at this point. Calling them out by use of the media has been all but unsuccessful...you haven't heard or noticed anything at school, have you?" Akechi asked, the honor student answering as she threw the dart.
"Nothing that would be useful to you. Really, it's all just speculation. The other students get excited, talking about them. It's nothing you haven't heard before." She chuckled, brushing a few strands of hair behind her ear. The inner 20 circle. 60 points.

Akechi looked thoughtful as he watched Makoto, his next words giving her pause.
"Haha. I suppose you're right. Then again, all of you seem to fit the general description people have made about the Phantom Thieves. I couldn't help but notice it when I saw all of you together in that café yesterday. Students from Shujin who are all linked to the Phantom Thieves previous victims. Sakamoto and Takamaki dealt with issues relating to Suguru Kamoshida. Yusuke Kitagawa, one of Madarame's students. Every time I seem to run into all of you, the pieces seem to fit more and more..."

A cold shudder ran down Makoto's spine. She hesitated longer than usual throwing her dart, the girl swallowing nervously. "It's quite the coincidence...! We've talked about it before, actually. I can assure you, though, there's no correlation...and even if there were, what then?"
When she finally made her move, she took a deep breath, remembering what Ren had told her. Akechi was looking for any sort of proof. Inviting her out like this was likely just a trap, as much as she didn't want to believe it. Challenging him on this seemed the only correct choice in Makoto's mind. She tossed her dart, her performance no worse than before as the dart hit a bullseye, though only barely.

Akechi chuckled in response, putting a hand to his hip.
"I suppose you're right. It's not like I have any evidence to convict you beyond probable cause. Still, if there's one thing I found at Shujin, it isn't my lead towards the true identity of the Phantom Thieves."
Makoto looked perplexed, raising an eyebrow.
"What else would you have found there, then?" she asked, setting aim for the dartboard.

The answer went through her like a hot knife through butter as it was uttered.
"I'd say it's the connection the two of us share. It's something quite special to me."

-----

Her heart skipped a beat as the words left Akechi's lips, Makoto entirely disarmed. Trying to distract herself, she tossed the dart. In an embarrassing heap, it settled itself at the very bottom of the dart board, ending Makoto's round with an unsatisfying 100 points.

"My. I didn't think you'd be shaken so easily. Was it something I said?" He asked teasingly, the detective prince chuckling as Makoto pouted, her hands to her hips.
"You know exactly what you said...!"
Silence built for a moment as Makoto thought over her words. Just moments ago, he was threatening her, looking for a confession to a deduction that was entirely spot-on. And now, he was flirting with her. Her chest felt so tight, her mind further conflicted than ever before.
"I-I'd have to agree, though. These moments are quite special to me, too."

Akechi nodded, a smile on his lips as he approached the flustered brunette. As she shy'd away, he leaned in, metaphorically and physically backing her into a corner in their secluded play area.
"Good. Honestly, when we're together, it makes me think twice about the sort of future I'm working toward. As with the Phantom Thieves, stealing a heart is a crime, you know?"

Makoto's blush was impossible to hide at this point, the girl blinking back at Akechi, her heart racing at the message imparted on her. They were very likely just pretty words. Carefully picked to make her let her guard down. Yet, she couldn't find the strength to resist. In her heart, this was all she wanted. Again, she swallowed nervously, a wry smile on her lips as she spoke.

"I'm not sure what you mean..."
"Oh? Well, perhaps this will get a confession out of you..."

Akechi closed in. Makoto knew what this meant. She had seen it in all of the romantic drama's. The cute manga's she sometimes read. The anime's she watched. This moment was orchestrated exactly like it. Her mind scattered like bugs from under a lifted rock. What would her sister think? What would her friends say? This wasn't right...! He was doing this for his own benefit...! But why else would he invite her out so often? And what he said at the planetarium. Makoto wanted to believe.

She shut her eyes, and their lips met. Makoto opened her eyes as he pulled away again, the moment fading just as quickly as it happened. She felt out of breath. Weak. She clutched at her chest, her heart threatening to implode, her face tomato red. Yet again, Akechi seemed unphased. He casually walked back to the dart board, picking up a dart, Makoto stunned as she watched him play.

The inner 20 circle. 60 points.
The inner 10 circle. 30 points.
His last dart hit the large space signaling a single point. 501. A perfect game.

"Well, that was exciting, wasn't it? Would you be up for another round?" Akechi asked, not addressing what had just occured between them at all. Makoto's eyes sparkled, the brunette nodding as she joined by Akechi's side once again.

The game passed with a lingering tension between the two, the evening clinging out with Makoto's uncertain feelings erased. She knew what she wanted...but she wasn't sure if it's what Akechi would want as well...