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A Dragon's Family(Rewriting) by Pandora's Reader

Anime X-overs & High School DxD/ハイスクールD×D Xover Rated: M, English, Family & Adventure, OC, Rias G., T. Koneko, S. Irina, Words: 187k+, Favs: 175, Follows: 180, Published: Oct 25, 2021 Updated: Nov 17, 2021

22Chapter 12: The big city and the little cafe

AN - I don't own Highschool DxD or the Persona series.

Their Phantom Thief names will be used when i'm referencing them as such in the metaverse or they're in a situation like you'll see later.

Also, the Arcana i made Tara is real and actually fits with who she is as a person.

{Tara's POV}

Flying was always nice. Feeling the wind against my body and the feeling of freedom it gave me was something i'd never get tired of. Irina shared my feeling since i could tell she was laying back and just enjoying the flight. I wasn't going fast, i could make it to Tokyo in minutes if i went full speed, but that'd take away the experience from both me and Irina, so i just flew nice and slow. It also gave me time to think. I knew Futaba's arc would start soon, but i didn't know when. I only knew it was sometime during the break, and that would start either today or tomorrow depending on how Shujin did it. With that time-table in mind, i thought about how i'd get involved with them. That was easy to figure out. Drop by Leblanc, get Joker's attention, which considering how unique i looked would make it simple, and go from there.

There were multiple ways i could go about it. Hell, i could just tail them to mementos and be 'accidentally' pulled in if i wanted too. But i wanted to play the 'mysterious NPC that knows shit' role, and i had to do it subtly. And now that i thought of it, getting his attention would be even easier. I had the same last name as his caretaker and my pseudo little sister Irina, had the same last name, pronounced at least, as his arch-enemy... I didn't remember if he knew it at this point, so only one of those would work. With those thoughts sorted out, i wondered what i'd actually do with them. I couldn't lie, the idea of going into a palace and fucking up concepts of gods and other monsters sounded very appealing.

But i couldn't do too much. I was pretty sure Futaba's palace needed them to go through and solve puzzles and things like that. Though i wondered if flying them to the top would even work. And as appealing as the idea of wrestling a massive sphinx with the head of Futaba's mother was, i couldn't do that either. Realizing that i had way less options to interfere then i thought mad me a bit annoyed. Then the idea of flying them to the entrance of Futaba's palace came into mind, and i settled on that. Then when Rias came, we could have them take us to mementos so we could train Unison Raids like i told her we could... I'd either have to bring Irina or keep her informed but out of the metaverse.

Without Excalibur Mimic, she was just a base-human. A highly trained one, but one nonetheless. After i finished that thought, i didn't know what else to think about, so i just slowly sped us. "So Irina, what do you want to do first?" "Hmm... I've always wanted to see Shibuya! Maybe walk around a bit, takes some pictures and find something fun for us to do?" "That'll do. Now then, time to get to our hotel!" "Yeah!" And then we spent a bit more going back and fourth on what else we'd do, and we got to our hotel a few minutes later. {Thanks for putting a Notice-Me-Not on my harness by the way.} {You're welcome.} I made sure no one was there, and landed on top of the building. I made sure Irina was off, and got our luggage out, and turned back, and was surprised to see my harness do the same. Now it was this little gray box i could put in a pocket.

I grabbed my suitcases and walked with Irina to the rooftop entrance, which thankfully had an elevator. We got in and hit the option for the 1st floor. The elevator was nice and it had some ok-ish elevator music. Irina just hummed with it, and i just listened to her instead of the music. We eventually made it to the 1st floor, and started heading over to the reception desk. There were a few people that looked at me, and whispered either about my clothes or my looks, which both had negative and positive whispers around them. I didn't mind them, and i saw Irina didn't either... That or she was good at not letting it show. I could just ask later. We got to the reception desk, and checked for the room Azazel reserved for me. And when i found out it was a VIP suite, i almost wished the guy was here just so i could kiss him. {Can you kiss Azazel for me later? This rooms amazing!} {Didn't need an excuse to do so but i'll take it.} I snorted at that and went back to looking at the room.

The room was fucking sweet! It was big, had a queen bed that Irina dived into like my room did, had a mini-fridge, which i was tempted to steal and take back home, a VERY nice bathroom and shower, and blackout curtains for that annoying sun. I loved it, Irina loved it, Natsu, who i let come out loved it, it was great. And speaking of Natsu. A month and some change as my familiar had some unexpected results on him. Sure he was still small enough to be considered a puppy, but he was starting to look a little different. At the start, he looked like a generic dog, but now? He was starting to look like a mix of Doberman and Husky. He had a lean little body and the fur and small bit of facial structure of a husky. I loved my little boy even more when i figured out that's how he was turning out.

Irina and i got settled in, and got ready to check out the city. Irina brought out a big hat and swapped out of her sweater, keeping to her camisole and the rest of her outfit, and i decided to grab an accessory of my own. I went into one of my suitcases, and grabbed a bracelet with the Fairy Tail emblem on it and put it on. I was always tempted to get a tattoo of it, but mom would always object to it, for some reason, so this was the closest i got. But now that mom wasn't here to say no, i decided i'd get it here. Just had to find a good place to do it and it'd be done. Anyway, time to head out and explore. "You ready Irina?" "Yup. It's time for the adventure begin!" And so it did. We left the hotel, and i let Natsu stay on my head, as we made our way to Shibuya.

We took in the sights, and stores since Irina found a store with cute key-chains she liked and bought matching ones for us and another one for Rias. We kept walking around, and eventually made it to Shibuya. And man was that place giving me New York vibes. It was like Times Square, just japanese. A fuck-ton of people at all times? Check. Noise that would start to get annoying if you spent 30 minutes or more there? Check. Billboards all over the place? Check... Man, i didn't realize how much i missed New York. I'd have to put that on a list of things to do eventually. Shaking myself out of those thoughts, i kept exploring with Irina by my side, and small talk being made. We spent an hour just walking around and having a good time, and me glaring at anyone who tried to approach us just because we were good looking. It was when i heard Irina's stomach grumble like an annoyed lion that i knew it was time to start phase 1.

"Martha read about this place with great curry and coffee, wanna check it out Irina?" She looked at me and i could already tell the answer. And if the look in her eyes wasn't enough for me, her grabbing my arm and shaking me was definitely enough to let me know. "Alright, i got it! Now please Irina, we're making a scene." Which was true. Some people were just observing us by the side, and that got Irina to set me free. "Where is it Tara-oneesan? And does the coffee actually work? I've never really been a coffee person, and the church never really had any good kinds to get me interested in it." Huh, another annoying detail about the church. "The place's coffee is meant to be the best, so if we don't find anything for you, then it just wasn't meant to be." "Ok! So, where's this mysterious Coffee and Curry place huh?" "Somewhere in Yongen-Jaya." Irina just motioned 'ok and?' and i facepalmed.

Why did i think she knew where that was? I just sighed, and held her hand. "Just follow me hun." "Okaaay!" And so we walked. I checked the subway lines, and looked for the platform for the train that would take us there. 2 tickets and an annoying wait filled with lecherous looks that earned more glares later, the train came. I underestimated how packed japan's trains were, and i was tempted to say fuck it and fly. But Irina pulled me into the train, and sat in a seat as soon as she found one. I wasn't lucky enough for one, but that was fine. I stood as close to her as possible, and kept my glare up as i did so. We had a small circle where no one came too close to me if they didn't have too, and i was fine with that. I kept it up until we reached our stop, and i led Irina out of the train. We walked out of the station, and i followed my game knowledge to the route of the cafe. I sent Natsu back since i didn't think he'd be allowed in, and kept going.

I did get lost like, once, but after getting back on the path and one giggling Irina later, i found it. The place looked just like the game, just in real life definition. I was tempted to drop by the clinic, since the doctor there was hot if my memory served me right, but i thought of saving it for another day. I led Irina to the cafe, and just took in the smell. "Leblanc..? I don't get it. Does it mean something or is it a name?" "Martha told me it was a book reference or something, but i wasn't paying attention." "Of course you didn't Tara-oneesan." "I'll ignore that for now, but just remember, i'm the one paying for this." That got her real quick. I chuckled at her, and opened the door. The place was pretty much the same as the game, and the smell was just wonderful. I loved coffee in my last life, but ever since i got my lightning beads, i haven't drank as much coffee as i used too. I still had a cup every once in a while, but it wasn't really daily.

But the smell of this place made me want to order up a cup the moment i walked in. The feel of this place just made things even better. I saw the old guy, Sojiro if i was right, by the counter and a old couple in one of the booths. He looked up when the bell rang, and sent an appreciative look my way. It was the 'That's a nice view' look, and held nothing else behind it. Nice, i was liking him already. "Oneesan, you're blocking the waaaay!" Oops. I walked in and Irina followed. Sojiro looked amused, and i decided to sit at the counter, and Irina sat next to me. "Hey old man, how's business?" He raised a brow and hummed at me. "Not the first thing a new customer says, but i'll take it. Business is going fine. What brings a pair of gorgeous young women like yourselves here?" Irina blushed at the compliment, and i smiled. "My sister, not the little mess next to me, read about this place and pointed me over here when i got the chance to go on vacation."

And that was the story that we would keep sticking with. It wasn't even that much of a lie either since Martha DID look the place up. It was just after i told her it existed. Sojiro hummed thoughtfully after i said that, and i was pretty sure i saw a nostalgic look in his eyes. "Didn't know they still wrote about this old place. I'll have to thank your sister for the new customers. So what'll you two have?" "I'll have a Mocha if you can make it, and Irina wanted to try your coffee and curry combo. But be warned, she's a total beginner in coffee, so if you can find something she likes i'll make sure we drop by everyday." He smirked at me, and i could see him turn his gaze to Irina. "I'll take that challenge. One Caffe mocha and coffee and curry combo coming right up." And he went to work. While he did that, i expanded my senses, and felt around. I didn't hear anything from upstairs, so Joker wasn't in, oh well.

I zoned back in, and saw Irina pouting at me. I just laughed and put a hand on her head. She tried to keep her pout up, but eventually just gave up and muttered 'Unfair oneesan is unfair.' I laughed even more at that, and just took in the atmosphere. It was nice and just felt calming. Hmm. {You should come here sometime. I think you'd love this place.} {The cafe?} {Yeah. Reminds me of times we would just chill while you studied or just relaxed and watched a movie.} {... Simpler times... Ok. I'll try to drop by in a few minutes and head back home.} {Nice! Text me you're coming, so i have an excuse.} {Whatever.} And a few seconds later, she did. "Good news old man, my sister's coming over for a bit. Think you can put together a Red Eye?" "Hmm, after i'm done with your first orders, sure. And while we're here, call me boss." "You got it bossman!" He chuckled at that, and i smiled.

"Nee, is Martha-oneesan really coming? Shouldn't she be..?" "Oh, she is. But she's interested in the place. Reminds us of simpler times." I could tell Irina, was interested about what i meant by that, but i decided to hold off on that explanation. A few minutes later, and Boss was done with my orders. Irina took one bite of the curry, and turned into a black hole that would make Koneko proud. I watched her eat with a smile on my face, and took a sip of my coffee, and damn was i loving how good he made it. Even Irina, who said she wasn't a coffee person, loved the coffee he made her. She drank at-least half of it after she blew on it for a bit, and it amused me how much she changed her tune. "Well whaddya know, looks like you've got yourself some new regulars while we're here Bossman." He smirked at me, and i could see amusement and pride all over his face.

It looked like he was about to say something, but then the bell rang again. We looked over to the door, and i saw it was Martha. When she walked in, i swore i heard a squeal of excitement from somewhere, i just didn't know where. She looked around, and i could see her take in the atmosphere. I could even sense some melancholy coming off of her. I waved her over, and she sat on the side Irina wasn't on. The smile on her face was worth a thousand words for me. "You were right..." And that's all i got from her. I turned back and saw Sojiro look between me, Martha and Irina, probably for a resemblance of any kind. "Irina's not related to us, she's pretty much family to us though. We do have another sister that pretty much could go for being related to us though." "Hoh? Interesting. Anyway, i'd like to thank you for giving me some new customers, so the Red Eye's on the house miss..." ""Sakura."" Another squeal, but i think i might've been hearing Futaba.

I knew he was talking to Martha, but i wanted to see how he'd react to us sharing a surname. Boss blinked, and raised his brows as he looked at us and started to stroke his chin. "You wouldn't happen to be related to a Masaru Sakura, would you?" Now that surprised me, and i could tell it surprised Martha and Irina. "You know our grandfather?" "Well would you look at that... Yes, i do. Your grandfather made quite the name for himself in the military, and he even still goes back to teach recruits. I met your grandfather years ago because someone had sent a package meant for him to me. We didn't talk too often, but we knew of each other and had some small interactions over the years. We talk on a few occasions." Well wasn't that a fucking doozy? Even Martha, the one that asked the question, wasn't expecting that. But our stupor was broken by Irina. "Seconds please!" We all turned to her, and she put on this cute sheepish grin. We all let out a small chuckle, and Boss went to work.

{Interesting. Maybe we should bring grandfather here sometime. See how that goes.} {True. It'll be nice to see him talk about old times with a friend.} {True. Anyway, i may need to set a marker somewhere nearby, i would actually like to come back sometimes.} {See, i knew you'd love it.} {And on the rare occasion, you were right.} I sent a mental scoff at her and went back to my coffee. We sat there in silence, just listening to the TV in the background and as the old couple chatted away. As Irina happily drank her coffee, and just took it all in. The game didn't do this place justice. I could feel how calm this place made my sister, and i knew telling her to come was the right thing to do. A bit later and Irina's seconds and Martha's Red Eye were here. Martha took a sip, and i could tell, even without our link, that she was happy. "So, what're you girls doing for your vacation anyway? If it's not rude of me to ask."

Martha sipped on her coffee, and eventually set it down. "I'll be spending time with my boyfriend on a project of ours, and later go to visit our grandparents. Tara, Irina and another sister of ours, who will be coming in a few days, just want to relax. This'll be a well deserved vacation." "Hoh? A boyfriend huh? What about you 2 girls?" Irina blushed at the question, and i smiled. "Me and my man are doing good, and Irina's been making moves on her own. Even if he makes me want to punt him sometimes." That got a laugh out of Boss, and a squeak of indignation from Irina. "Mooou, no punting Issei, Tara-oneesan!" "Oh come on! Don't deny you feel that way sometimes too! We all know it." "... I mean... You're right... But if anyone was going to punt him it'd be me! You wouldn't want me to punt Sairaorg would you?" I thought about that image. Sairaorg had a good foot over her, and the thought of her punting him broke me. I had to hold my sides as i broke out into a hysterical laughing fit.

Irina just let out another pout and just grumbled as she went back to eating. Boss just had a brow raised as he smiled at us. Martha had to explain why i thought it was hilarious. "Sairaorg is a foot taller and built like a 'Brick wall on steroids' as my sister once said. So you can understand why she's losing it. Actually, let me show you." Martha leaned over and put her hand in the pocket she knew my phone was in, and took it out. 1 Face ID and trip to my gallery later, Boss saw Sairaorg. He whistled and understood why i was having a fit. "Well i'll be. Kid looks like he could break me in half." "Oh probably. But you're fine. They do that to each other whenever they go out on a date so you're safe." "Hmm?" "Oh yes. Those 2 are a match made in hell-" Irina and i snorted during my laughing fit from that. "-They can't go a single date without ending up with broken bones."

Boss just listened and i couldn't tell what he was impressed by more. Sairaorg's and my dates, or that we worked. "You know, in my old age i've learned something. And it's to never question something like this. So i'll just keep my nose where it's currently unbroken." All the women in the cafe nodded, including the older lady in the booth. Conversations went from there, but 5 minutes in, Martha got a call from mom. By the end of it, she got up, paid for her Red Eye, and was about to leave. Then she betrayed me. "Mom will be looking forward to all the souvenirs you'll be bringing back, including a special one since i'm not doing it." And then she walked out. "Traitoooor!" I hugged Irina for comfort. "You'll help me get them, right Irina?" "Of course Tara-oneesan! But aren't you paying for them?" I pulled back and looked at her. She was doing her best to look innocent, but i could see the mirth in her eyes.

"It's a double crossing! Collusion! A mutiny!" I kept going, and Boss and the old couple just looked on and enjoyed my predicament. A little while later, and the old couple left. Irina and i moved over to a booth, and just worked out what we'd do from here. A half hour into our planning/relaxing, the door opened again, and we peeked over to see who it was. And who would've guessed it, it was Joker. But he wasn't alone, the whole gang came through. Soon, phase 2 would be put into affect. I went back to talking to Irina, and waited for them to notice and then slowly say words only i knew they would get. It didn't take long for someone to notice us, and i was surprised at who it was. "Beautiful! I can feel it, i've found new inspiration!" I blinked, and turned towards the one i heard say that. And shocker, it was Yusuke Kitagiwa, the artist and Fox of the phantom thieves. He was in his casual blue shirt and pants, and staring at me with stars in his eyes.

That set off the rest of the thieves, and they seemed to just realize there were people they've never seen before in the cafe. I looked back at Yusuke, and our eyes met. "Yes, i can see it now! Please, it would be an honor if you would model for me." I blinked again. "Plans never survive contact with the enemy." No shit. And it was difficult because i didn't actually mind the idea. I knew how good he was, so the idea of him painting me was sounding real nice. "Yusuke, you just met the lady, yo-" "Sure." "-u... Huh?" That stopped Makoto in her tracks. It even made the rest of the thieves pause too. Even Yusuke, who probably didn't expect for me to say yes. """""""WHAT!?""""""" "FUCK! MY EARS!" All the Phantom Thieves, and Irina shouted at the top of their lungs, and it really did hurt my ears. """"""""Sorry./Sorry Tara-oneesan."""""""" I just nodded and took my hands off of my ears. "Thank you. Anyway, what'll the modeling be like... What's your name Foxy?"

I saw Joker and Queen tense a bit at that, good. Yusuke's brain seemed to catch up, and he came closer to the booth. "My name is Yusuke Kitagawa, may i know your name?" "Sure, name's Tara Sakura. Nice to meet you Kitagawa." He smiled, and brought out a note pad from his back pocket. He sat back at the counter and just seemed to zone out as he looked up at me and his pad a few times. The rest of the thieves looked at him, and seemed to realize he wasn't going to respond for a bit, and took it from there. "How the hell'd that work?" Ryuji, my 3rd favorite thief said. And i could understand the exasperation. "Hey, i'm hot and i know it. Why shouldn't i show it off?" That got him. And i could tell he was staring to really look at me now. "Holy shit! You're built as hell!" "Ryuji! Language." "Oh come on Makoto, and didn't she just curse like a minute ago?" "Well yes, but i don't know her and i can't criticize her for it. Besides, it was justified. You on the other hand?" Ryuji just looked indignant at that.

As that was going on, the only other girl in the group looked at me, and i thought i saw something click into place. "Queen of the Valkyrie's!" "The fuck! How?!" How did i get recognized? Even Irina looked surprised at that. Ryuji pointed at me to Makoto, but she just shrugged. "You recognize her Ann?" Joker, for the first time spoke. I could see he was a little guarded, against me, but was hiding it well. Ann turned to him, and started to take out her phone. "Of course i do! Her grandmother makes these amazing clothes that my parents use, her mother works at Kuoh academy and some people call her the most beautiful member of the faculty, and Sakura-san here is called the 'Queen of the Valkyrie's' and her friends are 'The Queen's Court!' I'm a huge fan!" That makes an annoying amount of sense. The rest of the thieves, even Yusuke, looked interested in what Ann just said. "Kuoh academy? The prestigious school that was formerly an all girls school?" Of course Makoto would know that. Why not.

"Yup. But still, how'd I get recognized?" Ann was looking for something in her phone, and eventually found it. "There was a live-stream and follow-up article about a... Volleyball competition, and how you subbed in for a member when they were injured. My best-friend loved volleyball, so when she saw you take the field, take control of the team and win the match? She was inspired! Can i get an autograph or a pic with you for her?" Ah. I remember what she's talking about. That was like, our 1st year at Kuoh and i decided to stay in the reserves. It was kind of unfair to have a dragon on the team, but i made sure to limit myself to base-human strength during events like that. "Sure. Want me to stand or want it to be here in the booth?" She bit her lip, and thought about it. "Think we can do a group photo?" I looked over to Irina, who seemed to have the smuggest grin i've ever seen on her. "You want in on this Irina?" "Sure thing Tara-oneesan."

So we got up. When Irina got up, they didn't react much. But when i got up? Taller then them all and clearly built with compact muscles and definition all over? Ann looked starstruck, Makoto seemed interested in my physique, Ryuji seemed a little embarrassed, Yusuke seemed even more enthusiastic at my agreement to model, and Joker? He seemed to be evaluating me. Interesting. "You look amazing! How'd you get so toned?" I smiled at her and joined up with them with Irina by my side. "My granddad. When i was a kid, he'd come over for his anniversary with our grandma. There's a park in Kuoh that we go to and one day when i was 5, he was doing his usual exercises and routine, and i joined him. He didn't stop me, and a few years later, he decides to give me, my mom and my twin sister training for and i quote 'grief over the men that you'll have faun over you.' And we've been training ever since." I heard Boss snort at the reason.

"Sounds like something he'd do. The man always did like to mention his grand children whenever we talked." That got the thieves attention. "You know him boss?" "Yeah, we met years ago. We still keep in touch." "Interesting. What style do you practice Sakura-san?" "[Renewal Taekwondo] And some [ITF], but [Renewal Taekwondo is my strong point. Me and mom suck at [ITF] but Martha's good with both styles." Makoto seemed VERY interested now. She was when she asked the question, but i could see her thinking about it. "For real! That sounds so badass! What's it like?" "Hmm. The first time i kicked a tree in half using [Renewal Taekwondo], Martha scolded me since she was busy doing something else, and the tree falling broke her concentration. Mom just laughed at me, but that feeling of success was worth it." Ryuji seemed amazed, and the rest of the thieves, including boss were too.

Me and Irina got in place, and Ann snapped out of it and snapped the group photo. "If you want, we could trade contact info. Something like that's a treasure and i bet my mom would like you. She's weak to compliments." When i said treasure, i saw Joker and Queen stiffen again, and it was so fun to see it. The rest of the thieves didn't catch it, but i know they did. And Morgana did too, seeing as Joker's bag shifted. "I'd love too!" "Would that offer extend to me as well Sakura-san?" Sure thing... I never got your name. I got Makoto, but that was it." She realized it too, and introduced herself. "My apologies. My name is Makoto Nijima, 3rd year at Shujin Academy and current student council president." "Nice. My sister's best-friend is our student pres, seeing you reign the numbskull in is just like looking at Sona." "Oou! I can see that. It's like whenever Tsubasa-chan asks you for a spar first thing in the morning and Sona-san has to drag her away."

I blinked... Yeah, that fit. "The last time she did that was like 2 weeks ago, why do you remember that Irina?" "Because it was hilarious. Tsubasa-chan's taller then her, so watching her be dragged away is great." I could get that. I nodded at that, put in my number in both girls phones, and sat back at our booth, and the thieves retook the seats by the counter. So, what brings you here Sakura-san and..." "Irina Shidou! Nice to meet you mr?" "Akira Kurusu. And it's nice to meet you too Shidou-san." Cool. Now i could finally stop thinking of him as just Joker, and split the two. "Anyway, to answer your question Kurusu, we're here to relax. My sister Martha, pointed this place out and we all loved it, so we'll be dropping in daily. We'll probably still visit when our vacation's over. Boss makes a mean Red Eye, if i read Martha right, which i always do, so her and our other sister Rias, should be dropping in whenever we're free."

"You have more sisters? Do you have any photos i may observe Sakura-san?" "Hmm? Sure thing Kitagawa. Give me a sec." I took out my phone, and opened it up to check my gallery. I knew i had pictures with all of us whenever our birthdays passed, just had to find the most recent one. A few seconds later, and i found one with mom behind us, me on Rias' right and Martha on her left. We were all in these toga style dresses, and i knew this would be perfect. "Here you go Kitagawa." I passed my phone over to him, and the rest of the thieves, including boss from behind the counter, huddled up to check it. I heard boss whistle again, Ryuji looked like he'd need help getting his jaw off the ground, Ann looked amazed, Makoto did too, and Akira had a small blush. But Yusuke? He looked at the photo and i could see the gears turning in his mind.

"Yes! This! This is the style my painting must be. Sakura-san do you have any garments similar to this?" I had to think about it. Did Rias buy me something like that? Probably. Did i take it with me? Hell if i knew. I packed a bunch of clothes. "I'll need to get back to you on that. But if i don't, we planned on going shopping when Rias came over. That should be in 2, 3 days max... I probably jinxed myself so let's say 5 days max. After that, i should be good to model for you. I might not be able to go right on the day Rias comes, since we plan on raiding Akihabara, but i'll be good after." I know for a fact it was Futaba squealing, since as soon as i said 'Akihabara' the squeal was way more excited. "Understandable. That will also give me enough time to prepare my equipment and buy any supplies i may need. Will you be alright if i asked for your contact information as-well?" "Sure thing. Though be careful, i'm not liable for any broken bones caused by my boyfriend." He seemed to shudder for some reason, but i just shrugged it off.

"Aww man! Why're all the hot girls taken." We all just stopped, and looked at Ryuji. He seemed to realize what he'd just done after Ann and Makoto sent glares at him. "Hoo boy, Not your smartest move there now was it kid?" Ryuji started to panic, and looked at Akira. "Sorry Ryuji, but you did this to yourself." "... Mona?" Said cat burst from the bag, and gave him the look. "You dug your own grave skull, now lie in it!" "Awww, he's adorable!" Irina pretty much jumped at him. One moment she's in-front of me in the booth, the next she's petting him. And he started purring! "Irina, not even a day and you're cheating on Natsu. How could you!" I think i heard Futaba choke in her room. Irina just seemed to freeze, and i grinned. Since the cat was out of the bag, hah! I decided to call for Natsu to appear outside of the cafe. I grinned as i got up and walked over to the door, knowing that the thieves were all staring at me in confusion.

I opened the door, then bent down when Natsu appeared from a close by alley. I picked my little boy up and put him on my head, and walked back in. Irina was still frozen, and Natsu saw what she was doing. He let out this whine. This betrayed whine, which i knew was fake, and Irina melted. "N-no! It's not what it looks like Natsu!" Futaba was outright cackling in her room, and the other thieves were trying to hold it together, and slowly failing. "Oh come on, this is a restaurant. Even if he's cute, you can't bring pets in here." I turned to Boss, and i could see the moment Natsu brought out the puppy dog eyes, which were extra effective since he was not only a puppy, but an adorable one. The girls melted, and Boss was wagging a losing war. He fought valiantly, but he fell after a minute. "Haaa. Fine. Just make sure he doesn't get hairs everywhere." "You got it Bossman!" And Natsu barked in agreement.

That was it for the girls. Ann and Makoto just appeared in-front of me, and i gently picked up Natsu and gave him to them. He was a little confused, but didn't mind it after they started to play with him. Irina just looked dejected since Natsu wouldn't look at her, he'd forget about in an hour, max, and just went back to petting Mona. Who was looking at Natsu like his arch-enemy. Which was a thought that made me snort. I made my way back to the booth, and sat down as the guys watched Natsu get spoiled rotten. I looked at them, and turned to Ryuji, since he was the second to last one i didn't 'know' the name of. "So what bout you soon to be dead guy? What's your name?" He didn't deny my moniker, and just sighed. "Name's Ryuji Sakamoto... And since she's busy, the fan-girl is Ann Takamaki." "Nice. So, what do you guys do around here for fun? Irina and i just checked into our hotel today and just walked around Shibuya for a bit. Didn't really do much else 'till we got hungry and came here."

The boys, minus Mona and Yusuke, shared a look and seemed to think about it. "There's the arcade i usually hang-out at when i'm not doing anything. Then there's the amusement park with the pancakes, and a few good ramen shops i know." "Cool. What about you Kurusu? Whatcha got for me?" He seemed to think a bit more, then decided on what to say. "The underground mall has shops that are bound to have something you'd all like. There's Kichijoji which has a place we all hang out at, there's pool, darts, and some other games you might enjoy. There's even a batting cage around here if you'd want to try that." Interesting... But why does Kichijoji ring a bell with me? Oh well, future me problem. "Hmm... I don't think i've taught Rias or Irina how to play pool... I'll definitely check that out later... Hmm. How about you guys show us around, and we can all hang-out while we're here." I could see Joker narrow his eyes, and contemplate it, and then he nodded.

"Sure. It'll be interesting seeing a Valkyrie Queen in a new habitat." I laughed at that. "Well then, looks like we've got a deal Kurusu." After i said that, i felt it. It was like a knock off of a knock off of mine and Martha's link. I could feel something connect me to Akira, and i thought i heard something. "I am thou, thou art i. Thou hast acquired a new vow. It shall become the wings of rebellion that breakth thy chains of captivity. With the birth of the Queen of Swords persona, i have obtained the winds of blessing that should lead to freedom and new power." And then it was gone. "So that's what that feels like. Weird." I didn't really mean to whisper that, but Joker caught it, and i saw his eyes widen as he realized what i was talking about. "Anyway, i'll give you guys my number so you guys can let me know, or when i let you guys know i'm free. That work?" "Sure! Man, i can't wait to see you kick a tree." I laughed. Ryuji was great!

Akira still looked a little surprised, but he schooled his expression and gave me a smile. Though i still saw the surprise and caution in his eyes. The rest of our time flew by, and eventually the group had to break off. Irina and i left, after Irina gave the girls her contact, after Makoto did, so i didn't give Akira a chance to ask me anything, and just gave him a smile as we walked out of the door. Irina was humming and skipping the entire way, Natsu forgave her after 15 minutes, and they were cuddle buddies once again. "That was great! I'm pretty sure those are our first friends that aren't a part of the supernatural. It's awesome." I had to hide the grin from Irina. She was half right with that. They were part of the supernatural, just not a side she knew of. Though they were all human, minus Mona of course. So that was something. "And we even get to hang-out. Tara-oneesan, this is going to be the best vacation ever!" "Now don't go jinxing us Irina." She just stuck her tongue out at me, and skipped a bit more forward.

We made our way back to the hotel, and spent the rest of our day there. At some point, the girls had made a group chat and put me into it when i wasn't paying attention. I only noticed it when Irina called out to me while i was taking a shower. "Tara-nee! Makoto-chan wants to know if you'd join her at the gym tomorrow. And Ann-chan asked if she could come too!" "Sure! Are you coming too or did you have something else planned?!" "I'm coming too!" "Alright! Let em know!" "Already done!" Then she showed me the group chat, and i talked with the girls for a bit before we started to get tired. I got in bed, and Irina followed as we went under the covers and i let my wings cover her. The door was locked so we were fine. {Met the thieves by the way.} {Interesting. How'd that go?} {One of them recognized me from an event from our 1st year. That and she's a fan of mom and grandma.} {Interesting. Anything else?} {I became one of Joker's confidants.} {... What?} {It's the social aspect of the game. Didn't i tell you about it?} {Mostly. But re-explain. Was it the same as it was in-game?} {Sort of. I could hear and feel when the connection was made, and i know he did too, but it felt weird.} {Weird how?} {It felt like this really really really really cheap version of our link.} {Hmm... Interesting. Anything else i should know?}

I thought about it for a bit. {I'm going to model for Yusuke.} I'm pretty sure she fell or at-least stubbed her toe when i said that. {Tara... Explain.} {He took one look at me and asked me to be his model. I said yes and then things went from there.} {... What kind of model?} {Remember the Toga's from that one birthday Rias had?} {...Yes i do. Are you going to be wearing a Toga?} {Yup. Though i forgot to check if i packed one or something like it.} {How do you not know if you packed a Toga?} {Rias bought me a whole new wardrobe Martha! I just packed clothes that i knew i liked and went from there!} {Ughhh. And if it isn't there?} {Then we go shopping again when Rias is here.} {... You want to go shopping... With Rias... Again?} Shit... She kind of had a point. {I mean... We were going to go shopping for swimsuits anyway, that's just 2 birds with a stone right there.} {Sure. Keep telling yourself that Tara.} I just silently groaned, and started to close my eyes. {Anyway, goodnight Martha. Love you.} {Goodnight Tara. I love you too.} And i fell asleep.

(Akira Kurusu/Joker's POV before and after Tara and Irina left}

Akira Kurusu would have to say, ever since coming to Tokyo, it was one thing after another. After the sham trial, he just wanted to lay low and go about his life. And then he went to Shujin. And the very 1st day he did, his entire world changed. The metaverse, palaces, treasure's... Persona's. The Phantom Thieves. His life went from one extreme to the other, and he couldn't say he'd regretted it. Since his awakening, he'd met his best-friend, even if Ryuji was a bit dense. A mentor and friend in Morgana. Women he could trust and rely on in Ann and Makoto. Even Yusuke and his eccentric self was one of his closest friends. And even his non thief teammates were people he wouldn't give up on. The doctor next door and a woman he might be developing a crush on. A teacher turned maid, for a reason he wasn't entirely sure of yet, he just knew the 'sister' was a lie. A air-soft shop owner with a past. A politician trying to redeem himself. His guardian and a man that was teaching him to make the best curry Akira had ever had, and brew a mean cup of coffee with it. He was still annoyed at the woman who scammed him, but kept an open mind.

Even the drunk reporter he met and sacrificed Mashima too. Mashima, the one forced into leaking his record, was becoming a friend. Then there was the shogi player he'd met in church. They were all either becoming friends or becoming closer to him. Even the school councilor and the cute gymnast of a underclassmen were becoming fast friends with him. But the closest of all, his team. The people he trusted to have his back and those who trusted him to do the same. He was their leader, their Joker. They trusted each other and he reciprocated. When he first figured out the Velvet Room, he told his teammates. And when Queen had joined them, they began strategizing around what persona's he could create, what their weaknesses and strengths were in-case they were ever encountered, and what they needed. That would change with other members they may gain or the current palace they were in, but they kept the planning sessions going.

So when he noticed the woman known as Tara Sakura, no relation to his guardian which was a surprise they had the same surname and he knew their grandfather, began to drop hints that she KNEW, Joker made the decision to tell his team. Then when she realized she became a confidant? Joker was partway to having a stroke! That had NEVER happened. He had to wait to tell them of course, but in the time they took to leave, he felt he got a good read on her. Tara seemed protective and a family woman. He had no intention of antagonizing her or Irina, the cheery girl who meshed well with Ann, and he still wouldn't antagonize her if she wasn't capable of breaking him like a twig. Her boast of kicking a tree in half had put him on guard. Sure, they were Phantom Thieves, but that was only in the metaverse. Despite his runs with Ryuji, the only one with some form of combat ability was Makoto, and Ryuji to some levels. If he WERE to antagonize the woman, he had no doubt Tae would have to put him together again.

After she left, Akira heaved a sigh of relief, and relaxed. "You doing ok Joker? You seemed extra stressed." He looked at Morgana, and motioned his head towards the stairs. Morgana understood, and went back into his bag. Which would be strange to him if he hadn't gotten used to it. His life had definitely become strange when he didn't bat an eye to the thought of telling his talking cat to get back in the bag. Makoto had already left, and Ann and Ryuji were next. Yusuke had gone afterwards, excitedly talking about how much he looked forward to painting Tara, and wasn't THAT a surprise. The last time that situation had come up, they ended up having to steal Madarame's heart in order to not be arrested. Fox joining them had been a strange turn of events that he was unsure they could ever replicate. But now? Someone that willingly chose to accept the prospect of modeling for someone they met not even 10 seconds ago? Sure, why not? Akira let out an exasperated sigh at the thought.

"Hmm... It's been a long time since there's been a group that big in here... It felt nice. I'll need to thank the young lady's sister again the next time she's in here." That got Akira's attention." Again? "Sakura-san's sister was here too?" Boss turned to him and stroked his chin. "Yeah. Real nice woman. She was the calm one and her sisters the loud and brash one. There's always twins like that. Anyway, she messaged her sister she'd drop by, and a few minutes later, she did. She had a Red Eye, remind me to teach you how to make those, and the 4 of us just talked. I couldn't believe it when she told me she was the youngest. When i told her i thought she was older, she just turned to her sister and smirked. Some inside joke there. But yeah, i let her have a Red Eye on the house, but she still paid for it after she left. Even dumped the job of making her sister buy souvenirs. It was a nice lighthearted moment. New customers are always a good thing, them being related to an old acquaintance is an added bonus."

Hmm. Akira took that in, and filed it away for later. They'd already gone over Sojiro knowing their grandfather while Tara was still there, but the younger sister being there was an interesting bit to know. "Got it. Need any help cleaning up?" "Sure thing kid." And that's how Akira spent the rest of his afternoon. Sojiro was in a good mood from not only earning more then usual, but from gaining new regulars he liked. They had good conversation, and eventually it was time to head to bed. Mona was already waiting for him, and sat by his side when Akira sat on the 'bed.' "So, did you catch what she was saying?" "Yeah. at-least 4 subtle hints of knowing who we are. What do you think Morgana?" Morgana looked at his leader, and Akira could tell he was thinking hard on this. "Let's put together everything we know first, then go from there." Joker straightened and clasped his hands in his lap.

"Name, Tara Sakura. Family, Mother, Grandmother and Grandfather are all people that we can look up, and her grandfather knew Sojiro from his active days. Her grandmother is a fashion designer famous for her 'Ascalon' line of clothing and accessories. Mother is a faculty member of Kuoh academy, a prestigious institution with a high rate of graduation and a good percentage of their alumni are able to earn well paying jobs or good positions in government, education and medical institutions. Sisters, a blood related twin by the name of Martha Sakura who, 'told her about this place from an ad' and was personally here and interacted with Sojiro. 2 unrelated sisters by the name of Irina Shidou and Rias Gremory. From looking it up, it's said the Gremories own at-least one major corporation, but they may own numerous others. Irina seems to be the cheerful and optimistic type, but there seems to be some hidden grudge or emotions against something.

Rias Gremory, not enough information to get any accurate read on her. Said to be coming by next week at the latest. Affiliations, unknown. Source of information of our activities, unknown. Threat assessment, very high but conflict can be easily avoided. Mentions of 2 forms of Martial Arts, video footage provided by Ann and physical fitness corroborate her being a threat to us outside of the metaverse. Showed recognition at creating an Arcana link-" "WHAT!" Joker stopped his assessment, and looked to Morgana. "Yes. When her Arcana 'The Queen of Swords' was created, she said 'so that's what that feels like' and changed the subject." Morgana blinked at Akira, and looked thoughtful. "That's... That's not one of the major Arcana. I don't recognize it." Akira nodded. "Yeah, neither did i. So before i was done helping Sojiro, i looked it up. It's meant to be a minor Arcana, but if it's read in the future, it could mean 'Showing you the way.' Whatever that means. She's dangerous, we don't know how much she knows, how strong she really is, or anything else. But, i have a feeling."

Morgana nodded, and looked to his leader. Joker, once again, straightened and regained his position. "She can be an ally. I can feel it. There's something different about her and that might give us an edge. I even checked what her Arcana does for us, and the rank 1 ability seems vague, but it gives me a good idea of what she will mean for us." "Really? What's the ability?" "It and i quote 'Shall make it slightly easier for you and your party to make it to your destination.' What that means can be open to interpretation. If we want our destination to be, let's say a safe room, will we instinctively know how to get there quicker, or will it be safer? If it works either of those ways, then her confidant will make our expeditions in the metaverse safer for all of us. It might even work in mementos." "Interesting. Very interesting. Alright, now that we've got that settled, it's time to fill in the team." Joker nodded, and opened up the Phantom Thieves group chat.

-Group Chat-

A.K- Is everyone up? Me and Mona finished going over the newest Confidant and want to let everyone know what we've come up with.

R.S - Oh shit! She became a confidant? When'd that happen?

Y.K - I would also like to know when the moment occurred.

M.N - We should perhaps let Akira speak first. He will tell us when we start. Right now, we're just waiting for Ann.

A.T -Huh? Oh, sorry i was planning on what to wear tomorrow for the gym.

R.S -Whoa, going to the gym? Did seeing Sakura-san make you jealous?

A.T - Shut it Ryuji! Us girls have decided to go together, and that includes Sakura and Shidou-chan. Anyway, aren't we supposed to be talking about something important?

R.S - Oh shit, yeah! My bad, you're good to go Akira!

A.K - Cool. Now then, from what we've gotten, Sakura-san seems to be different. Instead of one of the Major Arcana, she has and noticed as it did, awoken to a minor Arcana. 'The Queen of Swords' an Arcana that may 'show us the way.' Which her 1st rank ability does just that. 'Shall make it slightly easier for you and your party to make it to your destination.' Morgana and i have thought of the implications, and i'm curios as to how her future abilities will support us.

Alibaba - Huh... Considering who she looks like, that's an interesting Arcana.

A.K - Hello Alibaba. 2 Questions. Are you affiliated with any member of Tara Sakura's family, and what do you mean by that?

Alibaba - No i am not. And do you seriously not see it? She looks and sounds exactly like a character from an anime called Fairy Tail. Her sister, the twin, does also. Tara Sakura has an identical resemblance to Erza Scarlet. Her sister also has a identical resemblance to Irene Belserion. A daughter mother pair. Erza Scarlet was known as the Titania, the Fairy Queen, while Irene Belserion was a Queen of Dragons and the creator of a school of magic meant to slay them. Here Image,txt. Image,txt.

Alibaba - The only differences are their heights and physiques. Erza Scarlet and Irene Belserion did not break 6'. Tara Sakura is 6 inches taller and is more physically fit then Erza Scarlet, While Martha Sakura is an inch taller then Irene Belserion and also more physically fit. They both also have a bigger bust and backside then both of their anime counterparts. This is all natural as they have never been given any form of surgery in order to look like said characters or increase their sizes.

A.K - I feel as if that last bit was unnecessary, but thank you for the information nonetheless Alibaba.

Alibaba - Whatever. I'm out now, peace.

- Alibaba has left the chatroom -

M.N - ... Well then. Now that it was mentioned, i've looked up both characters and with the images provided by Alibaba, cannot un-see the resemblance. I'm also finding irony in their titles at Kuoh. As Ann mentioned earlier, Sakura-san is called the 'Queen of the Valkyries' while her sister is called 'The Valkyrie Queen's Knight.' The irony is not lost on me and i doubt it is to them either.

A.T - It really is funny... But now that i think about it... How'd they get those titles anyway? Do you know Makoto?

M.N - If my source is to believed right... On the 1st day of their 1st year of the high-school division of Kuoh Academy, Tara Sakura ran into the gym dragging one Rias Gremory and Akeno Himejima, behind her and shouted and i quote 'FIGHT ME MOM!' due to her boredom. They sparred during the P.E period, and her sister was called in to drag her away.

- Alibaba has entered the chatroom -

Alibaba - NO WAY! ARE YOU SERIOUS! SRANIOZRJRDT, THAT'S FUCKING AMAZING!

A.K -Is there any reason why you'd say that?

Alibaba - Her dog. The cute little guy that he is, is named Natsu. NATSU! The main character of Fairy Tail, a pink haired dragon slayer who loves to fight and continuously challenges anyone to a fight by shouting 'FIGHT ME!' This is amazing! Anyway, peace again!

- Alibaba has left the chatroom -

R.S - ... Damn. Maybe i should watch Fairy Tail.

A.T - Maybe we could bring it up to her tomorrow. The title thing, not the watching Fairy Tail thing. Though maybe we can bring it up too?

M.N - We may as-well. Anyway, back onto topic. Akira said something that caught my attention and i'd like to address it. Akira said 'noticed as she did' when he spoke of the confidant and Arcana of Sakura-san. Did i understand that correctly?

A.K - Yes you did. After her Arcana was linked, she said 'so that's what that feels like.' And went back to the conversation before i could say anything about it. This combined with her hints that she KNOWS who we are, paint a picture that's quite risky.

Y.K - Hints? What do you mean by that Akira?

M.N - During our conversation, Sakura-san made 4 hints to our identities. The 1st was a hint aimed at you Yusuke. She addressed you as FOXy. The 2nd hint was her calling Ryuji a numbSKULL. The 3rd hint was when she referred to the group photo as a TREASURE. The last hint was what Akira had mentioned. Did i get them all?

A.K Yes you did.

R.S - Whoa. I didn't even notice them.

A.T - Me neither.

Y.K - I hadn't paid much mind to the talking if i'm to be perfectly honest. I was too absorbed in the image my next work was to be.

R.S - Speaking about that, can we just mention how out of nowhere her accepting that was? I mean, she's right about her being hot and wanting to show it off, but that still threw me off when she said yes.

M.N - It's safe to say it threw us all off. I never expected anyone Yusuke asked would ever agree, especially when that was the first thing that's said to them.

Y.K - I feel as if i was slighted, but i will endeavor to ignore it.

A.T - At-least she won't have to go nude.

Y.K - I believe i've apologized for my conduct enough.

R.S - Yeah you have. Just don't ask her to go nude and we won't need to pick the pieces off the ground.

Y.K - I cannot tell if that is a figurative or literal saying in this instance.

A.T - Huh... I can't either.

A.K - As funny and worrying as that train of thought is, we've gotten very off course. For now, i think we should call it a night, and wait for tomorrow. After the girls are done with their day at the gym, and if she's free to hang-out later, we can talk more about this. For now, let's all get some shut-eye.

A.T - Got it!

R.S - Heard you loud and clear!

Y.K - Goodnight to all and swell dreams my friends.

M.N - Goodnight everyone.

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