Promises, Vows, and Rings

Ah, there you are, Aldo. Sorry for calling you here out of the blue.

No worries. So what did you want?

You see, I got a letter from Lucniva a few days ago. They appear to be in need of some Migradrite.

Migradrite?

Oh yeah, I remember! That's the ore you can sometimes mine from our underground caves, right?

But why do they need that?

There's an old sword of blessing at a wedding hall near the village. They want to use the Migradrite to repair it.

Is that right? I had not realized there was a wedding hall in the village.

We haven't stopped by in a while... I gotta admit, I'm a little curious about this hall...

Hohoho... Then this is perfect. Mayor Sethka mentioned he wanted to see you all.

Really? Sethka wants to see us?

So it would seem. I heard their village is a peaceful place now, all thanks to you. So he'd love for you to visit. And while you're at it, could you run this little errand for me?

A peaceful Lucniva. It is similar to a before and after reality show. My gears are overheating with excitement!

Okay. We'll help you out with the ore.

You'll really do that for me? Then here's the Migradrite.

Thanks for doin' this for me, and take care on your journey!

Hearing about Lucniva again brings back many a memory.

Same, I hope they're all doing well.

That did it.

You got this down, leader!

Joker, Mona! I'm still getting Shadow signatures!

There's so many! We need someone to cover those two!

I'll go!

We got this!

Right! Let's finish this!

Thanks, Violet.

It was nothing!

What else do you expect from a top athlete like her?

The rhythmic gymnasts are on a whole 'nother level when it comes to beauty and strength.

It's a shame Crow isn't here. He said he had "things" to do today.

It looks like we're in pretty deep here.

What do you want to do, Violet? If you wanna carry on, we'll go with you.

Why of course! I want to improve my skills here in Mementos so I can catch up to you all!

Well, let's make that wish come true! But don't think you can rely on us for everything!

Huh? I'm getting a signal coming from up ahead.

What's wrong, Oracle?

Huh, there's no signal now. It must've been my imagination.

Then let's get going!

Mona, wait!

Where are we? It feels different from before.

It does look like Mementos...

But look...

Huh? Panther?

I didn't say anything.

Was that a woman's voice?

I heard a voice.

I heard it, too!

Was it a Shadow?

We're so close to it yet I'm not getting any signal! How is that possible?!

Is it a bride? But why?

What... Why am I...

Huh?

Who or what are you?!

Ah?!

Oh no you don't!

Whoa?!

Skull!

The attack went straight through it?!

The signal's coming from over there. The Shadow's right in front of us!

What do you mean?

I've never seen a Shadow like this before.

What do we do? Do we fight it?!

I...am...

The signal's disappeared.

What do you mean?

That's...

A flower?

It's a Solania flower!

Sola...nia?

N...

Whoa?! What's with this hole?!

Is it just me, or does anyone else feel like they've seen this before?

Now that you mention it, I'm getting the same feeling.

What do you think, Joker?

I believe the Solania flower is trying to guide us, just like last time. We should go through the hole.

What's this about a flower guiding us?

I don't understand it myself, but I had the feeling Joker was gonna say that.

It's weird, but me too.

Agreed. This Solania flower or whatever came from the bride-like Shadow and then this hole suddenly appeared... This can't all just be a coincidence.

If it's guiding us like Joker said, then I, for one, want to find out what this is all about.

Argh! I feel like a have a vague memory of this, but it's just not clearing up!

At least we might find a clue on how to defeat that Shadow just now.

What do you want to do, Violet? If we go through, there's no guarantee we'll be able to get back out again. Do you want to stay behind? It's up to you.

You see, Joker...

We don't have much time. I'm reading a drop in energy levels coming from the hole!

Let's go. I came to Mementos to train. And thanks to you guys, that's what I'm gonna do.

It's settled then. Let's go!

Phew! We're finally here. I'd almost forgotten how far this place is.

Now I really wish Mona was here to give us a ride again.

Still...

The village folk appear to be in fine health.

Yeah, I hardly recognize them.

The villagers' vital signs are stable. Village is in peace mode!

Then let's take the Migradrite to Sethka.

Hey, long time no see, Sethka.

Well look who we have here! I'm so pleased you decided to visit us again!

You appear to be doing well. And the village looks to be in fine shape.

That's all thanks to everyone's efforts. All the villagers are working hard to rebuild. I tried to resign as mayor, but everyone pushed me into continuing my work. I'm so grateful to them.

Oh, this won't do at all! We must begin preparations for a welcome party!

Y-You don't need to go to all that trouble!

Actually, I heard you needed this.

Oh! This is the Migradrite I asked the Mayor of Baruoki to get me! Not only did you come to visit, you brought me a gift!

Now we can repair the sword! We should make it in time, thanks to you.

This sword is in your wedding hall, right? So when you say "make it in time" do you mean someone's getting married?

That's right! There's going to be a wedding ceremony pretty soon. The whole village will be celebrating.

The whole village, you say? Are the bride and groom connected to this village, perchance?

Indeed. The bride is from the village. Her partner is a nobleman with a mansion in the capital. They chose to have their wedding in the village rather than the capital in order to keep the bride calm.

However...

Is something the matter, Mayor Sethka?

I have terrible news, Sethka! It's the boy...

Good heavens, it's you all!

My word, if it isn't Sethka's mother! I do apologize for our lack of contact.

It has been a while, hasn't it? Just look at my son, this is all thanks to you all.

My, we can't have this! We must prepare for a welcome party!

Haha... Sethka really does take after his mother, I see.

But what was that you were saying about some boy?

Ah, you see, we recruited a guard for the ceremony, but we're concerned about his physical condition.

We told him someone else should do it. We can't have a gap in our security, can we? But no good...

This sounds like an important ceremony to you. So, if we managed to plug this gap in your security, would that help?

Huh? Erm, well, I suppose so... Are you really offering?!

You're darn right we are. You're a good guy, you deserve some help.

There's no way I could ask our village's saviors to do that.

Don't worry about it. People need to help each other, right? So what exactly was this guy supposed to be guarding?

Umm... The bride, actually.

As a female unit myself, I would like to understand the state of mind of a young bride prior to her wedding!

It would seem we were fated to come to the village today. I shall accompany Aldo.

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't interested. I'm happy to help as long as I get to watch the ceremony.

See, Sethka, everyone's happy to help. So there's no need to worry, is there?

Everyone, I don't know how to thank you!

You do too much for us.

So, where is the blushing bride, then?

Let's see... Her dress fitting should be over soon. That's happening on the north end of the village.

In which case, it must be close to the statue.

The bride's name is Theresia, the rest I leave to you.

How hard could this be? We'll head there right away!

Hmm...

Where are we?

Is everyone okay? This sure isn't where I thought we'd end up. We were in a forest last time...

Last time? It doesn't look so strange, though. This is Mementos?

This is Lucniva Village.

Lucniva Village... This is a village?! Who says "village" this days?

I know the feeling, but Mona's telling the truth.

This isn't our world.

It's not?

You're all so calm because you've been here before.

Before we went through that hole, my memory of this was so hazy. But now I remember everything.

The hole we went into is...

GONE! It's disappeared!

Calm down. We knew that would happen. But we managed to get back last time.

Always the confident one, Skull.

Our mission is to find a way to defeat that bride-looking Shadow.

Simply attacking it didn't work. It suddenly disappeared before, but we might not be so lucky next time.

We've got to do something about it. It's bad news for us if there are enemies out there we can't beat.

Queen's right. Even I couldn't figure out that thing. If we don't have a strategy the next time we find it, we're done for.

Last time, we worked everything out by finding the Solania flower. If we do the same this time...

What's wrong, Mona?

Last time, there was a spooky voice, right?! I haven't heard anything like that this time yet!

You're right, I didn't hear anything coming from the hole this time. What does that mean for us?

I'm gonna check out the area and see what's around!

Hey! Violet!

Jeez... She's such an eager beaver.

Looks like she's heading into the village. It's that okay? She doesn't know the area.

We'd better follow her.

You know guys, we only heard the bride's name... Do you think we'll be able to find her?

Such concerns are not required! The bride will be wearing a wedding dress.

Sethka's mother said the dress fitting should be over about now. If she's still wearing the dress, she should be easy to spot.

Shall we split up and search? With the four of us, I dare say we'll find her soon enough.

You're right... Then let's each search a different place.

Let me see, where have I looked around...

What's this? I see something over there!

Investigating sure takes a lot of legwork!

All I need is a clue...

Nothing here. What about over there?

Huh?

There's a strange figure in my midst... Perhaps a troublemaker? Or, are you the bride?!

A frog walking on its hind legs?! It must be a Shadow!

A Shadow? Now that word surely takes me back! Why would you speak of such a thing, young bride?

Me? A bride?

Hey, Violet! You shouldn't be going off on your own on like that...

Look who we have here...

You're lookin' well, Cyrus.

Mona?

No luck over here, Cyrus but...

Huh, Joker?! And the Phantom Thieves?!

Long time no see, Aldo.

Seriously! Wait here! I'll call everyone over!

I had no idea you were a friend of the Phantom Thieves. Please forgive me, Mr. Cyrus!

It's no trouble at all, I assure you. I have grown accustomed to these things. But I must say, there's no need to address me as "mister."

Any friend of my companions deserves respect.

Under such honorific logic, I am Miss Riica!

You don't get to call yourself that...

It's understandable, Violet. I mean, it's not every day you see a walking talking frog.

How could you say such a thing, Mona?! I'd expect better from you, my good sir!

Hehe... I see nothing's changed.

Right back at ya. I'm glad to see you're looking good.

I never thought we'd run into you here! If only I had my sketchbook! I'd just drawn something based on our last trip.

I'm so happy to see you again. But I thought you went back home? What are you doing in our world again?

The Solania flower guided us here.

Really? The Solania flower?

A Shadow appeared in Mementos that we couldn't defeat. Our attacks went right through it, and it disappeared without leaving any clue on how to defeat it.

But then a Solania flower fell to the ground where the Shadow had been.

And as soon as Joker picked it up, a hole appeared, just like last time. We jumped in, and ended up in the village.

Is that so? It appears to me that us coming to this village at the exact same time must be some kind of sign.

There's going to be a wedding in the village soon. We were asked to protect the bride. So does that mean anything to you?

Wait a minute... A bride you say?! Could that be a coincidence?

That bride? She could be the one we need to defeat.

What?! What on earth do you mean?!

Eeeeek! Are you okay, Theresia?!

What was that? Did someone just say Theresia?!

There is one hit for the name "Theresia" in my memory bank. It is the bride's name, as told to us by Mayor Sethka!

We can leave that till later! Right now, we've got to find out what's happened!

We're going with you!

Ouch! What luck, falling from a tree like that...

Are you hurt, Theresia? That's why I warned you.

I'm fine... Something must've come over me.

All the city-living must've made me weak.

I know her face!

Huh? You mean me?

She has the same face as the bride Shadow we met in Mementos.

I give up. Do you think you could help out with this balloon?

We can't just turn our backs now.

You got this down, leader!

That was unbelievable! How'd you jump so high?!

You can't just let go of something so important.

Right! Thanks!

Joker...

Allow me to thank you as well. I'm Theresia. And umm... Who might you be?

I'm Joker.

Nice to meet you, Joker. Dressed like that... You must be a magic troupe that's come for the wedding?

......

We were asked to guard the bride who's getting married here. You're her, right?

Well, yes. Did Mayor Sethka ask you to guard me?

That must mean the other guy quit...

The other guy?

Oh, it's nothing! I was talking to myself! It's just, I told Mayor Sethka I didn't need any protection. Though, I'm kinda glad. It's so exhausting being surrounded by adults. I think we're about the same age. It's not long till the ceremony, and I appreciate your help!

Client consent confirmed. What is our plan of action?

Well, I've finished my dress fitting...

Perhaps we should go back to Germain and let him know everything's going fine.

I'm guessing this Germain is your soon-to-be husband, right?

Yep, that's right. Will you escort me now?

But of course. We are sworn to our duties!

We'll be accompanying you, but please act like usual.

Hehehe, thank you.

Germain's at my parents' house right now. It's this way, come on!

Theresia's got to be that Shadow we fought before.

Her face is exactly the same. There's no way it couldn't be her.

Which means we've got a problem.

Yes, we have. If Aldo and his friends are protecting Theresia... Then we might have to get through them to defeat her.

Oh, I see what you mean.

Then what are we gonna do?

All we can do now is go after them.

Skull's right. There's no point in standing around, is there?

Let's follow them for now.

Is that right? You've been here before? Which means you must be the village heroes that Mayor Sethka was talking about! He did say you looked peculiar...

All we did was give him a little push to change. It was really all thanks to the Phantom Thieves.

So you saved the world on this side too? And here I thought you couldn't get any cooler!

We heard you were living in the city until recently, Theresia.

That must be why we didn't run into you the last time we were in Lucniva.

Must have, there's no way we'd forget such a pretty face.

But who climbs trees just before their wedding?

You might've been shut-in the city, but isn't that a bit much?

Hehe... I can't help it. My body decides these things on its own.

Logic says that she can't ignore those in need. Similar to someone else we know.

I also know someone like that.

Me too. Someone far more kind-hearted than I am...

Oh, Theresia! You're back! You seem to have a larger entourage than when you left.

Is this who I think it is?

Yep, this is Germain. My fiancé.

These people are the guards Mayor Sethka arranged for me.

Not exactly...

I see, thank you for guarding my wife.

W-Wife?!

Error detected! At this point in time, Theresia's position is fiancée, not wife!

Haha, you're right. I got a little ahead of myself.

But would you look at the time? I've got to go make the wedding arrangements.

I'll go, too.

No, no, not after you've come all this way back home. You've got your guards. You leave this to me and go let loose.

Really? That sounds great!

Well then, if you will excuse me. Guards, please look after my dear Theresia.

He seems nice.

He has such a refined air. He must be from a good family.

Hmm... Sethka told us this, but I guess you Phantom Thieves hadn't heard.

Germain is the son and heir to the noble family that governs this region.

He's nobility?! So he's gotta be super rich, right?!

He didn't seem like he was looking down on us, like most powerful people do.

I feel like it's cheating to have both wealth and a good character.

Right? It feels like a dream for a humble village girl like me to be marrying such a man...

Oh, I forgot to say.

Congratulations on your wedding, Theresia.

Oh! Thanks, my cool personal guard.

Phew... That dress fitting really tired me out for some reason.

You don't mind if I have a little rest inside, do you? You can come rest inside too if you want.

We're happy to wait outside.

That's a shame. It would've been nice to chat to some other girls.

Let me know if you change your minds! See you later!

Hey, Joker. Didn't you say you needed to defeat the bride?

......

And what if we're planning to do so?

As Theresia's guard, I'm afraid we'll be forced to cross swords.

Hey guys...

So that's that, right? We're both here for the bride. So what've we got to lose by working together to find out what's going on?

But we're...

Joker said you helped a girl get her balloon back. Is that right? Sounds like you just can't ignore someone in need.

......

Joker is just the same guy that we fought Phantom with. That's why I trust the Phantom Thieves.

Aldo...

Besides... If there's a possibility of Shadows being involved, it's probably best we stick with the Phantom Thieves.

It would certainly be reassuring to have your strength on our side.

My calculations are showing that we should be acting in unison with the Phantom Thieves!

You see? The rest is up to you lot...

It's fine with me.

Phew... I'm glad that worked out! You had me in a sweat there...

I sense a rapid cooling process in my core parts.

Erm... Does that mean you were nervous?

Oh, are you in the middle of something?

Nope, everything's under control here! Did you get a good rest, Theresia?

Yes, thanks to you. But I've remembered I've got a little errand to run. Would you mind escorting me to the outskirts of the village?

The outskirts?

Sure, we can take you anywhere. Come on, let's go.

It should be around here...

I hate to ask, but would you mind hanging back a little?

Yeah, sure...

Once the wedding's over, I really can't come back here... Which is why, if it must end, it must be at this village.

So long, my...

Oh?! I am detecting a hostile energy signature on my radar!

This can't be? There's so many!

Monsters?!

They're after Theresia!

Vile scoundrels! My blade is ready!

Th-Thank you! You saved me...

Huh? Wait, there's more!

I have detected one Rhost! Scanning for location...

Eeeep!

Ever since long ago, my fears always seem to come true...

Ronny?!

Long time no see, Theresia. I barely recognized you.

How could you be so rash?!

Ngh!

Hey, are you okay?!

Your medicine? Haven't you been taking it?!

No, I've been taking it, but I'm still as you see.

I'm sorry for troubling you. Truth is, it was my job...

Are you the guy Sethka mentioned?

I've decided to go back. Looks like there's more than enough of you to take my place.

Look after Theresia for me, will you?

Ronny!

Thank you for helping me.

You don't need to thank me. I was just performing my duty. I wish you and Germain every happiness in your lives together.

......

Erm... Was that man your...

He's just a childhood friend.

He has incredible skill. There was something unnatural about the way he moved.

You mentioned medicine. Is something wrong with him?

Whoa, you just went right out and said that. You don't hold back, do you?

He's been in poor health his whole life. The medicine helps with his symptoms...

But it's been so long. He's such a good man, always helping me even though he's the one in pain...

Theresia...

Don't worry yourselves about it. Let's go back, I've done what I needed to do.

But to see him again at a time like this. It's almost like a joke...

The bell chime...

Now's not the time... Come on, we best be going.

Ngh! You all catch that?

Yes. I've detected an unstable signal.

It was Theresia's Shadow. It's already gone though.

Theresia?

Sorry, sorry! I got distracted by the bell.

Say, Theresia. Is something the matter?

Something the matter? No, everything's fine.

You mentioned the bell. Why?

No reason! Just when the bell starts chiming again, I'll be Germain's wife.

......

I need to get back to my future husband! It's high time we went back, right?

Do you think Theresia regrets agreeing to this marriage?

I have experience in these matters, and it sure seems that way.

Experience, you say?! You mean to say you've been betrothed? But you're so young...

Huh?! Noir... Is this true?!

I-It's not what you think!

Do you think there's some kind of problem, then?

If it's Theresia who's regretting the engagement, it must be a problem with her fiancé.

So it's about Germain?

We should run into him if we go with her... Should we do a little digging?

Hey, are you gonna escort me or what? I'm going ahead!

We should go with her. She'll be heading to her parents' house.

Welcome back, Theresia. And welcome back, guards.

Thanks.

Would you like some tea? I've just got back from finishing up the wedding arrangements myself.

I might take a bath. Today's been a strenuous day.

Good idea, you take it easy. I'll look after the guests.

You look tired. Did you go somewhere?

Yeah, to the outskirts of the village. We got attacked by monsters.

Monsters?! I-If Theresia didn't have you guarding her, she'd...

She'd... Oh, excuse me, I should be thanking you.

Please, don't mention it.

Besides, we weren't the only ones protecting Theresia.

Yeah, we'd have been in real trouble if it wasn't for some unexpected backup.

Hmm... Backup? Was that Ronny, by any chance?

Affirmative! How did you deduce this?

Do you know Ronny, then?

I might've known. Tackling monsters in his condition.

You appear to know about his health. Do you know about his medicine, too?

So Theresia told you. You've only been here a short while, but she really seems to have opened up to you.

Okay... There's no point in hiding it.

I'm the one who prepares Ronny's medicine. I swore to make Theresia as happy as any man can. And he's a dear friend of hers. I vowed to make her happy, so I wish to ensure he has a long life, as best I can.

I'd do anything to make her happy...

Germain... It's time for your next appointment.

Already? Time sure does fly. I was lost in conversation when I should have made you feel welcome. I do apologize, but I have to leave. Please, make yourselves at home, not that it's mine to make such an offer.

Oh, before I go. I'm ashamed to ask such a thing while you're looking after Theresia... But could you help out if Ronny starts acting rash? He's such a dear friend... Of mine, as well as Theresia's.

All right, put your hand up if you found a problem with Germain.

He seems like a really good person to me.

The more he talked, the kinder he sounded.

I can't see a single problem with him. We should all be more like him.

He's even willing to look after another man, just to make his sweetheart happy.

And it didn't sound like he was forcing her to marry him in exchange for the medicine, either.

It really seemed like he was worried about Ronny.

No significant abnormalities on the polygraph, either. Germain didn't make any false statements.

He's a good guy, through and through. So what's the problem?

Maybe I was over thinking things. Maybe she's not regretting her engagement.

Hmm... But there can't be nothing, can there? I mean, there was a Shadow signal.

Shadows are people's true natures that have been repressed. And that bride-like Shadow... It had to have come from Theresia's feelings about her marriage.

What does that mean for Theresia?

Phew... Even after bathing, I still feel like there's something I can't wash off. No, everything's fine. We've said farewell.

Then... I should go to wash the clothes.

Oh? Something fell from the clothes...

What the?! How?! I threw this ring out! How did it get here?!

The bell again...

Huh?!

The Shadow signal?! It's Theresia's Shadow!

Ahhhhhh!

That's Theresia's voice!

Something must've happened! Hurry!

Theresia! Pull yourself together!

Ugh...

Huh? Why am I... I'm sorry, I'll get up.

Heartbeat and pulse: Normal. It appears she's returning to herself!

What happened?!

I just felt a little dizzy. It's nothing.

Theresia, are you hiding something from us?

......

The truth is, we're investigating what's happening to you.

Does anything spring to mind when I say "repressed nature"?

Repressed nature? Th-There's no way...

Oh, what's the use in lying?

Everyone in the village told me. You lot arrived, and then Mayor Sethka changed back to normal. So the truth is...

I-I no longer know myself.

Theresia...

The closer the wedding gets, the larger this unknown part of me grows...

I can't pretend to ignore it any longer.

Please... Help me...

Of course we will.

Anyway, no need for formalities. Just be who you really are.

Don't worry. We helped Sethka, so we can help you.

Thank you... I feel a little better now.

I'm glad you told us.

We will devote ourselves body and soul to prove worthy of your trust in us!

A bell...

The wedding hall bell... I heard the bell, and then I don't remember anything else. When I came to, everything was hazy, then I fell down like just now... Does that help?

Thanks, Theresia! That'll really help us work out what's going on!

Okay! Let's go investigate this bell!

The bell is in the wedding hall. Let's head there!

Is this the wedding hall?

That must be the bell Theresia was talking about.

But the bell doesn't look particularly suspicious...

Please wait! Irregular energy feedback detected!

Huh?!

That movement again!

It is coming from that direction!

There's a wormhole?!

It looks just like the one that brought us to this village!

I cannot be sure, but I sense four streams of energy that appear to be going back in time!

That must be where the Solania flower is.

Solania was a flower of wishes. And Theresia wished for us to save her, so the flower responded to that wish, right?

Does that mean the other side of that hole is where Theresia's past is?

We're being guided along here, too.

It behooves us to investigate the matter!

You said there were four energy streams? Team Aldo should know more about the wormholes than us.

Let's split into four teams for this investigation.

Who's going with who?

All right, how about...

We don't have a lot of time, man! Wait... Why do I feel like we've been through this before?

What does it matter? Let him take his time!

Yes, why does it matter indeed.

Before we jump into the hole, I need to remind everyone of something. Let's refrain from interfering with the past this time, because we don't know what might happen.

You're right. All kinds of weird things could happen... I read it in a book.

We've shared our concerns, so let's get going.

Stay safe and see you all later!

Isn't this... Lucniva village?

That's Theresia!

Hush, lest she hears us. Find cover!

Hmm? Did someone just call me?

Was it that aristocrat? You know, the one who took an interest in the village when he was passing by?

He was a great help, supplying us with the resources and medicine we needed. But I think he mostly really just wanted to see Theresia...you know?

And speaking of the devil!

How are you lovely ladies doing this wonderful day?

Hello there! Theresia is doing very well, as you can see!

Oh dear, we need to go back to our work!

All the best!

Okay...

It's been a while, Theresia.

Yes... It has.

They're a lot more distant than the couple we know.

He probably hasn't proposed to her yet, that's why.

About what happened the other day...

I sense a development!

Is something about to happen?

Surely you jest, Fox? It is clear to me a profession of love is at hand!

May I please know your answer? I have feelings for...

My heart belongs to someone else.

An immediate answer with no hesitation? I suppose I should have known better.

But somehow, I am relieved. Thank you for answering me.

She...rejected him?

Yeah, we all saw that. That being said...

Wait, aren't they going to get married after this? Maybe we should observe some more...

This is Theresia's past, and the air around doesn't seem to have changed.

That means it's not too different from what happened in the original timeline.

So that's what happened, huh?

Is that Ronny?

Someone's coming! Hide!

There you are, Ronny.

Theresia?

Look, I made it into a necklace. Does it look good on me?

You're still holding on to that glass ring?

Yup. It doesn't fit on my finger any longer, though.

It was just a toy I gave you when we were little. Why cherish it so much?

Oh, Ronny. Do I really have to spell it out for you?

You know what? Nevermind. Anyway, what were you doing here?

I'm trying to see if I can fix this bell.

Bell? Oh, the one that's going to get replaced because it broke down?

Some people will be really sad if it gets replaced, you see. Like the old lady south of the village. She'll be sad, because this bell chime reminds her of her late husband.

Right... So you're fixing the bell for the old lady, then?

No one's done any maintenance on it for decades, so I'm going in blind here, but I think I'm about to figure it out.

I can see that from all the rust on your hands... Well, good luck, I guess. You sure about this, though? I think it's going to start raining soon...

I'll work something out by then. I have to hurry or the bell might be replaced by the time I do fix it!

Doesn't look like they're just normal childhood friends, does it?

Theresia really treasures that gift Ronny gave her, and Ronny also...

W-We should keep investigating!

Oracle's really fired up about this. She's at that age about now, isn't she?

The front of a house? What're we doing here?

Is that Theresia inside?

Ronny detected as well. We should observe them quietly!

I can't believe that little bit of rain knocked me out like this.

You were pushing yourself too hard. But I'm glad you still managed to fix the bell in the end!

They don't look any different. Is this the past?

I believe we have traveled a few years back in time.

Ronny looks like he's still in anguish.

I'm just glad it didn't get replaced, and it can still last a few more years with regular maintenance.

Yeah, you're right. That bell place really brings back memories.

You gave me the ring under that bell during our play-wedding back then, too.

S-Stop bringing it up... That ring was just a toy made of glass, anyway.

Oh dear! We're out of the usual herbs. I'll go pick some more right now.

Wait, Theresia!

Didn't manage to tell her again that the herbs aren't working anymore. My symptoms are getting worse. I don't even know how long I can last...

Who's knocking? Theresia's back already? Yes, come in.

Who are you?

I am Germain, and I come to visit the village from time to time.

Oh, I've heard about you. Thank you for concerning yourself with the village. What's a lofty aristocrat like you visiting a lowly peasant like me for, though?

Urgh?! Another attack... Uhh... Ahhh... AHHH!!

I know these symptoms!

Ronny, I'm back with some herbs.

Ronny?!

Theresia?!

Ronny! Ronny, talk to me!

Ah, so this is the man who've your heart belongs to...

Theresia's really deeply in love with Ronny.

Yet she's going to marry someone else. My compatibility meter rates this as a negative outcome.

Germain doesn't look like the sort that would break a loving couple up though.

Let's keep watching.

I remember this place. It's Theresia's house, right?

That's Germain! Guys, we need to hide!

Huh?

Is that...Ronny?

Thanks for giving me some of your time.

Don't mention it. I'm surprised you asked me to talk.

Without your medicine, I wouldn't be able to be out and about like this.

I'm just glad I made it in time back then. The herbs weren't really helping with your symptoms anymore, right?

Yes... But I'm done taking medicine.

What?! Do you understand what you're saying here? Without medicine, you won't...

I'm so grateful. Really, I am. Thanks to you, I was able to spend more time with Theresia.

I was just a nameless villager you've never even met before. Yet you kept helping me and wouldn't give up on me. So now, I have a major favor to ask of you, Mr. Nice-Guy. Honestly, the medicine's effects are weakening. I doubt I have long to live.

Take care of Theresia. Make her happy.

Ronny...

I just have one condition.

You have to keep taking the medicine.

And trouble you even more than I already have?

She's not going to be the only one sad about losing you. Because you're not just a nameless villager to me.

Germain... Heh. You're an unusual aristocrat, I'll give you that.

We're best friends who both want to make the same woman happy, after all.

I wasn't expecting this...

So it was Ronny who gave Theresia and Germain the push to get married.

We should return to our time period for now. Don't let them notice us.

All right, that should be everyone!

Sorry, we're late!

We've been discussing the matter before you arrived.

All of us have good information to share!

Let's share what we learned, then.

Riica is right. Theresia and Ronny are both in love with each other.

Theresia really treasures the glass ring she received from him when they were still children, after all.

I think I know how Theresia is related to the Shadow now. The one she really wants to marry is Ronny.

She had to bottle up her true feeling sand suppress her true nature for this marriage, which produced the Shadow. It all makes sense now.

Why did she agree to marry Germain, then?

Yeah! Germain would've understood if she'd just told him her true feelings.

I want to check something... We supposedly went back to Theresia's past, right?

Something bugging you, Amy?

I'm just wondering why Theresia didn't appear in the information Joker's team shared, that's all.

Now that you mention it...

Shall we investigate Ronny? According to Violet, he was the key player in making the wedding a reality.

We do indeed lack information on how the wedding proceeded after Ronny and Germain made that promise with each other.

Very true. Let's return to the village and look for Ronny, then.

I'm so envious of their energy...

You guys are Theresia's...

Can we talk?

Of course. I have all the time in the world.

How are you feeling?

Good enough to watch over those rowdy kids, I suppose. Anyway, what did you want to talk about?

Theresia's wedding.

......

I don't know what you've heard, but...

You don't need to worry about what's going on between Theresia and me. We're both satisfied with the way things turned out.

Theresia is just putting up a front.

What? How can you be so sure?

But if the saviors of the village, as chief Sethka puts it, are saying this... I'm sure it has to be because you want to help her in some way.

Fine then. Tell me what you know about Theresia's thoughts.

Theresia... Go to the imperial capital with Germain.

Yeah... I already knew you were going to say that.

I thought you would be a lot more surprised, actually.

Sorry, Ronny, but actually... When Germain visited you the other day, I followed behind secretly.

Right. So you heard everything.

Both you and Germain wish for my happiness... Any also... I can see the bond between you two has grown stronger.

Theresia?

I understand. I'll go to the capital with Germain. He's coming back tomorrow, so I'll have to let him know as soon as I can! I'm not sure if he'll accept, though. I just turned him down not too long ago!

Theresia...

Well, there you go. Don't be lettin' that disease get the better of you.

So that's why...

Get it now? Theresia, Germain, and myself decided on this together. We went with the best choice available for the sake of everyone's happiness.

But Theresia wasn't, !

Skull.

This is infuriating!

I know what you're trying to say, but we chose this knowing each other's pains. I'm sorry... But you won't be convincing us to decide otherwise.

Not even gonna give an inch, huh?

If they've already decided, then...

But still!

I feel the same way, too. But you know...

Well, I'm not convinced!

The passage of time doesn't simply resolve anything. It was the same for me...

This is vexing. Is there nothing we can do?

It's not over yet.

Theresia asked us for help, didn't she? So we can't just let it end like this, without helping her.

Yes, Aldo is exactly right!

That's Theresia's Shadow? It's still troubling her!

We're not doing this because someone told us to. It's because we want to save Theresia's feelings!

I detect the presence of another wormhole! The signal has increased its intensity since last time!

Is Theresia asking us for help?

The guidance of Solania.

Let's go to the field of Solania flowers near the ceremonial hall!

Wormhole confirmed! The energy flow is going back in time, and there is only one flow this time!

All right! Let's all jump in together!

We're in the exact same place. Is this the past?

Slight temporal difference with former time period detected. Estimated to be just before we met Theresia!

Back to the capital once the wedding ceremony is over... And I won't be able to return again. Goodbye forever, my village, and my first love.

I wish I could have married Ronny...

Solania? I didn't know they bloomed here, too.

Dear Solania, please grant me my wish.

My dream of marrying Ronny...

Please make me forget it.

Ouch! Oh dear, it's already so late.

Germain is waiting for me.

I get it now...

That was the wish Theresia made to the Solania flower?

I think I know the secret behind Theresia's Shadow now. Theresia's true feelings and the wish she made to the Solania flower are in conflict.

Her true wish was to marry Ronny, yet she wished for the Solania to make her forget that.

The instability Queen spoke of caused our attacks to pass through it.

She denied her real feelings... That's why her Shadow doesn't have a clue what it wants to be either.

Theresia did say something about not knowing who she really was, didn't she?

Her Shadow felt the same way too.

In that case, we now know how to save her.

Do you mean that, Mona?!

We have to make her recognize her true feelings, and then steal the unnecessary parts away.

How shall we go about doing that?

Could it be the same thing you did with Sethka?

Yes, through a change of heart.

Right! Theresia needs a change of heart. I knew you'd arrive at the same conclusion as us in the end!

So her wish and her true feelings mutually exclusive... You could say it's a distorted desire, in a sense. And we will steal that.

We'll steal her desire to forget her wish of marrying Ronny.

So we're making Theresia confront her true feelings then, right?

Sounds like a plan! There are no bad guys this time, but it's a change of heart all the same!

Change Theresia to protect her, the same way we saved Sethka!

Mission: Stealing Desires is back in business, then? Yet another Phantom Thief experience to be had.

We need to go into Theresia's heart... Into that Palace, wasn't it? We have to go in there?

It did not seem like your otherworldly technology allows you to enter from our world.

Ogre Rancorem doesn't seem too keen to help, either.

We don't have to go into her heart this time. We spotted Theresia's Shadow in Mementos, after all. But since Phantom isn't here, we'll have to materialize Theresia's desire.

I see... Materializing the Shadow is part of the strategy to defeating it.

Materialize a desire? However shall we go about doing that?

We'll use a calling card.

Calling card?

Hey, aren't you guys the bodyguards? The wedding is about to start! Don't just stand around! Get to work!

Already?!

I think we wasted a lot of time when we were going back and forth between times.

I trust that you have a plan, Joker?

You guys take care of that. We'll go check in on Theresia.

We can regroup and exchange information again afterwards.

Anyone against changing Theresia's heart? Speak now or forever hold your peace!

It's unanimous, then!

Our first calling card since coming here... I'm ready to start.

Let's head back to where Theresia is. She should still be in the house.

Theresia...

Are you well...?

Yes... I'm sorry you had to see me in such an ugly state. I think I was just having pre-wedding jitters. I should've given this more thought...

Oh, right. I should probably get rid of this...

I'll take care of it for you.

Silicon compound detected. It is a bona fide glass ring!

Well, Germain's waiting for me at the hall, so I'd better get going. This will be your last task from me...

By the way, where is Joker and the others?

They're working hard for you in their own way! So please...just trust us until the very end, Theresia.

I will...

Shall we, then? Sethka's household will be helping me change into my dress.

All done.

You can really draw, Fox!

Yes, Violet. And that is why Fox is allowed to be the pervert he is.

Who're you calling a pervert?!

Now we just need to show this to Theresia...

Wait. How do we get to Mementos?

I have an idea. You see, the wormholes have been conveniently opening up whenever Theresia needs help, so...

I get it! So we just need to get Theresia to see the calling card, recognize her desire... And then want to seek help, right?

Want to seek help, you say... That really depends on Theresia herself. Are we going to make it in time?

A bell is ringing.

A bell? From the wedding hall?

Yes. The bell is definitely making Theresia conscious of the wedding.

She did say she had no memories of what happens after hearing the bell.

Perhaps the bell's sound is what triggers her real feelings to surface.

So we'll just make her read the calling card when she hears the bell.

We're only putting Phantom Thieves as the sender? What about Aldo?

Just us is fine. Aldo and the others still have to live in this world after we return.

You're right. If anything bad happens after this, we'll just get away with it.

We're gonna forget all of this when we return too, you know.

Forget all of this? About Aldo and Amy? Even Cyrus and Riica?

Unfortunately.

It never bothered me before, but knowing that I'm going to forget them does make me feel a little sad.

Come on, Aldo and the others are waiting! Save the sadness for after this is all over.

Mona is right.

I detect villagers gathering at the wedding hall. Aldo is in Sethka's house. Let's go join them!

Joker! Guys!

Sorry we're late! Where's Theresia?

Changing into her outfit inside.

I'm guessing you everything went well?

Yes, and here's a quick explanation...

That is the strategy we shall be following to change her heart?

We have to pass Theresia the calling card and make her read it when the bell chimes. Teamwork is key here!

And this calling card thing is...

Don't worry, we have it here.

Since Theresia's changing, we'll let the girls pass the card to her.

Not all of us, of course... That would be a little too in-your-face.

I'll go!

We're counting on you, Violet.

Now, as for the bell... Wait. When does that bell ring again?

Huh? You're asking me when the bell will be ringing next? I mean...

Well that was just bad timing. We'll have to wait for the next one, then...

Next one? There's not going to be a next one. That was the last one before the ceremony starts.

No! We didn't make it...

This is most regretful...

Hang on. As long as Theresia's reading the card when the bell's chiming, the plan'll work right?

Let's make that bell to ring, then!

We can do that?!

Since it chimes regularly, there has to be some mechanism operating it.

I'll go investigate!

I'll help. My knowledge in physics may come in handy.

We should head back to Theresia, then.

We're going to the bell too. We can't just stand here and do nothing!

This is perfect.

Thank you for helping me with the dress...

It's a joyous occasion for the village too, so it's the least I can do.

......

So pretty...

Who's that?

You were the one with Joker...

I'm Violet.

You're the child who was with the village's saviors. I suppose you've grown fond of Theresia after guarding her, eh?

The ceremony won't be starting for a while, so I'll take my leave now. Relax and make yourself at home, all right?

Is something wrong?

This is for you.

You'll be hearing the bell soon, and I'd like you to read that while it's still ringing.

The bell? But the last bell just went off.

Pretty please!

You guys are so strange, getting all serious about helping me even though we've only just met a short time ago.

You do have a point. I wonder why? Maybe it's because I'm the sort to act first and think later.

Hehe...

Sorry, I've never been good at explaining things.

No, that's not true. I can tell that you and I are very alike in some ways.

Theresia...

Anyway, you want me to read this when the bell is ringing, right? I'll do that. I promise.

Thank you... I'll leave you to your stuff now.

Violet!

Take care...

You too...

......

You've put on the dress, Theresia? I'm coming in, then.

My, my... I am speechless before your astounding beauty. I haven't felt so nervous since the day I confessed my feelings to you.

Thank you...

......

It's complicated. Very complicated...

What's this? Why is the bell ringing now?

Let me go check. Please wait here for me.

Oh... I'm supposed to read this...

A calling card?

Distorted desire...

Face yourself...

Bingo! I knew it would ring again if we turned the time back!

I'm glad that theory worked out, since the only thing we could do was calculate how much to rewind the gears.

Hey, you wanna come work at my weapon shop after this? Dad'll love you!

I might consider it if I fail my entrance exams.

I gave her the calling card.

Reaction detected near the bell!

The wormhole is here!

There's a Shadow on the other side... Theresia's Shadow!

Our strategy worked!

Theresia read the calling card like she promised!

It's our turn to fulfill our promise.

That's right... Our promise to save Theresia.

We sure took the scenic route, but now we can face Theresia's Shadow the right way.

You could say this is our parting gift to her!

Let's all do this together!

Time for a change of heart.

We meet again.

That's Theresia's Shadow?

I... I...

I am...

We can understand her.

She's trying her best to confront herself!

What I really want is...

Uhh... Ahhh!

Multiple reactions detected! Are they new Shadows?!

No, Riica. This reaction is proof that Theresia is now aware of her true feelings.

Yes, this is fine. The vague reaction we detected previously is now split into two clear ones!

Her own feelings and the wish to the Solania flower...

That's what's been tormenting her so much!

The energy reaction is swelling at an incredible speed!

That's...

Theresia's materialized desire, and it has nowhere to go!

That thing's trying to attack Theresia!

Not on my watch!

Let's settle this!

It takes fortitude to carry on with life holding on to something like this.

You should decide who you want to love. We'll support you as friends.

I'm sure Theresia will be able to confront herself now...

And discern what she should be doing!

Yes... After we steal that thing from her!

It's time for action!

What's that in your hand, Joker?

The sprout of a Treasure.

Left alone to grow, it would have turned into a Palace eventually.

I...

Theresia?

The truth is... Ronny...

Come on, you can do this!

The person I really love is... Ronny.

She said it!

I heard that loud and clear!

Something is welling up in her heart.

She will be fine by herself now.

What a tearjerker...

Now I can go back... Thank you, everyone.

Theresia...

Wormhole energy reaction is weakening at an alarming speed!

You mean we won't make it back?!

Let's go back!

We made it just in time!

To think of it, was there no need to rush to the Phantom Thieves?

Now that you mention it... You're right.

But, we should see them off at least.

We appreciate your consideration.

I'm sure I don't need to say this, but... Take care of yourselves!

You too.

Another valuable experience that I can turn into new inspiration...

Or not! Such a shame about that.

What do you mean you can't?

It's a long story...

Send our regards to Theresia and the others!

Of course! That was good, wasn't it?

It's not over yet.

Yes, you're right.

Anyway, see you around!

Hehe... Instead of "goodbye"... It's "see you soon."

It made the whole thing less sappy, which I'm fine with!

Wish I could've seen Theresia's dress!

Oh, right! I was the only one who saw that! I can look online for something with a similar design...

But there's no point, since we'll be forgetting everything anyway.

Shall we get going? It's time for us to return to our world.

We have successfully returned.

What about the wedding?!

Has Theresia changed?

We need to check. Come on, to the wedding hall!

We're back in Mementos.

The Palace of the people and the nest of desire, wasn't it?

Surrounded by its usual foul and ominous spirit...

There is a treasure trove of data, though I cannot recommend staying for long.

I sense the Shadow over there.

Let's hurry! We need to settle this before the wedding is over!

Joker!

Can we talk for a bit? Since I don't know when we'll be meeting again...

I was just thinking... Maybe Theresia wasn't the only one trying to seek our help this time. Maybe...the Solania flower was asking for help too.

The Solania flower?

The Solania flower knew Theresia was conflicted. But since she made the wish, the Solania flower had to grant it to her. That's why it led all of us here. So that we could help her...

You may be right, Aldo. Facing our true desires... We've all been through that before. It's entirely likely that the Solania flower guided us to her... In hopes that we can change her thinking, as fellow companions who understand the same pain.

The same pain... You guys went through a lot over at your end after defeating Phantom, huh.

It's going to take a while to explain.

Haha! That's not good! We should keep moving for now.

Sorry for holding you back like that. Let's catch up to the others!

Don't know when we'll be meeting again, huh?

Bridegroom Germain.

Do you pledge before this sword of blessing to love and respect your wife Theresia, whether in sickness or health?

I do.

Bride Theresia.

Do you pledge before this sword of blessing to love and respect your husband Germain, whether in sickness or health?

I...

I do not.

Wh-What did you just say?

D-Did I hear that right?

Did Theresia just reject the marriage vow?

Theresia...

Germain.

You have done well.

Everyone present!

Theresia's new start in life.

A new start... It's just as I thought...

Isn't this the time celebrate with us?!

If Germain says so...

Theresia!

My guards...

Here, you left this with me.

It's your treasured ring, right? Don't ever let go of it again.

I want to thank you all. May I ask that you escort me... One more time?

Of course!

Our bodyguard mission is still in operation.

We must hurry!

They should be exchanging their vows right about now.

Stop thinking about it. This is for the best...

What's this?

A glass ring?

It was just a toy I gave you when we were little. Why cherish it so much?

You gave me the ring under that bell during our play-wedding back then, too.

Who's guidance? What's the deal with those meddlers showing me this ring...

Good grief... I guess true feelings find a way.

I never forgot about it, either...

Are we in Mementos?

Did you even need to ask? Was what I was gonna say, but I'm honestly wondering the same thing.

As for me, I feel a sense of mysterious frustration about something...

If I remember correctly, something like this has happened before?

Yes, and I recall feeling... Quite accomplished about something back then as well, just like now.

Accomplished! Which means we should be celebrating, right?

That's a wonderful suggestion, Violet! Back to Leblanc to do just that, then!

I'll ask Sakura to make soba noodles for us!

Don't forget the curry!

......

May your wish be fulfilled as well...