GO! NINJA THIEF

Hmm...

How fine the wind sings.

A perfect wind to cloak my footsteps.

Hmm...

Holes everywhere!

This is the perfect spot to carve out a new route!

Hmm...

It's dangerous at night, so we really should head back early!

...

That's not the right line, Miranda.

Huh?

Uh...

Ah, I remember now!

Silence has descended on the streets.

The moment has come to deliver my justice!

Excellent.

All four members of the Thieves of Justice are present.

And now... I shall present to you the newest member of our troupe.

Step forth!

Hmm...

Night has fallen.

The shadows now work in my favor.

Nin-nin!

As you know, Delta is still a trainee.

She will likely fall short in many ways, so I ask that you assist her well by her side.

I am counting on your guidance, seniors.

Don't worry, just leave it to us!

Yup, yup!

And so the Thieves of Justice are now five.

To protect the justice in the Ark,

we shall resume our duties as a team!

Yaaaay!

Woohoo!

Hello, Commander.

Apologies for disturbing you at this hour.

May I enter for a moment?

I was unsure when you would summon me, so I've been waiting.

I thought it best to come and ask you in person.

You said I could also become a phantom thief. Is that correct?

...

What's all this about phantom thieves?

!!

How the...?!

I didn't sense your presence at all!

Me neither!

How interesting!

Would you like to join the Thieves of Justice?

...

Can I really become a phantom thief?

Anyone who is righteous is welcome.

Uh oh...

I was told the phantom thieves operate at night.

In accordance with that, I have come at night as well.

Since you have seen potential in me for righteous deeds, I do not wish to disappoint you.

So, how long must I wait?

Understood. Thank you.

Very well, I shall take my leave.

There's no need for that.

As you can see, we are already here.

Greetings! It is I, Miranda, the Phantom Police!

Just got here a bit ago, but looks like you already have a guest.

And as luck would have it, you two were talking about us!

Hiya, Delta! It's been ages!

Greetings.

As it happens, Delta, I had intended to pay you a visit.

I see...

Lies!

Didn't you just say in the passageway that you forgot?

Lying is bad!

Yeah, exactly!

Uh...

Ahem!

That is of no importance.

What truly matters is that we have come together here.

Heh, you're quite the talker.

Delta, allow me to properly introduce myself.

I am known as Phantom, the Phantom Thief.

Would you do me the honor of joining our noble band, the Thieves of Justice?

...

Yes,

I shall join you.

Good. Most excellent.

But know this!

The Thieves of Justice are not a band one may join so easily.

Wow, so that's how it was...!

That's not true!

I nailed it on my first—

Quency, if you would.

On it!

My first try—mmph!

Sorry, Miranda! Hang in there a bit, even if it's a little stuffy.

The great phantom thief has spoken, so there's nothing I can do. Hehe!

Mmph! Mmmph?!

Ahem. Miranda can be a bit... boisterous. I ask for your understanding.

Now then...

To join the Thieves of Justice, one must begin as a trainee.

Should you pass all the tests, you shall be welcomed into our ranks as a full-fledged phantom thief.

Understood.

I shall do my utmost to pass the trainee period.

Hmm, a fine mindset.

Now, the first test:

your outfit!

Hmm...

Come to think of it, I am the only one without a mask.

Indeed.

Phantom thieves who roam the shadows must wear attire befitting their role.

And so, I shall prepare an attire that shall suit you, Delta...

Understood.

I shall prepare it at the earliest possible time.

Huh?

Is there anything additional I should prepare?

Uh...

... Is there anything you might wish to add?

Nah, not really.

Mmph! Mmmmph!

And what think you of it, Monsieur?

Very well. For now, we shall proceed with preparing only your phantom thief outfit.

We shall reconvene in one week. Same time, same place.

And should you require any assistance in acquiring an outfit—

Understood.

I have much to prepare, so I shall take my leave.

...

Strange, it feels as though my words are being cut off.

Nah, it's all in your head.

Mmph, mmph!

Ah, what a splendid evening.

Hi, Instructor!

Hello!

Is Delta not here yet?

Hmm... punctuality is of the utmost importance for a phantom thief.

I suppose we, the fully-fledged thieves who arrived on time, can only wai—

Gah! You scared me!

Wait... who's that?

It's me, Delta.

I am now wearing the phantom thief costume you instructed me to prepare.

Wow, you look like a whole new person!

Oh...

And what manner of concept might this be?

A ninja.

While investigating phantom thieves, I identified a key trait of theirs: they move silently and with stealth.

Ninjas share the same trait.

As such, I selected this ninja thief attire.

Correct.

I have confirmed that ninjas primarily remain on the ceiling while waiting.

I had been on standby for about an hour before you returned.

A ninja must never be detected.

Affirmative.

That's illegal!

I'm putting you under arrest!

I was told this is the base of the Thieves of Justice.

As a trainee, I assumed there would be no issue in visiting.

Oooh!

You're absolutely right!

This is our hideout,

so it doesn't count as trespassing!

Acknowledged. Thank you.

A Ninja Thief, is it...

How...

utterly unexpected.

You pass the first test!

Thank you.

May I ask what the next test is?

The next test

shall be conducted by my assistant, Quency.

I will be under your guidance.

Hehe, I'm really good at breaking ou... I mean, making escape routes.

For phantom thieves like us, who have to keep our identities secret while delivering justice, it's an essential skill.

But first, I need to see what you're capable of.

So, if you were to make an escape route from your room to our base, how would you do it? Think it over and get back to me by tomorrow.

Understood.

I have much to prepare, so I shall take my leave.

Much to prepare?

I get it for the outfit, but this really doesn't need much—

Ahh!

What the...!?

*Cough, cough!*

A smoke bomb...!

Huh? Delta's gone!

She vanished without making a sound! She really is a ninja!

Commander, are you okay?!

I'm not sure of the exact cause either.

For now, all that's been confirmed is that an explosion occurred in Delta's room.

Delta of The Scouts.

Fortunately, the dorm is empty, so there appear to be no casualties.

Would you like to confirm it yourself?

We need to find the culprit.

An explosion this big at the Outpost... terrorism can't be ruled out.

But why Delta's room of all places?

We should check with her first...

...

Yes, understood.

Shall I contact Delta and have her come see you?

Are you referring to Delta?

Last night...?

... It's no wonder you've been so tired lately, Commander.

Even with your stamina, you still have to get some sleep.

Very well, I'll leave Delta with you.

I'll send a separate report on the repair costs later.

Hehe, how did you know I was here?

I heard that huge explosion and came to check it out, but you caught me right away.

As expected of you, Commander.

I thought I had concealed myself perfectly.

Huh? What? Delta, where did you even come from?!

I came down from the ceiling.

Correct.

This is one of a ninja's stealth techniques.

A phantom thief must move discreetly and silently. Above all, their identity must not be exposed.

One must never let their guard down.

That is what it means to be a Ninja Thief.

Aw, come on, Instructor! Don't be like that!

So, what was that explosion just now?

After disbanding last night, I considered escape routes from my room to the base until approximately 0600 hours.

Upon devising an appropriate method, I attempted it.

Blast a hole that reaches here with explosives.

Causing a disturbance when necessary is also a method to divert attention,

thereby enabling quieter and more covert movement.

... Wow,

you're totally crazy, hehe!

Here is the report.

Fortunately, thanks to the building's sturdy construction from the start, there was no additional damage.

It also coincided with a scheduled inspection, so Mighty Tools is already handling the repairs.

Yes, but we can't allow something like this to happen again.

Have you spoken with Delta?

Phantom thieves?

You're saying that Delta actually mentioned phantom thieves?

...

Understood. I'll assume you handled it well.

I'll be going now.

Hah, well now.

It seems we've recruited quite the extraordinary trainee.

I know, right? Truly impressive in so many ways. Hehe.

Truly!

Hiding one's identity while still warning others of danger—that's exactly the sort of thing the Phantom Police would do!

Amazing!

Now then, Quency, what say you?

Has Delta passed the test?

Puh-lease!

There's no way

she'd NOT pass!

Escape is all about the spirit of challenge!

"Can I escape if I do this...?"

"Is this the right path...?"

Questions like that only slow you down!

Sure, her methods were a little over the top, but I loved how she didn't hesitate for a second!

So, it's a pass!

Thank you. I shall continue to improve diligently.

But no more explosives!

They're lethal and way too loud.

All escape attempts have to be quiet and sneaky,

okay?

Understood.

I will dispose of all grenades and explosives in my possession.

But that is something supplied under Delta's name.

I am the Ninja Thief.

I consider them entirely separate entities.

Exactly!

I'm also the Phantom Police!

Normally, Miranda can freely walk in and out of the police station!

But if the Phantom Police tried that, it would be a huge problem!

They're entirely different entities!

Miranda shall oversee

the next test.

I will be under your guidance.

Delta, a phantom thief must be righteous.

So, you're going to take the justice test!

How will this be conducted?

You have to return the citizens' lost items without anyone finding out who you are!

I've only managed it once myself so far!

This is going to be a really tough test, I tell you!

Understood.

I have much to prepare, so I shall take my leave.

Wow...!

Fireworks are going off outside!

Did a festival start or something?

Ho, how lovely.

Huh?

But... where did these fireworks even come from?!

Hah...! Delta has vanished!

I see now.

So this, too, is the art of a Ninja Thief: to steal our attention and vanish without a sound.

My word... truly an extraordinary fellow!

This is where today's test will take place!

The park's really cool at night and perfect for a stroll.

So lots of people come here,

and naturally, quite a few things end up getting lost!

Understood.

I shall do my utmost.

Look closely and you'll see sparks flying from her toes.

Guess she's using them for propulsion?

If you're curious, ask her about it later!

Waah! Waaaaaah!

Buy it for me! Pweeease!

Tsk!

I already told you no!

Eek?!

Little girl, what is the reason you are crying?

Have you perhaps lost something?

Wa-waaah...

M-Mommy promised to buy me a treat,

but she didn't...! Waaah...!

When did I ever say that?

Hey, don't worry about it and just go on your way...

Understood.

Combat rations.

This will allow you reclaim the fullness you have lost.

Huh...?

I will take my leave.

...

Combat... rations...?

Wow, Dad! Look! A toy sword!

I want it!

Hmm, it's a bit too pricey to buy it here.

How about we get one at the supermarket tomorrow?

Ahh! Noooo!

I want that one!

Whoa!

Where did you just come from? Are you a hero or something?

Little boy, what is the reason you are throwing a tantrum?

Have you perhaps lost something?

What? Oh...

I just wanted that sword...

Understood.

Wowee!

...?

Shuriken, chains, grappling hooks, ink, scrolls...

What's all this?!

Weapons have been supplied.

They may be impractical for actual combat,

but they will prove more effective than those toys.

N-no, miss, we really don't need thi—

These will allow you to reclaim the combat power you have lost.

Hey! Hey...?!

Woooooow! This is awesome!

Ughhh...

Feels like my head's splitting open...

Bring me booze, now! If I stop drinking, I'll sober up and the hangover'll kill meee!!

Huh?

Have you perhaps lost something?

I sure did! I lost my booze!

Quick, bring it here!

Understood.

Wh-what's this...?

These are scrolls for learning various jutsu.

Scrolls...? Why're you givin' me these?

It seems you have not lost alcohol, but your composure.

By reading, you can calm your mind and regain the composure you have lost.

I have already read them all, so I shall give them to you.

...?

... What the heck is this crap?

Ah...

Uh...!

The test lasted for about an hour.

In total, I have returned lost items to 38 people.

Having confirmed that there are no longer any visitors in the park, I, the Ninja Thief, have returned.

D-Delta...!

That...

was incredible!

So many people lost things tonight, and you returned every single one!

I really respect you!

... You flatter me.

No, really, you deserve all the praise today!

You're the very embodiment of justice!

Even I must marvel at your speed and judgment.

Thank you.

Well then, Miranda, what's your verdict?

Has she passed the test?

Of course!

Delta absolutely must become a phantom thief!

Yes, most satisfactory!

A short while ago, she glanced back and entered the manhole.

So, there are reports of a suspicious woman giving out suspicious items here?

That's right,

there are 16 reports in total.

Most people said the items they got seemed pretty useful...

but since they came from some suspicious masked person in black, they were a bit uneasy about it.

16 cases already and it hasn't even been an hour... This is bad.

I'll take the left, so Quiry, you cover the right.

Will do!

Oh!

Poli, Quir—

Mmph! Mmmph...!

Mmmmphh...!

Mmmph...!

Ugghhh...

*Gasp!* They're coming this way.

We'd best make our escape.

...

*Sniff* *Sniff sniff*

Hmmmmm...

Ahem.

Delta, never before has anyone passed the test in so short a span.

And now, the time has come for my test.

It shall unfold amidst actual fieldwork.

... This is a real mission?

Quite so.

What sort of test is it?

For this,

you are to send a calling card!

A calling card...

Am I to take it as a warning notice sent to the enemy?

Something like that, yes.

To explain the situation precisely:

the one upon whom we shall carry out justice is a pickpocket, who stole a man's bag the other day.

It was said to contain many precious things.

We intend to steal it back and return it to its rightful owner, so compose your calling card with that in mind.

Now then, allow me to show you the ones I have used in the past.

Understood.

This calling card carries significant meaning.

The more refined one's literary skill, the more elegant a calling card one may compose.

Now then, I look forward to seeing what kind of calling card you will pen—

I have much to prepare, so I shall take my leave.

...

It seems I'm not merely imagining that my words are being cut off.

To listen to another's words in their entirety is, too, a virtue a phantom thief ought to possess!

Next time I see her, I shall give her a stern talking-to.

In any case, you two have done well today.

When the Thieves of Justice next mobilize, let us meet then.

Today was really wonderful!

I'll see you all next time!

Now that it seems everyone is here,

let us first take a look at the calling card Delta has prepared.

Here it is, as ordered.

Hmm?

The quantity seems rather excessive.

Did you, by any chance, write this knowing that it would need to be thrown multiple times?

The calling card was too small to contain my full intent.

Therefore, I divided the content across several cards.

Oho,

Miranda, read it out loud.

Got it!

"Be warned!"

"I am one who walks in the shadows—a thief of truth, taking darkness as my ally."

"Through secret investigation and relentless pursuit, I have confirmed that what you now hold is not yours,"

"and have come into your hands through unjust means!"

"Ill-gotten gains must be returned to their rightful place. This principle stands beneath both moonlight and sunlight alike."

"Justice is such that, at times, one must first set foot into darkness before the light may be reached!"

Yes, Commander?

Let me count now!

One, two, three, four...

About 40!

Pfft!

A calling card? Please... this is practically a letter!

Hmm...

Delta, I must acknowledge your skill with words, yet this seems rather long.

Do you see that open window over there?

Yes.

You'll need to throw several calling cards through that, in hopes that at least one gets through.

Since not all of them will, everything must be written on a single card...

Uh... if you toss it like that, it's never gonna make it through the window!

Wow! That's epic!

Wow...!

Th-that's amazing!

...!

This should let you fit them all in.

Ho ho! Truly splendid!

Ahem... very good. You've passed the calling card test.

Now, Delta, exactly when did you say you would carry out your phantom thief missions?

Usually, one would write tonight, or perhaps tomorrow night.

I judged that the sooner the better, so I wrote "tonight."

Very well.

Tonight, the Thieves of Justice shall convene once more to bring justice to evil.

Please wait a moment.

Hmm? Might there be a problem?

I have not yet formally joined the Thieves of Justice.

Well... you're still a trainee, after all.

Therefore, I did not compose the calling card in the name of the Thieves of Justice.

Huh? So what'd you write?

I wrote "Trainee Ninja Thief."

Ah...

Well, that's quite all right!

From my prior investigation, it seems this wicked fellow is always away from home during the day,

likely roaming about to pickpocket others.

So, if we were to slip inside now and amend the calling card—

Oh no! The homeowner's back!

That can't be!

He's found the calling card!

Oh... ohhh...!

He's making a call!

Oh! That's the A.C.P.U. emergency line ringtone!

I'll just answer this real quick!

...

...

Oh no! We're in trouble!

Someone reported that the Trainee Ninja Thief is coming tonight!

... What should we do now?

This...

is truly troubling.

Delta is still just a trainee, and yet she must go in alone...

What nonsense are you saying, Monsieur!?

Don't you remember our oath beneath the peach tree?

Once a Thief of Justice, always a Thief of Justice!

Anyway, to act under a multitude of names is a violation of the Thief Code.

The Thieves of Justice cannot step forth under the name of the trainee ninja thief.

Oh wow, that's the first I've heard of a rule like that, hehe.

I cannot allow my resolve to become a phantom thief to be dismissed a mere prank.

Since I said I would do it, I intend to see it through.

Then, the Thieves of Justice have no choice

but to step in.

How are you gonna do that?

We shall send a calling card of our own.

When the time comes, we shall keep to the shadows and aid Delta discreetly.

That sounds like a great idea!

Hmm...

I believe I can manage this on my own.

Please leave it to me.

Hmm...

Your growth has been almost unbelievable...

Are you confident you can do this, Delta?

I have completed all the tests and now stand before the real mission.

A ninja is a creature of shadows.

The fewer the companions, the greater the efficiency.

So I am confident, yes.

... Very well.

I shall entrust this phantom thief mission to you.

In the name of the Ninja Thief and the Thieves of Justice, I trust you to carry it out well.

I shall do my utmost.

Then, as I have much to prepare, I shall take my leave.

Are you sure it's really fine to send her in alone?

*Sigh* How could that possibly be?

Arrogance begets mistakes, and mistakes beget failure.

And... I do not wish to let Delta experience failure.

Thieves of Justice, set forth!

But we shall move with utmost stealth, lest Delta catch sight of us.

All right!

Oh, Miranda.

Since this matter has already been reported to the police, it would be best for you to sit this one out.

Wha...!

B-but...

Don't push it too far, Miranda.

If you get caught this time, it won't end with just a disciplinary report, right?

...

Got it!

I, Phantom Police,

will participate in this mission as Police Officer Miranda!

Oooh!

That'd be awesome!

You could tell us where the other cops are ahead of time, and if we get caught, you could stall for us a bit too!

I don't know about all that, but I'll do my best!

Very well, then. Let us begin.

Hmm... maybe Delta really is better than us?

Ah, it went in!

We should return to the base and make preparations.

By the way, great phantom thief,

did you run a spell check on that calling card?

Ah, drat.

Hm...

Even the Thieves of Justice sent out a calling card.

Miranda, don't you have to go too?

I've decided to sit this one out!

They said that if I get caught by the police this time, it won't end with just a disciplinary report!

That's a wise choice.

But, do you happen to know anything about this Trainee Ninja Thief, hmm?

Eep!

Wh-why do you ask?

I've got a bad feeling.

When you weren't around a few nights ago, we got soooo many reports from the park!

They said there was this suspicious person in black with a mask... I think it might be the Trainee Ninja Thief who wrote the calling card.

But she helped the citizens find their lost belongings!

So she's a truly righteous person!

Yeah, but the gunpowder smell was so strong back then.

If she's handling guns or some kind of weapon, then she's probably super dangerous!

But a phantom thief acts in the name of justice...!

Based on what the Thieves of Justice usually get up to, that sounds about right.

But a Trainee Phantom Ninja... I've never heard of one before!

It could even be some naughty criminal pretending to be a phantom thief.

...!

So, we gotta be careful,

got it?

Yes...

Our goal is but one:

to help Delta successfully steal the bag.

In doing so, we must avoid, as much as possible, encounters with her, the police, and the villain himself.

That's not gonna be easy.

...

...

That is a sharp insight, Monsieur.

It would be best to move separately until Delta is found.

Any being leaves traces when they pass through, so I shall track Delta's trail myself.

In that case,

we'll end up at the final destination anyway, so I'll go look for the bag!

Monsieur, it would be wise for you to accompany me.

As Delta is a Ninja Thief, tracking her will prove no easy task.

Got it! Let me know if anything comes up!

I think we ought to proceed this way, Monsieur.

...

I have brought a concealment cloth in preparation for situations like this.

It scans the background precisely and replicates it perfectly. If I hide beneath it, no one will see me.

...!

Hmm...

No one's here.

But! Every time I do this, I end up losing the suspect...

Crazy as it sounds, they could even be hiding inside the walls...

Like this, for example!

Hehe, as I thought, it's just a wall.

This side too!

*Sigh* Being alone makes me do all sorts of silly things.

One last spot!

Huh?

Uh...?

Strange... This is definitely a wall.

So why does it feel so soft?

Hmmm...

No matter how I look at it, it's a wall...

Is this the latest interior design trend?

Interesting.

Notice anything weird or out of place, Quiry?

Yeah, there's nothing in the hallway.

Oh! But wait,

there's this wall here that feels really nice.

It's super squishy, like a stress ball. It actually makes me feel really calm.

...!

Was it only that wall?

Yeah! Right here—

H-huh?

It was super soft and squishy just a moment ago...

and now it's hard again!

Is it a wall that changes texture...?

That was a person!

It's gotta be the Ninja Thief, I tell you!

Go chase her!

Wh-what?!

But...

there's no one here.

Keep tapping the walls while you search!

I'll catch up with you soon!

O-okay!

...

I'm sorry, I think I lost her...

It's okay.

Predicting a phantom thief's moves isn't exactly easy.

But this new Ninja Thief sure lives up to her name.

Seems like she's an especially stealthy one, so stay extra alert for any signs of her, okay?

Okay!

Did you find the Ninja Thief?

Nope, we lost her.

What a relief!

Grrrr!!

But where's the homeowner right now?

Why, are you gonna tell your friends in the Thieves of Justice?

N-no...!

I was just curious, that's all.

I haven't seen him once since we got here.

... I offered to guard him personally, but he refused, y'know.

He said he'd keep watch of the bag himself

and told me not to worry since he'd be hiding safely in his room alone.

So, how are we even supposed to catch him?

Why on earth would we be catching him?

Because he's a pickpocket!

That's why the Thieves of Justice are trying to retrieve the bag!

Hmm...

Given the Thieves of Justice's past antics, it's pretty likely this is true!

Then we better secure the bag before the phantom thieves do!

I'll go check it out. Miranda, you stay here and watch for any sign of the phantom thieves.

Especially!

If you spot that Trainee Ninja Thief, you must absolutely catch her, got it?

Yes! Understood!

...

Did you see that, Monsieur?

Quiry's hands are roaming over Delta...

Ahem...!

In any case, it seems Delta has gone through that door.

We should follow.

...

...!

I'm heading out, so make sure you don't slack off, okay?

Got it!

...

Huh?

Huh?! You're the Trainee Ninja Thief!

Nice to see you, Delt—

Eeek!

Wh-why are you throwing shurikens all of a sudden...?

You've betrayed the phantom thieves and defected to the police.

I've always been a police officer!

I didn't betray anyone!

You were attempting to apprehend me just now, were you not?

No, no! I was just so happy to see you that I tried to hug you!

I will not be deceived by such shallow lies.

Ninjutsu: Binding Technique!

I-is that... a grenade?!

Ack!

What's this?!

A jutsu that binds evildoers with a rope.

No one can escape it by their own strength.

And finally, the gag—

Ca-can you wait a moment?

There's something I want to tell you.

State your business, traitor.

Poli said she's going to get the bag.

So it'd be better to look for her, not the homeowner.

...!

That may be a lie.

I never, ever lie!

Then, why is it that you are helping me?

Because I want to see justice done!

...

There is a way to counter every trick.

I shall take my leave, then.

...

...

I wonder where this leads...

Huh? Miranda?

Wa-waaaah...!

Que-Quency! Hi!

I... Ahem... Could you possibly lend me a hand?

Mi-Miranda...! Are you crying?!

Oh my, who on earth tied you up like this?

You must have been so uncomfortable! I'll untie you!

N-no, not that...

My nose...!

Your nose?

My nose is so itchy! It's been torture not being able to scratch it!

Can you please scratch it for me...? Hrrrgh!

...

... Fine, I'll untie you. Scratch it yourself!

Thank you! Thank you so much!

The one in that room must be Miranda.

... I hope nothing untoward occurred.

Indeed.

If Delta were to enter completely unaware and encounter Poli, getting caught is inevitable...!

Not only would her mission fail, but our newest member of the Thieves of Justice would be confined to prison for all eternity!

Ah, our Ninja Thief...!

This won't do.

Monsieur, I shall keep watch over Poli. Might I trouble you to hold Delta back for a while?

Then, I shall entrust this to you.

The air feels strangely restless.

You in the vent, it would be best if you come out quietly.

...

This is a calling card from the Thieves of Justice.

... There are sentences here I can't make sense of.

So Miranda wasn't the only one who betrayed me?

Or is this all some kind of test?

... Hmph.

Either way, I'll accept it.

Ninjutsu: Sound Extinction!

This is a jutsu that silences everything.

From now on, no one will hear a sound from this place.

Even if you scream for help, no one will come.

Show yourself now.

If not...

I will attack.

For your information, the shurikens I just threw are rigged with expl—

...

I modified the fireworks into bombs to disorient the enemy.

But why are you here, Commander?

Surely...

you didn't come all this way because you don't think I'm reliable?

I do not consider myself capable of becoming a full phantom thief just yet.

But I did not expect to be trusted so little...

A hint?

Understood.

What hint is it?

...

Miranda said the same thing.

Was she also tasked with giving hints...?

I must apologize to her later.

In any case, I understand.

Though it is a real mission, it is ultimately still a test.

Thank you for your assistance.

Yes, I am listening.

...

Understood.

"Doing this solo isn't what's important.

The Thieves of Justice work together, so if you need help, just let us know."

Woooow, that's so cool, Instructor!

I didn't know you cared this much about the Thieves of Justice, hehe!

Whoa, amazing!

The Thieves of Justice are one!

Together, we are strong!

Right...

Gotta get outta here!

Just grab the stuff in this bag and bolt!

*Sigh* But is it really right to just abandon this house?

I mean, I did steal it, but I could always say that there was only this stuff inside!

Ugh...! What should I do...?

Eeek!

Wh-wh-who's there?!

Hello, it's A.C.P.U.!

Can I come in for a moment?

Th-the police...!

Wh-what's going on...? I can keep the bag safe myself...!

Since it's hard to predict the phantom thieves' moves, it's even more dangerous if you're on your own.

How about letting us hold onto the bag for you?

N-no, it's fine! I can handle it, so don't worry!

...

Hmm...

A fork in the path...

To reach the room Poli entered, was it the right, or the left...?

I distinctly recall it... being the left...

Hmm...

Hmmmmmm!

Yet, since I never seem to arrive at my intended destination, this time I shall proceed contrary to my own thoughts!

Could this truly be it...?

This seems really fishy... I'm gonna force the door open!

Eeek!

...

Hmm, I was right, but I fear my entrance was rather too audacious.

Hello, Phantom.

We meet again.

Glad to see you.

Perhaps we might share a hug of greeting?

I don't think now's really the time.

I need to arrest you, and I've got something to discuss with this gentleman too.

Arrest me? Have we no loyalty between us...? Surely that is too cruel.

Grrrr!

There's no such thing!

...

By the way...

it seems that wicked one is attempting to make his escape, would you not agree?

What?!

Uh... something urgent came up.

I-I left the bag in there, so feel free to take it!

Well, I'll be going then.

Grrrrr!

Hmm...

This bag contains only odds and ends.

The original contents appear to have been taken elsewhere.

Quiry! Miranda!

The homeowner ran off! We gotta catch him!

The homeowner?

Why did he run away?

That's because the homeowner is a pickpocket! A really bad guy!

We don't have any proof yet, but seeing him run off like that is kinda suspicious.

Let's catch him first!

Oh...! Got it!

This is just a temporary truce, Phantom.

You are not my enemy, so this can scarcely be called a truce.

Once we have reclaimed the item, we shall be on our way.

We'll talk about that later! Let's go catch him!

The pickpocket's getting away!

We have to catch him!

*Pant pant*

Huh? Commander?!

Um... do we have to arrest him?

I really missed you, Quiry!

Oh, Miranda! I didn't even see you there!

Have you been doing okay?

Other than getting tied up by that Ninja Thief, everything went just fine!

Whaaaat?!

No wayyy!

You got taken down by her? I had no idea!

Oh, Quency, you're here too!

Uh... Should I apprehend her?

Hehe, shouldn't we be after the pickpocket first?

We can't let him get away, now can we?

Hmm...

Alrighty, let's head over to the hallway!

This is a problem.

I cannot use the ceiling, so I have no choice but to go through the front.

If I do, I cannot avoid running into Poli—

...

...

H-hello.

Greetings.

Are you the owner of this house?

Er... no, I was just passing by.

Is that so?

Yeah, haha.

Coming through!

...

...

Oh, sorry! I didn't mean to bump you! I'm in a bit of a hurry...

One moment.

Was there no one in that room?

Ah... there's this one fluffy cop inside.

She said a phantom thief coming to the house, or something along that line. Haha.

Is that so?

Ninjutsu: Eyes of the Watcher!

Eek?!

... I have confirmed there are two individuals inside.

You're lying.

H-how did you know that?!

Stop right there!

Hand over the contents of your bag at once!

A.C.P.U. and the Thieves of Justice!

You've got nowhere to run, so give up now!

Who's who...?

Eeek!

No, wait! Why are there so many people in my house!?

Your house?

I seem to recall you said earlier that you were merely passing by.

Who the hell just "passes by" inside someone's house?!

Dammit, guess there's no turning back now!

When I bumped into you, I swiped this!

Seeing how carefully you were holding it, it must be important!

If you want it back, then you've gotta let me go!

Huh? What's this?

...

Ahhh! A g-grenade?!

Heh...

Hahaha! Oh, this is perfect!

Everyone back off, unless you wanna get blown to smithereens!

I'll throw it! I swear, I'll throw it! And we're all gonna die together!

Gah!

Ahhhh!

!!

Everyone, take cover!

Ninjutsu:

Hologram Clone!

Wh-what the...!?

The grenade you just threw was no ordinary one.

Now that my clones are blocking the path, you will not be able to escape easily.

You've gotta be kidding me...

...

I've got a question!

If they're just holograms, then you can just walk right through them, right?

!!

Wait...

Y-you're right!

Ah, geez! I got scared for no reason! Hahaha!

... You've discovered the flaw in this jutsu. Well done.

Wait a moment,

are you the Trainee Ninja Thief?!

That is correct.

Del—no, Trainee Ninja Thief!

Let's join forces to catch that pickpocket, reclaim the items, and then make our exit.

After all, that's what it means to be a phantom thief!

...

I apologize.

I wish to prove that I can accomplish this on my own,

so that I can officially join the Thieves of Justice!

Hyaaah!

What...?!

Can't you dismiss your clones, Trainee Ninja Thief?

Uh...

That cannot be done...

Do not worry. I shall apprehend him myself.

Ahhh! I can't see a thing!

Kyaa!

Urgh!

Wow, you just bump into me and don't even say sorry?

Quency, are you okay?

As I thought, Miranda's the only one who cares about me.

Go after that pickpocket, Quiry!

O-okay!

I'll follow his footsteps!

Miranda, keep watch at the doorway.

Got it!

I'll be arresting the Thieves of Justice and the Trainee Ninja Thief too!

Th-this can't be...

In the end, I let him slip away...

...

I...

Trainee Ninja Thief,

the items have already been retrieved. You need not worry.

...?!

Is that really the case?

I'm pretty dexterous myself.

Snagged it when we bumped into each other earlier, hehe.

That's why we deliberately stood all together in one corner.

Even Miranda blocking the door was really meant to give us a chance to escape.

The Thieves of Justice are not just one person.

It is all of us together.

The mission is a success, so it is best we return now.

...

In that case,

I shall clear the path for you.

What in the world?!

Someone has to hold Poli back.

I shall draw her attention to allow everyone to escape unharmed!

Wh-what's this?!

I control my energy, gather it at my fingertips, and make it spin.

Then I compress it and spin it faster... to amplify its power...!

Haaah...!

Hyaaaah!!!!

... Watcha doing?

I don't see anything.

Darn it...!

Am I still unfit to use this jutsu...?

If one person's energy is insufficient, we shall lend our aid!

Gather your energy at your fingertips!

And make it spin really fast!!

!!

Everyone...

... I can sense tremendous power!

So this is... the power of the Thieves of Justice?

Phew...

Very well. With everyone's strength gathered,

I shall give this jutsu a new name!

Hyaaah! Brace yourselves for my final strike!

Secret Jutsu: Thieves of Justice, Spiral—

Thieves of Justice, withdraw!

...

So...

that was just to draw my attention so they can escape?!

Grrrr...

Grrrrrr!

And why did Miranda have to go running off with them toooo!!

Poli, I caught him!

From what he's saying, he really is a pickpocket,

but he claims the stuff he took out of the bag isn't there. And he keeps yelling for us to

catch the phantom thief...

*Sigh*

Good work. I'll be there soon.

...

What should I do about

the Thieves of Justice...?

Good work out there, everyone.

The recovered items were safely returned to their owners, and it seems the pickpocket was taken away by the police.

Heehee, that was so much fun!

As I expected, the A.C.P.U. is impressive!

No worries! I'll put my all into writing the disciplinary report!

So...

Did Delta pass today's test?

Is she really going to join the Thieves of Justice for real?

Ahem.

Very well, I shall announce the results.

Please wait a moment.

There is no need for undue nervousness.

You have passed—

I wish to remain a trainee.

!!

Why is that?

It is only today do I realize that

I am still far from ready and require more training.

Since I do not yet truly understand the power of comrades, it is right for me to remain as a trainee.

I see...

Delta, if that's how you feel, then it can't be helped.

*Sigh* My dream of filling our base with phantom thieves is—

Therefore,

I would be grateful if you continued to take me along as a trainee.

I shall assist you to the best of my ability.

Oh...!

Then, does this mean you intend to join the Thieves of Justice?

Affirmative.

So the five of us may actually carry out phantom thief missions together?

Correct.

I am very pleased.

What are your thoughts?

Heck yeah! It's fun, so I'm all for it!

Sounds great to me! The more people upholding justice out there, the better!

Then it is unanimous!

I entrust you to our cause.

I hereby officially pronounce you the Trainee Ninja Thief of the Thieves of Justice!

I shall learn as much as possible.

What a beautiful night!

The night is always beautiful!

In that case!

The Thieves of Justice shall disband here for today.

Everyone, take care!

Now that Delta has officially joined us as a trainee, I've conducted extensive research on ninjas myself.

Oh? Really now?

Ahem! Reading is a pastime of mine, believe it or not.

In any case,

Delta, you have overlooked a most crucial detail.

What is it?

I thought I had read almost every book on ninjutsu.

It's your manner of speaking.

According to a book I read, ninjas often use the word "nin-nin."

Nin-nin?

That's the first I've heard of it.

It appears to be used either when giving a reply, or when affixed to the end of a sentence.

I shall give it a try.

Nin-nin.

Is that correct?

It should sound a bit more solemn.

Make a hand sign as you say it.

Nin-nin!

Is it said like this?

Oh, you look like quite the ninja.

I'd say she's more cute than cool.

Since Miranda is a police officer, should she say "po-po"? Hehe.

Oh, but Miranda isn't here yet?

Did she forget we were supposed to meet today?

I heard she won't be able to make it for a while.

Really? Why's that?

Apparently, her workload increased so much that she had to work overtime.

Poli's sooo smart!

So does that mean there will be no phantom thief missions for the time being? Nin-nin?

I cannot say for certain.

But if those in need of help and justice should call upon us,

Miranda will surely come.

That is the way of the Thieves of Justice.

As expected, we are the strongest team, nin-nin!

Today, I have learned something new once again, nin-nin!

What do you consider an important moment?

Understood.

Very well, then.

Let us conclude today's meeting here.

If nothing of note occurs, we shall meet again at this place, at this time, next month.

Understood.

Okay!

Why are you staring at me like that?

... Heh.

No matter what you say, Commander, you truly do have affection for the Thieves of Justice.

I, the Trainee Ninja Thief,

shall return again.

Nin-nin!