Hexan, the Phantom Thief

by Hexan Tronic


Chapter 8 - Visiting the Doctor and Gunsmith.

04/16 Sat

When I awoke the next day, I didn’t spend too much time waiting around and made my way to school. One the trip to school, I actually managed to grab a seat on the train, where Abigale commented that it would be a good time to read a book if I had one. Nothing else happened before I got to school other than a passing conversation about clinics, reminding me of the doctor from the day before.. One of the classes for the day was with Mr Ushimaru, when my phone vibrates in my pocket.

<Hey, we’re meeting up at the hideout after school, right?> Hayai begins in a group conversation.

<Don’t text now. We’re in class.> Rirī texts back.

<Whoa! You mean you’re actually able to focus on classes today?> He asks, appearing to be shocked.

<Kinda, but nothing is really sticking with me today…> Is her short reply. 

<I know, right?> He continues. <Anyways, hideout after school?>

<Where exactly is this “hideout”?> She asks, making me realise that she left before we discussed it.

<The school roof.> Hayai replies like it’s normal.

<You can still go up there?> Rirī asks, probably wondering why the school hasn’t got someone up there just in case.

<Yeah, I’ll let you in.> He continues. <Welp, I’ll be waiting. Just come on up once school’s over.>

<Alright, will do.> I say, speaking up for the first time in the convo.

<Hey, we’ll be counting on you, leader.> Hayai says, before I’m interrupted by Mr. Ushimaru when he suddenly calls one me.

“Hey, Tronic!” Mr Ushimaru calls out. “You! Pay attention! Is that how you listen when someone’s talking to you!?” ‘For some reason, I feel murderous intent…!’ I think to myself, recognising the feeling from the Shadows.

The next moment, he throws a piece of chalk right at my forehead, with fairly decent power behind the throw.

“Ooh… That looked like it hurt.” I overhear a student whisper.

“He hit him right in the forehead…” Another points out. I notice Rirī’s look of concern, before she turns back around.

“That’s what you get for daydreaming!” Mr Ushimaru explains. “Kids these days have no respect for their elders.

“Good lord… Looks like you aren’t proficient enough to dodge that…” Abigale mutters. After that mess, I make sure to keep focus till the end of class.

------------------

After school we all meet up at the ‘hideout’.

“Looks like we’re all here.” Hayai starts us off.

“Well there are only four of us, two of which stay together.” I point out. He just nods and continues.

“Mkay, let’s get goin’!” He says, looking determined.

“Hold on, I think it’s still a bit too early for us to head in.” Abigale states.

“But why? Don’t we just gotta steal that Treasure thing?” Hayai asks.

“We can’t underestimated the dangers of that castle. We should take some time and prepare.” She continues.

“But aren’t our Personas enough to deal with all that?” Hayai asks, probably wanting to deal with Kikku as quick as possible.

“That’s exactly what I meant when I said don’t underestimate it. You could die if you mess up in there. Then I couldn’t live with myself.” Abigale says, looking a bit down, well, as much as she can while looking like a puppy.

“Alright. I guess it wouldn’t hurt to prepare before we go in and trash the place.” Hayai says, trying not to look at the sad puppy.

“But now that you mention it, how can we prepare?” Rirī asks.

“For starters, we should probably look into better equipment for us. Both guns and melee.” Abigale states.

“I’ve got a good place in mind. Should have everything we’ll need.” Hayai says, looking confidant.

“Alright, you can handle that part, but let us know if you want our help.” I say, nodding.

“The other thing we’ll need is medicine. Fatigue is unavoidable in a Palace, because of the energy you’ll use by summoning your Personas.” Abigale continues.

“Any idea where we can get any good medicine?” Rirī asks.

“Don’t worry, me and Hexan know just the place.” Abigale states, before turning to me. “Alright, if we’re done here, Hexan and I have to business in Yongen, so we’ll be heading off.”

“We’re going to visit the one customer from last night?” I guess, to which she nods, and we all head out to do our own thing for the day.

------------------

“Alright, if I recall your guardians words right, the doctor we met last night gives sketchy examinations. If she is the kind of person to get such sketchy rumours, she might be willing to help us out.” Abigale states, looking around from my shoulder. “She’s supposed to have a clinic nearby right? Shall we go find it?” She asks, before ducking into my bag.

Heading away from the station, I walk past the second hand shop, and take a left, as I recall a clinic being this way. A bit further along, and I notice a hold in the wall, leading to a door.

“So this is her clinic? Let’s hope she will help out.” Abigale says, before I step inside. Inside, I hear some music that sounds calming.

Inside is what appears to be a regular clinic waiting room. Looking around I see posters, a door to a mixed toilet, and a reception window, with the doctor from last night working behind it. Deciding not to waste time, I walk up to the desk, as she looks up, probably having heard me walk in.

“This should be your first visit, yes? I don’t think I’d forget someone like you easily.” She states, likely talking about my hair. “Though I do think I’ve seen you before…”

“We met briefly at ‘Dark and Spicy’.” I point out, hoping to not waste too much of either of our time.

“That’s right. Thanks for the reminder. Anyway, what are you here for today?” She asks, looking a bit bored.

“Well, I’ve been feeling sluggish and lethargic for a couple days. I was hoping you could help?” I ask, hoping she buys it.

“......” Her silence makes me a bit concerned, but I keep that feeling inside. “...Fine.”

“Head into the exam room to your right. I’ll check you over.” She says, heading through the door in the back of her reception area, while I head into the exam room, where I just take a seat on a stool. After a moment, she takes a seat at her desk and turns to face me, legs crossed while she pulls out a clipboard.

She asks a couple questions, which I answer in a way that would point to exhaustion.

“...From what I can tell, this could be coming from stress.” She says, when she finishes questioning. “I’m going to prescribe you some pain relievers, OK?” I nod in answer, before she gets a look like she had forgotten something. “Actually, I still need to refill my stock of those…”

“So, let’s go with sleeping pills instead. Sleep is the best medicine anyway.” She continues. “Which type of pill do you want, a sweet-tasting one or a bitter one?”

“I’m… not too fond of sleeping pills. They have done more harm than good in my past experiences.” I reply, remembering a period where I ended up feeling almost no emotions because of such pills.

“Oh…? And what makes you think these pills will have the same effect? Besides, aren’t you my patient right now? Don’t you trust me? Wait no, of course you don’t, no one does.” She says, going into a short rant, before calming down. “Anyway, you’re not sick at all, are you? I’m not as dumb as I look, you know.” She says, giving me a glare. ‘Why would she think I think she’s dumb? She can’t be dumb if she’s a doctor.’ I think to myself.

“... I’m guessing you’re here because you heard the rumors about me, huh?” She continues.

“I haven’t heard much of anything, I’ve only been here a week. And anyway, I just came here to see if you could help.” I shoot back.

“Riight. The first part was true, but the second wasn’t the whole truth.” She says, watching me closely. “I guess high school kids have it tough nowadays too, huh?”

“Well, fine. I’ll prescribe you some medication.” She finally relents. “But only medication that will help you recover your health.”

“That’s all I was here for.” I state, deciding to be a bit more honest.

“Guess you trust me a bit after all. You seem pretty earnest too, and don’t seem like you’ll cause me any trouble.” She states. ‘Far from it, I’d rather help fix than cause problems.’ I think as she continues. “This is my private practice. All the medicine I dispense is original.”

“I have a license to make my own formulas. You’ve likely seen them sold at various hospitals.” She continues. “It’s your responsibility to take care of yourself. So if that’s OK with you, stop by anytime.” She finishes, a very small smile on her face.

“Will do doc, thanks for the help.” I reply.

“Great. It’s nice to find a young man that’s so quick to understand… Saves me the hassle.” She says. Then she uncrosses her legs, and looks me over for a moment. “You’re a pretty weird kid, you know? I wonder what you’re going to use my medicine for…” She ponders out loud, before adopting her previous posture. 

“Well, as long as you don’t cause me any trouble, it’s not my problem…” She says, as I feel we are about done talking. After a moment she passes me a list. “This is all I’ve got for you right now…” 

I take a moment to look over her stock. There is some alright things, but nothing great. I end up only buying one Revivadrin and that’s it. “...Take care now.” She says, as I head out.

When I get out, I noticed a man in a suit, who looks serious. I step out of the way as he just walks on in. Before I can get too far, I hear the start of their conversation.

“...What’s the reason for your visit?” The doctor asks, in the same tone Roast-san uses with customers he isn’t fond of. “Do you have a cold? Stomachache? Athlete’s foot? Whatever it is, you’ll need a number…”

“...Enough of this!” The man says, raising his voice, and shocking me. “You’re the only one who could have developed that type of medicine.” This conversation makes me curious and concerned so I get closer to hear better.

“I’m afraid I have no idea what you’re talking about…” She says, avoiding the question.

“Don’t play dumb with me.” He states. “Rumor has it, it’s a drug so potent that it can give a person unlimited power.” He says, making me scoff in my mind.

“Really? That’s news to me.” She states, sounding calm.

“Developing experimental drugs, medicine, and herbal remedies violates all health regulations.” He continues accusing. “Are you attempting to create a super-stimulant? A drug like that will only become a social issue.”

“You’re really persistent, you know that? I’m just a quack…”She says.

“The police may not be taking action, but I imagine the media will soon pick up on it.” He states. “You intent to ruin my reputation again, huh? You’re a disgrace to the medical community.” ‘This guy is really pissing me off. Maybe I should interrupt…’ I think to myself before knocking and walking in.

“You know, from what I’ve been hearing, it sounds less like she is creating some super drug, and more like your high off your ass on some experimental shit you cooked up. And in your haze, you’ve come down here to abuse someone who isn’t even doing anything to threaten you. Perhaps you should head home and get your head on straight, since it obviously doesn’t sound like it is right now.” I say, not giving him a moment to speak, before pushing him out the door. After he gets over his shock, I hear him walk out, after which I sigh, before noticing the doctor looking at me a bit shocked. “Sorry about that. But I can’t stand listening to baseless slander. I’ll see you later, Doc.” I say, about to walk out.

“Igaku.” She states, before I can walk out.

“Hmm?” I ask, turning around.

“Igaku Ishi. That’s my name. I figure you may as well learn it if your going to come see me a lot.” She says, as I notice her work clothes are just a lab coat over a dark grey blue skirt, which doesn’t even reach halfway down her thighs. Over that is a studded red belt as well as the choker she had on last night.

“Nice to know. Hexan Tronic. See you around Ishi-chan.” I say, walking out onto the street, where I received a slap to the back of the head from Abigale.

“That was really reckless, you know.” She states, having climbed up to my shoulder. “Then again, if those accusations weren’t baseless, having helped her, she might be more trusting of you…” 

“Also, try to tone down the flirting. I heard what you called her.” She says, giving a small glare, before my phone goes off.

<You know there’s a shop in Shibuya that sells model guns.> Hayai starts. <I’d be glad to take you there if you want.>

<Oh right, you just transferred here, huh?> He continues. <Let’s go together, dude. I’ll show you around.>

<You at least know how to get to Shibuya Station, yeah?> He asks.

<Hey, I can’t make it. Can I trust you guys to check the place out for me?> Rirī asks.

<You can’t come?> Hayai asks, probably concerned.

<Not tomorrow.> She states. <I made plans to go see Hikui in the hospital.> She explains.

<Ah, gotcha. Don’t worry, we got this.> Hayai states with confidence. <Well, seeya in Shibuya Hexan! I’ll be in front of the station!> He finishes as they sign off.

“From the sounds of it, this place could be a good place to frequent, if the gear is good.” Abigale states. “Well, we can leave that for tomorrow. Let’s go home!”

------------------

When we got home, we rested for a bit, before Abigale starts talking.

“It’s going smoothly so far.” She states. “Once we’re prepared, let’s take on the Palace. That’s where the real fun starts, got it?”

I nod, before looking outside, and seeing the sky darken, leading to me looking over at Abigale.

“Let’s get an early night in.” I say, getting changed and into bed, while Abigale hops up and curls up beside me.

“Night Hexan.” She says, before we fall asleep.

------------------

4/17 Sun

Waking up the next day, nothing important happened, so I had something to eat and head out to meet Hayai. When I get up the stairs to Station Square, I see him waiting for me. He is wearing something other than his school uniform. A dark orange hoodie, with the hood down and a light yellow stripe running from his shoulder to his wrists, while the hoodie is unzipped, showing a black t-shirt with a circular yellow face, that has the eyes looking to the side, like it’s bored. His is also wearing simple black pants.

“Looks like you made it.” He says as I walk up to him. “Mkay, let’s get goin’. The shop’s over this way!” He says, turning around, showing the jacket has ‘777’ on the back.

He begins to lead me through station square, passed the green train by the main stairwell, where a politician is giving a speech.

“Everyone, wake up! This country is twisted!” The politician says, his voice carrying all around the area in front of him.

“It sounds like this man is saying some decent things, but not many people are stopping to listen…” Abigale says, watching from my bag.

“Eh, people give speeches all the time. Plus, politics are pretty boring anyway.” Hayai says. “We’re almost there. Just don’t get lost in the crowd.” He says, before heading off to Central Street.

“Follow me.” He says, leading me through the somewhat busy area. “This place can be pretty confusin’ to fine sometimes.”

I follow him into an alleyway a bit passed a diner, where we find an Airsoft shop, called ‘Last Man Standing’

“This is it. Pretty legit, huh?” Hayai says, sounding pleased with himself. “Oh yeah, now that we’re here… you know anything about military stuff?”

“I guess worst comes to worst we can just ask the shopkeep what they recommend. C’mon, let’s go.” He says, before we head inside.

The shop is full of military gear, as well as model guns. There is a pretty good song coming from the speakers somewhere in the room. 

Since Hayai is just standing around, I decided to take the lead and head up to the counter. Behind the counter is likely the Manager of the store. He is wearing a dark grey, hooded trench coat, under which is a black shirt. He is wearing a dark green cadet cap with dark grey sound canceling earmuffs wrapped around it. He also appears to be wearing some blue jeans and green camo combat boots.

When I get to the counter, he looks up from his magazine for a moment.

“You know what you’re looking for yet?” He asks, sounding disinterested.

“...You lookin’ for recommendations?” He asks, giving us some attention. I nod in reply. “... I dunno, just buy whatever looks interestin’ to you.”

“This’ll be a bit more difficult than I thought.” Hayai mutters.

“What are you looking for? And automatic? A revolver?” The manager asks. After a moment I think to myself, 'Perhaps he'd recognise some previous work?', and pull out the Tkachev Hayai gave me, holding the barrel.

“I’m looking for something similar to this.” I explain. He looks over the model weapon for a moment.

“I recognize this. I sold this not long ago.” He states.

“Yeah. I was the one who bought it. Me and my friend are enthusiasts, and after having a look at this one, we came for more.” Hayai says, going along with my plan.

“Alright then. Now I have an idea of what you’re looking for, any specifications?” The manager asks.

“I’m looking for something realistic.” I state.

“Oh ho, you guys plannin’ to rob a bank or somethin’?” He asks, in what I think is a joking tone, before he gets serious. “Alright, since you guys are enthusiasts, I’m going to tell you the precautions before I can see you anything.”

“First off, don’t go ‘round pointing ‘em at other people. Keep ‘em in a bag or somethin’ if you’re outside.” He states. “Second, don’t let the fuzz catch wind of your having ‘em. I don’t need them comin’ around here.”

“We’ll be cautious, we won’t do anything to risk you or your shop.” I say.

“Good. You sound reliable.” He says, before pulling out another gun, similar to my own. “Now, if you look close, you’ll be able to tell these’re models. Real guns feel… different.”

“Maybe someday I’ll show you the real good stuff though… if you got the guts for it, of course.” He says, basically saying I don’t look like I can handle it yet. “... But for now, you get the beginner selection. Just sit tight, I’ll bring a list out.” He explains, before heading into the back for the list.

“...We did it, dude.” Hayai says, smiling. “We totally gotta go for some fancy shit, right? I want ‘em to shine!”

“Oh, and here’s the cash for mine. Pick me out something good!” He finishes, passing me some yen, leaving me with a bit over ¥9,000. When I’m finished shopping, I have ¥816 left.  I decide to head on out, Hayai following me.

“Alright, from now on, I’ll let you do the choosin’ for any gear from this place. Get me the strongest one you can.” He says, as we walk out and I head home.

------------------

When I walked in, I notice one of the regulars is still enjoying their coffee.

“Boss, did you hear?” The haughty sounding regular asked. “Apparently that subway driver from the accident was acting really odd during his testimony hearing.”

“You talking about that psychotic whatever thing people are going on about?” Roast-san asks.

“Yeah, I heard it completely alters your personality.” The haughty man states. “The news is even saying the driver couldn’t even speak when they tried asking him questions.”

“There’s no way a preposterous story like that could be true.” Roast-san says. “Oh, and sorry, but we’re closing soon.”

“Hmph, how rude. This must be why you don’t get many customers.” The man states. “Your coffee’s actually not half bad. The beans must be lamenting the sorry state of this store…”

“Thanks for stopping in. Please come again.” Roast-san says.

“Hmph. I only say this out of politeness, but… Thanks for the coffee.” The man says, before leaving.

“Sheesh, what a pain…” Roast-san says, sounding tired. “Oh… What do you want? If you’re bored, go wash some dishes or something.”

“So you treat everyone like that, or just certain people?” I ask, curiously.

“I’m not going to wear a fake smile just to keep people happy. If people want good coffee or curry, they’ll come. If not, they won’t. It’s all good as long as the shop doesn’t fail.” He states.

“So that’s how you run things. Good to know.” I reply.

“As long as I’m here, the world leaves me be.” He says. “No annoyances or troublesome people to deal with. It’s like my own personal hideaway.”

“I’d be kinda screwed if I lost it, but I guess you would be too.” He continues. “So you better at least try to be useful around here.”

“Anyway, I’m leaving now. Don’t cause any trouble.” He finishes, before I head upstairs.

When I get up there, my phone goes off.

<I went to see Hikui at the hospital…> Rirī texts me, in a private message.

<How was she doing?> I ask, hoping for good news.

<Her condition is stable.> She says. <They don’t know when she’ll regain consciousness though.>

<I’m sure she’ll come though in the end.> I reply.

<Yeah. She’ll get better, I know it.> She texts back. <I just need to believe in her.>

<But… I’ll never forgive Kikku. He’s going to pay for what he did, no matter what.> She finishes, going offline.

“We’re just about ready to go to the Palace.” Abigale says. “We just need to assemble sine infiltration tools.”

“How about you clean off that desk back there so we can use it.” She suggests, pointing to a desk with a clear tarp over it. After a couple minutes, I’ve cleaned off the work desk, leaving a desk lamp and tool box with tools. I then sit down to get to work.

“I’ll provide the materials this time. Try making a lockpick.” Abigale suggests. I grab out the materials.

“Everyone starts off a little clumsy. Don’t be sad if it doesn’t go too well at first, OK?” She says, before instructing me on how to make the lockpick. After some time, I finish making the lockpick successfully.

“That looks great, we should be able to use this in the Palace.” Abigale states. “We should be about ready now.”

“We could probably head into the Palace tomorrow. Let’s get some sleep.” She says, before I prepare, and go to bed.