11/4 Wednesday
“Good morning!”
“GAH! Wait, Pharos?”
“This is the first time we’ve talked during the daytime,” Pharos said. “Nice weather, isn’t it? This is indeed a new day…for both of us. All the fragments of my memory…they’ve finally come together. I now know my role clearly. The time has come. As difficult as it may be, I must tell you something. I am afraid this is goodbye.”
Huh?
“I want you to know, for me, our friendship was a miracle. But miracles don’t last forever. If only they did.”
Minako sighed softly. “Nothing lasts forever.”
“Maybe you’re right. Even if there is such a thing as eternity, how would we ever know? It would be the same as if it didn’t exist. I shall treasure our conversations always. Even if today is the end, the bond between us can never be severed. Remember that.”
It’s strange to think that the confidant of my darkest thoughts was a ghost kid…
Thou art I and I am thou… Thou hast established a genuine bond
The innermost power of the Death Arcana has been set free
We bestow upon thee the ability to create Thanatos, the ultimate form of the Death Arcana
…even if he is always very creepy. Always!
Minako Amano has forged a bond that cannot be broken.
“It was fun while it lasted. Farewell.”
…I wonder if I will see him once more…
“Yo, Minako! Is your stomach ready?!” Junpei asked her while meeting her at the gate. “Tonight’s the big celebration! I’m gonna eat like there’s no tomorrow!”
“Yeah, I’m ready.”
“Me too! I haven’t eaten anything since yesterday! You better come right back after school, man! I’ll be waiting.”
Wow. That’s a lotta food. Hmmmmm. I wonder…
“Whoa. Nice spread,” Junpei said.
“The slices are huge!” Yukari shouted.
“Man, I’m starving… can we eat?”
“Hey, where are Aigis-san and Ikusuki-san?” Ken asked.
“He took her to the lab for a tune-up or something,” Akihiko responded. “He said they’d join us later.”
Fuuka giggled. “The chairman just can’t stay away from the lab, can he?”
The team could overhear a car pull up to dorm. “That must be my father,” Mitsuru said. And indeed, Mitsuru’s father entered in with two other suits. “We’ve been waiting for you.”
“So, it’s over at last, huh…” Takeharu Kirijo said.
“Yes.”
“Wh-who’s he?” Ken quietly asked.
“Can’t you tell? That’s Mitsuru-senpai’s dad. She looks exactly like him,” Junpei responded.
“Y-you think so?”
“Congratulations, everyone. You’ve done well. There are no words to express my gratitude,” the elder Kirijo said. “Though you will never receive the recognition you deserve, it is undoubtedly a monumental achievement.” He then turned to Yukari. “To you, I owe a special thanks for lending us your power to the very end.”
“Oh, it’s…it’s no big deal,” Yukari said.
Yeah, it really isn’t. I don’t think I hardly used her after we found out about her Dad. Which was more coincidental than anything else really.
“The 12 Shadows that were the cause of all our troubles have been destroyed, thanks to your efforts,” Takeharu continued. “You needn’t bear this burden any longer. You deserve a chance to experience the joys of youth. The Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad will be dissolved as of midnight tonight.” Yukari and Junpei were surprised at that. “No longer must you put your lives on the line in battle. Tomorrow, you can triumphantly return to a normal school life.” He noticed the sadness that seemed to permate the group. “Is something the matter?”
“Oh, it’s nothing…” Akihiko said.
“Alright everyone. It’s time to celebrate,” Mitsuru exclaimed. “Your feast awaits you. There’s no need to hold back; eat as much as you like.”
“Sweet! I’ve been waiting for you to say that!” Junpei shouted.
“Akihiko-senpai!” Minako said with a dramatic flourish. “I challenge you to a duel!” she said, dramatically pointing at him. “An eating duel.”
“I get the feeling she’s planned this for months,” Junpei commented.
“Despite the fact that having a party was only announced last night,” Ken responded.
“The one who eats the most sushi wins!” Minako exclaimed.
“Hmm. What’s the prize for winning?” Akihiko asked.
“These Chopsticks of Victory!” Minako pulled out a pair of chopsticks, which seemed to be nicked from Hagakure.
“I don’t think Akihiko-san will…” Yukari started.
“Accepted,” Akihiko grinned and said. “Let’s divvy the sushi!”
“…I stand corrected.”
“I’m sorry if this is disturbing you, father,” Mitsuru apologized as the dining table was used for an arena for dining.
He chuckled. “I expect this is a part of the youth you should all be enjoying. And don’t worry, we can order more if we run out.”
“If Aigis were here, we’d be able to accurately tell who ate how many,” Fuuka said. “So for this challenge we’ll have 10 pieces of sushi on each piece. The one who eats the most in 15 minutes wins.”
“Remember, leader, I will not go easy on you,” Akihiko said to her.
“At this point, I won’t expect you to.” Minako grinned and nodded.
Ken raised up a napkin and dropped and the race was on.
“And the food is flying!” Junpei started to run commentary. “Akihiko-san is in the lead with a strong shove-in techinique. But Mina-tan is slowly going on at a time. A steady pace that is.”
15 minutes later…
“And the winner is Minako!” Junpei exclaimed.
“Damn. I lost. Well it was a good bout. All I need to do is to train myself to be stronger,” Akihiko said to Minako, shaking her hand.
“Chopsticks are mine! Whooo!”
Not surprised we ended up partying until midnight.
“Now listen up, everyone!” Junpei exclaimed. “Well not that we’re all stuffed, how ‘bout we take a picture together? Actually I tried to take one last night but I forgot it wouldn’t work during the Dark Hour.”
“You mean you brought a camera with you into battle?” Akihiko asked.
Yeesh! He was fighting. Could have gotten destroyed and stuff.
“Well it was our LAST battle and all,” Junpei said. He then handed the camera to a suit. “’Scuse me, mister! Would you mind taking our picture?”
Yukari sighed. “I feel like such a tourist. But I have to admit, I kinda want a picture, too.”
Fuuka chuckled. “I’m so glad to have a photo with Yukari-chan and our leader. I’ll treasure it.”
“Oh wait, Ikutsuki-san and Aigis aren’t here. I guess we’ll have to take another one later,” Junpei said. “Alright everyone get together.” And everyone clustered around the front door. “C’mon squeeze tight! Everyone closer in to me!” Junpei said.
“Does that include me too?” Akihiko asked.
“Uh, no…not you.”
“Geez, let’s not keep this poor guy waiting all day to take the picture!” Yukari said. “Hey, we’re good to go. You can take the pictures anytime.”
“Time to strike a pose!” Junpei said.
“Ah—Hey, get your hand out of my face!” Akihiko said to Junpei.
“Is this just me or did this not get my good side,” Junpei remarked.
A mite bit of an understatement there Junpei.
“W-we’re gonna take another one after Aigis and Ikutsuki-san come back, alright!?”
“Yes, yes, we hear you,” Mitsuru replied. “I could get used to a worry free life like this.”
Koromaru barked happily. “How about you, Koro-chan? Are you glad to get all this meat?” Fuuka asked him. He barked again, happily.
I was actually worried for a bit we might have been broken up with the whole disbanding-of-SEES thing. But I guess we’re all sticking together for a little longer it seems. I’m really glad at that.
“Hey, how come nobody’s eating? Don’t tell me you’re full already!” Junpei said.
“Are you kidding? I’m stuffed,” Yukari replied.
“Me too,” Fuuka said. “I couldn’t eat another bite.”
“Akihiko-san and I had a contest. That’s my excuse,” Minako added.
“Well, then, how about you Senpai?” Junpei asked.
Mitsuru just moaned a bit at that. “I’m good for now,” Akihiko said.
“Alright. Wanna try some, Koromaru?” Junpei offered a small plate to him. Koromaru barked, eagerly.
“Don’t give the dog raw fish! You’ll make him sick!” Yukari reprimanded. That got a whimper out of Koromaru.
“I wonder what’s taking those two so long. It’s almost midnight.”
As on habit, the team turned towards the clock to see the last few seconds and…
Dark Hour
…no. No no no no no.
“…the hell!?” Junpei shouted.
“The guys in suits…they’ve transmogrified,” Ken noted. Koromaru barked angerly.
“I thought we ended the Dark Hour!” Junpei shouted. “Senpai, what’s going on?”
“I don’t know…” Mitsuru replied.
“Apparently, I was right to have my doubts,” Akihiko said.
“Yeah, something didn’t feel right,” Ken added in.
“No way…” Junpei mummered.
A bell suddenly chimmed out, loud and clear. “Hey, do you hear that? It sounds like a bell but where’s it coming from?” Yukari asked.
“Where’s Ikutsuki?” Takeharu Kirijo asked. “Well?! Why is he late?! He’s got Aigis with him, doesn’t he?!”
Mitsuru was just quiet for a bit, likely stunned but then. “Everyone…prepare for battle. We’re heading for Tartarus.”
“Um…to do what?” Fuuka asked.
“I dunno. But that’s where the sound is coming from. We have to find out what’s going on.”
Well, there is that huge gigantic tower as usual. And…
“Ikutsuki-san!” Akihiko shouted.
“Aigis? Why are you here?” Yukari asked.
Aigis…seems even more like a robot than usual. What’s wro-
“She’s here merely to fulfill her role – as a weapon,” Ikutsuki said.
“Huh?”
“Ikutsuki-san, what’s this all about?!” Junpei asked.
“You said the Dark Hour would disappear if we defeated the 12 Shadows,” Akihiko said. “That’s why we fought so hard! But now-”
“What is your intention?” Mitsuru asked. “It was all a lie, wasn’t it? You knew from the beginning that the Dark Hour wouldn’t disappear.”
“Excellent deduction, Mitsuru,” Ikutsuki said. “Unfortunately, your realization has come too late.”
“No…” Yukari said.
“You tricked us!?” Ken said angerly.
“Everything is as I planned. It is not unexpected that the Dark Hour and Tartarus remain. In fact, I never intended for you to rid the world of them. Quite the opposite, actually.”
“What do you mean?” Fuuka asked.
“The 12 Shadows were parts of a whole. They were destined to be reunited. And that was accomplished in no small part, thanks to your efforts. Soon, Death, the almighty, shall rise and bring forth the Fall.”
“Death?” Ken questioned.
“What are you talking about!?” Akihiko asked.
“The end of all shall come and free this world from despair. The death of everything but also, the beginning.”
“Wh-what is he saying? Is he out of his mind?” Yukari asked nervously.
“Ten years ago, I too, was a scientist for the project we’ve spoken of,” Ikutsuki explained. “The experiment went awry, but that is not why the Dark Hour and Tartarus were born. They manifested as a result of harvesting the Shadow’s power – just as the experiment was designed to do. That is why your grandfather gathered so many Shadows… to bring about the Fall.”
“That can’t be…” Mitsuru mumbled.
“People have filled the world, yet turned it into a void! The only hope of salvation lies in ruin! According to the prophecy, the Fall will be orchestrated by ‘the prince.’ And once the Prince has delivered us all, he shall rule the new world as King! The man who tried it ten years ago failed, but I will not; I shall succeed!”
“Man, he’s totally lost it!” Junpei said.
Yeah, I’d think so. Still, trying to catch all of this.
“I apologize for deceiving you, but this was for your sake as well. If you follow me for just a little while longer, you too will find salvation.”
“You call that salvation!?” Fuuka said.
“What the hell is going to happen!?” Minako asked.
“You will soon see for yourself…” Ikutsuki muttered.
“I have a question for you.” Yukari said. “In the video from my father, he said to defeat the Shadows, was that a lie too?”
“Ah, he did record that himself,” Ikutsuki answered. “Of course, I had to make some modifications.”
“You doctored it!?” Mitsuru asked
“I corrected it. Your father was a superb scientist. He may not have known it, but I truly respected him. While others focused on the Shadows’ abilities, he explored much more important things. But unfortunately, he could not comprehend the magnificent potential of the Fall.”
“What?” Yukari said.
“He left that recording at the expense of his life,” Mitsuru said angerly.
“It would seem so, but it did prove rather useful, so I’m sure he’s happy,” Ikutsuki responded.
“So you were behind it all!?” Yukari said angerly. “You used both me and my father!”
“‘Used’ is such an ugly word. It was for the sake of the world, so how could it be wrong?” Ikutsuki said.
Reaaaally wanna punch you in the face right now.
“Our role is to correct the mistakes of the past…” Mitsuru said, pulling out her evoker. “…and we intend to do just that.”
“I’m with you!” Minako shouted, grabbing hers as well.
Ikutsuki sighed. “How disappointing. I had hoped you would see the light, but you are just children after all, I suppose it can’t be helped. Aigis! The time has come for to fulfill your role. Capture them, and prepare them to be sacrificed!”
“Understood,” she replied. “Energy output… at maximum.”
“Aigis, what’s wrong?” Fuuka asked. “Aigis, please!”
Oh crap! She’s in her battle stance! I have to protect-
“Engaging.”
Mm. Ugh. Headache. Where am- Why is everyone being crucified!? Why am I being crucified?! Dramatic much?
“What the hell!?” she heard from an awakening Junpei.
“What is this!?” Yukari also shouted.
Annnd there’s everyone else.
“Dammit. I can’t get these off…!” Akihiko said.
“Father!” Mitsuru shouted. And indeed the elder Kirijo was being restrained by Aigis at that moment.
“Ikutsuki! What is the meaning of this!?” he asked.
“It is just as it appears,” Ikutsuki replied. “They are to be sacrifies – harbingers of the Fall. The arrangements are complete; the prophecy shall be fulfilled.”
“You son of a bitch. I’m gonna rip your head off!” Junpei shouted.
“My my, what a commotion. Aigis, direct your aim at Mr. Kirijo.”
“Affirmative.”
“Father!” Mitsuru shouted.
“You traitor! Are you insane?!” he shouted.
“Of course not. You know your father was an unlucky man,” Ikutsuki replied. “Even you, his son, after all this time, do not understand his vison.”
“My father was wrong. Death as a deliverance…that is not an ideology anyone should ever embrace!”
There are reasons to want to die but to make it your world view and thrust it upon others who don’t want it? No.
“Fool! You are but a nuisance now. Aigis! Go on ahead and give this man his honorable ‘deliverance!’”
“Wait! Please, Aigis! Noooo!” Mitsuru shouted, straining to break free of her restraints.
And indeed…Aigis seemed to not be able to shoot.
“What are you doing Aigis!?”
“I…am…” she said as she lowered her guns.
“Tch, fine. I’ll do this myself! Ten years…I wasted ten long years! I’m not like your father. I won’t make any exceptions!”
But at that exact moment, Takeharu broke free of Aigis’ grip and pulled out a gun.
…the two men shot each other at exactly the same time.
“Father…”
Takeharu slowly fell forward onto the ground, not to move again.
“Father!!”
Meanwhile… “Ugh, dammit.” Ikutsuki was shot in the stomach. “Aigis…execute the sacrifices! Let’s end this!”
Aigis slowly headed towards Minako. “Aigis!” Fuuka shouted.
“Snap out of it!” Junpei said.
Minako could also see at the corner of her eye, Ken desperately trying to break through.
“Come on, Aigis, you can fight it. I know you can,” Minako said to Aigis.
“Minako…san…Minako-san…” Aigis gasped.
“Finish them, Aigis!” Ikutsuki shouted.
Minako closed her eyes as gunshots began to ring out…and found herself on the ground, free of her restraints.
“Aigis!” Yukari said happily.
“Wha…!? You damned defective machine!” Ikutsuki said, stumbling back.
“You’re all alone now, and you’re injured on top of that,” Akihiko said. “Looks like this is it, Mr. Chairman.”
Ikutsuki chuckled. “You don’t get it do you!? It’s useless to search for hope or reasons to live in this pathetic world! A world this depraved must be started over from the beginning! And then! At long last! I will rule over the new world!” He laughed and stretched his hand out to the moon. “I…I was so close…” He laughed as it looked like he was going to take the moon…and fell off the tower…
So…was he delusional enough to believe he could rule over the dead?
“How did it come to this?” Yukari asked.
“Ikutsuki-san…” Fuuka said in disbelief.
“Father…” Mitsuru cried, clutching the body of her father close to her. “Father…” He made no response. “Father…One time, my father made a promise. He swore that he would atone for endangering our generation, even if it would cost him his life. But I…I wanted him to live…I…I became a Persona-user to protect him…” She sobbed. Yukari looked glumly at her.
I…don’t know what to do…
The Dark Hour was about to end. Akihiko picked up Mitsuru and everyone returned to the dorm, shocked and stunned.
11/5 Thursday 27 days until Full Moon…
…ho boy. Can’t miss school for anything. Kinda wish I could. I really hope Mitsuru-san is okay.
And this Fall thing…didn’t Pharos say something about it being the end of the world…
I’m…really scared…
Minako overheard the gosspiers talking about Mitsuru’s father. That he passed away from illness.
“I bet it’s tough to live without your parents.”
“Yeah, I know… I think I’ll help my mom cook dinner when I go back home…”
Minako received a text message from Akihiko after school. A meeting was called.
Only Mitsuru and Aigis are gone…and yet…
“The Chairman’s room has been cleared out,” Fuuka reported.
“Well, that’s no surprise, considering what he did,” Akihiko said.
“Aigis isn’t here either,” Fuuka added.
Yukari sighed. “I just can’t believe all of this.”
“It’s in the papers, too,” Ken said. “‘Sudden Death of Kirijio Group’s CEO.’ They blame it on illness though.”
“Yeah, it’s never the truth,” Akihiko said.
“Nope.”
Oh Ken…
“Mitsuru-senpai’s not here either,” Junpei noted.
“She’s an only child, so there’s a lot of matters to be settled, including the funeral and the family business,” Akihiko reported. “I’m sure she’ll be busy for at least a week.”
“That sounds rough…I hope she’ll be okay,” Yukari said.
“So, what are we supposed to do now?” Junpei uneasily asked. “What’ll happen to Chidori?”
“No word yet. They’re probably too busy to be thinking about that,” Akihiko reported. “In fact, the entire Kirijo Group must be in a state of shock.”
“I hope Aigis is alright,” Fuuka said.
“Yeah…”
“What the hell? Am I just supposed to wait for them to get their act together?” Junpei asked.
“Mitsuru is meeting with the Board of Directors. That might explain the delay,” Akihiko added.
“I see…but still, what are we going to do?” Yukari asked. “We have no idea how to get rid of the Dark Hour. We don’t even know what we’re fighting against.”
“What was that he said about ‘the Fall?’” Ken added. “What would have happened if we had been sacrificed?”
“There are so many unanswered questions,” Fuuka said.
I could be all cheerful and stuff but I’m not like big sis.
“What’s done is done and no use worrying now,” Minako said.
“True. But, there is one thing we know…Tartarus is still around, and there are a bunch of Shadows inside it,” Akihiko said. “We should train, so we’re ready for whatever it is we might have to face.”
Of course that’s Akihiko’s idea.
“I agree,” Ken said.
Why? Well…I guess that’s because we have nothing other to do.
“All right, let’s break for tonight. Rest yourselves well… even if you can’t sleep,” Akihiko said.
“Got it,” Yukari said.
“I hear yeah,” Junpei concurred.
Elsewhere, Yukari found the answer she was hoping for and in doing so, gained a new strength.
Minako sighed. “Hello Ken-kun,”
“What was Ikutsuki-san trying to say? He died before explaining the most important thing. I never thought he would be capable of doing such a thing.”
Well, you and I are wondering about the same thing.
“Psh, we respected Ikutsuki so much, that shit-face,” Junpei cursed. “Dude I am so pissed off. This would be a great time for one of those mind-erasers. I’m never gonna trust another adult again.”
Yeah…I am mad at that. But it’s underneath worry now.
“Mitsuru is a very strong person inside,” Akihiko said. “But, it’s as if she just got her insides ripped out. I hope she’s alright.”
Me too…
“We can’t go to Tartarus tonight…” Fuuka said. “I don’t think anyone wants to go anyways.”
Not like I can until Mitsuru feels up for it.
“- shocked by the sudden death of the Kirijo Group president. As a result of his death, an emergency meeting has been called…”
On the one hand, I really feel tired. On the other hand, I don’t want to put the effort into making myself feel better.
'I am going to do a stupid move and finally give my money to this Tanaka.
“Oh, there you are. We’ve hit a big of a snag. Some of our investors dropped out and we’ll need 10,000 yen more. Less investor’s means more profits for you! What do you say, are you in?”
Fuck it.
“Yes.”
Minako handed him the money. “My foolish little apprentice. Have you not yet realized that you are being deceived? Everything I’ve said has clearly been suspicious!” He sighed. “Ignorance should be a crime. Sure you have some positive qualities, but if you remain so naïve, everyone will take advantage of you. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to be a winner.”
Minako sighed heavily.
“Very well, young lady. If you insist, I’ll give you my autograph. It’s always a pleasure to meet a fan.”
“No, I don’t need one.”
“Don’t be silly. Never look a gift horse in the mouth. I’m sure you’ve seen the home-shopping program called ‘Tanaka’s Amazing Commodities.’ Allow me to introduce myself…”
He handed her a business card saying “President and Executive Producer Tanaka.”
“That’s right! I’m Tanaka. Surely you’ve heard the name.”
Thanks for the Balm of Life. Those are rare.
“I’m afraid I cannot return the 40,000 yen you gave me, but I autographed my business card for you. Hold onto that. It’ll be worth a pretty penny. Tootaloo.”
Minako spotted his fake smile give way to annoyance when he moved away and then just sat on the nearby bench. “That little brat. Doesn’t she realize she’s in the presence of a star!? I should have charged her extra for a private autograph signing…”
“I can hear you.” Minako said.
“Huh!? Wh-what do you want!? Quiet disturbing me! Shoo, shoo!” He then ran over. “D-did you overhear me talking to myself. You’ll forget it ever happened if you know what’s good for you. I belong to a powerful talent agency. I’m practically a celebrity. I have an image to maintain. Don’t even think abou telling someone ‘he took my money’ or ‘he called me a little brat!’ Capiche!?”
Minako grinned. “I’ll tell everyone.”
“Very funny. You may be cute but you’re no comedian.”
Yet you are sweating like a pig. Oh this is fun.
“Silly me! I’ve let you in on my secret haven’t I? Tee hee hee. Don’t tell anyone, okay!? Please! I’ll lick your shoes clean if you want me to!”
Minako sighed. “Fine. I’ll keep it a secret.”
“Seriously? You promise? I’ll make you swallow a thousand needles if you’re lying! A verbal agreement is considered a contract, and I’ll sue your pants off if you breach ours! I’ve got your adorable little face etched into my memory.”
Okay that’s getting creepy.
Thou art I and I am thou. Thou hast established a new bond.
Thou shalt be blessed when summoning Personas of the Devil Arcana.
…I really have to hang out with this guy some more?!
“But to tell you the truth, you might shine with a little polishing. I sense that you’re something more than your average pretty girl. What you need in the world is brains. Without brains, you can’t climb to the top. I usually take my breaks here. I’d be happy to mold your young mind whenever you wish.”
Minako headed back to the dorm, vowing to visit him as little as possible.
Dark Hour
“Welcome,” Igor said to Minako within her dream.
“Oh. It’s been awhile since this happened.”
“Now then, there has been a change in you recently. Have you noticed? And I am not referring to your change in circumstances.”
Oh yeah, they knew about the kid’s contract. So they would likely know that the kid’s gone.
“I am referring to the change in your mentality.”
…so…is that about the kid?
“That is why I summoned you here tonight. Going forward, there is one thing you mustn’t forget.” He slid the contract towards her. “I see you recognize it. Shall I remind you of your commitment? ‘I chooseth this fate of mine own free will.’ There is no need to worry. Which ever path you choose, I shall respect your decision. However, only you, will bear the responsibility of your actions, no matter what end they may bring about. Please remember that.”
…so I have a choice coming up?
“Well then, I bid you farewell.”
Minako: Level 53
Persona
Dominion - Justice - Level 45
Titania – Lovers – Level 52
Nebiros – Hermit – Level 55
Quetzalcoatl – Sun – Level 46
Kaiwan – Star – Level 52
Koumokuten – Chariot – Level 43
Taraka – Hermit – Level 38
Throne – Justice – Level 55
Social Links
Fool Rank 7
Magician MAX
Priestess Rank 9
Emperor Rank 7
Hiero. MAX
Lovers Rank 7
Chariot Rank 7
Justice Rank 8
Hermit MAX
Strength Rank 6
Hanged MAX
Death MAX
Temper. Rank 7
Devil Rank 1
Star Rank 6
Moon MAX
Sun Rank 6
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