-Thursday, December 3rd

After class we all agree to go to the meeting room to talk about the events that happened last night.

Mitsuru: Alright it seems that everyone's here.

Yukari: What's going on here I thought you told us that Ryuji would still be nice to us when he started regaining his memories?

Austin: Originally he would have. It seems that the black mask has him under some sort of mind control.

Chidori: Maybe that's what happened with Takaya-san and Jin-san as well?

Austin: It's odd though. It felt like when I fought against them they weren't afraid of getting injured. Persona Armaments do give you a slight buff but the attacks thrown at you should still hurt. Maybe it's possible that the masks are blocking their pain receptors.

Akihiko: Yeah, that can be possible. Every time I landed a hit on him he moved as if he wasn't even hurt. Another thing that worries me is why they fell lifelessly once the masks were destroyed.

Austin: It could just be that once the masks were destroyed they felt all the damage thrown on them all at once.

Mitsuru: That could be a possibility. Another problem is why that Mask got so much stronger since the last time we saw it and why it is wearing Ikutsuki's body?

Austin:

It's because he takes joy in watching humans suffer, but it's not like I can say that out loud.

Arisato: Don't worry about it too much Austin-san we understand the dilemma you're in. I think we're all starting to realize why it's gotten stronger too.

…Yeah, even though I haven't spoken about it the others still worried about its existence. especially due to its constant reappearances.

Fuuka: I guess it's pretty hard not to think about something that's constantly showing up huh?

Arisato: We'll just have to find a way to beat it while considering it's constant growing strength.

Junpei: *sigh* ah man why does it feel like things just keep getting harder to understand.

Mitsuru: Well enough on that. Thinking about it is just going to cause more trouble anyways.

Shinji: We still have to worry about Nyx as well. You know something about it right Austin-san?

Austin: Yes, from what I know Nyx is created when the 12 shadows are destroyed and joined back together we already know that. What you guys don't know is that there was actually a 13th shadow, that being Ryuji. Ten years ago during the explosion Aigis chased after the 13th shadow but wasn't strong enough to destroy it. during the battle there was a car accident and Aigis got the idea to implant the shadow into a survivor of the crash. That survivor being Arisato.

The others look at Arisato in shock.

Austin: The shadow existed inside of you as the ghost known as Pharos. Later on after we defeated the 12 shadows Pharos gained the strength to leave your body and become Ryuji who will later become Nyx. Once Nyx is awakened it is supposed to destroy all life.

Akihiko: Destroy all life?

Austin: Yes but as I've said before you guys do manage to stop it from doing so.

Mitsuru: Yes, but not without a sacrifice.

Austin: …yeah.

Junpei: Well then all we have to do now if figure out a battle plan to defeat this Nyx and everything will be fine.

Austin: It's not that easy anymore. The black mask has gotten Ryuji and in that sense has Nyx. I don't know what it has in mind for taking him but it must not be anything good. I also don't like the idea of Nyx wearing one of his masks.

Junpei: … Damn it.

Akihiko: So then what will we need to do to defeat them now?

Austin: …I'm not entirely sure.

Yukari: We seem to have no choice but to fight then.

Junpei: Yeah, I'm fine with that idea. It's nice and simple.

Akihiko: Let's keep training and get strong enough to take that thing on!

Austin: Haha well you guys are more determined than I remember you all being.

Arisato: It helps knowing that these so-called unbeatable enemies are actually beatable.

Yukari: Yeah I don't know what I would think if we weren't told about this.

Chidori: Well then for now let's proceed to training and prepare for the upcoming battle.

Austin: Haha fine by me. let's go.

We wait for the dark hour to come so we can train at the moonlight bridge. Everyone seems determined to make sure that things will end well and will not take no for an answer.

-Friday, December 4th

On the way to school I run into Junpei who's leaving to school with Chidori I decide to go join them.

Austin: Hello, and how's the cute couple?

Chidori: P-Please don't say it in that way.

Chidori blushes.

Junpei: Haha as you can tell we're doing rather well! Actually do you have any plans after school Austin-san?

Austin: Me? No not really, why do you ask?

Junpei: Well after school can we talk about something?

Austin: Sure, I'm game with that.

Junpei: Awesome, I'll see you after school then.

That was… strange. Once school is over I meet up with Junpei at the school exit.

Junpei: Hey, ready to go?

Austin: yup.

Junpei: Alright, Let's go to the arcade!

We head out to the arcade where we play some games for a few hours. once it got dark we begin to head out back to the dorm.

Junpei: Hey um I wanted to thank you for dealing with me earlier in the year. I know I was being an ass during that time.

Austin: Huh, you were?

Junpei: Well, when we first met I was so jealous about your ability that I couldn't help but be a bit spiteful with you and Arisato-san and yet you guys stuck with me anyways. Now I feel like an ass for doing so after you've been fighting so hard to save someone who was so important to me. Here I wanted to give you this.

Junpei hands me a baseball… it seems to be signed by him.

Junpei: Haha I don't think I ever told you but when I was a kid I wanted to become a pro baseball player. I gave up on that dream when I saw many kids playing better than me. I didn't even try to catch up, I just stuck with that thought of "well what ya gonna do". Since then I would constantly just coast around and let things pass by. Not anymore, I'm going to push myself forward and become a real pro baseball player. Who knows I may still have the chance of becoming pro that happens you'll be able to tell everyone how you're friends with the famous Junpei Iori professional baseball star! I wont just give up before even trying anymore.

Junpei eyes glow with determination… I hear a voice in my head "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Magician chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities." Once the voice in my head stops a blue burning card appears in front of Junpei.

Junpei: What is this? I feel a new sense of strength.

Junpei crushes the card summoning Hermes in real life.

Junpei: No way… So, this is what happens when you accept yourself. I'll make sure to push for a future worth living. You'll help out as well right Austin-san?

Austin: Without a doubt.

We head back home soon after. after studying for the upcoming exam I go to bed.

-Saturday, December 5th

On the way to school I run into Shinji.

Shinji: Good morning Austin-san.

Austin: Good morning, how have classes been treating you?

Shinji: …it could have been better. Would you like to go grab a beef bowl after class?

Austin: Sure, I'm game.

Shinji: Alright I'll see you then.

After class I meet up with Shinji at the school exit. We head out to the beef bowl place and order ourselves some food.

Shinji: Haha I remember the first time we ate here you instantly called me a coward while I complained about my own guilt.

Austin: Haha yeah, I remember you getting really mad at me for saying that too.

Shinji: Well that was rather rude of you to say. I remember that being the first time I thought something was up although back then I thought you may have been a Strega informant.

Austin: Heh who's being rude now?

We finish our food then head outside.

Shinji: I wanted to thank you for helping me. So, here.

Shinji hands me a white card with a cute emblem that looks almost like Koromaru.

Shinji: I've decided that once I graduate to open my own restaurant. Fuuka is most likely going to college and become a huge success with some sort of electronics. She actually built me these headphones and the sound from them is unbelievable! I no longer plan on letting the past hold me in place. I will carry all of these regrets and move onward. It's thanks to you that I've gotten to have this life and I'll be sure to make it a life worth living… Thank you.

Shinji's eyes are full of determination… I hear a voice in my head. "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Hierophant chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities." Once the voice stops I see a blue burning card appear in front of Shinji.

Shinji: So this is the potential within the strength of one's heart.

Shinji crushes the card summoning Castor in real life.

Shinji: Haha I guess I haven't gotten the chance to tell you but Fuuka and I are dating now. It became official during the trip in Kyoto.

Austin: Haha we all noticed. Fuuka was the one to ask first wasn't she?

Shinji: Y-Yeah…

Shinji's face goes red.

Austin: Haha I'm only messing with ya. Congrats man!

Shinji: This is just another thing you've managed to allow me to experience. I'll make sure to gain more experiences like this from now on.

Shinji and I continue talking till dark where we head back to the dorm. I continue to study for the upcoming exam.

-Sunday, December 6th

I ended up sleeping through the whole morning. After rushing to get myself ready I head downstairs where I see Fuuka enjoying a coffee while reading a book.

Fuuka: Oh, good morning Austin-san. How are you doing today?

Austin: I'm doing good, how about you?

Fuuka: I'm good. Do you happen to have some time today? I was wondering if maybe you'd like to talk for a little bit?

Austin: Huh, sure.

Fuuka: Alright, let's go to Chagall Café.

We head down to Chagall Café where we order ourselves a cup of coffee and a pastry.

Fuuka: Oh, these look really good! I wonder if Shinji could make these?

Austin: Haha I could see him trying to figure out the recipe while he's eating it.

Fuuka: Haha I can totally see that!

Austin: And how's your relationship going?

Fuuka chokes on her coffee… Maybe I should have waited till after she finished her sip.

Fuuka: Y-You knew?

Austin: Haha how do you think Mitsuru and Yukari found out.

Fuuka: … I was wondering why they kept asking me about him back in Kyoto. Then I guess it was thanks to you three that I gained the confidence to tell him how I felt. Get this, after he told me that he was going to open his own restaurant I offered to join him and he said I should focus on my studies instead!

Austin: Haha well I feel that you'd make better technology than food anyways.

Fuuka: Well… you're not entirely wrong.

After some time we begin to head back to the dorm.

Fuuka: Here I wanted to give you this.

Fuuka hands me a pair of headphones.

Fuuka: I wanted to thank you for everything you've done for me. I was rather timid before I made friends with everyone that it actually feels rather silly that I acted the way I did back then. The others got me to get out of my shell and you saved the life of the man I love. I hope to be able to make more happy memories with everyone in the future. I plan to go to college after I graduate and improve my technological skills. Who knows, maybe Mitsuru's company will hire me too.

Fuuka's eyes shine with determination… I hear a voice in my head. "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Priestess chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities." Once the voice stops a burning blue card floats down towards Fuuka.

Fuuka: This is? Has my power grown stronger?

Fuuka reaches out and crushes the card summoning Juno into the real worlds.

Fuuka: The strength to sense life is a rather interesting ability I'll make sure to have full use of it.

We make it back to the dorm soon after.

-Monday, December 7th

On the way down to the living room I run into Akihiko who seems to be getting ready to run to school.

Austin: Morning Akihiko, going out for a run?

Akihiko: Morning, yeah I thought I'd go for some early morning training. Would you like to do some training after school today?

Austin: Sure I'm game! But first...

I get into a running position next to Akihiko.

Austin: Lets race to see who gets to school first.

Akihiko: Haha You're on!

Akihiko and I start racing to the school… I lost. After classes are over I meet up with Akihiko and we do some light sparing. Akihiko's movements have gotten sharper, it's getting harder to land counters on him. the sparing lasts for a while. After training is over we head out to eat some beef bowls.

Akihiko: Damn, you've gotten a lot better since the last time we spared. I was seeing stars a couple times.

Austin: Haha well I have been training almost every night.

We continue to eat our food and begin to walk back to the dorm.

Akihiko: I wanted to give you this.

Akihiko gave me a pair of metal knuckled gloves.

Akihiko: You can use these in case you drop your Bo Staff…I've been getting some strange visions recently. It was of a funeral, Shinji's funeral. I would walk up to the picture of Shinji's memorial and suddenly I would see myself in the alleyway and in front of me Shinji shielding Ken from a gun pointed straight at him. I'd try to run towards him to save him but I would never make it in time. every time he gets shot I get sent back to just before it happens. I would keep running and running but I would just never make it in time. I thought I could do it all by myself if I got strong enough. Recently those dreams would change and I see you running passed me protecting Shinji. I'm happy that he's survived but I'm also a little bitter that it wasn't me who saves him. I guess I've been a little jealous of the power you and Arisato-san have.

Austin: … I'm sorry, I didn't know.

Akihiko: Haha it seems that even in a world you claim to have large knowledge of can still hit you with surprises.

Austin: Haha well I am only human.

We share a laugh as Akihiko stares off into the distance.

Akihiko: I won't allow these thoughts to hold me back! I will keep getting stronger and I will surpass both of you. Just you wait, it'll be you two following after me when that happens!

I see the determination in Akihiko's eyes… I hear a voice in my head. "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Emperor chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities." Once the voice stops a blue card appears in front of Akihiko.

Akihiko: Heh I guess this means I'm one step closer.

Akihiko crushes the card summoning Caesar.

Austin: You know you're not entirely right in that statement though.

Akihiko: Huh?

Austin: You've been just as strong as us for a long time. There's no way we could have made it as far as we have without your strength.

Akihiko: Is that so huh?

Akihiko gets ready to run again.

Akihiko: Well for now how about last one home has to buy the winner a drink?

Austin: Haha You're on!

We race down to the dorm soon after… I lose and buy Akihiko a drink.

-Tuesday, December 8th

Once school is over I see Chidori sitting on a bench drawing.

Austin: Hey, it's odd not seeing you with Junpei. Get in a fight already?

Chidori: That's rude, Junpei is just busy studying for the upcoming exam… after some proper motivation.

…I worry what she said to make Junpei of all people focus on his studies.

Chidori: Well My schedule is cleared today and I have some question I've wanted to ask you. Would you like to go somewhere?

Austin: Huh sure I know of a good café if you'd like to join me.

Chidori gets up.

Chidori: Okay, let's go.

We head down to Chagall Café where we order ourselves a coffee.

Chidori: What was it like, in your world?

Austin: It wasn't anything special, if anything it was more bland than this world. Things like Persona and Shadows were just works of fiction so all I ever really worried about was what to do the next day.

Chidori: is there anyone you miss from there?

Austin: I guess my family and a couple friends but to be honest I was never that close to any of them. At least not enough to see them often. I didn't really make any friends until I was 19 and even then I was just brought along for the ride sometimes. I would always hear them talk about their childhood friends and how they would always be there for each other but in my point of view I feel like I was just the odd man out. I sometimes feel a little uncomfortable to be around everyone so often since I'm not very use to people actually wanting to spend time with me.

Chidori: 19? Ah yes I forget you also got younger when you were brought here.

Austin: Haha I feel like Junpei may have just given you the minor pinpoints of the few things he understood.

Chidori: *giggle* Yeah, It sounds like him to do that. Do you miss it, that world?

Austin: … To be honest I don't know. I've been thinking about my world less and less throughout the day due to everything that has been going on. That world feels more like a dream continually shrouding itself in a deep fog. I would sometimes dream I was back in my apartment and I was never brought here but the faces of everyone there was missing. Just faceless humans surrounding me, asking me what's wrong as if I was the one with a problem. I would always ended up waking up after seeing my own reflection also missing it's face.

Chidori: … could you be losing the part of yourself that originated in that world?

Austin: I don't think it's anything as serious as that. I think I've just gotten comfortable with the way this world has been going.

Chidori: … that's a little sad though. To be away from everything that made you who you are and reappearing in a place where you shouldn't have existed in the first place.

Austin: Haha I cant deny it was a hassle at first but the friends I've made have helped in pushing me forward.

Chidori looks down to see her phone vibrating.

Chidori: It's Junpei, he's asking where I am.

Austin: Haha well we can't leave him waiting. You know how his imagination goes.

Chidori: *giggle* good idea, let's go.

We head down to where Junpei is as we hang out for a little while talking about how they've met. And me throwing some jabs at an embarrassed Junpei talking about his behavior change after meeting Chidori. After some time we all head back to the dorm.

-Wednesday, December 9th

After school I see Ken walking back from school.

Austin: Hey, long day today?

Ken: Oh hey Austin-san. I was just at the library for a while I was thinking of going to the shrine to talk to mom would you like to join me?

Austin: Sure.

We head out to the shrine where we do a prayer… come to think of it this is the first time I actually did a prayer. I was so caught up with spying on Arisato and Yukari last time that I completely forgot about it. I look to my side to hear Ken start praying to his mom.

Ken: Hey mom, it's me. I'm sorry I haven't been coming as often. Things have changed quite a bit. I've made some new friends, they're all a bit older than me but they treat me kindly. I worry that you'd see them as bad influences since we do a lot of dangerous things. You see I've been fighting these monsters called Shadows with them and we're currently working together to try and save the world! Haha yeah I know it's rather hard to believe.

Ken would continue talking about what has happened so far and how he's happy to be with all of us.

Ken: I still miss you mom, I wish you would be here to tell me how proud you are of me.

Tears begin to well up in Ken's eyes.

Ken: I was so hung up on revenge at first that I feel stupid now for spending so much time thinking about it. you know, I've actually become friends with the guy who did this to you. He's actually very nice. He's like a big brother I've never had. For me they are my new family. They will do anything to help me and I would do the same for any one of them. We're getting ready for a big fight soon but I promise you that we will not fail. We will stop the end of the world.

I can see the determination in Ken's eyes… I hear a voice in my head "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Justice chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities." After the voice stopped a blue flamed card floats in front of him.

Ken: Thank you mom, I will keep fighting and make sure the world is saved.

Ken crushes the card summoning Kala-Nemi.

Ken: I'm sure you'll be there to protect me too, mom.

As his persona disappears he starts to walk away.

Ken: Thanks for coming Austin-san. I don't think I've gotten to introduce mom to any of you guys yet.

Austin: Haha well then next time lets introduce everyone ok?

Ken: Alright!

We proceed to head back to the dorm soon after.

Ken: Oh right, I wanted to give you this.

Ken hands me a silver key.

Ken: It's the key to my house. The house itself had burned down a long time ago but I always kept this key with me. I recently started to remember about all the fun times I had when my mom was alive. I kept myself from remembering them focusing more about how sad and angry I was during that night but now I want it to mean something different. That although how hard life can be it will get better overtime. I'm giving this to you because you're the one that taught me that. How you keep moving forward no matter how absurd or difficult a situation is you keep trying to move further and I want to do the same thing. I will pave the way to my own future.

Austin: Thank you, I'll treasure it.

-Monday, December 14th

Exams start today, since my blunder when I first appeared I have been doing better and better. since then I had been going up the ranks and recently I've made it into the top 10. I fly through all the questions as if they were nothing it seems that I've remember all the questions asked during class.

-Saturday, December 19th

Exams have ended today and I feel rather confident this time around. On the way out I run into Mitsuru who's just exited the student council office.

Austin: Hey, how do you think you did with the exams?

Mitsuru: I feel confident that I passed with a high score. How about you? You seem to be in a better mood than the first time you took the exams.

Austin: Haha I was a lot more prepared this time around. Best be worried I might end up in a higher rank than you this time around.

Mitsuru: *giggle* well then I look forward to it. if you have some time would you like to grabbing a coffee?

Austin: Sure, let's go!

We head down to Chagall Café, after a week of exams it feels nice having a cup of coffee at a café.

Mitsuru: I told my father everything we've learned about your situation. he didn't seem very surprised but did say that he understands why you said you didn't have the time to explain everything back in the island. He says that there are a few things he'd like to get answered but only once after he catches up to all the work he missed from his time being unconscious.

Austin: Well it's good to hear that he's in good health, and as busy as ever.

Mitsuru: *giggle* He knew you were going to say something like that. Here, I wanted to give you this.

Mitsuru gave me a small silver key.

Mitsuru: My father wanted to thank you for saving his life so he has gotten you a new motorcycle.

I look down to the key on my hand and whisper to myself.

Austin: …rich people are scary.

Mitsuru: Hmm?

Austin: Oh nothing, I'll gladly take it.

Mitsuru: You currently don't have your license so you have to get one to drive it ok? It has been specially made like mine so it will be able to run during the dark hour as well. .

Austin: I… don't know what to say but thank you. I'll cherish it.

After finishing our coffee we begin to head back to the dorm.

Mitsuru: In saving my father you helped me as well didn't you? If he were to have died I would have had to take control as the head of the Kirijo group. I'm sure I would have done well but I also know that I would have lost my chance to be a normal person… I've been talking to my father and once I graduate I'm thinking of starting a special operation unit focused on stopping events like this from happening again. It will take some time and my father has told me that I should take some time in college as well so I'll see what the future holds for me.

I see the determination in Mitsuru's eyes… I hear a voice in my head "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Empress chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities". Once the voice stops a blue flamed card floats in front of her.

Mitsuru: It seems that my determination has grown new strength.

Mitsuru crushes the card summoning Artemisia.

Austin: The second I graduate I'll definitely give you a call! Also how about that fiancé of yours?

Mitsuru looks at me with surprise.

Mitsuru: Ah, so you knew about that? I recently talked with my father to call it off. I will be moving forward for the sake of my own happiness not the companies anymore. Maybe I'll try dating once I'm in college.

Austin: Haha you totally got to tell me how that goes.

Mitsuru blushes a little as she smiles back.

Mitsuru: *giggle* You best tell me the same when you start as well.

Austin: Haha it feels a little weird doing that with how old I actually am.

Mitsuru: Nonsense, you're physically 15 years old no matter how old you are mentally. You shouldn't use that as an excuse to not find happiness. You're stuck with us for now on.

Austin: Haha thanks, I'll keep that in mind.

When we make it back Mitsuru show me my new bike. it exactly the same as Mitsuru's bike but with the colors reversed. I can't wait to get my license and drive this thing!

-Sunday, December 20th

I wake up to a knocking on my door.

Yukari: Hey it's me, can I come in?

Austin: One sec!

I quickly get dressed and then open the door.

Austin: Good Morning

Yukari: Hey, do you have any plans later today? Mind if we hang out for a bit?

Austin: Sure what do you wanna do?

Yukari: How about the Wakatsu Restaurant by the strip mall?

Austin: Sure, I haven't tried that place out yet. '

Yukari: Alright let's go!

We make it down to the restaurant. I can smell the broiled fish in the air. It smells so good that I've started to get hungrier. We order our food and take a seat.

Austin: Oh. My. God. This is amazing!

Yukari: Haha right!? I came with Arisato a couple times and it has been really good every time!

We finish our food and start to head back to the dorm.

Yukari: Here I wanted you to have this.

Yukari hands me a Jack Frost phone strap.

Yukari: I was originally going to give you my old phone strap but…

Austin: Haha planning to give that one to Arisato?

Yukari blushes.

Yukari: Y-Yeah. He helped me get over a lot of personal stuff I was going through and is helping me reconnect with my mother.

Austin: Haha don't worry about it.

Yukari: I still wanted to give you something too. You helped me realize how I felt for him and that I shouldn't waste so much time moping about the past. I will never forget about my father but I will never use it as an excuse to stop moving forward as well. I plan that after this is over to continue making new memories with my friends. I will keep fighting until that future comes.

I can see Yukari's determination… I hear a voice in my head. "I am thou, thou art I, thou has established a true bond... With the end of the Lovers chapter you have paved the road to new possibilities". Once the voice stops a blue flamed card appears in front of Yukari.

Yukari: Is this my new power?

Yukari crushes the card summoning Isis.

Yukari: I'll keep moving farther and get stronger along the way.

Austin: Sooo when are you going to tell Arisato?

Yukari Blushes.

Yukari: W-Wha…

Austin: Haha Arisato can be a little dense so it may be difficult if you don't make the first move.

Yukari: …Yeah I can't deny that.

Austin: How about this Christmas?

Yukari: …That… could work!

Yukari turns around facing back to the mall.

Yukari: I'm gonna go get a gift for him while I'm at it I'll talk to you later ok?

Yukari runs off soon after so I head back to the dorm.

-Thursday, December 24th

I told Mitsuru about Yukari and Arisato's date today and we decided to follow after them. We keep a safe distance so they wouldn't see us.

Austin: We really gotta get disguises for this. It could make things much easier.

Mitsuru: … in hindsight yeah that would have been useful.

During their date we see them sitting on the fountain in the middle of the mall. To Yukari's surprise Arisato hands her a present. Inside was the stuffed animal he got for her during the Kyoto trip. Yukari hands Arisato a cake and a box holding her old phone strap. He opens it in surprise and smiles as he places the strap on his phone. They hold hands with their faces blushing. They look at each other slowly bringing their faces closer together-

Junpei: HEEEEY!

…Damn it Junpei. Soon after hearing him Yukari and Arisato quickly let go of each other's hand waving hello to Junpei who's holding hands with a face-palming Chidori. We walk down soon after.

Junpei: Hey… What are you guys doing walking together.

Austin: Oh you know just walking around and looking at the pretty lights.

Mitsuru: Everything was so nice and bright but a cloud of annoyance made things a little more foggy.

Arisato and Yukari start looking at the floor blushing while Junpei looks at us confused. Chidori tries to hide her embarrassment with no success.

Junpei: Huh? Foggy? You guys feeling ok?

Chidori sees the blank stares we're giving Junpei and quickly starts pulling him away.

Chidori: Junpei… Let's go this way… I apologize for the trouble.

Junpei: Huh? Um ok… see you guys later.

Arisato:

Austin:

Mitsuru:

Yukari: …well, we've finished for the day how about we all go back home?

Arisato: Agreed.

Austin: Alright.

Mitsuru: Affirmative.

We all head home soon after. Mitsuru and I nod at each other in the mutual agreement that we will NOT let them get in the way again!

-Monday, December 28th

Arisato and I agree in going to Tartarus today. We didn't get to go last month so we're very far behind. Luckily with how strong our group has gotten we'll be able to fly past all the floors. I seem to have gotten stronger through completing some social links. I was able to fight through enemies without even needing to use my armaments. The same was to be said about the others. They all quickly rush in and land intense damage without even needing to summon their persona. They still have their habit of summoning their persona through their evoker but some of them don't exactly need to use it anymore. It seems that those who have gained the blue cards can do partial armaments as well being able to power up their weapons with their persona's power. While fighting against the last sub-boss I summoned a new Armament through fusing.

Austin: Persona fusion. Centipede, Deadman.

The magic circle passes through my body. My torso gets covered with a white almost bone-like armor, through the upper back of my shoulder blades six cross shaped blades appear in front of me, through my lower back two serrated tendrils appear allowing me to move as I wish while also being able to freely change its size, My hair turns white and my left eye turn black with a red pupil.

Austin: Persona Armament, One Eyed Peacekeeper!

The speed of this form is intense, I can use the bladed crosses as both shields and swords while using the two tendrils on my lower back to move me freely. My left and right arm stay as claws like my One Eyed King armament allowing me to use the claws for combat as well.

We make it to the 214th floor where we see in front of us a rainbow spiral staircase with a spiral fence blocking the way. This seems to be the furthest we can go so we head home soon after.

-Tuesday, December 29th

I wake up today to a continual knocking on my door.

Austin: I'm up! Who is it?

Elizabeth: It is I, Elizabeth. May you kindly open the door?

I quickly get dressed and open the door.

Austin: Um… might I ask why you are at the front of my door?

Elizabeth: Well it seems that Arisato-san had been far too busy for a certain special request of mine and so I wanted to see if you'd like to help me?

Austin: Um, what kind of special request?

Elizabeth: I have grown an interest in your world and so I request if you can show me around?

Austin: Oh that? Sure, I'm on break anyway so where would you like to go first?

Elizabeth: Might I ask if we could look around the place known as a mall?

Austin: Sure, let's go!

We head down to the Paulownia Mall where Elizabeth instantly runs off towards the wishing fountain pouring large amounts of coins. She then quickly moves to the location of the club and starts dancing in front of the door. At each stop she has a rather colorful explanation to what each thing is.

Elizabeth: What do you thing Austin-san?

Austin: Haha I think you're supposed to do that inside the club when it's open.

Elizabeth: Oh dear, is what I've done something that is considered as odd.

Elizabeth looks down in disappointment.

Austin: Haha just a little bit but don't worry it'll take more than this to embarrass me!

Elizabeth: … By chance are you one of those "odd types" people talk about?

Austin: Well… I cant exactly deny that due to me not really being of this world. The social norms between mine and this world are the same thought so I can move around a bit more freely.

Elizabeth: How interesting! Well then let us go to the next location, I'll allow you to pick where to go as I go to these two other fountains I have found.

Elizabeth runs off pouring a crazy amount of money into the two other fountains… just how much money did she bring? She rushes back soon after.

Elizabeth: This has been much fun! Where would you like to go next?

Austin: Well if you'd like how about we go to the karaoke place?

Elizabeth: Well that sounds interesting. Let's go!

We go to the Karaoke bar for a short while as Elizabeth spends most of the time doing the singing. We walk out after we ran out of time.

Elizabeth: Now I would like to go to the place called Iwatodai Station!

Elizabeth runs off in excitement as I follow after her. Once we're off the train she has fun walking down the upwards escalator. She then runs with excitement to the pothole that's getting fixed. The way everything excites her is honestly really adorable! Once we make it to the area with all the restaurants Elizabeth runs towards the takoyaki shop. I stop her from dropping her whole wallet on one package of takoyaki and explained monetary values to her. She was embarrassed for a little while but was back in high spirits after having some takoyaki. Once done here we end up going to all the restaurants around the area eating almost everything… I need a second to digest. I sit down with Elizabeth.

Elizabeth: We seem to have exhausted the culinary possibilities in this area.

Austin: Yeah... I didn't think someone so small could eat so much.

Elizabeth: Ah, is the amount of food I consume also an odd commodity?

Austin: Nah, it's not the most common but it's no odd commodity either.

Elizabeth: …Very well then. I would like to go to the shrine next!

Elizabeth runs out again as I try follow close behind. We make it to the shrine where she drops another sack full of money in the offerings area and then pulling multiple fortunes. Once she's satisfied we make it to the small playground where Elizabeth has fun sliding down the slide on her feet, getting stuck in the jungle gym, and having trouble balancing on top of the balance beams. Once she had her fill we sat on a bench next to the park.

Elizabeth: Today has been a very enjoyable time. I thank you for showing me around. I would have liked to go to the place known as a school but it seems that everyone is in their "winter break" and the school is closed as of this time. Well no matter, once you start classes I hope you can take me there.

Austin: Sure, I had a lot of fun today.

I smile at Elizabeth and she looks down with her hand on her chest. It seems that we've gotten a little closer… I hear a sound in my head "I am thou, thou art I… thou has acquired a new bond. With the power of the World arcana thou has open the path to a new chapter".

Elizabeth: Huh? What is this? It seems that I have become a social link for you as well… W-Well then I believe that is all for today. I look forwards to having you show me around again.

I take Elizabeth back to the Velvet Room as I enter soon after.

Igor: Welcome to the velvet room, I hope my assistant didn't cause you any trouble?

Austin: Oh no not at all. If anything it was a rather enjoyable time.

Igor: I see… Very well then.

I look back to see a relieved looking Elizabeth.

Austin: I would like to ask something though.

Igor: How can I be of assistance?

Austin: Can I meet with him again?

Igor: For him You mean my master Philemon do you not?

Austin: Yes, I would like to speak with him.

Igor: Sadly I have yet been able to open the newly made door behind me. You seem to be the only one capable of opening it. you are welcomed to enter as you please.

I nod and walk towards the door behind Igor. He said he had trouble opening it but I managed to open it with ease.

Igor: Interesting… Well, I wish you luck.

A pained look is shown on Igor's face. He wont admit it but he does miss his master. I wonder why Philemon is refusing him to enter. I walk in soon to see Philemon has dwindled down to a hovering white mask in a shadow body. He looks like Nyarlathotep did when I first saw him. It's a bit troubling to see the swapping of both positions.

Austin: Hello Philemon, I see now why you don't want Igor to see you.

Philemon: Welcome, and yes I don't have much time left I fear that the worst is bound to happen.

Austin: What do you mean?

Philemon: I have been using my own power to keep Nyarlathotep from regaining his original strength as well as keeping his body vulnerable. Once I disappear there will be nothing keeping him from regaining his strength and destroying the world.

Austin: No way… how much time do you have?

Philemon: Sadly not enough to last this month. I've decided to place my bet on you but it seems I may not even be able to survive to give you a chance of victory.

… … … I keep thinking to myself trying to figure out what it is I can do to win this… there has to be a way, but what… !?

Austin: Philemon what if you armament with me?

Philemon: What do you mean?

Austin: Like how Nyarlathotep has been gaining strength by giving masks to other shadows and people. What if you did the same except as my armament?

Philemon: I am a being that exists more like a shadow than a human but… since I'm not part of your collective unconsciousness I fear terrible things to happen to your body when it's done. You may become more shadow than human if it were to happen.

Austin: … That's fine. I'm not supposed to be from this world anyways so I can't really say I count as human either...

I think back to when the others told me not to do everything on my own anymore.

Austin: Actually… I would like to talk about this with the others as well. But, if you're not going to last long connect with me and use my power so that you can last for longer.

Philemon: But by doing so you wouldn't be able to fight in full strength.

Austin: That's fine. We need you alive to keep Nyarlathotep vulnerable anyways so come with me.

I raise my hand toward Philemon who looks contemplative.

Philemon: …very well. I hope for your victory.

Philemon's shadow body then constricts into the mask and hovers onto my hand.

Austin: Thank you, Philemon.

When I walk out into the velvet room the door behind me disappears completely. Igor looks at me in shock when he sees the mask that's in my hand.

Igor: So it has come to this… I would have gladly given myself for the sake of regaining his life why would he deny me that.

Austin: He did that because he wants you to live. He needs you to live for the future generations. Nyx and Nyarlathotep will not be the last god of destruction where persona users will need your help. You need to live so they can have a fighting chance.

Igor: … I understand. So where will you be going now?

Austin: To prepare. I plan to talk to the others and weigh my options.

I walk out soon after. once I'm out Philemon's mask shrinks into a keychain. I place him in my pocket as I send a text to everyone to meet me in the meeting room tomorrow when Aigis returns.

-Wednesday, December 30th

Aigis makes it back fully recovered later in the evening. Once there we all join up in the meeting room.

Junpei: So, can you tell us what it is that's on your mind?

I pull out Philemon's mask, it grows back to full size and then I place it on the table. The others look at me in surprise.

Arisato: What's this?

Mitsuru: This mask is different than the black mask. What is this for?

Austin: This is the mask of Philemon. Since I've been here he's been helping us in keeping the black mask vulnerable but with sacrifice to his own strength he has dwindled down to this state.

Mitsuru: But, would that mean that the Black Mask is now unbeatable?

Austin: not necessarily.

The others look at me confused.

Austin: There is a way to still fight him. It would require me to perform an armament with the mask. The issue is that when I do that there's a chance that I will no longer be completely human when set. My body will become part shadow once it happens.

The others look at me in shock

Yukari: You cant be serious. There must be another way.

Austin: There is no other way Yukari. I had so many chances to defeat the Black Mask but each time I was too weak to finish it. Now the only way to even hurt him is if I armament with Philemon.

Mitsuru: But why does it have to be you?

Austin: Because I'm the only one that can use armament. There's also the fact that I already have some of his power.

I summon the magic circle behind me.

Austin: Philemon had a rather special way of performing fusions. Originally he would have used parts of shadows to create a persona and implant it to ones soul. Now that he's gone I have gained part of his fusion ability. Since I've been using armament this whole time I've gotten better in using fusions as well so I should be the only one to be able to summon him in full strength.

Aigis: But would you be able to fuse him with another person as well.

We look at Aigis confused.

Aigis: If I were to ask if you could fuse the mask with me?

Austin: Although that is possible I have no practice so the chance of success would be lessened. There's also a chance of you getting killed in the process. To be honest I may already be part shadow due to my consistent use of armament anyways.

The others look at me confused.

Austin: My armament is a specialty type of fusion. I don't just wear my persona more as I fuse with them. I become a hybrid per se so in theory it should be okay for me to fuse with him.

Aigis: I can't accept this! The monster we're fighting was strong enough to not just damage but pierce through my exoskeleton and as a machine that's not an easy task. If it were to hit you in the same force you will die for certain.

Austin: Even then it's a risk we're going to have to take.

Aigis: But why do you have to be the one making the sacrifice. You'll die, for certain you'll die. At least let me be the one to hold him off. I can keep it away long enough so you can defeat Nyx and the other two. I'm just a machine so my death will not matter as much.

Austin: Aigis…

I look down and I see her hand shaking, she saw Nyarlathotep's power first hand and took it in full force.

Austin: Heh how can you still be calling yourself a machine while you're trembling like that?

Aigis: huh?

I lift Aigis's trembling hand.

Austin: You're scared aren't you? If you were a robot how could it be that you feel fear? You're just as human as any of us, and you have been for a while.

Aigis: I'm… Human…?

Shinji: You worry about all of us more than anyone else how could we ever think of you as anything else.

Junpei: you have your quirks but who doesn't. We'll never let you sacrifice yourself like that.

Yukari: We say that but what about Austin-san? That would mean that he's fighting the Black Mask on his own doesn't it?

The others look at me with a look of worry on their face.

Austin: I feel like I'll be able to take him if I fuse with Philemon. You see he's the other half of the Black Mask like persona are the other half of shadows. I may be the only one who could take him on when that happens.

Yukari: But with a price right?

Austin: Yeah but aren't all of us? You must remember that while this is happening all of you will most likely be fighting Nyx, Takaya, and Jin. We each have our own role to play but I promise to make it back to insure Arisato lives this time.

Arisato: … Thank you. With the strength of our bonds we'll be able to win this.

Austin: … yeah maybe with that I can make an armament strong enough to take all of them out.

The others look at me confused.

Austin: Arisato and I poses something called the Wild Card it's what allows us to summon multiple persona but it does have a second power. We gain strength through the bonds we make. The stronger our bonds the stronger our power gets.

Koromaru whines towards me.

Aigis: Koro-chan states that he would like you to take him on walks for now on.

Austin: Haha I'm not entirely certain that's what it means but sure let's test it out. Ok boy I'll take you everywhere.

Koromaru barks back at you with his tail wagging rapidly.

Fuuka: *giggle* it seems Koro-chan likes that idea.

We all share a laugh as we all begin to walk away. On the way out Arisato and I are stopped by Aigis.

Aigis: Am… Am I really human?

Austin: Well physically you're not but you do bear a soul and a heart strong enough to summon a persona.

Aigis: But… I don't know if I could be of help. Every time I even think about that black mask I can't stop myself from shaking.

Austin: It's ok to be scared I'm just as terrified as you are, but I cant let that stop me. I fear about how strong this monster is but what I fear even more is losing all the friends I've made and I use that to push me forward and keep fighting. If I stay frozen I lose and I can't have that.

Aigis: I lose if I stay frozen… ok. I must keep fighting as well. If I stay frozen it'll only mean more trouble for everyone and I cant let that happen!

Aigis has finally started to act more human… you hear a voice in your head. "I am thou, thou art I… thou has acquired a new bond. With the power of the Aeon arcana thou has open the path to a new chapter". With Aigis's new gained determination her persona has evolved to Athena.

Austin: Well, for now I think we should call it at that.

-Friday, January 1st

I walk down to see the guys hanging out in the living room. We all say Happy New Years as I begin to head out to the shrine.

Akihiko: So you'll be going to the shrine today?

Junpei: Why would you go? It's just going to be crowded.

Austin: Yes but I've never been to one of these before.

Shinji: I don't think I'll be going. I wanted to try a new recipe with Fuuka but she seems to be out somewhere. I wonder where she went.

Ken: Oh the girls have left to go to the shrine already.

Austin: Wait, they're already there? Oh man I'm not gonna miss seeing some pretty girls in Yukatas.

I run off and head out to the shrine.

Ken: H-Hey wait for me!

Ken starts following after me.

Austin: Quick tip Ken, don't listen to Junpei about Kimonos ok?

Ken: What do you mean?

The guys see me and start to head to the shrine as well. Once there we manage to see the girls in their yukatas. Junpei almost instantly gets the girls to feel uncomfortable so Chidori quickly drags him away with her face blushing red. We decide to walk around the shrine with everyone as I see Yukari and Arisato separately doing their own things out in the distance. Mitsuru and I look at each other and head towards Yukari first.

Austin: Hey Yukari something wrong?

Yukari: huh, oh hey Austin-san, Mitsuru-san.

Mitsuru: Is something the matter? You seem to be down.

Yukari: it's… nothing.

Austin: You wanted Arisato to compliment you in your kimono didn't you?

Yukari looks to me in shock then looks down with a red face as she nods.

Austin: Haha alright I'm on it.

I get up and walk towards Arisato.

Austin: Hey Arisato, you got a pretty girl over there waiting for ya to go compliment her. Go talk to her.

I point at a red faced Yukari who keeps passing glances towards Arisato.

Austin: Come on now man go get her.

I pat Arisato's back as I push him towards Yukari. Mitsuru walks towards my direction after whispering "good luck" to Arisato. They sit for a little bit and have a small chat so Mitsuru and I leave them be. We play a few games and we turn around to see Arisato and Yukari leaving from the shrine… We also see Junpei and Akihiko following after them. Mitsuru and I quickly run towards them.

Austin: Um, what are you two doing?

Junpei: Oh, we saw Arisato-kun and Yuka-tan walking this direction and we got a bit curio-

Austin: There's noting to see here I recommend you turn around. Right. Now.

I give them a stern look as Junpei flinches back with a face of shock.

Akihiko: Wha- What are you talkin-

Mitsuru: I recommend you turn around. It would be a waste to lose two allies so soon before the final fight.

Akihiko and Junpei look at us with fear on their eyes and a cold sweat dripping from their face. They take a cautious step back.

Akihiko: Y-Yeah there's nothing to see there I'm just going to go check what my luck is going to be for this year.

Junpei: Haha Yup totally nothing going on. Maybe I'll go ask Chidori if she wants to play some games.

Akihiko and Junpei quickly turn around and run back to the festival. Mitsuru and I let out a loud sigh.

Austin: Sooo, wanna see how things are going with those two?

Mitsuru: Most definitely.

We then exit the shrine following after Arisato and Yukari. We see them sitting on the steps of the dorm. Their faces turn red as Yukari holds Arisato's hand. They then look at each other and share a kiss. Mitsuru and I look at each other with a smile on our faces giving each other a silent high five for a job well done. There's nothing we need to do here so we return to the shrine and rejoin the other. Arisato and Yukari return not long after while holding each other's hand. Junpei quick to almost give a sly remark holds his tongue once he sees Mitsuru and I staring daggers at him. We continue enjoying ourselves until we return to the dorm.

Later at night I lay on my bed as I look at Philemon's mask.

Austin: It's almost time huh? When this is all over I wonder what's going to happen to me? Will I be returning to my world or will I have the chance to stay here?

I cant help comparing my life until now in my world to the one I've experienced here so far. I don't think I've ever had a year as exciting as this… I don't want it to end.