Chapter Seven: Monorail

"Gee what the hell is wrong with you?" Yukari snapped sticking her head right in my face. I groaned mentally to myself as she placed her hands upon her hips, trying to look intimidating at the very least and not succeeding. "Where were you doing playing video games all night?"

I gave her a flat look. "Tired, sleep now Yukari. Night..."

"DON'T YOU DARE GO TO SLEEP!" She roared loudly nearly having every head snapped towards her general direction.

"Hey, leave'im alone Yuka-tan." Thank you Junpei for jumping to my defense. "He had a rough night," walk over towards us with a tanned boy not following to far behind him.

The guy eyed me with amusement. "Seems to mean you need more calcium and protein."

"Or more sleep." Yukari growled at him. What was with you exactly Yukari? Shaking her head," Your Kazushi, from the Kendo team, right?" At his nod. "Could you pass a message to Yuko for me? The girl's Archery Team's practice has been cancelled today due to our supervisor being ill. So, the field is free if she wants to use it."

"Oh! Thanks, I'll be sure to tell her." The guy, Kazushi replied with a smile on his face. He gave us a wave before walking way outside the classroom.

Junpei grinned. "Kazu is pretty awesome dude to hang with, same with Yuko-san."

"Yeah, Yuko's pretty cool to hang out with." Yukari admitted with a nod. I yawned loudly leaning back into my chair, damn it I slept through class again. "What are you so happy about?" She eyed my goatee friend warily. "Your grinning to happily today."

"Is being happy a crime now, Takeba-san?" I asked scathingly giving out a bored look towards her direction. "Anyway whats up Junpei?"

"Well Akihiko-san is at the hospital getting a check up." He answered. "He called me earlier to bring him something," Grinning widely even more. "Yeeep. He knows who to count on." Frowning," Just hope Yuko and Kazu won't mind me skipping today."

"I'm sure that they won't mind," I stated grabbing my stuff while yawning again.

Yukari glanced between us. "So what'd he want you to bring?"

"The class roster for 2-E."

"Why did he want you to bring something like that?" I and Yukari asked unison, much to my horror. Craap, please don't let her get any ideas from this. "Well Archery's been cancelled, I don't have practice and Junpei's skipping. We all might as well go together, right?"

Junpei pouted. "W-wait a minute."

"...What?" Yukari's face screwed up. "Is there a problem?"

"W-well," Stumbling on words Junpei? "It was ME who asked!"

I raised an eyebrow. "Annnnd?"

"... I got nothing."

"Didn't think so."

The three of us ended up arriving straight at Tatsumi Memorial Hospital, except I felt my chest tighten and my body become considerably heavily all of a sudden. Didn't help that I found myself unable to breath, maybe the lack of sleep was finally taking it's toll on me? Nah. Anyway the three of us eventually made it straight towards Akihiko's room, where I found the source of discomfort. A tall guy, I mean REALLY tall guy was standing near the door eyeing it with unreadable look on his face. Brunette hair, wearing a dark red coat and a bean. I didn't even NEED to focus on him to sense or feel his persona; it was already visible and damn powerful. It was so powerful, I felt my self chocking on it's power, the guy's Arcana was similar to Akihiko's and Kurosawa's; Moon and Hierophant Arcana's respectively.

"Umm... I... Is this Akik-" Junpei began as the door slide open to revealing the silver haired boxer.

Akihiko looked surprised to see. "What are all of you guys doing here?" He sounded rather pleased at our presence nonetheless.

"We came to see you." I answered with a grin. "Everything alright?"

"It's just here for a check up." Akihiko reassured with a smile.

"...Is that it Aki?" Tall, Dark and intimidating asked.

Akihiko smiled. "Yeah, thanks."

"Tch." Sneering as he began to stalk away. "I don't have time for this shit." Walking past Junpei and Yukari, he paused turning his gaze over towards me. "You..."

I narrowed my eyes. "Yeah?"

"... Never mind." Dismissing me utterly as he disappeared down the stairs.

"W-who was that...?" Junpei asked a bit frightened from the experience.

Akihiko opened his mouth. "A friend from school... sorta."

"Bullshit." I interrupted glaring at him. "Who is he, really senpai?"

"..." Akihiko opened his mouth before I closing his mouth again. "... He's a Persona User. Use to be with Mitsuru and I, before leaving. Don't bother him, he has his reasons for leaving." Turning towards Junpei before I could ask another question. "You know how high the number of Apathy Syndrome cases have been increasing? he knows a few people who are suffering from it, so I was asking him about it."

Not the truth, but not a lie either. Well played Akihiko, well played.

"Hey Junpei, did you bring what I asked for?"

Junpei grinned at being acknowledge. "Of course Senpai," He handed over the roster straight to Akihiko.

"Sorry for the trouble," Akihiko responded as his eyes scanned over the list before nodding his head. "We'll then let's get going." Moving his arms all over the place.

"U-um, you shouldn't move your arm-" Protested our resident Magician.

Akihiko glared at him. "It's nothing," His tone was not unkind towards Junpei's concern. "I've wasted enough time already. I need to get back to my training." Alright that is ENOUGH.

"Sanada-senpai." My voice cold while switching straight to Apsaras in order to boost the cold effect. "If, for one second you think I'm bringing you along to Tartarus with an inured arm you are SADLY, mistaken." I paused as he opened his mouth to protest."I don't care what you think, senpai. Your health is much more important, power and strength aren't everything." I went over towards the door. "You will remain as mission control UNTIL I or Mitsuru says otherwise. In the mean time, I suggest you do some self reflecting."

I walked away closing the door.

Did I overstep my bounds? Probably. Akihiko needed to learn though, hopefully the seed I planted would take root.


I ended up heading to Bookworms, just to get away from the others. Upon entering the store I noticed that Bunkichi was going through things here and there looking for something. I raised an eyebrow before making my way towards the counter.

"Looking for something Bunkichi-san?"

The man looked up in surprised. "How'd you know I was looking for something? Are you psychic?"

I snorted. "I wish, Bunkichi-san. What are you looking for? Maybe I can help."

"I'm looking for my glasses, no not my glasses." He seemed to be struggling a bit," My wallet. I can't seem to find it."

"I'll help you look for it." I offered as I made my way to the counter and began to search for it.

We searched and searched, and came up with absolutely nothing. Damn it, how hard it can be to find a frickin-

"Konnichiwa, 'ello!" What is that sound? At the door a blonde haired boy, whom I'm pretty sure that I've seen before came over to his chest. He had the brightest blue eyes that I've ever seen. "I found zis on ze ground outside. Eez eet yours?"

Holy shit! Bunkichi's eyes went wide faster then you could blink. "Wow! This is it!" He held his wallet like it was the Holy Grail before pocketing it. "I've been looking for this wallet everywhere! It's not a golden wallet, but I'm still happy to have it back."

"And that's all that matters." I interjected.

"True, very true." Bunkichi agreed with a nod.

"Sumimasen, excuse..." Why are you repeating yourself? "Aren't you ze transfer student everyone eez talking about?"

I groaned. "Why me?" The blonde boy gave me an empathetic look.

"I go to zee same school Gekkoukan!" The boy informed with a smile on his face. "I came 'ere from France to study aboard. My name eez Andre Laurent Jean Geraux."

"Shizuka Yamato, nice to meet you Andrew." I gave him a nod. I could have switched the conversation over to french but that wouldn't be fair to Bunkichi. "Mind if I call you Andre?"

The boy beamed. "Eezat is fine. Everyone else... Zey call me Bebe."

"...Why?" Andre shrugged hopelessly. Better find out why. Bowing," Hajimemashite, it eez nice to meet you. I work in the Home Economics Room everyday after school! If you get bored, come and stay for a bit."

Home Economics? Might be useful somewhere down the line. "Sure, I might drop in every now and then."

Andre smiled. "I will be looking forward to it." Waving as he left the store. "Sayonara, goodbye!"

Mitsuko chosen to make an appearance. "...Well, he seemed like an interesting young man." Way to be positive.

Bunkichi's mind seems to be elsewhere,"I thought I put it in my wallet so I wouldn't lost it..." He grinned. "Ah! here it is!" Revealing a car key. "I knew it was in here!"

"Dear!" Mitsuko's voice strained as her face went paler then usual. What was going on? "Is that the key for..." My body tensed at the tone of her voice, she sounded frightened.

Bunkichi smiled at her. "Come dear, you know what it is. It's the key for our son's car." ... I don't think you should have brought that up Bunkichi-san. "Seeing Yamato-chan reminded me of how thing used to be." His voice came somewhat dream filled. "I haven't heard the roar of the engine in a long time. How do I look dear?" Pretending to be driving the car wearing a wild smile.

"Please don't!" Mitsuko pretty much shouted making me jump a few feet into the air. "Why must you get into a car?" Everything about her became frantic and filled with fear staring at her husband with worry like something bad was about to happen. Turning towards me. "Umm... I'm sorry for raising my voice."Did I scare you?"

"A little," I admitted.

Bunkichi looked a bit uncomfortable now. "Our son. Remember what I told you? How he passed away?" I nodded. "on the way home from work, he got into an accident. He was hit by a dump truck driver who was drunk on the job." His voice old and tired, my hands tightened into a fist. "Yamato-chan, please punch me... punch me for being so insensitive. With all my excitement, I forgot to consider how my wife might feel. I'm such... such a..." tears began to roll down his eyes.

"It's alright Bunkichi, people make mistakes." I comforted him, which felt a bit awkward. "Besides, I don't beat up old guys, just the bad ones."

crack... crack... crack...

'Thou shalt hast our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Hierophant Arcana'

Bunkichi seemed amused. "A Hero of Justice are we, Yamato-chan?"

"Damn straight!"


Saturday rolled around the next day, and I ended up heading to the Archery room to get some Pine Fresh for Theodore, dunno why he wants it though...A loud slammed echoed through the doorway. Right around the corner was Setsuna glaring angrily at Ekoda.

"How DARE YOU!" He spat viciously. "Club funds are NOT supposed to be used that way, especially without the consult of the Captain, the President and the Treasure! I will not let you get away with this Ekoda-san!" Wow... Setsuna looked pissed.

Ekoda smirked. "You must understand, as an educator I must consider all students and..." his smirk became twisted. "Possibilities."

"I agree, looking at different options is necessary. Nevertheless, what right do you have to dictate things the way you want them to be?" The archer snapped back at him. "We are a Team, NOT an One man army. I will be taking this to the principal, rest assured."

"As if we'll listen to a delinquent like you." Ekoda sneered at him before walking away. "I highly suggest that you leave everything, before accidents start happening."

"Is that a THREAT old man?"

Ekoda walked away.

"Bastard," I stated making my presence known, feeling a bit smug at that fact Setsuna had been taken a back to my appearance.

"Yamato-kun? How long have you..." Shaking his head. "The whole time right?"

Not entirely. "What was going on?"

"Ekoda." Setsuna's face said it all, the pure anger in his eyes and expression was enough. "That BASTARD used our Club funding for a single person, how despicable is that? We are a team, not lone soldiers. He doesn't seem to understand the concept of team work. It disgusts me!"

That was a problem. Ekoda was an ass, didn't think he was this big of an asshole though. "Who is he... 'sponsoring'?"

"What do you think? Izumi Touya."

Izumi Touya, what can I say about him? He's an asshole through and through. Bastard thinks he's gift to women everywhere, he's good looking I'll give him that but really that's all he is. His intelligence is about that of a metal pole and strong as an ox. A regular jock stereotype. Fun.

"Are you going to go through with it? Telling the Principal I mean." It wasn't a question.

Setsuna stared at me, turning away. "Probably not, with my track record." Laughing bitterly while shaking his head. A smile appeared on his face. "Thanks for listening to me ramble. I'm sure I can solve this problem."

"You mean WE will."

Crack... Crack... Crack...

'Thou shalt hast our blessing when thou choosest to create a Persona of the Devil Arcana'

Your welcome, Setsuna.

"Anyway, I'll talk to you later. I have work night." With that Setsuna left.

What does he do for work anyway?

Anyway, I ended up heading to Bookworms and ended up talking with Bunkichi and Mitsuko for a bit. Turns out, someone decided it would be a good idea to tear down that Permission tree their so fond of, bastards. I offered to go and do some dirty work to discover whose bright idea it was. Ended up ranking up, not once, but TWICE. Damn it, these two deserve better then the treatment that their getting from the school. Maybe Mitsuru could end up lending a hand? I dunno, I just want to do something for them.

"Damn it." As the Dark Hour set in, I wasn't in the mood for anything or do anything at all. I was more concerned about Mitsuko and Bunkichi, and Setsuna too. None of this seemed right and I couldn't help but feel utterly powerless to do anything at all. What GO was my power if I can't help my friends? I slammed my hands on the desk in frustration. "DAMN IT."

"Hi!" Oh look it's Jailbait, haven't seen you in awhile. "How've you been?"

I sighed gazing at him tiredly. "Frustrated."

"Oh?" He seemed sincerely curious. "How so?"

"These Social Links... I feel so GOD damn USELESS. It's like the only thing I can do is talk and listen to them," I growled glaring at them wall. "I should be able to do something for them, none of them deserve to go through this shit. I know I'm sound like a baby, and probably throwing thing out of proportion... shit. I'm hyperventilating aren't I?"

Jailbait shook his head. "No, not all. It's common to feel like that in these types of situations. Speaking of which I've noticed you've linked several Arcana's."

"Yeah Magician, Hierophant, Justice, Devil, and Emperor. Quite a few," I answered.

The kid nodded. "One week from now, there will be a Full Moon." Why can I hear the capitals? "Be careful, a new ordeal awaits you..." Shit. Well, thanks for telling me kid.

"Are the full moons THAT important?" I questioned gazing at him curiously,not trusting the sound of my own voice.

The boy's eyes glinted in the darkness. "Yes, on such days you will face your great challenges. You must prepare for the ordeal, but time is off the essence. I'm sure your aware of that, of course." Such faith me, thanks kid. "I'll come see you again when it's over. Goodbye for now."

"See ya!"

An ordeal, huh? Sounds like fun.


What can I say about the week that just rolled by? Junpei and I have been training far more then usual, and I ended up starting a link with a girl named Maiko and ended up ranking up with Hidetoshi; his view of of school uniforms against casual wear. Honestly, I don't really have a major opinion, either way does it really matter? Clothes are clothes. They get washed and re-worn. Started the Chariot Social Link with Junpei's friend Kazushi, ended up running into him after practice our conversation basically consisted of talking about kendo and thus the link began. Nothing to interesting there people move along-

My cellphone buzzed.

it was that song. I knew who was calling.

"What?"

A pause. "Here I thought you'd never talk to me again." You sound so smug, bitch. "Listen, about what happened-"

"I don't think you heard me the first time. I'm DONE with you. Don't call me again." ending the conversation before it could even begin as I stuffed my cellphone straight into my pocket. I just wanted to go to sleep, laying upon my bed waiting for sleep to claim me. How dare she... how DARE she acts like nothing happened between us!

The sound of the alarm began to play loudly. Annihilating whatever sleep I planned on getting this night. Fuck.

"Whats up?" I asked once I got out of bed, yawning loudly. "Is it another attack?"

Yukari gave me a look and shook her head," No. But Akihiko-senpai wants up upstairs ASAP."

"Alright, give me a second." I grabbed my gear and began to prep for whatever was needed, I have feeling this was going to be one hell of a night. Changing out of my school uniform into something more practical and loose before heading upstairs and joining the others. Upon entering the room I saw the serious and hardened faces of Akihiko and Mitsuru,"Whats going on?"

"Where is it?" Junpei asked angrily looking surprisingly serious. "I'll rip a new one," threatening lowly. Well, nice to see that he has his head in the game. Though Yukari doesn't look too amused, then again when is she ever amused or in a good mood?

Mitsuru eyed us soberly. "We've detected a Shadow outside of Tartarus," informing us gravely. The three of us stiffed unison at the horror what had been presented to us. "We don't know for sure, but we think it's another big have to defeat any of them we find, quickly as possible. Most people don't know about the Dark Hour exists. But, if half the city is destroyed, there will panic. That must be avoided at all costs."

"I agree," I cut in. "Though just HOW did we not notice the Shadow sooner?"

Mitsuru looked away briefly before regaining her composure. "In other words," Junpei stepped in to save Mitsuru's behind grinning like a total fool. See what I did there? Huh? Huh?... you all suck. "We just need to kick it's ass, right? Count me in!"

"We can't go in there guns blazing, Junpei. We have to consider the people that may be located where the Shadow is, one wrong move and we could end up with another graveyard right in the middle of the city. Except no explanation!" I growled sharply, seeing the boy pale instantly. While taking note of Mitsuru's and Akihiko's flinching. "Any where is the Shadow anyway?"

"Its on the Monorail," Akihiko answered quickly. "Come on we-"

Mitsuru glared at him. "Akihiko, you stay here and wait for the chairman.

"Wha-!" Methinks that the boxer isn't happy about that. "Are you KIDDING? I'm going-"

"You still need to recover. You'll just be a hinderance," She added the second part. Ouch Mitsuru, low blow.

Akihiko returned the glare. "What!"

"They'll fare better then you in your current state." Mitsuru continued calmly. "Have faith in them Akihiko, they're ready." Her words were soft and firm believing in them. Wow... well, my confidence just got a boost. Unfortunately Akihiko didn't look to pleased about it.

"... Damn it..."

I rubbed my forehead. Was he THIS obsessed with fighting to nearly getting all of us killed? "Relax Senpai, I'll have us covered." Thanks Junpei, I'm sure that will elevate his fears.

"I guess I have no choice..." His words trailed off tiredly giving me a pointed look. "Yamato, you're in charge."

... Of COURSE I am. Great. Well, I work under pressure better anyway.

"Alright, I won't let you down. Guys lets move out." I decided to take charge as I went over towards the door. "Where are we going to meet up Senpai?"

Mitsuru looked at me in surprise, before smiling. "At Iwatodai Station, I will join you three in a few. Now go!"


"Where is she?"

Yukari was pacing around while carrying her bow with a quiver filled with arrows, I could tell though she was worried about Mitsuru.

"She'll be here soon." Junpei reassured her like a child, cleaning his blade carefully his eyes on the steel. Just like Tartarus the entire place looked like it had just been through a bloodbath of battle, the stains and smell could be seen and reached from miles around.

Urgh, it made me sick.

"There's a Full Moon tonight," Yukari mentioned observing the sky before shivering violent. "But, it looks even creepier during the Dark Hour..." She shivered against holding her body tight.

I stood from the stairs looking at her. "Cold?"

"... No. Just... frightened out, I guess." She admitted trying to avoid looking at the moon. "I don't know why, but it always felt off to me. Maybe I'm just imagining things!" She giggled, probably thinking it was cute or something. Junpei instantly jumped up, as Yukari whipped her head towards him. "What? What is it?"

Junpei's eyes were etched upon the other direction. "... What... the?"

Holy shit.

It was Mitsuru. Riding a motorcycle. Not just any regular motorcycle, pure white with different gadgets that I have absolutely no idea what the hell they do but it STILL looks cool. Damn it... I want one now.

"Sorry to keep you waiting." She apologized as she removed herself from the bike.

Yukari is utterly stunned by the awesomeness of the bike. "A Motorcycle...?" Was that a bit of jealous in there I hear Yukari? Shame on you.

"Listen carefully." Ignoring Yukari completely, welcome aboard the Anti-Yukari Group Mitsuru. Pleasure to have you with us. "Tonight I will be providing support from. Everything else is the same. The Shadow is currently located in the monorail, not far from the station. To get there, you'll have to walk on the tracks."

What?

"B-But isn't that dangerous?" Junpei protested, see? At least someone here has common sense.

Mitsuru turned towards him. "Don't worry, no electronic equipment is operable during the Dark Hour, including the monorails." Except your bike, it's special.

"But, your bike..."

"It's special." Mitsuru defended with a smug smile.

See? Told you so.

"Now if circumstances change, I'll notify you immediately." Good, that way we can improvise need be. "Let's get started."

That's my cure. "Alright, let's roll out!"

The three of us managed to move along the tracks, observing the situation down below and around us. So far, there seemed to be no Shadow's out and about, makes me wonder what exactly what the three of us have gotten in into. Oh well, eventually we found the monorail sitting there.

"This is it... right?" Yukari asked hesitantly.

No Yukari, it is. In fact, that isn't a monorail it's a metal bunny. Of COURSE it's the monorail we're looking for!

'Can you all hear me?' Mitsuru's voice rang through our ears nearly making me cringe.

"Yes, we can hear you clearly." Yukari confirmed with a nod standing at an opening. "But, I don't see anything out of the ordinary."

Mitsuru seemed to disagree. "The readings definitely indicate coming from that monorail." We hope anyway, just wanted to add that. "Proceed with caution, and stay together."

"Got it."

Junpei grinned as the three of us began to climb up the stairs. "Hehehe... my Persona's just beggin' to be used!"

"Remember what we talked about Junpei," I chided harshly making him flinch. I felt a knife stab me in the stomach. Don't get me wrong I have faith in him however, this is different. We are not in Tartarus, we're ON a monorail with potential casualties, we HAVE to take this as seriously as possible.

"Let's head on in then!" Yukari declared being the first one on the stairs, before glaring at the two of us. "Don't. Look. UP."

Please, who would want to? I heard Junpei snort underneath me.

As we made our way into a compartment cart, a lone coffin stood there lonely. Junpei gave it a sympathetic gaze. "This poor stiff must be a passenger."

I shrugged, "He'll be find provided we... FUCK!"

The doors slammed shut.

"What's wrong? Did something happen?"

I snarled. "We're trapped like mice in here. Should've guessed, it was way too easy to get in here."

"It must be the Shadow... it knows your there." Mitsuru realized breathlessly. "Be ready for anything! Proceed with extr-"

She was caught as shattering glass and sounds rumbled through the compartment nearly making it tip over, thankfully I was keeping my grip on one of the bars while Junpei landed comfortably on a seat and Yukari had the unfortunately luck of landing straight on her behind.

"What was that?" Junpei shrieked his eyes glancing everywhere.

I groaned, gripping my sword. "C'mon on. None of us can linger here anymore, Move out!" I dashed forward with Yukari and Junpei following close behind me as we went through the door and entered another compartment. No Shadows were in sight which unnerved me a greatly. "What compartment are in?"

"Ummmm... the 10th/11th one," Yukari responded quickly checking mentally pressing up on the right side of the next door and Junpei on the left. I slowly opened the door expecting to be attack, however once again absolutely no Shadows appeared. "No Shadows?"

Junpei frowned. "That's weird."

"... Something's not right." I brought up eyeing the sides of the compartment.

Yukari's eyes shifted nervously. "It's so quiet, it's creepy...AHH!"

A Shadow appeared in front of her making Yukari jump back in surprise, staring at it. The Shadow in question was a strange ghoul like thing with a book floating in cage located or, rather was the head of the Shadow it's self. It stared at us for several moments before hightailing it towards the other direction.

"... Okaaay then and the point of that was...?"

Yukari shrugged off the bewildered look. "Who cares? THAT thing is going to pay!" Before Junpei or I could even stop her, she ran forward leaving the two of us behind.

"Damn it Yukari,"I growled. "You're going to get yourself killed!"

"Or us." Junpei added sagely.

I nodded sharply, my patience reaching it's limit for the night. "Or. Us. C'mon, let's go after her like we always do."

'Watch out! Behind you!' Mitsuru warned us.

Too late Mitsuru, the two Shadows that attacked us resembled the one that Yukari had gone after. It was when I realized that they were trying to separate us! I slide backwards with my sword in my hand while Junpei stood barely an inch in front of me. "Damn it, just what we needed. More minions, think we can take Junpei?"

The cap wearing teen grinned sadistically. "Can we take them? Dude, can I use fire or what?" Good point. "Let's do it!" He charged forward first with myself going straight after him each of us giving enough space in order to unleash our attack. I sharply tilted my body on axis whirling my blade around as it tore right through the Shadow watching as the blood went slinging through the air and across the very windows, the pointed end stopping once finally tearing through the skin. Watching from the edges of my eye as the Shadow began to dissolve entirely.

Junpei simply went for the stomach of the Shadow and slammed it right against the side with his elbow, changed the direction of the sword and sliced it's head off. The windows broke and dripped on to the ground making me cringe. I sincerely hopped that the condition of the windows wasn't on our list of priorities.

'Hurry!' Mitsuru's voice rang in our ears again. 'I'm worried about Takeba!'

Your the only one Mitsuru, your the ONLY one.

"How far has she gotten?" Junpei asked ignoring the blood dripping on his shoes.

'From what I can tell she's a few carts ahead.' Mitsuru answered.

"Thanks Mitsuru. Let's go and save her ass Junpei,"I growled through my teeth as another three Shadows revealed themselves, another two of the same Shadows that just ambushed us while the third resembled a cross only with a scale attached the back of it; one side had blue and the other had red. "Get out my my way you BASTARDS!" My wrist snapped quickly as I quickly killed one of the Shadows before shooting up my leg and slamming another Shadow right into the railing of the monorail having the blood soak down the pole. "Bitch."

"Where do you think YOUR going?" Junpei towered over the strange cross-scale Shadow, whom seemed to tried and get away. The evil gleam in his eyes shined brightly. "Runnin' away are ya? I don't think so, nighty-night!" He jammed his sword straight into the Shadow twisting it until it dissolved into nothingness. However, his pants were drenched in blood much like my clothes. "Urgh, another pair of pants ruined."

I shrugged. "Look on the bright side, it's my turn to do laundry." I went forward through the next door entering the 7th/6th compartments with Junpei. "She's not here either. She's going to owe us if we live through this."

"Well if we die we could always haunt her in the afterlife." Junpei said rather optimistically.

I raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you scared?"

"Ugh, yeah?" His sarcastic tone came through. "Though, at the moment I need someway of keeping us somewhat sane while Yuka-tan is doing godknowswhat with the Shadow." I wrinkled my nose as he cracked a huge grin while we stalked through the cart before he frowned. "No Shadows either, and no sounds."

"And that blast too is making me worried. What they're are people awake on here?" I questioned as we quickly raced through the compartment. If there WERE people on the monorail? I mean whose to say that the Shadows weren't using this Monorail as a feeding ground? or worse.

Junpei bite his lip. "Let's hope not man, I dunno about you but wouldn't Akihiko-senpai or Mitsuru-senpai would have known?"

"... Maybe, I dunno." I admitted going through another door. And there was Yukari standing there fighting off several Shadow's at once. "There she is." I leaped forward very annoyed and IRRITATED with her attitude as I ended up saving her behind by slashing a Shadow in half. She looked up at me in surprise before I glared at her. "We're talking later Yukari." My voice cold as ice as Junpei helped her up. An arrow shot past me destroying the cross-scale Shadow while the small pink hand-like Shadow resembling a miniature Dancing Hand from the 10th Floor of Tartarus was standing. "Enough of this." I didn't slash it. No, I was too annoyed. I merely STEPPED on it.

"D-dude..." Junpei seemed a bit taken back.

"Learned your lesson Yukari?" I asked not even acknowledging her presence.

She glared, a blush formed. "I was fine, thanks." Getting up and looking around as she began to wobble. "Wha-?" The monorail began to move.

'Be careful you three!' Mitsuru cried. A little late on that on Mitsuru!

"Wh-whoa what the? W-Why're we... moving?" Junpei exclaimed shocked at the suddenly development as I was.

'It seems that the monorail is under the enemy's control,' No shit Mitsuru, even I could have figured that one out.

Yukari wasn't amused. "Whaddya mean 'it seems'?' Seriously Yukari, you have a brain. Please use it. The monorail began to move at an alarming rate with the three of us on it and only Junpei had the balls to say the one thing we all thought.

"Uh... This doesn't look god." Thanks Junpei, next up is sports.

Mitsuru's voice snapped us back to reality. 'If we can't stop that thing, it'll crash into another train!' Yukari screamed in horror, I would like to say I was calm. However that would be lying. I was honestly to god shitting brick right about now. 'Calm down and listen.'

We're listening, lay it on us Mitsuru.

'I sense a strong presence in the front car.' Obvious. 'That must be the one we're after.' Also obvious. 'You'll have to defeat it to stop the train!'

Just as those words left her mouth, Shadows appeared before us. God damn it Mitsuru...

"What kinda messed up ride is this?" Junpei cried with frustration glaring at the two medium sized Dancing Hands and a strange table that wore a mask with weapons hovering just above it. I always knew furniture was evil.

"Mitsuru analyze the enemy!" I managed to dodge an attack from one of the Shadows while Yukari aimed her bow letting loose another arrow, piercing one of the Dancing Hands against the door. Junpei jumped over the table-like Shadow and slashed the other Dancing Shadow, letting it bleed to the floor.

'It's weakness is FIRE!' Mitsuru shouted.

"JUNPEI!"

"I'M ON IT!" He cried back taking out his evoker and pointing to his head.

"ORPHEUS!"

"HERMES!"

"BLAZE BURN BROTHERS!"

Yeaaah, lame name I know. But look at the pretty fiery it makes! Yes I realize how deranged I sound, bite me.

'We're short on time, let's proceed!'

No need to tell us twice!

'We don't have much time!' Mitsuru urged us. 'Run!'

No need to tell us that! "HURRY!" I snapped at them as I raced through the compartment, ignoring Yukari's cries and Junpei's gawking. Upon entering the next compartment, my entire body frozen as my blade fell straight onto the ground as my own eyes bugged out completely. "...Shit..."

The kid...

Harry...

Shit. Holy fucking shit.

There he was sitting there, his entire face covered his blood holding the broken and mangled body of a blonde horse like woman his arms, cradling it closely to his chest. I could practically feel the horror and anxiety that was rolling off of him just by looking at the poor kid. I couldn't image what he was going through right now, instead I knew I had to get him out of where and somewhere safe. The Shadows already began to make advancements towards him as still remained still like a pole.

"Fuck!" I cursed loudly picked up my sword and stared running towards the kid. Shit couldn't see them coming? "KID!"

The boy's eyes snapped up before narrowing, his body consumed by blue flames. The Shadows were knocked back by the winds that began to circle around boy, his eyes flashing until a image appeared above causing my jaw to drop then and there.

"A... Persona?"

"He-what the hell?" Thanks Junpei for basically expressing my thoughts on this matter.

"Oh my!" You two, Yukari.

A figure similar to that of the more humanoid Personas; ex: Hermes, appeared hovering above the kid like a guardian, he was wearing black tonic with belts over his chest while wearing a helmet over his face and had two shoes with wings on them. In one hand was a shield that resembled a mirror and the other was a sword.

'Thou art I.. and I art thou... I am Perseus, Warrior of the Heavens and Searcher of truth! Together we will walk the path of justice!' The Persona's voice boomed manly-like gazing down at the Shadow before waving it's hand. The first Shadow was slashed in half while another one exploded.

That's right. You heard me, EXPLODED.

The blue energy that surrounded the kid began to die as the Perseus vanished, leaving the kid utterly defenseless.

"What are we standing here for?" I shouted as Junpei and Yukari snapped out of it. I began to stumble a bit as I made my way over to the kid," Damn it we're speeding up!"

Harry blinked, utterly out of it. "W-wha-?"

"You okay, kid?" Junpei asked as he quickly made work out of that miniature little cupid, while Yukari took care of the small white glove. As the last of the Shadows in the compartment were dealt with Junpei held the younger boy up whom stumbled. The after effects of awakening a Persona started to kick in.

"I feel like my head is splitting open..." Harry admitted softly before his gaze landed upon the woman with blonde hair. "Aunt Petunia!"

I closed my eyes briefly as Junpei looked away and Yukari struggled not to cry. "... I'm sorry..."

"..." Harry held the body close before gently laying it on to the ground, staring at it distantly. "..."

I looked over towards the front cart. "That must be where the Puppeteer is, I'll go ahead. Yukari stay here and keep an eye on Harry, alright?"

The girl stood up. "Are you crazy? It's much safer if the four of us go together! We have a better chance of killing the Shadow and protecting one another if we stick together, Yamato!" The numbers were in our favor at the same time, Harry was a liability in battle at the moment.

"I..." The boy wheezed out struggling to breath and keep awake, his eyes blazing with determination. "Can fight!"

"..." This goes against my better judgment," Alright." I'm going to be kicking myself for this I just know it. "We can't stay here, let's go." I strode forward shortly followed by my three companions, Junpei supporting the younger boy as we made our to the front compartment.

A woman, a very GIANT woman was sitting there wearing a blue skirt over her nether regions. One part of her body was completely white and the other part black, over her face was a purple mask with the roman numeral for 'III'. By that logic she was the Priestess. Her hair was the opposite color of the skin that they were on, which I found weird though now REALLY wasn't the time to count on it. I gritted my teeth standing in front of the other three while blocking out Junpei's and Mitsuru's voice.

"Let's kill it."

And that's all we needed to do.

"MITSURU SCAN THE ENEMY! YUKARI TAKE ON HEALING AND JUNPE..." My voice trailed off as my voice hardened. "Help me KILL this thing."

Junpei glared at the Boss. "With pleasure." Taking out his evoker he pointed it straight towards his head. "HERMES!" The Persona appeared above him and unleashed fiery rage upon the Priestess whom simply shrugged off the attack and whacked him to the side, sending Junpei slamming against the wall.

"J-JUNPEI!" Yukari cried out pulling out her Evoker. "IO!"

The goatee teen groaned, feeling the bathing of energy on him. "T... Thanks Yuka-Tan."

"My turn," I declared snapping out my evoker while dodging an attack only to use Orpheus to unleash some Bashing attack. The Shadow snarled angrily at my assault not appreciating what I personally think of it's idea of 'fun' only to see it wave her hands making two smaller Shadow's appear.

'Reinforcements, how annoying!' Mitsuru commented with irritation. Tell me about it.

Yukari quickly snapped out an arrow, piercing through of the Shadows and attaching it into the thin of the Priestess, causing it to lash out manically. "JUNPEI HURRY!"

"I'm on it!" Junpei roared charging past the Priestess' line of defense before leaping up much like Beowulf and SLAMMING his sword right through the chest of the Shadow. Dragging the Shadow down as blood began to gush out of it like fountain.

I swung my sword wildly, cutting off the hands of the Shadow taking satisfaction as they dissolved. The lone Shadow tried to attack me only for me to rebounded it using my sword, I then switched my Persona and used Pixie, whom i retrieved awhile ago.

"RAKUNDA!"

A sphere of purple encased the Shadow as it shook violently before it went right through the Priestess turning into a purple solid orb that levitated in the air. I glanced at Yukari, whom nodded in response as we both respectively summoned Angel and Io.

"GARU!"

The green winds formed beneath the Shadow sending it into the air, before landing harshly upon the ground. The Priestess, on the other hand seemed relentless as it began to spam magic towards the two of us. I felt the cold ice wash over me. I shivered violently struggling to hold on to my sword.

"D... Damn it..." I hissed out still freezing from the attack. "Why won't it just DIE already?"

Yukari began to breath heavily. "Y-yeah, it's like it's determined to stay alive!"

'THREE MINUTES LEFT!'

Junpei leaped back over towards us after cutting through the Priestess, "Got any ideas, man?"

"... Yeah. One." I gave the two of them a hard look. "How do you feel like an Epic Punch?"

Junpei stared at me for several moments as did Yukari.

"Fuck. Yes."

I smirked at him. "Let's do it." I threw my attention at the Priestess. "Sorry, but your number is up!" Junpei and I dashed forward with Yukari whipping out her Evoker gazing behind us ready for action, as I let loose my sword cutting across it's wounded areas making it wail and vibrate viciously. Trying in vain to contain the blood it was loosing. "NOW JUNPEI!"

My Magician Arcana friend jumped on the Priestess legs just as Yukari unleashed a Garu spell upon the Shadow, allowing him to hover in the air for several moments. Junpei glared pulling back his arm and rolling up his sleeve before sending a powerful punch at the Priestess. Shattering it's mask into tiny pieces. Landing safely on the ground, Junpei grinned despite being covered in Shadow blood.

"How do you like THEM apples, bitch?"

I sighed. "That makes it what? Shadows-0 and us-Limited?"

"Pretty much!" Junpei stated walking over to my side with a grin. He blinked," Whats the matter kid?"

Harry blinked. Tiredly. "I... was useless the entire time," smiling forcefully. "I...it feels strange," He laughed a bit as his eyes rolled to the back of his head, collapsing. To be honest, I was surprised he was even able to withstand being able to move after awakening his Persona. Kid's got strength and balls. I'll give him that.

"Did we make it in time?" Yukari asked looking around, before sweating quickly. "We're going to fast!" Instantly gaining out attention, the kid being carried on my back. "We have to put on the brakes or else...!"

Mitsuru's voice cut in. 'What are you waiting for! There's a train up ahead!'

"JUNPEI DO SOMETHING!"

He snapped towards me. "M-me? B-But I?"

"I have faith in you." I gave him a firm look. "Now go!"

Junpei stated at me for several moments before rushing a head and grabbing on to something, I closed my eyes tightly as a white light blinded me. Yukari's screaming piercing my ears and mind...


'Is everybody alright?' Mitsuru asked as I opened my eyes and noticing that we're all still alive.

Junpei's eyes opened. "D... Did we stop?" His voice filled with disbelieving and awe, realizing that we were all still alive.

"I... I think so..." Yukari murmured bewildered as a smile appeared, shakily. Her eyes danced with relief as a sigh escape her lips before turning her attention as Junpei, smiling briefly before turning away. Wait... was she?... Nah. Couldn't be. Shaking out of it, "Uh... ye-yeah, we're okay." A laugh escaped her lips. "M-my knees are shaking." Don't worry so are mine Yukari, so are mine.

"D-dude..." Junpei began his body also shaking. "I'm like drenched in sweat," fear does that too ya."How are you and the kid holding up?"

I groaned. "Alive."

"W-well... that's a good sign then!" Junpei laughed with a grin on his face.

'I'm so glad you're safe!' Awww I knew you loved us Mitsuru! 'I'm sorry I couldn't do more on my end. I don't detect anymore Shadows, you guys did a great job. So come on home...'

"...Mitsuru-senpai?" I glanced at the kid.

'Whats wrong?' Her voice curious and grave.

I paused. "I think... we have a memorial we need to prepare for."

Mitsuru didn't bother asking question that night, in fact she and Akihiko had been surprised at us discovering another Persona-user. When I questioned Mitsuru about him and his now deceased aunt, she had responded that their presence on the monorail never came to her attention at all. I didn't know what the think of that and the mere thought of her unable to sense a potential Persona-user was a bit unsettling, even though I was fully aware of the fact she was unable to sense awakened Persona users; more research was needed.

Anyway sleep.


Ring... Ring...

Urgh... I groaned groggily as I got up from my bed glancing irritably towards my phone. Yawning loudly as I answered it. "Hello?"

"Hello? This is Elizabeth." How did you get my number? "I'm calling to inform you of a sudden change in Tartarus." A change in Tartarus? "I believe a path that was blocked is now opened." How do you KNOW that? "I thought you would like to know." Oh, thanks Elizabeth. "... I wish you a safe journey." Thanks!

She hung up. Still...

HOW does she KNOW my number?

Whatever, I don't really want to know how she got it. I got my skinny ass out of bed before having a quick hot shower and then changed into some clothes, yesterday really took a lot out of me. Everyone else, except Akihiko, seemed to be in the same mood as I was.

"Where you guys going?" I asked as I made my way into the lounge, Mitsuru and Akihiko both looked ready to step out for the night. I blinked lazily as I passed by the kitchen.

Mitsuru waved her hand. "We're going to the hospital to check on our new member." Your recruiting a pre-teen? Then again... "Would you like to join us Shizuka, he isn't a friend of yours. Is he not?" Her eyebrow raised elegantly as if she was trying to provoke me.

"Yep." Not going to let her get a rise outta me. "You wouldn't mind if I tagged along?"

Akihiko smiled. "Sure, the more the merrier."

"Awesome. Let's move."

Once again we are back at Tatsumi Memorial Hospital, you know have I EVER mentioned how much I HATE hospitals? Dunno why, but I do. Though the white makes me remember this strange blonde haired girl and...wait! No! It's not what you're thinking! Really!

WHAM!

Owww... now look what you made me do!

"S-sorry about that!" I apologized as Akihiko struggled not to snort while trying to look a bit horrified, on the other hand Mitsuru's lips twitched with amusement. I scampered up off the floor as I stared at the young girl that laid upon the floor helplessly. "You alright?"

"Yes, I'm fine. Thank you." She responded with a huge smile on her face, dusting her clothes off.

I smiled. "Thats good. Oh! I'm Shizuka Yamato, a second year at Gekkoukan High."

"Sanada Akihiko, nice to meet you." The boxer introduced himself while sending a side-smirk towards my direction. The bastard, being smug about this.

Mitsuru nodded. "Kirijo Mitsuru. Are you certain that you're alright?"

"Yes, I am. But thank you for asking" She bowed politely. Her smile seemed a bit force and eyes held a bit of sadness.

"What's your name?"

The girl's eyes widened before smiling. "I'm Hasegawa Saori. Nice to meet you."


Chapter Seven-End.

Thus comes an end to the Priestess Shadow Boss, I hoped all of you enjoyed this chapter. It was a BITCH to write, since I wasn't really sure what of to do plus I ended up taking a lot of things out of the chapter as well since I can save it for the next one. I've also been thinking: Should I move this to the MegaTen/HP crossover section, the Persona/HP crossover section or leave it in the Persona section?

MagnusRagnar: Well, original this fic was actually just a pure HP/P3 until I read SamJazz's "FES", DropletofSour's "Double Lustani Style" and your "A Fool name Fortune" the fic itself evolved and changed into something far better then what it use to be. The original design has changed a lot due to that, though many key elements have remained. So I personally hope that you will enjoy the rest of the fic.

Anyway you know the drill people, Read and Review!