AN: If you read chapter 12 and it said "Leadership" and not "Shinjiro Aragaki Part I" please reread it, if you don't you're missing about 6 days.
Chapter 13: Shinjiro Aragaki Part II
9/18/09
On my way to class I hear a rumor that the film festival is having a one day special on the 23rd.
After School…
I look outside and cringe. That damn typhoon is going to hit. I start heading back to the dorm…I have the worst damn luck! Half way there the damn thing hits! By the time I reach the dorm I look like a drowned cat! My socks are soaked and I feel the nasty squishy water going in between my toes. I shiver. I'm so cold.
"You weren't quick enough, huh?" Damn it Junpei. All nice and dry and warm. I shiver again. It seems I'm the only one who got caught to make it worse. Everyone is already in the lounge.
"According to the news, a typhoon just hit." Ah Fuuka. You and your never failing ability to state the goddamn obvious. "Supposedly, it's the biggest one on record. It's moving slowly, too, so it'll be around for a while…"
"Yeah, thanks to that, the school festival got canned. …Well, setting all that stuff up is a pain, so I don't mind." I shiver some more and rub my arms the only thing I manage to do is drip more water on the floor. "But, it sucks that we'll be stuck indoors. …So, how are you gonna spend your break?"
"What break?"
"Do you love school or something? Most students started looking forward to winter break a month ago…" well excuse me for not knowing about it. "What about you, Fuuka?"
"Me? The only thing I plan to do is go to the movies…"
"Ooh, a movie? Is it a date…?"
"It-It's not like that. I'm going with Natsuki-chan. She absolutely loves movies. But with this typhoon, I don't know if we'll be able to go."
"How 'bout you, Yuka-tan? Will ya still have practice?"
"…I doubt it. The archery range is outside, so it's most likely canceled until the storm blows over."
"Same here. This stupid typhoon is gonna mess up my training." Akihiko sighs.
"What about you, Senpai?" Junpei turns to Mitsuru.
"…I haven't decided. Besides, what business is it of yours, Iori." Ouch.
"Me?" and as usual Junpei's completely immune. "Well, I'd be happy to tell you about my plans…"
"You will be visiting Chidori no?"
"Don't call her that!"
Aeon just arches a brow. "I am correct am I not? Despite her condition being stable, she will not be released."
Junpei glares at Aeon for a good moment before nodding. "Yeah. I'm going to go see her." His eyes flash with anger in Aeon's direction again before he ends up smiling, probably thinking about Chidori. "She wants me to come! …not to brag or anything." Ugh. "I, um…just thought I should check up on her…ya know, with the storm and all."
"Is that so." Yukari adds dryly.
"…What's up with him?" Akihiko turns to me.
"I don't know." I answer.
"Oh, yeah! Ken-kun. What are you going to do during the break?" Fuuka turns to Ken.
"Oh, nothing in particular…"
"Come on, you have to be doing something." …Junpei…
"Well, I'll probably go visit the shrine."
"Dude, you're a kid, not an old man."
"But, that's where I always go. I guess you could say I made a vow…" he looks down at that. …Shinjiro and Akihiko both give him uncomfortable looks at that. What the hell happened between them? "Anyway, I'm going back to my room. I have a lot of homework to do."
"Oh, okay. Call me if you get stuck." With that Ken goes back to his room.
With that I sneeze.
"Minako…you should get changed. You're going to get sick in those wet clothes." Akihiko looks me over in concern and I nod heading to my bedroom. I don't even manage to make it out of my clothes before I throw myself in my bed in exhaustion.
Velvet Room…
Hm? What am I doing here of all places?
"I have been waiting for you." Igor smiles at me. …why not just have Theo call me then? "I last summoned you in your dreams quite some time ago." …and left me damn comatose for nearly 10 days! "Several seasons have come and gone since I first offered my assistance…Now, then…your special power-Persona…have you been using it wisely?"
"Uh…"
"To be perfectly honest, I sense a great catastrophe in your future." …Fantastic. I could always do with a few catastrophes. "But, it would be a pity to lose one such as yourself unnecessarily…therefore, please allow me to provide you with a new form of assistance. Henceforth, you shall be able to fuse four or more Personas." wait what? "I am certain that this will be of great benefit to you. But now, you must be tired. Please, rest easy…" I sweat if 10 days have passed again I'm gonna be pissed. "Until we meet again…farewell." I feel myself fall into darkness
9/21/09
Ugh. When I wake up I'm not in the hospital. Huh…I'm in my pajamas though…and there's a thick blanket around me. There's a fresh thermometer on the table. Did someone tend to me while I was sick? I feel pretty good. I open my door and there's Aeon. He was sitting outside my door?
"Aeon?" He looks up.
"Minako…how are you feeling?" He stands and touches my forehead his eyes roam over my face. "Your temperature seems to be normal, your breathing is neither labored nor accelerated, your heartbeat seems to be back to normal as well…"
"I'm fine Aeon."
"That…is a relief. I…was concerned about you." he speaks awkwardly.
"I'm fine now." So he was the one who took care of me? "Do you know what day it is?"
"It is September 21st and it is a Monday."
"Thanks Aeon." he nods and with that I headed outside as I walk past Shinjiro he looks over me. "Caught a little cold, huh…Glad to see you're feeling better."
"Thanks." he turns back to looking out the window and I awkwardly leave. I'll go see Maiko today
Naganaki Shrine…
The two of play for a while before Maiko looks up at me.
"We've played enough so that you won't forget about me right? Mom and I are moving soon…an' Dad said, I'll always be his daughter…Even though we're far away, we're still family. So, I don't need to be sad. W're gonna be far apart too…but you and me are family. I mean, not really, but you're my sister, okay? Forever and ever."
"Yeah. The two of us are sisters, forever and ever Maiko."
She nods. "Take care."
"You try not to catch anything either…" huh. She's crying now. "Keep this, okay? I….made it just for you." she gives me a small ring made with white beads. "It's just like mine." she holds up her own hand and there is an identical bead ring. "Whenever I want to see you, I'll look at this…Please don't throw it away…"
"I'll wear it always Maiko."
She beams at that. "I will too!"
Thou art I…
And I am thou…
Thou hast established a genuine bond…
The innermost power of the Hanged Man Arcana hath been set free
We bestow upon thee the ability to create Attis, the ultimate form of the Hanged Man Arcana…
…That warmth again. It's a very nice feeling like a small song in my heart.
"When I get big, I'll come see you…I'll save my money and buy an airplane ticket."
"I'll be waiting."
She smiles brightly at that but there are tears in her eyes. "Until the…bye-bye!" she runs away quickly. With that I head for Wakatusu…I decide to try their "Prodigy Platter"…eerily enough I do feel a bit smarter after I finish it.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Hello!" Ken greets me cheerfully when I walk in. "Are you feeling better? You were in your room a long time."
Aw…that's sweet. "I'm fine Ken." Koromaru trots up to me tail wagging so I decide to take him out for a walk. I could use the exercise.
Right outside Naganaki Shrine…
Koromaru trots by my side he's happy but not running around like he usually does. I guess he's a bit more relaxed today. He tilts his head to the side in a way that reminds me starkly of Aeon when he's confused.
"Hm? What's wrong Koromaru?" He's looking straight ahead at some woman. Oh…isn't she the one who told us about Koromaru's owner?
"My, this dog…So this dog's still here. Oh, haven't you heard?" I have actually but you're talking so fast it doesn't matter- "The priest here used to take care of this dog…" she goes ahead and repeats the story she told me before. "But if he's still here, he must not be able to forget about that priest. I feel kind of sorry for him…if only there was something the priest used to wear that might take his mind of his master's death. Too bad that there's nothing like that I can think of…oh, I was on my way to buy miso. Well then." with that she walks off. Damn she's chatty.
Koromaru whines a bit he had been sitting the whole time that woman was yakking.
"We're with you Koromaru." he looks up at me before barking, with that he stands and goes back into the shrine.
Naganaki Shrine…
No one's here. It's pretty quiet too, suddenly Koromaru howls towards the shrine. Other howls from other dogs follow from every direction. How many of them are there?
"Are you saying hi to the priest?"
He barks once. I…think that was a yes. While I can't understand him fully…I think I'm starting to understand him a bit…with that realization my inner strength increases.
9/22/09
Early Morning, Bedroom…
My phone is ringing…I can already tell what this is going to be about. Sighing I pick up the phone. "Good morning. This is Theodore. There is a human-2 of them, I think-wandering around Tartarus. Please carry out a search and rescue. Goodbye, now." with that he hangs up.
I get out of bed and do my daily rituals before heading for Bookworms.
Iwatodai Strip Mall, Bookworms Used Books…
"Ah…Minako-chan. Welcome-"
Mitsuko bursts into sobs. …what happened?
"What's wrong?"
"Don't worry." Bunkichi turns to me. "She's crying because she's happy. She always cries at happy events, like the day we first met!" He's awfully excited about something. "All the graduates from my son's class have gathered at the school. They're collecting signatures to save the persimmon tree!"
"They say the tree is a memorial to their former teacher…they don't want it to be cut down." Mitsuko smiles brightly while the tears shine in her eyes.
"That's good."
"Many of them came to our son's funeral…It's been so many years…but they still remember him…" Bunkichi seems touched by that.
"They've given their precious time…" Mitsuko sobs. "…for our son…I-I don't know what to say…" as she struggles to get her tears under control Bunkichi gives me a grin.
"…Minako-chan, were you the one who called them all?" Eh? No.
"No."
"There's no need to be modest. Minako-chan." …it really wasn't me. "You're a samurai, Minako-chan! A modern day samurai…what's the female version of a samurai? A kunoichi?" he nods. "Then that is what our Minako-chan is! A Kunoichi!" …I thought a kunoichi was a female ninja? Whatever. The strength of their appreciation increases my inner strength. "…Don't forget about us, even after you've graduated and become an adult. Someday, I'd like to go have a drink together…but, let's wait until you're legal." I nod and he hands me a Cielo Mist. "See you later Minako-chan."
"Good bye!" I wave to the two of them. It's still early so I head to the theater to work. I received 9000 yen and headed back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
Koromaru barks in greeting when he sees me. I scratch him behind the ears laughing as his tongue hangs out in excitement. As I take him out Shinjiro asks to come along, he might as well. I could use the company.
Naganaki Shrine…
Koromaru dashes into the park barking all the while.
"Well, aren't you happy today…" Shinjiro watches Koromaru in amusement. "The pooch must've been worried 'cause you were sick so long, Minako. I ain't trying to nag, but don't take your health for granted. Those powers of yours are like our secret weapon. And it's no secret that Aki and Kirijo have their hands full with their own problems."
I nod but…that was mostly damn Igor's fault! Gah!
Koromaru runs back over to us his tail wagging happily.
"Ah, you're back. You hungry? I'll fix you something when we get back."
"Can you make me something too, Senpai?" I try to give him my best puppy dog eyes.
He looks me over before sighing. "Fine." Despite the short response he seems almost…pleased. "Ready to go?" the three of us head back to the dorm.
9/23/09
Today's that one day special of the film festival. …I really should have preordered tickets. Shinjiro looks me over when he sees me come down stairs. "…You finally look better. When you were sick, your face was white as a sheet." Hm? Wait…he saw me when I was sick? I thought I stayed in my room the whole time? "I'm glad to see you up and around."
"Yeah…I feel a lot better. Shinjiro-senpai?"
"Yeah?"
"You heard about the film festival right?"
"…Huh? Film Festival? I totally forgot they had those…not that I've ever been to one."
"Let's go."
"…you want to go with me? Wouldn't you have more fun if you went with one of your girl friends?"
"I asked you though."
"…Let's go, then." with that the two of us head for the theater.
Port Island Station, movie theater…
The place is crowded though…seriously? The theme just had to be some Incredible Pet Stories Series. Ugh. I just know he's going to make some kid comment.
"Are we…really watching this?" We don't have much choice. They aren't showing anything else. I wait for the "you're such a kid" comment. "Well…If this is what you really want, I guess I'm game too." Really? He'd watch this? "We going or not?"
"Oh…yeah!" we head into the theater.
…Those movies were actually kind of sad. Seeing some of the animals fight to survive and some of them fail…
"…The river…it just…washed that dog away…" is his eyes red?
"…are you going to cry?"
"…I've gotta go."
"You totally are! Come back here!" He walks off but I run after him. I tease him the whole way back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
Mitsuru greets me when I walk in. …The Chairman's here today too…he and Mitsuru are talking about something, so I decide to go walk Koromaru. He spends most of the time running around happily as I watch him in amusement. After he's done we go back to the dorm and I go to bed.
9/24/09
Gekkoukan Front Gate…
"Good morning!" Fuuka greets me happily. "…It feels like fall since the typhoon passed, doesn't it?" she sighs heavily. "I hope the fighting ends before winter comes…"
"I'm sure it will." I hope so. I have no desire to fight Shadows in the snow.
"…I hope so…" with that the two of us head to class. Afternoon class was apparently cancelled because we need to clean up because of the Typhoon.
Gekkoukan High School, Science Room…
I'm assigned to clean up with Yukari, Junpei, and Aeon.
"Well, let's get this over with. Umm…" Yukari looks over the room. "Let's break up into groups of two. One person takes down photos, the other binds them together."
"Alright."
"Let's just get this over with."
"Geez, you're so serious all the time." Junpei sighs. "We're allowed to take this easy, y'know?" shaking my head I start cleaning.
"Sucks for the photography club that they took so many pictures and no one got to see any of them…" Yukari looks over the photos that we're taking down. "…Oh, isn't this from the summer fellowship?" Huh. I'm in that picture.
"Huh? Let me see." Junpei leans over
"Look, here's Minako." Yukari points to my spot in the photo before turning to me "You guys went to a school in the countryside, right?"
"It was nice."
"Lucky! They had a hot spring too, didn't they?"
"I would like to go into a hot spring. I've heard that they are very relaxing."
"We'll be going in one soon enough." Junpei answers happily.
"…Are you talking about the school trip? That's in November…Talk about jumping the gun. I can't believe we're going to Kyoto…"
"Eh, it's where everyone goes." Junpei just shrugs. "I really wish they wouldn't make us go to all the shrines and stuff."
"Yeah, seriously." Huh? Kenji pretty much comes out of nowhere. Kazushi is with him, and they have cleaning supplies.
"So, Yukari-san. Why don't I show you around Kyoto when we go?"
"How did we jump onto that subject…?" Yukari sighs in exasperation. "Anyways, did you find a nail puller?"
Kenji nods. "Yeah, Kazushi brought all of them."
"You've got a bunch to choose from." Why does Kazushi say that like it's a good thing?
Yukari shakes her head. "We just needed one or two…aren't the guys in the other classes going to need them, too?"
"Oh, y-you're right…I'll go return the rest!"
"Uh, well…I don't think you need to go right away. Just if someone asks."
"I-I see…then I'll leave them here!"
"You know…" Kenji grins at Kazushi. "When you're with girls…Well, more like, when you're with Yukari-san.
"Wh-What?" Kazushi stammers.
"Nothing. Huh…so that's how it is." Kenji chuckles. "…That reminds me. Junpei, you were in charge of the popping stuff. Did you bring some?"
"Popping stuff…? Ohhh! The bubble wrap. Uh…good call, Kenji. Go get it. You know where they keep all this stuff, right?"
"Well, yeah, but…I just got back form there. You go get it. You're the on who forgot in the first place."
"Huh? Are you sure? You really don't wanna go? That place is like a paradise, you know that? Some fine chicas there who'd be just your type…."
"W-Wait, are you serious? Be right back, guys!" He brightens before rolling his eyes. "…Yeah, like I'd fall for that, dumbass. What kind of supply room is stocked with hot babes?"
"Ugh, we're never gonna finish at this rate. If you're gonna talk, talk while you work!" Yukari walks off somewhere.
"She's like a pissed-off samurai…"
"I heard that!" I guess she wasn't completely gone… "Geez…are you stupid or something?"
"More like Stupei, I think." Kenji adds. HA! I snicker.
"D-Déjà vu…!" Junpei sighs. "Fine…I'll go to the supply room later…"
"But man…it's a real shame the school festival fell through. There was some hilarious stuff planned. Like a cross-dressing pageant. They said it would be open to everyone, so I was planning on jumping in."
"Huh? You, cross-dressing? Oh hell no…" he pauses for a second as if picture Kenji cross dressing. "Nah, no way."
"You were imagining it just now, huh? I must've been super cute."
"Where in the world does your confidence come from…?"
"Well, I'd be a lot better at it than you. You'd just look creepy." That's the truth. Junpei in a dress is enough to give me nightmares.
"…I don't think you needed to go that far. I mean, hey, I'd be cuter than Kaz here, right?"
"Me? Why would I…"
"You hear that, Kaz? He just said you'd lose. Are you gonna take that from him?" And why is Kenji trying to start something?
"Wha…? There's no doubt that I'd be the cutest!" this has gone from mildly hilarious to mildly disturbing. "I'd be the cutest one in school!"
"You wish." Aeon smirks. "I'd be far superior to all three of you." …Aeon…wouldn't look too bad as a girl actually.
"You are pretty girly so maybe." Junpei smirks as he says this. …he does realize Aeon wouldn't see that as an insult right?
Aeon tilts his head to the side. …yup. Did not comprehend. "Is it common for males to speak to each other in such a manner? In my data-"
"ANYWAY!" I interrupt loudly. "None of this matters. So let's just finish cleaning." …please let that end the subject.
"But…Minako-chan. What do you think? Whose cross-dressing would be the best."
"Well…you actually." He smiles smugly at this. …I wonder how much money they spent on giving him such realistic facial expressions.
"I have won."
"Damn it…! Just wait 'til next time!" Kazushi's actually a little jealous?
Yukari just shakes her head. "Alright, you better move outta the way. You guys are holding everything up."
"S-Sorry." Kazushi moves.
"You know, if you judge just by appearance, Yuka-tan is already "super cute"…" Junpei laughs.
"What're you trying to say?" Yukari glares at Junpei. …he needs to learn the art of being silent.
"Uh, nothing…" that wiped the grin off his face.
"Junpei-kun is saying that your personality is unattractive Yukari-kun."
"Yeah. I got that." she snaps and her glare intensifies.
"…Aeon…" Junpei backs up a little in alarm. "You've gots to learn how to shut up man…see what I mean?" Yukari grabs him and starts…is she chocking him? "S-Stop chocking me! K-Kaz! Say something!"
"Y-You gotta use your guts!" …and that helps how Kazushi?
Both Yukari and Junpei turn to him in confusion. "For what?" Junpei looks at him baffled. Yukari's stopped chocking him at least.
"Th-That reminds me. It's a shame you never got to war that maid costume, Yukari-san." Trust Kenji to bring that up.
"Huh? Ughh…so word got out about that. I'm relieved it never happened…"
"But I bet lotsa guys were really disappointed…right, Kazushi?"
"Huh? R-Really? Wait, what's a maid?"
"A pure soul…!" Junpei stares at Kazushi in shock.
"That…reminds me. Minako-chan said the maid outfit was a "fetish". What is a "Fetish?"."
Kenji gapes at Aeon in shock. "You don't know what a fetish is man?"
"No…what is it?"
"…It's…something that…guys like Junpei dream about."
Aeon did his head tilt thing and I knew he still didn't understand.
Yukari just sighs. "Junpei…"
"W-wait a sec, what's that look for? You act like I did something!"
"Junpei-kun dreams of Yukari in a maid outfit?" Aeon blinks slowly. "…That is his fetish?"
"NO!" Junpei jumps before grabbing a bunch of cleaning supplies. "Look let's just get back to work." with that we all finish cleaning up.
After School I head to the library.
Gekkoukan High School, Library…
Thankfully everyone isn't completely avoiding Saori anymore even though only a few of them speak to her.
"Ah, good. You're still here." Ms. Ounishi walks in. "Sorry to keep you here so late on a day like this."
"Oh no, it's my job as a member of the library committee to be here."
"I see…you're a hard-working girl. Hopefully more people will come to understand that in time."
Saori brightens at that. "Ms. Ounishi…Thank you very much. …Hey, Minako-chan. Would you mind walking me to the school gates?"
"No problem." with that the two of us head for the gates…there's a car pulled up.
Gekkoukan High School, Front Gate
"My ride's here, so I'm going that way. This is where we say…farewell."
"Goodbye."
"…This is my last day here at Gekkoukan." Somehow I figured… "I'm leaving for that private school I told you about tonight. I'm sorry that I couldn't tell you…" she gives me a small smile. "I'm going to be sad, but I think this is a turning point for me. I'm going to try to start over and try to stand up on my own."
"You can do it. Just believe in yourself."
She smiles. "Thanks. I'll never forget about you. I've always been told…to not have any opinions for myself. …That it was an easier way to live. I can make anything someone else's fault. Deep down, I always believed that everything that happened to me was the result of somebody else's doing. But this is my life, and what I do happens to me. No one can take my place, and I have no one to blame but myself for what I let happen to me. That's why I need to stand on my own. I need to have my own voice…"
She looks over at the car briefly before continuing. "I knew that I'd never get anywhere if I let other people tell me what to do. I've known it for a long time. But, I had no one to give me the final push that I needed. …And I was too scared to accept it, even if I did have someone to help me. But you pushed me forward, along with all the fears I had. That's why…I was able to do this." Saori takes her cell phone out. …Hm? She made a recording of her PA announcement? "Hehe…I made a recording of the announcement as I was making it. Whenever I feel scared or discouraged I'm going to listen to it. I was brave and spoke my own mind, and you helped me find that courage…I'm sure that this will give me the strength if I ever need it. I want you to remember this, too. Please remember that it's because of you that I was able to do my best. You saved me. So…please take this." she sends a copy of the recording to my phone. I go ahead and save it. "Lastly…let's shake hands." As the warmth of her hand meets mine I feel my heart grow warm.
Thou art I…
And I am thou…
Thou hast established a genuine bond…
The innermost power of the Hermit Arcana has been set free.
We bestow upon thee the ability to create Arahabaki the ultimate form of the Hermit Arcana…
"Do you remember your first love?" …I don't think I can remember having one…oddly enough. The closest thing I can think of was some boy in my dreams but…he wasn't real. "Mine…was my uncle." she laughs. "I mean, I was a little girl." Oh. I was squicked for a second. "It's not that unusual, right? …That's why I wanted to hurry up and become an adult. Every night, I would pray to the stars that I wanted to be grown up. Now, I look back at my childhood and laugh. I wish I could go back to those innocent times…Maybe it's for the best that one's first love almost never comes true." she looks once more at the car. "…Well then, I'm going to go. Thank you…goodbye!" with that she walks away with her head high. As I watch the car drive off I can't help but smile as I head back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"Hello!" Ken greets me when I walk in. "Are we going to Tartarus today?" Speaking of Tartarus…I can't believe I forgot about the people trapped in there. …I hope they're okay. "The Lost are increasing, and I wanna get stronger…So if you're going, please take me."
"Yeah…Fuuka. We're heading to Tartarus tonight." she nods and a few moments before the Dark Hour hits we head out.
Tartarus…
I take Akihiko, Ken and Aeon with me tonight. We ended up finding the girl on the 131st floor. …Though Tartarus isn't really much of a challenge right now…I'm somewhat…disappointed. Oddly enough. We run into a duo of Hakurou Musha's…those are a challenge it's fun fighting them. On the 135th floor there's a single powerful Shadow. …I think this is the first time I've been happy to hear that.
It's a giant white table…
"It seems like it's exceptionally strong! Its Arcana is the Magician." I first use a Masukukaja spell to increase everyone's evasion. Akihiko as usual focuses on rebuffing. …which was good considering it does a group fire spell that nearly takes everyone out! Damn! Ken heals everyone while I attack the stupid table again. Urgh…damn thing nearly killed me! What the hell! Akihiko revives Ken one of those bead chains come out and it falls into the ground shattering….huh? Everyone's fully healed? That's what those things do?
"Aeon…use one of the magic mirrors!" He does so and I sigh. Urgh. This sucks. Akihiko re lowers it's attack and HA! How do you like your spell being reflected back!. The blasted thing knocks Ken unconscious again. Nearly killing everyone in the group with the exception of me because I switched to Hua Po who's immune to fire spells. Ken finishes it off with a Zionga spell. With that done we head upstairs. We found the second missing person on the 137th floor, so Yukari and Junpei volunteer to take them back to the dorm. With that we reach the next blockade on the 139th floor That done we head back for the dorm.
9/25/09
"Hey Minako…do you want to hang out?" Yukari approaches me after class.
"Yeah. Sure."
Iwatodai Strip Mall…
We're just walking around browsing shops.
"Um, going to the bookstore is kinda lame…" …right through my heart. "Let's go somewhere else. …Wait, lemme see how much money I have." she reaches in her pocket. "Oh, no! Where's my wallet? D-Did I drop it..?" And that is why wallet chains were invented. "But, when…? I had it when I pulled out my ticket at the station…wait…someone bumped into me right outside the train station. Sorry, I'm gonna go back there and look around."
"I'll go with you."
She shakes her head. "That's okay. I mean, it's just over there. Wait here, okay? Well, I'll be right back?" …with that she runs off. I wait for a good four minutes before getting annoyed and following her.
Iwatodai Station…
Hm? Some guy is yelling. "What'd you say? You better shut your mouth, bitch!" …it's a bunch of thugs. I sigh heavily. Leave it to Yukari to start shit with nothing to back it up. …I can't very well take out my sword and charge at them. I'd get my ass arrested. And I'm pretty sure even Mitsuru wouldn't be able to smooth it over completely.
"Can I get a piece of that, Bro?" Urgh. …Though…my training with Akihiko might come in handy here. There's four of them…so I'll be pushing it…damn. If only there was a pipe or something nearby! Damn they're surrounding her! I have no damn time. I run forward.
"Minako…!" she looks at me shocked for some reason. …I wonder if I could just use one of my Personas to scare them shitless.
"Huh? You want in on this too, sis?"
"Dude, they're both hot, Bro!" Damn…if Yukari wasn't a ranged fighter we might have decent odds. As it is it's four on one.
[Hehehehe. Oh this will be fun.]
Eh? That sure in hell isn't Orpheus.
[We can tear them apart right? And feast on them?]
…I think I'm more scared of myself right now than these dumb punks.
[I doubt they would be missed…and I would swallow them whole…there would be no evidence left behind at all.] more maniacal chuckling.
…who the hell are you?
There's no answer. Simply more maniacal laughter and speech about how it would devour them.
…Fantastic. If I didn't think I already needed therapy this would have solidified it.
"Hey, what's going on over there?" Some girl is walking over with a group of people.
"Somebody call the police!" It's a man now. The punks pause before backing away from us.
"Shit, let's split before the pigs get here!" with that they run off. I shake my head in irritation. If that girl hadn't been here…someone would be dead. Damn Yukari! Why the hell didn't she just ask me to come with her!
"Oh, Minako…did you…call them? …Thanks." Call them? What? Oh never mind. "What the hell…Seriously!" she looks disgusted. "What's up with those punks? Total wastes of humanity! Seriously? What the hell! Geez…" she's trembling with fear…I'm scared too but it isn't certainly because of those punks. What the hell was that speaking to me before? I know it was more than likely a Persona but the bloodlust and hatred in its voice. I shudder. That was a part of me? "I'm so pissed off…! I thought, "Someone, help me!"! I said that I wouldn't have to rely on anyone, but I needed somebody in a time like this…! I'm so pissed off at myself! This…this is no different from my mom!" she's still shaking though the fear has been replaced by anger. …with her words my inner strength increases. She sighs. "…I'm gonna go back." she runs off then.
You could have at least said bye. I went back to school to Fashion Club. We spent the rest of the day working on our respective projects. I headed back to the dorm afterward
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…S'up, dude? The next full moon's coming up…" Junpei greets me when I walk into the dorm. Yeah. Nine more days. "And since Chidori's getting better, I think I should start training again. Besides, those Apathy freaks are popping up everywhere." I nod. Alright. We'll head for Tartarus tonight. As I'm heading upstairs I notice Shinjiro looks annoyed about something so I walk over to him.
"Hey Shinjiro."
"Hey…mind if we step out for a bit?" I look at him questioningly. "…It's just, I feel uncomfortable…"
"Did something happen?"
"It's nothing like that," he blushes "but…" I guess he doesn't want to discuss it here.
"Uh…no I don't mind. Let's go."
Right outside the Dorm…
As soon as I close the door behind us Shinjiro releases a heavy sigh.
"Seriously…" he shakes his head. "Sorry. …Those guys keeping yapping at me."
"Yapping?"
"…you remember how I cooked for them the other day?" How could I forget? If the food hadn't stuck in my memories the whole Fetish conversation would have. "They keep going on and on about how delicious it was and how I should do it again…Aki keeps pushing these requests on me, Fuuka's throwing cookbooks at me…and whenever I walk past the kitchen, they all stare at me like they're just waiting for me to do something…" he shrugs
I laugh. "Well I had my hopes up too."
"Hey, don't look at me like that." he smiles laughing bashfully. He really does have a nice smile. "Well…I'm glad they liked it. Do you think it's funny that I did that? You thin it isn't like me? I mean, there's nothing wrong with having good memories to grow up with. We've got two kids at the dorm, anyway. One big one, and one tiny one.." I laugh because it is true Junpei was pretty much a big kid. …Though I hope he didn't mean me. Oh well. Even if he does it doesn't matter. "…how about you? Did you have fun too?"
"Yeah I did."
He laughs again. I like his laugh, he usually looks so intense and serious but when he laughs, his face brightens and he looks…rather good looking when he does so. "Good to hear." he stops smiling before continuing. "Making memories is important. People can go on as long as they have good things to look back on…" Sounds like he's speaking from experience. He mutters something else but I don't quite catch it. He looks at me directly in my eyes with that scrutinizing gaze. "You know, you…" he pauses for a moment. "Shouldn't you be doing something else?" Something else? "You shouldn't be with me like this…" but…I actually like being with him. I feel comfortable. It happened without me fully realizing it…first I only wanted his company for peace in the group, then for the sake of the power he would give me but now…I find myself enjoying it. "Don't you…have more fun things to do?"
Am I bothering him or something? "Am I bothering you?"
"Huh? Why do you think I'd…" he's blushing again. Huh. He's pretty cute like that. "I mean, you're just jumping to conclusions. …Well if you don't mind, I don't mind." he sighs. Was that concern? It's an odd way of showing it to be sure but…I feel my inner strength increase. "Might as well stop by somewhere, since we're already out. …You want some ice cream from the convenience store? My treat."
"Sure." Yay. I can finally get some strawberry ice cream. Yum.
We headed to the store and bought some ice cream. I bought some cones and refused to leave the store until I made an ice cream cone. Shinjiro just chuckled at my antics.
"You're such a kid."
I shrug happily licking my ice cream cone as we walk back to the dorm. I have to admit…he's grown on me.
9/26/09
After school I decide to head for cooking club. I might as well see if Shinjiro's lesson took any root.
Gekkoukan High School, Home Economics Room…
"Um, I'm thinking about making rice balls again today. This is the only thing I can make myself, so I want to master making them. What are you going to make, Minako-chan?" Huh…I might as well make some chocolate truffles.
They come out pretty well and as usual I place them in the bag. …why is Fuuka just standing there?
"This…" she sighs heavily. "The rice…it's all soggy…" I look at the rice cooker that she's holding. It's filled to the brim with rice and the rice is indeed soggy looks more like porridge than rice. "Did I put too much water in…? I just tried to make rice, and I ruined it all…what a waste…seriously…I'm hopeless at everything…"
"That's not true Fuuka." …no one is hopeless at anything. Besides, didn't she say she was good with machinery?
"But…thanks…" she looks back at the rice. "But what should I do with this…? It's so much rice…it would be such a shame to waste it all."
"It's rice porridge now."
"…Oh, that's right. It doesn't have to be made into rice balls." she chuckles. "I hadn't even thought of that." she looks relieved. "Oh, you're right! We should just have rice porridge. I have a lot of pickled plums." with that she gets to making it. She hands me a small bowl full. "Here you go, this is your share, Minako-chan. Thanks for the food." she takes a bit of her own portion before giggling. "This is good rice porridge. …Thank you, Minako-chan." with her thanks I feel my inner strength increase. "I didn't know that the amount of water you use would change things this much. Oh, I should write that down somewhere…Let's see… "Pay attention to the amount of water to use when cooking rice."…" she continues taking notes and after she finishes we clean up and head back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
Koromaru greets me when I enter the dorm. I scratch him behind the ears and promise to walk him later and look at Ken who is actually downstairs for once. I walk over to him.
"Hey Ken."
"Oh…hello." he looks down about something.
"Why are you always in your room? We wouldn't mind it if you were in the lounge you know.
"No reason, really…." he looks away from me as he speaks. …if he was a bit older I'd be a bit squicked out. That said I head over to Shinjiro.
"Minako…" I look up at him he looks serious about something. "You mind coming with me?"
"Yeah. No problem."
"Thanks."
Iwatodai Port Station, Back Alley…
We ended up walking together and came here.
"…Here we are again. …That reminds me, I met you here, too…back then, I never imagined that I'd go back there…" …did something happen here? Other than that gang incident?
"Well…I'm glad you came back." It's odd but…that's how I really feel.
He smiles bashfully at this. "…I doubt that I'm bringing that much to the team, though." He turns towards the wall and looks down…he seems less sure of himself than usual. "You're…a pain. You keep messing things up for me…I keep thinking that my life is the way it's supposed to be, but…sheesh…your face keeps popping up in my head…" he sighs heavily. With his words I feel our bond strengthen and my inner strength increases. "…Guess we should head back. We actually have a place we can go back to."
I nod and the two of us head to the dorm in silence. As soon as I get back I go to my bedroom and climb into bed. I can't help but wonder why Shinjiro is acting so strangely lately.
9/27/09
It's Sunday but my phone starts ringing.
"Hello? It's me, Minako." …how is "it's me" supposed to clear anything up Akihiko? "Can I speak with you right now?"
"Sure."
"Want to go out somewhere today? I'm bored of laying about in my room."
"Okay."
"Good I'll meet you downstairs."
I get dressed quickly and Akihiko and I walk to Duck Duck Burger together.
Iwatodai Strip Mall, Duck Duck Burger…
"By the way…did you know there's a plan to build a big pool around here?" He looks happy about that. Probably thinking of all the ways he can use it for training regiments. "Swimming is highly effective aerobic exercise. It's good for your health, too. Stuff like jogging and cycling are good aerobic exercises too, but…" he goes on about how good exercise is while I eat. "Hey, do you want to go swimming with me when the pool opens?" Like a contest? Awesome!
"That'll be fun. We can race."
He smiles at that. "Sure."
"Want to make a bet?"
"A bet?"
"Yeah!"
"What kind of stakes?"
"…" what kind of stakes. "Just a basic you lose and treat the other to dinner."
"That'll be fine…though, there's no knowing if the plan's for real or not yet. Still, I look forward to going with you." I nod and the two of us finish our meal.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Hey." Shinjiro greets me when I walk in. He looks busy with something and Koromaru walks up to me nudging my leg. He wants a walk? Since Akihiko's right next to me, we decide to go together.
Naganaki Shrine…
Akihiko cases Koromaru around…damn Koromaru's quick.
"Trying to keep up with you is a great way to train…" Akihiko is panting, while Koromaru doesn't even look the slightest bit tired. He looks over at Koromaru and a pained expression crosses his face. "When I was a kid, I found a stray dog…but we couldn't have pets at the orphanage. …Ever since Shinji came back, I've been thinking about the past a lot…the two of you are getting along well though right?"
"Huh…yeah." …Shinjiro…I feel…strange around him. At peace…it's a silly thought.
He nods pleased. "That's good. I was hoping the two of you would."
"How have you been Akihiko. I haven't seen you around lately."
"Me? I've just been…thinking a lot." he looks down. "I'm just not sure what to do…"
I have a feeling that whatever it is he can't, or won't tell me. That said…I shouldn't pry.
"Though, I…" he stops when Koromaru barks.
…damn it Koromaru!
"Yo, welcome back. You all done? Well then, let's head back." with that the three of us head back for the dorm. I go to bed immediately.
Bedroom, Dark Hour…
…It's Pharos again.
"Good evening. I'm sure I don't have to tell you this; but…there's only one more week until the full moon. …I hope nothing serious happens." …why do I have the feeling I've just been jinxed? "But, who knows what the future will bring…so be careful. Remember, I'm always watching you. …We'll meet again." with that he vanishes.
That was awfully quick.
9/28/09
After School…
Weird…Aeon just got up and left as soon as class was over. I decide to go ahead and head to practice. The only ones there will be Rio and I after all.
Gekkoukan High School, field…
Rio is standing alone in the corner for some reason…
"Is something wrong?"
"Oh, Minako…nothing." nothing huh? "Nothing's wrong, but I can't get myself to move, and…" she looks ready to cry.
"If you can't get yourself to move something must be wrong. What is it?"
She's quiet for a few moments. "I was walking past the spare room a moment ago and I heard Kenji's voice…but…I heard Ms. Kanou, too…" she looks down at this. "They seemed to be getting along great." she mumbles the last bit. "Do…do you think they're going to date each other?"
"Uh…not unless Ms. Kanou wants to be fired."
She nods. "You're right. They're a teacher and a student. It just wouldn't work out. He's such an idiot!" she gets angry. "He's just being toyed with! He'll just end up hurt in the end. Why…Why'd he choose someone like her?"
"Why do you care so much?" I get that they're friends but if that was the case she'd be more exasperated and annoyed than angry.
"I…I don't know…" she looks ready to cry.
"You aren't happy for him at all?" I mean yeah Kenji's an idiot but they are childhood friends. You'd think she'd hope that things went well despite the odds being against it.
"You mean…hope things go well for them…? I-I can't do that…!" she bursts into tears. "I…didn't know I was such a nasty person." she sounds burned out and sad now. "I've got these terrible feelings inside me…I hate myself…" I'm not sure it's all that bad. "What is wrong with me?"
"I guess you like Kenji." It would explain why she's so angry about him and Ms. Kanou. I try to think how I would feel if Shinjiro had a girlfriend…I expect to feel nonchalance or maybe anger but instead I just felt a sorrow…does he have a girlfriend? I never asked…
"Like…?" she laughs bitterly. "I get it…so that's why…" her tears are still flowing. "I'm such an idiot. I didn't know…all this time. By the time I realized it, it was too late." another bitter laugh. "How stupid of me."
"You could try telling him." at least then he'd know.
Rio shakes her head. "I know he likes older women, and he doesn't even think of me as a girl at all…I know that I don't have a chance…" and yet more tears spill.
"It's probably best if you tell him anyway. Even if he doesn't share your feelings at least you'll not have to worry about "what if" you told him." and she could move on. "You'll feel better afterwards."
She doesn't look like she believes me. "I guess…" she gives me a small smile and I feel my inner strength increase. "Sorry we didn't get much practice in today…I'm going to go home…" she stands up. "I'll be able to smile tomorrow…so act like you don't know anything." I nod as she leaves the field. It's still early so I head for the police station. I could use more supplies. Office Kurosawa had more rewards for me a Slash Repeller and 100000 yen in cash. I buy some more supplies for everyone else in the group and go to work. Afterwards I head back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Hey." Shinjiro greets me when I walk in. "Just one more week…" until the next big Shadow. Yay. With that in mind I probably should head to Tartarus, I'll hang out with Shinjiro first.
"You want to go out somewhere?"
He shakes his head. "Why don't we stay here for today? Sit over there." the lounge is empty, I guess seeing as we weren't going to Tartarus everyone went off to do their own thing. We sit in silence for a few moments. "C'mon, say something."
"Should I tell a scary story?"
"What's up with that…?" But his expression turns thoughtful and he smiles lightly. "Oh, yeah…you seemed into ghost stories that first time you went to that back alley, too…seriously, you're such a kid…" I just happen to like scary things is all. He chuckles. "Go ahead."
"Well…which should I tell you? About Rip Van Wrinkle…" I go into the whole myth, when I'm done he asks if I know another so I tell him the myth about Pumpkin Head, moving on to Jack the Ripper, Chucky and all the horror movies and books I can think of.
As I speak his expression doesn't change much…but that's not to unusual. It's more of the sadness that hangs around him…it's not like Akinari's which makes me want to hold him and cry but…shaking it off, I finish the tale of Friday the 13th.
"Are you done?" That was most of the horror stories I could think of….
"C'mon, tell me more. Encore, encore!" he laughs and I dive into another set of tales these more cheerful then the last. I tell him about everything, about Rio, Hidetoshi, the people I've met, Ekoda being a jerk, meeting Tanaka (though I do leave out his secrets he did trust me with those after all), Fuuka's cooking classes which cause a chuckle of amusement, Mutatsu and even Akinari. He just listens as I go on and on barely making a sound except to encourage me to keep talking when I run out of a subject.
He laughs when I'm done with my latest story about Yuko thinking it was a ghost at the school trip when I had tripped the lights. "Sounds like you're enjoying your days. You look best when you laugh." I feel my heart flutter at those words. He turns serious all of a sudden. "So don't cry, got it…?"
"What do you mean?"
"…Just what I said." oh so now he's trying to avoid the question? I open my mouth to continue but he looks down and he looks so lonesome that my words dry up in my mouth. "I gotta make sure I don't leave anything behind…no doubts, no regrets…"
"Leave behind?" Is he going somewhere?
"I keep telling you what to forget and what to remember…want to want and to not want…I'm…selfish, aren't I?'
"Very." I can't help but add dryly.
"…Hey. As long as I'm already being selfish, I want you to do one more thing for me."
"What is it?"
"You don't have to forgive me…but forgive everything else…" …what?
"What're you talking about?"
"…You'll understand later." …is he planning on ditching us or something? …but if that was the case there'd be no need to forgive everything else… "It should be like this…for a little while longer. I just want it to be…normal…" he smiles but his face is still down. Why do I have the feeling that I was just given the key piece in a puzzle…but I have no clue what that puzzle is. Or what to do with it. And…yet again my inner strength has increased. "Is it getting late? …Ugh, I forgot that I don't have my watch.
"Did you lose it?"
"Yeah, I lost it somewhere. It was a shabby old…pocket watch. I got it from someone sometime ago…damn it." he sighs. I wonder who gave it to him? "So? You have any more?" Any more? "I want to hear what you've got to say. You've got more stories up your sleeve, right? …Anything's fine."
So nodding I go into stories about Maiko, my earlier missions with SEES, arguments with Junpei, How I met Aeon, you would think he'd get bored listening to me drone on and on but he never does before I know it I'm telling him practically everything that happened this year, and then tales about home. I try to keep it mostly to happy memories but a few sad ones creep in yet he doesn't seem to mind. Even then he listens to me, we end up speaking through the dark hour and it's around 2 in the morning when he eventually looks me over with a small smile tells me I'm slurring and I should head for bed. Nodding sleepily I go ahead as I do I can't help but feel my face warm at the gentleness he displayed. He's nothing like I originally thought…
9/29/09
After School…
Nothing of any interest happens during school. After class Aeon gently tugs on my arm.
"Minako-chan…may I ask you something?"
"Sure. Go ahead."
"Do…" he leans in forward and whispers the rest. "you think anyone suspects I'm a robot?"
I shake my head.
"I see." He nods pleased. "Then I need not adjust my behavior nor eliminate any suspicious targets."
"Why do you ask?"
His frown deepens. "Junpei-kun claimed that I was unable to act the part of a normal man."
I roll my eyes. "Just ignore him."
"I see…then I shall ignore Junpei-kun's advice from now on in favor of Minako-chan's." He smiles at me with that.
"Hey…Yukari?" She was just walking out of the door. "Want to go out and eat?"
"Uh…sure." with that we head to Duck Duck Burger. She looks a bit anxious as we walk there but doesn't say anything.
Iwatodai Strip Mall, Duck Duck Burger…
It doesn't take long for me to order and start eating.
"H-Hey, um…" I swallow and look up at her she still has that anxious look on her face. ""Do you remember when those guys stole my wallet, and you came to help me? And still…I just blurted out stuff that made no sense…I was just so angry at myself. D-Did it make you mad?" She means the yelling afterwards? No that wasn't what pissed me off. It was more the fact that she ran off by herself without even bothering to let me help.
"Huh? I forgot about that to tell you the truth." Seriously it's a typical Yukari thing to do. Nothing to yank my hair out over.
"Oh, I see…" she cheers up. "…Wait, are you trying to be nice?" she shakes her head in exasperation but she looks relieved. "I always just blurt out whatever I'm thinking to you." she chuckles. "…I wonder why."
"I thought it was because we're friends."
She stares at me in shock for a moment. "Oh…I get it now…that's how friends are…" What. She is not going to seriously tell me she's never had a real friend before. "I think there's a part of me that's really unsentimental. I always keep thinking of myself as part from others…to tell the truth, I didn't care about other people. But at the same time, I didn't want anybody to get involved with me either. …But," she gives me a smile. "It's kinda different with you. I don't mind how much you try to be my friend…actually, I look forward to it." Try to be her friend? I thought it just happened. There certainly wasn't any effort on my part… "I think, deep down…I wanted someone to understand what I was going through. Maybe I wanted someone to be sympathetic and say "Oh, poor thing, you're doing your best…" maybe I want someone to try to take special care of me for once…not that I'd let just anyone do it. I'd only want someone I like to do that for me." she gives me an affectionate smile. …Okay then…my inner strength increases.
"Y-Yikes, I didn't mean to just start babbling all this embarrassing stuff! At Duck of all places…! C'mon, eat your fries! We're leaving!" Noooo! I just started! I barely shove my last French fry in my mouth. I guess she notices my horrified expression because she laughs. "…We'll grab some anmitsu before going back." with that we headed to the sweet shop and had some before going back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Hi, how was your day?" Fuuka greets me when I walk into the dorm. "Minako, have you been able to figure out why the machine in the command room is malfunctioning?" Actually to be perfectly honest I haven't. Though those videos were pretty hilarious…I'm…going to keep that to myself. "Mitsuru-senpai asked me to take a look, but…I have no idea what's wrong with it…" It's recording all of you that's what's wrong with it. "It seems to break down once a month around…" the full moon? "Oh, but don't worry, it doesn't affect our missions or anything."
Oh fine. I head up to the Command Room to see what's wrong. Everyone else is gathered in the lounge so I should have plenty of warning if someone decides to help me.
Dorm, Command Room…
I head over to the console and yeah…there's a new recording.
07/15/2009 17:05:38 Beginning playback.
Huh. This was right before Yakushima…why is it recording in Fuuka's room? There's cameras in our ROOMS? What kind of pervert-! I bet the Chairman did it! URGH! I swear the next time I see him-!
"Hmm…" I decide to stop my inner ranting and watch the video. "I wonder if I should have gone for the one-piece suit instead…" Fuuka is standing in front of the camera in her swimsuit. I guess she's trying it on. …Wait? The camera is near her mirror? "These halter top bikinis look almost like underwear…" she frowns. "It feels weird to have my belly button exposed…" she looks a little embarrassed as she poses. "Now that I think about it…this is my first time choosing my own swimsuit. But there wasn't much of a selection with the one-piece ones…I wonder if I should ask Yukari-chan for one last opinion. Although…I don't really exercise, so I probably wouldn't look very good standing next to her…" with this Fuuka grabs a handful of her belly. There's nothing wrong with it but I suppose it isn't as toned as Yukari's or mine. "Our leader is so slim and fit too…am I really the same age as those two…?" she sighs heavily. "Oh, right! I have just the thing!" Fuuka jumps up and opens a package that was sitting in the corner of her room.
"The low-frequency waist slimmer pad I bought form Tanaka's show!" President Tanaka? Don't some of his products not work? "It said online it was very effective for its price, so if it helps even a little before we leave…now let's see…how do I turn this on…?" It makes a weird beeping noise.
"Eek…! No…This…" she giggles. I guess she's ticklish. "I-It tickles!" she bursts into more laughter. "What am I gonna do?" and even more laughter. The belt keeps making the vibration noises and she's still giggling. "Wh-Wh-why won't it come off…?" more laughter "nooo…!"
Suddenly there's a knock on the door. "Yamagishi," oh it's Mitsuru… "May I bother you for a second?"
"Oh...It's Mitsuru-senpai-" more breathless laughter. "I-I have to answer the door…! Yes! I'm…I'm…" another short laugh. "coming!" and the vibrating starts again.
"Oh," I burst out laughing. "Um…did I disturb you?" if anyone sounds disturbed it's Mitsuru.
'N-no, not at-" more giggling. "No, not at all…" and even more and the vibration keeps going.
"It's…not that important. Um, never mind, just…carry on." I laugh even harder when the sounds of Mitsuru's heels are faster than usual. I could only imagine what she must be thinking right now.
"Oh, senpai…!" another giggle. "I-Is this…what it means…to train…your abs…?" More laughter. "Someone help!" and even more laughter. The recording end there and I can't help snickering.
I go ahead and watch the next one.
08/13/2009 22:41:19 Beginning playback
Oh…this is…Akihiko room? It must be considering he's the one pacing around. He looks upset about something…
"Damn it…I'm still not over that business in Yakushima…Is my way with girls really no better than Junpei's…? How could they treat me the same as his lame pickup lines…?" He must be mad about Operation: Babe hunt. Akihiko picks up a magazine from his desk and starts flipping through it.
"Are you able to make others laugh with a well-timed joke?" Is that some sort of dating magazine? He's reading a dating magazine? "Well…I can't think of many examples, but I can do that much at least… "Careful: Making others laugh and being laughed at are two entirely different things!"…" he sighs before flipping a page. " "When people speak to you, do you try to respond with pure logic and reason? This is a common mistake with inarticulate men. Try to consider what the other part is feeling.".." another sigh. "Tch…I gotta admit, they've got a point…!" he flips another page.
"… "Try testing yourself by speaking as if you're asking a female friend or co-worker to your favorite store. The two most important things are to smile, and have a good sense of humor!"…H-Hey there!" I cringe. "What great timing to see you here! Good one!" Oh…you…should just stick to boxing Akihiko. "I'm going to the Beef Bowl place," his voice cracks and I wince again. "wanna come with…? Humor…Humor… Y'know, the Beef Bowl place…Hey…M-Maybe we could "meet" up there…!" What the hell? He scowls and throws the book against the wall.
"What am I, the Chairman?" I chuckle. "That's it! Screw this!" he starts pounding on the boxing bag in his room with great force. The recording ends there. I go ahead and watch the next recording.
09/06/2009 19:10:36 Beginning playback
It's the lounge…hm? Shinjiro and Koromaru are watching TV.
"-You, too, can follow along on page 39 of this month's issue. Today we're making spicy pepper pasta. It's a great dish to keep your energy up though the summer heat." He's watching a cooking show? That does explain how he could make all those dishes so well. He probably practices. "The key ingredient is green cayenne pepper. Remember to remove the seeds first! After that, we'll prepare some kep broth. You'll need a pasta cooker about this size, and…"
"Pasta cooker…do we have one here…?"
Koromaru barks while tilting his head in confusion.
A sigh comes from right out the door. "It's still pretty hot." Is that Fuuka?
"Humans require energy to maintain a certain external temperature." It's Aeon?
"Aw crap…!" Shinjiro jumps in the couch and pretends to be sleeping. Why would he do that?
Koromaru barks again watching Shinjiro.
The door opens and Fuuka and Aeon come in.
Shinjiro still has his magazine in his hands though…
"We're back."
Koromaru barks twice I guess in greeting.
"We're home, Koro-chan!" she pets Koromaru. "Oh…shh! We should be quiet. It looks like Shinjiro-senpai's asleep…" …wouldn't it have made more sense to change the channel?
Koromaru barks again looking up at Aeon.
"Koromaru says that "Shinjiro-san is not asleep."…" …Ouch. Aeon just blew Shinjiro's cover…
"Huh? Senpai's magazine…it's the monthly guide to the "Family Cooking" show…" Shinjiro probably wants to fall in a hole at this point…I know I would. "Does Shinjiro-senpai enjoy cooking shows..? Oh, that's a new issue…I didn't know this month's was out."
Koromaru barks again.
"Koromaru's saying that "Shinjiro-san frequently watches programs like…"." Aeon really needs to learn restraint.
"Uhh, it's okay Aeon! C'mon let's go." Fuuka drags Aeon away, the latter looking confused as to why.
After the two of them leave Shinjiro sits up with a heavy sigh. "Damn it. I forgot he understands dog talk…"
Koromaru whines.
"Ahh, don't sweat it. It ain't your fault." He gives Koromaru a small smile. "Don't worry, boy…Next time, I'll make you something too, Koro-chan."
Koromaru barks happily in response and the recording ends.
It's getting late, but I have nothing else to do so I watch the next one.
09/20/2009 01:13:41 Beginning playback
….what the? My room? …wait…the 20th? Isn't that when Igor had me in that mini-coma? I look at myself sleeping…at least it looks comforting. I'm not tossing or turning. My door suddenly opens and Aeon creeps in. …What the hell? He knows better!
"It took me 92 seconds to unlock the door…my time has improved." He walks over to me lying in the bed and sits beside it. The sleep on my side most of the time and I'm facing him, however I don't stir when he leans over me gazing into my face. "Her surface body temperature is 98.7 degrees…her fever is gone now. …hopefully she'll make a full recovery by morning. The pillow I froze will not be necessary." my eyes widen what the hell had he considered "taking care" of me? He looks around. "If I stay too long I'll be caught and will receive another lecture." he looks back down at me. "Everyone's worried about you…" He brushes some hair out of my face before looking towards the door. He clearly doesn't want to leave, he looks from the door back to me before murmuring. "…Sunrise shouldn't occur for another four hours and twelve minutes…" he's silent for another few moments. "I would only need to sneak out again right before morning. I…I want to stay by her side…for just a little longer." He looked down at me then and as his eyes watch my face for any change the recording ends. Oh…so…it was him…
I go ahead and watch the next recording.
09/28/2009 00:45:12 Beginning playback
There's even one in Mitsuru's room? Or…I think it's Mitsuru's room. Considering the expensive furniture and large Plasma I'm pretty sure it is. The shower is running though. Mitsuru comes out covered with a pink towel.
"Phew…" she sits on the sofa still only wearing the bath towel. "Whoops…I've gotten used to walking around without my bathrobe lately. Not a very good habit to fall into…Well…I'm not at home, so I suppose being a little lax won't hurt." she picks up a magazine on her desk and starts flipping through it. "This fashion magazine…I saw Takeba buying one, so I thought I'd pick one up myself, but…" she keeps flipping through it. " "This one-piece is beloved by all, including friends, boyfriends, and boyfriends' friends…alluring yet prudish: the ultimate combination…" …What are they talking about? I don't follow fashion myself…I usually just wear whatever the family stylist selects for me."
So those boots weren't her idea? If I were her I'd of point blank refused the boots. Those things look painful. Though I have to admit the rest of her clothing is gorgeous. She flips through the magazine some more. " "Cute" clothes, huh…? W-well…I do kind of want to try this…pink one…" she laughs. "Not that I'd be able to pull it off…" …huh. I wonder what they look like."I'm not like Takeba. I should be careful to remember the distinction between clothes I want to wear, and clothes I can wear." she sneezes. "I knew this was a bad habit…it's a good way to catch a cold. I should get some rest…I'll have to wake up early again tomorrow." she yawns. With that she gets up and walks to bed…leaving her towel on the couch. …her damn skin really is flawless. "Now which pajamas should I wear tonight…?" The recording ends there and there are apparently no new recordings. I head back downstairs…we should go to Tartarus tonight.
Tartarus…
This is mostly just a quick run to complete Theo's requests. I take Mitsuru, Akihiko and Yukari with me.
I ended up completing more of Theo's requests and he gave me…a bus stop sign? Do I even want to know why? I give him the latest old document and receive 5 single beads…I suppose these will only fully heal one person. I then fuse Take-Minakata, Oumitsunu, and Mothman (who I found in Tartarus) to create Taraka of the Hermit Arcana. She's a female with something that looks like Skull for armor and has 4 arms each holding a sword. Thanks to my bond with Saori she becomes very powerful. I fuse Saki Mitama, Rangda, and Orobas to create Titania who is powered by my bond with Yukari. She's a fairy with a green dress with golden markings and white wings. I then fuse Samael and Naga Raja to create Dionysus. It's a man with rainbow colored skin wearing just underwear and a cloak. …weird. He's powered by my link with Shinjiro. I then fuse Nata Taishi, and Narcissus to create King Frost. It looks like a cute snowman with a wig and crown…though it's huge. He's powered by my link with Hidetoshi making him extremely powerful. That done I extract Samael, Naga Raja and Nata Taishi back from the compendium. I fused Rangda and Clotho to create Kingu. A man's head with wings coming out of the ears with the man's torso attached to some serpent like body. He was golden, blue, green and his feathers were white. It was very…strange he was strengthened by my bond with Hidetoshi. I then fused Orobas, Ganga, and Flauros to create Oukuninushi a warrior in all white who is strengthened by my bond with Bebe. I fused Samael and Vasuki to create Succubus, a female demon similar to Lilim but older and wearing black, due to the strength of my bond with Tanaka she ends up being very powerful. I fuse Oukuninushi with Naga Raja and create Ubelluris of the hanged Arcana. It's a giant rock man and is powered by my bond with Maiko.
Finished with my fusions and requests I go ahead and leave Tartarus.
Gekkoukan High School, Front Gate…
"Hey, how's it going?" Junpei runs up to me. Huh. I haven't seen him lately.
"I'm fine." He nods.
"I feel great! Let's OWN the next Shadow and make the world a better place, huh?" He's awfully eager.
…Ah…Shinjiro's watch. I need to find it…but where could it be? I have no doubt he already checked the back alleys and the like…maybe I could ask Officer Kurosawa if anyone found it. It's a long shot but…with that the two of us head to class.
Paulownia Mall, Police Station…
"Hey. Officer Kurosawa."
He nods. "I got some new stuff in if you want to take a look." Oh. That's good.
"Um…I was wondering if you someone had turned in a missing pocket watch?"
"Old pocket watch…? Wait…today has to be your lucky day." he has it? "Is this it?" he gives me an pocket watch…it looks almost new, pretty much like his knife. He takes really good care of his things…
With that I go ahead and sell all my junk equipment and buy some new stuff that done I head back to school to the Home Economics Room.
Gekkoukan High School, Home Economics Room…
"If I give my best effort, zis will come out great!" Bebe talks to himself while we're sewing. "Hmm…zat cheap material 'as been transformed! Wizout you 'elp…I would probably be back 'ome already…but because of you, Minako-sama, I was able to finish zis kimono!
"Just a bit more!" I'm almost finished as well.
"Arigatou! Zank you for your kind words! I can forget about my aches and pains now!" He's really happy. "By ze way, Minako-sama…I 'ave met many people in Nihon…but, you are ze best tomodachi I've 'ere! If my aunt was still alive…I would tell her about ze wonderful friend I'ave made…Subarashii! I'm sure my aunt would 'ave liked you…" he nods and I feel my inner strength increase. "Yosh! Now, I will put ze final touches on zis kimono! I am so tired zat I zink I see my aunt! Zis is ze last part…I can't give up! Ready, set…Go!
It took a while…but my scarf is finally finished.
"Minako-sama…ze scarf is so beautiful…" it is…it's the same color as the butterfly mask and has the same texture. "Subarashii, I can feel your warmth from it…is zat scarf a present for someone?" …Yeah. I think…I'll give it to Shinjiro. "Urayamashii…I envy ze guy who gets it. It is ze greatest present. Urayamashii…I…" he takes a deep breath. "I shall return, zat I promise. I promize zat…to you. So…" he falls silent.
"Bebe?"
He just smiles at me as he finishes working on his kimono. I decide to go ahead and start on another scarf this one black. We spend the rest of the day working in silence.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Where have you been?" Akihiko asks when I walk in.
"Just fashion club."
He nods. "Next Sunday is most likely the day…It's nothing to worry about, though. I'm sure we'll be fine." Yeah…just four more days.
"Well, you can count on me!" Huh? What's with Junpei's attitude?
"Wait a minute…Is it just me, or does Iori actually sound serious for a change?" Mitsuru chuckles.
"Hey, what's that s'posed to mean?" Mitsuru doesn't answer and I walk over to Shinjiro.
"Shinjiro…Here." I hold out the watch to him. He looks at it stunned for a moment.
"That's…! …hey…come with me, okay?"
"Sure."
"Thanks."
Naganaki Shrine…
No one's here tonight…
"Where did you find this?"
"Officer Kurosawa had it at the police station."
"I see…" he plays with it. "I thought I'd be fine if I never saw this again…but I never imagined that you of all people would bring it to me. This isn't really to pay you back, but I want you to have this." he takes out a leather watch and hands it to me. I take it and place it on my wrist…I could use a watch. "I was hesitating about if I should give it to you or not."
He looks over at my wrist with the watch on it with. "I thought it'd look good on you…"
"Thanks."
He nods looking down at his feet as if embarrassed. "…Look after Aki. …You know he's an idiot." …So he's leaving SEES? But why? "You remember the story about the first fight we ever had? It was because…I stole a doll from a toy store. Aki's sister couldn't make any friends. I stole it because I thought it'd make her happy. Aki found out about it and beat the crap outta me…and he was crying the whole time. Afterwards, we both went back to the store to return it…and to apologize for what I did. The toy store's owner smacked us both." he chuckles. "…He hasn't changed at all from back then. He's stupid, honest, proud, kind…and a crybaby. …That's why someone needs to be by his side."
"We'll be by his side." We were the Freaks Dorm after all. Our own little family.
He nods. "I'll be counting on all of you." he looks somewhat relieved at that. "I ain't worried at all, because I know you're with him. I'm leaving the rest to you." I want to ask where he's going but…I don't want to ruin the moment. Besides I have the feeling that this is something that he has to do…odd before I wouldn't have thought twice about questioning him.
Thou art I…
And I am Thou…
Thou hast established a genuine bond…
The innermost power of the Moon Arcana hath been set free
We bestow upon thee the ability to create Sandalphon, the ultimate form of the Moon Arcana…
And there's the warmth again…spreading throughout me. Though…even though my heart's warm I feel sorrow. Why is he leaving? "The wind's staring to pick up…I kinda want to stay here a little longer if we can, but…aren't you cold?" I shiver, I am…just a little bit. "Hey, you're gonna catch something. C'mere…" I sit closer to him and he gives me his coat. I can't help but inhale and be comforted…it smells a bit like spices and ramen…a somewhat odd mixture but…its comforting. I sit closer to him, close enough that our legs touch and he begins to tell me about himself and Akihiko. How they met…how they became friends…he even tells me about the time that he, Akihiko and Mitsuru were SEES. He keeps talking and his words wash over me like a lullaby.
"Are you sleeping?"
Hm? My eyes flutter open, I'm resting against something warm…oh. I look up at Shinjiro who has a small smile on his face. Was I asleep long?
"I…"
"It's late…" I look around…it's already the Dark Hour…I must've slept for a while… "We should get going." I wonder why he didn't wake me earlier?
I nod slowly and he stands offering me his hand. I take it and the two of us walk to the dorm together. His hand is really warm and I don't let go until we go to our separate rooms.
10/1/09
After School,
I go ahead and work a Be Blue for the rest of the day. One the way back to the dorm I walk into Shinjiro. We talk about the upcoming operation on the way there but…he seems…distracted. …maybe I should give him some time alone. I walk over to Ken.
"Hey…Ken. Do you want to go eat?" He nods excitedly before trying to cover it up with a somber expression. I hold my laughter and the two of us head for Wakatusu.
Iwatodai Strip Mall, Wakatusu Restaurant…
Ken pokes at his food. "I've been wondering about this for a while now, but the rice here is always a little dry. Oh…could it be because we always come here so late? If the rice was cooked around noon, I guess there's nothing to be done about it…"
"We could come earlier. I don't mind."
"Th-that's all right!" What's with his reaction? "Oh, um, what I mean is…I'm just being shy. …I mean, you should be, um…you should be going out and doing fun stuff with your friends, not spending time with me…" first Shinjiro and now him. I do spend time with my friends or have they completely failed to realize that? "I'm just happy if you have dinner with me like this once in a while…" he blushes a little. "Oh, was that…? There's something you put in that makes rice taste better when you cook it…"
"Honey?"
"Ah, that's it! It's so strange that honey makes rice taste better." he looks happy. "You know how people say that love makes food taste better? It supposedly means that careful preparation makes for better results. And, staying true to the basics is what's most important."
…I wonder where he learned that. "Did you mom teach you that?"
"Oh, no…" he looks down. Damn…I feel like an ass now. "Um…it's from a manga." Really? He looks embarrassed to admit he was reading manga for some reason.
"You…don't read mangas, right?" Why wouldn't I?
"I read a lot of them actually."
"Huh? Really? B-But, aren't you an adult?" …he probably doesn't need to know about the adults only manga…. "And you're a girl, too…" …okay he should have at least heard of shoujo!
I shrug. "I like them."
"I didn't know that, Minako-san. Um…I thought that you were a very strong person, so…" strong people can't read manga? He laughs. "…I-I read them, too. Um, there's this really cool manga published in this monthly magazine. The main character's an alien, and he takes on the shapes of people and animals to fight the bad guys…" he smiles "There's all these explosions and the battles are really intense. Like, mountains blow up and maps change. And then, there was this village that was flooded by a dam that was built, and the dam got blown up…and when the water went away, someone was alive in there, but the story ended before you knew if it was a bad guy. And, and, the hero is really cool and strong!" He's overflowing with excitement now. "He can defeat his enemies in a single-" he cuts himself off the smile sliding off his face a frown replacing it.
"Tell me more…"
"Um, well…" he looks pale for some reason. "I…shouldn't read stuff like that, huh? …It's stupid."
"That's not true Ken." He's just a kid…
He's silent for a long time. "Oh…thanks for the food. Thank you very much…for coming here with me tonight." I sigh inwardly. He's back to be overly formal now. My inner strength increases but I don't feel good about it. "Minako-san, why do you…"
"Hm?"
"No…it's nothing…" I frown. What is with these guys cutting off their sentences! Urgh! With that we finish dinner quickly and head back to the dorm. On my way back to bed I remember Theo's request.
"Aeon…" Aeon was sitting with the others in the lounge. "Do you have any oil?"
"Oil…wait a moment." he gets up and leaves…it doesn't take him long to return and he comes back with a small jar. "Does you need more?"
I shake my head. "No…this'll be enough." with that I head for Paulownia Mall to drop it off.
I hand it to Theo and he…did he just drink it! Is he crazy? I stare at him in shock as he hands over a weapon for Aeon. …this is just…insanity. Saying goodbye to him and Igor I head back to the dorm and go straight to bed.
10/2/09
Yukari asks if I want to hang out after school I might as well…
After School
Iwatodai, Strip Mall…
Yay! We're going out to eat I take one step towards Duck Duck Burger when Yukari grabs me by the sleeve shaking her head. "Won't do. It's fattening." Oh come on! We're going to work it off in 2 days anyways!
"But-"
"No." I sulk. This sucks.
"The sweets shop…is also fattening…Ramen, beef bowl…" she sighs. "Everything around here is fattening!" Everything around here is good. "ugh! It's getting to the point that I'm starting to feel a bit…" she smiles brightly. "I think I'm gonna buy that DVD that helps you lose weight while dancing!" Great…so can we go to Duck now? "Have you heard about it? I've heard that it's on top of the sales charts right now. Oh, but do you think people downstairs will hear? I think you have to jump around and stuff…" we're walking to my immense sorrow away from Duck. And- what…is that a car? Idiot! Why is it going so fast-! I shove Yukari out of the way. SHIT! Fucking bastard didn't even stop! I rub my palm lightly. Urgh. Fantastic. Well…it could have been worst.
"Ah…" Yukari looks somewhat stunned. "Th…anks…" I nod. "That was scary…"
"Watch where you're going!" Urgh. If I hadn't pushed her…
"Yeah…Oh…Minako, you're hurt…" I shrug.
"It's not that big of a deal." all I did was skin my palm a little. I squint and there's a trace amount of blood. No biggie.
"Why…why'd you help me?" What the fuck? Why the hell is she yelling at me? "What were you gonna do if you died?"
"So it's okay if you end up road kill?"
"That's not what I meant! I mean…I mean, you're…you're our leader!" I just sigh. "And…" her voice softens. "What would I do if you died?" Keep living? "I'm tired of all this! I'm sick of all the people around me dying!" she looks ready to cry.
"I skinned my palm. Last time I checked that's a pretty nonfatal injury."
She bites her lip though her eyes still shining I feel my inner strength increase. "I'm…sorry. You saved me…" she laughs dryly. "I keep bombarding you with all this personal stuff all the time. …Sorry, I'm a little confused…" she laughs again. "I'm a kid, aren't I…" …would Ken have had a similar reaction? Probably. "I'm…gonna head back…Sorry…" she runs off.
Okay then. I head for Be Blue and work. Afterwards I call Mitsuru and tell her I won't make it back to the dorm until late. I head for Escapade to talk to Mutatsu our bond grows somewhat stronger but my inner strength doesn't increase.
10/3/09
Gekkoukan High School, Front Gate…
Aeon approaches me as I walk to class. "I have noticed that The Lost are appearing more frequently and in greater numbers."
"Why though?"
"I do not know. However we should focus on our main goal, eliminating the full moon Shadows. Hopefully with all of them eliminated our answer will become clear. …Tomorrow is the full moon. Be sure to prepare Minako-chan…as always,, I will be by your side in combat." with that we head to class.
After School…
For a lack of anything else to do I went to the movies…it's pretty boring by myself so I choose something educational. At least I'll learn something…after the movie is over I head back to the dorm.
Dorm, 1st floor lounge…
"…Hi, how was your day?" Fuuka greets me when I come in. "Tomorrow, the moon will be full. I'm sure a Shadow will appear, so please be ready." I nod. Luckily I had already prepared for this. …Shinjiro meets my eyes once before looking away. He doesn't look so unapproachable today at least. …Should I tell him? I bite my lip as I walk over to him…how do you tell someone you love them anyways?
"Shinjiro…"
"It's okay…I feel better after our talk…take care of them. I believe in you."
"Can…we talk Shinjiro-senpai?"
He frowns. "Shouldn't you be with the others…? I can't give you anything or do anything for you." …still…
"I just want to talk with you."
With that we spend several moments staring at each other in silence. ..How can I bring it up?
"…You can stare at me like that all day. I've got nothing for you." I shake my head. That's not it…but…I can't… "Haven't you wasted enough time on me? What more do you want?" is he angry? But…why?
"I love you." Oh. …I just said that out loud? …Yeah. It felt good. His eyes widen and it's somewhat comical. I've never seen that facial expression before. "I love you Shinjiro-senpai." My voice is firmer now, resolved. I do love him…I want him to know that.
"D-Don't tease me like that!" …If I wanted to tease him it certainly wouldn't be with that!
"I'm not teasing you."
"I mean, why just blurt out something like that? Here, of all places…?" …he's got a point…this was not the best place for a private conversation. Granted no one else in SEES seems to have noticed yet but eventually someone would.
"Look come to my room." We could discuss it in private.
"I-I can't do that." Huh? Why? Oh. …It must sound like I'm propositioning him… "I mean, you're…well, people are gonna get the wrong idea." Who's going to get the wrong idea? The only people in here are SEES members. That said…his room is closer…
"Let's go to yours then." I never saw the inside of his room anyway.
"Y-You moron. I…I ain't a nice guy. I can't let you in my room. …Don't you get it?"
I nod. "I know what I'm saying." I do, I should be more apprehensive but I'm not. There's no shame in being with someone you love.
"No way. It's not gonna happen." Ouch. Am I repulsive to him or something? I feel myself growing irritated.
"Why not? Do I smell?"
"What? No-"
"So you just think I'm ugly then-!" my voice rises.
"No! It's not-!"
"So what is it?
"Look, you need to watch yourself. Don't bother with someone like me." Oh. So it was a "It's not you it's me?" thing?
"I still love you." It's odd how saying that makes me feel so happy. It's true…and I'm happy about it. And damn him for doubting it!
"Idiot…" he sighs before walking up the stairs. Uh. Feeling a little dejected I stand there before he turns at the foot of the stairs. "You changed your mind?" Huh?
"N-No way!" I follow him upstairs.
Shinjiro's Room…
…It's rather bare. There's just a box of his belonging on his desk and his bed is made up. Other than that the room doesn't look like anyone lived in here…
"….So? Happy now?" He enters the door behind me closing it. "You're always pushing me around all the time…" Okay…so maybe I was a little pushy but- "You're just gonna ignore what I want, huh?" he sighs before looking me over. "Yeah, well two can play that game."
Before I can ask what does that mean he embraces me tightly. "This is all your fault, you know. I'm all confused." his breath tickles my ear, he's so warm that I never want to let him go. "You're all I can think about, day and night. Damn it this isn't how it's supposed to be…" he suddenly lets me go.
"You get it, right? Go back to your room." He sits on the bed expecting me to go out the door. Wait…does that mean he loves me too? Then why the hell didn't he just say- argh! Men! "If you don't go now, you're not gonna get another chance."
I walk to the door and lock it. "I'm not leaving." He looks at me and sighs again. "You're a real piece of work you know that…? I'm gonna make myself clear…I ain't holding back any more. I nod and walk over to him…hesitantly I sit on the bed.
"I love you Shinjiro." I wait for an averse reaction but instead I get a smile and a chuckle.
"You really are bossy…" he leans forward and kisses me.
10/4/09
Tonight is the day the full moon Shadow is too appear. When I open my eyes I realize I'm still in Shinjiro's bed. I look up and he's looking down at me with such a sad expression.
"Shinjiro? Is something wrong?"
"No…are you alright?" I'm a little sore but I've had worst. It's a nice kind of soreness anyways, it reminds me of the time I spent in his arms. Ugh. I'm turning into a sappy romantic aren't I?
"I'm fine." I smirk at him. "Want a second round?" He arches a brow before leaning down to capture my lips again.
"We really should save our energy for fighting the Shadow." he murmurs after ending the kiss.
"Is it okay then? If I stay here with you?"
"Not too long…the others might start looking for you soon." I nod and lay back in his arms. I don't think I ever want to leave them.
A hour later I reluctantly leave his room, his sad eyes still in my memory. …He hadn't regretted last night had he? No…that look has been in his eyes for weeks. I can't help but worry as I prepare.
Dark Hour, Dorm Command Room…
Fuuka as usual is looking for the latest Shadow. Everyone is here but Shinjiro and Ken…where did they go?
"I've located the target…It's in the plaza in front of Iwatodai Station!"
"This will be the 10th…only a few left, but let's worry about them one at a time." That would be easier Chairman if they didn't constantly show up in damn packs.
"…Assuming they come one at a time." Yukari giggles. "Just kidding."
"…Yukari-chan, how did you know? I sense two of them!" And thanks for jinxing us Yukari. We really needed that.
"Are you serious? Me and my big mouth!" Just for that you're in the party that's fighting first.
"…Where's Shinji?" Akihiko is just as confused as I am it seems.
"He just notified me that he'll meet up with you later." oh…well…he could have told us to our faces at least. "I didn't ask any questions." So where the hell is Ken?
"…Figures. He's always played by his own rules."
"It's okay. At least he's coming, right?" pretty rich coming from Mr. get myself captured.
"Look who's talking."
"H-Hey, last time wasn't my fault! I was tied up!" Whatever Junpei. "Not this time, though. I'm ready and rarin' to go!"
"By the way…where's Ken?"
"Hey Junpei, go get him. That'll be your punishment for last time." Yukari smirks at Junpei while saying this.
"Punishment…? What is this, kindergarten?"
"Just go get him Junpei." I snap.
Junpei sighs. "That little shit is more trouble than he's worth." he walks off.
"We should go. I'll decide who's in the main fighting party when we get there."
"Let's go, then!" Akihiko nods and we all head out.
Iwatodai Strip Mall…
We can see the Shadows in the distance…they're not far from us.
"There they are! This is the way we go to school! We've gotta protect this place…" Yukari starts getting out her equipment.
"It seems like they've been waiting for us…" Fuuka frowns. I'm not liking this. The Shadows decide to wait for us to show up and eliminate them? …This can't be that simple! With that Junpei finally reaches us.
"…Where's Amada?"
Junpei shrugs. "He wasn't in his room, so who knows…"
"Damn it, Shinji…where are you?"
"Um, I think we should hurry…they look like they're about to make their move."
"Fine. Let's get going. Akihiko, Aeon, Yukari with me." I'm not too thrilled with the two of them being weak to electric attacks but without Ken we need a healer.
"I'll keep you informed! Please be careful!"
Great…one Shadow seems to be a woman on top of a rose bouquet…she's surrounded by some part of a gate? I think…with a weird 3 ring circling her head…she's wearing a white dress too. It lifts up the rose and the other Shadow a sort of dog like robot but gold dissolves into a sort of pink shiny mist with flower petals everywhere. What the hell?
"I don't detect the Fortune one anymore! The Strength one must have done something! You can't attack it right now…Concentrate on the one whose Arcana is Strength!"
Alrighty then. I open up with a group attack boost spell Akihiko lowers its stats Aeon boosts my defense and Yukari attacks. What the fuck? Did the damn thing use a roulette? What the hell?
"That wheel's effects depend on where it stops. Red is bad luck…I hope it doesn't come up!"
…As a result of the roulette the enemy is fear stricken.
[I can deal with this…]
Huh? Who are you?
[I am Succubus little girl. My Ghastly Wail ability will do nicely.]
Okay.
I switch to her and go ahead and use it. I mean what's to lose?
Succubus screams loudly and the Strength Shadow screams holding its head and explodes into Goo. …Ew…that…was brutal.
Succubus chuckles. [Ah. Nothing as fun as a one hit kill!]
"Um, I detect Fortune again! So you can attack that one now!"
I see the others looking at me with respect before we focus on the Fortune one. Even Fuuka sounded a little shocked. Akihiko lowers its stats while the rest of us attack it. That damn thing uses the wheel of fortune again but it lands on red allowing the thing to heal itself. Huh it used that powerful group wind spell…unfortunately for the Shadow it barely has any effect on us and we beat the crap out of it.
"Good job, everyone." Fuuka congratulates us when we come back.
"That was rather quick." I sigh. "Rather easy too."
Fuuka smiles. "You all were very impressive!"
"Though Strega did not interfere this time." leave it to Aeon to notice that.
"It must be because we have Chidori." Yukari's awfully happy about that. "Anyway, I'm glad everything went well. But what happened to Shinjiro-senpai and Ken?" …I wonder that myself. Granted the battle went by so fast that they really didn't have any time to get her but…
"The Chairman doesn't seem to be too concerned, so he went home."
"Yamagishi, where are those two?"
"I'm sorry, I haven't been able to locate them yet."
"Let's return to the dorm, and then go from there."
Akihiko looks pained about something. What's wrong with him?
"…Akihiko are you listening?"
"Today is…October 4th, huh…" and what's so special about October 4th?
"And…?" I prod.
"Just go back without me. I'm gonna go look for them for a while." with that he runs off.
"Huh. Wonder what that was about…"
"Akihiko…" Mitsuru murmurs. With that we head back to the dorm.
Dorm, Command Room…
I sigh lounging on one of the seats. What the hell is with those three today?
"Why was Akihiko-san acting so weird?" Junpei turns to me and I shrug. "What's so special about October 4th?"
"October the 4th…" Mitsuru gasps. "That's right! I was so caught up in the operation that I didn't realize it! This is the day Amada's mother was killed!" Wait…what?
"You serious?"
"Yamagishi, I need you to find the two of them immediately. There's a good chance that they're together. Akihiko must have already realized that…"
"I-I understand." with that Fuuka summons Lucia and begins searching.
Why the rush?
"What's going on?" Yukari looks at Mitsuru in confusion.
"Although her death was officially listed as an accident…we're the ones who killed Amada's mother."
…wait that is what all the guilty looks were for? And why did they kill her?
"What…?"
"It was two years ago, when we were pursuing an unusual Shadow that had escaped into the city. We were in a residential area, but the Shadow was all we were thinking about…Aragaki was still new, and he momentarily lost control of his power…unfortunately, there was a casualty: Amada's mother."
"No way…are you shittin' me?" Junpei shakes his head in disbelief.
"Then, to Ken-kun, senpai is…" …so what Ken wants to kill Shinjiro…and given Shinjiro's behavior lately…he's going to let Ken take his revenge. But…revenge isn't going to bring Ken's mother back to life…surely Ken realizes this?
"Amada volunteered to join us. But, now that I think about it…"
"I found them!" about god damn time! "They're at Tatsumi Port Island! They're together, and another Persona-user is nearby…"
"Akihiko?"
"No...it's…It's a member of Strega!"
"Shit!" I get up and start running. I really don't need to hear anymore.
"Arisato! Wait!"
I don't stop I have to get there, I run and just keep running the only thought going through my mind is that I have to get there before something bad happens.
Was that? A gunshot? SHTI! I run faster but I'm still too far these damn stairs! …another one? They can't both be! I reach the corner when there's a third gunshot and the only thing I see when I turn the corner is both Ken and Shinjiro covered in blood.
End Chapter 13
Answering Reviews Time:
cartoon moomba : Hm…I suppose so. Oh well. Hopefully she'll have developed in the next few chapters.
Hamujiro: Yes I love Hidetoshi too.
Ichigo Rocks: Thanks for the encouragement! Alas…Shinji's fate might not be too bright. (I played the original P3 and got rather attached to his death scene.)
XxXTwilight-SinXxX : Yup just 3 more months to go! Whoot! Of course then I have another whole year to go but XD
Kisdota-The Freak Gamer : Thanks I don't mind short reviews! I'm happy with people liking my story! ^_^