A/N – There's a little surprise in this chapter, that I've been planning for quite a while.
Reviews:
- Winter Arctica. Thank you for the Review. I wanted to flesh out the idea of having the appraiser being someone more impactful, in this case their parents. Hope you liked it.
30/12/2009
Minako's POV
A couple days had passed, and my sleep had been considerably better with sleeping in Yukari's room. She had been... accommodating to my stay. Other than getting better sleep, I had been spending time with Rio-san and Yuko-san and spending time with Maiko and getting her reunited with her family and solving their little issue. It's a shame she'll be moving away with her Mother. I had also spent time with Bunkichi-sama and Mitsuko-sama at the bookstore. Not ignoring my friends at the Dorm, I had spent time with Sanada-senpai, learning about his sister Miki and what happened to her. I've also been spending time with Ken-kun and Junpei. Learning about Junpei's drunk abuse father and helping him past it, while breaking Ken-kun out of his shell. However, as the days passed there was no news on if Aigis was going to be alright or not? I'm starting to worry about her. She has to be okay, doesn't she!?
Presently, Yukari and I went into the shower after last night's... Activities, and had gotten changed into warmer clothes, since the new year grew near.
Now we were in the lounge chatting with Fuuka and Ken-kun. Since I had recovered enough, Yukari had let me cook something for dinner.
I think Yukari and the others were getting tired of takeaway food. I better get started then.
As I drifted towards the kitchen to make dinner I heard Mitsuru and Onii-chan come back in from whatever they were doing outside.
They have been acting strangely the last couple of days. Whenever Mitsuru got a message, I saw that her and Onii-chan would tense up. Then they would say something like they need to check something in the Operations room. Once I tried to follow them and listen to try and find out what they are up to, but in the end, I ended getting caught by Mitsuru and scolded.
Guess I'm not that quiet in the real world than during the dark hour or in Tartarus.
Now though they look happy, as if a lot of weight was lifted from their shoulders, Mitsuru. Well whatever it is I'm glad it happened.
Earlier
Minato's POV
Suru and I were walking around the Iwatodai Strip Mall and chatting to each other. I had finally convinced her to go with me to Wild Duck Burger and somehow got her used to not using utensils. Eventually we went to the Cinema and watched this cheesy romantic film. Somehow Suru enjoyed it. Seeing that smile was breath taking.
We were walking out of the Cinema and sat down on a bench when we both saw the one person we didn't want to meet.
Him
Suru immediately held me back, so I wouldn't rip his head off his shoulders.
"I see that you were having a little 'date' with that mongrel. Honestly, I thought you were above such people. Though I guess not, since you stay in the dorm. No matter, when I marry you, the last thing on your mind will be your so-called friends." Mitsuo's Father said as he gradually walked over towards us.
Suru pulled me behind her to stop me from charging at him.
That bastard.
"Do you really expect, Mitsuru to marry you, after everything you did to my sister." I growled out.
"You really want to bring up that whore. My darling Mitsuru is nothing like that piece of trash. She has much more... fire inside her. I'll enjoy watching it extinguish." Mitsuo's father maniacally laughed.
I felt Suru's hand tremble as he spoke.
"Why don't you come along now, Mitsuru. I'll take care of you. More so than your poor deceased Father. Then your organisation will be mine."
He just wants to take over the Kirijo-group. He doesn't care about Mitsuru and her well-being.
"We're leaving. Let's go." Mitsuo's Father turned around, so his back was facing us. Mitsuru stood up from the bench and glared at him.
"Wait a minute. I didn't make any plans with you for today... I was busy today." Mitsuru pleaded.
"Well, my business meeting for this evening was cancelled. I'm a very busy man. You're just going to have to adjust your schedule to mine."
"I can't... I've already made plans." Suru mumbled as she gestured towards me.
Mitsuo's Father grew angrier. "Well, you can break them. I doubt you have anything more important to do than spend time with that mongrel."
I stood up as I glared at him. "Say that again and I'll rip your head off."
Mitsuo's Father recoiled in fear. "See, he's too much of a savage to be together with. Don't look so sullen. You know, this benefits you as well, don't you? I though you understand our arrangement."
He pulled Suru towards him. I was too slow to stop him.
"Now, you are to be my wife, and you are to be obedient." He sighed. "Why must you and your family always be so difficult? Well, at least your father is no longer alive. I'm relieved at that. I imagine you feel the same."
Suru recoiled and clenched her hands. "How... How could you say that!?" Suru is trembling in anger.
That's my girl.
"Looks like your marriage just got cancelled." I said as I smirked at him.
"Toto!?" Suru mumbled low enough for only me to hear.
"Be quiet you, or else you'll end up just like your parents."
This bastard. I'm going to kill him.
Suru grabbed onto my shoulder. I turned to face her and saw her determined yet calm expression. Suddenly all my anger dissipated. She stepped in front of me.
"Listen, Mitsuru... Corporate management is not child's play. No matter how smart
you are, you're still going to need my knowledge and experience. And, the Kirijo Group still needs the cooperation of my family, does it not?"
Suru deflated. "Yes, you're right."
No, don't end it like this.
"Good girl, Mitsuru. I knew you would listen to reason... Now let's go. I've made reservations for us at a luxurious restaurant!"
Suru went quiet. "No!"
That's my girl.
"What was that?" He asked.
"No, I'm going nowhere with you... I don't need you or your family." Suru said as we glared at him.
"Did you forget, you need my family to keep the Kirijo-group running into chaos."
"I don't need your family, I can handle it just fine." Suru answered as we saw him grow agitated.
"Listen, you bitch. Get this into your thick head. You need me, so it would be better if you bow down to my feet and submit like your friend's sister. She was fun to break; my son and I did a good job. I'll be glad if you put up a bit more of a fight."
Suru looked like she was struggling to control her fury, as was I. "Say. One. More. Word. About Mina." Suru stomped towards Mitsuo's Father.
"Or what? You'll cancel our marriage. Like I said, you need me."
"No, she doesn't, you are the one that needs her. Since your son has been arrested for rape and kidnapping of my sister, it'll cause a scandal when word gets out."
"And with this, you might be spending a lot time with him." Suru said as she pulled out a recording device. We both smirked as Mitsuo's Father looked terrified at the two of us.
Got you.
"W-Where did you get that?" He cried out.
"Oh, you didn't know she had that, I think it was from that man behind you." He looked behind him, and there was Grandfather with a couple of Officers.
"You see, I saw you hanging around here the past couple of days, at exactly this time. So, when we came here earlier, and saw you, we made the right choice." I said which caused his shoulders to shake angrily. At this point, he looked paranoid, looking around at everyone walking past us.
"L-Look, I'm sure we can come to some arrangement. I can drop the marriage proposal and you can have my family's support. Come on, please." He begged. We both looked on pitiful at his plea.
"I think we'll pass." Suru then pulled him towards her, grabbing his shirt. "Why don't you go and fuck your marriage proposal." Suru shoved him away and beckoned the officers that were with Grandfather walked over to us and placed him in handcuffs.
Wow! I can't actually believe 'Suru told that bastard to go and fuck his proposal. I guess I'm rubbing off on her. Still seeing his reaction when she had called the police over was priceless.
"You two did good." Grandfather congratulated as he walked over towards us. "I can't tell you how much this means to my family, Kirijo-san."
Suru shook her head. "It was nothing. I wanted to fulfil my promise, I made to Tot-uh, Arisato-kun and Arisato-san." Suru said as we both blushed at her mess up. Grandfather must have noticed Suru's mistake as he smirked.
"It's quite alright, Naoto has briefed me on your relationship. I'm proud that you have found someone to love, Minato. I must thank you for growing close to my granddaughter and grandson, they've had a rough life. I'm glad that your friends have become close to them." Grandfather said which embarrassed me a bit.
"Grandfather... There's no need for that." I said as I felt my cheeks heat up.
Suru chuckled at my reaction. "To be fair, they've been the ones taking care of us. They've been the one's keeping us going, keeping me going after... after what happened to my Father. I needed them."
Grandfather then looked apologetic. "My condolences. I'm glad that they have supported you, through your Father's passing."
"Thank you. If I can ask, I would be honoured if you would have dinner with all of us." Suru asked which caught myself and Grandfather off guard.
"What!? Suru that's a bit too much."
"Nonsense. I would be honoured to go." Grandfather said as we all heard another voice.
"I see that the matter with that rapscallion has been taking care off. Oh, Master Minato-sama. It's so good to see you." An emerging Yakushiji-san said which took me by surprise.
"Yakushiji-san, you're here too?"
"Of course. Mistress Naoto-sama and Yuuya were here to put that thing in prison."
"Wait, Naoto is here, too?"
"Well, of course. I wouldn't want to miss the party." Naoto said as she walked over towards us all.
"I'm happy that this matter has ended. I'm sure Mistress Minako-sama will be pleased with this outcome." Yakushiji-san said.
"Well about that. Mitsuru and I were thinking that it would be best to tell her. She's grown a lot since we started, she's not that scared girl anymore. She's finally grown up, I-I'm proud of her." I said.
"Yes, I might not have known her for long, but the progress she's made is frankly outstanding. I truly do believe that with all of us there with her, we can help her move past the chapter in her life." Suru explained.
Grandfather smiled cheerfully. "Yes, about that. How has she been? The report didn't say anything about the assailants. Not even their names were made public." Grandfather asked as they three looked at us curiously.
"The matter has been taken care of. The two in question have been taken care of." Suru said as Naoto and Yakushiji nodded their heads, however Grandfather still didn't look convinced.
Looks like nothing gets passed Grandfather.
Grandfather however didn't say anything. "Now I specifically remember that you were requesting me for dinner. If I may, can I ask that Yakushiji and Naoto to attend too. I'm sure that Minako wouldn't mind."
Suru smiled. "Of course, I'm sure she'll be happy." Suru said as I intertwined my fingers with hers.
"Well I have to file this report, then we'll be able to attend." Grandfather said as he smiled at us.
"Yes, charging him will come first, then Minako's dinner." Naoto nodded her head.
"Ah, yes. Mistress Minako's dishes are quite tasty as I recall." Yakushiji agreed. The three then headed towards the other Officers.
"Well I guess Mina is going to have to make a lot more then." I said outload as I rest my head on Suru's shoulder.
"I'm sorry, it just sort of slipped out."
"What part, inviting Grandfather, Naoto and Yakushiji to the dorm or tell Mitsuo's father to fuck himself." I smirked.
"Both actually. I apologise, that foul language just came out if nowhere. As with inviting your Grandfather, Shirogane and Yakushiji to dinner. I guess your foul language is rubbing off on me."
"Well trying too anyway. I guess after last night, you just needed to unwind so more and telling that piece of shit to go and fuck himself will have helped."
"To tell the truth, I did enjoy that." Suru said as we both laughed and walked back to the dorm hand in hand.
Back in The Present
Minako's POV
I was soon starting the main course for us all, when Yukari walked over. "Hey, need a hand with anything. I don't like leaving the baking to you alone." Yukari said as she stood next to me.
"Thank you. Can you drain the water from the rice, please?"
"It's no problem." Yukari said as she carefully separated the water from the rice.
"Have you seen how Mitsuru-senpai and Minato have been acting? Something is definitely up with them."
"Yeah, I was thinking the exact same thing. Before they were worried about something. Now though, they look like weight has been lifted from their shoulders."
"Yeah, I can see that."
At this point someone knocked on the door to the dorm, which took most of us by surprise.
"Hey, Mina. I hope you have made plenty, because we are going to have a few more guests." Onii-chan said as he walked towards the door.
As soon as he opened the door, I was surprised by who it was. "Grandfather, Yakushiji-san, Nao-chan!? What are you doing here?" I ran up to them and wrapped myself around Grandfather, then Yakushiji-san and then Nao-chan.
"We were in the area and we wanted to drop by. It is near the New Year after all. And besides, I wanted to check up on you."
"Oh, I've been alright. I've had everyone to keep an eye on me. Come on, sit down. I'll get you some coffee. You too Yakushiji-san, you must have been walking around for a while."
"If you insist Mistress Minako." Yakushiji-san said as he sat down on the sofa.
"Yukari, will you keep Grandfather and Yakushiji-san company while I get them their coffee."
"Mina, it's fine, I'll handle it. You sit down with Grandfather, Yakushiji-san and Naoto." Onii-chan said as Mitsuru and himself headed towards the kitchen and as everyone else either stood around the sofas or sat down.
"I see you have been doing well." Grandfather said as he gazed at everyone individually.
"Of course, Grandfather. Let me introduce my friends. This is Ken Amada, Koromaru, Fuuka Yamagishi, Junpei Iori Akihiko Sanada and Yukari Takeba." I indicated to all my friends as they all nodded their heads and as Koro-chan barked.
As soon as I said Yukari's name her hand snaked into mine.
"I see, so this is the fabled Yukari Takeba, I have heard so much about." Grandfather said as Yukari's hand tightened around mine.
I looked at Yukari and squeezed her hand. With that Yukari stood up and bowed. "Yes sir."
Grandfather stood up as did Nao-chan and Yakushiji-san. All three of them glaring at Yukari. "From what Naoto has told me, is that you have grown close to my Granddaughter. Is that correct?"
"Um, Grandfather maybe you could-"
"Let him finish, Mina." Naoto interrupted.
"Yes sir." Yukari answered flatly.
"I have also been told that you have been dating my granddaughter, without my permission is this correct?"
"Yes sir. I am in love with her. I couldn't imagine spending the rest of my life without her." Yukari said as she smiled at me.
Immediately, my cheeks light up. "Yukari..."
"She means everything to me. I will do anything to protect her." Yukari declared in front of everyone.
Grandfather and Yakushiji-san smiled. "I see." Grandfather answered. "If you keep to that, you have my permission to continue." At that Yukari and I let out a sigh of relief, as I grabbed onto Yukari's hand.
"Thank you, Grandfather."
"To be honest, I was never going to break you up. You make Minako truly happy. I was never going to break that." Grandfather said as Nao-chan giggled.
"You should have seen your faces."
"Not funny, Nao-chan." I pouted as everyone started to laugh.
At this time, Onii-chan and Mitsuru had given Grandfather, Nao-chan and Yakushiji-san their coffee. I turned and left to continue with the food for tonight, with Yukari close behind me, listening to the conversations in the lounge.
"I see that Mistress Minako has made some good friends." Yakushiji-san said.
"That she has." Mitsuru answered.
"Are you feeling alright, Yukari?" I asked her. "I know Grandfather sprung that on you. It took me by surprise for sure."
"Yeah, he was just worried about you, that's all."
"He was probably just checking if you corrupted me in anyway." I joked as she tugged on my arm.
"Well with what you did last night, I must have corrupted you in some way." Yukari said sultry as her lips grazed onto mine.
"I would have thought you two would keep yourselves separate. At least until we all left, but I guess I was wrong." Nao-chan said as I pushed Yukari away from me.
"Nao-chan! Umm... We weren't doing what it looked like. Yukari was just... Tasting the food to see if it was delicious. Isn't that right, Yukari." I said trying to convince her, but since it's Nao-chan, she obviously didn't fall for it.
"Yeah, okay. What I wanted to talk about was how you have really been doing Mina. I heard about what happened to your senpai. I'm sorry."
About Aragaki-senpai?
"I've been fine Nao-chan, besides Aragaki-senpai is watching over us now, so I want to make him proud of us." I said as I smiled at her.
Nao-chan chuckled. "Good. You are keeping your spirits up. Have you been home yet?"
I nodded my head, "Yes. I took Yukari and Fuuka with me." I clenched Yukari's hand. "I-I wasn't sure I could go through with it, but with help, I managed." I said as I smiled at Yukari.
"I see. You two complement each other perfectly from what I heard from your friends." Nao-chan said as she took off her hat. "I'm glad you're truly happy Mina." Nao-chan ran into me and wrapped her arms around me, sobbing into my chest.
"I'm sorry, I worried you after all these years." I said as I comforted her, stroking her back. Eventually, Nao-chan pulled away.
"Yukari, why don't you get to know, Grandfather and Yakushiji-san a bit more. I have something I want to show Nao-chan."
Yukari nodded her head as she walked away.
I called out to Fuuka. "Fuuka, can I ask a favour?" Fuuka walked over towards me.
"Of course, Minako-san."
"Can you watch the stove for me please, I want to show, Nao-chan something."
"Of course, I'll get Minato-kun and Kirijo-senpai to help out."
"Mina, what are you doing?" Nao-chan asked curiously.
"Come, follow me." I said as I grabbed onto her hand and led her to my room.
Once there, I told her to sit down on my bed as I got something from my cupboard. "So, I see you and Yukari have grown close, since the last time I was here."
I turned around and smiled at her. "Yeah, she's been there for me when I needed her, and I've been there for her."
Nao-chan smiled. "Good. I'm happy that someone loves you."
"Thanks, Nao-chan." I said as I happily hugged her.
"Now what did you want to show me?" Nao-chan asked as I sat down next to here.
"Here." I gave her the photo album I borrowed from my house. The front cover not giving away what's inside.
Nao-chan opened it and looked at the first photograph. "T-This... How did you get this?" Her eyes water as she skipped through the pages.
"I got it from my home, or rather our home. Since that Auntie and Uncle passed away, Yukari, Fuuka and I went to check the place out. Thankfully, nothing was taken away. This was in Mother and Father's room."
"You saved these?" Nao-chan looked at one picture in particular. The photograph had all of us together. Mother, Father, Onii-chan, Nao-chan, Grandfather, Yakushiji-san and Nao-chan's parents. Laughing together on Christmas day. The last time we were all together. It's the same photograph I showed Fuuka and Yukari.
"We've grown a lot since then. They'll be proud of us, you know." Nao-chan said as she wiped away the tears from her eyes.
"Yeah... They will be." I said as I wrapped my arms around her.
Mother... Father... I'm not backing down. I know it might be impossible, but I want to protect everyone important to me. Nao-chan, Onii-chan, Grandfather, Yakushiji my friends at Gekkoukan. I will protect everyone!
"Minako-san!? Can you come and help me?" I heard Fuuka call out from the bottom of the staircase.
"Sounds like Fuuka is having trouble. Come one Nao-chan, let's go and help." I said as I grabbed onto her hand.
"W-What... I'm helping?" Nao-chan stammered.
"Well of course, silly. Come on, you know how Onii-chan is like in the kitchen." I said as I pulled her to her feet as we left my room and helped in the kitchen.
After we all had dinner together: Grandfather, Yakushiji-san, Naoto, Onii-chan and Mitsuru pulled me to one side as Mitsuru politely 'asked' everyone to clean up after today. As we walked outside of the dorm, they told me about the real reason they were here. Mitsuru and Onii-chan stood next to me, keeping me together. They told me about what happened today, how it's finally over for Mitsuo and his family.
It's finally over, I can finally, put that behind me. After everything they've done to me, I was the one left standing. Not them.
After they made sure that I was fine, they had left, since they were needed for another case. I hugged Nao-chan and Grandfather extra hard. I can't ever repay them for what they did for me. I know we're family, but they could have left me alone like what Auntie and Uncle did. But no, they stuck by me.
I need to protect them from Mother and Father.
When we walked back into the dorm, Yukari and the others had finished cleaning up. Yukari and the others had wondered what was wrong as they saw tears trickle down my face. Immediately I leaped into Mitsuru's arms and nuzzled me face into her neck, all the while as she chuckled and patted my head. Mitsuru had one of surprise for us tonight. One that none of us saw coming.
As I had gotten changed into my pyjamas, Mitsuru said she wanted us all to go into the lounge. None of us knew what for, not even Onii-chan looked confused. Soon our questions were answered, as Mitsuru and someone familiar entered the dorm.
"A-A-Aigis!?" Everyone ran from the seats and up to her. I couldn't move, I wasn't sure if she wanted to see me, after all I did spy on her.
"I'm back, everyone. Sorry to have worried you all." Aigis said as Fuuka and Yukari hugged her.
"Man, I'm glad to see you. I was getting nervous." Junpei chuckled.
"Me too. I was fearing the worst..." Fuuka mumbled into Aigis's check.
"I'm a machine, so I can always be rebuilt. Even if I was destroyed, the programming data necessary to recreate me would still exist..." Aigis said as I clenched my fists.
"Stop talking like that!" I growled at her.
"M-Minako-san!?"
"Stop talking like that! We don't want to see you destroyed. If you die and get rebuilt, you might not be the same person I've grown to like." I growled at her as Aigis grew silent.
"They said another week be required for a complete recovery, but I had the process expedited. Tomorrow is New Year's Eve." Mitsuru said.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused... Mitsuru-san visited me at the lab and told me everything... That must have been difficult for you all to hear." Aigis said as she hesitantly looked at me and Onii-chan. "Minato-kun... Minako-san... Have you been well...? I mean, considering the circumstances..." Aigis mumbled as her eyes lowered.
I let out a small sigh.
I can't stay mad at her.
I ran up to her and wrapped my arms around her, bringing her into a warm embrace. Aigis returned my gesture. "Silly, you've been more worried about us than yourself. I guess we are more alike than I thought." I said as tears fell from my eyes. "I'm so glad you're alright and back. I've missed you." I slowly pulled away from her. "Welcome back!"
"I've... come back, but... Ten years ago, I... What I did to you two was..." Aigis went silent.
"You had no choice." I said as Onii-chan continued.
"It was the only way, Aigis. You had to do what you did."
"But... If I hadn't done that to you, you wouldn't be suffering like this... Minako-san, you're Mother and Father has presented you with a difficult choice... Have you made your decision?" Aigis asked as I nodded my head.
"Yes, I have." I answered.
"I have a favour to ask of you. Tomorrow, when they come, please... Please kill them...!" Aigis said as she took everyone by surprise. "Please! I can't bear to see everyone hurting like this! Please choose to have your memories erased...! Even if... Even if it means forgetting everything... and everyone..."
"A-Aigis, what're you talking about!?" Yukari asked.
"Yeah, this isn't like you." Junpei joined in.
Aigis however was silent.
"What's wrong, Aigis?" Mitsuru asked.
"Why...? Why did I come back here? My mission is to protect humanity from Shadows. But now, I know that I can't defeat them! So then... why am I here? I'm useless! I cannot even shed a tear for you all...!" Aigis mumbled as she lowered her eyes again.
"Oh, Aigis..." Fuuka mumbled.
"Why fight, when you know that you can't win!? What is the purpose of that!? Why are you wasting your lives!?" Aigis said.
"We're not wasting it, we're winning. We've beating our parents. There is always a way." I answered.
"Yeah, she's right. We're just planning. Right, Ken?" Sanada-senpai said to Ken-kun.
Ken-kun nodded his head.
"I... I don't understand." Aigis sighed. "It must be because I don't possess a 'life'..."
Junpei chuckled. "This has nothing to do with having a life."
"I'm a machine, a machine that was created to protect humans from Shadows. But, I can't fulfil that mission with the powers I was given... So then, what is my purpose now? Could someone please tell me?" Aigis pleaded as she looked at each of us individually.
"We can't tell you that Aigis. The only one that can decide your purpose, is you." I said to her as she looked at Onii-chan and me.
"That's why we're having such a hard time making our decision. There's just no easy answer." Onii-chan continued.
"But if we 're alive, we must do something... When we see others hurting, we want to help them. So that's out purpose." I continued for Onii-chan.
Onii-chan chuckled. "We're not that good at explaining it, but... that's what we all think."
"Can finding one's purpose really be so simple...?" Aigis's asked.
"When I saw you collapse, I realised something... I want to protect you... I don't want to forget about you." Fuuka said as she stepped forward towards Aigis.
"Fuuka-san!?" Aigis was surprised.
"There are times when you will lose sight of your goal, and you will have to search for it. But if you can't find it again, then you must set your heart on a new goal. I'm not really one to talk... but I feel that I've come to understand something important this year. To truly live, you will need to make changes sometimes." Mitsuru spoke as Aigis stared at her.
"Do you think I can do that? Do you think I can change?" Aigis asked.
Mitsuru nodded her head. "Yes. I mean, you've changed so much already. ...Haven't you noticed? In fact, you're changing even as we speak."
"I know what my purpose is... I'm a machine, a machine who is here to 'live'. And the one who has given me this new purpose is... me. This is the promise I've made to myself. I don't know how I'll do it... But I guess that is a part of living, too." Aigis said as she raised her head, with a smile on her face.
"I'm sure that's it." Yukari said.
"Yes!" Aigis nodded reassuringly. "Will you allow me to join with you all?"
I smiled at her happily. "Of course!" Tears falling down my face. Aigis ran into my arms, hugging me tightly.
"Thank you! I will be with you all, no matter what happens...!"
"That's the spirit!" Yukari cheered as I ruffled her hair.
31/12/2009
Today's the day. The day when I make the choice, where I either erase our memories or live on to face Mother and Father as Nyx and possibly die. I however have made my decision, as I'm sure everyone has even Aigis. Still just nerves getting to me.
"I see you're up, feeling okay." I heard Yukari say as she turned around in her bed to face me.
I nodded my head. "Yeah, just nervous about the whole thing. I know I've already made my decision. It's just a little stifling."
Yukari sat up in her bed and moved her head towards mine. "We all with you, no matter what happens." Yukari said as she kissed my forehead.
I nodded my head and hugged her. After a while I got up from her bed and kissed her. "I'm going to get changed."
"Okay, I'll be down in a minute." Yukari said as she took off her pyjama shirt. Before my eyes could wonder, she shooed me out of her room, while smirking.
As I got changed in my room, I heard a knock on my door.
"Aigis? Is everything alright?" I asked as her eyes lowered as soon as I opened my door.
She didn't answer.
"Aigis!? What's wrong!?" I asked urgently, as I held onto her hands.
"M-Minako-san... I never got to apologise about last night." Aigis stammered as she still refused to look me in my eyes.
"It's alright Aigis. You were just confused about your feelings. It's perfectly understandable. I think I would have felt the same, if I were you."
"That's good, I thought you hated me." Aigis said a she finally raised her head.
"I could never hate you Aigis. I might have said those things last night a bit too harshly, but that was only because I don't want you to throw your life away." I said as I pulled her into my chest. "You're my best friend, I could never hate you." I said stroking her back.
I felt her hands grab tightly to my back. "Is there something else you wanted to ask me, Aigis?" I asked as I pulled away from her. Immediately, something was wrong as I noticed Aigis's eyes started to water.
"Aigis, what's wrong? Why are you crying?" I asked as her hand raced to her eyes, rubbing her tears away.
She moved her hand away and gazed at the remnants of her tears still attached to her hand.
"What's this? I didn't know I can cry. A machine can't have human emotions!" Aigis said dumbfounded.
"It's because you are upset by something. Please tell what's wrong!" I said as I took care a hold of her tear stained hand.
"I-I can't! You will hate me!"
"Aigis, I've just told you. I could never hate you."
"Then why do I have these feelings for you?" Aigis shouted.
W-What!? Aigis has... feelings about me?
"I don't know what it is, but whenever I'm near you, I feel something in my chest. Like it's about to overheat. Then I feel weird, whenever you're near Yukari-san. I just feel angry whenever you two are together and having fun... Please Minako-san, make this feeling stop." Aigis pleaded as more tears fell down her face.
W-What!? Aigis is attracted to me!?
"Minako, are you still in there?" I heard Yukari say beyond my door.
"Hmm, yeah. I'll be out in a minute." I said trying to calm down Aigis as more tears fell down her face.
"Minako-san, what if Yukari-san can help?" Aigis looked up as her voice pleaded.
"Actually Yukari, can you come here. I need your help with something." I asked as Yukari opened my door.
"Aigis!? What are you doing in her? Have you been crying?" Yukari asked as Aigis turns to face her.
"I don't know what's wrong with me, can you please help. Aigis pleaded as Yukari looked towards me, her eyes asking me to explain.
I let out a small sigh. "You see Yukari, Aigis has feelings for me and she gets jealous whenever she sees us together." I explained to her.
"I'm jealous of you and Yukari-san? But, I don't want to get between what you two have." Aigis's hand tightened as she said that.
"Stop lying, Aigis. I can see that this hurts you." I said to her as I took her hands into mine.
"Then let me do this, it should be enough." Aigis said as her hands fell out if mine and her lips collided into mine. It only lasted a second as she took off her bow.
"A-Aigis!?" Yukari and I were surprised by what she's doing.
"At the base of my neck, behind the knot of the ribbon... My most important component is located there. The source of the artificial psyche that makes me who I am... My emotional engine... the 'Papillon Heart.' It's extremely delicate, so I am forbidden to expose it outside of the laboratory's clean room... I... want you to touch it. If exposed to your skin oils and cells, your genetic information will most likely be burnt into it. Even so... I want you to do this." Aigis then took off her blouse, revealing her mechanical body.
"I want to leave indelible proof in this body of the understanding that you and I have reached... Not as a memory that can be erased, but as something permanent... Something irrevocable." Aigis pleaded as she glanced at Yukari and then me.
Aigis trusts me this much and even if we die, we'll still be connected forever.
I smirked at her. "You really are silly aren't you." I pulled her into my chest, hugging her. "This means a lot to you doesn't it. We're not going to die, and even if we do, we'll all be together until the end. But that's not going to happen. We're going to win, like we always do." I said trying to convince Aigis, her eyes however still wavered. "But if it'll make you feel better, I'll touch it."
Immediately, Aigis's emotions elevated. "Thank you! I'm so happy..." Aigis cheered joyfully, as she moved her hand away. Inside her opened chest, were two tiny blue crystal, crossed in the shape of a butterfly.
"You want me to touch this? Will it hurt you?"
Aigis shook her head. "No, Minako-san it'll just tickle a bit." Aigis said as I raised my hand and moved it closer to Aigis's butterfly-shaped crystals. As my finger touched it, Aigis let out a small moan.
"A-Aigis!?" Yukari and I both jumped back as we were caught off guard. Then Aigis wrapped her arms around me.
"Thank you, Minako-san. You really are someone special to me." Aigis said as I chuckled and wrapped my arms around her.
"It's me who should be grateful for having a best friend like you." I said as Yukari chuckled.
"Come on, you two. We've got a big day today. Let's go and get some breakfast." Yukari said as she interlinked her fingers into mine.
As the time grew closer to midnight, I got more and more nervous about tonight's meeting. We heard a knock on the door to the lounge. "Here, we go. Are you ready, Minako?" Yukari asked as I grabbed onto her hand. I nodded my head as, Mitsuru opened the door.
In walked two adults. My parents. They were wearing the same clothes as the accident. I felt Yukari tightly squeeze my hand. "Hello Minako. I see you're doing well." Mother said as she stood near the sofa with Father by her side.
"M-Mother... F-Father... I see that it is true about the 13th Shadow absorbing you both." I stammered as I felt Fuuka take my other hand in hers.
"Yes. At midnight, we will change from this form into something unrecognisable." Father spoke as his eyes wondered around no looking at any of us.
Is he avoiding looking at me on purpose.
"Have you come to a decision, Minako?" Mother asked, she too didn't look
"I have." I answered as Onii-chan placed his hand on my shoulder.
"Okay, we'll be waiting in your room until midnight. Come and see us when you can." Father said as Mother and Father walked towards the staircase and ascended them.
I stood up, letting go of their hands. "Should I come with you?" Onii-chan asked.
I shook my head. "No, it's fine." Yukari pulled me into her arms.
"We'll be down here, if you need us okay." Yukari said as she kissed my forehead.
"I know." I said as I hugged her tightly.
"It's time to go and give them the news." Onii-chan said as he patted my shoulder. I let go of Yukari and followed my parents upstairs.
I took a second to collect myself before entering my room. "Hey." Mother spoke as I saw that them both stood up from my bed.
"I bet you didn't expect us to be those two from before." Father said as I sat down in the middle of my bed.
"Yeah, it kind of took me by surprise when I heard about it." I said as other and Father sat on either side of me.
Father chuckled. "I bet." Mother then unclipped my barrettes and I laid my head down on her lap. I felt Mother's fingers run through my hair.
"You've grown up so much this year. We're really proud of you." Mother said as she kissed my forehead.
"I've had friends to help me along the way. Without them, I don't think I would have lasted this long." I said as Mother reached for my hairbrush and brush my hair.
"I've missed doing this. I've missed a lot of things like this. I've missed you and Minato grow up, meeting your girlfriend and I'll miss you both getting married. We would probably have gotten Father to do the ceremony." Mother said which made me heavily blushed.
"S-So you approve the of Yukari and I?" I asked as I felt my cheeks heat up at the mere mention of Yukari and I getting married.
Yukari and I married? She would be my wife?
I shook those thoughts out of my head for now.
Maybe after we graduate and spent a couple of years together, then I'll think about it. "Of course, I approve. If she makes you happy, then that's all I could ask for." Mother said as I felt Father tap my leg.
"Did you really think your Mother and I wouldn't approve of your relationship with your girlfriend?"
"No, I just need to remember you guys are really here." I said as I gazed at them.
Mother then, tapped my shoulder, motioning me to get up. I did as I felt her hold my hands. "Can we see it? What we did to you, I mean?" Mother asked as I took off my cardigan and unbuttoned my ribbon and shirt, revealing a big scar just above my stomach. Mother gracefully moved her hand to touch it. I felt her cold her touch my scar and traced her hand across it.
"Mina... we're sorry." Mother said as she grabbed my hands.
"We lost control of Death's power and we hurt you and your friend." Father explained as I patted his shoulder.
"Father, it's alright. You just lost control of Death." I said.
"That's why you have to kill us. We can't be sure that we won't lose control over Death!" Mother pleaded.
"Mother, no! You know I can't do that! I only just got you both back, I don't want you to go away." I cried out as tears fell down my face.
"But we don't want to hurt our family. This is the only way, Mina." Father said.
"No, it's not." I said as I rebutted my shirt and my cardigan, revealing the fact, I don't have my evoker with me.
"You've decided not to kill us, haven't you?" Mother asked.
"Yes! I don't want to run away from my problems anymore, I've done that my whole life. I want to face my problems head-on, like Onii-chan and everyone. That is why we've all decided to stay this course and fight... Even if that means fighting you, Mother and Father." I said determined as I wiped away the tears from my face.
We stayed in silence for what felt like hours, until Mother finally spoke.
"You came to this decision a long time ago, didn't you?" Mother asked, not a trace of malice in her voice.
I nodded my head. "Yeah as soon as I found out about this Nyx, I took a day for myself to really think about it. Then I came to the decision to stay and fight instead of running away from my problems. I'm not that scared girl anymore, I have grown up into someone that everyone can be proud of. I want to protect everyone just like they protected me, my friends here, my friends at Gekkoukan and Grandfather and Nao-chan" I said as I tightly gripped Mother's and Father's hand.
Mother and Father turned to look at each other and smiled sweetly. They turned back to face me. "I see that nothing we do will change your mind." Mother said as her and Father stood up from my bed and walked towards my door
"Shall we go? Your friends are waiting." Father said.
"Wait, not yet!" I yelled as I ran into their arms. "Can we stay here, for a little longer." I asked. "I just got you back after all."
I heard Father chuckle. "Of course, my little Sakura. We can stay here for a little while longer."
I didn't say anything, just staying in their tight embrace.
What's this feeling? I feel stronger, but how? Huh!? That's it! Thanatos... He's changed, no it has evolved...
Phanes, welcome.
Yukari's POV
"Mina has been up there a long time, something must have happened. I swear if they do anything to hurt to her, I'll..." I growled out as I clenched my hands.
"Yukari-san, she'll be fine. I believe in her parents." Ken-kun said as he walked over towards me and Mitsuru.
"Amada is right, Yukari. Have faith in her and her parents." Mitsuru said as I heard footsteps descend the staircase. I turned around and saw that Minako walked down, hand in hand, with her parents.
She's alright.
I let out a sigh of relief as I ran over towards her and wrapped my arms around her.
"So, everything alright?" Minato asked as everyone walked over towards us.
Their Mother and Father patted Minato on his shoulder. "We're going to follow Minako's wishes, which I take it was your wishes." Yoshikazu-sama said.
"That's right." Junpei said.
"That doesn't mean we approve of it. Not by a long shot." Yori-sama murmured as she glared at each of us, but shortly relaxed. "But I understand."
"It's still impossible to defeat Nyx." Yoshikazu-sama mumbled.
"We still have to try." Mitsuru replied to him.
"Personally, I don't care if it is impossible. I've got a promise to keep." Sanada-senpai said as he pulled on his gloves.
Yori-sama smiled "We understand."
"It's almost midnight, so I'll keep this brief." Yoshikazu-sama spoke. "I'll tell you where to find Nyx. You'll find her... at the top of Tartarus. On the promised day, you must journey to the top of the tower."
"When's the promised day." I asked.
Yoshikazu-sama continued. "Exactly one month from tomorrow... January 31st, 2010. Nyx will descend to Tartarus and the world will end. Tartarus is a gigantic rift in the darkness of the night sky... It's a beacon to guide Nyx. With the Appraiser's coming, Nyx learns that the way has been prepared, and descends there... And thus, the demise will come.
"Not if we can help it." Minako smiled.
"So that's why it's called the Tower of Demise. But what you're saying is, we can fight Nyx if we reach the top?" Sanada-senpai spoke.
"That's right." Yori-sama said seriously. "But remember. From today, you will fight against eternal despair. Like we've said so many times before, Nyx cannot be defeated. When you face her, you will finally understand this truth. And then, you will realise what it is you are trying to stand against."
"We understand. There's no need to keep telling us." Mitsuru said while a small smile on her face. "January 31st... We won't forget that date."
Yoshikazu-sama and Yori-sama moved their hands from Minato's shoulder and moved their hands from Minako's. "Well, we better go on ahead." Yoshikazu-sama moved towards the dorm door as Yori-sama looked on. Soon she moved to face me and grabbed my hands.
"Yukari-san, I want to thank you for taking care of Minako, for loving her for who she is." Minako moved behind me and wrapped her arms around my stomach.
"She's made it easy. She's helped me get back together with my Mom and helped me deal with what happened with my Dad." I said as I felt Minako squeeze me. Yori-sama smiled at us and moved onto Mitsuru and Minato.
"I want to thank you, Mitsuru-san. Thank you for standing by Minato's side during everything. He might not look like it, but he doesn't handle pressure well, from what I can remember from Father."
"He has been a pleasure and a gentleman, probably because of your influence." Mitsuru said as Minato wrapped his arms around her.
Yori-sama smiled again and turned to everyone and bowed. "I want to thank you all for being friends with my Son and Daughter and being there for them!" Everyone chuckled.
"In truth, they were there for us when we needed them." Fuuka said.
"Yeah, Minako-san has been helping me with my studying and cooking us meals every day. She's an amazing cook." Ken-kun murmured as I saw Minako blush.
"I see." Yori-sama giggled as she walked over towards Yoshikazu-sama. "I guess this is goodbye. I wish you all good luck."
"As do I." Yoshikazu-sama said as Minako let go of me and ran over towards her parents and hugged them individually, Minato followed her.
"Never forget, I'm proud of the woman and Man you've both become and that even though we won't exist in this form after today, we will always be with you both. We are so proud of you of the people you've both become." Yori-sama said as she hugged them both, as tears fell down her face. Yoshikazu-sama joined them as he hugged the three family members.
I'm glad they can be together again as a family, just for a moment.
They soon spit apart and Minako waved goodbye to her parents as they walked away into the green mist of the Dark Hour. Shortly after, we all decided to go to bed.
Minako's POV
After today, I really just need to lie down. So much has happened and its really tired me out. Just a quick shower and straight to bed. Honestly, I can feel my eyes shutting already.
After my shower, I dragged myself to Yukari's room, who thankfully was waiting outside for me. As soon as I got to her, she wrapped her arms around me and our lips collided. We pulled apart from each other as we both settled into bed. Yukari's arms wrapped around my stomach, pulling me closer to her.
Guess, I made the right choice.
21/01/2010
It has been a couple of weeks since that unforgettable night and as we started to ascend closer and closer to the top of Tartarus, more of my anxiety started to creep up into my head again, though everyone was of course comforting and suggested that we should take a couple of days off before we try again. Throughout the day though everyone, we all started to see even more people succumbing to the Shadows and turning into the Lost and news of an end of the World Cult started to pop up everywhere, even in Gekkoukan, rumours of the cult spread around the student body and soon the Student Council. Mitsuru had called an assembly to address the issue. Every single member of the Student Council was onstage with the Mitsuru as she delivered her speech. Mitsuru and I each gave small speeches to reassure the student body that this cult was bad news and they it would be best to avoid them at all cost. Once it was over Yukari and the others had stayed behind to wait for us.
As soon as classes ended for the day, Mitsuru had called me to stay behind in the Student Council room. So, as I left Yukari, Onii-chan and Junpei, I entered the room. Inside was only Mitsuru.
"Ah, Minako. Glad you could make it. Why don't you take a seat? Trust me you'll need it."
"What is it, Senpai? You look... unnerved."
"There's something you have to know. You remember Chidori, don't you?"
I nodded my head curiously. Where is Mitsuru going with this?
"I don't mean to alarm you, but... The fact is... there's a chance that she might wake up today."
"Chidori-san might wake up!? Senpai, that's impossible, she died. I checked her myself. She didn't have a pulse."
"I know, however... her body began to undergo Transmogrification a few days after the incident."
She Transmogrified!?
"For the past few weeks, she has been in a state that is neither living nor dead."
"But how?"
"I don't know? It may be related to her Persona abilities, but that's mere speculation. But what I wanted to talk to you about... is your opinion on how to break the news to Iori. You see, she's probably-" Mitsuru was cut off as her phone started to vibrate. She quickly answered her phone call.
"Hello... I see... Yes, I understand." Mitsuru ended her phone call.
Well that was quick.
"That was the hospital. They say she's just awakened. It's unbelievable... but although you had confirmed her death, it seems Chidori has come back to life-" Mitsuru was interrupted again as the Student Council door was sharply opened and someone unexpected ran in.
"D-Did I gear that right?" Junpei mumbled as I ran to him and hugged him.
"Junpei... Yes." I cried out as tears fell down my face.
"Iori...!? Chidori is..."
"Huh...? I-Is this a joke? Some kinda trick?" Junpei asked.
Mitsuru however shook her head. "No... It's not a joke, or a trick. She is currently recovering in the same hospital as before." She said as I felt Junpei trembled.
"Junpei! Go to the hospital. Chidori-san needs you!" I said as it looked like I managed to get his attention.
"R-Right" Junpei mumbled as he ran out of the Student Council room. Outside, Yukari, Fuuka and Onii-chan were stunned by Junpei bolting away.
"Senpai... Mina? What's with Junpei? Why did he just take off like that?" Yukari asked as I ran to her side and hugged her.
"Something amazing just happened. Come on." I said as I wiped away my tears and grabbed onto Fuuka's and Yukari's hands and dragged them with me to the hospital.
When we finally got to the hospital, we made it to outside of the Chidori-san's room she had when she was getting treatment, before she died. Outside of her door was a shocked Junpei. I looked inside, and Mitsuru's suspicions were confirmed. Inside was Chidori-san, alive.
She's alive. I can't believe it.
I felt tears fall down my face.
"She's really alive." Fuuka sobbed.
"I can't believe it." Yukari said as I felt her hand tighten around mine.
Then I turned around as I heard footsteps walk down the corridor. it turned out to be Mitsuru, Onii-chan and the others.
"She hasn't changed then." Mitsuru mumbled as she walked over towards us. "Minako, we need you. You need to see her situation for yourself, then you'll understand."
I nodded my head and wiped away the tears from my eyes. "Yes, of course Mitsuru."
Yukari squeezed my hand as I kissed her forehead, as Mitsuru and I walked towards Junpei, leaving everyone else outside of her hospital room. "Come on, Junpei. Let's go and see Chidori-san."
"R-Right." Junpei mumbled out as he tensed up.
As we entered her room I got a closer look at her. She looked thinner, but she had a healthy complexion and that's all that matters.
Her doctor spoke as he noticed us enter. "Her damaged endocrine system and other internal organs have completely healed. She's still weak... but there's no more danger of her dying in two years."
"Is it... really you, Chidori?" Junpei mumbled as he moved closer to her and sat down on the corner of her bed. "I'm not dreaming... am I...?"
"Dreaming...?" Chidori-san said as Junpei sobbed.
"It's true... it is you... Chidori..."
Chidori-san looked around the room, looking at each of us individually. "Who... are you? I've never meet any of you before. How do you know me?"
Wait What!?
"Huh...? What...?" Junpei stood up from Chidori-san's bed.
"I thought as much..." Mitsuru spoke.
"Mitsuru, what's going on? Why doesn't she remember us?" I asked.
"Transmogrification is the proof that one lacks 'potential'... I suspected that this might be the case." Mitsuru answered.
Her persona did fuse with Junpei's. Does that mean she can't use it anymore? Wait, because she lost her potential to use a persona, does that mean she's forgotten us? Forgotten Junpei?
"This is Mitsuru-san, Minako-san and Junpei-kun. They were your friends last year." The doctor told Chidori-san as he motioned for each of us, respectively.
"Friends?" Chidori-san looked at each is us curiously. "My name is Chidori Yoshino. "I'm sorry... it hasn't quite hit me yet, but it seems I don't remember any of the past few years. It's as if I was dreaming for a very long time."
"Chidori... Yoshino..." Junpei mumble.
"It seems all of her memories after she awakened to her Persona are gone... She remembers everything that happened before then, but as for you all." Her doctor spoke.
I felt tears threaten to fall down my face. I let them fall. I couldn't be happier to see her alive, with her memories or not. "It's alright, Chidori-san. They'll come back to you eventually." I said as I sat on her bed. Junpei looked on shocked.
Mitsuru approached Junpei and placed her hand on his shoulder. "Iori..."
Junpei shook his head and smiled at us, even though tears threatened to trickle down his face. "Nah... I think... It's better for her that she doesn't remember." He wipes away the tears around his eyes. "All that stuff about fighting and pills... When you're having a nightmare... It ain't a bad thing to wake up." Junpei said as he smiled gleefully at Chidori-san.
I wiped away the tears from my eyes and squeezed Junpei's hand to comfort him.
"Hey, I didn't say it was a nightmare. Don't put words in my mouth." Chidori-san suddenly spoke. "It was a dream of meeting a kind, warm person at the end of a long tunnel... I can't remember it clearly... But I wanted him to be happy, and I... I think... there were flowers... a room filled with them..." Chidori-san smiled at Junpei and I, but quickly groaned and clutched her head.
"Chidori-san!" I leaped to her side, as did Junpei.
"Chidori! Take it easy. You don't have to force yourself to remember." Junpei said holding her left hand as I held her right. She nodded her head carefully, trying to get through the pain in her head.
"Flowers in a room." The doctor said contemplating next to Mitsuru. "If she remembers that part clearly, then maybe..."
Mitsuru looked puzzled.
"Do you remember when she'd use her power from time to time to make flowers bloom again? She's always do it for the flowers in her room on the days when Junpei-kun would come. Ay flower she touched would be mysteriously preserved... That's why I kept them all, for research purposes. But after the autopsy... I put them all on her chest as a tribute. And thinking back on it, it may have been that night she began to transmogrify..."
"The power to share one's life with others... Could it be that she reclaimed the life energy she's given to those flowers...?" Mitsuru pondered.
"Well, I can't prove any of it... But compared to how she was before, she's changed. The loss of her power is part of it, bit more than that- W-What that's light!"
The doctor cut himself off.
"What light?" I asked as he pointed to me.
"M-Minako... What are you doing?" Mitsuru asked.
"I'm doing nothing. I don't know what you are talking about? What light?" I asked.
Okay I'm getting scared now. What light are they talking about?
"M-Mina-tan l-look." Junpei mumbled as he pointed to where my hand was.
Coming from my hand that held Chidori-san's, was a glowing light.
"W-What's happening?" Soon more and more tiny lights ebbed from my hand and started to surround Chidori-san. Then lights that were scattered around Chidori-san vanished.
"Chidori-san. Are you okay?" I asked as I moved my hands away from her.
Chidori-san giggled. "Of course, Minako-san, I'm feeling a lot better."
"Mina-tan, what were those lights?" Junpei asked as I stared at him, panicking.
"I-I don't know... T-That's never happened before."
"Those 'lights' were my powers that I healed Junpei with. The power I used to heal myself when I had hurt myself. It can work on others as well, like it did on Junpei. Before I died, I passed them onto you, Minako-san. It was the last of my persona, before Medea fused with Junpei's power."
I-If she remembers that day. Then...
"Speaking of Junpei, come here." Chidori-san motioned for Junpei to get closer to her.
He was still a bit taken back about the lights, yet he still moved closer to her. Finally, face to face Chidori-san closed the gap between them and her lips collided with his.
Immediately, tears started to fall down my face.
They're together. After all that has happened, they're finally together. Nothing is going to tear them apart.
Junpei couldn't tare his eyes away from Chidori-san, he held her tightly as if fearing she would disappeared again.
I smiled happily at them. I turned around and saw that Mitsuru was barely keeping herself together as she was trying her hardest not to let the tears fall.
"We'll leave you in peace. I'm so glad to have you back Chidori-san." I cried out as I held Mitsuru's arms and pulled her towards the door as we left the two alone.
Outside of Chidori-san's room, Fuuka and Yukari were hugging each other as they cried out loud in each other's arms. Sanada-senpai was barely holding it together himself as I saw him rub at his eyes. Onii-chan however looked into the room and gleefully smiled at the two inside. When everyone noticed we had left the hospital room, Onii-chan walked over to Mitsuru and I ran to Fuuka and Yukari, running into their open arms and wept openly.
Finally, some good news. It's been so long since something amazing happened.
As we left, leaving Junpei behind to spend some time alone with Chidori-san, we all walked back to the dorm, truly happy for once.
Inside Ken-kun and Koro-chan were sitting together on the sofa, though I glanced at something Ken-kun was holding. "Ken-kun, Koro-chan we're back." Fuuka called out.
"Oh good." Ken-kun popped his head up from the sofa. "Wait where's Junpei-san?"
We all smiled at him. "Something wonderful happened." Yukari said.
"Do you remember Chidori-san?" I asked as he nodded his head sadly.
"Yeah, she liked Junpei-san. Then she died."
"Well she's alive and Junpei is spending time with her." Fuuka continued.
Ken-kun smiled happily. "Good, I'm glad Junpei can be happy."
"Yeah, it's been a while since something truly good has happened." I said as I glanced at his arm behind his back.
What's he hiding?
"Is there something going on Ken-kun?" I asked as he turned away from us.
"Ken, what's wrong?" Onii-chan asked.
He let out a heavy sigh. "You've got this letter. It was address to the dorm, but it's obviously for you, Minako-san." Ken-kun moved his arms and presented me the letter in question.
I took it from him and opened it. From the way Ken-kun looked away from me, it is obviously something important.
Okay, here goes.
Inside was a single letter and documents. I opened the letter first and was astounded by it. "This is a court summoning. For the cases of Mitsuo and Akiyama Kubo, who are charged with, harassment, sexual assault and kidnapping." I read out loud as I felt someone, not knowing who, take the documents from my hand. I was so focused on the letter.
"Oh my god."
"Mina..."
"No, I have to do this. I need to end this, once and for all." I shook my head.
Finally, it's time to end this. Those two ruined my life for a time. I'm going to stop them from doing what they did to me onto others. I smiled back at the others, with fire in my eyes.
"And we'll be there with you." Mitsuru said as they all nodded their heads.
"It says the prosecutor is from Tokyo and is coming here especially for this case. Seems like Grandfather now owes a favour to this person. To Prosecutor Niijima." Onii-chan said as he read through the documents. "Oh."
"Is something the matter Minato?" Sanada-senpai asked.
"It's dated January 31st, the same day we fight Nyx." Onii-chan looked around at everyone. They all looked surprised and conflicted. "Guys, if you want to focus yourselves on Nyx, we understand. It's mostly likely a one-way trip. You've all done so much for us, we can do this."
"Onii-chan is right, you guys have been there for us when no one else was. It'll probably be, Grandfather, Nao-chan and Yakushiji-san there with me and Onii-chan."
"No, if you are going, then we're all going. You've been through hell because of the things they put you through. It's time for payback." Yukari said as she tightly tugged on my arm."
"Yeah, you've done a lot for me. What kind of friend would I be if I weren't there for you." Fuuka said as she held my hand.
"You already know my answer. You were with me when I talked to you about Miki. I won't abandon you now." Sanada-senpai said as he patted my shoulder.
"You both stood by and supported me when Father died. You then snapped me out of my careless state. I would do anything to help repay your kindness." Mitsuru smiled as she enveloped Onii-chan and I in warm hugs.
"This is your chance for them to feel feared by you, Minako-san. I would pay anything to watch it." ken-kun said as he smiled.
I smiled at them, cheerfully. "Thanks guys. It means a lot."
"M-Minako-san... I-I want to come too." Aigis stuttered.
She's playing with her hands just like before. When she wanted to touch her heart.
I smiled at her and held her hands. "Of course, you can come. I'll need you the most. You're my best friend after all."
Aigis smiled gleefully. "Thank you. I promise I'll be on my best behaviour." Aigis bowed her head.
"Well if that's been decided, we have 10 days to get ready for court and for fighting Nyx." Onii-chan said as he held Mitsuru's hand.
"Yes, while the court date is important our priority is getting to the top of Tartarus. We should go their tonight." Mitsuru said as we all agreed.
The next 10 days are going to be tough. I'm going to need to give it everything I can.
31/1/2010
"Okay, I can do this." I slapped my cheeks, psych myself up and calm my shaking hands...
It didn't work.
Yukari, Fuuka and Aigis were with me in one of the bathrooms near the courtroom. While Mitsuru, Ken-kun, Sanada-senpai and Onii-chan were waiting outside, Grandfather and Nao-chan were hurrying to get here on time with Prosecutor Niijima. Thanks to Mitsuru, she had organised dresses and suits for everyone. I took a while to get Sanada-senpai and Junpei into there's but they both soon relented.
"We'll be right there with you, Minako-san." Fuuka patted my shoulder.
"Yeah." Aigis nodded her head.
"You've got this, Minako. We all believe in you. Everyone at Gekkoukan stands with you." Yukari said as she kissed me.
"I-I know." I let out a heavy sigh.
I have to do this. No one else is going to put them away, but me. It's time they're scared of me and what I can do.
"Alright, let's do this." I splashed water onto my face as I started to psych myself up again.
"You've got this, Minako." Yukari said as she kissed my forehead.
I nodded my head as we left the bathroom together.
Outside of the bathroom, the Prosecutor assigned to my case was there, alongside Nao-chan and Yakushiji-san. Strangely Grandfather was not with Nao-chan and Yakushiji. "Ah, you've brought your friends Minako-sama."
"Of course. They wouldn't take no for an answer." I chuckled.
"We wouldn't miss this day. It's an important day." Yukari said as she grabbed my hand. "For all of us."
"Yes. Yes, it is." Niijima-sama said as he approached me. "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Satoshi Niijima, I was a friend of your parents and Yuuya, here."
"You knew Mother and Father?" Onii-chan asked curiously.
"Of course, I used to work with your Mother. She was a young detective when I had just started out as a Prosecutor. I was at their wake. You probably don't remember me, I brought my daughter and my wife, though Sae would have only been a couple of months old at the time. I'm sorry I didn't visit you both afterwards, my... my passed away a couple of years ago. She had just given birth to my second daughter, Makoto." Niijima-sama explained.
"Oh... I'm sorry to hear that." I apologised.
"It's okay, we came to terms with it last year. Makoto was too young to understand that her Mother is gone, though I think Sae knew. She was quite for a while. She spent more time playing with Makoto and she wanted to help with my cases. I guess it's not just my family that help out with detective cases."
"I guess you could say that." I said as I patted Nao-chan's shoulder.
"They're ready for us." Grandfather said as he smiled at Onii-chan and I. "Naoto, Yakushiji and I can't go in. Our ties to the case might cause a conflict of interest. It'll be down to you guys." Grandfather tapped my shoulder.
Okay, so no pressure then.
"But we know you can do it. You've made it this far because of your friends, you'll do this. Just believe in yourself." Yakushiji-san said as he ruffled my hair. Grandfather and Yakushiji-san then turned to Niijima-sama.
"Please end this." Grandfather pleaded.
"I will sir. On my honour as a Prosecutor, I will settle this." Niijima-sama declared as Grandfather nodded his head.
I took a deep breath as I stared at the courtroom.
Grandfather's right, I have to be the one to end this. After all these years of hiding away living in terror of Mitsuo and his Father. It ends today.
Inside the courtroom, the judges were getting settled as were the other Justice's. We all took our seat's as a gavel struck against the sound block, which drew everyone's attention. Then I noticed something strange. There was no defence on their side.
Did something happen?
Then in walked the two that had put me through a lot of pain and terror. Both Mitsuo and his Father walked in, in handcuffs.
I clenched my hands, as hard as I could. But, I knew I'm not alone in this.
Everyone is counting on me. Only I can send them away for good.
I felt Yukari's hand wrapped itself around mine, on my left, as did Onii-chan's on my right.
The Police Officers led the two to their chairs.
"The date is January 31st, 2010, at 12:20PM. The trial that is to commence is for Mitsuo Kubo aged 16, and Akiyama Kubo aged 50, who are charged with harassment, sexual assault, destruction of evidence, bribery and kidnapping. Please take a seat." The chief Judge as everyone sat down.
Mitsuo's Father glared at the chief Judge and then at Niijima-sama and then finally at me and Onii-chan. He nudged Mitsuo and he smiled manically at us both.
Immediately, my hands start to shake, and my back tensed up, so I turned away from the two lowering my head.
Maybe I can't do this. They've avoided being sentenced for so long. What'll happen if they are freed or worse not found guilty.
I then felt a hand Squeeze mine. I looked up and saw Yukari.
That's right, I'm not alone. Everyone is with me. Sanada-senpai. Junpei, Aigis, Fuuka, Yukari, Mitsuru, Ken-kun Koro-chan, Nao-chan, Yakushiji-san and Grandfather and my friends at Gekkoukan. They all believe I can do this, and I'm not going to let them down. Not this time.
I raised my head and glared at Mitsuo and his father. That seemed unsettle them. They both turned away and looked at the chief Judge.
"Now then, let's get this started. Let me go over the details of the case. Three years ago, the accused kidnapped the victim and held her against her will. Mitsuo Kubo allegedly sexually assaulted her, while Akiyama Kubo watched and took pictures of the incident. Akiyama then sent the pictures to the head of the Shirogane estate. When she eventually escaped, Mitsuo Kubo destroyed the evidence that the incident ever took place, while Akiyama Kubo bribed the Police Officers investigating the case." The Chief Judge concluded. "What do you both say in your defence?" He asked.
The two stood in silence.
"Since that the defendants refuse to speak, I will move onto the prosecution. Niijima-kun, please begin." The Chief Judge said.
"Yes, your honour." Niijima-sama stood up from his desk and bowed respectively. He glared directly at Mitsuo and his Father. "You both have evaded the swift sword of justice, but not today. I call Minako Arisato to the stands." He said.
Immediately, I tensed up. My hands started to shake as my legs started to tremble.
I guess this is it then. I have to do this.
"You've got this, Minako." Yukari said as she squeezed my hand.
"We're here for you, Mina-tan." Junpei said.
"Go and show them who's boss, Mina." Onii-chan and Ken-kun said as they both smiled at me.
"It's time and prove them that you are stronger, Minako." Mitsuru said.
"We'll be right here, Minako-san." Fuuka said.
"You can do this, Minako." Sanada-senpai said.
"Yeah, I've got this." I nodded my head. "Thank you, everyone."
I casted my nerves to one side as I walked past Mitsuo and his father and stood onto the stand. Filled with confidence, I glanced at everyone at the back of the courtroom and smiled at them.
"Arisato-san, please describe in detail what transpired on that fated date." He requested. "At any point you feel like you can't continue, we may stop the trial for a break."
I shakily nodded my head. "R-Right. Where should I start?"
"Please, start with the day it happened." He asked, so I nodded my head.
"It was the day of Graduation from Middle school, my brother and I were walking back to my Grandfather's estate, He wanted to head inside a nearby convenience store to pick up something. He told me to wait outside, as he was only getting a few things. I think it was a candy bar and a drink. While I waited, Mitsuo had walked over and started to talk to me. At the time, I was scared of everyone I didn't know because of being bullied at a young age. You see, I didn't have a lot of friends growing up, so I was really distrusting of everyone. Mitsuo though seemed different. He looked like he was lost and was about to cry. He started to panic about not finding his friend. I wanted to make a friend or at least ensure we found his friend. He led me to where he last saw his friend, it was to a corner that had no one nearby, but a black coloured car. I turned around to ask him where he was last with his friend, but I piece of cloth covered my mouth and I felt strange and sleepy."
A large lump in my throat started to appear.
Now this is the part that gets really hard to tell.
I clenched my hands and looked over towards everyone. Onii-chan looked towards me and nodded his head.
"Do you want to continue Arisato-san?" Niijima-sama asked.
I turned to him and nodded my head. "W-When I awoke, I-I was chained up, n-naked on a mattress. H-He was next to me. He pulled on the chains attached to my hands, that were hiding myself away."
As I remembered what they did. I couldn't help but lowered my head and feel tears run down my face, as my hands started to shake, and my legs tense up.
It was all becoming too much... But I can't stop. If I can't stop them here, then no one will.
"H-He crept closer to me as his father walked in holding a camera. I tried to fight him off, but he was too strong. H-He started to touch and lick me in places. A-A-And then he-he... He r-r-raped me. I-In the end there was nothing I could do. I-I just begged for it to end. W-When he was done, he stood and took pictures of me. I didn't care anymore, I just wanted it to end."
"And now it's over, you can sit back down now. You are really brave to stand up here and tell everyone what happened." Niijima-sama said as I walked off the stand, legs still trembling, and walked towards everyone. They all patted me on my shoulders and told me I did great. I'm just glad my part is over.
When I sat down, I felt the darkness claw its way into me...
Minato's POV
I looked away from Mina's Prosecutor to look at her. There she was asleep on my shoulder.
I guess that was a bit much for her. Sleep well, Mina. Your part is done. Now it's just up to Niijima to seal this case shut for good.
I looked over towards everyone. Junpei Akihiko-senpai, Ken and Aigis were glaring at the two on trial, as they all clenched their fists. Mitsuru, Fuuka and Yukari were barely keeping themselves together as tears fell down their faces as they looked at Mina. They each looked proud of her, for finally facing up to her attackers. Mother and Father would be proud of her too, we'll have to tell them tonight, when we defeat them.
Minako's POV
It must have been a few hours later when I awoke, since the was just starting to wrap up. Niijima-sama volleyed every piece of evidence at the two and it looked like the chief Judge was believing every single piece of it. I raised my head.
"Hey... feeling better." Onii-chan asked quietly.
"Yeah. How log was I out?"
"Just a couple of hours. Niijima, really laid into them. I think the chief Judge has heard enough."
As if on cue, he slammed his gabble down. "Due to the overwhelming evidence brought forward by the victim and the authorities, both from the past and the present, we have come to a decision. Akiyama Kubo, I hereby sentence you to 30 years in prison. Mitsuo Kubo, I hereby sentence you to 20 years in prison. You both are despicable men and deserve no sympathy. Case Dismissed." The chief Judge declared. Police Officers started to take away the two, as they tried to resist. It didn't work as more Officers surrounded them and took them out of the courtroom.
It's over... All these years of fighting... Over.
I felt light as a feather in the wind...
My legs gave out. I would've collided with the ground, if it wasn't for strong arms keeping me up.
"Woah, Mina. We've got you." A voice said. I couldn't understand who the voice belongs to, I was just focused on myself.
I did it, Grandfather was right, everyone was right, I could do it. And now they're in prison.
"Everyone, give her some space." A different voice said.
The warms arms wrapped around laid me down onto the ground, so I was sitting up.
"Mina, are you alright?" A voice said. This time I listened to the voices around me.
"Yes, Onii-chan. I'm alright... no. I'm better than alright. I'm ecstatic! I'm finally, free from them! I can't believe it!" I said as I shot up and wrapped myself around him, giggling to myself.
"This isn't a dream, is it? This is real?"
"Yes, Mina. This is real." Onii-chan said as he pulled away and ruffled my hair. Then Junpei pulled me away from Onii-chan to congratulate me. Then Yukari did the same, as did, Fuuka, Ken-kun, Sanada-senpai and finally Mitsuru.
It was all a bit overwhelming, then Niijima-sama walked over towards us. I managed to get passed everyone, so I was in front of them when Niijima-sama "Thank you, Niijima-sama." I bowed politely. "Thanks to you, I wouldn't have my life back to normal."
Niijima-sama chuckled. "It was all down to you. Your testimony was the key to putting them away."
Then the door to the courtroom abruptly opened. "Daddy!" A young girl, that looked like around Ken-kun's age, maybe a bit older, with short brown hair, yelled as she ran towards Niijima-sama. Behind her was a slightly taller girl with long silver hair that was put into a ponytail and looked like she was around my age. I moved out of the way, so they could meet.
"Hey, Makoto. What are you doing here?" Niijima-sama asked as the older girl looked at me, curiously.
"I'm sorry, Satoshi. She kind of got the best of me. She's definitely your daughter." Grandfather appeared with Yakushiji-san and Nao-chan.
"It's no problem, Yuuya." Niijima-sama turned to face me as he held the hand of his youngest daughter. "Makoto, Sae, this is a family friend. Please, say hello to Minako-san."
Makoto-san politely bowed as did Sae-san. "It's a pleasure to meet you."
"No, the pleasure is mine. I'm truly indebted to your Father. Without him, I wouldn't have won this trial."
"I've told you, don't be so modest. You did this, I only helped you get there." Niijima-sama said as he patted my shoulder.
"Thank you, Niijima-sama." I thanked.
"Why don't you join us, Satoshi. We are off to celebrate after today." Grandfather offered.
"I'm afraid I have to refuse, my friend. I have to take these little princesses home and put them to bed. It is getting rather late."
"I totally forgot about the time. I'm sorry." I apologised.
"No worries, but I have to go. I'll see you later Yuuya." Niijima-sama said as he picked up Makoto-san and put her on to his shoulders, as Sae-san smiled at me and walked away, trailing behind her Father and Makoto-san, though she turned around and ran back to me.
"I'm glad Father helped you today. He's been having a rough patch, but seeing him like this, overjoyed with his success. He might start being his usual self. Thank you, Arisato-san." Sae-san thanked as she ran back to her Father.
Aa the family left the courtroom, only Grandfather, Nao-chan, Yakushiji-san and my friends remained.
"Well, we can still celebrate. We can do it back at the Dorm." Junpei said as he walked up to us. "O-Of course if you want to, sir?"
"I'm sure that's fine, but Yakushiji and I have to leave. There's another case that requires my attention. Naoto can stay though." Grandfather said as Nao-chan smiled.
"I hope I won't be a problem for you all." Nao-chan said as she bowed her head.
"You won't be a problem, at all Nao-chan." I said as I patted her shoulder.
"Yeah, you can stay in my room for the night if you need to." Yukari said, but Nao-chan shook her head.
"I don't want to get in the way of anything you had planned. You deserve to spend the time you have together." Nao-chan said as my cheeks heated up.
"T-There's- We don't do that." I said as Yukari and Nao-chan chuckled.
"We better head off. I hope you have a great night." Grandfather said as he wrapped his arms around me. "You did great, Minako." He whispered into my ears. Grandfather pulled away and kissed my forehead.
"Thank you, Grandfather." I said as I smiled at him. He tugged on his coat and motioned to Yakushiji to follow him.
"Everything you've done in the past year, has amazed me. You've grown so much and I'm proud of you." Yakushiji-san hugged me and kissed my forehead as well.
"Thank you, Yakushiji-san" I thanked him as he pulled away. He soon walked away with Grandfather.
"So, want to get back to the dorm?" Onii-chan asked.
"Are you going to bake something, Minako-san?" Fuuka asked.
"I think this is one of those times where someone should cook for her." Ken-kun said.
"Guys, there's no need. I can do it. I don't mind." I tried to change their minds.
"I think I can arrange something. We should go, I think a new trial case is starting soon." Mitsuru said.
"Yeah, let's go." I said as I grabbed onto Nao-chan's hand. "Come on, I'll show you where you can sleep for the night."
Back at the dorm and after our celebration, Yukari, Onii-chan, Junpei, Fuuka, Aigis and Ken-kun were staying with Nao-chan in the lounge while Sanada-senpai, Mitsuru and I were meeting in the Operations room to discuss about our plan for tonight. Our plan against Nyx. Since this is likely a one-way trip, we need to plan for every single possibility. We wanted to be away from any distractions, that was why the others were distracting Nao-chan. Finally, we had all come together to the same plan.
"Since Nyx is at the top of Tartarus, we'll need to be able to take out any Shadows that could interfere with the strike team." I said.
"I agree. We need to ensure the Strike team are not harmed. The problem is who will lead and be a part of the two diverge teams." Mitsuru asked.
"I feel this should work." Sanada-senpai said.
"I think it would be best, if you both led the two teams. We just need to figure out who will be in the strike team and the rest of the members for the diversion teams." I said to the two.
"I think that would be best." Mitsuru agreed. "We should limit the number in the strike team, to allow them to get their quickly. Three should do."
"I don't know about that." Sanada-senpai disagreed. "I feel like we need more members in the strike team. We need every able-body fighting Nyx."
"But shouldn't we need more defending them. We can't afford them getting distracted from the Shadows." Mitsuru argued.
"I-I don't know." I let out a heavy sigh. "We should agree when everyone's here. They need to know what we have planned."
"That would be best. We'll have to wait until your cousin is asleep." Mitsuru sighed.
"Knowing Nao-chan, that'll be a while." I chuckled. "All we have to do is wait until Midnight."
"She likes to stay up late, huh?" Sanada-senpai asked.
"She has trouble sleeping, so she prefers to go over Grandfather's cases all night." I explained.
"Just have to wait a couple of hours. You better go and enjoy your time." Mitsuru said.
"This'll most likely be our last time together, spend it with your family." Sanada-senpai murmured, though he seemed a bit distracted.
I nodded my head. "I'll send up Onii-chan. Coming Sanada-senpai?"
"Nah, it's fine. I'm gonna go out for a bit. Need to tell Shinji something." Sanada-senpai mumbled.
"I understand. Why not take Ken-kun with you?" Mitsuru said, but Sanada-senpai blushed a bit.
"No, this is something... Something I need to say alone." Sanada-senpai blushed more. "It's something I should have said a long time ago. I picked the perfect time to tell him, huh?"
O-Oh.
I nodded my head. "Alright, if you want to talk about it afterwards I'll be here for you." I said as I patted his shoulder.
"Thanks, Minako." Sanada-senpai smiled at me. "I better go. I've got a lot to say. Promise I'll be back for midnight." Sanada-senpai said as he left through the door.
"I better go as well. I'm sure, Onii-chan wants to know what we have planned for tonight." I said as Mitsuru nodded her head.
"Of course."
It was now 10 minutes until midnight. Onii-chan had left to see Mitsuru and has been up there ever since. Nao-chan was playing with Koro-chan and was talking to Ken-kun about Phoenix Ranger Featherman R. Junpei was busy messaging Chidori-san, who was still in hospital and Yukari and Fuuka were in the kitchen getting food for Koro-chan. Sanada-senpai had returned a couple of minutes ago, rubbing at his eyes. Immediately, I walked to him and hugged him. He returned it, as he let out a quiet sob. We walked away from the others to get some privacy.
When we were alone, he rubbed at his eyes again.
"So, how was it then?" I asked.
"It felt good." Sanada-senpai's voice wavered a bit. "I talked to him about my feelings." Sanada-senpai lowered his head.
"What's wrong?" I asked raising his head.
"I-I should have told him when he was alive. B-But I was too scared. I felt he would have denied my feelings." He sobbed. "I guess I'll never know now."
"That's not true. I know he felt something for you. He would always make sure you were his first priority m, that's why he didn't talk you about the pills he was taking. He wanted to spare your feelings. He did the same when he died. He purposely didn't tell you about his plan, so he wouldn't have any regrets."
Sanada-senpai strangely chuckled. "It's funny, I've had these feelings for a long time, but it's just taken Nyx to make me realise them."
"I'm sure he would have loved to be with you." I happily said as I squeezed his hands.
"Thanks, Minako... For accepting me."
"Of course, Senpai. You all accepted me, we all accepted Fuuka, why wouldn't we accept you. We're a family, remember?" I said as I gave him a warming smile.
He smiled back at me. "I'm gonna head upstairs. I want to get myself ready for tonight."
"Alright, senpai."
He left us and walked upstairs, so I walked towards the others. "Mitsuru wants to talk to you all about the recent midterm results. She's on the top floor. It's important." I said hinting at our battle tonight.
"Oh... I got it." Yukari nodded her head. "I guess if Mitsuru-senpai wants to check our results, then I guess there's nothing we can do. Come on guys."
"Yeah, I guess so. Time to face the music. Hopefully, senpai will let me off for my score." Junpei said stretching.
"See you, Naoto-chan." Fuuka waved.
Soon the others funnelled upstairs leaving Nao-chan and I alone.
I sat down next to her and she rested her head on my shoulder. "So, what's really going on?" Nao-chan asked out of the blue, which caught me of guard.
"W-What are you talking about?"
"The way everyone's acting, they're too stiff. And you were gone for hours. Surely a quick chat with your senpai doesn't warren that. Something else is going on."
I looked at the clock...
Just a couple of minutes till midnight. Until the Dark Hour. Our final Dark Hour. One way or another it ends tonight. "I just want you to know, Nao-chan. I love you. You were always there for me, especially when I needed it the most. I'm glad you didn't abandon me like so many others have. You were always someone I looked up to. And I'm sorry for this. If we don't do this, you can blame it on me. At least we get to see our parents again." I said as tears ran down my face. Hugging her for probably the last time.
Nao-chan was just stunned in silence. I pulled her into my arms. Then take me with you. You both need to come back. I'm there then I can make sure. You, Grandfather and Minato are the last piece if family I care about. So, whatever it is you're all doing, don't you dare die."
Then the clock struck midnight. I let go of Nao-chan as she transmogrified into a coffin. Then the familiar green glow from the sickly moon appeared.
Sorry, Nao-chan but this is something only we can do. I wiped away the stray tears from my eyes. "Are you all right Mina?"
I turned around and saw Onii-chan with his sword in hand. He then loomed in front of me. "I see. Did she say anything?"
"She said we better not die."
Onii-chan chuckled. "That sounds like her." Onii-chan then beckoned me to come closer. "Everyone's waiting."
I nodded my head. "Of course." I turned back around at Nao-chan's transmogrified coffin.
This is it then. Goodbye Nao-chan.
A/N - Right to start off with, I gave Minako a new persona as it symbolises that she no longer wishes to die, she wants to live her life to the fullest. Although, she hasn't had those thoughts for a while, ultimately deciding to face her parents when they fuse together, changed her outlook. Now the reason why I had Chidori remember everyone, is simple because of the life Junpei has lived. From a drunk and abusive Dad to finally, meeting the girl of his dreams and watching her die. I just wanted Junpei to finally get a happy ending. The same for Akihiko, his sister died in a fire at their Orphanage and then his best friend died. I wanted him to be true to himself and accept his feelings for his best friend.