Chapter XIX
White Christmas Joy; New Year Full Circle (ホワイトクリスマスジョイ; 新年フルサークル)
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Tis the night before Christmas Eve. Not a single Shadow, Yokai, Lost, and Yami Matter activity stirred. Everything outside human activity was low key.
However, one entity managed to go awry past this early-Christmas Eve.
This entity assumed the appearance of a fried chicken company ambassador.
Two brave Thieves and a Revenant went about to greet this troublesome spirit before a curse could be spread.
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Meiji Jingu Stadium (明治神宮スタジアム)/Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/December 24, 2019 (2019年12月24日) (Reality: December 24, 2021)/12:30 AM (JST)
Arriving in the empty baseball stadium, Queen, Noir, and Engineer scoured the fields. They sensed an ectoplasmic presence materializing within their vicinity. The three vigilantly scanned their surroundings. Engineer's keen ears heard laughter akin to an older man's. A cool wind quickly brushed against them, causing them to turn around.
A few of the arena lights turned on, revealing the presence haunting them. Etched on the trio's faces were looks of bewilderment. The figure, with a cane in hand, is the splitting image of Colonel Sanders, the late founder and mascot of Kentucky Fried Chicken. He has the bleached white mustache and goatee with his trademark white suit to match. A pair of thick black glasses adorned his face. An unpretentious smile, which hadn't diminished from his face, greeted the trio.
Tapping the ground with his cane, Colonel Sanders smirked. "Howdy, how are we this fine evening?"
"Is this really the entity we've been looking?" Engineer blinked in befuddlement. "He looks familiar."
"That's Colonel Harland Sanders. He's the founder and ambassador of the Kentucky Fried Chicken brand. You always see his face on the company logo," Noir explained, utilizing her food brand knowledge.
"Oooh, right! No wonder I can recognize his face," Engineer intently glared down the Colonel Sanders entity. "So, are we fighting the spirit of Colonel Sanders?"
"I'm not really the man you know as Colonel Sanders, but I am an extension of him. A piece of his spirit attached itself to the statue you Japanese built in his honor, but you added to one day throw it away into a river 34 years ago." The Colonel Sanders spirit reminisced an incident involving the neglect of his statue. A dark purple aura enveloped the Colonel's rotund frame. His kind, southern-accented voice became darker and distorted. "After those reckless baseball fans threw my statue into the Dotonbori River, their team won their first Central League in 21 years."
Engineer gasped. "He's talking about the Hanshin Tigers."
"Indeed, young man. Apparently, they saw a physical resemblance between an American player from their team and myself. They saw it fit to throw me into the river after winning the national championship."
"That was in 1985." Queen furrowed her brows and readied a fighting stance.
"That's when I placed a curse on your team. Since then, they never won another game. Then, 24 years ago after being thrown into that river, my statue was rediscovered. Although, not every piece of me was recovered!" The Colonel said with anger in his tone. Despite venting his frustrations, his trademark smile hadn't left him. "Both my hands and glasses went missing. They thought by retrieving my statue, the curse would be lifted. Well, have you checked those blasted Tigers? They still ain't won a game since."
"Since the statue's hands and the glasses haven't been retrieved, the curse remains intact. At least, that's how the urban legend goes." Noir concluded. Putting a hand out, she summoned her axe. "Judging by the nature of that aura, the Yami Matter was drawn to your malicious spiritual essence and summoned you here to find us."
"So, why don't we exorcise this poltergeist and lift the curse for the Tigers? They're long overdue for another championship." Engineer suggested to his ladies.
Once again clapping down his cane, the Colonel Sanders spirit gave a hearty laugh. "Well, shall we dance then, young man and you lovely ladies?!" He summoned a 6-foot tall red and green-feathered domesticated rooster with round, cartoonish eyes.
"Huh, now why didn't I see this coming?" Engineer shrugged, readying his Ogre-Type Blood Veil. He shot his demonic arm at the large rooster.
After letting out a loud crow, the fowl instinctively hopped over the demonic hand and stayed airborne while flapping its wings. The fowl then lunged toward Engineer, who barrel-rolled from the rooster's reach. Evading the rooster's clawed feet, Engineer countered the fowl's kicks with his hand.
Leaving his rooster to occupy the Revenant, the Colonel conjured a white hen in his right hand. Queen and Noir swiftly ran at the Colonel. As Queen charged for a strike, the Colonel turned the hen around as it fired a barrage of eggs at Queen. Utilizing her fists, Queen crushed every egg with lightning fast strikes.
As she lunged for the Colonel, Noir raised her axe for a head strike, but the Colonel vanished. He quickly rematerialized behind Noir. Preparing for another egg barrage, the Colonel was cut off by Queen's Ultimate Persona, Anat. Riding on Anat, Queen interceded the Colonel. Anat fired at and blasted the Colonel with Flash Bomb. Dealing some damage to the Colonel, Queen jumped off her Persona motorcycle and unleashed a flurry of punches. The Colonel tossed his hen at her, which exploded into a clutter of feathers.
"Ugh, damn it!" Queen fiercely cursed and punched through the feather shower. The feathers helped obscure the Colonel's presence from Queen's view.
Taking advantage of the blinded Queen, the Colonel popped off the top of his cane, unveiling a sword.
"Mako-chan!" Noir cried out as she ran at and swung her axe over the Colonel. The Colonel swiftly dodged the axe, narrowly escaping Noir's death blow. She swung her axe again, but the Colonel defended with his cane sword.
However, the lady's axe snapped the Colonel's cane in two. Tossing his broken cane aside, the Colonel jumped away, distancing himself from Noir's savage offense. However, Queen then ran into and drove an elbow into his back. With a roundhouse kick, she knocked the Colonel forward, sending him toward the center of the baseball sandlot.
"Hey, Colonel! Here's the wind up and the pitch!" Engineer yelled out, punching the giant rooster toward him.
Upon dodging the giant fowl, the Colonel was left open for Queen and Noir's double team. Noir threw her axe at the Colonel. The Colonel evaded Noir's weapon, but as soon as he did that he dropped his guard. Queen quickly slipped in front of the Colonel and landed a Nuclear Fist, uppercutting the Colonel into the air.
"Do it, Noir!" Queen called out to her lover.
As soon as he came to, the Colonel's field of vision suddenly split in two. Gazing upward, he saw Noir with her axe having been swung. As his body split in half, rays of white light leaked out and engulfed him.
"I'm sorry they disrespected your statue. On behalf of myself, who's going to continue my father's food business, please rest in peace," Noir gave a prayer as the Colonel's body dissolved into spiritual dust.
Upon summoning Astarte, Noir and her Ultimate Persona's One-shot Kill obliterated the giant rooster.
Before fading completely, the Colonel left them parting words. "Thank you, young lady... the curse has been lifted." With that, Colonel Sander's vengeful spirit was purified and returned to the afterlife.
After the battle, Noir healed Queen and Engineer with Amrita Drop.
"Well, that was a fun Christmas Eve outing," Engineer chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. He got passive looks from his girlfriends.
"Now his spirit can rest easy," Noir genuinely said.
"Well, hopefully they can find those missing pieces of his statues before he decides to come back and cause trouble again," Queen stated.
"I don't think we'll have to worry about him again, Mako-chan."
Engineer interjected. "As much as I'd like some blood, that fight made me hungry for some KFC." As he said this, Queen and Noir exchanged stupefied looks, eliciting giggles from them. "Um, I take that as a 'yes'?"
Queen turned to him. "Maybe."
Noir tipped her hat and winked. "Only if we're buying for everyone."
"Everyone, huh? Well, a KFC-styled Christmas dinner it is."
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Café Leblanc (純喫茶ルブラン)/Yongen-Jaya, Tokyo (四軒茶屋, 東京)/December 25, 2019 (2019年12月25日) (Reality: December 25, 2021)/6:30 PM (JST)
Dropping seven buckets full of KFC chicken on a long table, Louis, Makoto, Haru, Ryuji, and Miyako returned with Christmas dinner to celebrate.
Meeting in Ren's former attic room, the Thieves and Revenants amassed near the table. They quickly opened the buckets and started taking all they can get their hands on. Several of them looked around the attic, which was cleaned by Ren for this special Christmas occasion. Sitting on the table's center, a small 3-foot tall green Christmas tree added to the wholesome scenery.
"Man, being here together brings back memories," Ryuji remarked, facing Ren, Ann, and Morgana. "I remember when it was just us four."
"Hard to believe, huh?" Ann added, wholesomely smiling.
"Congratulations on the baby, Ann! I'm so excited!" Miyako gleefully squeed.
"Thank you."
"Oh yeah. He's due next month!" Futaba approached her as Makoto and Haru put their ears on Ann's belly. "That makes me an auntie then, Ren."
"Auntie Futaba? I never thought I'd hear that." Yusuke rolled his eyes.
"If you're going to be an 'auntie', shouldn't you play the part and grow some wrinkles around the face?" Ren sardonically teased Futaba much to her annoyance.
"Hey, shut it, jerk!" Futaba retorted.
"Indeed, some of us are going to be aunties very soon. So, which of us offers to babysit the child first?" Haru asked, sneakily smiling before raising her own hand and lifting Makoto's hand. "Why I elect Mako-chan and myself of course!"
"Whoa! Wait a minute!" Makoto nearly protested.
"Aww, I wanted first dibs!" Mia whined.
"No fair! I'm his real auntie!" Futaba shouted, fiercely flailing her arms in protest.
"Well, step in line because Mako-chan and I called babysitting duties first," Haru openly and proudly declared, winking to Makoto, who gave a nervous chuckle.
"Sure, I guess. I've never really handled kids before."
"It'll be ok, Mako-chan. We'll take a step at a time."
Louis interceded, patting Makoto's shoulder. "You two will make great aunties."
"But, I wanted first dibs, dammit!" Futaba quickly cut them off.
"Well, perhaps you'd like to babysit Jack and I's child?" Eva offered Futaba, sitting on chair as she finished a plate of chicken legs and a breast.
"Damn, you put that thing away, Eva!" Ryuji gawked at the plate full of chicken bones. There was not a sign of meat or fat on the bones.
"Don't underestimate a woman's appetite during pregnancy," Jack added with a grin.
Just then, everyone watched Ann put away two plates full of fried chicken, fries, and mashed potatoes. She let out a loud burp much to everyone's dismay. She realized what she had done and covered her mouth.
"Oh god, I'm so sorry!" Ann apologetically cried out. "But, Eva's right. We're feeding not just ourselves, but another hungry mouth." Facing Eva, Ann affectionately smiled to the pregnant Revenant.
"Right, so let's both look forward to giving birth to new lives."
"Man, I can't believe my two best friends are gonna have a kid. I hope the kid will like his uncle Ryuji!"
Miyako giggled, playfully prodding Ryuji's side. "Heheh, I'm sure the kid will love you!"
"I'd be more than happy to paint portraits of the children," Yusuke offered to draw a portrait of Ren & Ann and Jack & Eva's soon-to-be born children
"We'd love that. Thank you," Eva nodded in approval to Yusuke's request.
"We expect nothing but the best work from you, Yusuke," Ann genuinely smiled.
Just then, Louis raised a glass.
"How about a toast? Not only to this festive Happy Holiday season, but a reflection over our friendship the past year," Skyler addressed everyone with a sake cup raised. He smiled to Hifumi and Io, both of whom stood next to him with sake and juice cups raised. "The new additions to our team." He acknowledged Jack and Eva with glances. "And honoring those we've lost."
Louis closed his eyes to pay his respects for Cruz.
"But, most of all, here's a toast to a stable future after we beat Mido and the Yami Matter," Ren firmly stated as he, the other Thieves, and the Revenants raised their cups and glasses together in solidarity.
The group chimed in unison. "A Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday to us all!"
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Shinjuku Toho Building/Toho Cinemas Shinjuku/Kabukichō (歌舞伎町)/Shinjuku, Tokyo (新宿区, 東京)/December 27, 2019 (2019年12月27日) (Reality: December 27, 2021)/7:38 PM (JST)
As they entered the theater, the Thieves and the Revenants sat together in anticipation of the latest and last chapter of the Skywalker saga, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Rin, Shiho, Shinya, Nicola, Reiko, and Li-Ming are also present with the group.
"The time has finally come, hasn't it?" Ren asked, shifting his head and veering his eyes over the other Thieves and Revenants. Facing his right, he saw Ann ravenously eating a handful of fresh popcorn.
Noticing her husband giving an amused look, Ann put down the popcorn bag and closed it. He chuckled and opened up the bag to grab himself some popcorn.
"Don't worry, eat as much as you and the baby need to," Ren encouraged his wife to feed for two.
"Right, I just didn't want to make myself look like a pig."
"You're not. You're still my beautiful angel."
Hearing this, Ann's cheeks blushed and pouted. "Oh, stop, silly."
"Yeah, it's the end of Star Wars, isn't it?" Ryuji realized the length of time that the movie series has lasted.
"I doubt it. They'll make more of those side story movies and shows, but I think the Skywalker stuff might be finished. The very first movie came out in 1977 before any of us here was born." Louis stated with confidence.
"I find it hard to believe Star Wars has lasted this long in cinema," Makoto said. "The original movies came out before me and Sae were born. Father watched them with us and those gave us cherished memories."
"I can't say these movies gave me those kind of memories, but they were entertaining. Mind you, the first ones I saw were with Anakin and young Obi-Wan." Mia revealed her first exposure to the long running space opera franchise.
"That kinda sounds about right for me, too," Shiho added. "I was a kid when I saw those on TV."
"Wow, same! Those movies were favorites of mine before I saw the originals," Rin stated.
"Originals al the way for me!" Futaba gleefully boasted.
"Well, Io here just saw all of the Star Wars movies for the first time." Skyler said, facing the pale Revenant's way.
"Wait, you mean all of the originals, those prequels, and the new Disney ones?" Ren asked him.
"Yeah, over the past year, we watched them in anticipation of this movie. Io really enjoyed them."
Hifumi then added to Skyler's point. "That's right. Io enjoyed the space adventures and the lightsaber battles. It has been a while since I've seen any of these movies. I've only watched a few of them and stopped at some point."
Skyler put his hands on Hifumi and Io's hands. "And thanks to us, we've caught Hifumi up."
"Still, I wonder with the mixed reactions to the last couple of movies," Futaba pointed out the recent controversies within the Star Wars fanbase. "Nah, nearly everyone forgot that Solo movie."
"But, didn't The Last Jedi pretty much split the fanbase?" Ryuji asked.
"Sure, it did some damage, but it's been mostly whining and complaining from a vocal group online. I've even engaged a few of these vocal jerks online myself." The glass-wearing otaku illustrated the vocal discontent with the recent Star Wars movies. She then evilly grinned. "It was fun poking holes in their dumb arguments."
"But, I'm sure you've had issues with that movie, too?" Yusuke queried to her. "I recall you didn't like parts of it, Futaba?"
"Well, sure. The middle part of the film got a little boring for me and I think Luke could've been handled better. Feh, nothing beats my favorite, The Empire Strikes Back."
"I always prefer The Return of the Jedi myself," Ryuji stated.
"Revenge of the Sith for me!" Shinya raised his hand.
"Wow, someone's top fave is a prequel film? Interesting," Futaba coyly smirked toward Shinya. "So, you and your friends are mostly familiar with the prequels and the new ones?"
"Yeah, we watched the new films together. Those are the ones we grew up on," Nicola said, referring to the Disney films.
"We didn't dislike the The Last Jedi. We thought it was a good movie. We saw that and The Force Awakens with our families." Reiko said.
"Well, I saw The Force Awakens by myself since mom was too busy," Shinya sighed, recalling every time his mother had to decline taking him due to work commitments. "My mom did eventually take me to see Rogue One and The Last Jedi."
Makoto folded her arms and smiled. "Well, I thought The Last Jedi was a decent film. I think it's good it challenged movie-goers and dared to take risks."
Haru genuinely smiled. "Everyone has their different viewpoints about that movie, don't they? I just wish we could agree to disagree on entertainment mediums. Speaking as someone who runs and has stakes in my company, I have varied opinions about our foods we have to take into consideration. We must appease our customers."
"Not if those customers are being complete dicks," Louis voiced his displeasure with rude customers who've badmouthed Haru over any lack of food quality. "Voice your concerns, but don't threaten the people working on the products."
"Right, we should agree to disagree. I may not like the direction of some of the new movies, but I won't be an asshole to y'all." Futaba concurred.
Makoto turned to Futaba. "But, we could have a healthy debate about The Last Jedi."
"Sure, and I contest why The Empire Strikes Back is the best."
Yusuke muttered. "So, is anyone going to mention Star Trek?"
"Please, that's a whoooooole can of worms I don't wanna open! That fan rivalry goes waaaay back before our time" Futaba added about the fan rivalry between the two popular Sci-Fi franchises.
"Speaking of fans, check out those cosplayers out!" Shinya pointed to a group dressed as Star Wars characters. Three Storm Troopers, a Darth Maul, and a Darth Vader showed up to take their seats.
"Yeah, but look at them over there!" Rin pointed out to a specific group of cosplayers, dressed as characters not seen in the Star Wars films.
One such cosplayer was a young woman with reddish orange hair styled in braided pigtails. A pair of goggles adorned the top of her hair. She had on a form-fitting black sleeveless bodysuit, a light brown ranger cloak, black and brown elbow-length gloves, a blue green article of clothing around her waist, two leather waist belts intersecting in an X shape, and knee-length dark brown boots.
"Whoa, isn't that the Kozmo Farmgirl?!" Shinya recognized her.
"That's one of the Kozmo Duel Monsters from the Yu-Gi-Oh! game." Nicola verified.
"Now that's a cool cosplay!" Reiko said.
"I see, there's others with her. Are they part of those Kozmo Duel Monsters, too?" Mia asked her brother.
"Yeah, the one with the green painted skin, the pointy ears and golden curls is Kozmo Goodwitch," Nicola pointed to the one sitting next to the farmgirl cosplayer.
"She looks like Yoda," Li-Ming stated.
"The one with the black mask and black witch's hat is Kozmoll Dark Lady. She's supposed to be like Darth Vader. The other with the black cloak and double sided red lightsaber is Kozmo Wickedwitch. She's like Darth Maul," Nicola finished pointing to the all-female Kozmo cosplay group.
"We need to take pics of them after the movie!" Shinya declared.
"I'm taking one with the Farmgirl," Reiko affirmed.
Just then, the lights started to dim and the previews finished.
"Movie's about to start, guys. Time for us to go to a galaxy far, far away," Futaba whispered.
As everyone settled in their seats, Skyler handed popcorn and candy to Hifumi and Io. After getting her snack, Io waited in anticipation for the The Rise of Skywalker crawl came up.
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When seeing Rey, Finn, and Poe on screen together, some members in the group were delighted to see the three leads.
Ren whispered. "So, right there that would've been Luke, Leia, and Han, but Shinya, for you and your friends, these three are the characters you've followed."
Shinya nodded. "Yeah, 'cause we were little kids when we first saw them in The Force Awakens. And now we're first year high school students."
Nicola asserted. "That's right. So, we grew up with these movies."
"But, I was introduced by Anakin, Obi-Wan, and the Clone Wars stuff on TV," Shinya muttered. "So, those introduced me to Star Wars. I wasn't even born when those movies came out in theaters."
"That was the same with me, but then I watched the originals," Ren said. "These new movies are ok, but don't resonate as well for me."
"It's a generational thing," Skyler stated. "People like me and Ren prefer the originals and grew up on those prequels. Shinya, you and your friends were introduced through the prequels but grew up on these new movies."
Mia nodded. "Taking my brother to see these movies opened my eyes to how impactful these movies are."
"For better or for worse. Hearing the mixed reviews about this though..." Louis plainly stated.
"It's better if you watched and formed your opinion, and not let others decide for you," Makoto said.
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A few of the couples were immersed with the Rey and Kylo moments, particularly Skyler & Hifumi, Ren & Ann, Makoto & Haru, Yakumo & Emily, and Shinya & Reiko.
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The Knights of Ren appearing was an anticipated moment for some.
"Cool, it's great the Knights are in this," whispered Skyler.
"They look like Kamen Rider bad guys," Shinya remarked.
"Hell yeah! It's about time they showed up!" Futaba chuckled.
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The reveal of Palpatine surviving Return of the Jedi and Rey being his granddaughter elicited surprised and dismayed responses from group members.
"So, Snoke's just been a bunch of clones this whole time and Palpatine lived? He's the mastermind behind the First Order essentially," Futaba rolled her eyes, based on her tone she pretended to be surprised. "Gee, how convenient. So, Anakin never brought balance to the Force."
"Well, that just means Rey can bring balance to the Force," Rin whispered.
"Yeah, but all that effort and Vader's sacrifice meant nothing. Nearly everyone from the originals are dead and Palpatine lived. They don't even explain how the creepy fucker survived. Like, W. T. F." Futaba vented her displeasure.
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Scenes such as Leia's passing and Han Solo's force presence bonding with his son, Ben, drew some sad emotion from the crowd.
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The group already witnessed the final battles. Once again, the group's reactions are mixed.
"Hmm, ok. That was cool how she took down the Emperor," Reiko said.
"Hah, really? I thought I was funny how she finished him," Nicola chuckled.
"Well, that was quite the climactic showdown, wasn't it?" Skyler asked Hifumi and Io.
"Not quite what I expected. Io liked it when Rey crossed those lightsabers. I admit that was pretty cool."
Io smiled. "I would've preferred a little more blood."
Ryuji snickered. "Yeah, that ain't gonna happen. Star Wars doesn't have gore."
Miyako added. "I'm kinda glad it doesn't."
"These movies are not known for blood," Makoto commented.
Ren sighed. "Looks like some of us were content but others are just dead inside."
Ann elbowed Ren's side. "So, how did you take to it?"
The Phantom Thief leader slumped back in his seat. "...it was alright."
Mia sighed. "Did Leia have to die? That was sad."
Sitting on Mia's lap, Morgana whispered. "So, that means most of the originals are dead. Yeah, I can see why a few of you feel conflicted."
"But, some of us got some emotional investment," Haru said.
"For better or for worse, right, Futaba?" Yusuke asked his friend.
"Mixed bag for me," Futaba remarked.
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The last scene appears before the credits roll.
The last words muttered from Rey and another character are heard from the theater speakers.
"I'm Rey."
"Rey who?"
"Rey Skywalker."
The final shot of the movie is Rey looking beyond the horizon of the desert land of Tatooine toward the binary suns, reminiscent of Luke before her.
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The movie ended. Many clapped for the movie, but others stayed in their seat allowing the movie's moments to resonate with them. Some tried to process everything they had seen.
The Rise of Skywalker like The Last Jedi before it elicited a mixed response from this theater audience, except for different reasons. The disappointment came from mostly unanswered questions and trying to correct the 'errors' caused by the previous eighth Skywalker saga film. However, the positive response came during the big battle sequences and emotional moments.
Unlike Dragon Ball Super: Broly and Avengers: Endgame, the Thieves and Revenants were still processing the movie.
Clenching her teeth hard, Futaba sighed. "Ok, so that wasn't too bad, but still... so much baggage to process."
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10:16 PM (JST)
While Shinya and his friends took pics with the Kozmo Farmgirl and the Kozmo cosplayers, the Thieves and Revenants shared their overall thoughts on the film.
"Well, I actually liked that film," Haru said.
"Me, too. I was there for those Rey and Kylo moments," Ann happily gleamed.
"I would agree. I enjoyed it, but it's a step below the previous one," Makoto honestly expressed.
"But, aren't all the third movies in each Star Wars saga usually the weakest?" Yakumo asked.
"Not Revenge of the Sith. Many argue it's the best of the prequel trilogy," Louis corrected his Revenant colleague.
"That's not too hard to accomplish. I mean look what came before it," chuckled Rin.
"And hey! I liked Return of the Jedi!" Ryuji openly confessed. "I guess I'm the only one who liked that one the best from the originals."
Skyler chuckled. "Not really. I like that one, too."
Yusuke pivoted toward Futaba. "But, I bet this was your favorite film in the series, huh? It beats out Empire Strikes Back?"
"I know you're being a dick, Inari, but don't even…" Futaba shoved a hand in his face. "There were just a few parts that rubbed me the wrong way. That's all. It's not a bad movie. Attack of the Clones and The Phantom Menace still take the cake for being the worst pieces of trash."
With Morgana on his shoulder, Ren expressed his thoughts. "I might have to agree with Futaba here. They didn't explain certain details like how the Emperor survived."
"Not to mention this movie wasn't daring like The Last Jedi," Makoto pointed out.
"Well, that's not what I meant to say. This film felt like its own trilogy told in one movie. It was alright. It didn't make me upset or anything." The Phantom Thief leader said. "That said, I had a good time watching with you guys."
"And that's all that matters," Ann concurred with her husband's final sentiments.
"Good or bad, this is our final movie get together for the year," Hifumi said. "Those are the memories I wish to cherish most."
"Wouldn't you agree to that, Futaba?" Yusuke reached over a handshake.
Futaba gave a light chuckle. "Oh, how can I argue? This movie may or may not grow on me." She grabbed and shook Yusuke's hand. "But, hey, I still have The Mandalorian and that Fallen Order game to look forward to. It's not a total loss."
"But, how are you able to watch that?" Mia asked.
"Sis, I think it's already out on the Disney Plus," Nicola said.
"Really?! Hey, you want to watch it, Shiho?" Mia asked her.
"Sure, you name the time and place."
"Isn't Baby Yoda cute?" Reiko asked Shinya.
"Yeah, real cute," sardonically remarked the teen.
"I'll be posting the Kozmo cosplay on my twitter with my Baby Yoda memes," Li-Ming said, showing Nicola her photos and meme pictures. "Wait, nah. Forget that. Now, it's all about that Baby Sonic!"
Reiko scanned over her twitter pics. "Oh, so that's Baby Sonic? He's so cute!"
Shinya sighed. "Oh joy, Baby Yoda's got competition."
"What's Baby Sonic?" Mia asked her brother.
Nicola plainly answered. "It's the baby Sonic the Hedgehog for that new movie coming out."
"Oh, another baby fad?" Shiho checked her twitter feed. Her face gleamed and cheeks blushed. "Oh, he's so cute!"
"We'll see how long these baby fads last until the next 'baby' thing," Futaba nonchalantly shrugged.
"Well, if anything let this movie remind us that Star Wars can bring old and new generations like us together. And unlike assholes on the internet, we're still hear having friendly conversations and peaceful debates. We won't let any divide in a fanbase split our friendship," Skyler openly stated.
"Amen to that, my friend," Louis concurred as Makoto and Haru folded their arms over him.
"Even for us. Thanks for the invite," Jack said as he and Eva walked away.
"No, thank you for joining us," Hifumi bowed as the couple waved to them.
"Farewell and be safe," Io said with an endearing smile as she and the others watched them leave.
"So, the next group meeting is New Years?" Ryuji asked Ren.
"Yep."
"We hope we'll see you all there," Hifumi genuinely said.
"New Years, here we come!" Hollered Ryuji as he raised his clenched fists into the air.
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Meiji Shrine (明治神宮)/Shibuya, Tokyo (渋谷区, 東京)/December 31, 2019 (2019年12月31日) (Reality: December 31, 2021)/11:56 PM (JST)
It was the eve before the New Year. The Thieves and Revenants met near their old training grounds. They came in their winter gear, consisting of coats, hoodies, beanies, gloves, and coats. After giving prayers, they looked at their smartwatches and smartphones, counting down to the very last minute to 2020.
"Any last words you want to give to the old year?" Yakumo asked Emily, who turned him around for a kiss.
"Yeah, I'm not gonna miss you, 2019!" Emily said as she and Yakumo leaned for a kiss.
The other couples and friends huddled close with other shrine visitors. The other notable couples and close companions, Skyler & Hifumi, Ren & Ann, Louis, Makoto & Haru, Ryuji & Miyako, Mia & Shiho, Yusuke & Futaba, Jack & Eva, Shinya & Reiko, and Nicola & Li-Ming, counted in unison for the final seconds.
"5!"
"4!"
"3!"
"2!"
"1!"
"HAPPY NEW YEAR!" They enthusiastically shouted together.
The fireworks lit up and covered the New Year night sky with varied colorful explosive blasts. This went on for another 20 minutes, giving onlookers enough time to admire the fireworks while reflecting on the past year and mentally preparing for a new year.
Some of the couples, namely Ren & Ann, Jack & Eva, Yakumo & Emily, Mia & Shiho, and Ryuji & Miyako, kissed to start off the New Year. Others like Yusuke & Futaba and the teens held hands.
Louis, Makoto, and Haru met for a three-way kiss, initiating in lip locking and affectionately kissing each other's faces and lips.
Upon seeing the threesome couple initiate in their love fest, Hifumi and Skyler went for a passionate kiss. Then, Io swiftly interjected as she kissed Hifumi and Skyler's lips. She then some lip locking with Hifumi and Skyler. Though surprised by Io's loving approach, Hifumi and Skyler didn't mind.
Io pulled away, gently smiling. "Thank you for all the times we've spent together. Let us continue to create more cherishable memories."
"Indeed, and here's to a prosperous New Year for us," Hifumi lovingly stated as she and Io lip locked with Skyler, passionately kissing and licking each other's faces out in public.
Upon seeing the three-way couples openly share their affection, the teens watched. With her hands on her cheeks, Reiko blushed and turned to Shinya.
"Hey, get rooms!" Shinya called out before Reiko pulled him in for a quick peck on his lips, which startled him. "Whoa! What was that for?!" He turned to Reiko as she giggled innocently.
"Oh, you're going to get it now, Reiko!" Shinya evilly grinned as he chased Reiko around.
Watching Shinya chase Reiko around, Nicola chuckled to himself.
"Crazy kids," Nicola remarked as he and Li-Ming laughed together.
As they finished kissing, Skyler, Hifumi, and Io became immersed with the fireworks display. Knowing a New Year was ahead for them, they were going to make the most of it, more so than the previous one.
xxxxx
Tokyo Dome (東京ドーム)/Bunkyo, Tokyo (文教, 東京)/January 5, 2020 (2020年1月5日) (Reality: January 5, 2022)/7:30 PM (JST)
With a new year, a legendary career for one of Japan's famed wrestlers is set to end at Wrestle Kingdom 14. Unlike previous years, which were normally one night events, this show was extended to two nights on January 4th and 5th.
Tonight is the final match for Jushin 'Liger' Thunder. Being a big fight fan, Ryuji didn't want to miss the end of the legend's career. He and Miyako invited Makoto, Haru, Louis, Yakumo, Emily, Yusuke, Futaba, and Rin.
After the first match passed, the big match was set to begin. A man emerged, seemingly coming straight out of a Tokusatsu hero show fully garbed in a full-bodied red, white and silver suit. Concealing his identity behind a mask, the famous wrestler's iconic identity was a red and gold mask with crown spikes. Upon entering the ring, Jushin climbed on a ringpost and posed for the fans enamored by his presence. He teamed with another Japanese wrestler named Naoki Sano and competed against Ryu Lee & Hiromu Takahashi.
"Wow, I can hardly believe this is it for him. After this, Jushin's pretty much retired," Yakumo commented.
"Yeah! You're the man, Liger!" Ryuji hollered to the legendary wrestler. Dressed for the occasion, he wore a bright red NJPW shirt with a golden lion face embellished on the center. The words 'King of Sports' aligned on top of the lion in bold red. 'New Japan Pro-Wrestling' aligned beneath the lion in bold yellow.
"Getting really excited, aren't we?" Miyako giggled over her boyfriend's enthused spirit.
"It's his last match! No way was I missing this!"
"But, weren't you, Miyako, Makoto, Haru, Louis, and Futaba here for the first event last night?" Louis asked them.
"Yeah, but that wasn't even Liger's last match. I want to be there for his final matches."
"Besides, Wrestle Kingdom 14 has been hyped for months. I sure didn't want to miss this!" Futaba shared Ryuji's highly spirited enthusiasm.
"These tickets were awfully expensive," Yusuke said.
"But, they were totally worth it! I'm glad you could come tonight, Inari!" Futaba roared, flailing her arms over her head.
"You're especially in a cheerier mood, Futaba," Rin noted.
"Well, Inari convinced me to watch The Rise of Skywalker again, but just the two of us. On a second viewing, that movie's not as bad as I thought. It might grow on me, but I still have my issues with it."
Makoto added with a modest smile. "Sounds like someone's done a complete 180."
"Like I said, it's growing on me and these wrestling shows have been fire. So, I'm content."
Eyeing Jushin Liger, Rin observed. "Doesn't he remind you of one of those characters from the Phoenix Ranger Featherman series?"
Futaba shrugged. "Eh, maybe bits of the aesthetics, but the inspiration for his wrestling gimmick came from the Jushin Liger anime from the 80s and 90s."
"Wow, you know this how?!" Rin gasped excitedly and pleaded for an answer from the otaku sage.
Lifting up her glasses, a sneaky grin adorned Futaba's face. "Because I know all."
"More like you have access to the 'interwebz' as you like to call it," Yusuke interjected.
"Well, that, too, but I am the biggest tokusatsu aficionado of the group." Futaba then whipped out her smartphone and showed her a youtube video of a Japanese man with black and white face paint wrestling a rotund American man with a crimson mask. "And I happen to know quite a bit of puroresu, too. See? The guy in the facepaint is Keiji Mutoh, who also happens to be the Great Muta. And this other guy with the mask is Big Van Vader."
Watching the men beating each other up, Rin nodded. "Wow! I can tell this is old because of the janky video quality!"
"Ahem, it's called a fan cam, girl. They didn't have HD cameras back in the 1990s."
"Right, I knew that!"
"And did you know other American wrestlers used to compete here?"
"Really?" Rin queried.
"Here we go," Yusuke sighed.
"Well, you know Hulk Hogan, right?"
"I think so?"
Futaba smirked as she showed Rin a video of one of Hogan's Japanese matches. "And he actually do more than pose and drop those dumb-looking legdrops."
"Oh, wow. Yeah, I recognize him! He was in a movie!"
"Yep, and you know that actor who plays Drax from Guardians of the Galaxy?"
"Uh-huh? Dave Batista?"
Futaba sneakily grinned. "He was a pro wrestler."
The Revenant's eyes lit up. "Oh, wow! I didn't know that!"
Yusuke facepalmed. "Oh, good grief, Futaba. You're feeding her too much information."
"Hey, at least I'm getting some kind of reaction out of her, Inari. Just 'cause contact fighting isn't your thing, doesn't mean you need to be a stick in the mud about it!"
Covering his ears, Yusuke shrugged. "Alright, fine. I'll put up with it for you."
"Thanks, Inari!"
Rin giggled. "You two bicker like an old married couple."
Upon hearing this, Futaba and Yusuke exchanged awkward but foolishly eccentric looks.
"I'm surprised to see you two here. You two don't strike me as wrestling fans." Yakumo addressed Makoto and Haru.
Folding her arms on her lap, Makoto genuinely smiled. "Well, you'd be surprised. I like physical contact sports. Besides, my late-father really enjoyed the wrestling shows. He even took me and sis to a couple of matches. We were there to see Jushin Liger compete."
Haru added with a smirk. "And I'm here just because I want to keep Mako-chan and Louis company. I'm also here to represent my company since Big Bang Burgers is one of Wrestle Kingdom's sponsors."
"And I'm here for the thrill of the show," Louis stated, sitting in between Makoto and Haru.
"Ssh, hey. The match's about to start," Emily whispered.
"Lord Jushin demands our silence," Futaba mumbled with a finger to her lips.
With that, Jushin wrestled his final match and opponents.
xxxxx
10:17 PM (JST)
"Man, what a show that was! I can't believe it's all over for Jushin!" Ryuji incredulously cried out.
"Guys, we just watched Lord Jushin's final match. Let's burn this into our memories." Futaba sadly muttered.
Emily sighed. "Aren't you guys being a little over dramatic?"
"Even careers have to come to an end," Yakumo plainly stated.
Nodding, Makoto added her views. "He's right. Wrestling is a very taxing and destructive career. All that damage done to the body, especially over the years, can take their toll. Jushin Liger was lucky he can still go at his age."
"Yeah, the same can't be said about those American wrestlers," Futaba said. "There's some that keep coming back from retirement. It's sad to watch."
"Well, hopefully Liger is smart to listen to his body and not his pride," Rin said. "Man, that was an incredible show! Some of us should do this again!"
"I think I'm out. This is not my sorta of thing. Futaba, perhaps you'd like to go with Rin next time?" Yusuke suggested.
"Eh, sure. I guess."
The group passed by a couple of giant posters with various professional wrestling icons from the past few generations. One framed poster has the iconic images of Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair. Another poster has Macho Man Randy Savage, 'Rowdy' Roddy Piper, the Ultimate Warrior, and Andre the Giant. A third poster has Bret 'the Hitman' Hart, Owen Hart, Shawn Michaels, and the Undertaker on it. A fourth framed poster has Triple H, Dave Batista, John Cena, and Rey Mysterio on it. A fifth poster has Mick Foley, Chyna, Sting, Big Van Vader, and Bruno Sammartino on it. A sixth poster has the Japanese icons Antonio Inoki, the Great Muta, Ultimo Dragon, and Jushin Liger on it.
Unbeknownst to the group, the residual side effects from the Yami Matter caused the wrestler's faces and eyes to turn toward the Thieves and Revenants. The Urban Myths monitored the group as they departed from the arena.
As they prepared to split off, Futaba paused.
"What is it, Futaba?" Yusuke queried to his friend.
"Hey, did you forget something?" Haru asked her.
"Yo, what's eating at ya?" Ryuji was befuddled by her sudden pause.
"Hey, um. Since the Yami Matter reset time by two years, 2020 already happened. Wouldn't that mean he just repeated his final match and retirement without realizing it?"
Everyone fell silent with this realization.
Then, Ryuji immediately ceased the silence. "Dudes, that's deep. How did I forget that?"
Makoto folded her arms. "You didn't. We can thank the Yami Matter for screwing everything up. I swear, we're going to restore time to the way it was before." With that, she garnered serious and determined glances from her friends and two lovers. "Let's make Mido and the Yami Matter regret messing with us."
xxxxx
Chapter Soundtrack
Schmoyoho - Chicken Attack (Song Voyage) - For the prologue scene of fighting the MOTW that is Colonel Sanders.
Persona 5 OST - Sunset Bridge - The gang meeting to eat KFC on Christmas. New Years group meet-up and reflection on the past year.
Star Wars Main Theme - The gang seeing The Rise of Skywalker in theaters.
NJPW - Wrestle Kingdom Theme - A song used in wrestling scene.
xxxxx
A/N: So, it's another cool-off chapter much like Ch. 19. We have a quick MOTW battle and the last one for the remainder of this story. Then, we have a KFC Christmas, the group checking out Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, a New Years celebration, and the gang going to a big wrestling show. All in all, a mostly chill (and deservedly so) holiday season for our heroes.
The ghost of Colonel Sanders is based off the urban legend. You can look it up. He gets dispatched fast. Since we're on the KFC subject, if you know your Japanese culture, then yes KFC is often consumed in Japan on Christmas Day. It's been a tradition for several decades.
Ah, yes, The Rise of Skywalker. We've seen the characters watch Broly and Endgame in theaters. This will be the third (on-screen) movie meet-up. And the response is mixed compared to the other two. This is to further illustrate how divisive the latest films have been (like Empire Strikes Back was surprisingly enough way back when) for audiences. As you can surmise, there's a split opinion on this movie much like episode 8. However, what's telling is the group's maturity over their viewpoints. This comes to show friends can agree to disagree without unwanted drama. Too bad, there's idiots from both differing sides on the 'Interwebz' who won't learn.
Side note: As of 12/26/19, I finally watched The Rise of Skywalker. I give it a 6/10. Futaba's opinions on the movie have slightly changed and mostly don't reflect my own views. After a second viewing with Yusuke, the film's grown on her. And the Baby Sonic thing that's catching up thanks to some Japanese trailer has been added last minute as of 12/27/19.
Moreover, between Shinya's group and Ren's, there is a generation gap for how they've been exposed to a franchise like Star Wars. For Shinya's group, their first exposure were the prequels and grew up on the Disney made films. With Ren and Skyler's groups, it's up in the air. Some were introduced by the prequels, others by the originals, and maybe one or two who started with the sequels. Mileages vary among these characters.
New Year (Ōmisoka) is often celebrated around shrines and Buddhist temples where people go to pray.
Finally, the last scene depicts of a yet to be determined event in our real time. It's the second night of the two day Wrestle Kingdom 14 event. Growing up, I was a wrestling fan. I still kinda keep up with it, but I don't watch much WWE anymore. I do watch AEW, though. However, I do respect and enjoy wrestling overseas, especially in Mexico and Japan. Yes, wrestling is considered a legit sport in Japan while here in the US it's often (and still) sneered at and treated like a circus show with second-rate soap opera storylines. I figured only a handful of the Thieves and Revenants can attend. Makoto and Haru being there makes sense based on their All Showtime Showcase (which has them beating up an enemy inside a wrestling ring) in Persona 5 Royal.
And finally, more Urban Myth appearances. This time being wrestling megastars from the past.
Well, that's it. This is the final update for 2019. The next chapter will be part 1 of a 3-part story arc and I can't wait to show it. That'll come shortly after the week of New Years.
There'll be more Urban Legends come 2020, a whole new decade! And with a new decade, I have huge plans for Akane no Mai's release next year, especially with P5R right around the corner. It's time to get excited.
Until the next update, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and a Happy New Year!