From The Shadows

by papapapuffyAY

Mitsuru has greatly underestimated what Kikuno has done and will do out of loyalty to her. Or Kikuno gets a persona. Mitsuru/Kikuno

Summary: Mitsuru has greatly underestimated what Kikuno has done and will do out of loyalty to her.

Or Kikuno gets a persona.

From The Shadows

The second Takeharu learned of the child experiments happening at their lab he put an end to it. The minute he laid eyes on the stoic twelve year old he "employed" her. She no longer had a family or a place to call home. In a painfully obvious guilty manner he promised that he would help her achieve whatever type of career she wanted for herself. Currently the child didn't have any dreams or ambitions for herself. As such Takeharu –on Mitsuru's suggestion- had her trained in maid-ly duties while homed schooled with the best teachers.

Once her normal school lessons lightened she took on other lessons such as security to become more of a jack of all trades type of help to the household. Deep down the events leading up to her unique situation put a bit of a toll on her mental state. Kikuno desired to be needed and useful to people she liked. If she didn't have that then what was left? When Takeharu had gifted her a Dark Hour ring and made her part of security at night during the Dark Hour. Granted nothing really ever happened –since they were away from the nest. Still the amount of pride she felt in herself lit a fire within her chest for the first time. She was even given the title of a bodyguard despite her apron.

All of it was to remain by her side. But it wasn't enough. It didn't do anything to help Mitsuru.

Not only was the person she wanted to serve never around the manner. Mitsuru was constantly in danger and with only the help of two rowdy school boys by her side. Well, one school boy according to the last report. A quiet sigh escaped her lips. So you can lose control of your persona? "Just to make sure, this won't happen to Lady Mitsuru, right?" By keeping her tone serious she was able to hide just how much she worried.

The man held his cigar over an ash tray watching the ashes fall with a grim expression. "Mitsuru has wonderful control over her persona while Aragaki never did." To be honest it didn't really lay to rest the concern budding in her chest. It wasn't as if the lanky boy awoke any differently from Mitsuru. Maybe it was only a matter of time –a timed bomb.

She stood and bowed low in front of his desk. "Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to me. I'll be returning to work now." Kikuno didn't need to hear a verbal dismissal and left shutting the door behind her.

Mitsuru sent monthly reports to her father it was the only way for her to know what was going on. Mitsuru never talked to her about shadows. She knew it was because the redhead wanted to keep her from the danger. While she appreciated the thought it was unnecessary. If anything it made her worry more.

There had to be something more she can do.

---

"Well, if it isn't Ms. Saikawa. To what do I owe the pleasure? Have you agreed to donate your body to Ergonomics Laboratory?" The familiar face of the old researcher sent a wave of disgust through her. She was partly shocked to find he was still employed here. Clearly there was still corruption in the Kirijo Labs. His sarcastic tone didn't help either. He was the one she saw the most as a test subject stuck to a hospital room. He mostly took blood from her every week and made her try various types of pills. While he never treated her particularly cruel he was still someone she found it hard to remain civil too.

Like most of the remaining researchers he was mad Takeharu stopped the funds and rights to the lab. Or at least that's what the Kirijo thought. Pathetic attempts and cries of 'we need to study potential for more persona users' fell on death ears. As much as she hated it they were right. Mitsuru and Sanada weren't enough to explore Tartarus. Who knew how long it would be before someone else awoken. Also would they join willingly? Neither Mitsuru nor Takeharu would force someone to fight against their will.

"Hardly, but I am interested in something and I know you're still doing research on it." The man frowned and narrowed his eyes. "I want all the information you have on implanting Plumes of Dusk into humans."

"How do you know about that?" He gasped out before realizing what a stupid question that was. She was active during the Dark Hour and was considered a part of security. There was really no restriction on where she could go or access. Though he couldn't figure out where she saw files though. "We don't know much; after all we didn't even get to try it yet. It was merely an idea proposed not that long ago."

"In your professional opinion what are the chances of losing control of that persona?"

The dark haired man scratched his chin and gave it serious thought. "To lose control of a persona one must have a persona to begin with. So I would say rather unlikely."

"What can you do on the unlikely chance that happens then?"

"Tranquilize the person and remove the plume should take care of it."

"Do you have the means to attempt it?"

"I do."

"Then prepare for it." There were flashes of different types of emotions that ran through the man's eyes. Without much hesitation he jumped up and ran around gathering tools. The factotum waited in the operating like area. She frowned when a younger man walked in. Kikuno didn't recognize him but the fact he wore a sadistic smirk made a bit of her confidence die a little. He constantly chuckled under his breath while prepping her heart monitor and IV.

The familiar scientist returned with a petri dish holding it with both hands like it was a gift from a God. The contents glowed with brilliant light, so bright she couldn't even see the plume's real shape. "This is a special plume. It belonged to a fifth generation anti-shadow suppression weapon on the verge of having a personality. So I feel this plume would have the most success to work above all the rest." The way he spoke reminded her of a child with a new toy. To be honest she didn't care about the logistic of it; just the results.

"Needless to say this will remain between the three of us." Kikuno merely glared at the third man; it didn't go unnoticed by the older man. "Sorry, but I clearly can't do the whole thing myself. Besides I have to make sure I can watch your vitals. We can't let the Kirijo head maid suffer any complications." If something happens to her all the Kirijos would find out. They wouldn't risk it. Understandable but that didn't mean she had to like it.

Especially when the newcomer started to touch her with a seemingly sadistic tendency. He brushed her hair out of her face while wearing a huge shit-eating grin. Did he plan on embedding it in the middle of her forehead or something? "I hope you can come up with a better location for this?" Her eyes narrowed. Evidently the researcher wasn't thinking clearly, this was supposed to be a secret after all. His expression faltered but his gaze drifted downward before his expression returned to normal.

"You're right, what kind of gentlemen would I be if I scared a lady's face?"

"My, it's almost as if you care." She gasped with feigned exaggerated surprise.

"That must mean I have permission...?" His hand trailed lower hooking around the collar of her hospital gown and tugging softly. Kikuno huffed giving no verbal reply as her eyes closed submissively. Seconds later she could feel someone walk around her to the IV hooking up the anesthesia. Before she could even count to ten her conscience faded in a sea of darkness.

Kikuno had a dream, probably. A young sounding girl was speaking to her, maybe? Actually she wasn't even sure. At least the lab didn't cheap out on the drugs. When the attendant woke up a momentary haze covered her mind. Upon seeing the older scientist's face the situation hit her in full. At least the other guy had left. "Successful?"

"Well, you aren't dead but really only time will tell if you summon anything or possibly go crazy."

"Fair enough." Her dark eyes glanced down to assess the damage. A clean bandage was wrapped around her chest. "How long am I here for?"

"Five to seven days."

"Not bad, I asked for four days off."

The man paused and looked up at her with skepticism and a raised eyebrow. "Only four days? At least get four weeks off. Did you forget what it's like to recover from something? Four to seven days here being watched then its four to eight weeks in home recovery. You basically just had a thoracotomy, did you really think you were going back to work in a few days?"

"…"

"Well, you were always a fast healer and we didn't cut that deeply. I'm sure you'll be up and cleaning toilets before you know it."

After a few days the servant was able to remove the bandages. The sutures had dissolved and her skin was scaring up. That fact she was already scaring up was probably the plume helping her heal. The incision started at the top of her sternum below her collar. She ran a finger over the raised keloid welt. The area was still pretty sore and she was beginning to think that wouldn't change unless the plume was removed.

She ran a wet cloth over the region for the first time in days. It wasn't as nice as an actual bath but she wasn't discharged from the lab yet. Kikuno patted the area dry and put her shirt back on. Seconds later she was greeted by her 'doctor'. "I'm shocked you're healing so well. Maybe you'll be trying to summon a persona in a week."

"The sooner the better. When can I return to work? I don't want anyone getting suspicious."

"Well, if you truly feel up to it I won't stop you. Just stop by during the dark hour to practice." It would at least be a week before she would return for practice. The home keeper wanted to make sure she could fill her normal duties without trouble before taking on more physical strains. Honestly she would rather take the extra eight weeks off just because she didn't want to return to this place so quickly.

He officially dismissed her before turning on his heel and walking off. That was all she needed to hear. Making sure she had all of her possessions –not that she came with much, she even had to borrow a disposable toothbrush- she made her way to the exit.

A sudden pulse reverberated through her chest making her reached for the wall just in case. Taking deep breathes she leaned against the wall for support looking around. It was weird like a feeling that something inhuman was around her. It made her heartbeat speed up sending signals to her flight or fight senses. Hobbling forward Kikuno walked by a storage room with a large locked casket that she didn't recall seeing before.

With as much dignity as she could muster the girl continued on still keeping one hand on the wall. The man had already given her pain pills and instructions. There wasn't anything else he could do so there was no reason to remain here.

The further away she got the weaker the pulse in her chest let out. That seemed highly unlikely to be a coincident. A logical guess to make would be that there was an anti-shadow suppression weapon unit. It was possible her plume was just reacting to being near another plume. By the time she was by the large outer wall of the lab everything felt normal within her. That seemed like enough proof for her theory.

The second she entered the familiar manor every muscle in her body relaxed. The dark haired girl headed towards her room to change out of her personal clothes and into her work uniform. The first thing she had to do was greet the madam and let her know of her return. Making sure her appearance was immaculate she knocked on the door to announce her arrival.

"Come in." Hanae's face brightened as Kikuno walked in. The elder woman placed her hard covered book to the side giving her full attention to her. "Ms. Kikuno, welcome back."

"Thank you, I'm glad to be back." She bowed and responded with sincerity. With a subtle nod she greeted the two other maids in the room who bowed towards her in return. The two attendants dismissed themselves leaving the older woman with her.

"How was your time off?"

"It was eventful." The factotum wouldn't lie saying it was fun. She said the bare minimum but kept it truthful.

An all knowing smile formed on the heiress' face. "I won't ask." Kikuno could only return a smile at her understanding. Of course she knew to some extent what was going on. Everyone preferred to keep the lady out of it and honestly Hanae herself didn't want to know either. "Join me for a game of chess before you go back to work?"

"It would be an honor."

---

The first day of training wasn't particularly successful. She didn't get hurt at the very least but the lack of results did put a frown on her face.

On her arrival the home keeper was able to pick from a variety of shadow fighting weapons. One did catch her eyes, a silver rapier, not much different from Mitsuru's weapon. She had fond memories of the redhead teaching her how to fence as well as the basics of kendo. Playful matches that she won only a small number of times. Nevertheless, when she won her lady always looked proud of her accomplishment.

With a nostalgic smile she picked up the saber and admired it. Kikuno gave a practice slash and a practice thrust judging its weight in her hands. Once decided she headed towards the practice chamber. There the scientist waited with a gun in his hand- no not a gun but an evoker.

"Once you go in the door will locked and won't open for safety reasons until the shadow is killed." She gave a short nod; that was to be expected after all. "All the shadows here are low levels so you shouldn't have too much of a problem anyway." He stepped out of the way and gestured for her to enter. Grabbing the evoker the servant stepped in. The door closed behind her the lock clanking it in place.

As someone who has held a real gun before she compared the differences for safety. Instead of the normal black it was light silver in color and had SEES engraved on it. The evoker was also made from a lighter material and didn't feel real in that sense. The likeliness of confusing it with a real gun in a hurry wasn't very likely much to her relief. Still the idea of pointing at it at her body and pulling the trigger still made her hesitate.

The door on the other side of the chamber opened and a black blob slithered in. Her eyes narrowed with both weapons in hand she advanced with caution. The plan was to ambush it from behind and get use to everything. Before she could make eye contact with the blue masked shadow she stabbed the creature in the back. The blob froze up for a split second and dissipated in a puddle. The PA system clicked on with a screech. "Good job but you were supposed to use the evoker."

The factotum glared at the man watching comfortably from behind a thick bullet proof glass. "Do you really expect me to easily be able to point a gun to myself and pull the trigger without feeling like I'm in a life or death situation?"

"…Yes, I did. You were always one of the best subjects of the lab after all. If you need more of a challenge than let me release more than one." The door where the shadow came out of started to open before she could think to protest. Automatically she back up from the door looking for a place to take cover. Three monsters slithered out spotting her immediately. They made eye contact- well she did anyway. There was nothing behind the eye holes of the red masks except for a pitch black abyss.

Feeling instant danger she took off just in time to feel the heat of fire magic being thrown her way. Not only did they seem stronger then the blue mask one there was three on them now. Diving behind a thick support beam two more fire balls hit the wall with barely any damage done.

Her eyes dropped to the evoker in her hand suddenly feeling the pressure to use it. Her heart sped up at the thought of it. The worse that could happen was nothing and she would have to slash her way out of this? Well there was also a chance to lose control of her persona. Relying on the staff here to help her wasn't too comforting. Kikuno could never forget that the majority of these scientists were major assholes but they wouldn't want to lose a test subject like her. Maybe using her rapier was the way to go.

'Incoming!'

A loud sudden voice snapped her out of her thoughts. The maayas had cornered her. There was no way she would be faster than their fire magic. Bracing herself for impact and protecting her face the maid launched herself forward trying to run through the gap between them. The heat from there magic could be felt regardless of rather the fireballs made contact. A shadowy hand reached out as she ran by catching her clothes. Quickly Kikuno half turned with a glare to piece the shadow with her weapon into its body. One down.

She placed a great deal of space between herself and the remaining two. Shadows were near-sighted so it was easy enough to get away. Though running would only exhaust herself out faster. At least she kept somewhat fit and had faith in her stamina and physical abilities. Still she was able to wipe the dampness off her forehead a mixture of nervous and sweat. It didn't look like the two shadows would separate and both would have to be annihilated together. 'Loop around take out one then quickly take out the last one' was the best plan she could come up with in minutes. With how close they were to each other it was likely that the maid wouldn't be able to kill one without the other noticing.

Her eyes scanned around for a small rock or debris. The servant reached for a piece of rubble and threw it against the wall. Both heads turned at the sound, as expected they both began to slither towards the sound. Quietly minding her footsteps by taking wider strides she slashed diagonally across its back. The remaining one turned hands up threateningly.

'Quickly throw your weapon like a javelin!'

The creature leaped for her actually leaving the ground. Without hesitating she balanced the rapier between two fingers while her thumb supported the weight by the guard. Winding up her arm and moving her body with the throw she propelled the projectile at her target. As expected it didn't fly straight but it did stab the creature which was good enough as it landed on top of her. Gravity did the rest of the work as the blade was driven further into its body.

The dark haired girl landed on her back with the creature on top. It disappeared seconds later her blade falling beside her. Kikuno sighed in relief. She was only under the monster for a split second but it was awful and suffocating. It was as if time had stopped. All of her senses were cut off and she didn't care to experience it again.

"Are you alright?" The nonchalant voice asked over the intercom.

The girl shot up. "I'm done for today!" She felt the need to object to a round three before the scientist could release another round on her.

"Fine." The door made an unlocking noise and slide opened. She ran out before the door could shut.

While she was washing her face in the sink the researcher walked up to her. "You didn't even try to use the evoker." He grouched standing with his arms across his chest. Was he really going to give her a hard time on her first day? Feeling her eyebrow twitch in anger she swiftly turned and pointed the evoker at him.

The man startled by her fast movement and her glare jumped and automatically put his hands up. The second he realized it wasn't a real gun he dropped his hands and frowned. Her lips did twitch upwards when she saw the fear in his expression. "Not easy is it?" She holstered the gun and turned back around reaching for a towel to dry off.

"At least pull it out of the holder next time." He muttered under his breath as he left feeling a light sting to his pride.

'Don't worry about it. I thought you fought great for your first time.'

"Than-" The words halted in her throat. She definitely heard a voice from a young women but she was alone in the room. Now that she wasn't in a fight she realized that it was the same voice that helped her win. Kikuno turned back around to make sure no one was there. Her eyes shifted around the room. It was opened enough and there weren't many places to hide either.

'I can sense that your evoker contains a Plume of Dusk so you shouldn't even need it. For some reason you're trying to use the emotion of fear to summon. Why is that? Isn't having a personality enough?'

"Excuse me, but who am I speaking too?"

'I don't have a real name but the researcher addressed me as Unit 024.'

"And where is your voice coming from exactly…?"

"I am the premade personality that was made from the Plume of Dusk that was embedded in your chest."

"Oh, alright…"

'While I have never summoned a persona before I will do my best to support you.'

"Thanks…" Silence engulfed the room and the home keeper wasn't sure what to make of a voice in her head.

As if feeling how uncomfortable the human was to learn this, the plume spoke up. 'If you don't mind please allow me to live vicariously through you a little bit.'

"Living vicariously through me? You're rather optimistic. I guess you aren't an auditory hallucination from my mind then."

'You doubted me?'

"Do you blame me? I'm hearing an unrecognizable voice in my head after having a dubious surgery."

"Well, if you want to get technical I am not a voice in your head. I would be the voice in your heat since I'm located 15 millimeters above it."

Kikuno felt her chest vibrate in a light chuckle. "As long as I can protect the person most important to me I don't mind you possessing my body."

'I don't possess that ability.'

"Why haven't you spoken to me earlier?"

'I couldn't. You needed to heal completely and I had to adjust to your body and personality. I was in stimulus overload for a bit. I've never been outside the lab before so I really had to learn about things around you. After that there was no reason for me to interrupt your daily life. Honestly I'll stay quiet unless you need me.'

"Alright, thanks."

---

The harsh ring from her cell phone pieced the haunting silence of the Dark Hour. It was extremely odd for Kikuno to receive a call during this time. The cell was embedded with a small plume the day she got the ring in case Takeharu ever needed her at night. Pulling it out she glanced at the caller ID and flipped it opened immediately. "My Lady?" She greeted her voice soft and curious. When Mitsuru didn't speak right away the dark haired girl knew something was wrong. All she heard over the line was heavy breathing. "My Lad-!?" Her anxious voice was cut off.

"Father… Father is gone… Ikutsuki-" The retainer could hear the redhead's underling rage and despair. She spoke in a broken sentence and intonations she used. The tearful way she spoke about her father while she growled Ikutsuki's name.

Unconsciously the servant clutched her cell in a death grip. The sound of the plastic reaching its breaking point stopped her. A wave of regret and anger washed over her for not being there. Another duty kept her away but the factotum wanted to celebrate the end of the Dark Hour with Mitsuru. She knew how important it was to the persona user who was a test subject like herself.

"I'm coming!" 'Don't do anything rash, I'll take care of this' was on the tip of her tongue but didn't come out as she hung up without a proper goodbye. Quickly she checked on Hanae, who was safely sleeping in her coffin. She ran to the security section to relay the horrible news. The officer gathered a few of his men and they were on their way to Tartarus with great speed.

Kikuno sat in the back while the KSD Officer drove the limo weaving between cars frozen in time. She sat with her hands clutching her uniform and her glare glued to the window. Ikutsuki Shuiji. The name echoed in her mind as she tried to mentally pull up everything she knew about him. It wasn't much and the master seemed to trust him. Her teeth sank into her bottom lip. Was his name on the files she read about implanting plumes into people? They never really interacted with each other; barely seeing each other in passing. Could she have foreseen this?

'Blaming yourself isn't going to help. You'll be there for her soon.' Unit 024 soft voice echoed in her head trying to help. 024 was right, Kikuno can't let her mental state waiver while dealing with Mitsuru. She wouldn't be able to give her full support otherwise.

The vehicle pulled up to the gate of the school. SEES was in front waiting for them. Everyone jumped out of the car. The assistant ran to the empress' side while the guards ran to Takeharu's body. The group must have carried his body down and neatly placed him on the ground with Sanada's red sweater covering his face respectfully. In the distance she could make out the traitor's broken body. No one cared to give him a glance. The Security took care of it. They avoided looking in the bodies' direction.

"My Lady?" Mitsuru didn't respond, Kikuno glanced over at the others. All of them avoided eye contact with her and each other as well. The retainer sighed.

The heiress turned to her friends telling them that it was alright for them to go home first. Sanada stepped forward and opened his mouth to protest. "Please go, I'll be alright." His shoulders dropped but he listened. The boy called to the others and they began the slump home.

The guards didn't expect Mitsuru to ride home with the bodies of her father and a traitor. They promised to return for them both in the morning. Now it was only Mitsuru and Kikuno left on the school ground. The maid watched with anticipation as the school gate was locked back up. With her body on autopilot she turned and started her walk back with the attendant following. If the redhead was showing any of the normal stages of grief the retainer could have dealt with it. The complete lack of an emotional response was more off putting. Maybe the shock was still blocking out the mourning process.

With a small frown Kikuno boldly reached for her hand. Trying to talk was going to be pointless. Hell, she even expected Mitsuru to pull away from her completely. As long as the heiress knew that she wasn't alone then the servant wouldn't push it. The maid was pleasantly surprise when the hand weakly grasped hers. There was a distance look in her ruby eyes that made Kikuno question if she even acknowledged her there anymore. Her hand closing around her was probably only reflex at this point.

It became more obvious of the girl's reverie when she didn't lift her foot high enough and tripped on the front step. The factotum quickly wrapped her arms around the president's middle keeping her stable on two feet. "Thanks." After the quick surprise of almost smashing her face against the door wore off the empress muttered some gratitude and tried to pull away. Kikuno didn't allow it pulling the persona user against her body.

"Please accept my condolences for what happened. But for now put your trust in me." Mitsuru averted her eyes and nodded. The lobby was thankfully empty when they staggered in. Without another accident she was able to get the long haired woman to her room and sitting on the bed. The attendant searched through her draws for some nightwear. The long haired woman didn't put up any resistance when the employee assisted her and tucked her into bed.

"If I close my eyes I'll see it again." The empress scooted back to allow Kikuno to join her and curled up on her side.

"Then just focus on me and just rest your body for now." She took a seat on the bed. She figured it wouldn't be too long before Mitsuru's brain shuts down her body. A few hours of rest is better than nothing at all.

"Shouldn't you get some sleep? There's not point to you watching me."

"I'll sleep once I know you're fine." The ice queen frowned but didn't respond.

Crimson eyes fluttered closed when the maid's hands rubbed her back soothingly. The very least Mitsuru could do was try and rest trying to focusing on the touch rather than the events of the day. The loving touch of her trusted friend's fingers pressing into her tense muscles.

There was a soft blueish glow from the dark haired woman's fingertips. Kikuno shot up from the bed and stared at her hand expecting to find something wrong with it. Worriedly she had felt the tense muscles under her fingertips loosen and her breathing steady out far too quickly then considered normal. The scarlet haired woman was already displaying signs of a stage 2 Non-REM sleep.

She watched for any signs of discomfort. After a few minutes of hawk eyed attention she deemed it safe to turn away. Stripping of her apron and her shoes the tired girl fell to the couch. Kikuno covered her eyes with her arm. By now the news was probably circulating within the family and business CEOs. Hopefully one of the other servants could pick up a mourning kimono. While thinking about the hectic next few days she drifted off to sleep.

Thankfully, she still roughly got the same amount of sleep. Like normal she woke up before the empress to prepare. Who knew when their ride would show up? Though she expected the driver to call her and wouldn't wake up the redhead before that call.

With perfect timing her cell buzzed after she was dressed and prepared for the day. The number that showed up wasn't one she recognized. It wasn't likely to be spam but if it wasn't important who would call so early in the morning? What if the ring woke the stressed girl up prematurely? "Hello?" Her tone was unfriendly but civil.

"Ms. Saikawa, I am Takadera Ichiro. I was just elected as the Representative during an urgent Board of Directors' meeting." Her lips pursed together. There really shouldn't be any reason for someone like him to call her. She didn't deal with the business side of Kirijo. "To protect the Kirijo Group Ikutsuki's evil deeds can't come to light. Therefore the top priority is to get rid of SEES. Their very existence is evidence of dirty work." Her eyes narrowed as she remained passive aggressive. That's why she was called. He must have known about her ring and probably had his own too. Her thumb traced over the ring on her finger.

"Why have you contacted me about this? While I understand, I can't imagine the Young Miss agreeing."

"I agree; she has a strong sense of justice like her father. All you have to do is keep her away from the dorm, stay by her side to comfort and make sure she isn't swayed by temporary emotions. I'll take care of the rest. "

"How will you disband SEES?"

"We will ask nicely first. If that fails then I'll send in the specialized equipment."

Of course, the old threaten and force your way. She didn't really expect something different. "I'm amazing at the scope of this plot it must ranges from the grounds to the main office."

"It's all for the sake of Kirijo Group after all. If you have any problems I do have sleeping pills for her to take. I hope you both have a save travel back to the main house. The car will be arriving at the dorm in five minutes." Then he hung up, the dial tone echoed in her ears.

"He can't be fully trusted." She sighed getting Mitsuru's clothes ready before waking her.

'What would you like to do? Will you betray the one you love?'

"I will protect her even if I'm resented for it." The resolve in her voice must have stopped Unit 24 from responding further. Kikuno shifted her focused at her tasks for the day. She gently placed a hand on the redhead's shoulder and called out to the persona user. "My Lady, it's time to get up. That car will be arriving soon." The heiress let out a cute groan sitting up with bedhead on one side. With a small smile the retainer guided her to the sink to wash her face. "How did you sleep?"

"Better than anticipated all things considered." Mitsuru responded drying her face on the towel she was handed.

"Glad to hear it." Once dressed the servant ran a brush through her bedhead making it presentable. "I'm done." Mitsuru flipped her long hair and took one last glimpsed in a mirror before exiting her room. Silently they made their way down stairs as not to disturb the other sleeping residents.

Before reaching the door a resident's footsteps could be heard calling out to the president. "Takeba, you're up early. Do you need something?" The younger student paused seemingly stumped at her words.

"…"

"Takeba, why don't you just be frank and tell Mitsuru you're concerned about her." Another voice called from upstairs. Sanada came down in a basic shirt and shorts; he was awake for one of his morning runs. The brunette simply frowned and averted her gaze from them.

"I'll take care of things here while you're gone. Call us when you can." The boxer wore a serious expression. Kikuno didn't miss the light smile on Mitsuru's face when he promised to watch over everyone in her absents.

"Thank you, goodbye." The ice user turned with her friend trailing after. The drive popped out of the limo to open the door for the both of them.

One sadly quiet car ride the limo finally entered the municipal roads near the residence. "My Lady, you'll be dressed to greet people –fifty at most." The blank expression made the factotum pause. "Are you listening?"

"I am."

"Don't worry; I'll remain by your side the whole time. So I'll make sure someone else picks up your mourning kimono if it wasn't already." The large estate came into view all with a group of people waiting outside. "There's already an uninvited crowd." Kikuno grumbled an unpleasant look on her face. The ice queen wore a similar look those her appearance was more from exhaustion. "Surely we can use a back entrance?" If they wanted to walk they could use a backdoor but getting a car through might destroy the garden.

The car crept up getting as close to the door a possible; even making some of the guest move out of the way. "Get ready, hold my hand tightly and try to keep your head straight. Make sure not to make eye contact with them." With a gentle but iron grip the minute the door was opened Kikuno heaved her towards the front door. She didn't allow Mitsuru to acknowledge any of them. Once the heiress was safely through the threshold of the door the maid turned to the group. "If you have come to mourn, I will present you to the Miss when she's ready. If you have any other business, I –kindly- ask you to leave for today." She enounced and emphasized her words to let the crowd know they can't object. Even if the guests weren't rendered speechless the employee has already shut the front door in their faces.

"I'm sorry for all this, Kikuno."

"Not at all; remember the only one here you can count on is your mother."

"I would like to see her first."

"Of course."

---

Mitsuru fell to her bed with emotional fatigue. "Thank you for greeting everyone. The last guest just left." She didn't even recognize any of her supposed relatives. Granted by the end all of their faces blurred together and their voices whiny. They all said the same thing and most wanted to bring up the Dark Hour. The moment they did, Kikuno intervened kicking them out of the room to move to the next person. The only thing keeping her strong was her mother suffering through the same thing.

"I see."

"Tonight will be the reading of the will during the Dark Hour. Would you like something light before then? You haven't eaten at all today."

"I'm alright; I don't think I could stomach anything anyway. I rather read until it's time."

"That's even more of a reason..." Kikuno frowned as the redhead ignored her and reached for a book instead. There was a light sense of nostalgia seeing the empress with a book. "What are you reading?" She read the cover when Mitsuru flashed it. "Shakespeare, how depressing." There was a bit of disdain in the maid's voice.

"It's entirely my fault."

"No it-!"

"Even you. When father put a stopped to all the experiments you still came with us. Wouldn't finding a normal family to adopt you be a better option? Wouldn't you rather be free from me?"

"No!" There was a shape pain in her chest that she wasn't sure if it was from her overly beating heart or the Plume of Dusk. She reached for Mitsuru's hand holding it tighter than normal. Making sure she also wouldn't disappear if she let go. Kikuno wasn't being abandon or left behind the ice queen was just being self-deprecating. That's all. "Don't forget I chose this of my own free will. Your father gave me plenty of options for my future. I chose the best one, I don't regret anything."

There came a knock at the door. "Excuse me for interrupting." Takadera entered the room with a slight bow. Kikuno separated from her lady and had to keep her glare to a minimum. "It is time to unseal the testament."

"Is this safe? I'm worried about my mother."

"One night will be fine. Ms. Saikawa has been wearing the ring for the past six years. Also we'll be underground and safe from any shadows."

The long haired woman turned to her friend. "I thought you only wore it when I was home?"

"If I don't keep it on it might bring about hindrances upon completing my duties." Mitsuru's brows furred as if she wanted to protest. How would a simple ring bring any hindrance to normal maid duties? Even the short haired girl realized her reason sounded pretty weak. She leaned closer to her lady's ear and spoke quietly. "Remember when you called me and told me the news it was the Dark Hour then." She spoke in a tone that meant 'see, it's a good thing I wear it all the time.'

"Oh, right." It was understandable, that her brain was out of it at the time. Connecting that wasn't really important to her.

The representative checked his watch. "If you follow me, I'll escort you both."

"Thank you."

Everyone had gathered underground in a bomb shelter like room. Mitsuru took her place right next to her mother with Kikuno following. "Are you alright, mother?"

"I'll be alright. Just knowing you go through this every night fills me with anxiety." The clock ticked over and the lights switched off. Not even a second pasted before someone freaked out over it. Did they really think the lights where going to stay off for something like this? The emergency backup lights switched on illuminating the room in a hunting color.

Takadera walked to the front were he could be seen by everyone. The will was kept locked up in a small fire box. "Dear relatives, I appreciate your presence today. With this I would like to begin the testament unsealing of the late Takeharu Kirijou." The safe was opened and a sealed envelope was pulled out. It was marked with the family crest. With a letter opener he sliced the envelope cleanly. He cleared his throat and began speaking.

"Main object of the testament: In order to prevent feud over distribution of the inheritance of my governing property, I declare the following. Firstly - I bequest all of the residential real estates listed in paragraph 10 of the inventory and the total sum of the mansions built there to my wife, Hanae."

That wasn't much of a shock. Most of the relatives were only interested in the stocks and shares of the company. They weren't even trying to hide it. "Secondly - All of the shares in my possession at Kirijou Group listed in paragraph 22 are to be..." The man trailed off his eyes scanned the paper again.

"The shares are to be sold off according to the values of divisional rates listed in paragraph 23 without exception." The room had a split second of silence before the group cried out in disbelief.

"How can he not leave anything to us, his very own relatives?! What is this farce?!"

"It would appear the aim is to prevent relatives from managing the group." Takadera answered his voice sounded calm but he was just as shocked as everyone else. He was clearly planning for the groups next step.

The scion thought about it for a second. "Actually, leaving management within the hands of relatives is considered to be a historical mistake. Why are they making such a problem out of it?"

"Greed." The factotum answered simply.

"Mr. Takadera, is Mitsuru mentioned?" Hanae soft voice spoke up.

"Yes, of course." He turned back to the paper and skims it for her name.

"To my firstborn daughter, Mitsuru, I leave this." He held up a small card used to open doors. It had the number twenty printed on it. "Allow me to inspect how to use it."

The assistant spoke out pulling up a memory from the back of her head. "If I am not mistaken, this should be a card key for the cold room where food is stored. Number 20 is the card key for the master's wine cellar. I've never been inside, but I think there's a large number of chardonnay and vintage rose bottles."

He handed over the key card. Mitsuru blinked and looked rather dumbfound. "Wine? Isn't there anything written about his?"

"There is only one postscript: It is against my will for all other inheritors to bestow my only daughter with inheritance other than this from kindness. Therefore, I forbid it." Hanae just smiled. Mitsuru looked a little confused but didn't voice out any complaints or questions.

"Mr. Takadera, I leave all other discussions of remaining management to you. I'm not in a position to question it, anyway. I would like to be excused." There was no reason for Hanae to stay. Honestly she didn't want to be either. Not when everyone was just going to complain about nothing getting anything.

"Yes of course, if that is your desire, I have no objections."

"As expected the Dark Hour is exhausting. Everyone, I wish you all the best as you see fit. Good night."

Every head in the room went down in a bow as a harmonized echo of 'Good night.' The second she left the sniveling and moaning started back up again.

"Yet again there are problems concerning inheritance!"

"As if the previous generation wasn't enough, why is our late leader such a dumb oddball too?!"

Kikuno was scathing. "How dare they say that in front you. Pathetic! As soon as they heard they'd get no rights over management they started acting like children." She firmly grasped the persona user's hands in both of hers. "We should go too. There is no point in staying in this vile place."

"Miss, this isn't something for me to say, but I humbly state that everyone is anxious. The group is tainted by illegal acts. It'll increase our risks if management slips away from the hands of the relatives. Due to which-"

"Mr. Takadera, I'm sorry. I'm a bit tired. Please excuse me." The redhead was always grateful for her friend's forceful nature as she was dragged away immediately. Mitsuru –as well as Kikuno- felt a bit better when she was outside and could no longer hear the voices of the group.

The servant shifted her mood back into warm and caring as they walked back to her room. "Well then, it's already half past midnight. Please cancel going back to the Dorm and spend the night here."

"You don't have to be so concerned. I'm not sleepy yet, I just wanted to get out of that room."

"How can you say that? You didn't get much sleep yesterday and have been traveling and interacting with countless people. You're overly tired right now. I will give you some sleeping pills. With them you'll be able to rest properly. I'll bring you some clothes to change, please wait." Without waiting for confirmation Kikuno left for supplies. A minute later when she returned the room it was empty.

Fear gripped her heart once more. "My Lady…" Where did she go? There really wasn't any particular place in the manor that she liked to escape too. Noticing the key card wasn't nearby Kikuno's first place to look was going to the kitchen. Her shoes clattered against the tile of the kitchen making her way to the opened wine cellar.

"Madam! My Lady! Your room was opened and you were gone. I was worried where you might've run off to."

"Ms. Kikuno, you should know better what that man actually left Mitsuru with." The maid blinked getting her worry under control while hesitant and unsure of what to say. "Don't be bashful, just say what you think."

"My Lady, earlier you asked me, 'wouldn't you like to be free.' I believe this is the same. The master must have given you freedom."

"What? Freedom?"

She nodded as if to reaffirm her point. "Being free from any burden –to follow your own dreams and to live your life the way you wish. The only thing he could provide you with when he leaves this world. Isn't that also why the Madam did not stand up for you?"

"It would have caused a big ruckus if I'd revealed it at that place. It's safe to say that selling off the shares is not so much for improving management, than it is for the sake of Mitsuru."

"Father did all this for me...?"

"Take a look at the label of the wine you're holding in your hand."

"Year 1991."

"Do you know the significance of that year?" Ruby eyes widened when it hit her. "That's right. All of these bottles are from the year you were born. He was really looking forward to it. The moment you turned 20 he wanted to drink with you. 'Mitsuru will surely know the difference between each taste' is what he said."

"Father, I won't get to drink some with you."

"No, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy it with others important to you. I think he would be happy to know you shared it with someone special." Her fingers tightened around the glass bottle as she pulled it to her chest. "Mitsuru, you did splendid today."

"Mother."

The older woman pulled her daughter into a warm hug. Her fingers slide through her smooth scarlet locks. "Come now, it's quite late. Have some rest. Can I leave her to you, Ms. Kikuno?"

"Of course." With one hand on her back guiding the president back to her room was easy. A glass of water and her sleeping pills were already on the night table. The heiress took them without any complaint and allowed the retainer to tuck her in. "I'll stay by your side tonight."

"You really don't need to. You deserve a real nights rest just as much as I do."

"I'll rest just fine knowing you're alright." The employee smirked when the scion yawned. "Do you have any dreams for the future, My Lady?"

Crimson eyes fluttered shut finding them too heavy to keep open any longer. "Eradicate the Dark Hour."

"Figures, I really don't know what else I was expecting you to say." Mitsuru's breathing even out indicating that the drugs were circulating through her body. "You really won't be too happy when you figure out what is happening back at the dorm."

'Is your resolve wavering?'

"No, of course not."

---

Mitsuru's eyes fluttered opened. Her hands flew to her face to rub at her eyes catching Kikuno's attention. "My Lady, are you awake?"

She let out a hummed and turned to the assistant sitting at her side. "Have you been there the whole time?"

"No, I did check on your mother a few times."

"It's still dark outside. Did I sleep the day way?"

"Yes, you were tired and the last few days were stressful. Perhaps now you want to eat a little something?"

"No thanks. What's the schedule for the funeral? I'd like to head back to the dorm."

"I can't allow that."

"Why?"

She paused to quickly come up with a plausible excuse. "You're excessively tired; travel will take more out of you. Furthermore, the funeral will be even busier then yesterday –more people will show up."

"Understood. Then I should at least call them, I promised Akihiko I would when I was free." Pulling out her phone she flipped through her address book. The servant watched with a frown as she heard the busy dial tone. She canceled the call and tried someone else only to get the same thing.

"Busy?"

"I should at least get voice mail. It should always connect. Something could be going on. Takadera said there's a risk that illegal deeds would be known to the world. The most deplorable thing Kirijo has done would be everything about shadows and Tartarus. SEES is a big part of it."

"Aren't you over thinking this?" Kikuno's own words didn't even sound genuine to herself. But Mitsuru didn't seem to notice.

"I think this is far worse than we could imagine. I want to know what's going on. If something is happening, Takadera would be in a pinch if I gave you such an order. He must've taken some counter measure?" The factotum frowned and averted her gaze to the floor. It was hard for her to lie, especially to the redhead's face.

She must have remained silent for a little too long. "Kikuno?"

"Let's go out for a walk." The suggestion was more a command as she headed out the door knowing the redhead would pursue. The walk outside was silent with the servant walking on ahead. She didn't really want to make eye contact with the heiress. It hurt to know that Mitsuru was going to be upset when she gave answers.

The moment they were in the garden Kikuno began to speak delicately. "If only you'd slept for a few more hours."

"Why?"

"To protect you."

"I don't need protecting."

"The Master is gone now and you almost lost your life as well. Do you have any idea how I felt when I heard that stuck inside the mansion?! Only a fool would send you to battle again!"

The president opened her mouth argue but changed her tone straightway. "…That's right, it is as you said. Nevertheless, I can't just abandon them. This is my obligation for making them risk their lives."

The maid softly grasped onto the empress' shoulders. "You don't have obligations or duties anymore! Your father freed you from them." Her voice was desperate to get across her feelings.

"I misspoke; it is my desire, Kikuno."

Kikuno frowned and removed her hands from the other girl. "You're as stubborn as always, but so am I. I swore I'd devote my life to following you. That's why I'm persistent. Why are you so attached to them?" It wasn't as if the members of SEES were practically loyal to the heiress herself.

"We've been through a lot together. We've overcome many tough enemies."

"In that case, they should be able to foil Takadera's plans-"

"Hey!" Her words faded as noise from the distance caught there attention. It didn't click a bell in Kikuno's head as quickly as it must have for the president.

"That voice…" The long haired girl was the first to move running at the two arguing voices. "What's going on?"

"Young Miss, I apologize for the commotion. I apprehended an intruder from outside the gate." The guard jumped to attention his hands holding on to the archer.

"I'm not an intruder! I also knocked on the gate."

"She's holding a gun-like object."

"I wanted to use it as evidence that I know you. I didn't expect them to let me in on word alone."

"You can let her go. She speaks the truth about being my friend and she won't cause trouble."

"Understood." The man released her and started his rounds once more. The brunette rubbed her wrists checking for bruising.

"Takeba, why are you here?"

"I thought you might be thinking something stupid. I don't understand your feeling yet. How can you have a calm expression on your face? I almost feel like an idiot for caring about you."

"I'm sorry." Mitsuru felt touched by the younger girl's care. It was similar to how her childhood friend acted. She turned to her trusted companion. "Kikuno, if what my father has given me is the freedom of choice. Then you know what I'm going to choose." The servant felt her shoulders dropped but she stopped putting up a fight. The stubborn heiress planned on returning to the dorm no matter what. "Takeba, the security department is planing a raid on the dorm."

"Wha-?"

"Follow me!

Kikuno watched silently as the younger girl was pulled towards the bike. The short haired woman showed clear signs of being uncomfortable at the vehicle. The way Mitsuru revved the engine didn't do anything to calm her. Takeba screamed as they shot off down the street. The assistant watched as they disappeared in the horizon feeling a bit heartbroken.

"She sure is brave for a child of mine."

"Madam?" The sudden voice behind her did startle but she always welcomed Hanae's company.

"I wish she would forget about the motorcycle." She knew the madam was trying to lighten the mood a little. It didn't really work. "Does the fact she managed to get away mean you lost?"

Her eyes widened slightly. "You noticed?" A smirk did form on her face; Hanae was a clever woman. It was always impressive when she showed it off. The older woman was able to see right through her.

"I'm surprised by her behavior outside the mansion."

"Did you see her face when she was speaking to her friend? I'd never imagine she would have such a soft side to her when talking to other people. Every time I meet her I see a new expression of hers. A happy one, a lonely one..."

"I feel a bit of regret."

"You'll receive a harsh punishment, you know. There's a chance even I won't be able to save you."

"Yes, I understand."

"You'd better not tell Mitsuru about that later."

"I agree."

"Will you be alright?"

"The real pleasure of this job is about withstanding so much in the name of the people you follow with your heart. I'm glad to be doing it."

"I'd like to thank you on behalf of my daughter. I'm really glad you were the one who was by her side all this time."

"Madam…" Tears gathered in her eyes fighting them as the weight of all her emotions hit her hard on the back. She pressed her hands to her chest praying whatever happens tonight goes well.

"Thank you, Ms. Kikuno."

---

The maid guessed she had at least an hour before news reached Takadera's ears. She didn't have much to prepare so all she could do was wait nervously. It still hurt to not be able to follow after them. This was the very reason she got the implant in her chest. Though, she currently had no luck summoning a persona yet. As soon as everything is settled she'll deal with the blame. It's the least she could do for causing a bit of trouble.

The attendant perked up when the defense force returned. She greeted them at the gate making sure she was the first to get the report. The empress had almost lost her life again. The commander held nothing back and she just listened with a stoic expression. "Now, you'll have to excuse me. I need to report to Takadera." Now it wouldn't be long until the man confronted her.

Barely five minutes later the earth shook under his stomping feet. "Well, well if it isn't Mr. Takadera. Isn't the moon pretty tonight?"

"Why did you let the Miss go?"

"I won't betray the one I serve with my heart."

"Do you truly consider it a good idea to switch sides?"

"I was always on her side, let's stop it already. We had nothing to protect that was worth tricking somebody to employ our plan."

"I beg to differ! Nothing can erase the fact that the Miss was related to Ikutsuki, regardless of her social position. Due to that we must have her resign. But this time it'll be for more than just one night." He pinched the bridge of his nose in frustration. Why? Resign from what? She wasn't left the company. "You are in possession of all information concerning the Miss, are you not? You're in her inner circle after all."

"I have nothing to hand to you and even if I did I wouldn't."

"This isn't a deal. If you refuse, we'll have you test the productivity of the Ergonomics Laboratory with that body of yours. There are no means of preventing it."

"How dreadful." She was able to keep her voice even. It wasn't a threat she was afraid of anymore. Besides she already went through the experimentation and had the plume implanted. What more could they do to her? Especially if they don't want word getting out to the public? His threat wasn't even a good one anymore. "However, there is a way."

"What are you talking about?"

"You do know what makes this ring so valuable, right? Her thumb traced over the accessory on her ring finger.

"Don't tell me...! Do you intend to break your ring?!"

"I wouldn't be standing all alone in the garden without a plan, you know."

"That's six years you're going to lose! Six years of experience during the Dark Hour!"

"As an appointed servant, I am a Specialized Bodyguard despite my apron. It's foolish of you to ask me whether I'm prepared."

"Don't you value what you have? Your abilities, your sense, everything. You stand above other people. You realize that, don't you?"

"You would never understand the joy of serving someone you love. Farewell, Mr. Takadera." She pulled the ring off and dropped it to the ground. She saw his mouth drop to the ground as she lifted her leg and slammed her foot down on it. There was the sound of breaking glass then the sound of her body hitting the soft grass.

"I can't believe this; discarding six years of memories." With noises of disbelieve and frustration he stomp off. He was probably going to talk to other CEOs about what to do next.

Now all she could do was wait. Literally wait, as she was stuck on the ground until someone could find her. Who would get to her first a maid, gardener or a guard? Her mouth twitched upward at the thought of playing a small game right now. Her mind drifted off to the coming nights.

Clearly she was still going to be active during the Dark Hour. The idea of hiding all night didn't sound great. She wanted people to be able to get a hold of her in they need it. Or maybe she could get another ring? Yes, that would probably work. She would forget about breaking the ring and no one would have an issue about getting a replacement. Takadera would probably glare and grumble but he probably couldn't do anything about it. Not that he had to know anyway.

"I guess I should try and catch up on some sleep." The stress of the last few days was finally done with. Her heart tightens at the thought of losing the redhead again. "I probably should learn how to drive a helicopter for the future." It was hard to fully relax on the ground but at least it was quiet despite the Dark Hour was over.

The maid could have sworn she felt a hand on her head though she was sure no one was around. Through her closed eyelids she saw a long silver haired woman smiling at her. A random assortment of colored flowers adorned her hair. There was something familiar about her, something warm. It filled her with a sense of safety as she drifted off.

---

"Ms. Saikawa?!" Kikuno felt a hand on her shoulder as the voice of an elder maid registered in her mind. "Are you alright? Are you hurt? I called an ambulance."

"What?" Her eyes opened the first thing she saw was the blinding sun. She groaned and winced remembering she slept outside. She quickly realized her neck was a little sore without the support of a pillow. Well, at least the irrigation system didn't turn on. The old woman at her side looked concerned. "Don't worry, I'm fine. I don't need an ambulance."

"These last few days have been pretty stressful on you." Hanae's delicate voice came from behind her. In her hand were the remains of her broken ring. Kikuno briefly pondered what the woman was going to do with it. In the end it didn't really matter though trying to figure it out would likely give her a headache. "Don't worry about anything and take a few days off to recuperate." The widower offered a mischievous smile.

The employee blinked and allowed herself to be escorted in the ambulance. The madam was being nice enough to play alone to help her. Going back to work would look suspicious. "I guess the winner of who found me first was a maid. A few days off, huh?" From the cot she watched the moving scenery.

It felt like forever since she was inside a real hospital. Well, six years really. The nurse wheeled her to a familiar room –the same lonely room from her childhood. The nurse helped her into a bed. Interestingly enough this time inside the room was a redhead lying on the opposite side of her bed.

Kikuno recognized the girl –though not personally. The redhead on the bed didn't move to acknowledge her in the slightest. This will make it hard to start a nice conversation. Her phone sounded off in her pocket. The ID made her smile. "Hello."

"Kikuno?" There was an anxious tone in her voice that sounded relieved when she picked up.

"My Lady, it's been a long time. Please accept my deepest condolences about what happened."

"…"

"My Lady?"

"Sorry. Where are you now?"

"I apologize. I collapsed while on duty and I was taken to the hospital."

"I see…" The voice sounded somewhat sad. Kikuno couldn't help but chuckled. "What is it?"

"Don't worry, I haven't forgotten. Not about the inheritance or our argument yesterday."

"You tricked me?! But your ring was broken."

"I've had the ability to experience the Dark Hour."

"What? Since when?"

"Since my first hospital stay."

"Six years ago? Why wear the ring?"

"For a time when I would need to use it as a scapegoat."

"…You're really playing some 4D chess aren't you? There's no way I would've figured that out."

Her lips twitched upwards. It wasn't even her biggest secret at the moment. Maybe the next time they meet she would tell the long haired woman about her plume. "You know what they say: 'To fool your enemies you have to fool your friends.'"

"You had me worried."

"Thank you for your concern. I'll return to work in a few days so it doesn't look like I set everything up. Goodbye, My La-"

"Kikuno!" Mitsuru called out before the maid could cut the call. "Thank you so much; I'll come visit you soon."

The heartfelt appreciation didn't make the attendant regret her choice in the end. "You're welcome. I'm looking forward to your visit." She stared at the disconnected phone with an earnest smile. Everything was alright now. Their relationship was still strong. "Now then... what should I do until I can return? The Madam gave me a few days off."

"Hey, you can't use your phone inside the hospital." Yoshino spoke out without turning her attention away from her art book.

"Ah, please forgive me. I'll make sure to call after going outside next time. Let's get along as roommates." She offered a sweet friendly expression with the intention to force a conversation. From the opposite side of the room she could hear the woman grumble under her breath. This girl helped rescue Mitsuru and Kikuno was stubbornly determined to have a civil conversation with her.

"You know, a long time ago I was admitted inside this room too. How about I tell you about the Jinx that exists here?"

"Jinx?" Her eyes shifted towards hers while she still held on to her sketch book.

"If you stay here, someday, the one destined for you will come to see you."

"..."

"Do you have such a person?" Kikuno teased as Yoshino's mouth slowly dropped and a reddish tint spread over her checks.

"It's none of your business!" She tried to hold in her chuckles watching the expression change from realization to embarrassment. The Strega member covered her face with her book. When she got her emotions under control she pulled the book down to glared. "Are all you persona users so talkative to strangers?"

"I'm not a persona user, I just have the potential." The cold hard skeptical amber stare caught the servant off guard. Clearly she didn't believe it for whatever reason. The artist set her book aside and hopped out of bed and strolled to her side. Sitting back down the redhead took one of her hands and placed the other on her forehead. Her eyes closed as if she was concentrating. The curious retainer stayed calm and quiet letting the other girl do whatever she was doing.

"You're kinda like me –not made for battle, but support." Once answered Yoshino dropped her hands back to her side.

She opened her mouth to say something but closed it. This might be the first time she found herself rather speechless. "Are you sure?" Does that mean the Plume of Dusk inside actually worked? Then why hasn't anything manifested?

"I trust what Medea tells me."

"What else can you tell me?"

"You should talk to your persona yourself. Close your eyes and concentrate deep within. What name comes in your mind?"

Her eyes closed as she focused hard. Kikuno felt the shard throb throughout her chest. A name and a face flashed through her brain. "Philotes…"

"Good, do you feel weak or uncomfortable around a certain element type? What about strengths?" Nothing really stood out to her. Kikuno didn't feel particularly weak or powerful. So that must have meant she didn't have any elemental openings or even resistances. "To actually summon her you probably need an evoker. Takaya and Jin can summon without but I'm not sure how they force it."

"Thank you for your input." The artist simply shrugged and returned to her side of the room. The maid suddenly felt a lot more confident in herself. Did Unit 024 personality merge with her persona? It's been a while since the last time they spoke.

'I'm still here; don't get rid of me.' A familiar voice echoed playfully. The short haired girl held back her surprise.

'Yoshino senses a persona within me.'

'Yes, she can sense me. I am a part of you.'

'You're my persona then?'

'I am the other side of your persona -the shadow. Persona and shadows are two sides of a coin and Plumes of Dusks are parts of shadows. Also you did utilize me already, so I have no doubt you'll be able to call me into the real world when you need me.'

'I have? When? By the way, this seems like important information that you should've told me when we met.'

'Back when you wanted Miss Mitsuru to sleep back at the dorm. You've always been so worried about losing control or being a burden. With that mindset you'll never be able to pull me from the sea of souls. Since you were so focused on her you unconsciously tapped down to our power to support her. The reason I didn't introduce myself as a shadow with a premade personality was because I didn't want to scare you.'

'Should I stop addressing you a Unit 024 then?'

'It doesn't really matter but I guess I would prefer a name over just a number.'

A knock on the door caught both of their attentions. Mitsuru popped in holding something behind her back. "My Lady? What are you doing here?" Kikuno was pleasantly shocked while the Strega member looked uncomfortable. The golden eyed girl focused harder on her sketching.

"What? I said I'd come visit soon. Anyway, I have something for you." The retainer wasn't expecting the visit so soon. From behind the student president pulled out a small bouquet of 'get well' flowers. The assistant took the bouquet gratefully. There was light warmth flowing through her chest as she cradled the flowers. A nice and different surprise from the normal books she thought the redhead would've brought.

The empress turned to the other occupant in the room. "Yoshino." The girl flinched but didn't avert her icy gaze away. "I heard from Iori that you helped save me the other night. Thank you."

"I didn't do it for you." The artist muttered unsure about the genuine appreciation. It wasn't even a seconds later before a male happy voice could be heard down the hall singing her name. The artist blushed and looked awkward.

"I know you didn't." Mitsuru smirked and turned to the door to see her underclassman skip in.

"Chidorin-! Oh hello." The boy's face did fall when he noticed others in the room. It wasn't in disappointment but shock. It had been a while since the president had tried to interrogate the Strega girl. The tranquil look on the upperclassmen's face lead him to believe that wasn't the case today.

"Hello Iori." The empress turned back to her maid. "Why don't we leave them alone. Would you like to go for a walk?" With a nod the two girls headed out and towards the yard to let the budding couple have their privacy. At least this time their walk would be a nice stroll through the garden. "Did you make a new friend?" Mitsuru teased leading them over to a bench.

"Trying, but I fear it's still pretty much one sided."

"Before I came here I was visiting with mother. I made a decision about my own path."

"I will follow and stay by your side." The response was immediate, short and expected.

"I know, mother also said: 'someday, a person who understands you even better than I do shall appear. Or perhaps, they might already be by your side.' When she said that your face was the only one I saw. Thank you for always doing what you think is in my best interest, even if I don't agree with it."

"I've already accepted your feelings. You don't need to thank me again or we'll be in an endless cycle."

"I know, I'm trying get my feelings across but I'm not sure how. I'm not verbose enough in this. I think an action would be better in this situation."

"I think I have a good understanding of your feel-" The empress cut off her words by gently pressing their lips together. It was innocent, sweeter than honey and over far too quickly for Kikuno's liking. The factotum instinctively licked her lips craving more. "I stand corrected; I didn't think this was a possibility."

"Honestly, it may not have been a possibility before. I'm sorry I've always selfishly asked for more than I can offer. That will change. Since I was given freedom I will take full advantage of it without fear and with my friends." The president spoke with clearly with resolve then they made eye contact. All of the sudden her poise fell; she blushed and averted her gaze bashfully. "Though things don't really have to change between us if you don't want them too."

"I want this. Besides you can't just kiss me and tell me things don't have to change."

"Are you sure? Did I do it wrong?"

Well, it wasn't a romance movie confession or anything. "Kiss me again and I'll tell you." After another round of chaste kisses Kikuno beamed. "Nope, it was perfect. Absolutely perfect…." It didn't matter that they were outside; no one was around to bother them. They continued to kiss between nice conversation and laughter. A peaceful silence settled over the couple. Their fingers intertwined as the warm sun counteracted the chilly autumn weather.

---

"Say Kikuno, if the world was ending how would you spend your last few months?" The attendant froze. That was the last question she thought the scion would ask her. Especially since she had just picked up the phone and said "hello."

"I'd stop cleaning toilets. What brought this on?" Probably nothing good if she had to guess. She put down her cleaning supplies to sit on the side of the tub. This was going to take her full attention.

"The world is ending."

"…Please tell me your just woke up and found a pimple on your face." She teased without amusement.

"If you were given the chance to forget and to live peacefully until the end would you?"

"Can you please explain to me what is happening from the beginning before I give you actual answers?"

"-We have a week to decide." Kikuno anxiously taps her fingernail against the counter as she listened intently. Tensions were high and even a fight had broken out. Having no one else to talk to the redhead had turned to the factotum for guidance. "This affects you as well so I want to hear your opinion."

"I can see both sides. I wish you could forget about all the sadness and pain the Dark Hour caused. The Dark Hour was more than just an hour for us –unlike most of your friends it's been half of our lives. But it was thanks to the Dark Hour that we met and went through so much together. I fell in love with the beautiful strong woman who grew thanks to all those tough times. I just don't want to forget that. So my opinion is that I don't want to forget. But if you do…" Kikuno trailed out a coquettish smirk forming on her face. "Then focus only on me and I'll make you forget your troubles."

"You always know just want to say."

"Besides if the end result is the same why not fight to change it?"

"Yeah, you're right." She could feel Mitsuru's spirit becoming uplifted the more they talked. Minutes later it was as if they weren't discussing the end of the world but focusing on the upcoming holiday.

"Want to spend the holiday together?"

"Did you really think you had to ask? I do believe that's a school night though. Shall I meet you after school? We can walk around Paulownia Mall or something simple?"

"Sounds delightful. After all of this a little break would be nice. Thank you for taking time out of your work to make me feel better."

"Likewise." The assistant felt like she could continue her tasks with a kick in her step. "I'll see you on Christmas, goodbye." With a smile she slipped the phone back in her pocket. Nothing had changed much since there admission of mutual interest. Just the fact the Mitsuru came home more often; once or twice a month on the weekends. Depending on how tired she was from Tartarus explorations.

She finished wiping down the tub before putting the cleaning supplies away. She better put in her request for time off as soon as possible. Hanae was sitting in the garden in a gazebo while the other girls dusted the rooms. "Madam." The older woman smiled at the bowing maid. "Might I be able to the holiday off?"

"Of course or rather, I'd be sad if you chose to spend it with me over my daughter. Have you made plans? What about a gift?"

"As of now, we'll probably just go for a walk; it's a school night after all. As for a gift I know she likes Japanese dolls that the master used to buy for her. I'll find one she doesn't have yet. I'll stop by the Shinshoudo antique shop."

"She'll craft a good doll for you if you get her two turquoises."

"I see thank you. I better start planning right away."

When Kikuno returned to her room and pulled out her laptop. She remembered the redhead mentioning that the shadows in Tartarus drops items. Turquoise was one of those items. It might be easier to buy the jewels straight out of a store.

"Medium quality turquoise usually costs $3 – 5 per carat, which is $15 – 25 per gram, $6795 – 11350 per pound. Gem-quality turquoise price can reach up to $1000 per carat ($5000 per gram). Turquoise value is rarely expressed in pounds, as such an amount of solid gem material is rare." Her eyes scanned over the article. On her pay she could easily afford it. Something inside her thought that getting the stones with her own hands would be more rewarding. Not to mention easier to get the higher quality material.

The attendant opened the database on shadows. There were four blocks that had monsters that dropped the gem. Thankfully the second block wasn't too deeply in. Still, to go alone wasn't very appealing. Not to mention the amount of scolding she would probably get if the scion found out. Maybe Kikuno could get someone to go with her.

She knew who her first choice in partnership was. Convincing her might be a bit of a setback but all the more fulfilling. At night she found heading towards Yoshino's hospital room with a bag in hand. The Strega member was holding her sketch book opened staring at her own work. Her head turned lazily when the short haired girl walked in. "You're back." She stated disinterestedly.

"I was hoping you could help me."

Amber eyes narrowed the second she heard that. "Why would I help?"

"Because we're friends." There was no real proof of this. "I wish to make something for my loved one and I need the materials that the shadows drop." Her eyes drifted back down to her sketch. Kikuno could appreciate the talent it took to make a realistic portrait of a person.

"We aren't friends. I don't have my evoker anyway." Pleased Kikuno ignored the first part that was said but noted that it was spoken much quieter then the second part. The dark haired woman didn't hesitate to hand over her evoker.

"I imagine Kirijo might get mad at you." She was unsure if it was referring to going into Tartarus or taking the girl in white out of the hospital.

"It's a possibility. If that happens I'll handle it."

"You should ask SEES."

"You're probably right. However, I want to learn more about my persona through you. You're the only one who knows."

"I am? Kirijo doesn't know?"

"Unless you told someone, you're the only one."

"What about supplies? Are you prepared?"

"Of course, I'm probably over prepared considering we're only going to the second block." The home keeper gestured the bag resting at her feet. She even had suppressants in the bag.

"My weapon?"

"Naturally we'll retrieve it."

"Fine." A successful smile broke out on her face. The stubborn girl got her way –most of the time. "Since you brought all this stuff I assume you want to go tonight?"

"The quicker the better. I also don't want to run into SEES. Are you feeling up to it?"

"Yeah, I feel surprisingly well today." Her eyes drifted back down to the drawing as she wore a gentle smile. I guess that meant she had a special visitor today? She'll have to thank Iori the next time they met. Kikuno waited as Chidori changed out of her hospital gown. On the way out they secured her chained hatchet. The walk was quiet but it didn't bother either of them. She was sure the redhead probably preferred it. As they arrived the school transformed.

Unlocking the gate with her borrowed key they entered. "Just so you know I've never been in Tartarus before. Strega never had a reason to go in."

"I see, I'm sure this will be fun then." The long haired woman rolled her eyes knowing her last attempt to get out of this peacefully had failed. They walked over to the teleporter. "Do you know how to work this thing?"

"Supposedly, you think about where you want to go and touch it."

"Supposedly…?" Each passing second made the artist feel remorse in coming.

"Yup!" The retainer took a hold of her hand and touched the round part of the transporter. Before Chidori knew what happened the scenery around them changed. They were now in a long dead-end. The sudden pressure and atmosphere felt dramatically different from outside. The designs of the walls were rather indescribable. The pattern was made to cause to confuse and tire your eyes out on a cellular level. Really this place would do anything to put humans at a disadvantage. Averting her eyes before an optical illusion could trick them.

"I regret agreeing to this."

"Aww, come on now don't be like that. This is just two friends on an adventure." The retainer pushed the f word again noticing the light tint on her cheeks.

"We're not friends! Oh, fine. If I don't ditch you here to die then we're friends. Let's get this over with." The fire user headed off leading the way without much caution.

"Shouldn't you be a bit more… uhh… stealthy?" The lack of caution was surprising considering this was her first time here.

"No need, the ones here are weak. Look." The woman in white stepped around the corner catching the attention of a shadow. In a second the confident looking monster started shrieking bloody murder and slithering left and right while ducking around getting out of the away of the redhead. "What are you looking for? It may be hard to get if they run away from me."

"There were three targets. Bronze Dice are weak against electric and strong against strike. Steel Gigas weak against electric and light strong against strike again. The last is Dark Eagle weak against electric and strong against wind. Unless you want to go higher but they might not be wise."

"Sounds like you should have come here with the loud boy who likes to fight, not me."

"Honestly speaking he would be the last person I would want to explore this place with. There's no way I'd be able to stick to a plan with just the two of us."

"Do you not like them? Is that why you haven't told them about having a persona?"

"Not at all, on the contrary I like each of them. I'm glad they're around My Lady."

"Around her, not you." The artist pointed out her words. Why did she phrase it like that? Perhaps she felt a little guilty over all that happened? They could have gotten hurt in Takadera's plan. Yet they all risked their lives to save Mitsuru. It would probably be a while before she wanted to appear in front of the group. She wanted to give a special thanks to Yukari especially. Maybe they could make a nice dinner together?

The long haired woman held up a hand making the factotum freeze in her reverie. "Are you ready for your first battle? You're going to have to do it alone. If it sees me it may just run." Up ahead must have been a Dark Eagle. It hovered in the air lightly flapping its impressive wing span.

"Any advice?"

"Strike first and don't get hit." The long haired woman shrugged indifferently and held out the evoker.

"Don't worry I have one already. Keep that one in case you need to save me." She handed over all the supplies not wanting to fight while holding them. The bag would only slow her reflexes. She strolled forward, saber in one hand and evoker in the other. Taking a deep breath she pointed the gun shaped object at her chest over her plume. Using her thumb she pulled the trigger for the first time.

The maid felt the recoil through her body and the pain felt as if she had actually been shot. Kikuno dropped to her knees doubled over in pain bombarding through her chest. The shadow flinched from the attack but bounced back up easily. The assistant wasn't ready to summon again she held up her weapon point the tip at the bird struggling to stand. Taking a deep breath she charged –notably slowly- to slash. The creature evaded with ease.

It flew higher as if to cover a larger area flapping its wings sending wind magic her way. It felt like sharp blades sliced into her skin ripping her clothes in various places. It loomed closer as if it was laughing at her pain; it's talons out spread and ready to rip at her. The dark scarlet talons pieced her arm like butter.

Guarding with arm still hurt greatly. She cried out in pain but she used this opportunity to attack again. The dark haired woman slashed at one of the wings making it fall to the ground. While it thrashed around like a fish out of water she hovered over it with her weapon. She plunged the tip into the masked faced. It dissipated leaving behind a nice gem as a reward. Falling to her knees once more she held the stone feeling the smooth texture of the jewel.

"Medea." The pain in her body slowly faded away and the talon marks on her arm healed. The girl wanted to rest a little after one battle. "How do you feel?" Her friend asked.

"Accomplished."

"Why did you only summon your persona once? I thought you wanted to learn how to fight using it."

"It hurts to do so." She frowned rubbing the sore area. Of course she wanted to use Philotes but it felt like her body froze up from chest pain after summoning. She felt staggered when it happened as if her muscles had been paralyzed.

"That's concerning. It shouldn't." They continued together in silence. The maid thought back on 024's words. Hopefully she didn't need it to summon and that evoker's 'plume power' hitting her plume that was the problem.

It was weird to just walk by so many normal shadows. They would try to start a battle with Kikuno but when they saw the Strega member they fled immediately. There really was a big gap between their powers. Then there probably was an ever bigger gap between herself and Mitsuru. The reality that she wouldn't get to help with Nyx was a bigger blow then the attacks of these shadows.

Three Bronze Dices floated threateningly in front of her. It looked to be mocking her the way it move and flipped playfully in the air. They circled her as she was knocked over and brought down to her butt. One was already a problem but three. Chidori joined in at that time making all three of them escape in fear. Well, at least they wouldn't be using any Trafuri gems tonight.

One Steel Gigas was more intimidating then she would have thought. So much that deep down she wished she asked Sanada to escort them. It stood at probably double her height and could counter her persona's only real attack. With a closed fist it prepared the windup. "Philotes!" Fear and determination was the only thing keeping her going at this point. The silver haired persona appeared above her casting a barrier that reflected the physical damage. While it protected her the counter didn't hurt the gigas either. Thus they were in a cycle the one who had the most stamina would be declared the winner.

Kikuno dropped to one knee. At this point her stamina was gone and she wasn't going to be the winner. "Medea." Fire balls flew past her body and into the monster. With a cry it burned up to leave behind some trash that meant nothing to them. The servant's shoulders dropped. They came in for two things and only got one.

"I can tell you're disappointed but the Dark Hour is almost over." The fire user held out her hand. "We can always come back." Kikuno's eyes widened. She didn't expect the artist to extend the olive branch so to speak. Even more shocking was the small friendly smile on her face. She took her hand gratefully and stood brushing any dirt off. The second she was on her feet at eye level Chidori had blushed, avoided eye contact and pulled away so fast the maid almost felt whiplash. "Let's go, I'm tired." Without waiting the fire user turned to leave.

'Almost but not quite there?' She thought catching up to the girl in white. Though at this point she was sure she wasn't going to be ditched at the very least.

As they walked on both girls felt the air slowly get colder. The factotum looked at her hands no longer feeling her finger tips. Normally something like this was a sign that all the blood was rushing to her organs and very little was circulating to the limbs. She flexed her fingers and tried to get some of the blood back in her extremities. While rubbing her hands together she walked into Chidori who had apparently stopped moving. "Sorry, is somethi-"

The flaming haired woman already had a pale complexion to begin with. But whatever made her freeze up put terror on her face. There was nothing in front of them and nothing to the side. Weren't they alone? Then she felt a hand grasp tightly at her bicep. "We were here too long. I sense death." The haunting echo of clanking chain made the stronger girl begin moving again. Kikuno didn't fight the fact that she was dragged all the way to the transporter. In fact the short haired girl was grateful, being pulled helped her move her drained body faster.

They didn't stop running until they were outside of Tartarus completely. To be honest neither wanted to stop running. They only stopping to lock the gate and make sure they weren't magically being followed by it. "Are you alright?" The experienced persona user looked as though she couldn't run any longer. The Strega girl was on her knees hunched over while holding her hands to her chest. She looked like she was in a great deal of pain. Was this simply because the redhead wasn't use to such physical strain?

"I was scared. I didn't want to die." She gasped out in a voice of disbelief. Chidori was apathetic and closed off her emotions. For her to say something like this came as a real shock to herself. "I wanted to live." Her fingers stroked at her wrists –there weren't any marks but she knew. "I want to live." She repeated. Kikuno only smiled warmly.

"I'm glad."

---

Kikuno was shocked when a couple days later Chidori was willing to go back to Tartarus. Once making sure SEES wasn't going to show up. They headed up to the same floor. The artist took on a more active role of attacking anything that moved with her hatchet. They didn't allow any of them to escape from battle. When it came to the three targets the Strega member fell back to make sure the shadows didn't want to escape. After a grueling battle finally Kikuno picked up her prize.

"Good job. Do you want to leave or get more experience fighting?"

"No, it's alright. I don't think I can handle the upper floor and I know we've been on this floor far too long. Let's get out of here." They headed toward the exit.

The servant's eyes drifted down to the raw material in her hand. The next time that antique store was opened she would put in her request. "Is there something going on?"

"Hm?"

Chidori's sudden question broke her out of her thoughts. "Junpei's been acting weird. He's pretending to be happy around me when all he does is burn a hole in his feet and look miserable." The maid imagined that he wanted to spear her feelings of Nyx. This girl finally felt the desire to live for the future. Learning about Nyx might put her back to step one. It didn't feel right for her to be the one to spill the beans.

"Then I suggest you tell him how you feel. He responds well towards your feelings doesn't he?"

"I guess." The corners of her lips twitched. "Do you fear attachment knowing that it can be taken away so easily?"

"No, if anything I crave it and want to protect it. When I was a child I was sold off by my parents to be experiment fodder. It hurt and I shut myself off to the world refusing to talk. One day, a girl with curled up hair on her sides came to my room. She approached me every two days till finally she won my attention. Since then, my place is by her side and I couldn't be any happier." She glanced over at the girl in white who seemed interested in her story. "I told you earlier that hospital room has a jinx. Wouldn't you rather fight to protect?"

"Jin and Takaya came by last night. They told me I don't belong anywhere." Well, that explained why she was so willing to go into Tartarus this time around. She was afraid they would come back for her and use force. The security around the Strega member lightened greatly after the help she provided. However, if the two men came back maybe the security should be alerted.

"You stayed." The factotum pointed out. The artist had no desire to leave the hospital with no were else to go. While she hated when the doctor visited her she noticed his sessions helped. Medea had been calm and stopped reaching for her throat, literally. She hadn't taken a pill in so long.

"I did. If I stay here I can see Junpei. He said I belong with him."

"You know, if you wanted to go to school you can see more of him."

"School?" They exited the tower. Golden eyes stared at the tower just remembering it was actually a place for learning. Making sure the gate was locked they headed back to the hospital.

"Mitsuru did say she would try to fulfill a wish you have for helping save her."

"Oh, I wasn't listening." Every time prior the ice queen came to talk Chidori would withdraw mentally.

"Figures." Well, the retainer couldn't deny that the empress wasn't intense. The faraway look as she buried her face into her art. It was a shock she never rip the sketch book from her hands when she was talking. "She offered to enroll you in Gekkoukan's art class. Her hope was for you to like them that you would want to be a full time student."

The girl in white looked down. "I'll think about it." The factotum smirked at the progress.

While passing by the mall they observed that bodies seemed to increase every night. Chidori frowned. "It seems to be getting worse, all the lost that is."

"Yeah."

---

Kikuno checked the time on the wall clock. The store will be opening soon. She slept in the other bed then spent the morning with her friend, just talking. "Leaving? Will you return here or go back to work?" There was a slight frown on her face. It was as if the redhead thought that they would never see each other again. There was no denying that the main reason for talking to the artist was to get help.

"I'll come back here soon." Golden eyes were slightly stunned. While she had no real reason to visit didn't mean she would disappear. Especially if she was the only one other than Junpei she considered friends. To calm her mind the factotum promised to visit weekly on her day off. While Gekkoukan had lessons they would hang out. Once school was out they would separate to be with their loved one. It was a nice plan. The fire user gave her a sweet smile and a wave as she disappeared from view.

The assistant reached the antique as the older woman unlocked the door. "I have a request for you." She pulled out both turquoise and took an order form. As she filled out the form she saw how the woman examined the gems. There was a grin on her face as if she hasn't seen such a material in a while.

"I don't have many requests right now, so this won't take long to complete. I'll call you when it's ready." Kikuno gave her thanks. Once that was done she felt a huge weight lifted off her shoulders. The sun shined down on her. It was time to get back to a normal routine for a while. Thankfully nothing but easy things like vacuuming, laundry and cleaning for the foreseeable future.

Days later when it was time to pick up the present the maid stopped by the artist's room for a quick visit. Chidori's profile looked rather unhappy. The short haired girl feared that the other two Strega members stopped by again. The second there eyes met Kikuno realized that she had learned the truth.

"Junpei told me what was happening." Her fingers clenched her bed sheets. "I don't remember my life before the Dark Hour. So if I also lose my memories of the Dark Hour what remains?"

Of course, she had also questioned it. Kikuno liked to think she was prepared for anything. After all she had told Takedera that she was resolved enough to lose memories. Was this a bit of karma if she forgot?

"He came and gave me pain I didn't need. Now, I'm afraid of loss." The girl in the hospital gown felt a mix of emotions. A loss of love and a loss of self. Worrying won't do anything.

Well, this probably won't be a fun visit but she wasn't going to leave like this.

"Do you have any plans for Christmas?"

"I think Junpei planned to take me out of the hospital; dragging me to a movie or something."

"Let's just look forward to that."

---

Christmas had finally rolled around. Kikuno had gifted wrapped Mitsuru's present. She carried it in a bag with other little things she knew the scion would like such as perfume and bathing products to promote relaxation. She waited by the gates after school. Most of the high schoolers were already gone and even the student council members had left. The redhead strolled out leisurely a genuine smile on her face. It seems that she was really looking forward to their date just as much as the maid.

Their hands immediately interlaced. Kikuno quickly placed a kiss on her knuckles. "Shall we go?"

"Let's." The couple headed straight to the mall. It was decked out in golden lights. The tree –well it really wasn't a tree but it imitated one well enough and it did have an illuminated star on top. They walked around the stores before sitting at the bench by the fountain.

"This is for you." She handed over the bag to the heiress. The long haired woman took it gratefully. Each item inside made her happy. Her deep ruby eyes brightened greatly at the Goggle-eyed Idol. It made everything the she had gone through worth it. Mitsuru hugged the doll to her chest.

"Thank you. I have something for you as well. It's back at the dorm with the rest of our plans for the night." The short haired woman was intrigued. What could she have planned? She didn't care much about presents as much as she cared about spending time with her loved one. "If you're ready to go we can continue our date at the dorm."

For some reason her face felt a little hot but she knew there was a smile on her lips. They walked back enjoying the chill in the air. The lobby was empty naturally everyone had their own plans for the holiday. They made a beeline straight for the bedroom.

The first thing Kikuno noticed that was out of place was the portable ice chest near the couch. There was a center piece of a rose bouquet with a glass vase. Near it was a gift bag and two wine glasses. She was lead over to the couch in front of a glass. "I hope you enjoy." The gift bag was handed over. Inside was a teddy bear. The attendant recognized this craftsmanship of the lady at Shinshoudo Antiques. This bear eye's was crafted with real amethyst and the stitching was on point. Other things inside were a Jack Frost doll, red pine bonsai and a mini cactus. They were low effort but pretty plants.

"Thank you, I love it." The domestic help truly loved everything in the bag. Mitsuru had also put a lot of time and thought into it. How many trips to the crane game did she need to get Jack Frost? "What's next?" With a rather impish smirk the empress lifted the cover and pulled out one of the bottles in the cooler.

"Wine? It's a school night, also we're minors." She wasn't against it or anything. Far from it actually, a small drink would be good. It's just the servant aimed to be a moral compass for whenever the president may falter.

"Don't worry we won't be drinking enough to get inebriated. Just enough to taste. If it's father's wish for me to try them with someone special then I can't think of a better time than now." The servant blinked somewhat awestruck. "I asked mother to pick out a few and send them here."

"The madam knows…?"

"Don't want too? We can always do something else."

"I want to share this experience with you. Besides, the world could end soon so we might as well." She shrugged watching the long haired girl popped the cork like she's done it before.

"That's the spirit. Besides we'll be responsible, I won't let you go home tonight." The redhead poured roughly three or four gulps into each glass. "Kikuno? What is it? Your face is as read as my hair. Are you drunk already?"

"You merely threw me off guard, that's all." It didn't seem like the long haired woman realized the innuendo slip out. It didn't take long for her face to return to its natural paleness. She picked up her glass and tapped it. "Cheers." The smooth deep rosy liquid slid down her throat. She licked the remaining drop off her lips. "What do you think?"

Mitsuru hummed as she gave it some thought. "It has body, hefty and viscous. It's good but I think I would prefer something lighter."

"I agree." A thought of Takeharu smiling approving of his daughter's opinion entered her mind. The next wine they tried was the opposite with its refreshing tingly taste. The remaining two were earthy in different ways. One was zesty with the hint of citrus. The last was herby or spice based that left a lingering aftertaste. After the last bottle was poured Mitsuru quickly packed up the remaining bottles. The employee was to take them back with her in the morning.

The ice queen's face had a nice tinge of red to it and she felt compelled to tease. However, eye contact with the sultry expression made her hold her tongue. Their lips met in a long overdue kiss that Kikuno melted into. Her mind shut down allowing instinct to take over. Without thinking she brought her hands to the empress' hips.

Her back pressed into the sofa as she let Mitsuru dominate the kiss. She felt a tongue swipe at her bottom lip asking to proceed forward. She couldn't help but obey at her wine coated tongue slipped inside. There first real passionate kiss and nothing else mattered especially when Mitsuru let out a throaty noise. Kikuno is oh so very aware of the wild beating of her heart.

They didn't stay connect for too long and when the redhead pulled back she wore an unsure appearance. "Again?" Mitsuru asked wishing her friend would lead the next round of kissing. Her self-assured nature could only get so far in this subject. It's not like either one of them has more experience. At least both of them were pretty fast learners, especially with hands on lessons.

The maid nodded silently and pulled her into another one. The president shuffled her weight softly kneeling over her lap. Kikuno had to look up to make eye contact. The way Mitsuru's ruby mane covered half of her face didn't stop her sharp gaze from piecing through. She lovingly brushed her locks behind her ear. Once there mouths came together again the hair simply fell back into place and over the servant's face.

When they broke away for air the assistant lolled her head to the side offering an invitation to explore her skin. The empress nuzzled against her throat occasionally nibbling at her earlobe. The floral scent coming from her tresses was strangely exciting. It was a shampoo she's bought plenty of times before while shopping for her lady. It wasn't a new fragrance. So why was it so intoxicating right now? Was it the mix of body products and the redhead's natural scent that made her feel more chemical reactions in her body?

The employee felt her fingers desperately grasp onto Mitsuru's shirt trying to keep her close. "Whatever time is left I want it to be with you." The scion's husky voice whispered into her ear sending shivered straight down her spine. In what way did she mean? Sex? Or just in general? She could take it either way right now.

"Are you in your right mind? How far…?" Things were rapidly changing in the factotum's head. Should they? Did they want too? Kikuno wouldn't deny this made her feel wanted and more alive than ever before. She wanted to touch and be touched in return.

She was pretty sure they were both rather mental sound. Hot and relaxed didn't necessarily mean wasted after all. What were the boundaries? It was fine keeping things slow and simple for the time being. "My approach for today was letting the air decide. What do you want?"

So she was talking about physical intimacy. A blush spread over her cheeks. "I want our first time to be after you beat Nyx. I want to welcome you home fully; a reward for you to fight for." Not that SEES needed any reason to fight harder for the world. The ice user smiled. It was like something out of a romance novel.

"That's a reward worth fighting death over." She pressed another kiss to her lips. It was light satisfying way to get her emotions and thoughts across. The dark haired girl's frantic brain waves and elevated heart started to slowly calm down. The attendant was coming down from a slight haze of arousal thinking more clearly. Mitsuru didn't seem any different breathing with her lips slightly parted. Lips shouldn't be this hypnotizing. Kikuno swallowed hard. This might be a little hard.

"It gives me time to practice." Mitsuru said in a teasing voice.

"Practice? Practice what? Going to ask the cutest boy you can find to assist you?" Did she notice her staring at her mouth? Even as a joke she liked that idea very much.

"Even if I did, I don't see how Koromaru would be able to help me here."

Kikuno snorted and rolled her eyes. "Don't practice with anyone other than me." This might be the bluntest demand that has even escaped the maid's mouth. She averted her eyes shyly feeling a bit scrutinized. "Are experience must remain around the same level. I refuse to feel inadequate on this matter."

"I wouldn't do anything untasteful. How much practice do you want right now?" Kikuno paused to think. If they continued there would be no hiding the altercation that was made on her body. Then again it would be better to get that over with now.

"I have something I want to show you. It's my biggest secret at the moment. Please continue investigating a little further down." With interest and curiosity Mitsuru planted her lips back on Kikuno's jugular. While her moth was busy Kikuno led the scion's hands to the buttons of her shirt. Automatically she popped a few of them without looking. The heiress' mouth traced over her collar bones. A small pleasurable whimper escaped her throat.

Mitsuru pulled away to look at her. "I love hearing your noises no matter how subtle they are. It's endearing." Her attention returned back to her chest. The redhead's eyes narrowed in confusion. "Kikuno? What happened?"

"I had a small surgery early this year." Any playfulness that clouded her eyes earlier was gone replaced with concern.

"What's wrong? I don't recall you ever having problems."

"I don't have any problems; you have nothing to worry about."

"Then?"

"I just want to be by your side. But I know I'm not there yet." Mitsuru's brows furred in confusion but she didn't push her to elaborate. As long as her organs weren't failing she figured the ruby haired woman would drop it despite being persistent. The factotum pulled her in for another distracting breath sucking kiss. "See, both my lungs and heart are very healthy, promise." Her kisses were far less nervous then before but slow and filled with newly found confidence.

Tenderly she kissed the mark. The area wasn't sensitive but the short haired girl felt a pulse from inside. "…Alright I'll drop it for now. Let's just get ready for bed." When the redhead pulled away the servant immediately felt colder without her body heat.

Mitsuru pulled out two sets of nightwear handing one pair over. The dark haired woman took them gratefully changing slowly to see if she got a rise out of her lover. It was kind of disappointing when she didn't even attempt to glimpse her way. Her eyes drifted to the floor. Well, she did say no so that was probably the reason.

From behind arms wrap around her middle pressing up against her back. A couple of kisses landed on her nape. "Thank you for a wonderful date I can't wait for the next." The genuine tone in her husky voice made a chill ran up her spine.

The empress led her to the bed and crawled in first. Kikuno slipped in her body unwinding into the mattress. It was even better when the president latch on and snuggled. She could feel the palpitations of Mitsuru's heart against her own. It was reassuring and sleep came surprisingly easy to both of them.

When the morning came neither really wanted to move. With their limbs were tangled together, it was snug and satisfying. The maid gleamed when she felt lips press against her forehead in a chaste kiss. Her eyes fluttered opened to look up at Mitsuru's crimson gems. "Sorry, did I wake you?"

"No you didn't. How do you feel?"

"I'm not hung over if that's what you're asking."

"What's 243x760x80?"

"14,774,400."

"A shame you're sound in mind, a part of me was hoping to use inebriation as an excuse to stay in bed with you all day." Her voice was full of coy charm. So much for wanting to be a moral compass she thought to herself. With a light chortle and one last kiss the scion left the bed. The lack of her warm body made the maid lose interest in remaining in bed almost immediately. The employee got up and made the bed before getting dressed for the day. "I'll meet you downstairs." Taking the ice chest she left the room.

From top of the stairs something that piqued her interest was spotted on the floor below. The field leader and his date leaving the boy's floor together. A wicked smile spread over her face. From behind she heard the bedroom door softly shut. "Kikuno, what are you looking at?" The heiress walked up behind her.

"Nothing, let's go down."

Sitting at the table with a freshly made breakfast of toast was Yukari and Minato. "Good morning, you two. How was your holiday night?" The teasing maid made sure to emphases on the last word even sending a wink Yukari's way. The brunette quickly blushed and looked away. That was the expression the retainer expected to see. She chuckled to herself.

"Well, what about you?" The archer tried to get her face under control to throw the question back on the servant.

"It was fantastic." Without a hint of shame she declared with a pleased look while watching the gears turn in Yukari's head at the meaning.

---

This was it. Tonight was the big day. Because of it all of Sunday was spent together. Just this once the president allowed herself a lazy day of rolling around in bed. A heated make out session throughout the day. Late in the evening they broke away so the empress could have a meeting with SEES. Kikuno stayed cuddled into the mattress trying to stay calm. If she didn't surely she would end up pacing around the room. While calm and optimistic on the outside she couldn't deny the fear and worry she felt on the inside. Mitsuru will come back, she promised after all. She has to.

From the bed she heard the footsteps of the group walking down stairs. That must have meant that the meeting was over. She didn't expect the ice queen to say goodbye to her again. After the stampede on the flight of steps stopped she next heard the door squeak shut. Then the silent of dead air and she knew she was alone in the dorm.

The second that the Dark Hour started something felt odd. Philotes didn't even need to tell her that something was different. She left the dorm using full speed. The sky was an intimidating green, shadows were crawling around and not a single person was transmogrified. Everyone looked just as confused as everyone else.

Right before her eyes a citizen liquefied into a black mess.

It was horrifying to say the least. But she still didn't let it stop her from headed to Tartarus. Only half the people were panicking while others seemed to welcome it. For some reason it seemed all the more menacing and larger tonight. Just beyond the gate a familiar redhead stood. Kikuno joined her. "Great minds think alike?" The factotum greeted not truly knowing what to say. Regardless of being half the strength of any of the SEES members both girls still felt the need to show up. If either went into the tower now they would be more than likely a burden.

"I told Medea to protect Junpei since I can't be there for him." She held onto to evoker despite not being able to use it anymore.

The short haired girl squeezed her eyes tight and prayed. "Philotes, please protect Mitsuru." She felt the persona answer her call and cast makarakarn. Honestly, she could've been out of range for the spell to protect the ice user. She still felt it drain at her energy all the same. Was it helpful? This was all she could do.

People who had yet to get attack were starting to gather at the gates of the school. The huge tower acted like a beacon and curious souls would wonder towards. But was there something else as well? Did something other than curiosity bring them here?

An intense pressure from above hit them making look up. If they were feeling it from down here than feeling it from 264 floors higher must be insane. It wanted to force them down to their knees but the girls remained strong on their feet. She prayed to Philotes once more for protection for the group.

Kikuno squinted trying to figure out what was happening above. She couldn't really describe what was going on. Was something coming down from the sky? It was huge larger then Tartarus itself. To attempt to define the scene, it was as if the moon had a shadow. It sort of resembled a dead looking blood red eye. It was something that would only be seen in one's own nightmare. It truly looks like some higher being was watching over the human species.

They couldn't see anything that was going on; only waited in silent prayer. After about ten minutes since the eye creature appeared a blinding light made Tartarus seem like a lighthouse. When the light faded Nyx was gone from the sky. What? There wasn't a single trace of anything abnormal. More time passed before the SEES members started to exit the tower. Tears of relief burned at the back of her eyes when she saw Mitsuru. She looked tired, had some cuts and bruises but nothing too awful.

The factotum rushed over and pulled her into an embrace as gentle as possible to not hurt any unseen wounds. The heiress didn't fight it she might've been too tired even if she wanted too. Chidori also ran over to Junpei. However she lacked the courage to hug him. Instead she threw his arm over her shoulders to support part of his weight. SEES turned their attention back to the entrance way and no one dared to move. It was only then that the servant realized that not everyone was here. SEES leader was nowhere to be seen.

Minutes later and as normal as possible the boy swaggered out flashing a small smile that everyone returned. The second Minato was out Tartarus the tower started to fold in on itself never to return. The school returned to its former glory and the large group headed home. The trip was surprisingly quiet. Kikuno figured Junpei would be trying to get everyone to celebrate. Especially since he didn't look that bad either; Medea must have done a good job protecting him.

Everyone split up to their own rooms for some well-deserved rest. It was a school night.

---

The morning was normal. Which was a little odd considering what happened the night before. The bruises the president received from the fight were completely gone. While the hickeys she placed on her shoulder before the battle still remained. Kikuno woke her lady up in the morning with a sweet kiss. The redhead groaned but opened her eyes rather unwillingly. The maid chuckled at the still tired heiress taking the opportunity to joke. "Was I too much for you yesterday?"

"You say that like we indulged in premarital fornication."

The maid winced with a frowned. "I'm sorry I teased you, please don't say that again." The empress chuckled at her small victory and readied herself for the day. "Any plans for today?"

"After school the student council will start planning graduation in three months." The dark haired girl dressed and made the bed swiftly. Once immaculate they left the bedroom and headed for the lobby.

Two underclassmen were already down partaking of their breakfast. "Arisato, you don't look good." Slight concern showed on the ice user's face. The dark haired girl cocked her head in confusion hearing the use of his last name. "Maybe, you should take the day off and recover?"

The boy shook his head. He stood to toss his half eaten food away and grab his bag. "See you at school." He threw his bag over his shoulder and left the dorm. The boy seemed kind of moody. He saved the world yesterday why was he upset? What was going on?

"Takeba, is he alright?" The retainer perked up curiously, again with the last name? Why? The scion considered Yukari to be her best friend for months.

"He's probably just tired." The brunette offered a cold offhand comment. Quickly she finished her food and left immediately after. What was going on? Was it something the assistant could help with?

"My Lady, did you two have a fight?" Though when would that have happened? Not on the walk home that's for sure.

Mitsuru looked confused and mildly surprised. "No, not at all. What gave you that idea?"

"Nothing…"

After parting ways the short haired girl headed to the hospital. Chidori was gone leaving Kikuno to her thoughts. Memories of the Dark Hour seemed to be gone within SEES. While her mind was admittedly a bit foggy she certainly remembered everything important. So everything that happened in the Dark Hour was gone? All the bonding moments and hard times SEES overcame were wiped away?

The lack of friendship with SEES was sad for sure. Did this one con outweigh the pros? Like forgetting all the bad things? The near fetal injuries and nightmare they returned with? Multiple encounters with the gun wielding Death. Now, they can all focus on a peaceful future. The redhead didn't seem particularly happier now.

Deep down she knew that each of them would want to remember. However, you're not supposed to force memories on an amnesiac either. What subtle things could she do for them? There was no way she could recreate anything that happened between Mitsuru and Yukari. Kikuno sighed.

From across the street she saw Aigis looking down and gloomy. Slowly she approached offering a somewhat forced smile. "You're not going to school?" For some reason her presented seemed to surprise the robot.

"Ms. Kikuno..." The blonde frowned. "No one seems to remember me or the promise we made either."

"But you do?" Her eyes widened slightly her heart beat picked up with hope. Could the memories return? Why is Aigis the only one other than her? Actually why did she remember? What made them special?

"I do. I suspect it has something to do with my creation as a shadow weapon." The bot answered as if able to reads minds. "No one really acknowledged me this morning. Yoshino, Chidori is now in the class next to ours with Ms. Fuuka." Well, that answered one question at least. I guess she did end up taking Mitsuru on her offer. The Strega girl was probably happier now.

"Why do I remember then?"

"If I had to guess it's because you feel similar to me." Kikuno raised an eyebrow in befuddlement. "Ah, by that I mean I sense something in you that's like my Papillon heart." The blonde touched her chest feeling a warm pulse in response. Philotes always reacted to other plumes.

'I guess the Plume of Dusk don't disappear with Nyx.'

If that was the case maybe this was one of the best choices she made. "I'm afraid and want them to remember. Will you help me?" The blonde asked.

"Of course."

---

Mitsuru cuddled into Kikuno's waiting embrace. She affectionately nuzzled into the maid's chest as Kikuno ran her fingers through her hair playing with it absently mindedly. "Congratulations on graduating."

"I haven't graduated yet."

"A technicality, besides it didn't stop us from opening wine." Just four more bottles in the same ice chest. It was almost a repeat of Christmas. She was feeling warm and relaxed. The tingling sensation of the empress' lips sucking her neck and the soft mewls that encouraged Mitsuru to boldly do more.

She felt hands slip under her shirt over her stomach. After tickling her skin and making the servant wiggle under her mercy the heiress' hands gripped the hem of her shirt. She pulled away to tug the garment over her head. Mitsuru paused to take a good look.

The short haired girl felt a bit uncomfortable under the scrutiny. "Something wrong? You've seen me in a bra before."

Mitsuru blinked as if she forgot where she was. "Ah, sorry, no." The heiress placed a kiss on her welted skin. "I feel like I've forgotten something and I'm trying to remember." The factotum perked up and held her breath. She didn't want to do anything that would cause her love from losing her thoughts. Nothing that she or Aigis did prior had any effect on their memories. Had the servant known this would be a trigger earlier she would've flashed her months ago.

"Where did this scar come from? I don't recall you having lung problems." Her finger traced over the length of the blemish. It was a precision cut caused from surgery and not outward injuries.

"I got this to protect you from the –shadows.-" The assistant accentuated to see if there was any recognition in her maroon colored eyes. There really wasn't the light in her eyes anymore. But it was progress and still worth telling Aigis about in the morning. Kikuno felt her bra loosen her attention snapping back to the girl in front of her. They did want to celebrate after Nyx but right now didn't seem like an appropriate time. Not when Mitsuru probably didn't even remember how they got together. "Mitsuru?" Her tone was slightly uneasy.

"Don't worry; I won't go much further than this."

---

The couple walked down to the lobby. Kikuno expected to see it filled but only Minato was down.

"You've really been getting worse, Arisato. Kikuno can escort you to the hospital if you would like." The maid offered a friendly smile and a bow.

The boy shook his head. "Can't, need to keep a promise today." He stood to toss his half eaten food away and grab his bag. "See you at school." He threw his bag over his shoulder and left the dorm.

"Promise…?" The factotum observed Mitsuru's brows knitted in thought. Two underclassmen rushed downstairs ignoring them completely to leave the dorm. The noise must've stop whatever was going through her head. "What are your plans while the ceremony is going on?"

"Try and get in contact with a friend." The short haired woman gave it a second. It would be nice to reach out to the Strega member. Chances are she would ditch the whole ceremony to draw something.

"Is that so? Have fun then, I'll see you later."

They split up half on their walk. Kikuno headed towards the mall. There weren't too many areas that a high schooler would go to ditch school. As expected, Chidori sat at the fountain holding her sketch book. The girl in white looked up and smiled her. "Kikuno, it's been a while."

"How have you been?" She sat down.

"Well. Junpei has been taking me out a lot. We have a movie date later. What about you? Anything new in your life?"

"I've been studying how to pilot a helicopter."

Chidori blink in disbelieve not expecting that answer. "Kirijo is keeping you busy." It was something she wanted for herself, nothing forced on her. She asked Kirijo security about lessons and he was willing to teach her. Now she just needed to pass a test for an official license. There was something Kikuno picked up on that made her smile. The girl in white didn't seem to tense up at the mention of the Kirijo name anymore.

"I'm going to ask you an odd question now. Do you remember how we became friends?"

The long haired woman paused to think. "I don't remember exactly. However, what I do recall is that you were stubborn and persistent." The redhead flipped through the previous pages of her book. "I found something earlier that I don't remember either."

"You drew me?" The maid leaned over to get a good look. It was a sketch of a sleeping Kikuno. The surrounding area wasn't as detailed as her face. You could still make out that it was the hospital room. She could imagine that it happened on one of the days they went to Tartarus and she was too tired to get a hotel room.

"Apparently, though I don't recall doing it."

"Looks good, I just wish you didn't draw me with drool." The maid pouted and light-heartedly elbowed her in the side.

"I didn't its shading." The artist laughed naturally. Both of them appreciating the others company. The conversation topics didn't run out. The retainer learned of her hopes and dreams while sharing her own. Time just past and neither of them even realized.

The short haired girl felt her cell go off. At roughly the same time the redhead's phone also went off. Kikuno pulled it out and read the message Mitsuru sent. "Minato has been taken to the hospital, he fainted during the ceremony." Chidori's message probably said the same thing based on the timing.

Sincere worry overcame her face. "Let's go."

It didn't take long for them to arrive after receiving the texts. They rushed into the lobby were SEES looked downright miserable. Mitsuru stepped away from Yukari to embrace her love tightly. "I remember; we all did." From the corner of Kikuno's eyes she saw Chidori rushed over to her boyfriend's side. "We met up for the promise meeting…" The expressions really gave away the next part of the story. "He wouldn't wake up, but he's breathing. We're waiting for word of his condition."

She glanced around taking in everyone condition. Aigis was completely unresponsive, Ken and Koromaru were just sad. Everyone else looked like they were self-loathing for forgetting in the first place. It was at least an hour of waiting around before the doctor walked over to them a look of dismal on his face.

"I'm sorry."

The brunette immediately broke out in tears. The empress went back to her side and wrapped an arm around her shoulders keeping her close. Both Akihiko and Junpei looked like they were about to punch a wall. Chidori wrapping her arms around him probably stopped that thought quickly. Koromaru wined softly and turned to Ken for comfort. The servant walked over by the robot who was far too silent for comfort. Mitsuru's somber eyes met her own and the unspoken order was official.

'Plan a funeral.'

---

Mitsuru finally dropped her guard when she entered her dorm room. The past week had been extra hard. Kikuno had requested more time off to stay by the president's side during this. She pulled the redhead to her chest and rubbed her back tenderly. Soundless tears rolled down her cheeks and into her shirt. In front of others –Yukari especially- she remained strong and comforting. Behind closed doors she now easily turned to her love for the same support she gave. It didn't feel like it was that long ago she wore the same mourning kimono for her father. Right now she wanted to mourn properly. The maid stayed quiet and just caressed her back and stroked her hair.

Yukari and Aigis had completely withdrawn themselves. Aigis sounded much more robotic while Yukari was never around. It hurt knowing her friends were in pain. The assistant worried about all of them.

"We never really got to celebrate. Not the defeat of Nyx, regaining our memories or even graduation." Well, they did open some wine but that wasn't what she was referring too.

"It's alright; it just wasn't meant to be yet." She wasn't upset in the slightest by the lack of physical union. If anything when it finally happens it's bound to be better. Or so the various romance books she read over the years thought her.

"I have a test to take so I'll miss the party tonight but I'll come back tomorrow to help move your stuff." The Kirijo security had already moved everything shadow related –minus Aigis' stuff. Most of the furniture was actually going to stay behind. Even little things like vases could all stay. All that needed to go was personal items.

With the death of their leader there wasn't time for her to pack yet. On the other hand she noticed that Yukari couldn't wait to be gone of the dorm. She was never around, she didn't even seem like she enjoyed being around any of them anymore.

"Thank you. What test? Are you going to join me in university?" Mitsuru perked up a little. When the retainer first started to life with them the little heiress wanted to enroll her in the same school so they could be together. As flattering as it was Kikuno preferred home schooling or any type of one on one courses. She wanted to move at her own pace and be able to be available if either the master or madam needed her. After hearing that Mitsuru submitted, it was her life and choice after all.

"Not quite but I'll tell you everything when I pass." The short haired girl winked while the redhead just pouted.

"Good luck." Without needing to voice her wish the empress pulled her into a good luck kiss. One hand caressed her check while the other wrapped around her shoulders and grazed the curls of her nape mirthfully. When Kikuno pulled back she felt more energized.

"Thank you."

---

When the clock struck midnight the hair on Kikuno's arms stood erect. Everything was fine on the outside but something crept into her chest. Just to make sure the employee checked up on Hanae who was sleeping peacefully. Tomorrow –or rather later today- the dark haired girl would drive out and help pack the last of Mitsuru's belongings. Nevertheless, she pulled out her phone just to check up on the situation. Neither text nor call got through.

The maid felt a strange sense of Déjà vu.

That was probably from suddenly feeling the Dark Hour's presence again after so many months without it.

Knowing that there wasn't anything she could do the attendant went to bed for a few hours of sleep before the schedule meeting time.

It was evening when she arrived at the dorm. The assistant placed her hand on the handle finding it unable to budge. Was the door locked? The doors were never locked at this time plus Mitsuru was expecting her. With the weird feeling of the Dark Hour returning this couldn't be good. Regardless she pulled out a spare key and stuck it in the lock. She found herself unable to turn the key in either direction.

'Something happened to our sense of time.'

Philotes spoke out making the servant expect the worse. It's been a while since her persona vocalized anything. Normally when she does speak it's always a warning of some sort.

The maid felt a strange sense of Déjà vu, again.

She pulled out her phone to see if it would connect. Neither text nor call got through. "What can I do?"

'Unfortunately, nothing much. Whatever is happening is only happening inside.'

Feeling hopeless she sat down on the steps. Every so often someone would walk by but nothing else happened. Activity around the city died down the later it got and still she sat curled up on the same step.

The clock hit midnight the remaining feeling of the Dark Hour faded away. The day and month rolled over. Kikuno perked up at the sound of the door creaking opened. SEES looked just as relieved as she did to see the entrance finally open. "You look like one of the lost just sitting there." Ignoring Junpei's dull tease she got up and greeted them. Just past them she noticed that Aigis was asleep on the couch.

"A lot happened." The ice user started, well that was expected when the maid couldn't get in contact with the redhead for hours on end. While the heiress explained all the happened everyone else helped the blonde back to her room. They hooked her up and tried to do maintenance on her.

"…We couldn't stand to see time move on. We don't want to accept the loss of someone precious. So time stopped moving forward. As result we were trapped." The factotum listened with fascination. She knew a few things from what Philotes had mention before.

The navigator sighed unable to get a result. "She's not waking up." Mitsuru pulled out her phone trying to get the lab on the line. It was too late at night for anyone to be there. "Her synaptic circuits are burned out. I can replace faulty parts but she won't be the Aigis we know…"

"Aigis…"

The bot grunted and opened one eye. "Did someone call me?"

"Aigis?! How-?"

"I think I was having a dream."

"Don't scare us like that." The archer lightly scolded while sighing in relief.

"Was it a good dream?" The maid asked with a warm smile.

"Yes!" The weapon replied with a cheerful beam.

"I thought about it a lot during this -about collecting everyone's evoker- I'm calling that off. I want you to keep the evokers. It's a way to protect yourself from unforeseen circumstances and to remember what we've been through together." There was a nod of solidarity before the group broke off for the rest of the night.

Everyone headed to their own rooms for the last night at the dorm. "By the way I did pack all your clothes with mine. I figured when I get settled in you would stay with me every so often."

"Thank you." They changed and settled into the homey mattress for the night. The servant clung onto the empress arms wrapped tightly around her middle almost refusing to let go. If only she went to the party.

"Kikuno, I've came to another decision." The short haired woman idly looked up. "To some extent shadows are still a threat, in fact this proves they can't ever truly go away. So I've decided to start a secret organization that can handle it. The Shadow Operatives, aimed to take care of everything from the shadows -behind the scenes."

"Catchy. Where can I send my resume? I recently got my private helicopter pilot license."

"What? Oh, was that the test? Impressive, but wouldn't you ra-"

"As much as I love your mother; I want to stay by your side no matter what happens." Kikuno bluntly cut her off not needing to hear the rest of her words. "Surely I've proved this to you time and again?" While she loved serving Hanae she wanted to be use to Mitsuru. Hanae knew and supported her choice always allowing her to travel to the dorm more than before. The elder woman preferred her to be watchful around her daughter anyway, she was nothing but supportive.

"You have, forgive my insecurities." The long haired woman was getting better about it overall, Kikuno wouldn't complain.

"Don't worry I'm here to remind you." The attendant nipped at her ear. "I'm not as strong as you or anyone else in SEES but I'll keep practicing and improving."

"With all you do, you're just as strong as anyone here. I appreciate that I can always turn to you for anything." Always attentive to her needs hands slyly slipped under her shit pushing it upwards. One hand enjoyed the weight of her breast while the other traveled below the band of her skirt.

"Personas are the power of one's heart, right?" Mitsuru let out a hum of affirmation feeling hands touch skin that hasn't been touched in this way before. "Then I'll become one of the strongest persona users for you." Her voice was filled to the brim with purpose and tenacity. Kikuno stare closely into her eyes. It was a deep stare that defined their connection an all levels. Fingers slipped between her legs. If only this night could've been repeated.

"Wait, what?" Scarlet eyes widened thinking she might've misheard her love. Kikuno smirked naughtily.

As expected she didn't elaborate.