Paradox Arc:
Chapter 63: Dreaming the Moonlight
Makoto Yuki
After school - 5/10/2009 - Velvet Room
"You were right, Igor," Makoto said, "The effect of my action saved Shinjiro's life. I have no excuse."
Igor and Theodore, however, remained silent. Though Theodore did gasp slightly at the reveal when he entered the room earlier. The attendant's eyes switched between him and his master quickly, expecting the argument to erupt. But the event happened a while ago. Now, Theodore held the composed expression like an attendant should. While he spoke nothing, Igor's smile never faltered, almost as though there's nothing could make him frown. He shuddered at the thought.
"Indeed so. Your action was very close to severing the connection you have with your original world. A bad decision, Minato-sama," Igor finally spoke, but his fingers dangling like snakes, his lips attempted to seal another facet, "Though, seeing as your comrade has fallen into a coma, he is technically 'dead' to the world. Yes, the world can still be saved."
"So my actions are excused?" Makoto chuckled, his hands rested into his pocket as he relieved the tense, "Because there's something's been bugging my mind."
Igor gestured his hand away, telling him to proceed.
"Philemon was the one who showed me my first meeting with Hamuko," Makoto recapped his memories, "In one of my dreams with her, she mentioned Shinjiro, released from the hospital. Get it? He was hospitalized and released in my dream. Does it predestined to happen, or is it Hamuko's the one who saved him?"
Theodore peeked at Igor without tilting his head, assuming Makoto wouldn't notice the attendant's gloved fingers fidgeting the book nervously.
"Perhaps it was meant to be," Igor answered, "My master show you exactly the dreams you need for your mission. If you see Shinjiro was hospitalized, then he will be."
"So it's not my fault?" He raised his eyebrows suspiciously. It seemed too good to be true, seeing as Igor nodded. "Well... thank you. Good to hear."
He never expected to leave the room in one piece. But still, one dream he had remained in his thoughts. "Igor?"
"Yes, Minato-sama?" Igor focused on him. Should he tell them? He didn't know how to describe the mysterious dream as well. What was that about?
"Nevermind..." Makoto decided to keep it to himself for now, "I guess I just have to keep doing what I always do, correct?"
"We await your next visit," Igor bowed slightly.
The moment he left the room, Theodore let out a huge breath.
"Something happened," The attendant said towards Igor, "Master Igor, I mean no disrespect, but shouldn't we tell him about the whole truth by now? I mean, he already felt it! I'm sure Minato-sama will understand if we explain it to him."
"Oh, Theodore," Igor disagreed, "This is Master Philemon's last wish. He will understand, but will he handle the truth about Hamuko Arisato and this world?"
"Master Philemon's last wish..." Theodore's expression was grave, "This can't be happening. If Nyarlathotep finds out..."
"He won't," Igor interrupted. But his words were unconvincing. The data was still incomplete.
[MEMORY REPROGRAMMED AT 56%]
Hamuko Arisato
After School - 11/10/2009 - Beef Bowl Shop, Iwatodai Station, Tatsumi Port Island
It's been a week since Shinjiro's presence was felt in the dorm. His name was rarely mentioned anymore, seeing as everyone's face will grow heavier upon it. His room was left as it was, though Hamuko wasn't able to peek at his door without losing her mood. The days afterward just felt empty, like pretending the man didn't exist, only in their heart. In truth, she felt the same way. Time delivered all of them to the same end. The living must keep on living.
Still, there was nothing wrong with a bit reminiscence, like eating his usual meal. Hamuko stared blankly at Shinjiro's favorite set which was served in front of her. She left it as it was, the same way Shinjiro did it whenever they came to eat here. The beanie-hat man liked it warm, always. She peeked to the empty chair on her left, where Shinjiro had once sat, then returned her eyes to the bowl.
"The udon will grow cold," The boy sitting to her right side said, though he didn't raise his chopstick as well, waiting for her, "Can we hurry up? I know this place brings you some bad memories."
"I like it, actually," Hamuko curved her lips in response, "It's the only other place where I can feel his presence other than the dorm. This is his favorite shop, Ken-kun."
"Oh..." Ken Amada, still dressed in his school uniform, tilted his head downward in realization. It seemed he had recovered from the trauma of the incident, at least from her eyes, "So... what's this favor you want from me?"
Hamuko reached for her pocket and gently took out a small broken object. The bullet had been removed for investigation, leaving a hole at the side of the leather watch. The front glass left cracks that blinded the entire reading of the minute and hour hands. There's no fixing it anymore. Yet Hamuko cradled it as carefully as she could and laid it on the table.
"Ken-kun, if you don't mind... " Hamuko said, sliding the watch to the boy's front, "Can you keep this?"
"What?" His mouth was left agape, expecting her to tease him, "But it's Shinjiro-senpai's watch. He entrusted it to you."
"No," Hamuko corrected him, "He wanted me to move on. He gave it to me because he doesn't need it anymore. I tried to throw it away, but I couldn't. So I thought..."
"...I see," Ken replied, but still left the watch where it was, "Why not Akihiko-senpai?"
"There's a circumstance which makes it difficult," Hamuko finally lifted her chopstick, "But if you don't want to, then just leave it there. Go on, today's lunch is on me."
Ken's cheek was red when he lifted his chopstick. During the slow eating, the young boy reached out his hand for the watch but retracted his hand in hesitation.
"I'm sorry, but I will have to refuse," Ken faced her after they both finished their bowl, "If I may suggest, why not Makoto-senpai? He's quite accepting of everything, despite his solitude."
Her heart nearly dropped upon the boy's name. It must not be him. He's the main reason she wanted to be apart from the watch in the first place.
"No, not him," Hamuko shook her head, "Especially him..."
"Pardon?" Ken tilted his head to peek at her face, which she quickly composed herself.
"What I mean is, he probably won't understand the value of this thing as much as Shinjiro wants. I can't explain until you understand..."
"Oh? It's fine. I understand," Ken failed to give conviction to his words, but he turned serious instantly, "Anyway, sorry. I need to go. And... On the second thought, it's not proper to let my senpai treat me."
Ken placed a paper bill next to the watch with some extras for her meal as well. He began to leave his chair, but suddenly he paused, "Uh, Hamuko-senpai?"
"What is it?" Hamuko attempted to read his expression.
"Last month, I overheard Mitsuru-senpai said..." Ken suddenly paused, looking downward and bit his lips in deep thoughts. Something clamped his tongue, realizing he had regretted mentioned it, "...Nevermind. Just something crossed my mind about Makoto-senpai," He hastily fetched his bag and turned away, "Forget I said anything."
He left her in a rush, almost bumped into a kid on his way out. It had to be about their identical backgrounds. Ken wasn't the first to question it. Did it still twig people's curiosity about their similar past? 'Despite his solitude', Ken said. What was there to doubt the blue-haired boy? Whoever he was in the past, it mattered not to her. Currently, all she needed to do was flesh out her feelings for him.
But if there's a way to make the team regain their trust in him...
Makoto Yuki
Evening - 17/10/2009 - Chagall Cafe, Paulownia Mall
Mid-term exams were exaggerating, the same as his 'first' attempt at it. It was impossible to fail his score at this point. From the way Hamuko presented herself as she left the classroom, it seemed she already had enough knowledge to score the top spot as well. Perhaps the proudness was the main reason why she invited him to the cafe for the day, although she seemed upset when he suggested inviting others. Two cups of Pheromone coffee were served on the round table with the girl in front of him, which made him wondered if she needed the extra charms. The cafe lacked customers, but students did appear for a drink now and then.
"I thought you would rather fast foods for celebrations?" Makoto said, but his hands reached for his cup.
"Actually, I need to talk to you," Hamuko focused on his face intensely without glancing at her cup, "I hope I'm not asking for too much. After you help me with everything, I just realized I need a breather myself."
Makoto narrowed his eyes, "Go on."
"Okay, here goes..." Hamuko took a deep breath, "Makoto-kun, for the last Shadow operation, I want you to take over my position as a squad leader of SEES."
Makoto hurriedly placed the coffee on its plate before uprighted his position, "Why? ...No, you can't possibly blame yourself for what happened with Shinjiro. You handled it better than anyone could."
"You can say it's part of the reason," Sullenness filled her face, "I needed the experience to be at the backline. For once, I like someone to question my command instead of blindly following my order."
"Does the rest know?"
"I haven't told them yet."
"That's not wise. They're used to your command. It will be hard to navigate them."
"Don't worry. They will listen to you."
He recalled Mitsuru's conversation last month, "I'm not sure, but if you insist..."
They both enjoyed gulping the coffee and chatted about many things, mainly about the 'last' Arcana Shadow they have to defeat. Soon, Ryoji Mochizuki will be born, followed by the decision of killing him. Then, the battle with Nyx. Three months left. He nearly forgot everything about the ongoing prophecy in his old world. Four Horsemen better be worth the effort.
"So, umm..." Hamuko tugged her skirt nervously, "I was thinking. After we defeated the last Shadow, I wonder if there's something you and I can do together."
"You lost me, Hamuko-chan."
"What I'm trying to say is..." Hamuko coughed a bit, adjusting her seat position again. Odd, why was she so nervous? "...You help me more than anyone ever did in this team. I want to repay you with something."
Makoto tilted his head backward in understanding, "If I tell you it's nothing to worry about, you would get angry."
"You know me so well," Hamuko giggled, "Pick a thing, anything. It's my treat."
"You made it difficult instead," He placed one elbow on the table and rested his cheeks on the palm, "But I'm just happy as long as I'm with you, Hamuko-chan."
Something changed in her ever since she recovered from Shinjiro's incident. Her conversation with him always led to awkwardness for an unknown reason. This time, it was visible on her face. Her face was burning red.
"Don't phase it that way to me," Hamuko hid her reddened face unsuccessfully, "I almost had the wrong idea."
"Hmm?" Makoto tilted his head at her question, but he realized his wording and removed his elbow away, "Oh! Sorry. I didn't mean it like that. I'm serious, though. I'm fine with anything you do."
"Then..." Her cheeks had lost its redness as she pressed her chin with her index fingers. Very cute of her, "How about we go to the karaoke?"
"Eh...?" Makoto stared at her with a blank face. She quickly thought of new options.
"Beach...?"
"Nah."
"Movies?"
"Boring."
"You said you're fine with anything!" Hamuko pouted her face and curved her eyebrows.
"Maybe we should decide after the fight," Makoto said but wishing he retraced his words. Wasn't Shuji's betrayal began the day after Arcana Hanged Man fight? "I mean after 'things' calm down first. So..." He glanced at his watch and noticed it was past 5 in the evening. He pulled his chair backward, "Let's continue another time, it's late. Talk to our teams, there's no rush. Well, see you."
"Wait!" Hamuko hurriedly paused him and leaped from her seat as well, "Can I share an umbrella with you? It's raining outside."
He glanced at the outdoor and widened his eyes before turning to her.
"See, I forgot my umbrella..." Hamuko tugged her hair embarrassingly.
Makoto smiled at her silliness, then at himself, "The thing is... I forgot mine too."
The girl seemed dejected. Still, they ended up walking together to the bus stop, where they sat on the steel bench and waited for the rain to cease. Many passengers whipped out their umbrellas, though the quiet young kid sitting on the bench not far from them chose to wait as well, wearing a dark raincoat and a small pair of sandals. He failed to notice Hamuko lying her head on his shoulder with a yawn at first, and he followed her yawn as well.
"*yawn*... So tired..." Hamuko muttered, "I should go to bed early today..."
"*yawn* Then we rest at home, not here," He gently pushed her head away, "Geez, you mess up your hair like this. Come on, it's not proper. You won't like it if people get the wrong idea."
The girl ignored him at first, and he let her. He almost always let her do whatever she wants, and yet it made him happy to see her achieved it. It's like seeing himself sharing that happiness as well. The world, the joy, he felt as though he wanted to give her anything for her smile. She was so beautiful when she did so. His fingers stroked her front hair gently and beheld the moonly face closed to him. He wondered who she resembled to be his alternate self? Was it an image of his mother? It felt like a lifetime ago. His failure, his deeds, everything was hers now. He wanted to protect her. I need you. It's what she said to him. Somehow, that never stopped making him smile. Her smell was aromatic.
He immediately pulled his hand away in realization. 'What in the world am I doing?' He needed to stop this foolish thought. Shinjiro was the one for her. The sudden movement he made eventually startled her.
"...Ek!" She finally nudged herself straight in surprise when she noticed what she had done, but then composed herself when she searched around. She quickly resumed her resting on his shoulder, though she was a bit shy about it, "There's no one here. Besides, the rain won't stop for another half an hour. I like being close to you, a-as friends, of course."
"Friends don't do this to each other," He laughed nervously, glancing at the kid in the raincoat not far from him, "We're not alone though, that kid might see us... Huh? Where did he go?"
He blinked. The kid sitting not far from him earlier was gone. Very faintly, he felt the Contact Card in his pocket vibrating for a while before it faded. Fortunately, Hamuko didn't notice it.
[MEMORY REPROGRAMMED AT 83%]
Hamuko Arisato
Dark Hour - 3/11/2009 - Moonlight Bridge
She remembered vividly SEES negative reaction to her decision to step down as the leader for the last mission last month. Mitsuru interrogated her worse than a cop, while Yukari and Akihiko were concerned about her decision. They disliked her reasonings but eventually agreed when Makoto explained the basics of leadership. After all, no one doubted him as the trump card of the team, though Hamuko believed she will one day stood equal in power with him.
Tonight, however, Hamuko watched warily at the blue-haired boy from the front side. A while ago, Strega ambushed them with insanely perfect teamwork. Takaya and Jin were an unexpected attack they had not prepared for when they first came to the bridge. Makoto, however, didn't waver at all by the attack. Instead, he rallied the team with impressive speed. The enemies disappeared after the defeat, but her instincts told her they will appear again. Makoto was still keeping his breath firm and calm when he turned to the team.
"Alright, listen up. Forget Strega for a moment and focus," Makoto coughed to bring the attention of the team. Hamuko noticed his natural aura of leadership whenever responsibility was given to him. He took command as quickly as he could the moment their rest began, "They're not our threat, not anymore. Don't panic, but don't get too worked up. Last Shadow doesn't mean anything if you lose. Every Shadow you face is technically the 'last' Shadow if you die. Tonight, you're fighting a strong one, that's all you need to know.
"Ken, Yukari, and Junpei will be the front liners against our real opponent. Arm yourself well with long-ranged weapons. After exhausting the first waves, change Ken to Koromaru and Junpei to Hamuko. Yukari must remain at the front line, but switch to Mitsuru after the second waves. Hamuko remains the tanker for good and... What?" Makoto paused when he realized there's no response. The members of the SEES stared at him with gaping mouths, which Hamuko understood completely.
"You're natural at this, aren't you?" Akihiko commented with astonishment, "Hamuko taught you that well?"
"Another natural-born leader, like her," Mitsuru glanced at her direction.
"Of course he is," Hamuko puffed her chest to Mitsuru proudly, though with slight embarrassment. She was correct on one thing though. The rest of the teammates were doubting his skills at first. Fuuka even suggested switching leadership back to her when Strega attacked. But his swift victory over the enemies immediately shut them up for good. Yet, he didn't seem proud of it, which baffled her.
"Only for one night, as we promised. Alright, SEES, any question?" No one gave a worthwhile answer. Good for him, "Then let's move."
He led them through the silent road. Hamuko watched him from behind proudly, despite him expressing his dislike at the team's awing stares. She couldn't help it. The blue-haired boy shone beautifully tonight. Deep inside, she silently thanked Shinjiro. There were battles in her mind now. All she needed was one final push to wash away any doubt. She decided, after this last operation, she will not hide her feelings anymore.
Makoto suddenly paused his tracks and shifted his gaze at her, as if realizing she was thinking about him. She hurriedly returned to her composed look. Was her face red? Did he read her expression?
Dark Hour - 3/11/2009 - Iwatodai Dorm
Pharos was the only one on the third floor at the moment, but he sensed Hamuko's fighting spirit from afar. He smiled, strolling across the hallway while sighting the full moon from the window. The place was dark, but not dark enough for him to see his destination. He abandoned Hamuko's room behind him and walked downstairs, to the men's hallway. He continued walking, guided by the moonlight, towards the door at the end of the second hallway. He felt the calling from the boy's room.
Suddenly, he stopped. A kid, heavily robed in the dark hood, was standing in front of the door, watching him. The kid shook his or her head vigorously to dismiss him.
"Are you attracted to that person too?" Pharos asked. But the kid remained quiet. There was no other way, "I see... Then I will have to come tomorrow."
Pharos blinked only a moment, but the kid was gone.
Hamuko Arisato
Dark Hour - 3/11/2009 - Moonlight Bridge
For a moment, everyone said nothing, until Junpei broke the silence, "Is it over?"
"Operation completed," Aigis added, "Or should I say, 'Mission Complete'."
"Yes, It's finally over..." Mitsuru responded.
Hamuko turned to the sky. She had landed the finishing blow against Hanged Man Arcana a moment ago. It's done. The battle was over. Dark Hour will be no more tomorrow. However, something still clutching her mind about the whole ordeal. Whether or not it was about Makoto or the battle itself, she attempted not to think much of it. The rest of the team were excitedly talking about sushi celebration. The atmosphere was eerie and cold, yet they all managed to laugh joyfully about the next day. Tonight, the Dark Hour did not terrify her one bit. She almost welcomed the silence now. This was how victory tasted like.
But when she turned to Makoto who was still watching the moon, she saw his face hardened with resolve instead. Hands never rest in his pocket, his headphone was not on his ears, and he still gripped the Evoker in his right hand. That was a sign he was wary or preparing for something. He only curved his red lips when he noticed Hamuko looking at him, which he unconsciously slotted away his Evoker, returning his hand to the headphone and equipped it.
"You don't look happy," Hamuko commented as she approached him while resting her naginata on her back, "You're thinking of something."
"Well, some questions still need an answer," He replied, "The Dark Hour, the Arcana Shadows. Those don't come by itself without reason."
"Who cares about them anymore?" Junpei interrupted him, "Dude, we won! Stop tensing up! And you were so badass! I need a private lesson from Hamuko-chan myself on how to be a 'leader'!"
"Urgh, seriously?" Yukari sighed, "No matter how many lessons you take, it can't fix your brain, Junpei."
"Aye, take that back!" Junpei clenched his fist and jerked his finger at her.
"But there's no need to train anymore, correct?" Fuuka joined the conversation, "We beat the Dark Hour! Though I must say, Yuki-san's orders were so swift, I find it hard to keep up. You are amazing."
"It is, Makoto-senpai," Ken said, "You controlled the team so well. My opinion of you has improved."
"I supposed you take notes on our leader's skill," Mitsuru praised, "Let's not stay for too long. We have a day to celebrate."
She was satisfied. Making Makoto the leader for the last mission was the correct decision all along. She was worried everyone was rather distant from Makoto for a long time despite admiring his potential and only seeing him as the powerhouse of the team; something the boy believed mattered little to him. Ken's remark about him that day began her suspicious about a wall between him and SEES themselves, and she was the bridge connecting them. She did promise everyone needed him and vice visa. What's a better way to boost their perception of him than to prove he was a competent leader and a caring friend? Tonight just proved her point. It still won't be enough to repay him for everything he had done for her, but the debt will be cleared soon. Secretly, she prayed Makoto never found out about the reason she made him the leader tonight. He will assume they were even.
They all began to walk home, granting her a solid opportunity. Rushing behind him, she pulled his shirt from the back, nearly making him tripped downwards.
"I could have died falling," He narrowed his eyes with a sarcastic tone as he regained his stance, but it faded instantly when he glanced at the rest of their friends who walked ahead of them, "You have something to say to me, alone."
"I already think of what I want to do with you," She said happily, "How about we go to your room?"
"My room?"
"I get the feeling you won't be happy for anything bothersome and far away. So I proposed we just celebrate in your room. Exchanging soundtracks, chatting, and..." But he remained silent, "...Is it too boring?"
He chuckled, not to mock her, "I love that. I'm serious."
"I'm glad we've come to an agreement. My parents used to take me on a trip when I was a kid, but truthfully I enjoyed home of all places. I remembered my parents brought me to theater one time, and I just couldn't wait to go home."
"Same goes for my parents," Makoto replied, "My dad would be like-"
It was a bit sudden when he reached for his pocket with a surprised expression.
"Makoto-kun, what's wrong?"
"Oh, nothing," He responded quickly, "I just felt my phone vibrating... Come on, let's join the rest."
[MEMORY REPROGRAMMED AT 98%]
Makoto Yuki
Early Morning - 4/11/2009 - Iwatodai Dorm
Tonight will be the last night Mitsuru will see her father. As he laid awake in his bed, constant thoughts of saving Takeharu Kirijo swamped his mind. Shuji Ikutsuki, the bastard, will use Aigis against her will to attack them, on this very night. Saving Shinjiro was unintentional, perhaps he was excused from Igor's scolding. But Mitsuru's father? That burden which left his mind after Shinjiro's survival returned to him again. He had the power to stop Ikutsuki. There was still time to fix everything, but...
"Good morning."
He instantly turned to the young voice talking near his bed and was horrified by what he saw. Today was supposed to be the day where Pharos made his last appearance in Hamuko's room, the same as he was. So why was the child in his room, after all this time?
"I'm sorry for waking you up. My name is Pharos. I believe this is our second meeting since that night," Pharos smiled. He was talking about the day he entered the dorm for the first time, which seemed to be a lifetime ago, "Don't worry, I won't appear in front of you again in this form. I just need to see the curious boy Hamuko Arisato spoke fondly of."
"Why are you here, Pharos?" He lifted his back and rest against the wall, "Is it about Hamuko?"
"Not really," He shook his head and sat on his bed, "As I said, I just want to see you, the anomaly."
"Anomaly?" Makoto tensed himself.
"Yes, you are the anomaly," He twitched his lips one side, but not wide enough for a smirk, "You... are not from this world, are you?"
"...And if I am?" He answered carefully without exposing his clenched fist.
"You are an anomaly," He repeated, "Yet I cannot imagine why you are able to escape people's suspicion for so long."
He remembered Mitsuru's investigation about him.
"But that illusion is breaking apart, yet holding itself against its will," Pharos finally spread his smile for real, "Someone is protecting you from afar, but now had become more visible than ever to protect you and your secret. A most curious person; a singularity that is changing the world to fit himself in, but subconsciously trying to break free, forcing the outside force to interfere."
'Protecting my secret?' Makoto thought as he widened his eyes, "You mean someone is trying to make sure nobody finds out about my origin?"
"Not just your origin, but hers," Pharos lowered his head gloomily, "I have recovered all my memories, yet I cannot find you anywhere in it. Curiously, I feel a strong attachment to you, as strong as Hamuko Arisato. One thing I know for certain is you and she are as close as one could be. Two sides of the same coin, with different images."
He fell silent, and Pharos said nothing too. Eventually, he began to depart, leaving an echo of his voice, "I must go now, but I believe we will meet again."
Evening - 4/11/2009 - Moonlight Bridge
"Yes, I'm on my way there. I know, tell the rest of them I'll be there after dusk. Meet you there, Mitsuru."
Takeharu Kirijo glanced at his watch as his black car approached the bridge, where the island was. Truth to be told, he scorned the island and the memories it kept. But it was over, the 12 Shadows were defeated. The traffic was jamming the road as the night approached. Still, he greeted the darkness gently, for there was no need to fear the hidden hour.
Once he reached the dorm, perhaps he will be able to see the mysterious boy occupying that place for months now. Makoto Yuki, the blue-haired boy with no record, and no background. ID and fingerprint had nothing on him until his blood type was identified. Added with the fact his background was nearly identical to the leader, Hamuko Arisato, it was a case he found himself pulled into curiously.
His daughter was rather reluctant about following his instruction at first, but he promised he will take responsibility for her action. It took a long while to do so because her daughter refused to provide information about him. He needed it for the last evidence. He wondered how he failed to connect the dots about the strange suspicion he had about the relationship between the boy and the girl. The truth shocked him so much, he had no choice but to bring it to the attention of his daughter. The SEES will be disbanded as of today, the perfect moment for him to question that boy. Why was he hiding it?
He felt a slight bump from the car when the driver suddenly braked harshly at the front.
"What happened?" Takeharu asked. Luckily, it was a small brake.
"Forgive me, sir. A kid just crossed the road all of a sudden," The driver answered with a mix of panic and relief, "Don't worry, sir, I didn't hit him or anything."
"Are you sure?" He remarked again, peeking at the front window. True enough, a kid in a dark heavy robe was crossing the street and hurriedly ran to the sidewalk. He, or she, appeared harmless, but one can never be too sure. He slid down his window and called out.
"Are you alright, kid? Did we hit you? I apologized on his behalf," He said, "Did you hurt anywhere?"
The kid refused to look at him, but he or she shook the head furiously. The kid strolled away, though he swore he had no idea where the kid disappeared afterward. Nothing left to do, he told the driver to proceed.
He turned his attention forward and... the thought of revealing his origin to everyone seemed irrational to him. Was it right for him to expose his identity? He mustn't, it was not his decision. He should confront the boy himself first.
Oddly, all motivation he had to expose Makoto Yuki's secret suddenly drained out of his body.
[MEMORY REPROGRAMMED AT 99%. BEGINNING COUNTDOWN.]
Hamuko Arisato
Night - 4/11/2009 - Iwatodai Dorm
The sushi that was laid on top of the table didn't seem to impress Makoto one bit, despite his appetite. If he was slightly cautious yesterday, he was full-blown apprehensive today. He denied it at first but began to admit he had been worried about 'something' when she drilled him for answers. When the two missing members of the team, Ikutsuki, and Aigis, were not in sight, he examined around the lounge, expecting them to be there or to begin their search for them. The only reason she didn't stop the boy from walking around the table with a distressed look was that she too felt the ominous tension.
"What's on your mind?" Akihiko asked the standing Makoto as he rested his back on the sofa.
"Oh, it's nothing," He answered instantly, "I'm just worried about Aigis. She barely left me and Hamuko-chan before."
"Try not to worry too much now. Ikutsuki knows his stuff," Mitsuru said with a hint of scold, "He helped us a lot during the operations. Have faith in him. Oh? That must be my father."
They immediately greeted the front door after listening to a car halting in front of the dorm. A while later, three adults entered the dorm with a familiar face at the center. Takeharu Kirijo was a fearsome man to the strangers, but Mitsuru's details of him proved that he was a man every child proud to have as a father. Her perception of him didn't change since Yakushima Island. He greeted Yukari with utmost gratitude, referred to the rest of the team with respect, and most of all was a slight nod to the leader of the team, herself.
To Makoto, however, his attitude changed to serious and firm. She wasn't sure if Makoto noticed it, but the boy did avert his eyes away from the man. Mitsuru eyed them both with keen looks, but said nothing, not until Mr. Kirijo announced the disbandment of SEES. Junpei was already running to the sofa, ready to plunge into the sashimi cut while the rest of them patiently rested on the sofa. After a while, Junpei began a suggestion. Yukari was against it at first, but she eventually agreed for a picture of the team. Makoto agreed to join the picture this time instead of excluding himself, and his expression looked calm, even though he was still anxious about something. Her eyes never left Makoto, which was why she was the first to see Mr. Kirijo patting on his shoulder to stop him from joining the rest after the photoshoot.
"Makoto Yuki, is it?" Mr. Kirijo spoke with a serious look as his hand gripped Makoto's shoulder gently. She saw Makoto unnerved his lips and narrowing his eyes still at the stiff-faced man. Seeing as he said nothing, Mr. Kirijo continued, "Your friends told me a lot about you and your potential. Do you mind for a chat outside? I promised I won't take long."
"As long as it's before midnight," Makoto answered coldly with a slight bow. Obviously, Makoto disliked the idea.
"Hold on, there," Hamuko approached them with a quick bow to Mr. Kirijo, "Let him have a rest today. He earned it. Surely it can't be too important?"
"Ah, Arisato," He spread his lips to the side, but quickly return to his usual stern look, "Forgive me, it's nothing serious. We will return shortly if we keep our conversation..." He peeked at Makoto, "...brief and short."
"Hamuko-chan, it's okay. I'm sure it's nothing," Makoto smiled at her, "Go on, now. Or you'll lose your share."
They both left for the door, though something cracked slightly in her heart as she watched the two of them disappeared to the outside.
Makoto Yuki
"Makoto Yuki, there's something I need to ask you," Takeharu spoke as soon as they were ten feet away from the front door. The man's face was deadly serious, sending goosebump down his veins. This event never occurred in his world. Surely, what's the worse that could happen? He thought to himself as he rested both hands in his pocket with his headphone still on, waiting for the next line.
"Has my daughter said anything about you?" He began, then appeared satisfied as he relaxed his stance, "Surely, you do. Your voided past remained a mystery to us at Kirijo. A boy with an identical past with the girl that arrived at the same time at the same place? Coincidence, maybe, but surely there must be an answer. It's our job to be throughout with everything." Takeharu Kirijo peeked at the bright curtain at the side of the dorm, where shadows of his teammates were swirling together like dancers.
"You assisted the team a lot, which is why I trusted my daughter's good judgment when she said you wouldn't harm the team. To commemorate the disband of SEES, I suggest you start speaking the truth," He crossed his arms together.
"What truth?" He asked, beginning to stand uncomfortably. 'Which one' was the better question. But there's no way he could say it.
"Your origin," He spoke but began to revise his meaning, "Or perhaps you're still pretending? Well, if you truly wanted to hide your past, it will be logical to forge your own background. Yet the only thing you did was copied Hamuko Arisato's past. Are you trying to prove something to her, waiting for her to react?"
"My similar background with her is a coincidence, nothing else," Makoto said.
Takeharu creased his forehead with a sudden disapproval expression. He exhaled loudly before reaching for his cigarette in his coat pocket but changed his mind when he found no lighter.
"Last month, I asked my daughter to send your school information to me. During the typhoon season, I had my daughter sneaked into your room and took a drop of your saliva," He revealed, "Then, I had Mitsuru take the blood sample the school collected from the hospital Arisato was born."
Makoto let out a small gasp before Takeharu immediately added, "I made that decision, so spare my daughter the blame. The responsibility lies on me. She didn't approve of this at first, and I told her to forget everything the moment I had the DNA test began."
DNA test?
"Your DNA test," The one-eyed man said. Makoto's legs had wobbled slightly as he continued, "Every human had a strain of heritage in their blood... We can find the ancestor of everyone on the island in Kirijo Group..."
Oh no. It can't be...
"...And the test proved that you and Hamuko Arisato have nearly identical DNA sequence."
Makoto felt his breath paused as he took a step backward. Takeharu didn't let it slight. There's no running away now. The whole truth will be exposed. Everything.
"Yuki, Hamuko Arisato might be your relative-"
[MEMORY REPROGRAMMED COMPLETE. ANOMALY DETECTED AND IDENTIFIED.]
"Guh!" He clenched his head in pain as he fell to his knees. He felt something gripping his mind harshly. All his memories flashed through him in instant, like watching a series that was compressed into a short film. What the hell happened to him? Takeharu crouched in front of him and pat his back warily.
"Hey, you okay? What's wrong?"
"No, nothing," He didn't even peek at the man's face as the memories faded, "I'm fine." He hated how he appeared currently, but there was no need to reveal it as he stood himself up. "I'm sorry. I didn't catch the last part."
"So, as I was saying," Takeharu continued, "The test proved that your blood matched with no one on the island. You are not from this place, and certainly no kinship with the girl. All the statements you filled in your documents are false."
...Huh?
"Wait, I thought you said..." Makoto let his words died as he widened his eyes in shock. How did his words change? He swore he mentioned something about Hamuko being his relative? Did what happen earlier had something to do with it? "Kirijo-san, you're saying me and she is not blood related, correct?"
"I mean exactly what I said. How did you come to that conclusion?"
Whatever it was, their secret was saved. He let out a loud exhale sound, making Takeharu raised his eyebrows in puzzlement.
"Why are you so relieved? It still doesn't explain your reason for matching Arisato's past," Takeharu commented, forcing him to return to his usual expression, "So, the answer."
Makoto tried to avoid the old man's stares away. Perhaps it was the first time, at the corner of his eyes, he finally saw one small figure in a dark robe watching them from across the street. But there was an impression he seen that kid before. The small figure placed one index finger into the robe hiding his or her lips. The kid was muttering something. Takeharu didn't seem to notice his averting eyes, however.
"Someone is protecting you from afar, but now had become more visible than ever to protect you and your secret. A most curious person; a singularity that is changing the world to fit himself in, but subconsciously trying to break free, forcing the outside force to interfere."
Pharos's words rang in his head as he glanced at the kid again. Could that kid be...?
"I..." Makoto spoke, trying to scramble words in his head. No, there's no need to panic. Calm. Be utterly calm. The world order will protect you. Calm. Hamuko won't find out about his mystery. He exhaled slightly, and he was composed again.
"I am someone very important to Hamuko," He answered confidently, "We may be strangers, but there's a stronger bond that connects us than blood and personas. We were bound by it, and until the end of our lives, we will never be divided, not in mind, not in our psyche."
Takeharu stared at him with a stone face and said nothing, which Makoto took the time to glimpse at the street, but the kid was no more. Hurrying his attention back to Mitsuru's father, he noticed the weak smile on his face.
"An acceptable answer," He said, "I'm not sure why, but I feel like I can trust you. Whatever your relationship with that girl, I pray for your happiness. Still, we need to continue this tomorrow, with Mitsuru, if it's fine with you. Hey, why do you look so down right now?"
There will be no tomorrow for him. Why did the choice always had to be so painstakingly difficult regarding the life he could save, but must ignore? Why was the resolve he had not strong enough for it? He will regret this.
"Kirijo-san, be wary of Ikutsuki-san tonight-"
His words were caught in his throat. The Contact Card in his pocket was vibrating. His phone was making some static noise loud enough for Takeharu Kirijo to hear. The man shifted his one eye towards his trousers.
"Someone call you?"
"Ah, yes," Makoto took out his phone and saw the glimmering white light on the screen. He turned to Takeharu Kirijo and bowed, "Please excuse me. Tell the rest I'll join them soon."
His legs leaped to the other side of the street, as far as he could.
Hamuko Arisato
"Father, you took a while," Mitsuru addressed upon noticing her father returning from their conversation. Hamuko searched around and saw Makoto didn't follow him.
"Sorry. By the way, that boy took off somewhere, but he said he'll be back," Mr. Kirijo answered.
"Where did he go?" Hamuko asked.
"Never stated," He replied, then glanced at his watch, "It's late..."
"Meh, his loss," Junpei said joyfully as he gulped down another sushi, "Hmmm... Munch... Munch... I whil popaby gove he som susiii- *cough*!"
"Don't talk while eating. You're acting like a kid," Ken scolded, ironically since he was a child too. Ken himself took only a little of his dish but halted after eating half the plate.
Junpei was still filling his plate when the rest of them had pushed theirs away with burps. Once in a while, she peeked at the door, but Makoto still failed to show himself. Aigis and Ikutsuki, too, remained out of contact. A sense of dread gripped her. What could happen to them? Even Junpei had begun asking the presence of Aigis and Ikutsuki, while Mitsuru asked about Makoto's business.
Then, the clock struck midnight, and she realized Makoto's anxiety was on point.
Makoto Yuki
Late Night - Street
He had walked for quite a while from the dorm. He twisted his head to the side behind him but saw no one. He still felt the vibration in his pocket as he flipped open his phone. It was the same kind of reaction he heard before. Previously, the only noises he heard reacting were from Fuuka's speaker, but now it was growing in versatility. The noise was harrowingly eerie at first, but it breezed itself when he realized he had to place it next to his ear.
"*bzzz* So, I'm talking to you again, Izanagi. You see, we got only a week left before Marie's soul be sacrificed for good. Is there no other way to help her? I saw her, in my dream, but she was quiet. I need to help her, Izanagi; before it's too late. Give me your answer, tell me the truth. What sin is she talking about?"
Wasn't that Yu Narukami's voice, one of the men of prophecy? Did he perhaps use another Contact Card in his world?
"By the way, I'm going to Hitoshi's counseling session again. Perhaps that will open up our communication together. I will see her again, and when I do, I don't think I will hold back from taking her, even against the black horseman. When that time comes, I only ask that you lend me your full strength. You were there for me in everything. So... that's it I guess. Shadow Operative is still looking for Sho Minazuki. Tatsuya-san won't be coming with us, unfortunately. There's a business he had to attend beforehand."
The noise dimmed away to silence. He was convinced now. Like the time where he listened to Tatsuya's word, he was eavesdropping a conversation from his original world. Could Yu Narukami be listening to the same thing too? The closer he was to the battle with Nyx, the oftener he received a reminder of his status in this world. And that name, Sho Minazuki; Who was he? He glanced at the time on his phone when he realized there was no more conversation to squeeze out. It was close to midnight. It's time to make his decision. Should he allowed things to happen? The answer was obvious. But he had not the strength for it, not at first.
Finally, he realized the mysterious kid was finally in-sight from the corner of his eyes. The kid was watching him beneath the street light, but this time, he swore the pair of eyes made contact with him. The kid was only a few feet away, after all.
"Hey, wait up!"
He bolted after the kid without a second thought when the kid decided to dash.
Hamuko Arisato
Dark Hour - Iwatodai Dorm
"Everyone geared up?" Mitsuru asked. The bell tolling could still be heard noisily from the distance. Hamuko examined everyone and saw that they were ready. Still...
"Hold it, Makoto is not here yet," Hamuko paused them. The team began to search around, but their impatience was obvious.
"We have no time to waste on him," Akihiko said firmly, "We need to find Ikutsuki and Aigis fast. Make way, Mitsuru."
Hamuko turned around and saw no one. Hopefully, he will join them soon. For some reason, she was afraid. There was an impending doom approaching them tonight, but she couldn't explain how she knew it.
Makoto Yuki
Dark Hour - Moonlight Bridge
He lost all sense of time as he chased after the kid all the way to the bridge, the place where they fought Hanged Man Arcana yesterday. By the time he paused for a break, the kid had disappeared out of sight, leaving nothing but chill and eeriness. The kid must be the one Pharos mention, there's no mistaking it, a native to this world. Now that he lost the kid, he affirmed his suspicion about the kid being the 'odd' event the Velvet Room warned him about. He peeked at his feet and saw it stood stationary. The adrenaline rushing through him earlier drained his mental strength. There's no need to chase the child. The stranger will always watch him from afar, anyway.
But when he sensed an odd presence from above, he assumed it to be a Shadow and began his battle stance. Leaving his Evoker in the dorm was a mistake too late to regret. But he observed carefully the figure standing at one of the metal pillars supporting the bridge, and it was that kid again.
"Who are you?" Makoto shouted, loud enough for everyone on the bridge to hear. The kid in a dark robe watched the peak of the Tartarus tower attentively.
"Why are you watching me?" Makoto asked again, "Are you a part of me I don't know? Or are you native to this world, finding my presence anonymous? A guardian, or a messenger?"
"A wanderer."
The feminine's barely audible voice responded immediately after he finished his sentence. "You said you're a wanderer?" He continued, stalling the conversation longer, "Does that mean you know who I am?"
The little girl said nothing, she slowly motioned her robe to face him. A pair of cobalt blue eyes stared at him. She couldn't be more than ten, at least younger than Pharos and Ken. The most significant part about her was she had the same presence as the 'Hamuko' he saw in his dream.
"You are essential to this reality," She said with a hollowed expression, "What keeps you from reaching this world? It has been waiting for you for so long. That girl cannot fulfill her destiny without you."
"The girl? Who are you-" Makoto choked on his words. His mind was filled with a sudden sense of betrayal and anguish. This was Hamuko's feeling. He could sense her searching for him amidst the fear of capture.
"The old man will die," The girl said, "He dug too deep into your past, and will suffer the consequence as any others."
A man? Was she talking about Mitsuru's father? Then... he pondered for a while and lost in his thoughts.
"Are you saying that Takeharu Kirijo will die because he knows too much about me?"
He glanced at above, but the girl was gone.
Hamuko Arisato
Dark Hour - Observatory Rooftop
"What the hell is this?!"
Hamuko woke up to the scream of Junpei, only to see her and her entire friends hung on the tall marble crosses. She was somewhere at Tartarus outdoor with a large round platform, where moonlight shined upon them and the front side of the platform had no fence to stop them from looking downward, all the way to the bottom of the tower. As she examined around the place, her eyes finally fixed on Ikutsuki, who was watching them with ecstasy and excitement. Aigis, who was still under the mercy of his remote, was holding Takeharu Kirijo hostage. The chairman was dangling the gun in his hand.
Memories resurfaced in her mind. Ikutsuki had betrayed them. The 12 Shadows were not to be killed. They were nothing but puppets to Ikutsuki's scheme. Rage boiled in her. Makoto was right this whole time. Ikutsuki was not to be trusted. Then again, where was he?
"Is it just as it appears. They are to be sacrifices, harbingers of the Fall," Ikutsuki answered Takeharu's bafflement, "The arrangements are complete; the prophecy shall be fulfilled. A shame, we're short one more sacrifice. Damn it, where is that blue-haired boy? Did he run with his tail between his legs? No matter, this is more than enough."
Takeharu Kirijo, as a hostage, refused to agree to Ikutsuki's madness. The madman was impatient with the process. He made the major decision; to execute Mr. Kirijo. Mitsuru was closed to wailing, but thankfully, Aigis hesitated. It enraged the chairman more than enough.
"Ten years!" Ikutsuki screamed as he took his aim with his gun, "I wasted ten long years!"
Then, from behind them, she heard a scream.
"Aigis, snap out of it!"
A figure jumped so fast across her eyes till she saw a blur at first. But when she realized he had blue hair, the tension left her body for a moment. Makoto locked Aigis with his limbs from behind and pinned her wrists down. The situation shifted so suddenly, that both Takeharu and Ikutsuki stood stunned like a doll.
"Kirijo-san, now!" Makoto screamed.
"You... How dare you disrupt the offering?!" Ikutsuki pointed the gun at Makoto. But with equal speed, Takeharu whipped out his hidden gun and aimed at the chairman. With almost simultaneous sounds, both triggers were pulled.
Bang!
Makoto Yuki
He ran as fast as he could, leaving his Evoker at the dorm, to the spot where the sacrifices took place. Without his persona, he would be defenseless. But he was running out of time. Time. Time delivered us to the same end. The vibration of the Contact Card in his pocket was getting stronger the closer he was to his destination.
"But that illusion is breaking apart, yet holding itself against its will."
Pharos's words rang in his mind as he jumped at the android. When he pinned Aigis down, he thought for a moment, he could change fate. The world was an opportunity for him, even if it was an illusion. However, if it was an illusion, why does it matter if he saved anyone? What's the point of Shinjiro's survival if he remained dead in his world?
The moment they both went down, he realized it wasn't to save anyone. Hamuko was correct in one thing. He mustn't shoulder everything. Takeharu Kirijo clenched his chest before he fell dropped dead for good. Bloodstain was visible at Ikutsuki right ribs, but while he fell to his knees, he was still breathing and pointing the barrel at him. His hands were full pinning on Aigis. He couldn't run.
"You ignorant fool! Release Aigis to me!" Ikutsuki screamed.
"...You see, we got only a week left before Marie's soul be sacrificed for good. Is there no other way to help her? I saw her, in my dream, but she was quiet. I need to help her, Izanagi; before it's too late. Give me your answer, tell me the truth..."
Strange. Yu's voice also rang in his head. Truth... Yes, the truth was simple. He wanted to protect Hamuko. He wanted the future where she could be happy. He wanted this world to have a chance. And the ultimate truth was he believed this world was his 'chance'. How much he wished he could ask Igor to wipe clean his memories now, instead of constantly feeling powerless every time he forsook the 'chance' that arrived. Shinjiro, Takeharu Kirijo, Chidori; all of them could live. All he had to do was reveal the whole truth to them and abandoned his world forever. All he needed was Hamuko to be spare of his pain.
If he could save the girl from Nyx, he would do it in a heartbeat. But will it work? Was the reason why he couldn't save Takeharu Kirijo was because the man was trying to unveil his past? He needed the strength to accept it.
"...Perhaps that will open up our communication together. I will see her again, and when I do, I don't think I will hold back from taking her, even against the black horseman. When that time comes, I only ask that you lend me your full strength. You were there for me in everything. ..."
Yu's voice rang out in his head again. Yes, he already knew the answer long, long ago. There's no need to question himself. The strength of his will must overcome the emotion hailing his heart like a thunderstorm. His heart was a massive typhoon, battling over his mind to decide his action. He must let Hamuko finished what he once completed, and welcomed death like an old friend.
...Typhoon? The strange dream he had that day begun to flood through him. He thought the school canceled the cultural festival?
"You were there, weren't you? At the Cultural Festival?"
The voice he recalled in his head masked the sound of Ikutsuki's gunshot in reality. The last vision he saw in the real world was the moonlight. In his mind, darkness shrouded him. Amidst the neverending blackness, a bright door with a shape of Arcana Card emerged in front of him. The Contact Card was trying to tell him something. Something lacking in his memory. Where? Where's the connection? The voice?
"When that time comes, I only ask that you lend me your full strength. You were there for me in everything. ..."
"You were there, weren't you? At the Cultural Festival?"
The door with the shape of Arcana Card finally smoothened, allowing him to open it in his mind. He remembered now. It was the same voice.
"What keeps you from reaching this world? It has been waiting for you for so long..."
Hamuko Arisato
She stared in horror at the fallen Makoto, who closed his eyes and remained unmoved. His shoulder was bleeding. Her mind was going ablaze, as though she could feel the pain he experienced. She wanted to scream, but the overwhelming emotions overcome her.
"Hah... Finally..." Ikutsuki gasped for air before turning to Aigis, "Aigis, now!"
But Aigis, still lying on the ground after freeing herself from Makoto, remained frozen. Her eyes were full of terror despite being a machine.
"M-Makoto..." Aigis stuttered, shivering at the sight of her own hands.
"Aigis, execute them!" Ikutsuki reached for something in his pocket. However, Aigis -finally recovering herself- jumped to her feet, and aimed her fingers at the team. After unloading a few rounds, the metals binding them to the cross shattered apart by the bullets, allowing them to break free. Desperate, Ikutsuki revealed a remote control, but before he could control Aigis, Koromaru leaped for the device, removing Aigis from the Chairman's control for good. Rubbing her wrists gently, Hamuko ran straight for the fallen boy.
"I was so close..." She heard Ikutsuki said, then she heard him no more. In her arms was Makoto with a bleeding left shoulder. The memories of Shinjiro filled her mind. If she loses him, there will be nothing left. It was her honest thought at the moment. She still hasn't conveyed her feelings to him yet. Don't let this be her greatest regret.
"Makoto-kun, look at me," She whispered. No, she pleaded as she gripped the boy's bleeding shoulder, "Not again, not again... Don't leave me, please... I can't lose you..."
"Hamuko-chan, calm down," Fuuka kneed at Makoto's head and examined him, then at her, "He's not dead. It hit his shoulder, but he's breathing. He simply passes out due to shock."
"R-Really?" Hamuko spoke, but her voice was croaked. The tension left her body as she exhaled when Fuuka nodded.
"I can't say the same for him," Yukari emerged from behind her as she glanced at one direction. Hamuko turned around and saw Mitsuru weeping over her father's body. Akihiko, Ken, Koromaru, and Junpei, stood over them with sympathy. Of course, Takeharu Kirijo was the true victim tonight. Mitsuru was the one who needed comfort.
"Please go to Mitsuru-san. I'll handle him," She said as she undid her ponytail ribbon, letting it lose and used it to wrap it around his left arms, Yukari and Fuuka nodded before they proceeded to where the fallen Kirijo was. She let out a loud grunt when she was finally alone with him.
"You always know how to make me worry about you, silly..." She muttered, then secretly laughed at herself, "What am I kidding? I'm also the same way."
As she examined his body, she noticed in his right pocket was a glimmering light. She assumed it was his phone at first. But when she took out the object inside, she recognized it well. She still remembered the Arcana styled card she saw inside Makoto's desk. It was blinking with dim light. What secret did this card possess?
She turned around to her teammates surrounding Mitsuru and her father. This card was important to him. Stealthily, she slid the card into her pocket.
Makoto Yuki
6/11/2009 - Velvet Room
Igor and Theodore were watching him like prey, but he retaliated by returning the glare with slight anger, along with a strong attempt of intimidation by leaning his shoulder closer to them in his seat. Whatever reason they had about their action, he would never accept this path without a proper answer. Theodore was mannerly calming this time, unlike his previous visit.
"It seems your attempt at altering the past failed," Igor spoke, "While the person you had saved previously had survived due to miraculous circumstances, some death is predestined. Your action will greatly affect the link between you and the old world. That is not the 'correct' answer."
"Or is it because he knew about me? Is that's why I can't save him?"
Makoto leaped from his seat and slammed both hands on Igor's table, later gripping the blanket of the table so hard, the stacked cards nearly tumbled down.
"You lied to me," Makoto said with the most frustrated tone he could muster at the moment, "You lied to me about this world."
He heard Theodore's exhalation at the side, with Igor finally losing the curve of his lips. Makoto released his hands from Igor's table and returned to his seat with a deep breath.
"Before I left my homeworld, Father Time told me to change nothing of the events that transpired in this world, because otherwise it will -how did he phase it- 'branch' out from my timeline, diverging it further, risking my path to home. I believe I remembered it well," Makoto slid his hands into his pocket as continued. Strange, where was that card? "But that was a lie, isn't it? You don't want me to change anything because there's something you need from me."
Igor rested his back to his seat as he took a small, audible sigh.
"You are correct, Minato-sama. We had to deceive you. We apologize for it."
Curiosity was the only thing suppressing his anger presently, "I don't need an apology. Explain. Don't lie to me. Tell me the truth, and I will tell you mines."
The longed-nose man reached for his tarot card and began to shuffle it.
"What do you perceive of this world?" Igor asked.
"Father Time said I'll lose my connection to my world if I change the 'past', but the more 'change' I made from my old world, the more I realized this world is getting closer to mine. The Contact Card was my main suspicion. Tatsuya's voice would never be able to reach me if my world is getting further from this world. Ever since Shinjiro survived his death last month, things have been getting bizarre for me. I can almost hear the Contact Card occasionally, louder each time. Also, back when I was bedridden with cold during the Cultural Festival..."
Makoto finally revealed the dream he had, where he met 'Hamuko' with a male voice before he was sent to the Tartarus and saw Hamuko there, claiming he was at the festival.
"And the strangest part of it all is I recognized the 'male' voice the Hamuko in my dream used," Yes, he remembered now, "Igor, the voice in that dream of mine... was Yu Narukami's voice. Not exactly him, but if it was his voice, why is it there in my dream when I barely know the guy? What's my connection to all of it, and this world? I need my answers."
Igor finally finished his shuffle and began to press a single card on the table; Moon Arcana, symbolized hidden fear, creativity, and subconscious ability to be aware of things that were hidden, or things unknown. Igor began.
"I can give you limited answers. Are you prepare for it?"
"Yes, absolutely yes."
"As you will. This world is an alternate reality, your alternate reality. Not in a sense of the alternate timeline, but of a dream world."
"Sorry?" Makoto lost him for a moment.
"It means this reality does not exist in the 'real' world. It exists only in the Sea of Soul, linked to your subconsciousness, a world based on your memories."
Makoto leaned closer with awestruck expression.
"This... 'world' was created based on my memories?" Makoto said, "Hold on, everything in this 'world', especially Hamuko, feels real."
"As I said, this is an alternate reality. This world is as real as death and Shadow you have faced. If you die here, you may die for real. Also, anyone can travel to this world, but only in the form of soul, not their physical body. But the fact won't change, it exists because of you."
"Wait, you're saying I'm dreaming... Where is my real body currently?"
"You are currently sleeping in the depth of Abyss of Time, guarded by my other attendants."
"I assumed that's why they can't find my relation to Hamuko?" Makoto revealed his conversation with Mitsuru's father, "He said I have no blood ties to Hamuko Arisato after I heard he reaffirmed the sibling's relationship between Hamuko and I. What have you done to me? Something is controlling this 'world', and I hope it's not you."
"I can navigate you and the girl, but I'm not the one controlling it. Though, I admit I am part of the anomalies that prevent your secret from being discovered."
He saw Theodore bit his lips when Makoto stood up. Too many questions to ask, and he had no idea which answers he needed first.
"And why is this world exist in the first place? Why is it based on my memories?" Makoto asked, but shook his head, "No. What I should probably ask is; Why am I sent to this world? Why am I not allow to change the past of this world?"
"There is a reason enough to win the prophecy. I do not lie this time, Minato-sama. However, I cannot provide anymore answer. Please, complete the Universe, and I will reveal everything, bare to the bone."
Makoto found himself chuckling sarcastically at Igor's statement, "Is that a deal?" Makoto finally left his seat and turned away to the door, but gave one last look at the master of the room, "I accept it for one more question; If I save Chidori, the member of Strega, without risking my identity, what will be the consequence of my action?"
"The convergence of your past will attempt to prevent you from saving Chidori," Igor said, then added as though to reaffirm Makoto's suspicion, "But, it may be possible to save her."
He nodded and took a step into reality, leaving both Igor and Theodore alone. Theodore, after remaining silent for the entire conversation, voiced out with suppressed dismay.
"Master Igor, is this fine?" Theodore asked as he faced him, "You're allowing him to do as he pleases now. Are we done with this world? Is there no need to monitor his memories, or her?"
"We will continue to observe him until he achieves Universe Arcana," Igor answered with a hint of satisfaction, "Cultural Festival... Theodore, mark that date down."
Hamuko Arisato
Evening - 6/11/2009 - Tatsumi Memorial Hospital
Packing Makoto's bento in her bag, Hamuko strolled through the hallway together with Junpei, who was equally nervous to meet Chidori. Both Makoto and Chidori's rooms were on the same floor, but Hamuko's destination was a bit further away than Junpei. It's the second day after Makoto was administered to the ward, though the doctors were extremely surprised at the rate of his rapid recovery. He should be awake by now, though yesterday he slept until nightfall.
In a way, she considered it a blessing he didn't see the chaotic event that transpired in Kirijo Group since the death of their CEO. Mitsuru was busy mourning her beloved father, while the goal of SEES remained unclear with the Dark Hour remained. One thing some of her teammates agreed upon, including herself, was Makoto's suspicion of Ikutsuki was correct all along. Yukari was rather conflicted in whether to apologize for not seeing it sooner, or furious at herself for failing to see the deception of the fake video of her father.
After separating herself from Junpei, she made her way to Makoto's room and was surprised to see the blue-haired boy still sleeping on his bed in his hospital gown with a peaceful look, bandages covered his left shoulder along with some needles injected into his right arm's vein. She sat next to the window, on Makoto's left side, to examine the bandage with closer inspection. No trace of blood left. It was rather miraculous he survived with such a deep wound. Maybe life still gave her a chance to extend this relationship she had with him.
"Still sleeping? Wake up, I've made some bento for you," Hamuko began but realized she was just monologuing to herself, "The dorm is the same as ever, except the absence of Mitsuru, and of course you. Junpei is visiting Chidori again today, so I tagged along and came by. Aigis can't come, Mitsuru said she was still being repaired," She eventually decided to tug his arms when she realized the silliness of her action, "You really won't wake up? Fine, rest some more."
The silence made her realized there's no point in waking him any further. Once he fell asleep, not even an earthquake will budge him. Only the wind's howl was heard from the slightly open window currently, Hamuko took this time to do what she wanted to do, a moment of solitary with him. Makoto's face was pale white, his usual look that often doubted others about his health. Yet she wanted to continue gazing at the face. She should have realized it sooner. Seeing as he refused to awake, she began to caress his hands like handling a fragile glass.
"Makoto-kun..." She lifted the man's hand and held it with both hands against her face, closing her eyes to value this moment, "You're the one who's always been in my mind."
"Your mind?"
"Ekk!" Hamuko pushed his hands away in panic when she heard the voice responding to her. Makoto slowly opened his eyes and watched her with a curious gaze, then at the hand she held earlier. She needed no mirror to see redness burned her face, "S-Stop frighting me! You should have said you're awake!"
"I am, but I'm too burned out to lift my head," Makoto answered, using both arms to pull his back upward against the head pillow. This time, he was observing her intensely, studying her before once again lifting his hand that she held earlier.
"I-I was just testing your temperature," Hamuko answered. They both locked eyes, but Hamuko couldn't stand looking at him for too long without feeling embarrassed. Fortunately, he didn't pursue the things she said about being in her mind, as though he knew she will be unable to provide answers. The paused in the conversation allowed Hamuko to switch the conversation instantly, where she narrated all the events in the past two days. Makoto said nothing, but she sensed guilt building in him.
"I'm sorry for not believing you about Ikutsuki-san. You may not be able to save Mitsuru's father, but you saved us," Hamuko comforted him, "We are grateful to you."
"No. I didn't save you," Makoto denied, gripping his blanket tightly, "I didn't save anyone. Aigis won't be able to harm any of you anyway. Not only I failed to save Mitsuru's father, I even got myself hurt like an idiot. I... I might be the reason for his death."
"No, that's not true. You can't save everyone," Hamuko replied, "You did what you could-"
"But I can! I can save him! I just didn't do it!"
Hamuko nudged away from him when Makoto suddenly raised his voice. Frustration, anger, and a sense of powerless filled him. Makoto clenched his head with both hands, as though he wanted to rip his hair out.
"I realized now. I didn't save Shinjiro. You did, Hamuko-chan, you're the one who saved him. I'm powerless from the start. If you could see what the future holds, and you did nothing to stop it, it happened because you don't try hard enough. Those deaths happened because of me. I knew it will happen... But I...!"
"Makoto-kun, enough already," Hamuko climbed his bed and rested one knee on the cushion, gently gripped both of his hands from his head, "Even if you knew, you can't change it. You did what you knew was best."
He still wouldn't remove his hands and resisted her, "And how could you possibly know that?! Mitsuru's father is dead, all because I think I can change fate! Deep inside, I want to, yet I don't think I have that right! I... I have no right to be with our teammates, or with you. I'm just a nobody..."
She put as much force as she could to rip his hands from his head and, with a quick hand, swung her palm at his cheek.
Slap!
...Makoto stopped his ranting and stared at her with widened eyes. A bit of redness glowed on his left cheek. Oddly, it hurt her more than she thought, and it was not her hand. She didn't care if he hated her on the spot. Makoto's face was filled with so much agony, that watching the sight made she wanted to rip her heart out in pain.
He still stared at her with those eyes and remained silent. Gently, she took one of his hands and rested it on her cheek.
"I warned you not to say that again. You're not a nobody, not to me..." She withheld her grief this time with a greater will, gripping his hand with stronger force, "You have the right to feel happy, or helping anyone. I know, because I feel your pain. And I want you to see me the same way as I see you, a shoulder to cry, a comfort in the dark time. You help me so much, so how can you not let me help you?"
Makoto finally tilted his head and lifted his other hands on her other cheek.
"Hamuko, if I leave you one day, will you remember me, forever?"
"You already know the answer, Makoto."
Strange, they both dropped the honorific simultaneously. He smiled weakly, and she let him rested his hands on her cheeks for a while. Will her feelings reached him, she wondered? Because she wanted to confess everything. She wanted to be with him.
It was then, she saw the most miraculous thing from Makoto, ever. Her mouth was left agape in surprise, and she rubbed her eyes a few times as if she didn't believe the image she just witnessed. It was the first time for her.
"Makoto... kun, you're crying..."
Makoto Yuki
Evening - 6/11/2009 - Tatsumi Memorial Hospital
Crash!
Universe Arcana Social Link:
Rank 7
"Huh?" He released his hands from Hamuko and wiped his cheeks. She was telling the truth. He thought he was stronger than this, "What's going on? My tears... won't stop."
Suddenly, he felt a warm embrace on her chest, arms wrapped around his head, and a few lullabied words over his head.
"It's alright. Just cry your heart out. No one is here, just us."
His tears failed to stop falling. Gripping her sleeves, he wept as much as he could in her embrace. All the burden, all the pain, he let it all out. It made him comfortably happy like a needle was finally pulled out from his chest. He supposed it was true you know yourself better than anyone.
He released his hands and pushed Hamuko away. He almost chuckled at seeing Hamuko's red eyes, knowing she probably shed a few tears, even a little. Hamuko returned to her chair next to his bed and her face was oddly redder than her eyes.
"S-Sorry," She said.
"For what?" Makoto asked as he rested his head on the pillow and wiped clean his face. Slowly, she placed her fingers on the cheek where he was slapped earlier. It ached.
"For doing that. I must have hit you hard," She said, then added in panic when she saw his serious gaze, "Did I hit too hard? I-If you want a payback..."
"Pfff... Haha!" He couldn't stop himself from laughing at her answer. This was the first time he had a genuine laugh ever since coming to this world. Hamuko pulled her fingers away in confusion, but then began to narrow her eyebrows furiously.
"I'm serious!"
"I know, I know. Haha! I'm just... glad you did that. It makes you look... 'real' to me. No, you are real, it's all that matters."
He observed Hamuko's blushing cheek as much as he could. The girl truly was beautiful in his eyes. When her time comes, he needed to embrace her eventual demise as well.
"Oh, right," Hamuko suddenly remembered something and began to search her bag. She took out a familiar-looking card and handed it to him, "I keep it for your sake. I know it's important to you."
He widened his eyes in shock at the half-transparent card in her hand. As he held it high at the window, the sunlight glimmered through the card and at the 'CONTACT' word. It was another mystery he wished to solve.
"Did anything happened when you're guarding it?" He asked.
"I don't think so," Hamuko answered, "What is that card, anyway? I asked Igor about it, but he won't answer me."
"They won't answer to anything," He said irritatedly as he began to shuffle his limbs, making his shoulder twitched in pain, and Hamuko noticed it before he even showed it.
"Where do you want to go?" Hamuko pushed his shoulder to the bed when he tried to raise his torso.
"I think I rested enough. I want to see what's Chidori and Junpei are up too."
"Have some food first."
"Maybe later. I need to see the girl Junpei fond of."
Hamuko nodded reluctantly, "Do you need a walking stick?"
Hamuko Arisato
Tatsumi Memorial Hospital
"Don't come here anymore!"
Supporting Makoto by the arm, Hamuko paused her tracks when she heard a girl's voice screaming from Chidori's room. She turned to Makoto, and he did the same. Junpei's pleading voice was heard afterward, then only a beeping sound of the monitor was heard.
"Wasn't that..." Hamuko spoke, but her word was cut short by the door opening, revealing Junpei who was clearly distressed, unlike anything she had seen from him. The man was fidgeting his hat attentively, completely unaware of them at first. He nearly jumped when he saw them both in the lonely hallway.
"Woah, dude! W-What are you doing here? Makoto, are you fine?" Junpei said in a panic, fronting away from Chidori's room.
"Is there a problem with Chidori-san?" Hamuko asked concernedly.
"...No, it ain't a problem," Junpei answered with a weak attempt of lies, "It's okay, I... uh... Nevermind, I'm going home."
Junpei was barely out of sight when Makoto reached for the handle of Chidori's room.
"Makoto-kun, do you have a business in there-"
Makoto ignored her and proceeded to barge inside. Their first view was the member of Strega watching the plant at the side of her bed with utmost attentiveness. She was displeased with the sudden intrusion.
"I told you not to come here anymore-!" Chidori prepared to scream at the door but choked her words when she saw the identity of the newcomers. She composed herself and returned her attention to her beloved flowers.
"Sorry for the sudden visit," She heard Makoto's apology as she closed the door behind them. She seldom met the girl herself.
"Me too, Chidori-san," Hamuko gave a slight bow as she approached the bed. The girl said nothing.
"Chidori-san," Makoto didn't bother seating himself when he spoke, "Do you love Junpei?"
Hamuko's jaw dropped, while Chidori finally turned to Makoto with raised eyebrows. Again, she quickly avoided his gaze and returned to the flowers, but Makoto wasn't done.
"I promised you, Chidori-san," Makoto leaned forward as he made the vow, "I will save you."
"Makoto-kun, what do you mean by that?" Hamuko asked as he hurriedly turned away to the door, "Makoto-kun, wait up!"
Confusion filled her mind, but Makoto's face was firmed with determination. As they left the room, he appeared to be in deep thoughts, reconsidering something.
"Flowers, huh? I see," He turned to her, "Hamuko-chan, I'm going to need your help this time."
Makoto Yuki
Morning - 9/11/2009 - Gekkoukan High
It's been three days. The plan will succeed. Just a few more weeks before Chidori's death, but he will make sure he'll prevent it. Hamuko agreed to follow his little plan without question, though once in a while, she expressed concern about it. No, she felt it. She knew Chidori will die. How did she know? The answer was him.
As they sat waiting in the classroom for Ms. Toriumi, he turned to the girl next to him and caught Hamuko repeating his action. With each rank he climbed through the social link, he realized the 'telepathy' they had together was getting immensely stronger. Yesterday, when they ate at Wild Duck Burger, twice he picked up the pepper for Hamuko before she could even ask for it. When they went to the flower shop, she picked the flowers that he found attractive for Chidori before he even suggested it. Even stranger, when Mitsuru asked for Hamuko's whereabout, he correctly guessed she was currently talking to Junpei. They're losing words between them, and he could sense Hamuko's growing curiosity regarding it. And yet, she seemed to enjoy the connection.
It worried him. Perhaps deep inside, she might begin to consider her death from his experience. Will she brace it? Anxiety failed to show on his face, but he knew Hamuko realized as much as she watched him attentively.
There was another odd point bugging him. Ever since the death of Takeharu Kirjio, the suspicion about his past 'ceased' as though everyone decided to stop pursuing the truth. Mitsuru mentioned nothing about it anymore, nor about his absence during the night where they were captured by Ikutsuki. He was glad that it resolved itself, yet there was a harrowing feeling such as the mysterious girl watching him, even at this moment. She might be the answer. But he will endure for now. He will fight this.
Forcing himself not to dive into his thoughts anymore, he focused on the blackboard, where his homeroom teacher entered the room with a young man.
"Alright, everyone. Today, we have yet another transfer student," Ms. Toriumi said. Makoto widened his eyes at the new student. He smiled as well when their eyes met as if reading his mind. After his homeroom teacher gave the class brief words about him, the new transfer student began his introduction.
"My name is Ryoji Mochizuki."
A/N: That will be all for this chapter, readers. I hope I didn't take too long for this chapter. With the mystery of this world deepens, who is that girl? And what ties does Makoto had with Yu Narukami? How far the relationship between Makoto and Hamuko will continue?
Please wait for the next chapter patiently.