Persona: The Shadow of The Apocalypse

by Fictioner12

By the end of 2012, the Four Horsemen will return followed by the defeat of Nyarlathotep, Nyx, Erebus and Izanami to destroy the world once and for all. With no other choice, Philemon seek the help of Naoya Toudou: the Emperor, Tatsuya Suou: the Sun, Minato Arisato: the Universe and Yu Narukami: the World.

68. P: Cosmic Consciousness

Paradox Arc:

Chapter 68: Cosmic Consciousness

Makoto Yuki

10/1/2010 - Naganaki Shrine, Tatsumi Port Island

"You have a strange habit wasting time on certain days," Elpis asked as she made another swing on her swing set. Makoto, who sat at one side of the see-saw, turned to her.

"I could ask you the same thing," Makoto responded, shifting his attention away from her.

"Curiosity baits me," Elpis said, "Expecting your Anima to be easy is a mistake. In the end, your perspective varies day by day."

Makoto said nothing. He noticed Elpis left her swing and approached him. Her next statement startled him. Elpis was much wiser than he thought.

"The only reason she exists is for the Great Seal. Take that away, and so will she."

"I never should have come here."

"Then she is neither living nor dead. Bringing you here was a mercy for her. It was her role to return the power to you."

"But she'll disappear."

"She will live forever in your memories, and it cannot happen without the survival of your world."

"That's not enough for me." Makoto clenched his fist, "This world lives, Elpis. I'm not abandoning this world."

"Live is subjective. All world lives. The question is, will you abandon yours?"

Makoto said nothing. He stood up, ignoring the girl as he walked past her. Today, he'll try talking to Hamuko again. But the battle with Nyx was a few weeks away.

"You cannot be with her. But you know it long ago."

He paused, turning to Elpis, and was surprised to see a slight frown.

"Where would you go with her? There is no place for you two. She is your Paradox. She is you. I admitted this mission was too cruel for you. Perhaps naming her was a mistake. But you must understand. This madness must end."

He clenched his fist in frustration, "I know."

Elpis raised an eyebrow.

"I know it long ago. I thought about it every night, but no matter the path I think of, the sacrifice I had to make, all lead to the same conclusion. I just wanted proof of her existence, and I want her to realize she was real, even briefly, in my life. However..."

Makoto clenched his head, "There's no saving her, isn't it, Elpis?"

She said nothing but taking a few steps towards him.

"Cosmic Consciousness."

He paused, slowly turned towards the girl. She was smiling and he found comfort in it.

"Numerous in the past claimed to attain it; akin to Nirvana, enlightenment, or peace. Describing it to you would be difficult. The best way I can summarize it for you is... 'looking through the universe within oneself, becoming one consciousness with the world'."

"What are you saying?" Makoto asked aggressively. The girl stepped closer.

"Peace, Messiah. Make peace with her, thus making peace with yourself. You should know about death more than anyone else."

"This is pointless," He sighed in deject, "No one will know her existence except me."

"And how is it any different than reality? The Messiah is worshipped throughout centuries, forever in the mind of humanity. But what is the similarity he had with you? You were remembered only by your friends and those you form a bond with. Outside the island, you are but a stranger. But does that mean you never exist? Does living in the memories of one person is not enough to prove Hamuko Arisato's existence?

"The measure of life is the weight they carried when they die. If one person weeps on your grave, that is enough."

Elpis suddenly took out a single card from her back, the card that was originally his. Elpis handed the Contact Card to him, taunting him to touch it.

"What is your motive, Elpis?"

"Showing you the proof of your existence," Elpis gestured the card towards him. He pressed the card with his fingertips.

---

Morning - ?/3/2010 - Graveyard, Tatsumi Port Island, Original World

Graduations Day was merely yesterday when the big news hit the school. The Kirijo attempted to contain the incident, but the connection of the deceased was more widespread than anyone could anticipate. His death came too soon and unforeseen. Even when the new term was a long way from starting, most of the seniors who's familiar with him donned their school uniform as a sign of respect. It's impressive for a transferred student to garnish so many followers, tailing the coffin holding the deceased.

"They said he died on the graduation day." One of the students said to his friends.

"How did he die?" Another female student watching them from the side asked.

"He helped me once in track teams," One student said, "He always seems too quiet, but..."

"Look, even Ms. Toriumi is crying..."

The priest began chanting as the crowds lowered the body into the pit. Several strangers began to assist, claiming that they knew the deceased in his life. He was just one quiet boy, but the people who wept on his grave that cold morning? It felt as though everyone had lost a part of themselves.

His friends from school were talking, comforting, seeking shoulders to cry, and seeking a leave to hide their tears. His dorm mates, however...

Makoto had no idea what to say upon the sight of it. Elpis stood next to him as they watched the scene from afar. He turned to Elpis, and she gave a small nod. He wasted no time rushing towards the crowd.

Almost all whom he formed a bond with came to his funeral. He had no sense of touch, presence, or anything. His body passed through Kenji, who was watching from the back with a grim face. The morning must be cold, despite not raining, for he saw Fuuka tugged her long-sleeve hard.

Fuuka was sobbing heavily, her hands never left her face as she holding back the stream of tears. Akihiko stroked her shoulder on the side, but there were traces of redness on his eyes as well. Koromaru whined softly next to Junpei's leg, admiringly smart to recognize the loss. Junpei tugged his hat extra lowed, as though he didn't want anyone to see his face. Ken was the only one crouching in front of the grave, placing a flower bouquet in front of it. Mitsuru stood next to the young boy, with Yukari crying hysterically on her shoulder.

Makoto searched for Aigis for a while, and found her outside the graveyard, watching the crowds from behind a tall tree. It was as though she was afraid of approaching his tombstone, like a sin too heavy to bear.

"You are rather calm," Elpis disturbed his focus, her eyes watching the tombstone with great interest, "Perhaps you were ready long ago."

"I know what I left behind," Makoto acknowledged it, "But I don't see this similar to Hamuko's case."

"You will live to mourn her, as all these people."

"But she-"

"Stop telling yourself such remark. It matters not if a million or dozens mourn her, if her presence alone changes the life of only one man, she lives. As long as you remember her, she never fades."

The Contact Card in her hand glowed.

---

Naganaki Shrine

They returned to the shrine, but Makoto's mind still wandered in the vision. He never truly witnessed his own burial, but the rough image he had never came close to the real thing.

"How did you do that?" He asked, removing his hand from the card.

"That is not your question." Elpis shook her head.

Makoto paused for a while, but finally mustered what's in his mind.

"I won't change my mission."

He would expect the girl to look disappointed. Instead, Elpis appeared contented with his answer.

"Salvation of this world, perhaps this will be a miracle as great as the real messiah." Elpis answered, "Wish for it deeply if you want it to happened."

He didn't understand those words at the time as Elpis disappeared. She just gave him a powerful hint, but he wouldn't understand it.

---

25/1/2010 – Secluded Realm

And he still didn't. Curious how that memory returned to him at this time. That encounter with Elpis lingered in his mind as of late, probably because he was closing to the deadline of this world. He had no idea how to save her, but Elpis somehow hint a solution.

Bored, he observed the imitation of the real place. This room was identical to his bedroom, but the constant bright sunlight scorching through the curtain was chilling. In fact, the room itself required no fan or air conditioner. Still, he was impressed with the realism despite the imitation. The male attendant specifically told him not to delve too much into the 'details' of his room. "Perceive it as normal.": so Theodore said, otherwise he would be aware of the crunchy sound of his bed, the plastic sound of his chair, and the touch of paper fabric on his school uniform.

Still, he was too passive to express discontent. He was promised only less than 2 nights instead of ten days. Odd how the time works for each world. What day was it for Hamuko? What day was it in his world?

As usual, his thoughts eventually drifted towards the image of the girl who existed as his Anima. His lips curved, then cursed himself for enjoying the luxury of the current moment. Both worlds were heading for battles that determine the world, and there he was, blinded by these walls he called his room.

The diary he kept with him was laid on the desk, the only 'real' object in this place. He took it with him towards the bed and jumped on it, triggering multiple cracking sounds. He couldn't sleep, and he wasn't tired in the slightest. He made it his new routine to lay on the bed with his earphone and revised the content of his book.

Only then he noticed the young girl sitting on his bed. Elpis smirked, as though she knew he was pondering about that one encounter.

"Your enemy has come for you from your world."

Makoto leaped from his bed and stared at her, reaffirming himself. Elpis was telling the truth.

"Theodore was attacked a while ago," She pointed her finger at the door, "And he is coming for you at this moment."

"I need to counter-attack," He immediately searched for his Evoker, but Elpis paused him.

"That thing will not help you." Elpis said, "I do have a better temporary solution."

Knock!

Someone was at his door. Fear began to envelop him. He watched Elpis with questioning eyes.

"Where can I go?" Makoto asked.

Despite everything that happened, Elpis was calm beyond logic.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Afternoon - 25/1/2010 - Nursery, Gekkoukan High, Tatsumi Port Island

Her headache hurt too much to open her eyes. Wherever she was, she was thankful to her savior. The last memories she had were her talking to Aigis and of the river Styx.

Eventually, she opened her eyes slowly and found herself in the nursery room. Aigis was at her side, watching her with weariness, despite being impossible for a machine. Aigis noticed her immediately when she turned her head, that she perked up from her chair and...

"Are you alright, Mina- Forgive me. I mean, Makoto-san?"

...Eh? Was she referring to her?

"Aigis?" She spoke, but instantly noted the change in her voice, "My voice..."

"You are safe in the nursery room. Mitsuru-san is outside, asking about you. You suffered from unknown shock, though I do not what to make of this. Where did you come from, Makoto-san?"

"Makoto-san? What are you talking about-"

She gasped the moment she removed the blanket. She was wearing a male uniform, with a blue mp3 player around her neck. Her body didn't feel like her own. The voice was however recognizable. The horror began to fill her.

"I need a mirror," She jumped from her bed and didn't bother waiting for Aigis to respond. There were a mirror and a sink at the far end of the nursery room, where the teacher in charge used it for bandage and cleaning. She rushed to the sink and observed the mirror.

She nearly screamed.

In the mirror, Makoto was staring back at her.

"Hamuko, calm down. It's me. I'm here."

A familiar voice rang in her head.

"Makoto?"

"I can't explain it yet, but you need to leave! This world still views you as Hamuko, not me! Other than Aigis, they won't recognize your look."

Hamuko was startled by the grab on her shoulder. Aigis was watching her with concern.

"Who are you talking to?" Aigis asked.

How could she explain the shocking event? From outside the room, she overheard the sound of Mitsuru talking to the nursery teacher.

"Unfortunately, we had no idea who that student is," Mitsuru's voice was heard with a sense of authority, "A stranger having our school uniform still bear concern to us. Aigis claimed she found this man on the rooftop."

"He should still be inside," The nursery teacher replied.

Hamuko hurriedly grabbed Aigis arm, "Aigis, we need to run."

"What do you mean?" Aigis asked.

"Nobody recognized me but you here. Didn't you hear Mitsuru-san's word?"

Aigis opened her mouth to talk, but no words came up at first until she pushed her.

"Aigis..."

"...Understood. Where do we go?"

"Anywhere, far from the crowds for now." Hamuko turned to the window next to the sink. Fortunately, they were on the first floor. "Let's bolt."

---

Mind Room

He screamed as loud as he could upon regaining his awareness. He immediately tried to lift his body but found his chest aching like mad. Anxiety streamed his mind as he recalled his last moment before falling unconscious.

Wasn't he supposed to be dead, killed by the Crawling Chaos? He forced his head upward and found himself still in the Mind Room, where he was left. The large hole on his chest, however, was plugged with a massive white marble crystal, as big as the wound in his chest. How and where the marble came into that would, or even why; he didn't know. One thing he understood was he felt extremely weak.

"Avoid movement, Theodore."

A female voice startled him from his left side. Mistress Elpis was sitting with folded legs as she watched him with an unreadable expression. Theodore noticed the lady looked much older than her original copy, Rei. She was tall, almost reaching her 20s, and her beauty was tenfold.

"M-Mistress Elpis..."

For some reason, her beauty didn't awe him one bit but struck a strange feeling of supremacy over him instead. Was this another one of Nyarlathotep's trick?

"You betrayed my promise," Elpis scolded with an almost disappointed tone, "Never mention me unless they spoke of me first."

"I-I..." Theodore stuttered, "How am I alive?"

She reached out her arm and searched for something in his trouser's pocket. Inside was the card she sent to him days ago with the instruction of Minato's skipping. This time, however, the card was pale in color, as though the light within it had faded.

"A precaution in case you were attacked, but I never expect the healing factor stored in this card will be diminished to such scale. The Crawling Chaos is much more powerful than before."

Crawling Chaos. Theodore nearly leaped from where he laid, but the mistress roughly pushed him down again.

"Nyarlathotep! He's here! We need to find him fast! Minato-sama is in danger!"

"Do not make me repeat myself, young attendant. Rest. I have everything ready in place," Mistress Elpis stood up from her place, preparing to leave for somewhere, "Rest assure, the messiah is safe."

Theodore didn't argue this time. In fact, he was simply too baffled. The mistress spoke as though she knew the arrival of the enemy. Of course, there's no way he would dare voicing it.

"Did you take him to somewhere safe?" Theodore asked as Mistress Elpis began walking away. She turned to him with almost a faint smile.

"Safest place in this world from the Crawling Chaos."

---

Aigis

Evening - 25/1/2010 - Naganaki Shrine

"Nobody is following us."

"Good, we can stop here."

When she and the blue-haired boy finally slowed their pace at the shrine that evening, something tugged her memories so much that she didn't understand if he was saddened by something, or there was another truth. Perhaps she was so confused by the disappearance of Hamuko that she didn't know where to start.

Or... 'he' actually meant what he said earlier and was telling the truth.

"I... will do my best to believe you, Hamuko-san."

"Thank you," He nodded slightly, "But even I am confused with everything. I will have you out of this, Aigis. I'm sorry. I'm Hamuko Arisato, that's the entirety of it."

Aigis tugged his sleeve, "Am I not good enough to be trusted? No matter how many times the world change around you, I will always search for the truth to remember! I know Makoto Yuki, the body you own. I know he is the true vessel of Death. But who are you, in truth? What is the relationship between you two? What truly happened ten years ago? Please, tell me."

He turned to her and revealed a complex expression she couldn't understand.

"Makoto Yuki." He suddenly spoke, "He is part of me, always. And yet, now that he literally becomes me, I didn't feel a thing; neither shock nor joy. Because it doesn't matter anymore. Right now, thousands of foreign memories, yet familiar, were streaming through my mind. I know him more than anyone, more than myself, for I am him, and he is me."

"You mean it like a persona?" Aigis responded. But Hamuko shook his head and continued.

"I can't describe it, Aigis, but I can feel our minds are merging. This is no Persona nor Shadow, but more. When those memories come crashing down on me, it changes me, and my appearance. We're becoming one, and that thought terrified me. He was so close, Aigis, too close. But I can't even touch him. Is this what will happen once we become one? The constant thought of being in this state... I'm not sure whether I hate it, or love it."

"Hate and love the same thing?" Aigis asked. Such an intriguing statement. She was simply a weapon incapable of unraveling a human heart. But then, Hamuko and Makoto was no ordinary human. The same person, but not?

The blue-haired boy suddenly perked up and turned in one direction. He mouthed something, staring at nothing in front of it, and nodded.

"Now?" Hamuko spoke, "Okay..."

In a blink of an eye, Aigis gasped at the astonishing figure in front of her. The auburn-haired girl with a pinkish mp3 player stood with a majestic white glow around her. It happened so instant, Hamuko didn't notice her appearance until she looked down.

"You changed back," Aigis said.

"Makoto has finished synchronizing with my mind, but only enough to stabilize our appearance. He will reside within me for now." Hamuko said. It was then she noticed her phone was ringing, "Yes? Mitsuru-san? I'm okay... Aigis?" She peeked at her. "She was chasing after a guy who stole the school uniform."

Hamuko gently pulled her hand as they walked home. For now, Hamuko was alright.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Night - Iwatodai Dorm

She and Makoto both stared at the mirror, where the figure of an auburn ponytailed-hair girl returned eye contact at them. Makoto raised her arm, and the mirror trailed it. It's incredible how easily they grew accustomed to their shared body. Two minds in one.

"Can I ask now?" Hamuko asked.

Makoto was silent for a while before he confessed, "...My enemy is here, from my world. He came for something from me."

"So you hide inside my mind."

"Ridiculous, I know," Makoto replied. She turned from the mirror and returned to the bed. Makoto continued, "He won't kill me, but the same can't be said about you. The only way to ensure your life is for us to be merged."

"Elpis is certainly an idealist."

"And I thought Igor was tough to crack."

Eventually, they reached the bed. In truth, however, the pair knew they were simply delaying the inevitable with their empty talk. Makoto wasn't sure how long they will be in the same body. Alas, they couldn't avoid the event that would happen. Even as the same person, they were of man and woman. And Hamuko wouldn't miss a bath, plus the uniform was worn from the running today.

The face of Hamuko Arisato had turned boiling red as they turned silent.

"I'm sorry," Makoto said.

"Well, I trust what you're doing was right. So... I forgive you for this once." Hamuko replied, "However, I'm blindfolding myself."

And thus, with a small cloth around her eyes, she began to unbutton her uniform and stripped.

Hamuko began asking something to distract him, "Have you found a way to preserve this world?"

Makoto said nothing in her head. But based on their emotion, she knew in instant.

"You tried, didn't you?" She continued, "I know you stay awake at night thinking about it."

"There's still time."

"I know," She admitted.

They were both out of words.

---

Morning - 30/1/2010 - Gekkoukan High

From the moment Makoto made this decision, they knew they never could -perhaps never will- cope with the shared body, despite being familiar with it. Yet Makoto insisted he must remain as one existence until the battle with Nyx, in the case that the enemy managed to track them.

And today, Hamuko began to agree. Someone was watching her from afar. The presence was so ominous, it's a wonder how was it nobody noticed the aura it emitted.

"Someone is watching us," Makoto said in her head.

Hamuko nodded to herself. She turned to her back, observing the hordes of students preparing for the last few days of January. Any of those students could be him.

"I thought he couldn't find you," Hamuko said.

"He didn't found me. He found you. He doesn't know yet..."

They glanced at Aigis, who was walking closely beside them at the side and was watching the direction of their focus.

"What is it, Hamuko-san?" Aigis asked. That was the greatest puzzlement. Aigis was unable to trace the source of such an overwhelming creature.

"Nothing for now," Hamuko said, leaving Makoto's consciousness behind and sealed. For a few days, they had mastered a way to let the other personality 'sleep' while another being conscious. They were still able to feel each other, but the voices will become distinct.

Aigis nodded slightly. It was fortunate she didn't pry too much into the truth of the matter. But with everything they spoke of their separated existence, Aigis believed every single word and was doing everything she could to help them.

The bell started to ring, and students walked into the school. A pair of students, however, caught her eyes. Odd. That was the fourth confession they saw for today alone. Almost as though they were shown things they hated. Perhaps it was intentional.

Yes, things they hated they couldn't have. They were lovers for only a day before this happened.

"Makoto," She called him from their psyche.

"Yes?"

"I need to accept what I am for your last rank. But I'm not ready yet."

Makoto said nothing. Eventually, she allowed him to sleep for now. Amidst the students in front of them, she saw familiar figures in uniforms waiting for her and Aigis. Junpei and Yukari looked natural on the outside, but Hamuko knew they were anxious to fight against Nyx.

"Hey," Junpei called out to her, "You're sleeping okay?"

"More or less."

"Not me, sadly," Yukari said, glancing around the passing by students, "These people, they don't know how many days they had."

'Neither do you...' Hamuko thought, 'You have no idea how many days this world had...'

"We must win," Aigis added.

"Come on, guys," Junpei said, "Make sure to say goodbye to anyone you're going to miss. Don't want any regret..."

Silence passed through them.

"We will win," Hamuko finally spoke, "Once we finish our fight, we'll meet again at the rooftop."

They perked up at Hamuko pointing her finger at the top of the school. The anxiety on them was lifted for now, but it was enough.

For some reason, she felt like the tip of her finger turned transparent for a moment, but it was probably her mind playing tricks.

---

Velvet Room

Theodore fell on Igor's chair again after the third attempt. Like humans and gods, he could die, but resting without duty and task irked him much more than death. Besides, he was secretly worried Nyarlathotep will return and finished his job.

He forced himself to his feet again, feeling the hole on his chest decreasing in size, but still large enough to fit a cannonball.

His destination was the only place left where his hands were available to use. The Mind Room was as twisted as he assumed it was. But a job is a job. Theodore dropped himself on the soft cushion chair inside the small room, taking notes of the progress he made days ago in this room as per Mistress's request.

Cultural Festival. It's almost odd to see himself wearing an apron in those memories. His sisters were always too much of a bully. But once in a while, he missed them more than he thought he would.

Seeing his missing sister made him depressed. Almost too long ago since he received her tease. Igor did not answer if his sister can be saved from the seal, but the probable answer was perhaps undeniable from the start.

Like a tape recorder, he began revising the memories from the moment Minato entered the alternate Yasoinaba High. It was an easy revision since Minato and Yu lacked interactions. Although, it seemed they were comfortable with each other's leadership.

Mistress Elpis told him to find out any interaction that may be crucial, but the 'crucial' was too vague. What was it the mistress wanted to find-

Theodore blinked at the screen. It was the moment Minato and Yu were at Love Date Cafe and before their battle at the church. It was just a normal conversation as described by Minato, but they had a moment of a handshake. Something 'glowing' passed from Minato to Yu through their handshakes.

Could this be it, the point of mistress's interest?

He reviewed the scenery again in the Mind Room. 'Something' was given to Yu from Minato. Something familiar...

"Bond?" Theodore mused, "A hidden social link?"

There was Arcana symbolizing the bond between them. Taking Wild Cards into the matter, perhaps their bonds were unique. Perhaps...

"Theodore. Listen to me."

He was startled by the voice in his head. How did she do that?

"Mistress Elpis? Where are you?"

"Leave the room. Hurry. Wait for my signal. The time has come for the forging of the Universe Arcana for Hamuko Arisato. Be ready, be very ready."

Theodore, for the first time, didn't reject his thoughts. He accepted it, and he was ready.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Dark Hour - 31/1/2010 - Top of Tartarus

This is it. After everything they had worked for, it had come down to this final battle. She could still feel Makoto in her mind, watching her steps as she climbed the stairs.

She glanced at the back and noticed everyone was wearied from the fight with Jin and Takaya on the lower floor. Hamuko herself exhausted much of her power in the previous fight. But her instinct told her the fight was far from over.

"Hamuko, this is it." Makoto's voice rang inside her head. "The last fight for you in this world."

Hamuko said nothing, but she nodded silently to herself and approached the circular platform of the tower. Fuuka was the one who noticed it first.

A gownless figure descending upon the tower's peak from the moon, floating through the green-hued night sky. Nyx Avatar didn't seem foreign to her. The appearance of the tall figure landing in front of them sparked some old memories within her.

"The Arcana is the mean by which all is revealed..."

She heard those words before. But her mind was foggy for some reason. Odd, why was the Night queen had been staring at her for a while?

'Child of Universe, I know what you are and who you harbor within you. And someone does too.'

"Eh?" Hamuko gasped. It was Nyx's voice in her head.

"She knows about me!" Makoto's voice rang through her head.

'He is coming for your other self, Child of Universe. He knows...'

'What is she talking about?!' Hamuko thought, calling out to her Animus. What answered was a silence. 'Makoto?'

It was then she noticed her hand was... disappearing.

"Leader, look ahead!"

Fuuka's voice screamed in her ear. She raised her head and narrowly avoided the long blade of Nyx Avatar. The battle had begun a while ago.

"Sorry! What's the situation?"

"Her Arcana is Fool! Try direct attack!" Fuuka said.

Hamuko glanced at her hand. It was fading, but odd enough that nobody noticed it. She ignored the fading hand and faced her final opponent.

---

Makoto Yuki

River Styx

Makoto tried to stay calm after failing to reach Hamuko with his voice. But no matter what he did, he was anxious. The river in this realm was flooding like a storm as if their psyche knew the world was coming to an end. He sidestepped further from the bank, avoiding the splash.

Only then did he notice the other side of the river was collapsing, washed away by the strong water current. It was Hamuko's half psyche, and he knew then Hamuko's existence was fading from this world and resisting it.

Someone was poisoning this world and destroying the river of soul.

Was the enemy out there, looking for him? Makoto leaped into the flooding river.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Top of Tartarus

Hamuko resisted the throbbing in her heart as she reached the final phase of Nyx Avatar. Makoto had been silent for a while, and she knew something bad was happening to him. Still, she continued and fight on.

"Her true Arcana is Death! This is it!" Fuuka screamed.

"Understood!" Aigis nodded, launching another shot at the enemy as the rest of the team attacked. Hamuko summoned on, but... that throbbing in her body...

"I know your purpose... But you are losing time, Child of Universe."

Nyx Avatar suddenly halted her attack. Assuming it to be another counter-attack, she backed away.

"Guys, be careful! She's planning something-"

Hamuko paused.

No one was around her. The world on top of the tower became deaf. Hamuko looked around, searching for her friends.

"Guys? Eh? Aigis?!"

She was shocked to find only Aigis laying on the ground behind her. There was... strange aura emerging from her body.

"Hamuko... san..." Aigis muttered, "What is going on?"

"Aigis, wait there! I'm coming-"

All of a sudden, a powerful flood of dark water washed over the top of the tower. Its arrival was so sudden, Aigis disappeared amidst the sudden water.

Hamuko couldn't think straight. Where did the flood come from; on top of the tower, nonetheless? Ignoring Nyx Avatar behind her, she surveyed around. The naginata in her hand fell to the ground.

The entire world beyond the tower was submerged in dark water, as dark as the one in the River Styx.

"What's happening? This..." Hamuko found it difficult to breathe, "The world...!"

"This is not my doing, Child of Universe. The intruder has begun his destruction..."

She turned to her back and saw the tall night figure approached her. Hamuko took a fighting stance, but her instinct told her Nyx didn't intend to continue.

"What do you mean?"

"The intruder is pulling your other self from within you by corrupting this world. Make haste, your other self is in danger..."

Hamuko, stunned at first, remembered the enemy chasing after Makoto. She turned to her back and left the area.

"Child of Universe..."

She paused, glancing at the night queen.

"You made this world from him, as he made you from the Universe Arcana. Thus, this world is of his Universe. His old power diminished, but the power will be reforged. Now, the time for you to make your decision has arrived. This power and you are one and the same. Use it to preserve the world, and his world is doomed. Return it to him, and the world fades."

Hamuko observed the surrounding world again, submerged in deep water. Only then did she knew the water came from river Styx, and Nyx spoke true. Her psyche was weakening, allowing the enemy to invade it.

"You're right..." Hamuko replied, clenching her teeth in anger at herself, "I'm partly at fault for this. I don't want to forget this love I felt for him. That's the whole truth."

All of a sudden, the sky suddenly brightened. The cloud split, letting the moonlight shone its radiance upon her. Nyx Avatar left the ground and floated towards the moon.

"The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed. Seek the Arcana, Child of Universe. Your answer lies there, among the hidden time and eternity. Seek the messiah, less all dreams will cease. The Seven Seal is mightier than me, the only thing..."

Nyx Avatar disappeared. Albeit lost, Hamuko took a deep breath and began to walk towards the edge of the platform. Find Makoto. It's time to accept this.

She jumped towards the flood and, surprisingly, her feet didn't submerge into the water.

---

Makoto Yuki

Sea of Soul

The sea was almost boundless in Makoto's eyes. He had been walking on water for hours, but perhaps his perception of time was horribly distorted here. The sky wasn't too dark anymore, and countless stars shone brightly above the cloud.

He could feel the pulling of the Universe Arcana. It was a nostalgic feeling, and he knew the lost Arcana was mutually eager to be embraced by him. But something dragged his feet and he knew he needed to find what he was looking for.

From the distance, he saw a bizarre sight. The top of a tower was submerged in water, and the moon was hovering oddly close above it. Tartarus? Impossible. But the world around him- sea, boundless and without end- reminded him of the Sea of Soul.

He narrowed his eyes at a small figure closing on him. With the strange pull towards the girl, he knew the identity of the person. Makoto couldn't contain his grin as he ran. The girl finally noticed him and he saw a joyous jump from her. Truly, the world and dream finally merged.

But then, what about his enemy-

Crash!

Something fast came crashing down in front of him, creating a huge splash that blinded him for a moment. He opened his eyes and was horrified by the person lying on the water surface.

"Aigis?!"

She was badly damaged, so much that many of her limbs were torn apart like a ragdoll. Her metal pupils were moving and focusing on him, but no words escaped her mouth, not with five huge claw marks over her throat.

"Aigis, what happened to you?" Makoto rushed towards her, only to see another figure standing above her.

A man resembled him but clothed in the darkest garment he ever laid eyes on. His black mask covered only the left half of his face, while the visible half lips curved broadly in satisfaction; a predator finally cornered his prey.

"Found you!~"

Makoto recognized that voice. His fear skyrocketed.

Nyarlathotep.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Sea of Soul

"Makoto!" Hamuko screamed as she burst into a run. She had no clue the identity of the newcomer resembling Makoto, but she smelled danger even from this distance. The danger in question was elegantly approaching the blue-haired boy, but each step brimmed with killing intent. As he left his stationary location, she finally saw Aigis lying on the water surface.

"What did you do to her?!" She screamed, gaining the attention of the mysterious invader. He tilted his head with a snicker towards her. Hamuko ignored him and ran towards the fallen girl. Aigis was unresponsive.

"There is something special about her," The Makoto look-alike said, "Her bond towards him is greater than anyone. I supposed it only makes sense she inherited the piece of the Universe. I never expect her counterpart will share the same trail." He suddenly perked up, remembering something, "I have yet to introduce myself. Nyarlathotep, Crawling Chaos, Messenger of Gnawing Fool Eldritch Dreamer."

Nyarlathotep bowed. Hamuko wasted no time to lift her weapon and leaped forwards.

"Didn't you hear me?!" Hamuko swung down her naginata at the Evil Incarnated.

"Hamuko, no!" Makoto took out his Evoker and dashed towards Nyarlathotep as well. They both moved at super-speed, but Makoto's aim was towards her as if to push her away.

"Come, then," Nyarlathotep snickered again, this time his smile was abnormally broader. From behind him, the invader flipped open a huge book and selected a particular page, "I am so close to the power!"

Makoto Yuki & Hamuko Arisato VS Prime Nyarlathotep

"Azathoth Arcana: Moon." Nyarlathotep took out an Eldritch version of Tarot Card and let it burst into a dark fog. Immediately, the world around them darkened with the appearance of a red moon above them. Hamuko and Makoto felt their power wavering, like a steel turning to glass. He easily dodged Hamuko's naginata with insane speed, at the same time performed a reverse roundhouse kick at the jumping figure of Makoto.

"Asura: Tetrakan!" Makoto summoned his persona and repelled the attack. Nyarlathotep didn't faze and simply ducked his torso at the counter-attack. His feet left the water surface and hovered away from them, regaining his posture. Hamuko and Makoto joined each other side by side and stretched out their weapon.

"He's lowering our power capacity," Makoto whispered, "I felt it when I cast my persona."

"The red moon?" Hamuko replied without breaking eye contact with the enemy. Makoto nodded. "Buff it is, then," Hamuko suggested. Makoto aimed his Evoker at her temple.

"Trumpeter: Debilitate!" Hamuko summoned her persona and cast a silent spell at the enemy, lowering his stat. Nyarlathotep immediately widened his eyes, but there was no surprise to his face. He remained where he was, but his book was opened.

"Dimensional Shambler." He was summoning something invisible. A splash of water was approaching them at high speed.

"Hamuko, go!" Makoto immediately lowered his body. Hamuko leaped on his shoulder and jumped from it. Makoto, at the same time, pushed himself upward for extra momentum for her. Before leaping high towards the fake red moon looming above them, Hamuko took out her Evoker and pointed the barrel at Makoto's head.

"Sandalphon!" Makoto summoned his persona and had it tanked the incoming attack. True enough, something invisible crashed at Sandalphon with a powerful force, nearly pushed Makoto at the back as well. Meanwhile, Hamuko vertically swung her naginata at the moon and sliced it in half. The red moon shattered, crumbling into a thousand pieces. In midair, Hamuko took out her Evoker as she descended towards Makoto.

"Kohryu!" She made the large dragon cushioned her fall, as well as slamming its body on the invisible creature in front of Sandalphon. No sound came except for a water splash. They both unsummoned their personas and pressed their backs on each other.

"He's gone."

"Yeah," Makoto answered her statement. Nyarlathotep disappeared a while ago. "How many items you got left?"

"Enough for 4 people." Hamuko gripped her Evoker tight. Makoto did the same. With the spare time they had, they ran to the fallen Aigis and checked on her.

"She's not gone yet." Makoto lifted Aigis's head and saw her dead stares.

"We can't protect her while fighting," Hamuko said.

"You take her away," Makoto suggested, "I'm not arguing."

"You know I will," Hamuko rejected.

"Hamuko, I'm stronger."

"We're equal! I'm staying!"

"Are you two done talking?"

They immediately turned to the voice, only to see a massive hairy creature clawing for Hamuko's face. She dodged but barely missed as the claw cut through her upper chest, leaving five bloody lines. She groaned in pain. Makoto, at the side, made a powerful horizontal cut across the creature's abdomen. The creature backed away in pain, but suddenly an invisible force kicked Makoto at the back, throwing him forward. Before he landed, he summoned another persona.

"Orpheus Telos: Diarahan! Black Viper!" Orpheus Telos healed Makoto just in time before he crashed down on the water surface, at the same time landing an almighty attack in the direction of his attacker. A screeching voice was heard, and a pale creature with no eyes and a huge set of fangs lost its invisibility. Half of its face was blown by Makoto's attack. However, the hairy creature regained its posture, despite the damage it received.

Hamuko was the closest to Aigis at the moment. They knew their next plan without a word, much to her annoyance. The short eye contact they made solidified the spell they needed. Hamuko immediately grabbed Aigis. On cue, they both jumped into mid-air.

"Thor!" Hamuko summoned.

"Take-Mikazuchi!" Makoto summoned.

Fusion Spell: Thunder Call- The two personas combined their lightning power and aimed it at the water surface, sending a massive shockwave across the water surface. From the corner of her eyes, Hamuko could see a few more invisible creatures of various sizes surrounding them. The fusion was beneficial, for immediately after the shockwave of lightning dispersed, Hamuko carried Aigis on her shoulder and summoned.

"Attis: Debilitate!" Increasing her speed, she dashed away from the battleground. The only flaw of this place was the possibility of Nyarlathotep pursuing her. However, after running for a while, it was clear that Makoto was the main target.

"I'll come back to you..." She vowed to herself.

---

Makoto Yuki

"Good, the girl is finally gone. It'll be a shame to kill your counterpart," Nyarlathotep presented himself among the hordes of creatures, "Do your lips taste good? You must have kissed her."

"I don't know what you want from me," Makoto bent down and dipped his sword into the water, cleaning it, "But this world doesn't end. Not yet. Leave."

"The Messiah himself doesn't know?" Nyarlathotep raised his eyebrows, the first genuine surprise he saw from the creature, "I would have thought Igor had more wisdom. Keeping you in the dark... seems logical."

Makoto furrowed his eyebrows and flushed out his sword, "Is this about a second power inhabit within me years ago?"

"Ah! So you are not out of the loop," Nyarlathotep opened his large book again, "Let us make things simple. I don't want to kill you, but it will depend on your answer."

"Whatever power I have, I don't have it," Makoto replied, "Go find Chronos, he knows."

"I'll be sure to check on him," He grinned, "But the power is here. I can feel it pulsing..."

"I say it again: Leave."

"So be it... Yidhra."

One of the creatures with a feminine figure behind Nyarlathotep suddenly disappeared, reappearing in front of him. Makoto quickly launched a quick uppercut slash. The feminine creature, however, dispersed into a mass of flying insects, encapsulating him. Makoto reacted faster.

"Messiah: Mahamaon!"

The insects burned to ashes at the overwhelming light surrounding him. His ultimate persona floated above him like a radiant light. He glared at Nyarlathotep, preparing for the offensive.

"I hope you bring greater entertainment to me compare to the rest of your fellow prophecied men," The Crawling Chaos smirked, lustful, excited. "Azathoth Arcana: Judgement."

Thousands and thousands of brimming red arrows filled the sky, all pointing at him. He serened himself and prepared his counter.

---

Hamuko Arisato

Top of Tartarus

Hamuko gently laid Aigis's head on the hard surface of the Tartarus platform. Despite calling out her name a few times, the machine gave no response, but her iris moved and trailed her face.

"You'll be safe here," Hamuko said, "I'll come back later."

She stood up but was surprised to see her sleeve gripped by metallic fingers. Aigis still spoke nothing, as though something was stuck in her throat.

"What is it?" Hamuko asked. Aigis moved her mouth, begging for a voice.

"A blonde girl... She told me... My... Papillon..."

"She?"

Aigis pulled her arms towards the back of her neck. Only she knew the location of Aigis's Plump of Dusk.

"You want me to take it?"

"Ah... Ah..." Aigis voiced herself again, but no word came through. Suddenly, her hand fell, and no sound came from her again.

"Aigis?!" Hamuko called out, shaking her shoulder, but she didn't move. "No..." Hamuko let out a yelp, "You can't die here..."

Her hand went through the back of Aigis's neck, and something was glowing in it. She was stunned, however, by the absence of her own hand. Numbness washed over her as if her time limit was approaching. She clenched her fist hard, and an outline of her hand finally visible enough for her to grab it.

And she saw it, shaped like a butterfly, directly below Aigis's original Plume of Dusk. The last piece of this world. The piece of the Universe.

The reason behind Aigis abnormal immunity towards the change of the world became clear.

"The last core of this world... was within you all along."

---

Makoto Yuki

Nyarlathotep was strong, but it's nothing he couldn't handle. However, he knew the Crawling Chaos was holding back to make sure he was intact when the battle is done.

It was obvious from the start. Why sent one monster at a time to attack him when he could just attack him all at the same time? There might be an advantage...

"Megidola!" Messiah cast almighty attack directly at the group of creatures with Nyarlathotep among it. The enemy seemed almost bored as he summoned another creature.

"Hydra." One massive creature with multiple heads emerged from beneath the water surface. From its mouths, multiple blasts were released. But Makoto's attack was faster.

A ray of white light plummeted Hydra to the ground, taking with it a few monsters as well. Makoto already expected Nyarlathotep to dodge away. He began to stagger and fell on one knee. Nyarlathotep snickered at his heavy breathing.

"Out of juice, are we?" He said. "You are as the rumors said. Unfortunately, without your Universe power, you're barely on the level of Tatsuya Suou."

The Crawling Chaos took out another card from his book. Fool Arcana.

"Azathoth Arcana: Fool."

Another figure in a black palette resembling his shape suddenly appeared in front of him, trailed by a huge black fog. He lifted his sword, but his dark counterpart mirrored his movement and countered. A spark of light appeared from the clash of swords. Makoto backed away, but his counterpart followed. They made another attack, but at the very last second, Makoto allowed his doppelganger to stab him in the left shoulder. Makoto stumbled away and laid his back on the water surface, releasing the grip of Evoker and let it stumbled away before it sank into the water. It was fortunate they were fighting above the water, otherwise, fall would injure him further. However, he just lost his Evoker.

His instinct was right. Nyarlathotep froze his summon and made every one of them disappeared. Makoto watched his enemy approached him, knowing his victory.

"Game's over, Messiah. Time to talk," Nyarlathotep crouched down and watched his face, "Give me what I want, and I'll make it quick."

"You're really insistent, you know?" Makoto responded, "Why?"

"Enough bravado, fool. Your Universe Arcana is the only lead to the power," Nyarlathotep sounded irritated for a moment, "Or did Igor tell you nothing? Spit it."

The Shadow pressed his left foot on his chest. Makoto groaned in pain, but his eyes never left the invader. Even if he had one shot, he must take it.

But Nyarlathotep's next question caught him by surprise. Perhaps this was the thing Elpis told him to investigate during his lost memories with the Investigation Team?

And yet, those words... What was it? What did Nyarlathotep mean when he asked him?

"Where is the Archetype of Creator?"

"...What?" Makoto muttered, "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Then how do you explain the birth of that girl, your Anima?" He almost looked... bored, disappointed. "That proved enough you use that power two years ago. It was within you, and still is."

...What's going on? Makoto ignored the pain in his left shoulder and let his mind wandered. The archetype of... what? Did Chronos mention it before sending him away?

Was this the second power he possessed all this time? Did Igor lie to him again? What did Hamuko have to do with this?

No time to think, the plan had to be executed...

"Well..." Makoto began, "The truth is..."

Nyarlathotep perked up. The time is now.

Makoto swung his leg and kicked the back of the invader, pushing his leg away from Makoto's chest. The Shadow didn't groan, but he did seem amazed. Finally.

Makoto allowed himself to be dunk into the water surface, the same water the flowed through the River Styx. He didn't drown, not in his conscious state. He saw his Evoker flowing above the sunken island, but he was looking for the small bead that belonged to Hamuko.

Earlier, as they both were fighting, Hamuko dropped some healing items into the water, obscured from Nyarlathotep's sight. The decision was made telepathically, but this plan was made by him alone. He quickly shoved one of the recovery items into his mouth.

He felt his leg being pulled out of the water. Dangling from upside down, he saw Nyarlathotep's smirking face.

"Running away?" He said.

"No, just want to wipe you all out," Makoto immediately revealed his sword and kicked the shadow away. On his two feet, Makoto leaped towards him and grabbed Nyarlathotep's dark gown.

Nyarlathotep aimed raised his book and opened it slightly. One of the pages inside glowed.

"Azathoth Arcana: Chariot." A massive brownish sphere appeared and spun at rapid speed, aiming at him. Makoto knew if he didn't dodge it, he will suffer massive damage. Precisely what he needed.

"Satan! Lucifer! Fusion Spell: Armageddon!"

"What?!" Nyarlathotep backed away, but the distance between them had shrunk too much. "Impossible! Your summoning device-"

The two personas tanked the rolling Chariot sphere and cast.

Over hundreds of meters boomed with a bright explosion. Huge splashes of water filled the air added with a deafening sound. The might of the spell was so powerful, it created enough impact to cause a large wave over the area.

Armageddon was an ace move, desperate finisher. By the time the spell finished its cast, Makoto was truly on the ground from fatigue and exhaustion.

The water surrounding him cast dark mist from the heat of the spell, obscuring his sight. However, he could sense the location of his enemy.

"How do you still have power?" Nyarlathotep's voice was heard, "You were supposed to run out of power..."

"I didn't," Makoto said, "Taking your attack gave you the impression, but I never actually ran out of power. I merely act like it. Although, I do have less than half of my power went you cornered me..."

"...Was it an item?" Nyarlathotep asked.

Makoto chuckled. "When Hamuko and I were breaking the spell of the Blood Moon, she dropped an item that restored my power in the River Styx, beneath the water surface. You didn't notice it."

"So you swallowed the item when you dunk into the river... And learn to cast your persona without your device."

"I never actually 'learn' it. More like making a substitute," Makoto made a finger gun and pointed at his temple, "Evoker was created to trigger fear and adrenaline in our mind, forcing us to embrace near-death situations. I purposely allowed myself into your attack range to evoke the same feeling."

"Impressive, Messiah," The Crawling Chaos voiced himself in the mist, "but your spell cost you everything. If I survive the attack..."

Makoto chuckled sarcastically at the statement, "Then I lost."

"Armageddon R."

Another attack identical to his Armageddon gust over him from within the mist. He didn't remember much due to the shock, but the might of that counterattack surpassed his own.

By the time the attack was done, he was mortally wounded on his entire body.

His half-opened eyes saw a silhouette of a tall figure standing above him. There was a trace of cracks on his mask. The exposed half of his face was frowning.

"I had enough," He heard the creature said with an irked tone, folding open his book, "Azathoth Arcana: Tower."

From beneath him, thousands of stone brick began to form around him. Chains of steel began to bind his hands and legs. It was a fairly tall tower with odd design and gruesome craftsmanship with a transparent window.

As soon as the chain bind his limbs, a force of might began to drain his power and strength. The strange prison made him passed out, and he saw nothing.

Although, as he closed his eyes, he sensed her coming closer to his location.

---

Hamuko Arisato

As soon as she approached the area, Hamuko saw the dark tower suddenly emerged from the ground. Her heart began to thumb anxiously, and soon she was dashing towards where Makoto was.

She immediately recognized the lump of flesh resembling a humanoid figure with a half-mask not far from the tower's front. Makoto was inside the tower, chained up like a crucified figure a few feet above the air and injuries all over his body. Hamuko missed her chance of ambush as soon as Nyarlathotep turned in her direction.

"Well, here is our guest of honor," Nyarlathotep smiled with a lipless mouth, "Since you insisted you know nothing of the Creator's power, I'm going to pry it out of her. You won't mind, do you, Messiah?"

"Keep her out of this... She knows nothing- AH!" Makoto suddenly jolted in pain within the tower, his mouth gushing blood.

"Makoto!" Hamuko shouted, sensing herself flared inside, "I'm the one you want! Leave him!"

Hamuko gripped the object tightly in her palm before slotting it into her pocket. The object she found in Aigis earlier.

"We speak enough," Nyarlathotep finally formed skins around him, again mimicking Makoto in a dark garment, "I'm ending this world at this moment. Embrace Death, Lost Anima."

Hamuko took a battle stance and prepared herself. She needed to use it, but her desire forced it to succumb to the world. She glanced at Makoto, and she saw his fear for her. But she also saw love, pure and untainted, and she knew he was holding back for her sake.

Taking a deep breath, she leaped towards Nyarlathotep. The Crawling Chaos opened his book and prepared to summon another card.

Then, it happened.

The ray of light that blasted from above was too fast for herself and Nyarlathotep to see. Something landed directly behind the invader. Nyarlathotep screeched in pain when a web of gold light locked him in place, forcing him to his knee. Hamuko saw a figure pressing a palm on the back of the Crawling Chaos. She widened her eyes in shock.

"What?! My power! Who are you?!" Nyarlathotep screamed.

"I am the hope," The blonde hair girl said, "I am your last stand."

"Elpis?" Hamuko gasped. The thing Elpis placed on Nyarlathotep's back was a sigil of a butterfly, vibrating colorful light.

"Go, Anima!" Elpis commanded, "The forging is almost done. Go to your Animus! The time is now! Will you let the world waste away to nothingness, or will you preserve it with the power you had? Either way, the decision is now. Make haste, Hamuko Arisato."

"I..." Hamuko gritted her teeth, but she knew it long ago. She must accept it. "Got it!"

She began to run to the small tower where Makoto was being chained up. Nyarlathotep struggled as hard as he could within the bind of light.

"So that's who you are..." Nyarlathotep sounded almost impressed, "No wonder Philemon didn't fear death. He had a successor..."

"In the original world, you may be powerful, but here, you cannot surpass me, Crawling Chaos," Elpis said, then talked to someone, "Theodore, now."

From out of nowhere, the male attendant appeared and flipped open his book, sending many cards flying through the air and placed it around the binding figure. Numerous strange seals began to glow on the water surface and formed a large golden globe around it. Elpis leaped away with the card from Nyarlathotep before the globe could trap her inside with him. Nyarlathotep could move, but most of his limbs budged only a little.

Hamuko ignored them and leaped into the tower's window before breaking the steel chains binding Makoto. She immediately grabbed him before he dropped to the ground.

"Hamuko, I sensed you found something in Aigis earlier," Makoto asked weakly the moment the chain was undone. "Tell me."

She said nothing but revealed the small object. She glanced at the power in her hand, the reason for her existence. Living as a memory of Makoto Yuki will be enough for her. But it was a lie she told herself, a lie she needed to accept. There was no way out for her or her world. All will return to Makoto.

"Makoto, this is the piece of the Universe Arcana," She revealed, "This is the piece that's sustaining this world. It was hidden within Aigis all along."

"What?" Makoto looked dumbfounded, but serenity returned to him quickly, "I supposed that made sense for my successor..."

Something clicked in their mind. It was after Aigis's arrival that the 'telepathy' between them began. Aigis was the first, other than Ryoji, to remember the overlapping existence of Makoto and her. And as the Universe Arcana grew more powerful, Aigis's immunity towards the change of the world grew stronger as well.

"She is the observer, Makoto, the observer of my conviction. Because of her, my world preserves until today. This is the last piece tying your power in this world."

They gave each other a long stare. Finally, Makoto touched the glowing crystal.

---

Top of Tartarus

"Hamuko, are you alright?" She heard Fuuka's voice calling her.

Hamuko opened her eyes and saw that she was back at the top of the tower with the rest of her friends. Nyx Avatar seemed unmoved at the center of the platform.

"Sorry, just need to catch my breath," Hamuko answered. She turned around to see Aigis, alive and well, turning to everyone with observing eyes before making long eye contact with her. She peeked at the world around them and saw no sea drowning the world. She remembered the sea, and Hamuko knew the android was searching for Makoto.

Hamuko ignored her and checked with Fuuka, "What's the situation?"

"We dealt enough damage to her true form, but she stopped making any attack... Be on your guard though... Wait!"

However, she knew the scene that followed after it.

"She's ascending!" Yukari screamed.

Nyx Avatar left the ground and floated towards the moon. A ray of light emerged from behind her and pierced the ozone layer, then pierced the center of the moon's surface. The moon cracked, and inside it was a massive eye, glaring at the world. It didn't take them long to realize the moon was increasing in size.

"It's gonna crash on us!" Junpei shouted.

"Guys, I can't stand!" Akihiko said, kneeling on the ground.

"Such power!" Mitsuru said, feeling the gravity pushing everyone to the ground.

"What should we do?" Ken asked Fuuka.

"I don't know, she's too powerful!" Fuuka analyzed.

"Soon, it will descend on all of us..." Aigis muttered, staring at the sky. However, she immediately shifted her eyes towards Hamuko. Suddenly, a single tear left her cheek.

"Don't go..." Hamuko heard Aigis said.

Her consciousness drifted into the realm between dream.

---

Velvet Room

Standing in the chair was Igor's silhouette, but as she cleared her eyes, she noticed her view changed to another person. Instead of Igor, Elpis will be the one to forge her final Arcana. Theodore sat by her side as a loyal attendant.

"This is it, Hamuko Arisato," Elpis said. Somehow, her appearance blurred between Igor and the blond-haired girl. It didn't go unnoticed, "Fear not. Your memories with your Animus is overlapping at a rapid state. One more rank and the world will complete its purpose."

"I..." Hamuko searched around.

"Your Animus is here, but also not," Elpis spoke, "Not even Nyarlathotep himself can reach this place now. But the answer has always been here."

Hamuko opened her palm and saw the crystalized Arcana, which she had always hold from the start. Slowly, she placed it on the table in front of Elpis. The object began to spin and changed shape. Soon, it began to appear as an empty Arcana card.

Universe Arcana.

Elpis said nothing. She merely focused her attention on her. Theodore watched her face intensely, and Hamuko felt weakened with every moment. She knew what the Velvet Room's residents were waiting for. All she needed to do was speak it from the bottom of her heart. Acceptance.

"What a cruel fate," Hamuko said.

Elpis nodded, "Always is. There is no happy ending with him."

Hamuko examined the spinning Universe Arcana on the table. She watched her hand, and it was fading. She needed no mirror to see her face disappearing as well.

"Surely, I can wait until the graduating day?" She pleaded.

"Three days before the promised day for you and him," Elpis said, "The fondest memories of Makoto gave you the time you need. All it needs is this one moment." She folded her legs.

Hamuko closed her eyes and pressed her hand on her chest, and she reached out her hand towards the Arcana.

Her friends' faces, including all her social links, flashed through her mind. What remained was his face. Strangely, Aigis's face was the last on her mind.

Perhaps...

The elevator in the room stopped, and the door behind Elpis spread open.

---

Aigis

She didn't understand it. However, seeing Hamuko's sudden ascension towards the moon tugged some memories she never knew she had. Her body felt so heavy, but Hamuko kept on floating above the sky.

"Minato..." She called but stopped. It wasn't him, but she will share the same fate as the blue-haired boy. She entered Orgia mode for extra strength, but the pressure was too strong. "Hamuko-san, please. I cannot lose another person I love..."

But Hamuko had disappeared above the cloud.

---

Makoto Yuki

The Core of the Moon

The soundless world brought strange comfort to him. All screams, all pain, all agony, all desire; everything was within the scope of his vision. The planet Earth was dark in the shadow of itself, and the outline of the sun made a radiant circular around it. The last time he was here, he never had the opportunity to look back. Then, where did this vision of Earth came from? Was it from Nyx herself? Perhaps he was always aware of such vision during his time as the Great Seal?

His body was entering the massive globe, deep into the eye with the architecture of almost ancient civilization, too alien to be described into words. However, this impression was false. Moon was not a place, but a living celestial creature. How tiny he was compared to the grandness of this being.

He dived deeper and soon traced a small light at the end of it. The heart of the moon was shaped like a glowing egg, brimming pale light bright enough to show the outline of a small chamber. Tangling around the egg was weave-like claws, protecting the core, protecting the heart.

"We meet again, Nyx," Makoto said. Surprisingly, a deep, feminine voice answered.

"My seal, my suppressor, my prisoner..."

Makoto landed his feet on the flat ground, nudging his head upward at the core.

"You know who I am, who I truly am?" He said.

"I am all dreams, all nightmares, all nighttime. I know your purpose and your reason here. I am one, and I see all consciousness."

"Until I locked you away." He said, "Then you know why I was released. The Four Horsemen... There's still much I need to know."

The Core glowed slightly brighter suddenly.

"The Seven Seals are not what it seems. By nature, you will not escape your burden, and nor will the world. And yet, the one power mightier than me may do the impossible."

"Mightier than you?" Makoto narrowed his eyes, "You are a god. Collective Unconsciousness existed for you."

"Not without the power of the Creator. It predates even Kadath Mandala, the plane of God's existence within the psyche. The Archetype of Creator may do what even the Universe Arcana cannot do. But the greater the power, the heavier the sacrifice."

"...The Archetype of Creator?" Makoto mused, "Nyarlathotep said the same thing..."

"The Arcana is the means by which all is revealed... You saw Hope. She bears the answer, she holds the Arcana."

Makoto turned to his back, sensing the presence of his counterpart. Hamuko Arisato stood on the platform, watching him and Nyx conversing. She intruded them with a small leap towards him.

Odd as it was, they found nothing to talk about. They talked enough. Even without words, they knew each other's thoughts. His heart sank at the sight of light coming from inside Hamuko's right hand. But whatever choice Hamuko made, he knew it was the best for them.

They took a few steps closer and intertwined their fingers together on one hand. They used the other free hands to pull themselves closer. Hamuko was as beautiful as the day he saw her. She smiled as if reading his mind. They closed their eyes, with the heart of the moon as their witness, and embraced each other.

Their lips touched, and a long passionate kiss was etched in their mind.

Crash!

Universe Arcana Social Link:

MAX Rank

"Thou art I... I am thou...

Thou hast established an unbreakable bond, greater than any willpower...

The innermost power of Universe Arcana hath been set free...

Embrace the Universe Arcana, thy no boundary will chain thee...

Thou have attained cosmic consciousness and achieve miracle..."

A gush of power surged through him, and his eyes saw millions of things at once. He found himself with no material body, but his soul stretched as far as the power could. His eyes witnessed everything in the world, and he could hear tears and despair, waiting to be saved.

He felt Erebus approaching, even in this world.

Hamuko lightly pushed him away after the kiss. She looked satisfied this time when she smiled.

"Thank you." She said, turning her attention to Nyx. The assault began when Nyx sent out a blast.

---

Hamuko Arisato

The Core of the Moon

Hamuko Arisato VS Nyx

~Burn my Dread -Final Battle Mix~

Death- The web around the egg released another devastating attack. Hamuko stood her ground but found herself being pushed away, the same as Makoto was in his world. The boy in question was no longer in sight, but he was near, closer than she believed.

She heard cheers from her friends, the imitation of the real one, but they were real to her, more real than her mind could think. It brought a strange sense of relaxation to her to know she had the power over her own death. She would not die here.

She heard their voice. Yukari, Mitsuru, Akihiko, Junpei, Fuuka, Ken, Koromaru, and Aigis...

...And she saw, from the secluded corner of the hospital room, the voice of Shinjiro Aragaki.

And then, as if looking at a mirror staring back at her, she saw him.

"Do it..."

She smiled upon his words, tanking another attack from the core. With all her strength, she began to raise her hand, poking out her right index finger upward.

Great Seal- A bright light exploded from within her fingertip.

And the whole world trembled...

...

...

---

Elpis's Domain

"They did it."

Elpis said towards the chained figure kneeling on the ground. Multiple white chains tangled around his limbs, plus he seemed almost choked by the chains focused on his neck. Theodore watched Nyarlathotep behind her worriedly as she approached the figure.

Most of Crawling Chaos's dark eyes trailed her face intensely, though there was no anger in his face, at least not shown, seeing as he resembled no one this time, only appeared as a mold of eyes and masks. The book of Azathoth was placed neatly on the small table not far from the chained figure. The attendant had every right to be anxious. Her glass house was small and narrowed to sit, plus Nyarlathotep was too silent, as though he was planning something.

"It matters not anymore, Philemon's successor," Nyarlathotep spoke with an almost too human voice, "I will find and break that 'messiah', for I have seen proof of his possession."

Theodore narrowed his eyebrows curiously, despite numerous times she told him to avoid it. Fortunately, he was obedient, as good as Igor's lesson taught him. Philemon must have been proud.

More so, Philemon spoke the truth about his nemesis. Scheming was too natural for the Lovecraftian god, as natural as breathing. Elpis was careful in hiding anxiety and surprise, specifically the entity in front of her.

'Heavy task you entrusted to me, Philemon...' She thought, 'But I am what you made, and what you need.' Elpis focused on him, "The Archetype of the Creator belongs to the chosen two. You would not unleash it on your own."

"I have what I need in the original world, and I'll be sure to greet you when you go there," Nyarlathotep smiled, "I'm sure your guest would love to hear about your story. Am I right?"

She turned to the blue door outside her house, stood perfectly still in her small garden. Slowly, the door swung open.

---

Makoto Yuki

Most of the wounds from Armageddon R was healed when he walked into this place, though some parts were still itchy. One of his legs, however, was limping towards the house of glass.

This was the first time he was invited to Elpis's own domain, though the mistress of the house said Hamuko had been here before. When he saw through the glass wall, he was a bit dissatisfied with Elpis's reason for not purging the entity on the spot. Perhaps she couldn't, or at least that's what he told himself.

He didn't respond to Elpis's greeting when he entered the small house. His eyes fixed on Nyarlathotep's incomplete form. Did the creature just smile? He pretended not to notice.

"I should be with her," Makoto said.

"Not yet," Elpis replied, "You still have one more task for you alone. Hamuko Arisato has complete her role. Yours had just begun. Your Evoker."

Makoto raised his eyebrows and reluctantly handed her his device when she extended her hand. It was an almost compulsive reaction, like a trust he never knew he had in her. Elpis examined the Evoker for a while before, suddenly, she clenched it in both hands.

And snapped it in two.

"Wait, what are you-"

Makoto didn't manage to finish his words before the Evoker glowed in bright light. He shielded his eyes, and the glow faded shortly after. In Elpis's hand was a strange device resembling a magnum gun, but with a trace of Evoker's color on it.

"Miracle Evoker," Elpis handed the newly upgrade Evoker to him, "Now embedded with augmentation. It will lessen the power needed to summon your persona. A perfect weapon for your role in the future. Naturally, there is no need to use it directly. Willing it alone will activate it. Treat it with care; it is my only gift to you for freeing me."

Makoto examined the new Evoker with awe. It was heavier, larger, and much more comfortable in the grip. However, his eyes trailed to the Crawling Chaos.

"You sure it's safe to show this in front of him?" He asked without breaking eye contact with the creature.

"Because you are now the only one who can banish him out of this world." She said, "Locked him out of the Abyss of Time using the new Evoker."

Nyarlathotep said nothing, but he smiled mysteriously at them. Makoto nodded, finally pointing the Kadath Evoker on the Shadow Lord's head. Theodore at the back took a few steps away from them with his book open.

"Do you realize this is all your fault?" He suddenly spoke, forcing Makoto to pause his finger on the trigger, "The Seven Seal happened because of you."

He furrowed his eyebrows. Nyarlathotep laughed.

"You truly are ignorant, are you?" Nyarlathotep said, "Have you not even once wonder why Hamuko Arisato, your Anima, is capable of sentience? Have you question yourself why the Universe Arcana has the potential of creating an internal, intelligent world? Have you question your own overwhelming might and sealed away Nyx?"

Makoto paused. A mistake.

It happened in the blink of an eye. Chains around Nyarlathotep snapped free. Nyarlathotep with telekinetic force pulled his book from the table not far from him. The large book flew past Elpis, nearly hit her in the head, and reached Nyarlathotep's palm. The book opened itself.

"Azathoth Arcana-"

Nyarlathotep's speech was interrupted by the pair of hands forcefully shut close the book. With both hands bounding the book, Elpis hurriedly formed another smaller but thicker chain and wrapped it around the object. A small padlock with the shape of a butterfly was formed on the cover of the book, and a small clicking sound was heard.

Makoto and Theodore were too slow to stop the Crawling Chaos from landing a palm at the abdomen of the girl. She let out a small groan as she was thrown backward.

The invader shifted towards him, but Makoto was ready with the Miracle Evoker. Aiming the long silver barrel at the temple of Nyarlathotep, he pulled the trigger.

Crash!

In an instant, Nyarlathotep disappeared in a flash of light. The assault ended. Theodore ignored him and ran straight towards Elpis who laid on the floor, clutching the place where she was attacked.

"Mistress Elpis!" Theodore shouted in panic, crouching on the floor, and gently pulled her up by the shoulder, "Forgive me, for failing to protect you sooner!"

"No harm is done to me," Elpis replied as she returned to her feet, supported by the attendant, but she did groan weakly, "I am afraid my power has weakened in sealing the book of Azathoth. I am not complete. I need Philemon's power immediately."

The two residents turned to him, who had been remained silent for a while. He wasn't truly listening. His eyes kept focusing on the bright glow on her abdomen. She noticed his stare.

"Yes, the card protected me," Elpis revealed the content behind the place where she was attacked. There was a crack on the Contact Card.

"The card," He reached out to it, "Father Time said I need it to return home."

"Yet I see something else grabs your interest."

Elpis raised the Contact Card towards him. He gripped it and found something odd about the crack on the front surface, where the light was coming from.

Another layer under the surface?

Gently, Makoto pulled down the crack side like a sticker. The light grew brighter, but still no image underneath it.

Until he pulled free the bottom part and gasped.

The large word CONTACT at the bottom of the card was replaced with another word. Six letters as well, but...

CONTACT

C.O.N.T.A.C.T

C.C.O.R.N.E.T.A.A.T.C.O.T.R

C.R.E.A.T.O.R

CREATOR

"Creator... Is this what Nyarlathotep was looking for?"

Makoto removed the layer and exposed the word on it to Elpis and Theodore. The most stunning part was Theodore was the one who was most shocked by it.

"Impossible!" Theodore cried, "Mistress Elpis, what is the meaning of this?! I thought we came to this world for the Archetype of Creator? Did Father Time predict this?!"

"...What?" Makoto mused. What's going on here?

"Calm yourself, Theodore. That card is not the power itself, but a seal and a gate that channel the real power." Elpis patted Theodore's arm, asking him to let her stood on her own. "We have found what we are looking for. We need to leave soon."

"No," Makoto interrupted her, "I'm still asking. Why is Nyarlathotep search for this? Is this the power you told me to find in the lost memories? Elpis, I demand an answer."

The atmosphere was so tense, Theodore gulped in suspense. Makoto and Elpis didn't break eye contact, and neither would budge.

"I am going to tell you before I leave. After all, your bond with me is still intact." Elpis reminded him. She turned to Theodore, "Leave. Return to the old world. Inform Chronos instantly of my coming."

"I..." Theodore eyed her and Makoto with a suspicious look before he nodded, "Yes, mistress!"

"I do not need to remind you to avoid a fight, and to forget what you have witnessed here," She added to the attendant.

The male attendant bowed one more time before creating a portal behind him.

Silence filled the house upon Theodore's departure. Makoto awaited his answer, while Elpis seemed to be observing Makoto side to side.

"Let us complete our bond, Messiah." Elpis lent out her hand. Makoto nodded and grabbed her hand. The girl's eyes began to glow.

Crash!

"Thou art I, I am thou, thou hast fulfill thy contract and attained ultimate wisdom of this world,

The hope of the World and Universe, the hope of All dreams,

You are the anchor to the Sea of Soul, you are the answer itself,

For you are the savior, you are the Archetype of Messiah..."

He didn't sense any difference from before, although he did feel strangely at peace. When the two of them parted hands, silence once again crept into the house. Suddenly, there was a powerful sense of duty weighted upon him. It all depended on him. Elpis bore the look of someone who would give her life for his duty.

Finally, Elpis moved her lips, "Archetype of Creator... is the catalyst behind Seven Seals prophecy and the main goal of Four Horsemen."

---

Hamuko Arisato

Evening - 4/3/2010 - Iwatodai Dorm

Her heart was calm. She gave her parting words to the last social link an hour ago. There were no more regrets. She should be able to sleep well tonight. Her body felt weaker.

Nobody remembered the event of the final battle, and nobody remembered the blue-haired boy. No one except for Aigis. She didn't mind, however, for she sensed him within her always.

It was getting dark, but despite her fatigue, her mind wandered to his room. Her feet finally obeyed her, and soon she found herself opening the last door on the second floor, where his room was.

It was empty, but the desk was clean the way she made it the day before. Locking the door behind her, she walked to the desk and pulled out the chair. Finally, she folded her arms and rested her head on them.

She missed him.

The memories of the old days with him came flooding back to her. There were goods and bad, but he truly was the Animus she never knew she needed. Did the blue-haired boy share the mutual fondness for the memories?

She felt a sudden movement on the desk, as though something was pushing it. She pulled away, observing the desk. The single drawer contained nothing, but her eyes quickly noticed the fake bottom.

There was a book underneath. Despite without name, her instinct knew whom the diary belonged to.

Bringing it to the bed, she gently opened the first page.

She smiled. It was everything he wrote about her, and her action the past year.

As she flipped to later pages, her name stood out more and more. At first vague, her description, her words, her actions; everything suddenly was full of details. The blue-haired boy was a greater man than anyone will understand. He knew Hamuko's fate, he knew the death of everyone he couldn't save in his world, he knew he will leave this world forever.

And yet he moves forward still.

And he said it's all because of her.

"Hmmm?"

On the last written page, she saw one entry, written like a letter, to her:

"My dear Anima,

If you're reading this, it means I have complete my mission in this world and awaits you at our promised place. This diary is my memento to myself, and perhaps to you, ironically. I leave it here, knowing you will stumble upon this diary one day.

First of all, I'm sorry.

Two years ago, I sealed Nyx and became the barrier that separated the goddess of night and Erebus, the embodiment of humanity's grief and secret wish for death. Unless I keep the Great Seal intact, Erebus will always return to reach Nyx.

That's how you came to be. You are my source of endless willpower in flesh, though I was oblivious to it. Thus, I kept you in the dark for two years, until Elpis gave you sentience to form this world from my memories.

That was not the end of it, unfortunately. After the final battle with Nyx, Elpis revealed the truth to me.

You and I were involved in prophecy more powerful than anything ever created by god. This all began because of one more power I never knew sealed within me in my childhood. It was originally within 'Death', but then it passed to me for having greater consciousness. And I subconsciously used it to forge a miracle: Universe Arcana, the Arcana that was never seen before.

This second power that gave birth to this special Arcana is what Elpis dubbed the Archetype of Creator. It was because of this power that you were born. It was because of this power, I was sent here. We were pawns to the Seven Seals prophecy the moment I became the Great Seal.

The Archetype of Creator is the power of creation itself. By itself, it was like a stack of pages and words jumbled together in mountains. But to use the full potential of Archetype of Creator, it needs to be used in a pair to bind them like a book.

A pair of a perfect man and woman's psyches.

Philemon, the wise old guide of humanity, called this pair... Prime Anima and Animus, as in the prime form of Anima and Animus psyche. Only they can use the Archetype of Creator to its full potential.

When I used this power two years ago, I used it alone, without a pair. Since the power can't be unleashed fully without Anima, it formed a female counterpart to complete the creation of Universe Arcana.

That's you, my Anima. The archetype of Creator created a personal Anima to help me create the Universe Arcana.

For that, I'm sorry. I truly am.

But I want you to know I didn't regret your existence. Even though I know you and I will never be together, I was happy. I'm glad to meet you, my Anima.

From your Animus"

Hamuko closed the book. She said nothing but hugged the diary tightly, trying so hard not to cry. The day was ending.

---

Early Morning - 5/3/2010 - Iwatodai Dorm

Hamuko opened the door to the knock on her door. Somehow, she knew the only person to greet her this morning was her.

"Good Morning, Hamuko-san," Aigis said as she entered the room, "Thank goodness you here. Today is Graduation Day. I want to speak to you before we go to school."

Hamuko said nothing but smiled as she continued.

"I... I remembered everything," Aigis confessed, "After the final battle, I was so scared that you will go away. I'm glad to see you still here."

Hamuko nodded, "Let's go to school, Aigis. Everyone promised."

"Yes, let us go," Aigis agreed.

---

Tatsumi Hospital

Chidori Yoshino watched the bed where she slept for months. Her white dress, newly brought by the Kirijo, fit her size perfectly. She wasn't impressed by it, but Junpei Iori, her soon to be roommates, praised it to death.

"A cab will be ready for you," the doctor attending her outfit said, handing a suitcase to her.

"Where will I go?" She asked.

"The Kirijo ordered your presence at the school. She will be graduating today," The doctor answered, pointing at the windows, "You are allowed to take the flowers home if you wish."

"Leave it," She shook her head, watching the flower pots arranged near the window frame, "I don't need it anymore."

The doctor chuckled satisfactorily, "Well, Yoshino-san, what will you do now that you're finally leaving this place?"

"That's none of your business," Chidori replied, annoyed by his persistence.

"You better hurry, young lady. The graduation is starting soon," The doctor perked up suddenly, "I almost forgot. One of your friends' colleagues, I heard, left earlier today for the school."

---

Gekkoukan High

She never expected another person to wait for her at the school gates. Aigis was too overjoyed to see the man leaning by the school gate until she voiced no words.

"Shinjiro-san..." Hamuko said.

Shinjiro Aragaki, dressed in a familiar red coat and beanie hat, smiled. at the two figures. "Where were you, idiot? You had me running all the way from the hospital."

"Good to see you again," Hamuko said.

"Hamuko-san..." Aigis muttered. Hamuko chuckled.

"I know," She responded, turning to her, "But I can't bring you either."

"I understand," The girl nodded, "Someone is already waiting for you."

Shinjiro grumped at her statement, but Hamuko nodded.

"Shinjiro-san, thank you for everything," She grabbed his hands, "But I must go alone. I have to. I made a promise to someone. He was important, and he helped me so much during my time here. You might not know him, but he saved you too."

"I see... Tch," Shinjiro looked away with his face reddened, "I'll be waiting at the staircase though. Once I meet with the others, you better stay awake when I get there."

Hamuko smiled. She looked at her friend one last time and made her way to the rooftop. If she looked back one more time, she might burst into tears.

---

Rooftop

She hesitated to push open the door to the rooftop, feeling her sweaty fingers trembling. She knew who was waiting for her behind this door. Why was this so hard now?

Her connection with the blue-haired boy was still strong. She sensed him standing by the bench, waiting for her to enter. He was equally worried and afraid. But he stood there, waiting for her.

Taking a deep breath, with her eyes growing weaker, she pushed the door into the rooftop.

The boy watched her with the most beautiful smile she had ever seen. She returned the smile, noticing the identical ring Ryoji gave to both him and her months ago. Taking a weak step, she approached the figure.

There was nothing left to say. All she need was to finish this. She felt her body weakened, and the boy's arms grabbed her before she fell. They decided to rest on the bench, with her head rested on the boy's lap.

The spring was so eye-catching. She never thought this world was so beautiful. This must be what the boy saw in his last visions. Her smile broadened, and her eyes grew heavier.

The boy's face was so close to her. She lifted her arm and stroke his face. He caressed her hand in return with gentleness. Her eyes grew heavier, and she knew her time was almost up.

She examined the boy's face. Bringing strength to her vocal, she said.

"Makoto, do you love me?"

The boy didn't answer at first. Slowly, he answered.

"My true name is Minato Arisato. I am your Animus, and I love you as much as a man could love his Anima."

She smiled, and the last of her energy was gone. She finally closed her eyes.

---

Minato Arisato

She was not breathing.

It would be much more accurate to say the time had stopped. He rested Hamuko's head on the bench and walked to the balcony's fence. The whole world froze in time as if death came suddenly to kill the world. There was nothing else beyond this point. Everything is dead.

It's over.

Minato took out the Card titled the Creator and saw it pulsing with power. The light within it didn't burn his fingers anymore, though he doubted the power accept him. He needs to return home with this power secured, and he had no one else to rely on but himself.

The world stopped because his memories stopped here. And yet the Seven Seals prophecy brought him back from the grave. Will it bring back Hamuko?

Will he live through the prophecy himself? A thought came to him. It was only a moment, but he felt the stretch of it like an eternity.

Cosmic Consciousness. What a powerful conscious dominating his mind. But he let it be because he felt like he saw something.

An idea.

A decision risking all worlds.

An act of mad messiah.

Slowly, Minato raised the Creator Card high in the air and called out to the entity in the deepest part of the collective unconsciousness.

"Nyx, heed my call."

There was no answer, but he continued.

"I offered you an alternative," He lifted the card as high as he could towards the sky, "I give you my word I will save you at the breaking of the last seal. I promised I'll return to the Great Seal."

The sky, bright and blue, suddenly turned cloudy, like an incoming storm. Behind the cloud, the hidden moon revealed itself to him. Soon, he heard a loud crumbling sound around the world. He saw the cities beyond the horizon disappeared, swallowed by nothingness.

Nyx was listening.

"All worlds are your dream, as all nightmares are Azathoth's dream," He recited, "All I want is you make this world part of your dream. You can use my power."

Minato took out his Miracle Evoker and placed the barrel on his temple. With the Universe Arcana at its full power, Igor claimed that nothing is outside the realm of impossibility. If this power can create a barrier suppressing even the goddess of night, surely this power can create an alternate universe?

This also results in Hamuko stopped being his Anima. All their affections will blink away, perhaps even memories.

Minato turned to the sleeping figure on the bench. This relationship was never meant to be. It was painful, but he must let go. Yes, he made his resolve.

"I have to thank the Four Horsemen," Minato smiled, almost victoriously, "If Hamuko, the Great Seal, share my fate, then won't it make sense if she was resurrected as well?"

It will take a miracle for all of it to happen. However...

"I am the messiah," Minato smiled to himself, "I am the miracle..."

He pulled the trigger.

---

Morning - 5/3/2010 - Yasoinaba

"We did it, Yukiko!" Chie laughed joyfully upon leaving the school ground, "We're high schooler this year!"

"Not yet, Chie," Yukiko shook her head, "The new terms start next month."

"I hope we'll be in the same class!" Chie hugged Yukiko, much to her embarrassment. The graduation ceremony in Inaba wasn't as grand as the city but was memorable. Parents and students flocked into the school. She knew her next studies location will be, though. Inaba had only one high school.

"Hey, let's eat steak!" Chie suggested it, again, "I know a great place to eat!"

"Sorry, Chie," Yukiko hurriedly raised her hand. Chie's face dropped.

"Work again?"

"Like always."

"Fine..." Chie pushed both hands into her jacket and pouted her cheeks, "But promised you'll play with me before the school's start."

"Promise."

Yukiko immediately felt guilty for lying to her best friend as Chie left the place. To tell the truth, she had no idea when she will have spare time. But she hoped she will soon.

She ran away once she left the school's gate. Kasai, her handmaiden, will insist she took the car home in front of everyone. It's hard being the daughter of the most popular inn in Inaba, it's harder to pretend she's fine with it.

Taking a long way home, she used the path of the shopping district, hoping she didn't run into Chie. She passed by the abandoned shrine on her left.

She saw someone, a stranger she swore she had seen somewhere before, but unsure where.

She had long blonde hair, a dress made of dark silk, and black glass twitching on it. Clipping on her hairs were flower clips with many colors. Based on her height, she must be a high school student.

Before she could converse with her, the girl ran up the stairs towards the abandoned shrine. There was no need for her to concern herself with a stranger, but her feelings tugged her strongly. She needed to meet this girl because something told her she will regret it.

Reaching the top of the stairs, Yukiko saw the girl standing in front of a shrine box, facing the shrine.

"Umm... hello?" Yukiko voiced out. Slowly, the stranger turned to face her.

"Yukiko Amagi," The stranger spoke, startling her.

"Y-Yes?"

"I said you will be an important person one day. That day is today, in this world," The stranger approached her at a fast pace. Yukiko backed away in panic.

"W-What are you-"

Before she could finish her sentence, the stranger placed one finger on her forehead and the world turned black.

---

Shrine, Inaba

With the girl under control, Elpis held the head of Yukiko Amagi with one hand. The bridge between this world and the real world formed itself within Yukiko's mind.

"Pardon me, but your close relationship with Rei as shown from Messiah's lost memories made you vital," Elpis said, watching the hypnotized girl, "I will borrow your memories for a while, my dear..."

She cupped the girl's head in her hand, and she put power in it.

"Yuki-nee... Yuki-nee..." She repeated, slightly altered her voice to sound more childish, "I am Rei, remember me? We met at the cultural festival at your school. You were always close to me..."

"...Y-Yes..." With her eyes half opened, Yukiko responded, "I... remembered..."

"Thank you, Yuki-nee..." She said, "Now, remembered me, as clearly as you can..."

"...Rei-chan? Why are you... here?" Yukiko said, touching her face, "What memories are these?"

The path was clearing up. It was then she heard a loud screeching sound from one direction. True enough, the sky began to crack. The ground around them cracked like broken glass. The world was ending.

The way the moon forced the power upon the land, and the Messiah opposed the power towards the moon's direction, Elpis could see the shattered cracks forming a shape around that location.

It was shaped like an hourglass.

The Messiah had done it, just as she predicted long ago. Another line in the prophecy is fulfilled.

"Reflect in the hourglass the twin butterfly"

And she knew the messiah will summon his 'twin' counterpart.

With a single breath, her eyes glowed, calling towards the memories inside Yukiko's head.

"Pheme, do you hear me?" Elpis called, "Open the path. I am ready to return to the real world. Force out the persona of Yukiko Amagi."

She released her hands from the girl's head. A round portal, resembling a galaxy, suddenly appeared in front of dazed Yukiko. She turned in the direction of where the messiah was.

"We will meet again, soon," Elpis stated. She entered the portal, just as the world ended.

Just as split seconds later, the world was reborn anew, joining the infinite parallel world.

[PROGRAMMING COMPLETE. EXIT WORLD.]

---

Minato Arisato

Morning - 7/12/2012(Friday) - Abyss of Time, Original World
(Friday of Strife)

Minato Arisato opened his eyes and found himself in a big blue pond, surrounded by sandy boundless landscape, though it might be an illusion, seeing as there was a large door facing his feet.

There was a small cuff formally locked to his wrists, but it had been snapped open by force. There was a large machine to his right, with many wires dunked into the pond where he slept. However, the machine itself was producing smokes, and he saw some parts were smashed violently.

He raised his torso with much difficulty, seeing himself dressed in a white garment with a trace of dirty smokes. In fact, the entire area seemed like an aftermath of a battlefield.

It took him a while to notice two battle-worn figures resting their back on the machine. One he recognized as Theodore, but he had never seen the second man with a blindfold before.

"...Ah! Minato-sama!" Theodore lifted his head and perked up, rubbing the shoulder of the blindfolded man, "Nameless, he's awake!"

"Awake? Good..." The man called Nameless said, lifting his arm weakly, "Hello, Messiah. I have been guarding you ever since the release of the Second Seal."

"What... happened?" He asked, but found his voice too weak. Theodore, who crawled to his side, heard him loud enough.

"You pushed Nyarlathotep out of your world, but Nameless still had to deal with him alone here until I arrived," The male attendant answered, "I can't fight directly, unfortunately with my wounds, but I do provide support. Are you alright? Are you hurting anywhere? Thirsty? Hungry? Need a bathroom?"

What was it he need? He almost forgot, like a vividness of dream slowly slipping away once waking up.

Yes. Her. Somehow, he couldn't remember much about the memories together with that girl. But he swore he will never forget her.

"Theodore..." He forced the voice out of his throat, "Find Aigis..."

"Aigis?" Theodore furrowed his eyebrows, "She is not in this island at the moment, but-"

"I need to see her, fast..." He begged, cutting Theodore's off, "I need to bring that girl here..."

---

Hamuko Arisato

Great Seal

Hamuko surveyed the white space around her in confusion. She glanced at her hand and saw her Gekkoukan uniform was still the way it was when she died.

Was this the Great Seal?

How is she still alive?

"Hello, there."

She turned to the voice cautiously, only to see a strange girl with short, ashen hair seemly dancing around the space. At the first glance of her attire, Hamuko immediately recognized the uniform.

"You're from the Velvet Room..." Hamuko said. The strange girl stopped her dance and faced her.

"Correct!" She made a finger gun and pointed it at her, mimicking a shooting sound. Soon, the strange girl was smirking rather maliciously at her as she circled her with attentive eyes.

"What is it?"

"Hmm... You don't look like him at all," She finally confessed, "Tell me something. Does it feel odd to kiss your alternate male self?"

"Huh?" She widened her eyes, "What are you talking about-"

"Does it make your heart throbbing?" She quickly added another question, "Or something that made you feel narcissistic?"

"I..." She paused. She was in love with someone. A boy. And yet, she couldn't recall anything about him; only his face and his name, despite being the last person she saw before she died.

Who was it? Who was Minato Arisato? Her counterpart?

"I don't know..." She confessed, "He's someone important to me, but... something's missing..."

"Interesting... Hehe..." She giggled, "Well, don't get your hopes up. I'll let you 'borrow' him, but Minato Arisato is mine, remember that."

She observed the girl again and realized she had seen her before. "Who are you?"

"I'm sure you will hear of me soon," the girl answered, "But you may call me Elizabeth."

"Elizabeth..." Hamuko nodded, "Pleasure to meet you."

The girl's smile faded as she sighed, "Hah... I was planning on replacing him as the seal. But now that he used up the Universe Arcana to materialize your world into existence, he had to start from zero. I really hope he won't make that stupid decision, but alas that is the man I love."

She widened her eyes, baffled at that statement. However, something about her words made sense to her. Something... that she and that boy succeeded.

"Thinking of something funny, do we?" Elizabeth said. Only then Hamuko noted her own smirking face. Elizabeth made a quick spin around the area, "Oh, well. I won't be lonely for a while. Come, dance with me."

"Hahaha... No thanks," Hamuko waved her hands in rejection, "Can I ask you something? How did you know so much about me and this... boy?"

"I was told by my master. I told him I offered myself to set Minato free months ago, thus he told me the future event as foreseen in the prophecy," Elizabeth made a dance similar to a zombie, "No rush, now. We have so much time to talk. Dance with me. You'll be out soon. He'll do it for you."

"What else did he need from me? *chuckle*" Hamuko asked, suppressing her laugh at the girl's dance.

Elizabeth grinned, making a quick spin, and stopped in front of her. Her finger pointed at Hamuko's forehead, "You'll see."

Paradox Arc - End

---

A/N: Paradox arc ended! Finally, after years! I have been enjoying this chapter so much, it took me a while to prepare it. Merry Christmas, everyone. Sorry for the late update. I've been extremely busy these days.

Where should I start? Yes, Minato basically uses up his power to fully materialize a true alternate reality to make Hamuko exist. With the Universe Arcana fully used up for Hamuko's world, Minato seemly had a plan to use... Aigis?

And thus, this relationship between Minato and Hamuko came to an end. This tragic couple is in a way a display of Anima and Animus's psyche, and how they successfully ascended their mind beyond simple Anima and Animus. But maybe they can be together again in the later story, unchained by the instinct of their psyche?

The secret of the Archetype of Creator and Prime Anima and Animus will be widely explored in the next arc.

What is Elpis planning? What makes the Archetype of Creator so important to the prophecy?

And thus, starting next year, we will enter a new arc for the next chapter: 'Strife' Arc.

Not sure when I'll be able to update the next chapter, but I hope you all enjoy the new year, days from now, just as I am.