Turn 4: Wiping All Out


"Rationale seperates a beast from a monster, humans have such a monopoly."


The aftermath of the previous battle was scattered with gunshots and bolts, the corpses of the Reunion members that were slain were set on fire as the risk of the Infected dissipating and rotting into more Originium upon death is a constant fear in these types of encounters. Cremation was the best way to respect their resolve in order to make sure that no one would suffer the same fate as them. the ice that coated the vicinity slowly disappeared along with the frost that it produced.

Returning to where the Doctor is located, we can see arrows scattered against the breeze of chilly air. Suddenly a sharp pain radiates throughout his relatively small body; his stature was average but minuscule compared to the monoliths of men he worked with. Was it from his overuse of Personas? He does not have enough items to replenish himself after all and adding to the fact that he used the last of his strength even with Amiya's warning out of emotion.

Then liquid trickled down his body.

Ah…he was bleeding everywhere as well; he didn't even notice after that battle; was he really supposed to come out of that fight unscathed when he used himself as a human shield on multiple occasions. Unexpectedly from a Reunion member's last breath he aimed an arrow at Hibiscus, and expecting it to be her end, the arrow just went missing, now they know where that bolt ended up in.

He had other tactics but that would result in sacrifice and god knows he hated that word. His head flared up every time he taught of a strategy with casualties.
To add to the fact that none of the contingency strategies they developed wouldn't work especially since the enemy is fighting disorganized so they couldn't exploit a chain of command. To think that what is essentially a mob would give Rhodes Island a lot of trouble.

His head felt heavy and his joints finally caught up to his exhausted body, no one even noticed that he is showing signs of exhaustion as they were busy tending to more visibly wounded Operators.

"Huh…" His eyes blurred a misty blue and suddenly tremors in his head sprouted, with no choice his body gave out and shutdown.

The last thing he could heard was yells of panic as he dropped down to sleep.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

It's been a while since he had been in the Velvet Room, they couldn't even manifest their gateways on the Ark so they had to resort to the app and the blessings they have given are either defective or inferior to what past guests obtained, sacrificing its quality for more coverage of the guest's needs.

He came to the realization that he was sitting in front of Igor again, even in the ethereal world his body is dazed beyond the mortal coil. At least in his dazed state he can make out what he was saying.

There are many ways to have your true self realized…
You may have to play a game, have the strength to see through the rumors that elude reality…
Maybe you have to accept your life's end or face your true self.
Or better yet, awaken to the to the realization of having strength to face injustice.

It is a blessing or a curse for him to experience such pain and be a better man as a result? Or is the pain too much to bear?

To those who are weak however? Then they shall be consumed by their own darkness.

Ah yes, that was what Master said to us before they disappeared once more after being a witness to the Trickster's talents.

That last part of what Igor's master had said struck a chord in him so much, so he was brought back from his dizziness.

"Darkness?" Does he mean those Shadows he was talking about? He has yet to fight a Shadow but hearing the things about them made him unexcited for his inevitable encounter with them.

"We're glad to see you are awake Doctor." Sherry said as she was sitting on the couch of the office, he was going to ask on how long was he out but quickly remembered on how time does not matter here.

"Indeed, it's strange that even in this realm you can feel exhaustion." Igor added his two cents,
"However we better answer any questions you have before you wake up."

The Guest decided to inquire more about these Shadows they been hinting at since his first day at Lungmen, they have yet to manifest in his world after all. However that feeling he got off from Skullshatterer…could it be? The commander felt like they could just snap just by looking at Rhodes, at first it felt like malice but is there a chance it could be something else?

"That is the most curious thing in fact, your existence already is proof of Shadows existing." Indeed, he already said in a previous conversation that Personas and Shadows are the same power. "It is just conjecture however, if a person who refuses to accept the same voice that called out your Persona what do you think will happen?"

Ah yes…Ophiuchus' voice when he first called out his power; he must wonder what would happen if he refused his call? Can he though? Every word he made had a point how could he deny the truth in front of him when said truth is also trying to kill him and his allies. It must take such a sense of helplessness and resignation to not take the first step.

"I believe that answer will come to light after today my guest, until then we will dedicate ourselves to better support your journey."

Those words are the last thing he heard after his vision blurred once more and with he is unceremoniously thrust back to the world of the living.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The Doctor woke up to see the lights of Lungmen, it must have been in the evening ever since he dozed off, looking around he found himself resting in a stretcher bed. He was waking from his exhaustion, a combination of physical and spiritual over-exertion must have been the reason he slept. His health, he realized was at one point after he commanded Ophiuchus to shoot ice, the form of his Persona barely even visible because after that cast he can feel his consciousness slipping away. After Amiya's scolding he felt the drawbacks of his power come through not like the several wounds he gained from that last battle were a factor.

However he can sense that half of his power has returned to him, but is it enough? Misha is still…

"Doctor, you're awake!" Amiya was the first one to talk to him, was she watching over him after all this time? He stared at her cerulean orbs and wondered what that hazy dream meant; he looked through a pair of red eyes who is that? He focused his slumbering gaze at it, as if he was waiting for it to give him answers.

He quickly returned to reality as the red visage blinked, it seems that Ch'en was also watching over his unconscious body as well and by the looks of it they were talking about something before his awakening, knowing the situation it must have been about Misha.

"Amiya…How did I?" The Doctor rasped while trying to sit on his stretcher instead of laying on it.

"Madame Ch'en and I carried you to the medical base they've set up in the streets." Amiya brightly smiled. He collapsed shortly after driving Skullshatterer's forces; that only left the dregs of their chain of command.

"Oh…I'm sorry to trouble you two." Guilt spread across his face, they have to cover for his weakness.

Ch'en scoffed and then said, "You're almost the same height as me Doctor, besides you have been working hard while we were…" She trailed off almost as if she was ashamed of her contributions of the mission. That last remark was more aimed at herself than an acknowledgement of his hard work.

"Oh, is Madame Ch'en complimenting the Doctor." The Cautus girl's ears shake as she said that in a teasing way.

"No, I just want to give credit where credit is due." The two knew Ch'en's true feelings of the matter; hanging out with her during their downtime certainly shows a different side of the uptight Lung.

The Doctor was concerned for the outside however; for Ch'en to go out of her way and watch over him and even carry him "I'm flattered, but are you sure? Your squad is struggling out there…"

"I wouldn't be their leader if I trained them to be incompetent now would I?" Ch'en rhetorically asked him as she readies to go to her own part; she wanted to reassure the strength of her comrades to herself as well. Having relinquished what she knows to the Cautus while he was asleep, she won't tolerate failure now.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The combined might of Rhodes and the LGD made quick of the stragglers that remain as such all forces were preparing to partake in their specific missions, according to what Amiya said… the LGD, mainly Ch'en, ordered Rhodes to neutralize Reunion's ambushes. The Doctor protested that they need to help in finding Misha, and by them, he means him, the one who can do recon with his Persona.

"Don't be reckless Doctor." Amiya whispered, "We can't reveal your power to the LGD yet."

The Doctor clicked his tongue, she has a point after all he was deliberately hiding his power even to Ch'en especially Ophiuchus, he can get away with Hellhound as Reunion also has Hounds as units but still…

"Let's leave it to Ch'en." He heeded Amiya's command, Ch'en is a professional after all and she is one of his associates it's just that he so worried for Misha even if W was with her. The Sarkaz woman can be a nutcase sometimes…

The only thing he can do now is review the information he had so far, and the battle that occurred during his absence.

Apparently, they were already fighting off Reunion while the Doctor was sleeping for about fifteen minutes. Small time for sure but to a battlefield it was an eternity he honestly felt guilty that Ch'en and Amiya had to watch over him while the rest were fighting the good fight. Luckily no one on their side had died in his absence they must have been following some of the strategies he left while he was gone.

A directive Kal'tsit issued in the event the Doctor was incapacitated.

In order to advance with their objective of stopping sneak attacks they deployed multiple surveillance drones, to compensate for the absence of the Doctor's absurd reconnaissance range, and discovered nests of Reunion soldiers that are near to places of potential conflict, Knowing all that, it was all Rhodes needed to attack them, some of them eager to fight because of the Doctor's condition, Reunion wanted war so they got it.

Even while he was half as effective in combat the Doctor was delegated to tactician duty. Amiya forbid him to participate in battle and his garrison also encouraged the Doctor to rest; he was still recovering after all not to mention that his skill-set is worthless in this open area. He couldn't even anticipate enemy ambushes using his Third Eye, why?

It was because the ability was imperfect.
Igor saw the usefulness of that power with a former guest of the Velvet Room, however it was a gift from a different deity as such replicating it would come with defects. Luckily the ability to use Personas as eyes from afar was a suitable replacement for the Doctor's war-torn world, an ability that was useless compared to the Third Eye's real power; nonetheless it makes the Persona essentially his floating third eye thus making it somewhat of a suitable replacement, since even though Persona-users can do that to an extent his range has an extra fifty meters compared to the average Persona-user. However the best he can do with his watered-down version is document filing.

However, is now the time to do reconnaissance?

The Doctor sighed as he just has to watch the battle with a Guard, well guarding him. It was Melantha who was delighted to protect him after he gave it his all to make sure the brash assault from earlier wouldn't kill anyone. As he is, he fears that even with his strategic talent although having no memory, is that sheer power can undermine his tactics. That encounter with Talulah was a wake-up call after he just woke up.

Occasionally, he adjusts his strategies to make sure no one gets badly injuredhe initiated an operator to deploy at point 4B, Ansel would have been defenseless if Yato hadn't went into that position.

It seems that his power wasn't needed however as his strategies where more than enough even without him in the equation. He sighed in relief over his communication device, even though it was like weeks since the Doctor's return the Operators picked up that sigh as a sign of worry.

"No offense Doc, but you're such a worrywart." Noir Corne teased through the comms and the rest of the squad chuckled, the Doctor can't help but join them.

He really does worry a lot about them, The Doctor can't help it even though he knows they are strong enough that his strategies alone are enough for them. One of the reasons why he chose to participate in the frontlines was because he felt dirty just commanding them. Hell, the first time he saw a chessboard he was terrified and broke the board with his fist.

At least now he can play the game without punching the board to splinters.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

"Damn it, not this batch…" Ch'en growled out, she felt like this wasn't enough. Even though she didn't vocalize it she felt awful about everything; being negligent with Misha and underestimating Reunion led to the girl being taken and possibly endangering her home and the Ursus girl, along with forcing the Doctor to pull out all his inexperience out of his system to ensure the survival of his squad, she saw Rhodes's report after all, Rhodes would have severely injured if not have casualties if he didn't push through, greenhorn he may be she had to give credit to his will.

What did he have to show for it though? He was unconscious when Rhodes and the LGD rendezvous with each other, she caught him mid-fall and his body was riddled with injuries and puncture wounds. Again, based on the reports they didn't even notice that the Doctor was injured after the battle because he fought with such fervor that one couldn't be blamed that they thought he was in top-condition, that and they also were slightly off fighting battle after battle while the LGD were defeated by one person. The Medic who gave that report clenched her fist in disappointment, a feeling that she can relate to right now.

How did it come to this? Amiya said that Skullbreaker, or whatever that bastard's name is, insulted Rhodes' integrity and called them words that Rhodes would associate with Reunion, afterwards the Doctor ordered everyone and fought with them at the same time his body moving desperately to defeat them as he realized something.

"He must have realized that Misha was taken…" Amiya whimpered looking at the Doctor's body with regret.

They fought the force of the enemy while the LGD had was neutralized by one person…the thought of that still shakes her. While she wouldn't admit it she was pissed that her friends, especially her gaming friends were hurt by these lowlifes who claim to be all about the Infected's rights.

The Doctor's beaten body was more than enough motivation to take Reunion even more seriously than she already had. The man was a greenhorn in combat but she can sense power emanating from him, his inexperience is the only reason why he can't keep it hidden. In her opinion his strategies are more than enough so she can't understand why he participates in fights until now.

The reason is naïve but a sentiment she can understand, a reckless fool to another.

"They retreated quickly…" It appears that way; the only enemies left were truly the bottom of the rung, how many groups have been neutralized Ch'en wonders. Three, Four, Five? It was quick but why does this simple operation felt so draining?

"One person holding off an entire reinforcement…" The LGD are not slouches that much is clear to Ch'en but even so a single person, and by the distraught looks of her men it was a slaughter if not of life but of pride.

She felt eager and anxious at the same time, this was a small operation but even so there was a possible that it's her right? The importance of the Ursus girl and the lengths Reunion went to retrieve her; it would only make sense that it's her who defeated her men. However why does the possibility fill her with dread?

"Officer Ch'en over here!" The Lung was brought back to reality as they saw another group of Reunion, her earlier rage diminished in her introspection. She focused her will, regardless of her friends' well-being she still has a duty to fulfill. These bastards decided to let out their unsightly presences in her home and she cannot let that stand.

They quickly moved a different way in order to catch their foes off guard, with a signal or two they attacked.

"Officer Ch'en, ambush!" Crashing glass scattered towards the urban battlefield and they quickly rid of the enemy's vanguard.

"Die!" An LGD member roared in a war cry, his rage empowering his weapon and killing the Reunion Soldier.

The Guard adjusted their formation, their own adrenaline fueled anger from the heat of battle empowering them. This is how the LGD fights against the Infected, with extreme prejudice.

A Reunion soldier quickly attacked Ch'en with a weak strike but she was even faster, blocking it and disarming the weakling before her.

"Don't piss me off!" She howled, needing some release from her stress and rage. She slashed her foe in the chest and he fell instantly, then the dragon girl glared her red eyes at the rest of the ilk intimidating them as they slightly hesitated in holding their weapons.

"Do you think that Lungmen is a place that tolerates your atrocities!?" She asked rhetorically to their victims, they weren't enemies in her eyes, an enemy would be a challenge and as far she is concerned…
"Guard Department, Attack!"

They weren't a challenge.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

"You colossal imbecile!" It was heard through the whole of Rhodes' communication and they looked at the voice's target of ire.

The Doctor.

Amiya warned him, and she delivered on her promise as such when word reached the lynx's ears…
She was livid, rightfully so especially since this Doctor was the epitome of sunshine at Rhodes easily ensnaring everyone's hearts with his kindness and understanding. Although they quickly knew one flaw this seemingly good-hearted amnesiac has.

He was extremely reckless to a fault.

Not even two days after his return, he did everything without sleep, from understanding the Ark's infrastructure to spending all night reading all he can about his former self's talents and abilities in order to somewhat regain them, the other doctor withholding harmful information for obvious reasons.

Dr. Kal'tsit was asleep while the Fool was awake, and everyone knew that the woman barely had any shut-eye herself. She can't even be mad at him when he explained why he was going all-out on his body even after leaving cryostasis. He may be extremely different from the Doctor she knew but god damn are they both morons. Excluding the fact that he was always dragged around by Closure in order to test that device on his wrist, the fact that even she with Monst3r's support has difficulty with the physics of the infernal thing while the Doctor can recreate the feats of Arachnodude goes to show the power of Persona.

Even still…

"That does give you an excuse to be so careless…" Kal'tsit shouted like a mother to a child, "At the very least have the Medics heal you from time to time, I allowed you to go into battle to obtain much needed experience but don't forget that you also have the talent of strategy."

"Is that clear?"

The Doctor gulped, she really was laying it on her, "Crystal, Dr. Kal'tsit."

"Normally, I would be even angrier at you; however…" As soon as she said that a robot appeared on the scene, "Closure authorized it and Lancet-3 is deployed as your personal Medic while you regain your strength." It was reassuring for her to hear that Closure allowed deployment since a crucial mistake on her part is they underestimated how many Medics did Amiya and the Doctor need for the mission.

Lancet-3's nozzle fired healing energy at the Doctor, while he could just use Dia he didn't want to waste anymore SP he had, that half-ass slumber gave him a half-ass recovery.

"You'll find there that the Sanity Potions we've developed days ago were finally synthesized." Kal'tsit then instructed the Doctor to open Lancet-3's compartment and took out various goods, Sanity Potions, Healing Syringes, and using the resources the Doctor procured from his power, Tarukazine and Rakukazine.

In there was also the weapon he commissioned from Vulcan, metals and crystals obtained from Soul Foraging, it shined an amber glow and he smiled as he was fascinated by her work, there was a crystal embedded in the pommel as well; he can feel the weapon increasing his Persona's magical potency.

He must wonder if Personas are also figment of cognition does the world seeing it as ARTS affect them as well.

"Please let this be the last call I have to make in anger Doctor." It was more of a command than a plea from the woman to all those who were listening and there were a lot of them as the conversation wasn't exactly hard to hear.

The Doctor nodded slightly guilty as he noticed the slight hoarseness in her voice, she wasn't taking a break it seems. "I understand but at the very least stay hydrated Dr. Kal'tsit."

The workaholic grunted in acknowledgment as she cut off the communication. The Doctor on the other hand was just glad that Kal'tsit even though she scolds him often, it shows how much she cares in his mind. Although that feeling of a boundary is something he can't shake off, just to what extent does she trust him he wonders.

Ah, but now is not the time to worry about that, that could be something he would find out after they get Misha on the Ark, after all they were already finished on their end so the only thing they have left is to contact with Ch'en again and compare notes.

Because… they really are in dire need of some directions.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The meeting spot was a far cry from the slums area from before, there were lush trees and rock formations that exude a Zen-like trance to those in its vicinity. A perfect area to strategize in the Doctor's opinion.

At least it would have been if there weren't any fires in the area…

"Officer!" A Guard member called out and Ch'en allowed him to speak, "The main Reunion force has already retreated." That was a relief to all of them, they can finally take a breather.

Ch'en was then alerted by Rhodes Island's presence with the Doctor looking a bit better and with a new weapon sheathed on his person.

"Hey Officer, early huh?" The Doctor cheekily said as Ansel treated his scrapes with alcohol to stop infection, he winced in pain as even though he was treated earlier there were still some injuries left.

"Officer Ch'en we're already done on our side." Amiya notified and the Lung nodded in approval.

The Lung officer was deep in thought, what is going on in the interrogation room? They need every bit of information they can squeeze out from them right now. Reunion's leadership and chain of command, their strategies and equipment and most importantly the identity of the members themselves.

… In a dimly lit room there was a Reunion soldier in restraints, before he was a part of the extremist activist group, he was just Tim, a mechanic with two children. His wife died of natural causes, not Oripathy mind you, that disease was far from natural, no it was just a hereditary heart attack. Back then he had a rival in romance and when said rival heard about his wife's passing, he decided that proper retribution was to make him ingest that accursed piece of rock. He won his beloved's heart with passion and kindness but his rival had wealth, it protected the bastard from being imprisoned from assault; then again it did not matter either way, he was an Infected not even reason or the court of law will expel his sin of existing. The bastard was not aware of the condition his wife had, so he blamed her death on Tim's negligence; any and all reasoning does not work on a man in grief.

Adding to that, his kids abandoned him when he was now an Infected. Yes, they'd rather be orphans and street urchins than be taken care of by an Infected parent. He wasn't the perfect father yes, but the fear of being treated like scum reigned supreme compared to the love he could provide.

Raven, that bastard, decided in order to hurt him even further was to adopt his children. He wanted to scream that he was the reason that he was an Infected but found that he can barely speak, rocks in his throat made eating, hell for him. He tried writing but they tore it apart in front of him, saying that Infected are not to be trusted.

He lost everything he still had as if him losing his better half wasn't enough, all because that bastard felt like taking it away from him. He can't even visit his late wife's grave as they had a no-Infected policy.

Later after the Reunion seized Chernobog his kids were caught in the crossfire, he was the one who saw their corpses riddled with bolts. Their new father had their legs severed by a Reunion soldier and left him to die, however for Tim this was not enough and so he took a stray wrench and as the new amputee begged for his life not even shedding tears at the fact that his new "children" had been brutally killed.

He did what any sane mechanic will do when faced with a broken object, he "fixed" him.

While the initial coat of blood throughout his clothes made him feel alive, the hollowness of his heart came by the realization that he had nothing else to live for. His children died hating him and the bringer of his misery was slain by him, what else would he do? Commit suicide to see his beloved once more, but he cannot face her again knowing that in a sense he let their bundles of joy die. This tragedy started because he was an Infected and if Ursus did not treat them like animals then this wouldn't happen. He's one of the lucky ones not subjected to the mines, how many more people like him did Ursus put through and where should he be headed next?

Where else is he supposed to go if not Reunion?

The Lungmen Guard had him in restraints and shone a bright light on his face, he can barely understand Lungmen tongue, but he assumed that they wanted everything about Reunion. Leaders to strategies they expected him to cough out all he knows.

Like hell will he do that, what are they going to do after they get what they wanted? Kill him? He wanted to see his wife once more but he still wanted retribution for their sins.

This nation was also living off the blood of the Infected, treating them like scum and giving them the false hope of a life. His kin were living in fear and they are supposed to treat that dread as the norm.

"Listen here, we aren't afraid of using drastic measures to get what we want." An interrogator warned his voice didn't faze him in the slightest.

What else can they do to him that he did not experience before? No amount of physical pain can make him cough out what little he knew of his new family nor is the prospect of a better life. However he had a feeling that bribery is out of the question for his captors as he saw sparks of electricity.

"Alright, let's see how bad it can get…" He thought as he steeled himself for torture praying to whatever deity Terra has, to see if he can be reunited with his wife once more.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Ch'en was appalled by the report she was given, all of them refused to speak it seems then they either must know nothing or are loyal to the cause. In hindsight once you have been designated as an Infected and the only reason you keep living is Reunion it must be hard to spill what you know.

They could give incentives and bargain but to Ch'en it is an injustice for what they have done.

"Has the Guard Department even caught Reunion members before?" Amiya asked, Reunion was a name for awhile even before Chernobog fell. It would be imperative for Lungmen if they want to shut down dissent from the Infected to raid a few areas for possible members.

Ch'en shook her head, "Suspects yes, but we have yet to hear any confirmation." They might have just been regular violent Infected citizens now that thought about it, and like hell will anyone admit themselves to being Reunion that would just be a death sentence in admittance.

Now is not the time to wonder about the inconsistencies of her department, she's more concerned over that rogue element, the one who defeated an entire squad on their own.

"How's the SI Division? Still suppressed by a single Infected?" Ch'en asked tiredly, she had underestimated Reunion and in her mind is scolding the shit out of herself, but she needed to be strong, for her men's sake she must not show weakness.

Uneasy, her guard replied, "Reunion has also retreated from there too."

"A single person comes and goes as they please!" The Lung officer bit her lip in anger masked by annoyance. She calmed herself however, the mission is still more important.

"The next stage for the mission you must know it by now." She said towards Amiya.

"To take back Misha, right?"

"Right." Ch'en sighed as she looked over her men, some slightly injured but are being treated by Rhodes' Medics alongside the Doctor who at very least can still do basic motor function in his state.

"This is a joint operation where we lead the attack," And by we she means the LGD, "And Rhodes Island is tasked with searching and assaults." Seeing as the LGD has Rhodes beat in manpower this is a proper assignment, that and the report earlier showed Rhodes' affinity for all sorts of tactics. Without the Doctor's searching abilities however, it makes things a bit difficult on the defensive side of reconnaissance.

Invulnerable Persona Scouting vs Drone Technology, yeah for Amiya she would prefer the Persona, and would prefer for the Doctor to take things slow for now as she caught him summoning Pixie secretly to help earlier. Regardless of the Doctor insistence of it not taking too much of his energy, they need him to rest and lend his mind instead.

"Lastly, you just need to stall Reunion's retreat." Ch'en clarifies as this time they would fight side-by-side, "After that its mission accomplished." Dammit she really needs a vacation after this, and for a workaholic like her to wish that…

"Understood."

Franka bit her lip in annoyance and wondered if they really are suited for that role right now, "Searching, huh? We could get spotted right? Also doesn't the recon squad lack support?"

"I'm really sorry that I couldn't be much help." The Doctor sighed as he let Lancet-2 spray him with more healing juice.

"No, it's fine we really should leave this matter to the professionals." Amiya reassured the downtrodden Doctor, "Franka, please get me Exusiai and Texas."

- Oo-oOo-oO -

While waiting for their recon duo's information, various Operators decided on passing the time as the others take shifts in watching the perimeter. A Reunion soldier or two may be spotted sometimes, most likely because they wandered there by accident, either way they remained vigilant; last time was a kick to their senses.

Like everyone else the Doctor and his friends decided to play a friendly game of Monopoly, no matter what world it may be the core concept of that game exists. Sherry chuckled when she saw this world's version of the game, proving the archetype existence.

Not even an hour in the game, the friendly video game they were playing turned into a serious bout of property as Ch'en and Amiya teamed up to take down the Doctor's enormous corporate magnate. They were both low on money and are not in the slammer, if they roll a 4, they're safe anything else would be utter humiliation.

"This is even worse than when Kal'tsit, Amiya, and I played Uno." The Doctor trailed off recalling the time they played that infernal card game, the lynx girl ignored the two for the rest of the day after being subject to a chain of twenty cards.

"Ok, two more turns and I can pay the mortgage my on properties…" The Lung counted in her head, she refused to admit defeat even in the face of insurmountable odds, "After that he'll be forced to either go into Amiya's or my properties." At the very least they managed to secure housing and a color set.

She pressed the button to roll the dice.

It was a 6, the one time she didn't want to roll big.

Amiya can see the life leave out of her eyes as she forced to admit bankruptcy amidst the Doctor's virtual corporate empire.

She's their only hope and so with a soft breath and the memory of her friends she rolled the dice as well. This gambit to win it or maybe lose it all, the whims of fate…

It was a 1...the worst one.

"Uwaaaah…"

"You lost huh?" An unknown voice said behind Ch'en, who was unfazed. It was her co-worker Hoshiguma who was delayed thanks to a certain Sarkaz woman.

"You're finally here." The Lung sighed as she set aside her Shift after they lost horribly to the Doctor.

"Apologies, I was delayed by that person for too long."

"Are you hurt?"

Hoshiguma then flexed her arms setting her shield aside to lean on it, "No, but I was surprised, SID enhanced the main district defenses but they were all I could bring with me." By they, the Oni woman meant the squads she managed to round up.

"Still Hoshiguma...was it really true?" Her voice stern due to worry and broken pride, "Only one person?"

"I couldn't believe either, we are called the SID for a reason however…"

Hoshiguma cleared her throat and perked up, "Never mind that, you three have any plans?" She looked at the Doctor and Amiya while they were introduced by Ch'en they did worked on a small operation before, the man insisted that it would beneficial to have a sense of familiarity as soon as possible.

As if by perfect timing Amiya was quickly notified by the two they were waiting for.

"I see... alright thank you Exusiai." Amiya turned off her comm, "The two operators we sent to find Reunion discovered their whereabouts so we'll go by their directions."

"Hmm, that's good to hear Ch'en was really right about you guys." The RI duo was the only one who helped them in a mission before after all, Hoshiguma has yet to see them command their forces effectively.

"Alright then, let's get moving." The Doctor said as he was scurrying to grab a Rakukazine, "Hold still Ch'en."

"Hey what the-"

The pain of a syringe was immediately registered all over Ch'en's body; the LGD drew their weapons at the Doctor's actions, an understandable gesture but the don't have much time, for the Lung however the pain receded and soon after came a rush of power

"So much power, what did you do to me Doctor?"

The Doctor had Steward dispose of the syringe with ARTS, wouldn't want anyone else having a crack on RI med-tech after all, "Seeing as I'm not an active combat participant for now, these combat enhancement drugs would be more effective on your hands."

Ch'en was understandably skeptical, surely there must be a side-effect.

"It has no side-effects trust me, I personally tested trial medicine on myself."

The Lung did an eye-check; impressed by the conviction the Doctor had at his actual profession, she did feel a bit powerful with that medicine and she wasn't complaining on the buffs. At least they are risk-free unlike a certain doctor she heard about.

"Uh...Doctor isn't it a bit overkill for them?" Amiya pointed to the Reunion group hiding, it seems that those stragglers gathered and waited to make themselves known.

Like the dragon girl, the man in question just shrugged, "Eh, Madam Ch'en is the one who likes it fast right?"

"Indeed, let's see what your medicine can do Doctor."

"Eager huh? Alright leave the command to me!"

"Show us what you got Doctor!" Hoshiguma readied her demonic shield Hannya; Reunion would rue the day they didn't run.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Minutes before Rhodes and the LGD were fighting, Misha was sewing. Reunion was generous enough to spare of silk and cotton so she could pass the time. The group's need for her sent to the back of her mind as she was done with two Jack Frost dolls. One red and one blue.

"They're cute." A Reunion soldier suddenly said, "Misha right? Skullshatterer spoke so much of you."
He took a seat in the room, "Glad to see ya in person."

"So you're Infected as well?" Her speech has a bit on the confident side, Amiya and the Doctor seems to be rubbing off her.

"Yes that's right."

"So why did you join Reunion?"

The Reunion soldier's silence and emotionless expression was felt even though his face obscured by a mask.
"Why...huh?" He chuckled darkly, realizing his tone isn't appropriate for a child to hear reigned in his voice, "My wife and kids...all died to the hands of Chernobogians."
It was still fresh from his mind, the impassive looks of the citizens as his wife was sent away presumably to be killed by the government and then his kids dropped like flies, either by hunger or by malice. His eldest died procuring food with their meager income; slipped on a puddle and bled to death, his fate was preventable but no one helped him in that store. How his heart shattered when he saw his boy's corpse being loaded into a portable incinerator.

"Ursus' Infected were treated worse than animals." It was audible that his teeth gritted in anguish, the memories made it difficult to control his hatred of that damnable nation, "I wonder how many of our kin 's blood do they have on our hands."

"From insults to torture all of that are things we have to fear." Even in his happiest days the fear of mistreatment was still present in his mind, "...all because we are Infected."

Misha was silent she didn't know what it was like being an Infected for a long time, she was only one of them for weeks but somehow it resonated in her, his suffering. She wondered if Amiya and her friends from Rhodes Island had to fear that or were they ignorant of this because they were lucky.

If the latter would be the case then why is her eyes hiding so much sorrow?

After the soldier rant, they decided to talk about a lot of things to distract themselves from the dread of the situation, from knitting to music Misha had fun with her time with him.

"Evan, come help with the wounded." Skullshatterer made themselves known in the room, their gestures more relaxed than the aggressive persona on the battlefield.

Evan nodded, "Here." He took out a music player and gave it to Misha. "I'll lend you my player for a while, the band is not that famous globally so I'll show much my support by sharing it to you."

Misha did not question why he would lend of his valuables to her and graciously accepted it. It was an old model but it was still compatible with most formats the only things on the device are a single album of a band called MASK.

As Evan left the room, Skullshatterer took his place on the chair he was sitting on earlier. They set their weapon down on a table nearby it was apparent that while proficient in it Skullshatterer was getting tired of lugging this piece of equipment around.

"This abandoned mine would be our hideout for a while…" They sighed in relaxation their muscles stressed and tired after that earlier battle and a gauze was on their body from that last ice attack from Rhodes. "When the time is right we'll retreat to Chernobog."

"...Al-"

"No." Skullshatterer interrupted the young cub, "I have left that name, call me Skullshatterer." They were adamant in this name that now defines them. Within their heels they will shatter the skulls of the wicked that was the pledge they have sworn into when they joined Reunion, their former identity died on the ruins of Chernobog.

This forcefulness that this persona acquired however did not help in relieving Misha of her anxiety. Noticing this Skullshatterer asked, "Are you afraid?"

Afraid overall or afraid of them? Misha couldn't answer that so instead she just said,
"Why Skullshatterer?" All this violence, she knew when she was secured by a Sarkaz woman that the innocents caught in the scuffle didn't left unscathed.

If those screams of "Die Lungmen!" weren't compelling enough then the burning of fresh produce and residential areas will.

"After knowing that you were stranded here in Lungmen everyone volunteered to help." Misha wondered if they only helped her out of altruism or because of her importance, "In Lungmen we also took in many Infected." That much is evident form the base she can hear children running about on another room.

Still, it did not make the earlier conflicts any better for her. Contrary to her brother's words she understood even less of the situation, however that did not stop her in questioning her sibling's morality.
"I don't want to, why does the Infected have to?"

Skullshatterer did not noticed the utter confusion in her voice so they just imparted what they believed to be a constant in this hellish world, "An eye for an eye that's just how it is." Ignoring the fact that the ideal is flawed they continued,

"Our kin should be treated as warm as spring…" It wasn't even a week when they proved themselves to be a capable member, it wasn't even a week when they were appointed to be a squad leader, and it wasn't even a week when they found the difficulties of being an Infected.

They thought they had the world figured out, the Infected are oppressed and the Non-Infected are free.

"Our enemies however…" Thanks to a certain group their worldview is challenged.

The silence of their last statement echoed throughout the room, their never had the chance to confide their hardships to Misha before and like a dam full of water…

"What's wrong?"

The water came crashing out.

"They beaten her to death Misha!" Their teeth gritted at the memory, "When they came for me, our mother...they dragged me by the door as our mother held onto my hand"

"Surely you must have seen, she wouldn't let go even at an inch of her life." they angrily sobbed on their mask, ah it was all too much; their sister as helpless as she could be here in the flesh, they thought they lost her like they lost their mother and father, the former leaving a bloody trail in her demise as she desperately held his hand that day.

The cold snow left a crimson red akin to the carpets of monarchs and the young boy prayed for anyone to save them.

Except it didn't came until all he had was lost.

"If only Reunion...if only, the Infected then…" They wheezed as the mere memory still haunts them, "If only."

"Then we wouldn't suffer all that much." They angrily shouted to no one, but the people at top; the Non-infected all to the Ursus government who allowed all these tragedies to be permitted. An echo of darkness reverberated through their heart.

Upon that rant, Misha could only cry for her sibling and for herself. They are just children after all how else are they gonna survive, are they even allowed to live in this world that detests their existence? She doesn't know and as such she could only cry on her powerlessness something her brother never blamed for.

"I don't blame you Misha, in that situation who could have done anything in that situation?" Yes, that was the unfiltered truth of their tragedy, they were helpless plain and simple even with courage what good would have done? Get themselves killed?

"Skullshatterer…"

Her brother stood up and dragged their weapon with them as if to inspect any problems with such a volatile piece of equipment, nevertheless while their gaze was focus on their armament, their voice was focused on their sibling.

"You can choose to not believe us." Skullshatterer won't stop her if she wants to fight with them but they will never force her to raise her fist with them, "However with Reunion I am able to obtain the courage needed to fight back."

"It is your choice but you are an Infected and Reunion will fight for our freedom."

For Misha that didn't change the fact that they destroyed Chernobog along with a lot of innocents, students, children, and destitute that are fortunate enough to not have their predicament.

"Even still, many innocents died…"

The hooded soldier scoffed at the statement, "Who is innocent?" In their eyes no one is, they did not protest when the government made the treatment of their kin as animals passed. They let their brothers and sisters die all because of sickness.

"They let us be treated like invalids, when the Ursus government passed all those atrocities who stepped up and rallied for justice?" There were none, not even a single one had the guts to step up, in their mind they might as well be the ones who are treating them with the same veneration as criminals.

"Wait, wasn't their a leader that fought for our rights?" Misha protested seeing that her brother failed to see the severity of his group's actions. Even she knew that leader's existence as they were as prevalent on the news as anyone else on the Ursus televisions.

Skullshatterer chuckled darkly, an action that was so different from the kind sibling she had lived with, "Yes, however they were not in Chernobog." If they were so adamant in protecting all the Infected how come they weren't able to protect the Infected in Chernobog?

"They weren't there when the Infected in Chernobog died from the cold, and our neighbors all watched us die." Just the memory of their faces was enough for them to grit their teeth in frustration, "No! Chernobog was glad to see us die."

Misha was silent and she refused to believe in his "us versus them" mentality, looking at the dolls she made in Jack's image she wanted to convince him to come with her to Rhodes.

"...I have met other people who were helping the Infected."

"Rhodes Island? Who despite being Infected help Lungmen in slaying our kin?" She didn't know that Skullshatterer absolutely despises Amiya's group, they fought his brothers-in-arms without much hesitance and one of them was the reason why they were suffering from frostbite before.

"No…" She wanted to tell him that his people were responsible for the suffering of their kin as well and that his enemy was the one lifted them out of a horrible life.

However, she did not know that Skullshatterer was all to aware of the benefits Rhodes gave to their kin. The respect each other had during battle, non-infected praising their skills and are able to co-exist. That was what made him hate them, while they were suffering from Ursus they are able to live normal lives; at least that was his perspective. To him they are ignorant of the suffering Reunion has gone through and are undeserving of the right to fight for the Infected after all they slayed their kin, turn their backs on them. They have the ability to help so why did they stayed their hand?

Even if he wouldn't admit it he was jealous of Rhodes Island, envious of the privileges these people had; from equipment to medical treatment there were stark differences between the two groups. Their was a reason why Reunion barely had Medics on them, the ones they did have were not sent into battle and one of the commanders that could as one has treatment so horrible that death would have been better.

"You don't see the truth, but by now you should know." They realized that they had gone too far in spilling their plights, "Sorry, I got too heated."

Misha knew that some parts of what he said were mistaken but she shook her head, "It's okay I understand, you had a hard time." She can empathize with the suffering her brother had endured without her, even if it's flawed.

"Everyone had a hard time, but now with Talulah at the helm we have hope." She can't help but be at awe at how her brother spoke of the name alone with such reverence.

"If Reunion can protect the Infected…"

"It won't be if, we will protect the Infected." Skullshatterer said to her with conviction, grasping her hands with his he pledged, "I swear I won't let anything hurt you ever again."

Misha nodded as she took her brother in for a hug, something that both long for ever since this string of tragedies began.

Little did they know is that a certain angel and wolf had spotted them for afar, with a pair of binoculars they have pinpointed their location and relayed it all to their employer. Now the only thing left to do is to make some noise and as such blades were sharpened and ammunition was refilled.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

When they arrived following the angel girl's directions they saw a battlefield. It looked like a sizable force blew over the warehouse in the middle of nowhere. It was foolish of Reunion to assume that if one person from their side can handle an LGD squad that they are strong enough to take whatever the city throws at them.

Their comeuppance was at least two squads killed or severely injured by a lone Lupo and Sankta from Rhodes. The Doctor counted the bodies strewn around in the activist group's uniform to make sure it was that many.

The two in question were having a blast with their job if their smirks aren't any indication.

"Shit! How many have we lost!?"

"About twenty-" He was interrupted by a hail of gunfire pouring out on his left side.

The combination of the two was perfectly in sync only the closest of co-workers can clean through bodies that efficiently. Whenever the left side was threatened, bullets were spread across the ensuing clog, likewise when the right side is in danger falling swords impale the behind and the front was cut down.

"The enemies are all focused on us, so you can do whatever Amiya." Exusiai called out on the comms as she loaded another clip.

Amiya instinctively nodded even though her conversation was being made meters apart, then she contacted Liskarm, "Team Liskarm are you in position?"

"Team Liskarm is in position." Franka did not say a word and only let her blade be ablaze as even she has a bone to pick with Reunion. They were the first to take shifts to guard the Doctor's beaten body they have only spent a few hours with the man and he already deserve the upmost respect, Franka especially when he decided to spare some of his sizable fortune for that Infected family's future.

They were being treated like mice before and it is time to return the favor.

With a confirmation that no more civilians were present from the drone team, Amiya gave a slight gaze to the Doctor awaiting battle commands. This kind of situation for some reason it all feels right to the Cautus.

"Be careful of the target don't get to lighten up." She focus the rings on her fingers and manifest a black diamond behind her.

"All Operators Charge!"

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Amiya stood beside the Doctor who was coordinating the assault on the Reunion base, it was the perfect area for her to protect the Doctor and at the same time dispatch of high-profile enemies. Armored units didn't stand a chance to the might of her ARTS and the miscreants who use cloaking tech were easily taken care of by devices that nullify their invisibility.

"Stay away from that monster Caster!" In that enemy's panic he did not the notice the spinning edges of Hannya.

Monster, how many times have they called you that I wonder?

Again, the voice in her head persisted with its presence. She absolutely detested being called as such but it was frighteningly accurate, she is a monster she knew that by know. However if being a monster is what it takes to keep the Doctor and Rhodes Island safe than what lines should she cross even further?

Instead of distracting her, the voice made her more focused and accurate in attacks as if they were trying to provoke her. This in turn made Reunion think twice on going through this route, the middle. The left and right were flanked by the LGD and Rhodes Island, a strategy approved by Ch'en that the Doctor came up with, thus the only choice they had is to go through the middle to escape.

The problem was the middle was a steep slope and with Snipers hidden in the bushes the narrow pass made it an impossible ordeal. Naturally the used the Armored Units to counter the heavy Sniper fire but that's why Amiya was there.

Reunion in all honesty should have picked a better hiding place as the area has so many pits, cover, and vantage points for Rhodes Island to take advantage of. The Doctor couldn't help but chuckle at Crownslayer, a Reunion leader they had encountered in Chernobog, being pushed off a pit of spikes; the fox girl only being saved by sticking her knives on the wall, vaulting off it and retreated since the terrain is not to her favor.

No losses happened under the Doctor's command but Amiya knew that things would be over without much fighting if he was allowed to fight with his Persona. However while the Doctor was adamant of no sacrifices, Amiya can't help but be worried that he was going to sacrifice himself to achieve that. Especially since he must focus on recovering his strength once more, the medics said that in two hours he'll be back and ready for combat and he chugged a Sanity Potion to restore his SP, a term he explained to her as the reservoir of his power's ARTS like abilities.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The flip side of this battle however is that Reunion is being slaughtered, nay decimated would be accurate according to W, the man was truly formidable in strategy she couldn't help but scoff at the futility some of her comrades' actions as they try to out-maneuver the man's tactics.

Him carrying a weapon still befuddled the Sarkaz but she shrugged it off as a consequence of his lost memories, and she enjoyed the twist as it made things interesting. Games like these should have variance in the player's play-style after all. That and the contracts she gave him gave the girl some bank, a girl's gotta eat after all or in this case get war funds.

Even before the battle started they evacuated those who can barely fight, children and frail Infected ran behind. She was expecting a sudden assault, so she clutched a grenade, prepared to throw it behind her if it comes to it. They already got what they wanted so naturally they would both fortify the base and secure a route out of it.

However Rhodes waited, He waited.

Once all the civilians were gone everything went to shit for her employers. They were surrounded no two ways about it, the LGD and Rhodes caught them and they have no intention of letting them out. To her relief the number two of her leader was safe albeit out of the fight entirely, since if Crownslayer dies she's screwed as well.

Putting Misha near her sibling after that abduction was a mistake on her side's part but she's an employee not a boss.

She can already hear the astonished looks of her "comrades." From above she can see Skullshatterer barking orders hoping for any information that would get them through this.

"What a laugh, once you're in his board you're just another piece to capture." A cynical thought echoed.

"Don't panic! We can assemble a counterattack." The young commander rallied their troops as best they can, they wouldn't waste this chance to retaliate the perfect time to eliminate both Rhodes Island and those damnable LGDs.

The cries of their fallen brethren dampened their morale however not even Skullshatterer was spared from the bitter taste of despair. That hopelessness became nutrients to his already corroding heart.

No matter the circumstances they can still…

Misha pulled on the commander's coat bringing them back to the battle, it was comforting to Skullshatterer but then they realized.

"Why haven't you retreated along with the other civilians!?" There is no reason to stay here unless you're a fighter then they saw the passage was blocked by their own men. In their earlier panic they freed everyone but the most important, now ironically the safest place for Misha was along her brother's side. Then they slammed their fists to the ground, his selfishness prevented Misha from escaping, if they escorted her out as soon as they got her they wouldn't have to worry about this mess.

"Skullshatterer, we can still…" She pointed at a Rhodes Island Caster who was incapacitating their Armored Units one by one.

"What, you want me to talk with Rhodes?"

Misha nodded, she didn't want any more bloodshed to happen and she knew the reason why as well, "They will also help the Infected."

"They killed countless of our kin-" Skullshatterer's anger was interrupted by a body of their comrade landing directly on their feet riddled with bullet holes courtesy of that Sankta girl, "-and you want me to go there and talk?"

Misha needs to see just how much of a monster Rhodes Island actually is, for all their talk of helping the Infected why haven't they obliged?

"Where were they during Chernobog? Why couldn't they help all of us here?" They waved their hand at the injured Reunion soldiers, injured by the one's that were supposed to help them.

Skullshatterer couldn't fathom the reasons why non-infected and Infected would work together to deliver the hopeless to their early graves. Nor could they understand why aren't they helping them destroy Lungmen if they really want to help the Infected.

"What is it that is clouding your eyes Misha!?"

The girl went silent and offered no response, she did not even feel the right to suggest diplomacy to her brother not after seeing that the LGD and Rhodes Island has no patience for her sibling's faction anymore.

"The Infected have a sliver of hope at long last unlike those hypocrites who bloody their hands with our kind." Skullshatterer gripped their weapon in rage, "What words could I have for traitors!?"

The only response the cub would muster, "Why does the Infected have to kill each other?"

"Heh, you're guess is as good as mine?" Skullshatterer chuckled bitterly, "What should I do? Let my kin be slaughtered?"

Misha went silent.

Skullshatterer sighed as they saw a familiar signal up ahead, it was W. The Sarkaz no doubt wants to meet up for a strategy or a backhanded quip, maybe both knowing the demolitions expert. However before they depart they should at the very least exchange a few words; the commander isn't confident in their survival at this point.

"It's okay, you won't get hurt they still need you after all." At the very least if Rhodes managed to get a hold of her, they hope that she'll be alive, "Keep yourself safe, stay out of battle you lived a week in this hellish place I know you can manage."

They knelt in front of their sister and hugged her small figure, "Do be careful Misha."

"You have to come back...I've finally…"

"Yeah, I'll come back." With those passing words Skullshatterer left and went to W.

"Yeah I will come back and we can finally go home together."

...

"Say Skullshatterer remember what I told you from before?"

They stayed silent for a while then responded with, "I do."

"If you take out that target, you know the guy with the hood right beside the bunny girl, he's the commander of Rhodes Island." That much is apparent to the young commander, even better is that he was the one who put himself through the wringer from their last encounter.

"Yes, once he dies Rhodes Island's brain will fall apart." It will be easy, he was obviously not fully recovered even with his tricks he wouldn't survive an ambush.

W contacted some of her units under her command, "We don't many options and people left, my Casters will cover you until you reach that spot there." She pointed at the location with her units already mobilizing towards the area. It was a prime area for ambushes, regardless of the target's position they will be able to pull an attack off.

"My secondary units will lure any who will interfere with the plan so you just have to take hold of this chance." Even if any Defenders would interfere the enemy commander will still be fatally wounded, in the event he doesn't die they have no choice to retreat.

Picking him off afterwards would be easy.

"Alright I'll be off." Skullshatterer double-checked their equipment, ammunition and diversion tools arranged on their vest, "One more thing W."

"Hmm?"

"Take of care of Misha for me."

The Sarkaz smiled at her comrade, "No problem, good luck." Her gaze were focused at Skullshatterer even after nonchalantly detonating a claymore she had set before. No screams of pain were heard throughout the blast so she guessed that the Doctor out-maneuvered her setup. She had known by now that the man knew that she was here fighting against them, no doubt the icebreaker of a future conversation.

She glided her fingers on her remote control, "Unfavorable terrain huh? Let's fix that."

Tiny bombs detonated in a chain, unbeknownst to her current enemies, these strategically rigged locations of explosives were insurance just in case something like this would happen. Her mercenary pride wouldn't allow her to do contracts half-assed, regardless of her opinions of the little group she's working with.

The terrain shifted subtly, but enough to make a whole world of a difference.

Ah but even that is not enough to hinder the Doctor's strategy, however they had something that can match it. She raised her to the sky and felt a breeze glide through her fingertips, upon feeling the wind she smirked knowing what's going to come.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The main advancement went smoothly as predicted, however they did account for the base itself. Gravel, rocks, and other earthen terrain that can hinder anyone's combat skill were the biggest component to their decline in effectiveness. They can defeat Reunion easily but there is still matter of subduing them, and due to the unfavorable terrain the bastards can easily flee and recuperate to attack.

The Doctor and the Superintendent figured that the girl wouldn't be able to leave Lungmen, the cub would be near the commander's side knowing that she is an important asset for Reunion. The Penguin Logistics duo goaded the enemy to make non-soldiers flee whether or not it was a planned route didn't matter. They thought it was a reconnaissance attack but they did not expect such a force to gather at such a long time. Even if they would mobilize to force Misha to leave they would be forced to manage distance and fight the squads after them.

Truly, the best course for Reunion was to hold it out and force them to retreat.

The Doctor and Amiya advanced with them as well being guarded by Hoshiguma, at Ch'en insistence. The man proved to be capable of combat once more although at Amiya's persistence he was still protected and not permitted to use his Persona to assist in the attack. Then again even his recon is useless as they are as good as an extra pair of eyes seeing in a windy and sandy wasteland.

Gusts came in a powerful bellow of air, along with the gravel and sand made the already unusually sandy battleground even worse. Little did they know that the extra buffeting sand came from the detonations below, W's efforts to tip the scales produced a welcome bonus.

"Hmm, with such a poor vision I can't really perform my best…" Moaned Exusiai, a Sniper's eyes are truly invaluable to their roles and with this hindrance they are unable to commit to it.

"We can't go any further…" Franka lamented, advancing through this would be like jumping in to the belly of the beast, an event that would surely spell the end.

That would indeed be the stupidest move they could do right now, Liskarm wouldn't be surprised if there was an encirclement waiting for them midst the dunes of sand and gravel. Hence the BlackSteel pair decided to take the high ground for vision and to secure points vital for the infiltration and if their lucky, find Misha.

The pair searched the top and found the state of the terrain odd, there was no hostiles at sight. An oddity that perplexed the two as any good tactician worth their salt would have already secured this point by now.

"Franka, any difficulties?" Amiya asked through her comm, the main force steadily held their point until it was safe to advance.

"No, the terrain is easy to hold but hard to attack on." The Vulpo replied, "It seems that Reunion has given up on ambushing us."

Suddenly, there was a shadow that emerged from the dust.

Stabbing sounds were heard throughout the vicinity, the shadow crumpled with two cauterized stab wounds on their body, it was Reunion soldier stabbed by a thermite sword.

"Blacksteel…"

Seeing that their ambush failed, they did the only thing they could do.

"Retreat! All forces retreat!"

It was all Rhodes needed to hear in order to attack, thus they continued to advance. Like a wall slowly crushing unfortunate intruders, the LGD and Rhodes continue to close in on the aggressors who dare set foot in Lungmen. The Doctor assisted the other Operators in taking down enemies without the use of his hook he was as slightly stronger than the average swordsman.

With little to no effort, he gave commands while occasionally busting the skull of an unfortunate foe, even the addition of a new type of Reunion unit was not a detriment to victory.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Even now the earlier disadvantage persisted, unfavorable terrain that makes unable to subdue their targets but this time it was on a more outrageous scale.

"Impossible…" Hoshiguma breathed out, their were more hostiles afoot after the last wave.

"We just wiped out an entire squadron." Liskarm quipped her disbelief, her horns started to glow once more in preparation of using her ARTS.

An entire squadron fell before them and they were gone in an instant, the one chance they had to subdue and weaken both morale and force was dashed by a heavy armored enemy.

"That big guy from before was only a diversion?"

That still doesn't make sense, Ch'en cut through their images cleanly; not enough to kill but enough to stop them from fighting all together.

"Oh no." Everyone realized what's wrong, their accuracy was compromised so the images they were hitting were not the same as the ones being damaged.

Weeds, ruins, sand hills; they were all perfect locations to hide your location, even if the enemy's eyes were not directly being interfered. The enemy has so much cover that any point might be an ambush, but if they falter in their advance they would give the tide of the battle to Reunion. In short they could only hold off Reunion units that can dare attack them and heal back up to do it again.

They fell for the trap, they were all sitting ducks.

"Still...something isn't right…" Amiya pondered that it would be better if Reunion would force them to move in a certain location that is full of ambush-ready soldiers, but they didn't as if it was they were holding them to this spot on purpose.

Suddenly noises erupted near them, Rhodes Island and the LGD braced themselves for a sudden assault, a rain of projectiles and even ARTS, "Everything isn't right… Penguin Logistics stay alert!"

"Huh!" Exusiai was the first who pinpointed the origin of the disturbance, "Underground!?"

A figured erupted from the underground like a mole, a familiar grenade launcher pointed directly at the Doctor! It was Skullshatterer, at point blank range, there was no way for the Doctor to survive this, and even better is that some will be injured by the resulting explosion.

Steel clashed against the weapon however, it was the Hannya; Hoshiguma blocked what would be the Doctor's imminent demise.

"This shield is not something you'll break through!"

Skullshatterer kicked the Oni behind propelling the assailant backwards allowing them to readjusting their aim, their fingers pulled close to the trigger that will secure Reunion's victory.

"You want to hurt him...How dare you!"

It was too late the shell was fired directly towards the Doctor, even if Skullshatterer died Reunion would win. As if time was going through molasses everyone can see the surprised face of the Doctor.

"Doctor! Get down!" Hoshiguma shouted in terror as she uselessly tried to take the hit that was meant for their commander.

"It's over!"

Energy converged through the Cautus' fingers, her rings had an audible crack rang out. Red and black, red and black, the colors of madness spiraled on her tips and without hesitation she let if fly.

An explosion rang out to the battlegrounds, Reunion soldiers looking at the smoldering crater with perverse glee as the brain of the enemy bit the big one. Thinking that he could fight as well as command his troops to send their brothers and sisters to their deaths, such arrogance.

"What a pain." Those same Reunion soldiers were terrified at the sight they have seen, it was the Doctor all in one piece along with weird mythical lizard on his side and just as quick as it appeared it vanished into ether.

They were all at disbelief, even his own forces had their mouths agape. Some of them were present as he was unharmed by Ifrit's flame but to survive a weapon that was meant to make you into a bloody smear into the sand was something else.

At the same time however, they saw Skullshatterer skewered by a red and black energy spike. The Doctor had his expression changed from annoyed to horrified at the grizzly figure next to him. Amiya's ARTS killed his would-be assailant. She knew the Doctor's power first and foremost but the idea of him being targeted in battle specifically trigger the bunny girl's killing intent.

"Impossible...you are…" The dead man breathed out even with their last ounce of strength before death he looked at the Doctor with nothing but hate, "You-'re the...one...they...warned...us about…" They didn't know who it was at that time and they don't have any pictures to go by, all Mephisto and Faust could say was there was a man who toyed with Talulah's power.

Skullshatterer then looked at Amiya with both awe and hatred, "You both had such power and you are still willing to kill your kin."

"Just because you and Amiya share the same condition doesn't mean you are bound by blood." The Doctor didn't want to see him die but he would be lying if he didn't feel catharsis seeing his skewered body, "You're angry at us for not siding with Reunion? When your leader took the fight to us, in the end you're just a child throwing a temper tantrum."

"Heh…" Skullshatterer coughed up blood, forcing their body to do one last attack even though there was a gaping hole in their chest, "You...have...no idea what we've...been through…"

"Yeah I don't, but all Infected have experience suffering and they knew that vengeance was wrong." The Doctor injected a Curinall syringe through his body, even with Wyvern's resistance he still took some damage, "Take it to the grave, the knowledge that your actions caused more Infected to suffer." Once those words were imparted, he turned away from his would-be murderer.

Then he looked at his savior, her hands trembling she looked towards him in desperate need for reassurance.

"Doctor...I-I…" Her ARTS dissipated as she was wavering in her actions, "I didn't-I…"

What monstrous power...

There was no need for words, she was brought to an embrace by the Doctor. She can feel his emotions, he too was scared, it he was a split second late in changing Personas he would have blown to smithereens. Everyone could understand what Amiya was going through, some of them even spilled their lunch at the at the condition of Skullshatterer's body.

The hug was only for a few seconds, but to the two it felt like an eternity; they stopped the touching moment as they still have a friend to rescue and evil to punish.

"The fog is gone…" Hoshiguma while failing to shield the Doctor managed to protect everyone else near the explosion's radius, "Was that your ARTS back then Doctor?" however that did not mean she went by unscathed as well.

The Doctor, rather than explaining it just called out his first Persona, Ophiuchus; the allies and enemies in the vicinity marveled at the figure standing behind him. The cat is out of the bag, so he might as well use every ounce of strength he has, after all this will be the last battle in a long while that would require this strength.
"Dia." He whispered, his intent directed at the injured Oni and with it all that was damaged cease to be, the patient looked at amazement at how effortless the treatment seemed.

"So you have a trump card in your sleeve." Hoshiguma said as the Doctor dismissed the figure behind him, some would even considered what they saw as a mirage, the enemy refused the sight that was once before them as doing so would confirm their powerlessness.

They would soon depart from this point in a few moments as part of the coordinated plan, Misha is nowhere to be seen in this part of the frankly expansive Reunion Headquarters. However Amiya still had her morale plummet after her kill of Skullshatterer, seeing this the Doctor approached the Cautus who was fidgeting her fingers.

"I want to thank you for saving me Amiya."

"I'm not worth the thanks, it was due to my negligence that your power is now revealed to others." Amiya coldly replied she felt numb for a good reason.

"It's not like we could hide it forever Amiya, it was my fault for being weak and reckless."

The Cautus flinched and realized what the Doctor was trying to do, "Are you trying to pass of the blame to yourself Doctor?" Amiya mischievously looked at the slightly taller man, "Weren't you the one who said that all are to blame when a group fails?"

"Yeah, that's why I'm blaming myself because you are doing that."

They both chuckled at their stupidity, uplifting the young leader's mood and lifting her out of her pit of doubt.

"So are you gonna take my thank you from before?"

"Yes, and I will always be here to protect you."

- Oo-oOo-oO -

He can hear it all, the laughter of the two that lead to his demise. Somehow he can also see even though his face was planted on the sandy dunes, he can smell the familiar stench of blood, his blood. He doesn't even understand as to how he can still create coherent thoughts when his body has a gaping hole where his heart and other organs used to be.

He knew by now that if his body is still intact, in won't be for long; any second now it will turn to dust spreading the seeds of Infection through the air, creating more misery.

The Infected and the non-Infected...how could they work with each-other without so much of as an objection, the LGD are able to work with a group that harbors the Infected and yet those same Infected were treated with respect and also get to have nice lodgings and salaries…

This same organization wasn't able to help them when they needed help the most, they were able to help so many people but not them so it did not matter. These people where willing to butcher their own kind to secure their own lives.

Yet those words that damnable Doctor said to him before moving on to proceed with their plan's to take his sister from her rightful place echoed in his psyche.
Like the voice of death mocking his resolve and his justice.

The notion of his statement baffles him, how are they not kin when they all are Infected; they are all suffering oppression together it would make sense that all of them should join in and band with one another. This would make creating a land only for the Infected easy and with their power who would be able to stop them?

That bunny girl and the Doctor had powers that can rival their leader yet they chose to point their weapons at them who all want the same thing.

It was absurd, he can't understand and will refuse to; no matter what world it may be for all those actions to benefit the Infected, is an affront to what he was fighting for.

His dying conclusion was Rhodes Island was an insult to Reunion's existence before he breath his last, the seed in his heart bloomed.
The mind of Skullshatterer was covered in purple fractals.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

A chill ran through the Doctor's spine, Amiya too was suddenly alarmed there were a bunch of Reunion soldiers rushing towards them. They fired crossbow bolts towards them but the volley missed, they were not aiming to kill but to distract them.

They rushed towards Rhodes to secure Skullshatterer's body.

"We have get Skullshatterer's body back!" Is this the right time to be sentimental? When they willingly went into the lion's den just to take their food? Hoshiguma could only wonder on how they managed to take over Chernobog.

Without hesitation Hoshiguma blocked their way with her shield and pushed her momentum towards the enemy, knocking several behind her.

"That woman's shield! Dammit circuit through her we have to get him back!"

The sudden force diverted from the wall of an Oni, some of them forcing their weight on her to hinder her movement.

But that wasn't enough for them.

"Hoshiguma your right!" Amiya shouted the Cautus was also helping in taking down any interlopers that passed through Hoshiguma's wall of defense. The Oni brought her shield to her right side making it clash with steel, a new figure appeared to the battle, one that is familiar.

"Heh, you parried with your shield now that's interesting…" It was the one Ch'en hunted out for payback, the one who took Misha off the LGD, it was Sarkaz mercenary called W.

However all this conflict going on was not what the Doctor had a burning dread for, while he was trying to assess the situation especially since W managed to outrun Ch'en's pursuit a tremor suddenly shook the near him.

They instantly pinpointed the source of it and it was in front of them, beside the two Reunion soldiers recovering the fallen commander's corpse but it wasn't beneath them, no it was near them.

Or to be more accurate Skullshatterer's body.

"Everyone get the hell away from here!" Terror and anxiety echoed from his voice and the Doctor's face paled, that was probably one of the rare times his colleagues absolutely terrified.

All of those in his side did not waste their moment to retreat and fall back, they can fight Reunion or reroute their locations to a more favorable terrain so they all followed his orders without protest. The LGD followed suit if only because everyone else was doing it.

The fools of Reunion however saw it as their counterattack working, even so they continued to remain unaware of a dark purple Originium crystal sprouting and rising from their fallen comrade's body. They decided to chase after the retreating force in a blind attempt to change the tides of battle.

W however knew better and saw the anomaly as a signal to get out if her secret friend's look of terror wasn't any indication, so she let Hoshiguma push her back with enough distance to give make the Oni give chase.
Her eyes widened at the fact that even though he was the one who ordered to fall back, he himself stayed, his hooksword drawn and his eyes darted around looking for cover.

"Amiya, fall back now!" His voice was harsh and commanding but carried a tone of anxiety that Amiya picked up. Hesitant to abandon the Doctor once again, she complied and flee as he stood there ready to fight even though Reunion Casters and Snipers took aim at him; they seem to think that this was a simple retreat and are eager to finish what their fallen friend sought out to do.

They shot everything they had at him, "Doctor!" The torrent of projectiles ready to kill him on the spot and without even rationalizing it she ran back towards him ready to protect him once more.

However, it was a mistake.

Another shock-wave rocked throughout the vicinity, this pushed out all of the projectiles that were about to hit the Doctor but it was hardly necessary. He wasn't aware of what would happen with this anomaly so to ensure his survival he commanded Jack to use Mabufu at all the projectiles that would come his way, as a result all those objects flung by the shock-wave exploded into snow and ice.

Even still that did not change the fact that Amiya was by his side once more, for better or for worse.

"Why Amiya? I told you to run!" Like a parent that would scold their child he scolded her in worried anger.

"I didn't-I…" She herself did not understand why she went back on her retreat, she knew that the Doctor can handle this situation on his own, now that the one restraint they had was broken.

"Nevermind that! Just get out of here!"

Once again, she complied with his command reigning her irrationality, something that Dr. Kal'tsit will also chew her out on after this operation for sure. As she was leaving however she has suddenly blocked by an invisible force.

"I can't get out Doctor!" She shouted in slight panic, after all the Doctor losing his cool was enough for all of them to have anxiety as well.

"What's happening to Skullshatterer?" One of the Reunion soldiers stopped carrying his body as they noticed something black oozing out of their comrade's body, "What's this black goop?"

Amiya and the Doctor were far but stood in horror of what's happening, the black goop trickled down the corpse in small leaks. Anyone with a modicum of common sense would instinctively backed away from the unknown substance and some of them did, the fear of the unknown crept on their faces.

"This darkness as I thought…"

The Doctor knew what was gonna happen next, or at least an idea of it. This was his first time encountering one after all but from what his contractors have told him this was the birth of a Shadow.

The black goop that was leaking suddenly gushed and sprayed through most of the Reunion members near him.

"The hell is this gunk, I can't get out!"

"No, no, no I'm being swallowed by-"

The two other soldiers who were spared from this nightmare were treated to a sight, and oh what a sight it was. Skullshatterer's body, the three soldiers who were left to drown in the ever increasing black sludge melted into a pool of darkness.

"Grahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!" The shriek of vengeance and agony echoed through the whole battlefield, rustling some nearby trees.

"What the hell was that, anyone report now!" Somewhere far from the source Ch'en desperately contacted any one of her units, she needed to understand the situation.

To anyone who still stayed near Skullshatterer were treated to a sight, it was still him as if brought back from the dead however there was a lot of things that are different. His mask was broken and exposed only his eyes, they glow a foreboding yellow, the face region of his mask look like it was sewn onto his face leaving two holes on the two ends of the mouth like a rabid dog that is not permitted to bark only to growl and foam on the mouth.

His small frame's body armor have bones embedded on them like a reinforcement on his frail body, having shattered skulls as shoulder guards.

The weapons he carry however had the biggest modifications, his knife grew into a great-sword and he carried it like it weighed like nothing. His grenade launcher grew into a more comically large size but this also was something he can wield without difficulty.

The energy from the Shadow oozed nothing but the feelings that gave way as the catalyst for this monstrosity. Skullshatterer's conscience has long since left his body now the only thing that remained was his last thoughts of malice and envy.

The Doctor on the other hand felt saddened by it all along with his fear, if Skullshatterer created a Shadow then that means that he also had the potential for a Persona. Now is not the time to dwell on what-ifs however, his hands are tied and from his second-hand knowledge an attack from a Shadow from a non-Persona user would leave them defenseless.

Amiya in particular is in grave danger, her Caster role made a hit from that monstrosity fatal.

"Skullshatterer...what the hell is happening to you…" The soldier was praying to any deity to save them and put his friend's soul to rest.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

So the arena is guarded with a one-way wall of energy and they can't get out; in these situations the barrier dissipates when the monster dies, or at least that's what he got from the video games he played on his spare time. The Doctor admitted to himself that this isn't the best assumption to make but with no other mechanics taught to him by the ones who know this stuff more than he does that is the only basis he can make to get them out of this.

Without hesitation, he first checked his communication device contacting the Ark. However the Doctor was already beaten to it, he heard a silent notification appear on his device; a function that most garrisons use so they wouldn't alert any nearby enemies.

Shadows are beings of instinct made from the intense repression of the psyche, so the cover the Doctor and Amiya would make them essentially invisible to it. The Doctor peeked through their hiding spot and saw the Shadow not doing anything even to the cowering pair of Reunion soldiers that were unfortunate enough to be in the barrier's range.

"...The Doctor here." He whispered through the communication device, in fear that it would send the docile Shadow their way.

"Doctor, details now!" He can hear Dr. Kal'tsit's voice of concern from his heavy-duty earphones, "There is an inversely similar energy like your Persona near your location, is this those Shadows you have warned us about?"

"Affirmative, we can't get out; it erected a one-way barrier I assume that we have to defeat it to get rid of it."

"We? I though we were in an agreement that these matters are things you will address on your own? Wait, why is Amiya near you in the same confinement?"

The Doctor breathed out a sigh of exhaustion, "I ordered Amiya to retreat and leave me on my own, however she disobeyed." There was a slight pause, the other doctor was not happy with the explanation, "She went in on impulse."

From the other side, the lynx woman gritted her teeth. Of course Amiya would do that, the situation must have triggered something from their past, something traumatic.

"Then you have no choice, prioritize Amiya's safety" Kal'tsit launched high-speed drones, they were just prototypes but they are designed to analyze these Shadows and collect the Doctor's battle data, "By now you must be using your Personas, so by all means go nuts."

"So much for keeping it under wraps...oh well we still have that ruse." The Doctor would rather not have nations assault his home because of the special power he possess after this, but if he can worry about that then he should focus more on the walking corpse that is submerged in darkness.

"Can I count on you to take command for now?" One of the Doctor's concerns was that Rhodes is working blind on their fighting, even though Reunion is heavily weakened he wouldn't take any chances.

"Very well, I will relay instructions towards the coordination core."

The Doctor let a sigh of relief escape from his lips, "I'm really grateful for that Dr. Kal'tsit." He earnestly thanked her, his voice truly reflected the sincerity of his gratitude.

The lynx went silent for a moment, "Don't die Doctor."

"I won't." He put his hand to his chest, his heart the place where people tell their souls lie in. The duty of a Persona-user according to the Velvet Room was to defeat these things, even so it was only natural for him to be nervous especially if your first battle with them was such a monstrosity. Like the previous guests of the Velvet Room he will not falter at this embodiment of depravity.

He changed his Persona into Wyvern once more; its resistance to physical attacks encompasses even explosions. It was what saved his life after all, his SP reservoir is in perfect shape so he can fight without conservation.

"Stay here Amiya." The Cautus nodded, unsure if she should follow his order but dismissed the thought. True, her ARTS is powerful and they could defeat the Shadow as soon as possible but if things go south…

She is their leader and like hell is he going to put her through such a risk.

He drew his weapon ready to put a fallen foe to rest, he faced his opponent not with resigned demise but with a determination to not die, a mask appeared on his face and without any movement it faded into particles of light and darkness.

"Hellhound!" The Persona erupted and charged towards the Shadow it seems that the enemy was stationary until attacked upon. Then again it might be because it was last vestiges of someone's repressed emotions, so autonomy is out of the question.

Double Fangs in use had the hound bite into its body and in response it swung its enormous sword, however as if it had any semblance of battle awareness it fired an explosive shell towards the Doctor.

In response to the incoming attack, he ran towards the side to avoid the explosion and to get behind the Shadow's view, then he unleashed his swordplay while the Hellhound fired off another Double Fangs, trying to sever the enemy's limbs although they proved to be impossible to cut.

Reunion was not a factor to worry about during this fight as they were reduced to scared little children after seeing Skullshatterer's transformation, so it was pretty easy to let loose. Now that he can use his Personas unimpeded this battle should be a cinch.

"Persona Change! Come Ophiuchus!" The Doctor summoned his true self and invoked his Frost Edge, the demonically noble hands of his Persona did a fast swipe from Skullshatterer's backside.

The Shadow was down for the count and with no time to waste he readied Jack Frost's Bufu to save some SP, lord knows he would need every point of it.

An icy explosion could be heard later, dust and ice scattered over the bounded field and the Reunion members that were stuck started to question reality because of the scenes that unfolded in front of them. Amiya peeked through the cover and was relieved that the battle was over, she had nothing to worry about after all.

The universe mocked Amiya's optimism after the dust settled however, as the Doctor and Skullshatterer's monstrous form are both present still.

"Heh...should have known that this ain't gonna be easy." A sudden lunge of the foe's blade was dodged at the closest second. The Doctor jumped backwards in order to get some distance, once again his grappling hook is useless, even the ground isn't capable to be grappled on for quicker descent.

"Frost Edge!" He called once more for his faithful Persona and attacked again attempting to bisect the Shadow with Ophiuchus.

In response, Skullshatterer countered with a swing of their blade and fired his grenade launcher once more.

Seeing that there was no time to get out of the way this time because he was closing in on the Shadow he changed his Persona to Wyvern.

"Gahhhhh!" The Doctor was shocked, how did that hurt him so severely then he noticed that the ground had ice sprouting, it wasn't the regular white ice that Personas produced. No, it was colored crimson and it crackled with black energy before dissipating afterwards.

Then came the realization that his shells had elements in them, in hindsight it was stupid to assume that only he can use elemental powers, since Personas and Shadows are the same it would be sensible to assume that they both have the same abilities or at least the potential for it.

Still, that didn't make the cough of blood any less painful as it was followed up a swing from the Shadow's blade, it still hurt even with the Resistance Wyvern has.

"Dia." He can feel the curing effects of the spell instantly and also used his remaining buff syringes. To go all out on this battle is his best course of action. At least this time he won't get scolded by Kal'tsit and Amiya for this encounter.

Oh who was he kidding? He'll still get chewed on regardless that's how his bond with them gets stronger after all.

Skullshatterer should have fired two rounds by now and judging from his weapon it can hold six, so he'll bait the Shadow into using them all up. Pelt him spells and he'll go down in an instant.

"That should leave him empty...hah...hah." He counted all of the shells his opponent fired, he managed to block the fire aspect of one with Ophiuchus but since it was also a Physical explosion he did not leave unscathed. The Doctor figured that there would be an electrical shell loaded into his chambers so he baited it out with Ophiuchus, the Shadow for some reason can instantly see the affinities of his Persona.

The Doctor was focused on the enemy's gestures specifically the movement of their arms, it was one of things that Dobermann instructed him on.

"During combat always focus on the movement of your opponent's limbs not on how you'll attack them." After all if you focus on attacking instead how to counter your opponent's movements then any strength you possess is worthless.

A fight is not about who is stronger it is about who can use their strength to its most effective manner.

Hence, the instant the Shadow was about to pull the trigger instead of getting distance and tanking it by changing to Pixie he had Wyvern attack from behind with Magna while Skullshatterer was focused on him. It threw off his aim, the barrel was aimed towards the sky, or rather the ceiling of the barrier, and when it fired the shell failed to blow anyone up only making crackling noises after the fact.

Turns out, his hunch was right about the Shadow only using elements that hit his current affinity weakness. This continued on until all chambers were empty from Skullshatterer's cartoonishly big grenade launcher.

"That should be enough right?" The Doctor breathed out between his tired sighs, he looked at his opponent doing absolutely nothing he still had his greatsword on hand so it would make sense for the Shadow to try and take his head off.

Instead he stood there menacingly, there was something odd about Skullshatterer's Shadow Self that's for sure.

"Gahhhhhh...What's happening!?"

The screams of pain came from one of the Reunion members hiding in the corner of the barrier, one of the ones scared shitless at their friend's new postmortem form. The Doctor and Amiya, who was peering through her cover, watched in horror as the soldier seemed to compress on his own, his screams of pain grew louder as his body gets remolded into a fleshy crimson grenade shell. All of this was happening while the former commander's body glowed a dark red aura.

This must represent the extent Skullshatterer's campaign of vengeance and retribution will go through, the willingness to use your comrades like ammunition just to end the lives of those you deem enemy.

The Doctor was so horrified that he didn't even hear Amiya's very audible vomiting.

"Oh my God Jace!" Apparently the unfortunate soul's friend had a tougher stomach as he too watched the named soldier get turn into ammunition for the Shadow's lingering vengeance.

Without a second thought, The Doctor launched another Bufu with Jack not wanting to see the power that shell of human sacrifice possessed.

"Rahhhhhhhh!" The monstrous howl of the Shadow was so strong that it sent his aim off-balance and threw him back a few meters from the target.

The Shadow glowed its aura once more, this time the other Reunion soldier was compressed into the same shape. No blood nor entrails leaked from the man's body and The Doctor and Amiya were helpless to the same sight, no doubt it will be something that will haunt their nightmares as the floating shells were loaded into the weapon's breach.

Suddenly gravity was a tad heavier to the others in the vicinity as the Shadow once again roared with such malice, a darker shade of crimson and orange radiated through the body of the Shadow. The Doctor couldn't move or could do anything, the least he could do was crawl and hope that Skullshatterer's Shadow had the aim of a Stormsoldier.

The Shadow must have been desperate to pull this move however as he noticed that blade of his was close to shattering and its posture was slightly off, the trade-off of such power must be its own vitality similar to the reason why his Persona's Physical Attacks cost a bit of his own life.

If the Shadow was Skullshatterer's lingering thoughts of animalistic vengeance then it would make sense for it to pull such a skill on them.

Them.

"Shit!" Even if he dies here it wouldn't guarantee Amiya's safety moreover her capability to kill the dead body that is trying to kill him.

The only thing the Doctor could do was stare at the barrel of Skullshatterer's modified grenade launcher charging his shot.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Once more I stared helplessly unable to do anything…
How long was it since he came back to us...I stopped counting after his year of absence.
I was able to crawl out of the cover we had even though the feeling of gravity was heavily forced upon us.

Once again he will go away because of my incompetence, if I did not kill Skullshatterer on impulse then we wouldn't have to be in this situation and those Reunion soldiers wouldn't suffer such a horrid death.

The voice was right I am a Monster, all I do is cause inconveniences for the people I care for, distracting Dr. Kal'tsit on her path to secure a cure for all Infected and forcing the Doctor to bail us out every time we lack the strength to get victory.

I am Amiya, an incompetent and useless Monster, for all the power that was given to my body I can't even protect him. I can't even follow his orders nor follow his advice.

I don't understand why my body is struggling to reach him but I have a feeling that this power had a duration, if I managed to distract Skullshatterer with my presence then it will all be worth it.

My body inched closer and closer, every centimeter covered was an inch closer to my death yet still I moved.

It was stupid and foolhardy but if there was a small glimmer of hope of his survival then it's fine, it was selfish of me but still I moved forgetting my responsibilities for Rhodes Island's future all to secure his.

I even lost faith in his strength...are they're no boundaries to my cruelty?

Ah...the Shadow, I think that's what these things are called, saw me. I watched the Doctor look at my direction in horror.

A fitting end for a Monster.

As I closed my eyes ready to meet Ace and the others on the other side I heard the Doctor's grunt of pain.

No…

He took the shot was supposed to be for me, it was like he forced himself to overcome the Shadow's trump card.

"Doctor!" I managed to scream out my anguish even with intense pressure the Shadow was oozing out.

Miraculously he was still alive, he had enough time to put up a defense that would ensure his survival. Why did he do that, if he had let me die then he would have an opportunity to continue fighting the Shadow he wasn't even that hurt, he learned from his mistakes during the last battle he fully participated in and kept his distance, he...he.

He grew while I stayed the same.

Even after all this time I wasn't unable to grow, I was stagnant and useless. Skullshatterer then decided to continue his attack on the Doctor instead of killing me, he charged his grenade launcher once more.

"Are you alright Amiya?" He still had the strength to talk even at the face of imminent death, "I'm sorry I wasn't strong enough…"

What do you have to apologize for? It's all me Doctor I was weak and helpless, stubborn even I wasn't any help at all. I wasn't able to provide backup nor was I able to follow your orders to retreat.

I can't do anything!

I can't stay even be sad at this point, all I had was my misery and sadness fueling my will and now it's all gone. I couldn't even use my life as a sacrifice for his survival. For all my power why can't I muster enough to save him?

Damn it all!

You really are a hopeless Monster…

I can feel a tightness in my chest as if my heartbeat alone is causing shockwaves stopping Skullshatterer in its tracks. My head felt like it was splitting open as if my mind and heart are turning against me for my own thoughts.

Are you just going to accept your powerlessness even though you possess such monstrous power?

The voice that was once antagonistic to me felt more comforting, and before I knew it I was also standing up overcoming the enemy's pressure. No, that voice wasn't malicious, after all if it was I wouldn't have agreed with it.

The word Monster, yes that what both my sadness and pride lie. I am a Monster of Rhodes and like the rest of my allies and friends I find solidarity in the similarities. As one of them I can stand with pride as my identity gives me the strength to help my home, to help him.

Look around you, you are not the only beast in this battlefield

The destruction and the bloodshed even in this simple mission was visible from the start, everywhere they go their always has to be someone to be killed.

Anyone can be a Monster my liege, even the one you hold so dear was once like you.
Anyone can spread misery and anyone can drown in it, there is no discrimination.
The ones you call friend and allies, they also have powers that warrant that title.

Yes, that is no more apparent than the Shadow before me, the little thought process his corpse can achieve was directed at questioning my resistance.

This monster before me however has nothing to protect, it is just the lingering sentiment of a peon who tried to steal those dear to me away.

The other you within your heart knows this all to well,
Even monsters have something to protect, they on the other hand…

These monsters before me causing potential irreparable damage to the dreams of many Infected under our wing. The ones who took away our friend, the ones hurting innocents, the ones taking pleasure in it.

If I am a monster, they are lesser than me!
They dare champion the ideals of righteousness and justice when all they do is undermine our sacrifices.

If you truly know that as truth then by all means be rampant and let loose.

"I will and will not back down!" Upon saying those words black and red energy spiraled around me and in my hand was a syringe of a similar color. The headache intensified and the only relief from it must be from this item I have on hand.

Now my liege take your first steps to your recovery, the misery you hold within your heart...let it be the source of your resolve!

Without hesitation I pointed the syringe to my neck and injected its contents inside my bloodstream and with it, came the pain that the Doctor must have have felt before.

How wonderful, now with this our contract has been set! Even in this hellish pain I can still make out the voice, her voice congratulating me, blood seeped out my eyes yet to only congealed into something covering my face. It was a mask made of my own blood.

I am thou, thou art I
The repression of your lament had been your undoing...
Now little Chimera, spill all the curses that you always wanted to say!

I was clawing out the clot that formed around my face, the mask of a leader and the responsibilities it entails, I was sick of pretending to be strong when I was weak the whole time. No more… I am already a Monster there is no point in suppressing this part of me!

Thus, I had howled.

"I denounce everything you lot stand for, the dreams you crushed with your actions without knowledge, the foolishness to lead the Infected to false promises all I have is nothing but the countless words of rage and despair I hid within my heart."

"Bring them the end...Miseria!" I broke off the mask that covered me and screamed out the voice's real name. A very audible crack reverberated from my rings, as if they weren't designed to contain the new power I have obtained.

The wind from the bounded field howled like the roar of a lion, the sand that blew towards my face felt like the tongue of a serpent. Behind was a figure molded from my own Shadow and the mask I broke off faded into light. The Shadow with its limited intelligence look at me, enraged perhaps that he remembered that I was the one who had made him like this, or rather I was the enabler of his malice to take shape.

Whatever the cause may be, I don't give a damn; the only thoughts I can spare is reserved for the safety of the Doctor.

"Now then…" My hand was immersed with my energy, "You shambling specter get the hell away from him!"

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Amiya instinctively ordered her new power to attack; firing a powerful projectile made of curses it knocked the Shadow away from its intended target. Then in a desperate attempt to counterattack Skullshatterer rushed towards her with its knife-now-sword.

To the Doctor's shock Amiya blocked it with her hand, there was something odd about it. On her fingertips were claws made out of the same energy her ARTS exudes and without hesitation she swiped her hands, breaking the Shadow's armament.

"Begone." From those same fingertips she fired her signature ARTS attack, blasting her foe far away.

This exchange was enough time for the Doctor to recover and shortly after casting a Dia on himself, he readied his stance.

"Amiya…" He was amazed at this new Amiya that stood before him, her doubts from before were gone. No, they didn't exist in the first place; she of all people knew the cost of what they set out to accomplish and the feelings associated with it seem to have dampened her resolve.

"Doctor...I'm sorry I took so long." There was no sadness in her voice, quite ironic from a power that is the manifestation of lament, in fact her voice was strong and determined, "You still gave so much for us when there is more that you have to do." The Doctor's burden of Rhodes Island and the task that being a Persona-user moreover being a Wildcard entails one of those tasks being the monster that stood before them.

"If I have to become what I know I am deep inside to lessen your burden then it is time I come to terms with it." She became a Monster because she repressed what she felt, in her pursuit of being useful as the leader of Rhodes she failed in both.

Skullshatterer tried to get up after that point-black attack but without hesitation Amiya commands her other self to cast, "Eiha."

"They dare say we don't know the pain of the Infected yet they are ignorant of the struggles Rhodes endured." Amiya's eyes glinted a brilliant yellow for a moment, "It's time we put this wayward spirit to rest Doctor."

Without warning Skullshatterer charged in once more with his broken weapon in hand but without hesitation Amiya charged in response, before the girl's actions based on emotion were once debilitating but now those same emotions were what pushed the enemy before them.

Deciding to not get in the way, the Doctor instead targeted Sukukaja on the bunny girl with claw made out of her ARTS. The speed buff made Amiya look like a deadly crimson tornado carving the Shadow's body with aggressive fervor.

"Once more Eiha!" She shouted in absolute rage, in fact she wouldn't to admit it but she was on a power high. The Cautus wondered if this was what the Doctor felt like when he awakened to his, that pondering did not stop her from tearing through the Shadow's body.

Contrary to Miseria's graceful appearance was the sheer violent nature her power holds; the slender bunny girl like design with robes akin to a funeral dress and a dancer's stitched together distracted the Doctor from the fact that her hands were the same as the claw on Amiya's dominant hand.

"Cut him down! Malice Cutter!" Miseria's hands glowed a dark crimson, a hue akin to blood and spun around the already downed Skullshatterer and not even giving time for the Shadow to recuperate she fired another Eiha at the enemy.

The resulting exchange led to the Shadow having a severed arm, the arm they used to fire that grenade launcher dissipated along with the weapon. The enemy could only shriek in agony as Amiya continued to follow up all that pain with ARTS and Eihas.

The Doctor couldn't help but be proud of her awakening to that Persona of hers, she was already a strong girl and now that power will make her more powerful than Talulah. He allowed her to indulge on her awakening's desire to rampage on their enemies, a common thing with Persona-users that awaken out of anger and desperation it seems.

However they still had to regroup with Hoshiguma and there is that affair with Misha, "Jack Frost."
A ice shard dropped to the sky and hit the corpse that was once their enemy, unceremoniously ending the Shadow's existence.

That did not stop the girl from blasting the slowly dissipating Shadow more and more. She was acting like a rabid animal, no that was enough for the Doctor.

"Amiya, Calm down!"

The Doctor embraced her from the back, taking her by surprise she accepted it and slowly reigned in her power.

"Hah...hah...Thank you Doctor…" Amiya breathed out, her exhaustion catching up to her, "It was out of character for me to enjoy that…" She stared at her hand, the claw that formed around it dissipated alongside her Persona. The Cautus didn't feel shame about her powers unlike before, it was like a weight has lifted from her soul.

"It's fine after all I was like that before, until you reigned me in." The two noticed the barrier slowly fading away and the enemies that surround the vicinity have fled, this area of the hideout became deserted. However the sounds of battle can be heard from behind them.

Amiya tried to stand up, however after the initial awakening and the skirmish after it her body felt like it was carrying a giant sack of potatoes. She collapsed after her third step towards the area where her comrades must be fighting.

"Don't push yourself" The Doctor immediately caught her mid-fall, "This should help with the fatigue." He called out Jack Frost, the snowman felt sad at the look that his other self and Amiya had, "Patra."
The Doctor commanded him to use the same spell that he used to stabilize Misha's condition and Jack glowed a green aura.

"Thank you Doctor." Amiya smiled warmly at the Doctor, her fatigue slowly going away at the very least she can walk. The fatigue brought about by a Persona awakening was still there but the power the Doctor holds made it bearable.

They took one last look at the remains of Skullshatterer, his body set free from his Shadow but the four Reunion members with him...they were gone their material bodies where truly consumed by the darkness within their leader. A child that was dragged into the mess of those older than him and he became a willing pawn just to sate his desire for vengeance, in order to save his perception of the world he only seen things in black and white.

"Well, there's no point in thinking of what ifs." The Doctor said that but they noticed the same crystal floating from Skullshatterer's body once more only it was ridden of its darkness.

"Is that crystal the source of his Shadow?" Amiya can see that as well? Apparently Persona-users that not necessarily the Wild-card can see the shenanigans that this Persona business entails.

"Was, it had a different color before." The Doctor decided to use his Soul Forage on it, the ability was worth a shot this was the first they have seen this phenomenon after all. The crystal responded and went to his head like any other Persona crystal before, Amiya stared in fascination and a tinge of horror at the assimilation process that she herself was oblivious too before.

The power that was held inside the crystal was not necessarily a new Persona but it was Persona-related , like the time he established his bond with W it was the potential inside him that awoken. The same potential that could have been Skullshatterer's power if he had acknowledge whatever his psyche was at odds with.

You have obtained the recipe to fuse Perun, a special Devil Persona.

Upon obtaining that power, the Doctor can feel slight understanding of the deceased commander's actions. Things that he didn't approve of but the emotions embedded within the crystal made him understand their former enemy's perspective.

However, be it as it may Reunion still hurt innocents for their own benefit. Those innocent Infected that he helped were one of the victims of their "with me or against me" mentality, if they truly wanted Infected salvation first and foremost then they wouldn't lay down their lives to get back at those that hurt them all they did was damn their friends and family to death and bloodshed painting a crimson target at every other Infected.

These people's inane desire for vengeance and retribution needs to be nipped in the bud.

To do that however, they first need to regroup with Rhodes Island and the LGD.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

The road to recovery was filled with nothing but blood and corpses of Reunion members that were left behind, seemingly by force as the enemy camp had to choice but regroup as evidenced by the trials of dragged blood; a similar effort like what happened with Skullshatterer. Escaping wasn't an option for the enemy anymore, it was either make a stance and get out of Lungmen guns a blazing or fail and be reduced to Originium dust.

The Doctor and Amiya had dampened looks on their faces, some of them must have been good people that were forced to take arms as they thought they had no other place to go, and some might only desire justice for the misery that unjustly experienced.

Regardless of intentions however they were going about it the wrong way; they were participants in hurting others that have no stake behind this conflict and thus lives were thrown and efforts were wasted.

Still that doesn't mean it was understandable and that understanding was what made the sights on the road more sorrowful.

They still have a mission to complete and a friend to secure they will mourn for these Infected that they have failed to save in their spare time, but for now they have to carry on wearing the masks that lets people go through life's hardships.

...

"That's pretty much what happened…" The Doctor concluded, the first thing he did after surviving his first Shadow encounter was to call back to Dr. Kal'tsit; the lynx had already beat him to contacting her as she was apparently observing the two of them while relaying tactical orders to his squad. A sudden surge of energy as she would like to call it erupted from the area the Doctor and Amiya were fighting in, a familiar yet different energy reading, this was Amiya's Persona.

Along with Lancet-3 was a hidden drone monitoring the Doctor's vitals apparently and from its video feed their powers seem to be invisible but sensible.

"Thank you Dr. Kal'tsit, the operation seems to go smoothly." No casualties, like how he needed this operation to go through.

Amiya was stabilized as soon as they reached their squad, while being tended to by Ansel and Hibiscus she pondered over her awakening and the consequences her knew power holds. Well for her it would be without question as to why she had a Spirit ARTS, in a way her power was what lead to her Persona after all. At least on paper that's a sufficient explanation but in truth the Persona was brought about by doing something about her own insecurities, while that was a step she isn't exactly rid of them.

Nobody bounces back that quick, even still she felt a little energized upon breaking that bloody mask and she did felt joy that she now has a similar power to the Doctor.

Suddenly, Ch'en came inside the tent her face while stoic, the Cautus can sense the frustration in her heart.

"Ah, Miss Ch'en is something the matter?" Amiya asked looking at the Lung while resting, she was done getting treatment from the two Medics but they left seeing that it was a private conversation between their leader and another.

The Lung produced a mobile phone from her pocket, "We checked for explosives on this thing, when that Sarkaz girl threw it to me she said it that someone wants to talk with you." Ch'en paused and examined Amiya, to her the Cautus seemed a bit different, "While I wouldn't trust the words of an enemy, it would give excellent insight of what is going on inside the enemy camp."

"Sarkaz girl...you mean W?" Amiya remembered that Hoshiguma fought W before running off while the Doctor faced towards the Shadow's imminent creation, then the Superintendent must have rendezvous with the Oni while they were away.

"So that was her name…" The Lung wondered if Rhodes had already encountered the woman on their escape from Chernobog.

"Yes...be careful with that." Without saying another word Ch'en left, re-evaluating her actions during the battle that the Doctor and Amiya were not present for, she was surprised that Dr. Kal'tsit of all people took command of Rhodes. Her only answer as to why is that the Doctor and the Cautus were busy with something far worse, and based on the Doctor's more brutal wounds unlike the time he collapsed out of exhaustion, she was inclined to believe it.

Was it the source of the terrifying roar from before? Why was there a monster in that area to begin with, Reunion was a lot of things that she now knew but weaponizing cryptids was pushing it. She could only sigh, now she knew what Rhodes felt like when they were withholding information from them.

On another note it seems that she was right about the Doctor having hidden strength, as Hoshiguma relayed what had transpired after the Doctor's failed assassination in amazement.

"You should have seen it Ch'en with one word all my injuries were healed and he just shrugged off a grenade blast point-blank!" Apparently the Doctor was as tough if not tougher than an Oni, and those Medical ARTS... why hasn't he used that power before on himself if it were that potent, then again the man looked like he was on running on fumes by the time she got there.

The Doctor went towards the direction of the Lung, still being able to walk briskly even though he doesn't look well, soot and sand dusted around his torso and lesions decorated his calf. He looked like a survivor from a grenade explosion.

"Are you sure that it's ok for you to move Doctor?"

"Injuries can be repaired." He paid no mind to his well-being, "I came here because Amiya called about something, something about a mobile phone."

The Lung sighed of course she would call the Doctor about this matter, "It was from that Sarkaz who took Misha, it wasn't loaded with anything volatile however."

In response the Doctor blinked, W sent that? What does she want in the first place? He noticed that W covertly reorganized her own men by going after Hoshiguma, she could always go after him like what they discussed in their initial meeting. The girl must have seen him panic or decided to leave him to her underlings.

"If it was an explosive you would have took the brunt of it." If they actually check for a bomb inside the phone they would have set if off, The Doctor wondered if she actually got to use those scrap parts she was scavenging for explosives.

"Indeed, in all honesty it was foolish of me to take that item without caution."

"Out of character even perhaps you caught it by reflex, the Sarkaz girl was probably doing that on orders." The Doctor decided to leave out W's name, the Lung would probably question his knowledge of that particular fact, at the very least he could say that the woman introduced herself while they were on Chernobog but being cautious always helped especially with the many tightropes his unique position demands he cross.

"Either way, this must be an eye-opener to you Superintendent?" He decided to tease her to cut the tension of the discussion.

Ch'en tensed at the jab of the tactician, "Don't call me that again Doctor."

"Alright, alright besides you and Swire teasing each other are your thing." The Lung flared her cheeks and started to shout Lungmen profanities at the medical professional.

Suddenly a tall figure gasped in mock shock, "How scandalous Miss Ch'en."
It was Hoshiguma, bandages applied on her arms and a gauze on her kneecaps. The Oni only suffered injuries from the explosives W had carried with her, still that didn't stop the giant woman from moving about like nothing happened, "Miss Swire would feel betrayed if she sees this."

"Don't say it like that girl and I are a couple Hoshiguma!" Embarrassed, the Lung forgot her choice words to the Doctor's teasing focusing instead on her partner's wisecracks.

"You two fight like a married couple in all honesty."

While the two descended into banter, the Doctor decided it was the best time to leave the conversation and hear straight to Amiya, making a mental note to question W if she's still alive after all this over the next time he meets the Sarkaz.

The Cautus was passing the time by playing a game on her miraculously not broken Zentendo Shift, some time in Zoo Intersection did some good to her current decline in mental strength. The chair inside the tent was what she needed, the fatigue of an Awakening while slightly lifted because of the Doctor's Patras was still there.

"You alright Amiya?" He made himself known and took out a portable chair, he sat beside her as he watched her save her game before getting into business, "Is this about the..."

She produced the earlier mobile phone that was sent via Sarkaz, the first thing the two see in it was a sticky note widget saying that they should check the voice recorder. Amiya did as instructed by the message left in the phone, the voice recorder only had one file in it labeled "To Amiya"

Disposable headphones at the ready, the two got closer with each other to account for the cord; each put an earbud in their ears. With a tense finger she tapped the file to play what the sender wanted her to hear.

The audio buzzed with nothing but chaos, this must have been taken during the battle earlier however what alarmed them was the screams of children; some of the non-combatants in Reunion must have failed to evacuated from the battle. Crying and the sounds of battle were the background music of the recording.

"Can you hear me Amiya...Doctor?"

It was Misha, their friend was there. At the very least the two were relieved that she was safe.

"Where is Alex's body!? Shit!" A voice in the background shouted at his ally, "Any report from Jace? What the hell happened to the Sniper squad backing them up?"

"They ran away after they said something outlandish, something about him rising from the dead like a zombie!" That didn't take a genius to figure out as to what Skullshatterer's true name was.

"What sort of excuse is that, I swear when I get my hands on Xin…"

The argument in the background was silenced by the sounds of ARTS being fired at their direction.

"They couldn't believe it too but I decided to him regardless…"
Misha's voice sounded empty, "I tried to find him and his friends again and I saw it for my myself." Her voice was shaken with fear, the image of Skullshatterer's Shadow must have been traumatizing.

"Do we have the potential to become something like that because we are Infected?" Misha paused, "Will we be beasts that the Doctor must kill?"

The audio clip ended abruptly but not before an audible explosion being heard from the last seconds of the clip. It was obvious that there was more words that Misha wanted to say but due to the battle was left unsaid.

"Doctor…" Amiya looked at him with a concerned expression, a battle is still brewing and by now their forces are already mobilizing once more. She wondered if she will be able to continue fighting even after feeling the downsides of awakening to her newfound power.

Another notification came from the communication devices of the two, saying that they should be ready and take part in the last stage of the operation, even with Amiya's condition not being optimal condition the Cautus wanted to be there and see this day to the end.

To both parties retreat is impossible, if Reunion wants to be free then they have to earn it and if Rhodes wants to complete their objective then they must take down those who in another destiny could have been a brother-in-arms.

The line between Infected and Non-Infected is blurred the moment they both put on their uniforms that much is certain.

It didn't matter either way they were stuck in a deadlock, and until it's over no one is done fighting.

- Oo-oOo-oO -

Dust settled in a makeshift refuge that Reunion had made, they knew that either death or freedom would welcome them after dusk. They prepared all that their group could muster, support from Chernobog would impossible to obtain as it would both disrupt their other plans and that this was a personal mission that was only approved by their leader.

The child did not knew any of it however, the nuance of war was lost on the cub; her motivation was the abandoned body of her sibling. Her heart wanted to give hope to her late brother's friends and new family.

She remembered that they were the same people that lead her brother to this path, they were the ones who destroyed their home. The cub did not hold it against them as she believed that she deserved all of this, for her negligence they lost everything.

"Skullshatterer? W said that it's time to go."

A weapon that was too heavy was dragged around the sand, they took everything that they could need. A knife and shells for the weapon was stockpiled in their coat and like a wraith they did not speak in response, a nod would do just fine.

To any passerby they walked like they are a soldier marching to their death, however that outcome was fine if not expected.

That and no one could see the cerulean embers swirling on Skullshatterer's coat.

Would you like to save the game?

Save successful.


Extra Turn: Gifts Long Overdue

Her birthday isn't exactly something she celebrated ever since she walked this path, sure she would buy something nice for herself and go drinking with Hoshiguma during those days but never has she had a proper celebration.

Not until Amiya and The Doctor heard about that fact anyways.

As expected Hoshiguma was the one who spilled the beans about her birthday, the Oni explained that the two overheard her distress as to what gift would suit the Lung and decided to take things to the next level.

Is it a twist of fate to think that the venue of her first party in years was at the same restaurant that she and her sister use to go to? Whelp Cove, looking at the same and new amenities the establishment now has, truly made her feel like time had passed it's been so long she since had been here.

Last time she was here, the only parties they were willing to hold here are for kids. Then again the last time she ate here was when she was ten, the restaurant stood the test of time all things considered.

All things considered it was actually fun, they ate they drank and Hoshiguma as always beat their peers in a drinking contest. There was cake shared and gifts opened, as much as the girl did not want to admit she appreciated the high-quality purse that Swire gave her. Moreover was the gift the Doctor and Amiya gave her, a custom Zentendo Shift designed after her weapons. It was handmade and not official but the quality and the thought behind it was touching so to speak.

Even though she wasn't here at least this birthday wasn't that bad, heck Amiya and the Doctor decided to perform music for them. No vocals but she can't help but admire the duo's musical ability.

How nice must it be to have a partner you can trust and do things together, other than fighting.

"Hey, is something wrong?" The Doctor suddenly asked her, he must have noticed the melancholy present on her face.

"It's nothing, this is just my serious face Doctor."

The Doctor was not convinced, "You say that but…" He looked at a currently distracted Hoshiguma downing another beer, "You feel a bit lonely huh?"

Ch'en was taken aback but she refused to show her emotions anymore, "Hoshiguma is always like that it's fine that she's enjoying the party, I'm grateful for this Doctor."

"What are friends for? Still you have the look of someone who's not satisfied."

Ch'en sighed as she knew that there was no winning with him, "I don't want to sound ungrateful Doctor but it's just not the same without her…"

"You miss someone?" The Doctor's eyes looked a bit sad, "Well it's fine to feel like that I'm sorry for prying."

"No, it's fine I'm really grateful for the party Doctor." In all honesty, she was flattered that the two decided to throw one even though they were at odds and are working for different organizations.

The Doctor's phone suddenly vibrated from his pocket, "I'm sorry I have to take this call Ch'en."

The Lungmenite nodded and let the man be, must have been one of the Rhodes Island Operators that couldn't attend.

She sighed and decided to mingle with the party-goers, her co-workers were hitting it off with the Rhodes Island Operators so easily so she might as well do the same. Hoshiguma was over at one of the tables having a drink-off with the Ursus native Operators while Swire was actually getting along with the meek Jessica.

"Hey your Frostleaf, right?"

"Oh hello Madame Ch'en, Happy Birthday." The girl politely greeted her, she is as her codename would suggest. Although, looking at her Ch'en then instantly she noticed something about the other girl's casual wear.

To be specific, the shirt she's wearing underneath her jacket.

"You listen to MASK?" The Vulpo's eyes widened at Ch'en's attempt at small talk.

"You too?" Frostleaf seemed like she wanted to talk more about that particular band but remembered what the LGD thinks about similar people to her, "You sure you want to talk about that with me? I am an Infected you know."

Ch'en went silent for awhile, "It doesn't matter, the only Infected that I disapprove of are those who threaten my home."

The Vulpo smiled, "Alright then, well about MASK...I've been a fan since day one."

"Oh, well I managed to stumble on them on a whim but I instantly fell in love with their music." Ch'en remembered the music player she filled with nothing but the musicians she liked, Alive Until Sunset and DDS along with MASK songs are the only things that take up that device's storage space, "Heck I even booked a vacation to Siesta because I heard a rumor that they'll be there along with the big names."

Frostleaf was impressed with birthday girl's dedication, she guessed that the rumors about the LGD Superintendent were too harsh. The Vulpo figured it'd be nice to talk about MASK with her and make friends.

Ch'en was thinking the same thing, and they didn't even noticed time pass by.

Suffice to say, the birthday girl was as tired as everyone else. The party's heat was dying down and it was getting late in the first place so everyone decided to go home.

"It was fun Madame Ch'en I'm happy to know that there was a MASK fan here." Frostleaf smiled and ran towards Projekt Red the two decided to return to Rhodes together.

Hoshiguma was carrying Swire on her back, the Feline looked wasted judging by the half-awake eyes and flushed face.

"Hey Ch'en I'm gonna carry Swire home if you don't mind." In response Ch'en nodded then she looked over and saw Amiya and Closure carrying a drunk Kal'tsit.

This unnerved the Lung to say the least.

"What happened to her?" Kal'tsit's face was uncharacteristically giddy and any sense of grace and pride the lynx woman carried was shattered, such is the power of alcohol.

"Closure and Warfarin coaxed her into drinking…" Amiya explained while Closure was chuckling to herself, "You do realize the punishment that Dr. Kal'tsit is going to give you two tomorrow?"

"Worth it, never knew the Doc could even drink like that." The devilish Sarkaz snickered at the memory, little did Amiya and Kal'tsit knew that the whole incident was recorded.

Amiya narrowed her eyes at Closure, "She drank one shot of Ursus Vodka, one."

To this Closure's chuckles turned into laughter, "Yeah, what a lightweight!"

"Heyyyyyy" Kal'tsit suddenly slurred out, "Where's the Doktahhhhh?"

Amiya sighed as she readjusted the lynx's arm on her shoulders, "The Doctor said that he had some unfinished business somewhere else and he still had to take care of the check."

"That's just like him, he's such a workaholic…*hic*" Kal'tsit whined to the heavens gaining some stares from passersby, "He makes time for usssss…but can he at least...*hic* take care of himself?"

Amiya chuckled weakly while Closure guffawed at the drunk's slurred speech.

"Alright...please do be careful Amiya." Ch'en said to the leader of Rhodes Island, still unnerved by the out of character Kal'tsit.

"We'll be escorted by Miss Shirayuki and a few of our own, we'll be fine."

She watched as everyone left the vicinity, for some reason she wanted to at least look at this place again. Was it out of nostalgia and regret? Well she didn't really celebrate her birthday all that much and it did really warm her heart that they took some time out of their lives to put together something like this; the coincidence of it being in her favorite childhood restaurant was a bit overwhelming.

"Mind if I walk you home?" The Doctor's voice brought her back to reality, slightly relieved even, as she was about to shed a tear.

Ch'en didn't mind the offer but, "Isn't there something that you're going to do after this?"

"The thing I'm gonna do is near your place so it all works out." The Doctor shrugged and Ch'en complied even though she still carried one of her swords, the Doctor is one of the few people that she actually got along with.

Seeing that she might as well take her offer they decided to go on their way, absorbing the nightlife that Lungmen still has even at this hour. The Doctor sometimes stopping by to buy some street food, the Lung couldn't help but chuckle at the wonder the Doctor has for her home.

"We're here." Ch'en said as they stopped by her condominium, the girl fiddled through her pocket for her key.

The Doctor chuckled weakly, "Sorry about that Ch'en I kinda slowed you down, you must have been exhausted even more."

"I didn't really mind, I like it when people feel wonder for my home." Ch'en's thoughts drifted towards a darker time but she quickly pulled back from it, "People usually think about LGD and the high commercial areas if they go to Lungmen."

Among the concrete jungle of Lungmen surrounded by lights and neon signs, for Ch'en the true spirit of Lungmen was the people, the finball stall two blocks away to the family diner that can fill both your stomach and soul with good food and sometimes good refreshments. The common folk enjoying and aspiring to be like their superiors through hard work, even those who were satisfied with their current life aspire to do better on their craft.

Yes, the true spirit of the Great City of Lungmen, progress and harmony.

That spirit is the reason why she continues to fight for her home even without her by her side.

"To be honest I was allured by the lights of Lungmen as well, but the more time I spent working here with you guys I managed to appreciate the good while being aware of the bad." The Doctor chuckled lightly as he fished out another meat bun from his plastic bag.

Ch'en was right to make friends with those two, honestly his appetite reminds her of…

Sudden heel clicks echoed from behind them, her condominium was a silent area so any sound would be slightly louder than usual, even footsteps. Ch'en turned around to the source of the noise and saw someone that caused her face to pale.

It was Talulah.

Ch'en instantly drew her sword from the sheath, she silently cursed as her other blade was at her place. She knew that she was going to fight her sooner or later but now? On her birthday of all things? Was this planned and was she set-up? The Doctor's face was slightly relieved even though they were the first who faced her wrath in Chernobog.

"Why the hell are you here!?"

"Sister what are you doing?" Talulah seemed terrified for the Reunion leader that she is, "Why are you pointing a sword at me?"

"Cut the crap, you know damn well why!"

Talulah's eyes wavered, "I don't really! I know that I was gone for a long time but it was for a good reason."

"Oh and what reason is that!" Red energy pulsed around the Lung until…

"Let me explain!" The Doctor's voice boomed throughput the silent neighborhood, thank god that all the buildings in the vicinity along with condominium rooms have sound insulation, "This might be strange for you Ch'en but can we talk about this? This is important for you two."

With a heavy heart she allowed the two possible conspirators inside her room, she buried her face at the fact that they have seen that even her living room is filled anime and game merchandise. A bookshelf dedicated to games and anime CDs was near the left of her TV while a cabinet that stored all her consoles and their respective accessories was at the right. A Zentendo Shift dock was near the TV's table unplugged.

"I've never knew that you became such a hardcore gamer…" Talulah didn't know how to respond at the fact that her sister was a closet Otaku, "and Music fan while I was gone." She followed up as the Draco girl noticed that CD albums stored in the TV Cabinet, kinda difficult to do so as the MASK CD in particular shined brilliantly among the darkness of the room.

"Zip it, have a seat and explain to me what the hell is going on."

The Doctor and Talulah complied as the man sighed, "Remember when the name Talulah was mentioned by Amiya as the leader of Reunion?"

Ch'en nodded, glaring at her estranged sister who in turn quivered at her sister's glare.

"Turns out that's quite a common name in Ursus."

"...What?" Was the reaction of the Lung, "That does not make any…"

"Even if it didn't, Talulah has been in my care for a while now so it wouldn't make sense for her to be big bad commander of Reunion." The Doctor dismissed the Lung's suspicions, "I didn't really know that you two were related until she talked to me about it."

"If that's the case then, why didn't you rushed in and come back to the family then?" Ch'en didn't understand what was going on anymore, should she be happy that her sister was not a war criminal or skeptical that this to good to be true.

Talulah looked sad as she finally explained her side, "I heard that a Talulah was running around Terra causing havoc for the Infected, even if I explained that I weren't that person I would be meeting uncle again and you know what would happen next right?"

How could Ch'en not know, it was one of the most ground-shaking event in her life.

"So until this whole Reunion debacle is resolved I can't see my safety in Lungmen, I'm sorry Sister."

Ch'en was silent, taking all this information in processing years of grief and loneliness is hard especially when said object was present in front of her.

"Then why…" Ch'en's voice was rough, as if on the verge of tears, "Why did you risk it now of all day?"

"Because it's your birthday." Talulah said so strongly that her earlier meekness was a contrasting memory.

"My…"

Talulah moved in to catch her thunderstruck sister in an embrace, shedding tears as for once in her life she was happy; try as Ch'en might she can't help but cry all the same.

"I missed so much of your life and I must have brought a lot of pain…" Talulah cried gripping her sister's shoulders never wanting to let go, "At the very least I wanted to greet on the day my precious sister was born."

"...Thank you sister."

Lights were opened and the two sisters have stopped their crying, "It is your birthday Ch'en you shouldn't cry like that, you as well Talulah." The Doctor cheerfully said as he set a cake on the living room table.

"Wait where did the cake…"

The Doctor piped the icing that came with the box quickly, "Talulah bought in on her way here." The icing said "Happy Birthday Hui-Chieh."

"You know I'm confused about Lungmen names so I just spelled out what I was familiar with."

Ch'en and Talulah chuckled at the Doctor's remark, "In that case why didn't you let Talulah do the icing then?"

"She's a klutz in all honesty." Talulah pouted as she stood up and took some saucers and forks.

After setting the saucers with the forks aside, Talulah and the Doctor sang her Happy Birthday in Lungmen and while this "party" was silent and brief it was one of the best Ch'en had.

"You two are leaving huh?" Ch'en said as the Doctor and Talulah put on their shoes and coats after they have cleaned up.

Talulah weakly chuckled, "I'm afraid so, luckily the Doctor knows how to get back to their base undetected."

"I see, in that case can I go in for one last hug." It was rare for Ch'en to act like a child again but they were making up for lost time.

"Sure." Suddenly Ch'en embraced her, "I promise I'll see you soon."

Dormina.

Ch'en quickly fell into slumber into her sister's arms. Talulah sighed as she carried her sibling in front of her carefully putting her into her bedroom and putting over a blanket over the sleeping dragon.

"I'm sorry dear sister." Talulah kissed her sister's forehead before leaving her bedroom, but not before leaving something hidden in her room.

The Doctor was waiting outside the condominium carrying and erasing all traces of Talulah being there, from the cake's box to the footsteps and butt grooves that the Draco girl have left behind. The man even sprayed some of the aerosol that was stored in the Lung's house to mask her scent, it was the house of an Investigator after all you can never be too sure.

"Thank you Doctor for accepting my request." Talulah still had the edge of a meek girl in her voice, it was harder to act like her meek self than the donning the mask of leader if she was to be honest.

The Doctor typed a message on his phone directed at the currently sleeping Ch'en, "I'm more than happy to assist you Talulah, I want you two to be happy too." He sighed weakly, pondering over what they did, "Still...I can't help but feel bad at what we did."

"Even though this truly happened, she'll think of this as a dream.' Talulah said slightly downtrodden, "But if I can give her a good dream for once then it's enough for me."

"Alright then, I guess I have to work to make it so you two will be reunited."

Talulah smiled, "Don't you mean we? You have Rhodes Island to help you with that."

"Yeah, to save everyone and to make a world that no family would be torn ever again." The Doctor put his hand to his chest, "For now a good dream is the best gift we could give her."

Talulah chuckled awkwardly, "Yeahhhhh...only that…"

"What did you do…" The Doctor asked out of concern, his gaze intensified while the Draco girl sweated and shrank on it.

"I kinda left eleven years worth of birthday gifts in her bedroom…"

An audible slap to the head reverberated as the Doctor sighed heavily, "Are you trying to get us killed!?" They couldn't go back and take back the presents as they didn't want to risk waking up Ch'en and using another Dormina on the dragon girl. That would just lead to the girl being even more suspicious of the two.

"Wait, wait...calm down." Talulah said as she gripped the man's shoulders as the Doctor was going to try anyways even though he doesn't have a key, that was what the grappling hook was for, "I borrowed some of my commander's reflective camouflage and hid it underneath her bed so were fine."

The Doctor stopped his struggle and sighed heavily once more, "Why didn't you told me that in the first place!?"

I awoke to the sound of my alarm in my bedroom, it said that the time was 7 AM.

My eyes flickered rapidly as I stretched out and prepared for another day at work, I desperately looked around for any sign of my sister's presence in my house only to find none.

"I knew it was too good to be true…" I was sad but at least it was a pleasant dream.

A ring echoed around the room, luckily I was already done taking a shower so I rushed in and checked my phone. There were only two messages in it, one from the Doctor and another from my boss, Wei Yanwu, dreading the latter I decided to open the first one.

"Uh...Ch'en you kinda collapsed while we were at entrance of your condo unit." So, the Doctor did escort me to my place that much was not a dream after all, "I left some medicine if you have a heavy head."

That would explain why I still have my clothes from yesterday on my body, quite considerate of him to not touch me after I apparently conked out.

Sighing heavily to myself I prepared some toast and coffee while I opened the TV to watch some news, while doing so I checked the other text message addressed to me.

"While it is not much, it is in my authority to give you the day off Officer Ch'en." Wait what? I continue to read the strange message Wei sent me, "Please use it to relax and recover your strength, Lungmen needs you to be at your best so think of it as a birthday gift from us."

Somehow, I felt like my birthday was too well-coordinated. I do feel tired for some reason, then again it must have been because of the party yesterday after that evening I'll keep it in mind to not let the other doctor drink again. Good thing I haven't slipped on my work attire otherwise I would be extremely annoyed.

I don't really have anything to do today without work so I decided to not be a workaholic for once and go enjoy my day off, I opened my new Zentendo Shift and feel the comfortable grip of the controllers then booted a game and let my fingers dance through the buttons and analog stick. An image of my sister's presence quickly appeared as it vanished beside me.

While it was a dream, that was the best dream I've ever had in years.


Aftermath

"Godddd My head hurts…what in Terra did I do?" Kal'tsit groaned at her room, aside her bed was some medication and water. It didn't take being the medical head of Rhodes to figure out that it was for hangovers, that could only mean that she drank alcohol.

That also means that somehow Closure put her up to it yesterday.

The strange thing about all this was she barely remembered what happened during the party after she was intoxicated, she quickly checked the other side of her bed if she had done the unthinkable and was relieved that it only was her bed that greeted her.

"Oh, you're already awake." Amiya suddenly opened the door to her room and set aside breakfast, presumably from the cafeteria, "Can you stand up?"

Kal'tsit answered her question by standing up and sitting down, "I'm an adult Amiya, I can handle a hangover." She immediately ate the meal that Amiya graciously took for her in order to take the medicine afterwards.

"Oh...that's good...I'll be on my way then Dr. Kal'tsit." Amiya for some reason wanted to hastily go outside, the girl wasn't really good at hiding things from her. She had to wonder, what happened yesterday to make her this nervous in her presence? Besides Kal'tsit wanted to confirm that she didn't do anything stupid while under alcoholic influence.

"Wait, what happened when I was drunk?" Amiya was suddenly distressed at the doctor's inquiring, as if she was afraid to divulge any of her actions yesterday.

The girl in question looked around the room, refusing to make eye contact.

"Amiya…" The Cautus wasn't doing any favors for the concerns of the older woman as such Kal'tsit intensified her glare.

Amiya gulped as she internally prepared for what she is about to say so she decided to take a seat at Kal'tsit cushy mattress.

"Well, first of all you kind of insulted Mr. SilverAsh…" The girl tried to put on her best smile even though her face screams embarrassed, "You said and I quote, "Stop pressuring him to $ #& your sisters, you limp-&*# $% crack-ass." " You can tell that the idea of swearing was uncomfortable for the child.

Kal'tsit did a spit-take after hearing that, she can already feel Rhodes Island's relationship with the Karlan Commercial Comapny plummet like a drone shot down.

"Fortunately, Mr. SilverAsh laughed it off...I think that he was also hammered at that time." That and the Karlan leader wasn't immature to take that to heart, the Feline man was quite fun to hang around apparently that maybe the reason why he gets along well with Siege.

Amiya, being sick of narrating yesterday's events decided to take out her phone and just show the lynx the answers that she seeks, "I can't do it, even I am flushed at recalling that time, thankfully Warfarin was kind enough (stupid enough) to make a recording of your intoxicated state."

"I knew it was those two…" Kal'tsit sighed as she braced herself and sooner after found another layer of self-loathing to explore.

There she was on the video, partying like a madwoman drinking so much booze that even the Ursus nationals of Rhodes were impressed and while chugging vodka she was treating Monst3r as a glorified wheelchair, she can tell that her "pet" was also embarrassed for the normally calm and collected Kal'tsit.

"What have I done…" Kal'tsit paled as she sees herself drunk singing at the karaoke, coaxing the sober and more mature in comparison Doctor to sing a duet with her; an activity the man seemed to reluctantly oblige.

The man was none the wiser over who was pinching his butt every five notes of the song.

A pause that lasted seconds but felt like a millennia was brought out to the room after watching the record Warfarin made, she'll get the two later but for now she can't muster the energy to even do that.

"Doctor Kal'tsit…"

"I'm taking the day off." The lynx woman quickly said.


Closure Report 0

When the Doctor first returned to the base there was one thing we forgot to mention to him, Kal'tsit instructed a team to scan the Doctor's body. While I was skeptical at first, I was in charge of the procedure that went on and we found strange energies emanating throughout his body.

Kal'tsit and I wondered if that thing behind him was the reason, the drone that captured proof of the spirit's existence was made using parts from Aegir. The other drones we deployed to survey the scene didn't show any sign of the thing even appearing, even with Aegir technology at our hands the least we could see is an apparition.

Contradictory of Dobermann and Amiya's reports.

For now, the secret of whatever the Doctor can now do is easily safe, not many groups let alone governments know what Aegir is in the first place. Still, it would teach the Doctor some good to be careful of showing his powers to the general public once he awakens from is slumber.

I should stop thinking about the ramifications of this wildcard of a variable known as the Doctor and focus on my findings instead.

The first time I saw the parameters my eyes dilated, he was in peak physical condition even though he was unconscious and was revived from is cryostatic state, as if his spirit was the one who pushed itself too far. Muscles that should have been stiff and bones that are deprived of calcium looked like they were untouched.

Yeah, I'm just relaying the medical information that Warfarin, my co-supervisor, explained to me.

One thing that puzzled the both of us was the energy readings of the ice in the vicinity it was dissimilar to the energy that the Doctor exuded as if the ARTS that the Doctor had changed into another energy signature.

No person on Terra, not even the Aegir are capable of that much as it is physically impossible within the confines of ARTS studies. The scholars here even scoffed at my "innocent question" about that possibility.

In short, the Doctor is without a doubt an anomaly in this planet. I know the man from before and he did not exhibit any of this potential or was aware of it existing, the least he could with ARTS is heat up his mouth so he can eat instant noodles just by pouring water, seasoning, and the noodles.

Not sure of what we should do about the data we collected from the Doctor, we decided to lock it deep within the Ark's database.

Perhaps some pet projects of mine would become possible and successful if I enlist the Doctor to help me with it, It is a win-win scenario either way so it would be hard to decline.


Party

The Doctor – LV 14 -
Hooksword: Amber Hook
"A hooksword with a mystical stone on the pommel, the metal of the blade shines brilliantly. It's mystique strengthens magical prowess.."
Protector: Hardened T-Shirt
"A t-shirt that is made of hard fibers, not sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of casual wear.
Accessory Ring: Silver Ring
"A common ring made of silver, shines bright."
Accessory Pendant: Silver Cross
"The cross is a religious symbol of Laterano, its religion is starting to spread even overseas."
Outfit: Modified Tactician's Jacket
"A modified version of the Doctor's apparel, symbolizing the birth of the Doctor's new identity."

Personas
Ophiuchus LV 14 (LV UP!) [The Fool]
Jack Frost LV 12 (Lv UP!) [The Magician]
Wyvern LV 7 [The Chariot]
Hellhound LV 8 [The Chariot]
Pixie LV 5 [The Lovers]

Amiya – LV 12 -
Claw Ring: Beast
"The power that manifests with her Persona, it is a ring that assists in making a physical construct out of her ARTS."
Protector: Combat Blouse
"Made out of hard fibers, it does not discount the grace of the blouse's design."
Unchangeable Accessory: Limiter System of Ten Rings
"Special rings that limit Amiya's ARTS output lest she be consumed by her own power, it's a mystery how they came to be. A riddle that Dr. Kal'tsit is not inclined to share. "
Accessory Pendant: None
Accessory Ring: None
Outfit: Old Jacket
"It belonged to the person that Amiya holds dear, she personally does the laundry of this specific article of clothing."

Personal Skills
Spirit Burst
Cooldown: 4 turns (160 seconds)
Deals severe ARTS damage to one target, afterwards Amiya's debuffed in all stats for a turn/time limit.

Persona

Miseria LV 12 [The Magician]
Trait: Threads of Lament
"Curse skills have a medium chance of inflicting either a Defense down or a random status ailment."
Skills
Eiha, Malice Cutter (Light Physical Skill with Curse), Tarukaja
Resists: Curse
Weaknesses: Light

"The daughter of Nyx and the twin of the god Momos, her name is Latin for misery. She is the personification of grief, anxiety, and depression."


Fusion Unlocked

Perun LV 42
Arcana: The Devil
Obtained from: Skullshatterer
Recipe: Kresnik + Kudlak
"Kudlak is the embodiment of evil while Kresnik is the champion of good in Slavic mythos that Kresnik is said to connected to Perun but it's unknown if the nemesis of Kudlak and that Kresnik are connected."
Skills: Ziodyne, Elec Amp, Raikouzan
Weaknesses: Earth
Drains: Thunder
Resists: Fire
Trait: Divine Lineage
Increases overall magic power immensely.
"The brother of Ognyena from the Slavic mythos he is the son of Svarog and the counterpart of the Norse godof thunder furthermore he usurped his father's throne and became the head deity of the pantheon."

Babel LV 38
Arcana: The Tower
Obtained from: Assiociate Rank 1: W
Recipe: Legion + Remiel + Belphegor
" Legion represents the people that wanted to be united, Remiel is also known as the Thunder of God so he acts as the proxy of the fusion, Belphegor is a Tower Persona in P5Royal and he has the syllable of "bel" "
Skills: Belflame (Heavy Fire Spell that does a random shock, freeze, or burn effect.) Fire Amp, Vajra Blast, Maragion
Weaknesses: Thunder, Earth
Resists: Fire, Physical
Null: Curse
Trait: Tower of Hubris
Technical damage does 1.5 extra damage, attacks have a chance for Confusion.
"In christian faith, this tower is said to be the one wanted to reach God. However as punishment for their hubris, God smited the tower with lightning causing the tower to collapse and be beset in flames. Thus as a symbol of humanity's unity the tongues of mankind were altered so that they will learn from their folly."


Items List

Stalwart Crystal
"A crystal that exudes enduring energy."
Vigor Crystal
"A crystal that radiates aggressive vitality."
Sanity Potion
"Increases SP by 100, has a cooldown of usage however."
Curinall
"A syringe of medicine that stimulates repair, recovers approximately 50 HP and gives a slightly regeneration effect for a while."
Tarukazine
"Secret medicine obtained by using Vigor Crystals that the Doctor procured, when used it briefly increases the recipient's combat ability."
Rakukazine
"Secret medicine obtained by using Stalwart Crystals that the Doctor procured, when used it briefly increases the recipient's defensive ability."
Amber Hook
"A hooksword with a mystical stone on the pommel, the metal of the blade shines brilliantly. It's mystique strengthens magical prowess."


Author Notes

Been too long I'm sure, I'm aware of how long this chapter took to make for what it is. I did my best with making Episode 3's events occur similarly while retaining logical difference because of the nature of the powers that were established. Needless to say this is one of the chapters I would immediately rewrite once the main narrative is done or in delay because this story will change depending on how Arknights treats the fates of their characters.

Honestly, with online classes now at my dinner plate things will take a lot of time to be written. Including the fact that I am typing on a new device and I have to wait a week because Windows 10's word processor is stuck behind a pay-wall I can't afford and my stupid head didn't just download a different one. Or the times where I have to take care of my health. Nevertheless I will do my best to tell this story even though I think this particular chapter has problems that I will rectify in the near future.

TL: DR, I'm not confident of this chapter but I will press on because of you guys even though I experienced a lot of setbacks this time.

So, the party of Persona-users is starting to expand. My inspiration and logic for Amiya's awakening and Persona came from her Promotion Quotes and what Blaze says about her in Partial Necrosis. A beast that is both sad and enraged at their enemies for what they aim to do to their loved ones is what I was going for. Any mysteries about that or the debut of the Shadows we usually see in Persona will be addressed in the next chapter. The next one will be the conclusion of this world's version of Episode 3.

Also, the special that was dedicate to Ch'en was a belated celebration to the Lung's birthday in July.

The game details that I include as extra information came from the planned game, I was actually thinking of making either a classic Persona like RPG or an Action-RPG like P5S, something that I might do in the future as a project since I'm also an aspiring game developer currently in college for it.

In the future I will also include fan-illustrations of the new Personas in this story as visual aid. Granted I admit that my drawing skills are to my opinion subpar at the moment but it'll be good practice.

Still though, I'm really grateful for you guys sticking with me even with my shortcomings.

Once again, I, WordBound thank you for reading.

(On a sidenote I should probably release a separate compendium for Personas as an archive.)


Next Turn: Turn 5: Until It's Over