Persona 3: Minato Arisato, the first wild card

by DarkDragon1407

The Wild Card is unpredictable. During a card game, he suddenly appears and turns everything upside down, giving the loser a chance to become a winner. When the world changed due to the games of the gods, the first ever Wild Card appeared on the table, knowing his own shadows and controlling a power he never asked for. His name is Minato Arisato. And this is the story of his return

12. Let's rescue Fuuka Yamagishi!

Now I have to make some announcements, the way in which the dialogues are presented has been changed, the previous chapters have already been modified and some of them even have new additions. Without more to say, enjoy the new chapter.

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Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009
Gekkoukan High School - Entrance

- Good morning - Yukari greeted - You know what? From this day on, I'm going to do my best! - Minato knew that she always tried her best, but that she had said it had other intentions.

- Good luck? - said Minato confused by her attitude

- Do you even know what I'm talking about? - was starting to get irritated with him, he had no choice but to refuse, lying to him would only be worse - About the rumors! I'm starting to believe that Junpei did brainwash you with his idiocy.

- Hey, that offends! - said Minato exaggerating his reaction just like a certain someone else.

- Wait a minute... Did I just look like him?

- Minato, I want us to meet right now. I'm sure Junpei brainwashed you - said Orpheus - There is no better psychologist, than a blow with my harp; you don't have to worry, I'll try not to kill you...I hope so.

- I'm sure you won't kill him, I mean, just look at him. He's escaped death several times - commented Magician

- Well, whatever. You'd better find everything you can. Remember we only have until Friday - ordered Yukari - I'm counting on you.

- Is it just me, or is she so insistent when she's interested in something? - asked Jack Frost

- I pity the Master, although he reminds me of Titania with that character - said Oberon.

- Oberon is married? That's new - said Pyro Jack

Gekkoukan High School - During classes, Classroom 2-F

- Ah...This phrase "susamajiku monkey" is also in "Ugetsu Monogatari" - said teacher Ekoda to the class, this teacher had a bad reputation with most students - There is one of the stories in "Ugetsu Monogatari" that talks about a ghostly wife - Minato could observe how Yukari started to tense up at the mention of the word

- What a story full of mysteries, yet very touching... Speaking of which, I know a ghost story, do you want to hear it - asked Ekoda to the whole class

- Yes, I can't wait to hear it! - shouted Junpei

- Junpei...I doubt you'll make it out of this alive.

- Then his friend, who entered the tunnel with him, without warning began to shout "There's a girl behind you!" Obfuscated, overflowing with terror, he ran home. But from that day on, he began to hear heartbreaking sounds every night - his tone of voice began to change to add a little more excitement to the story - One night he heard a voice, faintly saying...Let me in...Let me in...Let me in. But as far as he knew, the room adjacent to his own was empty...One night, he decided to knock on the wall where the sounds were coming from. Suddenly he heard a voice come and shout in his ear... This here! And here comes the newest member of my family, despite everything, he grew up to become an ordinary man - the whole class sighed except for Yukari at the end of her story.

- Geez, what a boring way to end a story - said Magician who was sitting on the floor next to Minato, "How do you think Yukari would react if she knew you saw ghosts?

- W-what? It's a true story! I dread the day he wants to marry an unfortunate girl... What's wrong, Takeba? You look pale - said Ekoda, the bell began to ring, ending today's class.

As it was always, all the students, started to get up from their seats. Minato watched as Yukari approached Junpei's seat.

- What's the matter? - asked Junpei surprised by his behavior, as an answer he received a slap from Yukari that sent him flying out of his seat

- Don't you dare do that again - said Yukari before leaving the classroom.

- Damn, that slap was scary! - said Magician approaching Junpei's body who was lying motionless on the floor, he squatted down to take a better look at her face - Minato, this is spectacular! Come, you must see how her face looks like!

- Yes, we should never make her angry - commented Orpheus - And worse to mention something about ghosts

Gekkoukan High School - After school, Home Economics Classroom

Minato had to admit it, sewing is not easy! To start sewing garments, one needed to learn techniques to give volume and to be able to close with zippers or buttons to the creations. The list of techniques could increase or decrease depending on the garment to be sewn, among the different techniques were: sewing darts, interfacing and sewing views, gathering, making buttonholes, sewing elastic bodkins, sewing a button and putting zippers. The ideal is to practice these techniques on fabric scraps that we will keep as samples in a file cabinet with their respective notes and annotations. This way we will learn the essence of the technique on our own and not in the middle of assembling a garment was the explanation offered by Bebe.

These techniques exist in different levels of difficulty and with many variables. Bebe had shown one of the first garments as an example, a zipper can be invisible, hidden in the seam, mounted in plain sight, it can be sewn at different points of the garment, we can shorten it, and continue the enumeration depending on the finish and type of fabric we are working with. The garment they would find themselves sewing today would be from a magazine that Bebe had chosen, Minato did not know that in this type of magazines there were sketches of the dress from all possible angles, including the fabric used and the color used, but that in the end it was up to the decision of the person in charge to sew.

At first it was difficult for Minato to learn how to use a sewing machine, it was the first time he used this in his life, he had to learn every part of the equipment if he wanted to use it perfectly. Thanks to Bebe's help, as time went by, two sewing machines were in perfect continuous sync.

- For today our work is done-owari! - exclaimed Bebe, causing Minato to lean back on his work table - Minato-san, are you all right?

- How is it possible, that you did everything by yourself? - asked Minato, it was just his first day in this club, but so many things to have in mind, it seemed to be a big burden.

- I learned through a lot of reading and manuals, it's complicated at first. But when you master it, it's so perfect! - his eyes were misty with joy - Minato-san, I have something to ask you.

- What is it? - Minato asked

- Let's go to the Candy Shop. It's my first time going there. - asked Bebe

- Sure, we can go to the one on the shopping street in Iwatodai - replied Minato getting up from his seat.

- You're the best! Thank you, arigatou! - exclaims Bebe happily at the acceptance of his request - We'll go, together! My tomodachi, my friend!

Iwatodai Shopping District - Candy Store

- Minato-san, I didn't know that you love chocolate so much - Bebe commented - It's amazing, how you ate 20 desserts, all by yourself.

- I can't help it... Chocolate is one of my weaknesses - said Minato a little embarrassed.

- Those desserts were delicious! I'm so happy ureshi! I love Nippon culture! - shouted Bebe attracting the attention of the people passing by.

- Why do you like it so much? - asked Minato

- For its incredible natural scenery! Its majestic temples, castles! The exciting summer festivals! The chance to bathe in a hot spring! And how can I forget the karaoke! - said Bebe with such enthusiasm

- Can we try karaoke? Hee Hoo! - asked Jack Frost with the same energy as Bebe.

- Let me think about it... NO!

- The culture in Japan is number one, Ichiban! I wish I was born here - Bebe looked so happy - I want to learn more about Nippon and become Japanese! Thanks for bringing me here, Minato-san Arrigatou!

- I have a question, do you live alone or with a family member? - Minato-san asked

- I live with my aunt, thanks to her I have the chance to be here! - said Bebe - I must tell you that I made a great friend! Tomodachi!' looked very grateful to Minato's company.

- Oh, look at the time! - Minato checked his wristwatch, verifying that it was already late - I'd like to ask you a few more things about Nippon. Talk to you later! Sayonara!

- A friend? Huh?

Iwatodai Dorm - First floor, living room, evening

- What's up? - Minato was greeted by Junpei's greeting - Hey, let's go to Tartarus today, people with Apathy Syndrome are everywhere and it seems like it's only getting worse.

- So it's started, we should be prepared - said Orpheus.

- Besides, there are some weird rumors going around the school - said Junpei, that last thing caught his attention - We need to let off some steam.

- We won't go today - replied Minato

- What? Why not!? - Junpei asked. Minato pointed behind the counter to see how Yukari was looking into the rumors.

- I thought those stories were false...But, she seems to be taking it very, very seriously - said Junpei with his typical smile - Is it the power of the Junpei Zone?

- Huh!? What did you just say!? - said Yukari, apparently she had managed to hear him, despite the distance between them.

- Oh shit...He pissed her off

- Ugh...I wonder why I said that - said Yukari in disgust - Yeah, it's Junpei's fault! It's all Junpei's fault! The Junpei Zone!? He really is dumber than he looks!

- Well, good luck. Even if we don't learn anything from it, it still looks like fun to investigate. I'm looking forward to the results - commented Akihiko.

- Senpai, next time we go to Tartarus. You're going to pay - said Minato already with a great idea in mind.

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009
Gekkoukan High School - Entrance

- How are you? - greeted Junpei in the form of a question - Hey, are you looking for information about that ghost story?

- A little bit... - said Minato looking away.

- I know you're lying, come on! In my case, I have better things to do, I'll just leave it to Yuka-tan - said Junpei - Besides, I already have my fill of scary stories up my sleeve. I bet you couldn't stand the fear when I told that story. They say it's true.

- In that case, you don't have any problem receiving a Garu from Yukari, do you? - Minato asked sarcastically

- There is no better satisfaction than threatening Junpei - said Orpheus.

- Oh come on, you know those attacks make my butt hurt! - complained Junpei

- I guess I can't leave all the work to Yukari, I'll have to start investigating.

Gekkoukan High School - First Floor, Lobby

- Alright, let the information gathering begin - said Orpheus - And how do we start?

- By asking all the students we find here. As the rumor has spread and everyone knows about it, there will be different versions of it; so the most appropriate thing for this situation will be to write down everything and find similarities between all the versions, this way we will find the correct version.

- Master, I have a question. No doubt your abilities to investigate things are at another level, how did you learn that? -asked Oberon

- Hiroshi has several acquaintances, among them is the Shirogane family, a family of detectives. During my stay with him, I managed to establish a friendship with Naoto, the youngest member of that family, she taught me some principles, which I am using now, now that I think about it, every time we talked, she had a sad look on her face just like her grandfather every time he saw me. ... Enough talk, it's time to gather information

All the information he manages to gather, he writes them down in a notebook he always carries, ever since he started his investigation of Yukari's stalker

Rumor 1: "That girl who collapsed in my class. I heard she was going to run away from home and stay out all night. That's probably why she ended up like that."
Rumor 2: "One of the students who collapsed was in my sister's class, I guess she was running away from home too. I heard she always hung out with bullies and they would go to that place."
Rumor 3: "I thought I could get some information, but I didn't find anything. All three of them passed out, but they were in different classes and different clubs too, all their friends are known to be thugs"
Rumor 4: "Everyone is talking about the ghost, and that kind of stuff...I hate that kind of jokes, Like the ghost will come for you, if you stay too long in school"
Rumor 5/Unnecessary comment: "Did you hear? Mitsuru-senpai wants a studious man, Maybe I should study more. IF I become smarter than my class, she might accept me, even if I'm a girl..."

Gekkoukan High School - Rooftop

- Okay, I have to say it. What the hell with that girl's last comment? - Orpheus asked

- To think that Mitsuru-senpai has that kind of fans... - said Minato.

- Well, at least we concluded that it's not a ghost story - said Minato checking the notes he had recorded in his notebook - Apparently she ran away from home to meet with some thugs.

- But apparently she wasn't the only one hanging out with those thugs - said Jack Frost.

- Just as you just said, it seemed to be a group of friends who always met to go to the same place - said Minato - And it seems that this Maki, is not the only one who has collapsed, in these days, two more girls have also done so. That's why the rumor has spread so fast, but I don't know what they mean by that place?

- I remind you that in 5 days it's full moon... And we haven't found Yukari's stalker either - said Orpheus.

- You really know how to cheer someone up, Orpheus - said Minato.

- I think we should be careful with Oberon, when we want to talk to a girl - said Pyro Jack.

- Huh? What do you mean? - asked Minato confused

- You see Minato, how can I explain it? Do you know the story about him? - asked Orpheus

- Of Oberon? He is described as a benevolent being by the Fae, although others claim he is quite malicious when a certain incident affects the welfare of his kingdom and its people. He is polite and sometimes even friendly to humans, however, he can be a selfish and short-tempered ruler, often falling in love and flirting with human women... - Minato already knew where this was going - Oberon Is he serious?

- I can't help it, human women, they have great charm. However, I will never mess with your beloved, you have my word - said Oberon.

- I appreciate that. Wait, no! I didn't mean that! - immediately retracting what he just said - Orpheus is enough, I don't need another one.

- Hey, you always know how to offend me - said Orpheus - But, leaving that aside. So you're thankful that Oberon doesn't go after Yukari, my boy is already learning.

- Leave me alone

Iwatodai dormitory - Minato's room, Night

- Enough research for today - I turn off his desk lamp, he had barely returned to the bedroom, I dedicate to research more about the rumors. As he got up to turn off the lights in his room, he heard a female scream coming from the upper floor.

- Fuck it, the rumors are becoming true! - said Jack Frost with fear in his voice

- Hey, I got that reference - said Magician

- Reference? What do you mean? - asked Minato

Priestess appeared shushing Magician by putting her hand on his mouth - Remember that Magician is an idiot, now we're leaving - ordered Priestess, to which Magician nodded and in the process both of them evaporated.

- Are we sure they're my shadows? ...I mean, I'm not like that, am I? - wondered Minato - We'd better go and investigate whose scream it was.

- Minato is the man - said Orpheus

Iwatodai Dormitory - Third Floor, Corridors

As he went up to the third corridor, he found a somewhat agitated Yukari - Yukari-san are you alright?

- Minato-kun? What are you doing here? - They both knew how Mitsuru felt about the presence of the men on this floor.

- I heard a scream and came to see what was going on - Minato answered.

- Sorry, it was me. This sucks...I've spent so much time thinking about ghost stories that I've even had nightmares about it - said Yukari.

- Don't try so hard - Yukari could notice some concern in his tone of voice and that was unusual for him.

- Don't worry. I'm fine - she said with a smile - Have you done any research on the ghost story? - Minato nodded - Really? I thought you were going to be busy to take care of the ghost story.

- I am not Junpei, I remind you - said Minato.

- I've heard so many different stories. I don't know what's true and what's not - said Yukari sighing - Maybe it's all a lie...

- Oberon, get a hold of yourself! Remember what you promised Minato! - shouted Orpheus in Minato's head - Jack Frost! Freeze him!

- Leave it to me Hee Hoo! - replied Jack Frost - Brother! Help me, he's out of control!

- Charge! Hee Hoo! - shouted Pyro Jack joining the fray that had ensued.

- What the hell are you doing in my body?

Thursday, June 4, 2009
Iwatodai Shopping District - Pato-Loco Burgers

The duck patties are fluffy as usual. Minato had decided to go out with Kenji, he wanted to use the "favor" he owed him to get more information about the rumors.

- Hey, Emiri is..., that's Miss Kanou's first name, anyway Emiri is very popular with the boys. Although, in a way I kind of got her out of their sight a little bit you know? I mean, I made her mine before the others had a chance. Emiri is a very strict teacher...But at home she's a real sweetheart, always - It didn't seem like Kenji was going to finish talking - Attractive people are only attracted to other attractive people. It's like a rule, it's like they're destined to be together.

- Attractive where? - asked all Minato's Personas at the same time.

- Kenji, where is attractive in you? - said Minato friedly

- Hey, don't take it so seriously, I'm just playing! Well Emiri is very sexy - said Kenji while blushing - What about you Minato? How are you and Yukari-san doing? I wish you all the happiness in the world

- It's only during these moments that I like Kenji - said Orpheus.

- Hey, don't tell anyone about me and Emiri, okay? Teachers are not allowed to go out with their students. I trust you, Minato - said Kenji.

- Although if I told anyone. I'm 100% sure no one would believe me.

- Kenji, I need to collect the favor you owe me - said Minato.

- Sure. What do you want? - asked Kenji

- What do you know about the rumors about the girl in class 2-E? - asked Minato

- Is that so? The other time at the mall I heard someone talking about it - said Kenji - Some people think that since the girl was found at the entrance of the school, they think it was some crime scene. If this girl was attacked somewhere else, the perpetrator would have taken the body to the Gekkoukan, and everyone thinks our school is highly involved in this, which is ruining our reputation, some people think this girl went to that place.

- To that place? - asked Minato

- The place behind Port Island station, man that place is full of thugs - said Kenji in disgust

- Bingo!

- Why do you want to know about this rumor? - asked Kenji

- Since there are so many versions, I would like to know which one is true - answered Minato.

- Is it to impress someone? Now that we were talking about this, I have a plan I want to execute with Emiri... - Kenji once again, he seemed not to finish talking about her.

- Somebody shut him up! Before I kill him! - said Oberon

- Well, the grumpy ruler thing fits him like a glove - said Orpheus.

Friday, June 5th, 2009
Gekkoukan High School - After school, classroom 2-F

- Well, today is Friday. Did you get any information as agreed? - asked Yukari

- Did we agree on anything for today? - asked Junpei

- Junpei I told you on Monday! - an irritated Yukari was starting to show.

- I know, I know! I'm just kidding! - said Junpei calming her down - What a temper you have, woman!

- Then I'll see you in the dorm after school, don't forget! - ordered Yukari

Gekkoukan High School - Student Council Hall

- Is Odagairi absent today too? - asked Mitsuru to the rest

- Umm...no...I think he's busy - replied Chihiro

- Doing what? - continued Mitsuru

- Busy playing IDIOT - said one student, he always seemed to get irritated every time they talked about Hidetoshi

- Oh...you mean what Fushimi was telling me earlier, I see... - said Mitsuru - Well, his intentions are good, so I can't really blame him. But, I understand how you feel. You can leave if you like, I'm sorry for all the drama caused, except for you Arisato. I need to talk some things over with you

The remaining members started to leave with the exception of Chihiro and Minato - Chihiro-san, you can go now - said Minato.

- But you will stay alone with her - said Chihiro a bit angry.

- Huh? Don't worry, it won't be anything serious, take care of yourself - said Minato, Chihiro with no more options left the room - Is something wrong, Mitsuru-senpai?

- How is the investigation going? - asked Mitsuru

- We have managed to gather a lot of information, today I will have a meeting with Junpei and Yukari about this investigation, to reach a conclusion - informed Minato.

- Keep it up and another thing Arisato Is it true that you tried to spy on the female dressing room? -asked Mitsuru making Minato's eyes widen like saucers - Judging by your reaction those rumors are false, I'm glad I checked it out.

- Something makes me think it was Hirai…

- Just summon me and I'll take care of burning his genitals, you have my word - said Orpheus.

- Hey, we don't want to kill anyone... Although, if it's Hirai, I can think about it.

- The master is a sadist, I like him! - said Oberon

Gekkoukan High School - First floor, club hallway

As he was descending the stairs to reach the second floor, he heard several screams. When he saw who they were coming from, he came across a scene between Hidetoshi and Hirai.

- So where's your evidence, genius!? - Hirai asked angrily.

- No need for evidence, I know all about you - Hidetoshi replied nonchalantly - You got in trouble for beating up a guy in the park just because he bumped into you, didn't you?

- Whoa It's him again! That's the third person he's accused today... - said a student who was watching the whole thing

- Idiot, he's going to get himself killed, if he goes on like this - said Orpheus

- My boyfriend was so furious today, it turns out that I accused him too. He's crying out to be torn to pieces - said another student.

- Keeping quiet won't help you in the least. If it's not you, give me some names - said Hidetoshi - Don't worry, I won't tell anyone. You have my word as members of the Discipline Committee.

- Shut your mouth, asshole - replied Hirai, punching Hidetoshi in the face, as he walked away, the other students who were watching started to do the same, only Minato and Hidetoshi were left.

- Tch! Don't think I'll let this go! - refuted Hidetoshi as he stood up - Minato... It seems like you want to tell me something.

- You need to calm down Hidetoshi, you can't go on like this - said Minato.

- Do you think so too? - the rest of Hidetoshi showed disappointment - If we let people get away with breaking the rules, things will only get worse. One day a spiral out of control will be too great and there will be nothing we can do.

- Yes, but the only one I see that is losing control, is you Hidetoshi - said Minato - You are starting to accuse everyone, without any evidence.

- We must deal with the problem now, while we can. I know what people think of me - said Hidetoshi - But those who seek justice always end up facing those who escape it, history has always proved it. So let this serve as a warning to him from the other offenders.

- And when justice is not enough? - Minato asked, confusing Hidetoshi - Just as there are those who seek justice, there are those who have the power to corrupt that justice.

- Minato, you are a very sensitive person... You understand, don't you? - Hidetoshi asked - You may leave, I'll go to the student council room to finish some things - leaving Minato alone.

- So sensitive you have that hair Hee Hoo! - said Jack Frost

- What you just said, you don't make any sense, you know? - said Oberon

- So you're just going to let things end like that? - asked Magician - We both know you could have stopped him from getting hit, but you still didn't do it. And talking about justice with you is not a good topic of conversation, don't you think?

- If he goes on like this, his personality will lean towards dominance, selfishness and even cruelty - said Minato scratching the back of his head - Let's stop this guy from getting killed.

- That's the way to talk! - shouted Magician

Gekkoukan High School - Student Council Hall, late afternoon.

- Minato, are you still here? - asked Hidetoshi when he saw how Minato had entered the room, he didn't answer the question, what he did was to grab him by the collar of his shirt.

- Listen to me, right now. Let's do things my way, to prevent you from getting into more trouble - Minato ordered - Is that clear? Good, let's get started.

- What's this all about? - Hidetoshi was in shock at Minato's sudden change.

- Isn't it obvious? You don't know anything about trust and friendship - said Minato - All I see now is an emperor who abuses his power, who can be stabbed at any moment. What is that, accusing without proof?

- Hirai, he is suspicious. His behavior exceeds all the standards of a diligent student - Hidetoshi answered.

- We all know that, if you suspect him so much. Then show me the evidence - Minato extended his hand, waiting for the evidence, but it never came - See what I mean? Besides, why so interested in catching this smoker? And don't tell me it's for the welfare of the school, we both know it's not so; if that were the case. Every student would want to be on the disciplinary committee.

- ...If I can catch him, I will be recommended to become the student council president next year," Hidetoshi said, looking away.

- Is that why? Even if you benefit, that teacher will benefit at the same time. I'm sure that a teacher catching that smoker will increase his reputation - said Minato in disgust - But if that ends all of this, then let's catch that smoker.

- How will we do it? We don't have any evidence - Hidetoshi was finally starting to cooperate.

- You're telling me you don't have any evidence? - Hidetoshi ducked his head at his question - Well, you're already learning to trust me. Let's start then - Minato unplugged his headphones from his player, he noticed how Hidetoshi was staring at him - What? I'm not doing this without music - he had found the perfect music to start investigating - I hope you like Mass Destruction - the music started to play leaving Hidetoshi who was still watching Minato all confused.

- You have as good musical taste as me, Minato - said Orpheus - I think we should start calling you the Ace Detective of Gekkoukan, we can be your Watson.

- Ooh yeah Dada-dada, dada-dada, dada-dada - hummed Jack Frost.

- Baby baby baby Dada-dada, dada-dada, dada-dada - began Pyro Jack in a duet with his brother - Look Oberon's started dancing.

- He's pulling out the forbidden steps. That's the way to do it Oberon! - Orpheus was still encouraging his partner

- That's how I conquered my beloved Titania - a proud Oberon could be heard.

Minato was taking a deep breath, ignoring the fact that his Personas were having a party inside him - Shall we start?

- I have 3 main suspects. Two are third years and the last one you already know Hirai - Hidetoshi answered.

- I want to write down on the blackboard, every point he is going to say - Hidetoshi nodded - As in any case, we must put ourselves in each other's shoes to understand why he does that. Most smokers started the habit when they were teenagers. According to several studies some teenagers indicate that they "just wanted to try", or that smoking seemed "cool", "cool" or "super". How many cigarette butts have you found?

- That's a total of 5 I've found this week. Should we assume that our smoker is an addict? - asked Hidetoshi to which Minato nodded.

- Yes, addiction is characterized by the repetitive and compulsive search or use of a substance, in this case it would be nicotine, even though they know it is dangerous for them, they can't stop this obsession - Minato explained - But he doesn't know that sooner or later he will give himself away. Quitting or reducing cigarette consumption causes both physical and mental nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

- Then we should just observe his behavior, to find him - said Hidetoshi, writing down everything Minato said on the blackboard.

- Physically, their body reacts to the absence of nicotine. Mentally, they are faced with having to kick the habit, which requires a major change in behavior. Emotionally, they may feel as if they have lost their best friend; but this is where the hardest part comes for you - said Minato- You must stop verbally accusing them.

- But if they are our suspects, why not face them? - disgusted at Minato's comment

- You are abusing your power. For example, would you engage in conversation with someone who is aggressive towards you or does he inspire confidence in you? - there was no answer from him - I thought so, if you want to meet the smoker, you will have to change your behavior, be more accessible to others; I know you will be able to do it.

- Minato, do you trust anyone? - Hidetoshi asked, a little afraid of his answer.

- Trusting the wrong person can bring us problems, cause us economic losses or psychological damage, but not trusting others can also seriously harm us, we do not become someone without a soul - a part of him knew that this answer was not only directed to Hidetoshi.

- Are you thinking the same as me? That answer doesn't remind you of a certain person - said Magician with his typical smile.

- We live in a society that is based on trust. Unfortunately, not everyone is trustworthy. While, in general, most people want to do the right thing, stay out of trouble with others and be appreciated by others, there are circumstances that can lead to less prosocial behavior. Despite everything I have told you, it seems that I am beginning to trust several people... - Minato finished saying.

- Minato, I apologize for my previous behavior, in the corridors of the clubs - said Hidetoshi embarrassed.

- It's not necessary, just promise me that you will start to trust someone; and the most important thing not to abuse the power you have. Let's find that smoker and end this, it will be interesting to see you as president of the student council - said Minato

- Your musical taste, it's interesting - said Hidetoshi - I never thought you would let someone listen to your music.

- If I were to marry someone, I'd let them listen to my whole album. And I would share my earphone with that person - said Minato - So feel privileged.

- Really? I just have to make Yukari listen to your whole music album? - Orpheus asked - Guys, change of plans. Let's forget the ice statue.

- Orpheus! I've been working on this all day! Hee Hoo! - said Jack Frost angrily

- I told you it was a bad idea, about the statue, didn't something like that happen with Hirai? - asked Oberon

- Yes, but in his case it was mud. We were going to take a riskier step - answered Orpheus.

- You and me, we need to talk seriously...

Minato's cell phone started ringing - This is Arisato.

- Minato-kun, where the hell are you?! - an angry Yukari could be heard, that even Hidetoshi was a bit disturbed...

- I'm still at school. Why? - asked Minato scratching the back of his head.

- You forgot our meeting! - Yukari shouted, Minato gratefully pulled the cell phone away from his ear.

- What are you talking about? It's still early - Minato looked out the window, realizing that Yukari was right. He was so focused on helping Hidetoshi, he didn't notice how long it took - I'll be right there! - he hung up the call, picking up his player and saying goodbye to Hidetoshi, he left the living room.

- Have I been soulless all this time? - Hidetoshi asked himself, looking at all the notes he made on the blackboard next to Minato.

Iwatodai Dormitory - First floor, living room

- Okay, as we agreed on Monday, we met to discuss the information we found - were the words given by Yukari to start this meeting.

- I think we should let him catch his breath... - said Junpei, Minato was lying on the ground catching his breath, most of the way he was running - But hey, you really took this seriously.

- Of course, I got a lot of good information - Yukari said with a smile - It turns out that there is no ghost involved.

- Oh So that's the most important thing? - said Junpei

- To begin with, let's talk about how this rumor started. Since the girl was found in front of the school, there's at least a coincidence with the ghost story, but why did the rumor spread so fast if this was the only thing that was known? - the question was directed to both boys

- Because there were three victims - said Minato, finally getting up from the floor.

- That's right! That surprised me...In the following days, there were two similar accidents. All three victims had to be hospitalized. That's why people kept talking about it - said Yukari, Junpei who hadn't investigated anything, was amazed at the amount of information that was being provided - Now. The victims are in different classes, and they don't seem to be connected. Still, they had one thing in common What was it?

- What is this, a quiz show? - Junpei asked. Minato had taken out his agenda showing it to Junpei, he was pointing to a particular part - Ammmm, they were dating together?

- Yep That's right! Not just once, not even twice. They started having bad meetings, and ended up staying out late on the street, it can't be just a coincidence. So to find out what happened, we should do some field work - Yukari proposed.

- Oh no, I don't like where this is going.

- Field work? Are you kidding? - asked Junpei somewhat worried

- Yes, the place where the three victims went regularly - said Yukari.

- Wait, you're not talking about that place behind Port Island station, are you? - asked Junpei, to which Yukari nodded - You can't go there! I've heard some grotesque rumors about that place!

- Have you? Then we should all go together - Yukari's insistence seemed to have no limits, now her gaze was fixed on Minato - Will you come, right?

- I can't believe I'm going to say this, but I agree with Junpei - replied Minato.

- Come on! Don't you have an adventurous spirit? - asked Yukari

- Forget it, that place is bad news...I mean don't you think we're taking this too seriously? - Junpei suggested that as an excuse

- So far, all we've done is take orders. Is that okay with you? - asked Yukari

- I know what you mean, but does it really have to be like this? - Minato mentally encouraged Junpei to persuade her - I guess I don't have a choice do I? - ending with Minato mentally cursing Junpei.

- Okay, then we'll go tomorrow night - Yukari finished with a smirk.

- All because of your stupid area - Minato complained to Junpei.

- Shit...We're in for a big one - said a disgusted Junpei. The bedroom door opened revealing Mitsuru - Welcome, Senpai.

- Do you know where Akihiko is? - asked Mitsuru ignoring Iori's greeting.

- She is in her room, she said she was going to train - answered Yukari. The trio just watched as Mitsuru walked up the stairs - Why is she always like that?

- Wait, he just arrived? Where is he all this time then?

- Minato, we have problems with Oberon again - warned Orpheus - Right now, Jack Frost has him frozen, good thing he's weak to ice.

- I expect a reward for this Orpheus - said Jack Frost.

Iwatodai dormitory - Akihiko's room

- What's the matter? You usually never visit me like this, unless it's something important - said Akihiko.

- It's about Arisato - leaving Akihiko confused - Today I asked everyone from the council, that they could leave because of a drama caused by Odagiri, when I was coming back. I had forgotten a list that Fushimi had given me, when I returned to the room I found Arisato and Odagiri.

- Doing? - asked Akihiko

- They were investigating a possible culprit about someone who smokes, but that's not what worries me - said Mitsuru - What worries me is Arisato's ability, to investigate and delimit the problem to solve, to find the common thread, to define his space and the sources to consult, and he is not satisfied with just the superficial. When I was listening to the information they had, Arisato even suggested studying the behavior of the culprits to certain stimuli, both external and internal, such as trust.

- Let me get this straight. Are you trying to say that he doesn't trust us? - asked Akihiko

- Most likely, before they finished their research. Arisato gave his meaning of what trust is for him, but more importantly, what if he finds out? - said Mitsuru - There is a possibility that if he gets that information he will leave the team.

- Maybe, that could be the reason that always happens outside - commented Akihiko - What do we do? We have come so far, we can't afford to lose members at an important time like this, if we lose Minato, we lose the others. Which means our expeditions to Tartarus are over. I never imagined that Minato had such an ability.

- We are in a tricky situation, if we start to engage in friendly talks with him. He may become suspicious, because of the change in our behavior towards him - said Mitsuru.

- This is bad, I think he has been distrusting us since the beginning - said Akihiko surprising Mitsuru - Do you remember when we proposed him to join SEES? Ikutsuki had commented, that they had been investigating him some time ago, more than enough reason to start suspecting him from that point.

- A good point, and on our part, too careless. From that moment on we gave him the opening to start distrusting us. So why did he join? - asked Mitsuru - Do you think he did?

- Yes, there is a possibility that he wants to find out the truth, behind everything, the real reason behind the death of his parents - said Akihiko - Just when we thought things were going well. Hell, even when they fought that shadow in the subway; he was already prepared...I have an idea. Have him accompany me on one of my patrols during the Dark Hour, I'll try to find out what his real intentions are.

- It's a long shot, but it's the only option we have. Our relationship with Iori and Takeba is not the best, so we won't be able to get information about Arisato out of him - said Mitsuru - Do what you have to do Akihiko, don't let him find out the truth.

Saturday, June 6th, 2009
Iwatodai Dormitory - First floor, living room, evening

- Well, it's time to go - said Yukari.

- What's your hurry? I still think this is a bad idea - replied Junpei - How can you be afraid of ghosts, but not this?

- He has a good point - said all the Personas

- It's easy to be afraid of something you can't see, isn't it? - asked Yukari

- I wouldn't be so sure about that, the thing to be afraid of the most is humans - replied Minato.

- In fact, I worry more about things I can see, like bats and knives! - Junpei had a good point

- What do bats have to do with it?

- Big deal, it's just a bit of "danger" - Yukari said so matter-of-factly - Come on, this is an adventure - She finished saying to get out of the dormitory.

- Excuse me? Orpheus was right, you are very dangerous. I remind you that we can't carry our Evoker, so we don't have any way to defend ourselves...

- More like a suicide mission. Minato, we're going to die aren't we? - asked Junpei

- This is a bummer, but if we don't follow it, it will be worse," replied Minato.

- Well... Let's follow Yuka-tan's lead, I guess," Junpei finished saying.

Tatsumi Port Island - Alley

Numerous boys and girls are out on the street at this late hour of the night. The trio had arrived on the scene

- Damn, this reminds me of the first orphanage I was in.

- Such a hostile environment, I feel like I could be killed at any moment - said Magician - Oh right, no one can see me, it's not fair!

- What the hell? - wondered one of the thugs on the scene, when he saw the trio of teenagers.

- Look at those rags, they come from Gekkoukan High School - said the bully's friend.

- Man, this is worse than I thought - said Junpei in fear.

- Hey, you guys, I think you're in the wrong place - said the first bully.

- Well... I... - Junpei didn't know what to say because he was so scared.

- You don't belong here. - said the first bully - Deal with it, goat.

- Goat? Oh, by my beard - said Junpei more nervous than he was already. Minato could feel his legs trembling with fear running through his body.

- We don't need your permission to be here - Yukari defended herself.

- H-hey! Are you crazy? Take a look around! - Junpei shouted

- I'm not blind, you know. Come on, don't let this scum bother you! - said Yukari confidently.

- What was that? - asked the first bully

- She just called us "scum" - said a voluptuous girl in a red dress sitting on top of a garbage can - We could post some pictures and make their daddies cry! They'll wish they were never born! Come on Tadashi, make them suffer!

- Oh my God! That was so good! Hahahaha - laughed the girls in the place.

- You don't have to tell me Akane! Akira take care of the emo - ordered the one called Tadashi.

- Bad choice of words, for the wrong people

- Minato, let us take care of this scum. We promise to leave them alive - an all threatening Orpheus started to manifest himself.

- These people are the worst - complained Yukari.

- You should learn to shut your mouth. Man, I feel sorry for you, little goat. This bitch is a pain in the ass - said Tadashi before kicking Junpei in his stomach leaving him on the ground grunting in pain.

- Junpei! - shouted Yukari

- How about you emo, do you want to take a beating too? - now the one called Akira was in front of Minato thundering his fists.

- Akira! Be gentle with him, he's not bad at all - said Akane with a big smile, Minato had seen those smiles many times before.

- I'm sorry, I'm not available for people like you - Minato was looking at his right palm - Junpei, can you stand up?

- Yes... In pain, but I can - said Junpei.

- Well, I entrust Yukari to you - said Minato.

- Are you ignoring me, you piece of trash? - said Akira menacingly.

- He's just trying to be a hero! - said Tadashi laughing.

- Come on, it's time to show them that they messed with the wrong guy - said Magician

Minato was face to face against Akira, he put his right foot forward leaving his opponent confused. He extended his whole right arm upwards towards Akira's face hitting with the wrist of his hand on his jaw, everyone present just watched as Akira just knelt down in front of Minato falling unconscious to the ground.

- Akira? what the hell do you think you're doing? - asked Tadashi

- Guys, let's stay out of this, our boy has it under control - said Orpheus - He makes me prouder every day.

- Go, go, go, go! Tear them apart! Hee Hoo! - cheered the Jack Brothers

- Execute them! Off with their heads! - shouted Oberon

- Yes! Cut off their heads... Wait, cut off their what? - asked Orpheus.

- The sound of the blow wasn't as I expected, I'm rusty... - said Minato starting to move his right shoulder in circles - Relax, I didn't break his jaw. So he's not in any danger - these words were directed to Tadashi.

- Relax Orpheus, leave this to me. I haven't fought hand-to-hand for a long time.

- Well, are you next? I can't knock you unconscious or you won't be able to take your friend to his parents - such words only irritated Tadashi, who started the attack and threw a punch with his right arm that Minato easily dodged. Minato seizing the opportunity grabbed the wrist of his right hand pulling his body towards him, while with his right fist he hit his stomach making him fall on his knees to the ground grunting in pain.

- Isn't it nice when they do the same to you? - asked Minato sarcastically - I wonder what his parents would think if he sent them a picture of how pathetic they look now?

This only made Tadashi more irritated, who was still unwilling to give up. He stood up once again adopting a fighting stance that made no sense at all. Minato could only sigh before his insistence, before Tadashi had time to throw a punch he received a direct kick to the genitals, making him once again fall to the ground.

- You must teach me that kick! - said Magician who was watching the whole fight together with the boys, even though they couldn't see him.

- You know, that kick has a name Kin Geri. It's always effective - said Minato leaving Tadashi writhing in pain on the ground. He started a voice complaining, to see how the first man he had knocked down had regained consciousness - You guys don't know when to surrender.

- That's enough - said a familiar voice. Out of the alley came that boy in the red trench coat who saw the hospital with Akihiko - They didn't know what they were getting into, I'll make sure they leave.

- Who do you think you are? Do you want some of this too? - Akira said threateningly, throwing a punch at him who was dodged very easily, the boy headbutted Akira, knocking him backwards to the ground.

- You crossed the line! Do you think you're going to make it home alive!? - said Akira who was still lying on the floor.

- Do you want to try? - asked the boy in the red trench coat

- I don't mind, if I have to fight again, how about if I team up with you? - suggested Minato

- Uhh...T-To hell with it - Akira had given up getting up from the ground.

- Damn you Shinjiro - said Tadashi who had recovered, - That's right...You're from the Gekkoukan, aren't you!?

- You'd better have eyes on your back! You'll regret it! - was Akira's last warning before retreating in pain with Tadashi's help.

- They're garbage, let's better go. See you dear - said Akane winking at Minato. Minato waved his hand in disgust.

- Minato, Senpai You were amazing! - Junpei shouted

- Hey, I remember you guys. You clowns were in Aki's room at the hospital - said Shinjiro - You idiots! Get out of here, this is no place for you!

- Wait! We came here for a reason! - said Yukari

- Aki said to come to this place? - asked Shinjiro

- Yeah, sort of - answered Minato

- Stupid idea... What do you want to know? About that ghost story? - asked Shinjiro who was sitting on some small steps.

- Um yeah, how did you know? - asked Yukari surprised

- It's a rumor. Those girls who are in the hospital injured, they were talking shit every night here, about all the things they did to one Fuuka - replied Shinjiro.

- Fuuka, you mean Fuuka Yamagishi from class 2-E, they were bothering her? - said Junpei

- That's why people are going around saying, Fuuka's spirit did it - replied Shinjiro

- Fuuka's spirit...? Wait, what do you mean by that!? - asked Yukari fearing the worst

- Don't they know? This girl named Fuuka must be dead - Shinjiro answered - She hasn't been home for over a week.

- Junpei, didn't you say she was in the hospital!? - asked Minato who was upset.

- How did a ghost story turn into this? - asked Orpheus

- That's what everyone says! I thought she was just sick - replied Junpei - But she's missing?

- So much for a ghost story - commented Yukari - Mr. Ekoda is the teacher of classroom 2-E, right? Does he know anything about this?

- I get it Aki...Still trying to repair the past. It's you, the one who can't let it go - said Shinjiro confusing the rest.

- So I wasn't entirely wrong...Akihiko lost someone, that's why he's constantly searching for power.

- That's all I know, satisfied? - asked Shinjiro

- Y-yes! Thank you Senpai! - Junpei thanked, but the others said nothing - Come on, show a little appreciation.

- Thank you - said Minato at Junpei's insistence.

- Don't you dare come back - said Shinjiro.

- Um, thank you very much. You even gave us a hint...You're very kind - said Yukari.

- It's okay Oberon, do you think you can handle the guy? - asked Orpheus - She hasn't even dedicated those words to us, we have to eliminate the competition.

- Orpheus, wants to secure the Arisato lineage...He scares me more and more every day - said Jack Frost

- Huh? - Shinjiro gave an intimidating look at Yukari's comment.

- I, um...forget it - said Yukari nervously.

- Tch...don't come back - said Shinjiro before retreating.

Iwatodai Dormitory - First floor, living room, evening

- I told you it wasn't a great idea to go. If Shinjiro-san hadn't helped us, we'd be... Shit! I'm not going there anymore! - exclaims Junpei

- I remind you that we shouldn't thank Shinjiro-san - said Yukari - Minato-kun, thank you for protecting us.

- Alright, how many thanks have you given us so far? - asked Orpheus

- About 4 or 5, we still haven't reached the goal of 10 - answered Pyro Jack - Oh please! Oberon is losing control again

- I got it! Hee Hoo! - said Jack Frost

- Oh that's right, thanks man! You can always be counted on! - said Junpei

- What did Minato do? - asked Akihiko

- Senpai, you should have seen him. He looked like a damn ninja, that he could fight, that was no bragging - said Junpei enthusiastically.

- Yeah, he even knocked one out with one punch. I didn't know you were so strong Minato-kun - said Yukari.

- Appearances can be deceiving my dear, behind all that emo avenger appearance. There is a man with a lot of suffering looking for help...But he is also in shape, you should take advantage of 2x1 - said Magician

- Since when did I become a television product?

- Can we stop talking about me? We have more important matters to attend to - said Minato.

- Yamagishi, he has disappeared... It started as a ghost story, and ended in a serious situation. We must do something... - said Mitsuru.

- I have a question, why is Shinjiro-san in that place? He seems like a very nice guy - asked Yukari

- Um I don't know - answered Junpei.

- But, he wouldn't have saved us if he wasn't a friendly guy, right? - asked Yukari questioning Junpei - I don't know why he's trying to act so rude...This description, he reminds me of someone - now her gaze was fixed on Minato

- At last! Some recognition! - said Orpheus

- When have I ever acted rude to you? Except calling Junpei an idiot - said Minato - Wait, let me correct myself, Stupei.

- Stop calling me that! - said Junpei in his defense.

- Why does he always change the subject? - thought Yukari - Minato, what are you trying to hide?

Sunday, June 7th, 2009
Naganaki Temple

Minato who was on his way to pray at the shrine, was pleasantly surprised to see Yukari and Junpei, accompanied by a child.

- Oh, Minato-kun. Let me introduce Ken-kun - said Yukari when she saw him.

- Nice to meet you. My name is Ken Amada - introduced the boy - Do you know Yukari-san and Junpei-san?

- Yes, I do. We live in the same dormitory - answered Minato.

- Really? I didn't know that boys and girls could sleep in the same dorm - said Ken, alarming the three of them.

- Umm, uhh, well...it's just that - Yukari didn't know what excuse to make.

- We're an exception! We have good reasons to stay together... - said Junpei.

- Excuse me, are you Minato Arisato? - asked Ken

- How do you know my name? I haven't introduced myself properly yet - said Minato.

- Yukari-san is always talking about how she wants to help a blue-haired friend - said Ken,- Whenever we talk, she says she always has a sad look on her face.

- How long has she been watching me? This is starting to be worrying...

- Ken! Minato-kun, forget what he said...Kids with their things, don't you think? - said Yukari with a chuckle trying to divert attention.

- Yukari-san and Junpei-san often give me advice, especially Yukari-san! Their advice is quite useful - said Ken

- No big deal Ken-kun, Minato-kun's advice is better - said Yukari.

- I'm just trying to help. Well, enough, let me introduce myself properly - said Minato - Minato Arisato, you can call me Minato, Beloved.

- You can call me Ken, I hope I can count on you - said Ken with a smile.

- He is a very mature boy... What happened to him?

- I talk a lot with Ken-kun in this place. He's much more reliable than Stupei - said Yukari.

- I can really believe it - said Orpheus.

- Geez, Yuka-tan, you're so mean... Besides, I'm much more mature than Ken, don't you think so? - asked Junpei

- Ken is more mature - replied Minato

- Really? why do you guys always have to be so mean to the dumb ones...? - asked Junpei disappointed

- Minato-chan! - the voice of a girl he knew interrupted the conversation.

- Maiko? What are you doing here? On Sundays you have private lessons - said Minato surprised to see her, who had approached the circle.

- I didn't have any today, so I came to see you! - said Maiko excited - Who are they?

- Maiko, they with Yukari, Junpei and Ken - introduced Minato.

- Nice to meet you! I'm Minato-chan's friend, so I hope we'll get along well - said Maiko with an innocent smile - Hey, have you seen Stripes?

- Stripes? Who's that? - asked Minato who had been dragged by Maiko to the game, while the others were watching them.

- We were playing tag...But it's no fun when you can't find him - Maiko answered, a slim young man in a striped shirt approached them - Hey Stripes! You don't look so good, are you sick?

- A little bit yes, I'm surprised you noticed - answered the thin young man.

- Huh? S-so, are you sick? - asked Maiko who was getting sad

- Ha ha, I'm not just kidding. You're so easy to fool, Maiko - said the young man faking his biggest smile.

- It's not fair, I'm an innocent little girl, that's why I believed you! - said Maiko pouting, then ran off and got on the slide.

- And you are? - asked the skinny young man

- I'm Maiko's friend, Minato - he answered.

- So you're the boy I was talking about. I wondered who you were - said the young man - Are you too old to play with children, or are you still young at heart?

Before Minato could answer, they were interrupted by Maiko - Hey! I'm hungry! I want takoyaki! Takoyaki! - who was shouting from the top of the slide - Can you go with us, Stripes!

- Nah, I'm fine, thanks - replied the young man - I'll see you guys later - he said before walking away.

- Is it my idea, or does he seem to be too weak?

- He's gone...- said Maiko, who had already come down the slide - I usually see him here, every Sunday, I call him Rayas because of his shirt, and now it's takoyaki time! Shall we invite your friends?

- Not a bad idea - said Minato - Guys! Who's going to eat takoyaki, my treat?

- Sounds great! - Junpei replied in approval.

- If he's buying, we have to take advantage of it - said Yukari with a laugh - Come on, let's go Ken-kun!

Iwatodai shopping district - "Octapia" food stand

- They're so hot! I feel like I'm going to get burned! - said Maiko

- Be careful not to get burned Maiko - said Minato

- Junpei-san already burned her mouth - said Ken.

- It burns! It burns! - said Junpei running in circles from where they were sitting.

- Now do you understand why I say Ken-kun is more reliable? - asked Yukari sighing at Junpei's behavior.

- I remember once my dad burned his mouth like your friend! Because he took a really big bite - said Maiko laughing - I was like ...

- Fuaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! - shouted Junpei

- Yeah, just like he did! - said Maiko, the rest felt a drop of sweat go down their heads, suddenly Maiko was silent.

- Is something wrong Maiko-san? - asked Ken

- Wow, the kid doesn't waste any time. You have my respects - said Orpheus

- Dad doesn't spend much time at home these days. But it will be my birthday soon - Maiko replied - Do you think he'll come for my birthday?

- He'll probably forget. Hee Hoo! - said the Jack Brothers

- How do I explain it to you? I wouldn't know what to tell you girl - said Orpheus.

- ...Wait a minute, what about Oberon's comment?

- Don't worry, he'll be there - answered Yukari at the end.

- Do you really think so!? - Maiko perked up a bit - I mean, I know my mom will buy me presents, but still...she still hasn't asked me what I want - she said before she became silent again

- If they really loved me, then she wouldn't be getting a divorce. Minato-chan and Stripes are the only ones who still play with me - said Maiko.

- I will always be your friend Maiko, never forget that - said Minato - Oh if not who will take you to eat at Duck-Fool or Takoyaki?

- Minato-chan! It's not fair! - Maiko complained - Today is washing day! If I don't wash, the house will be a big mess! See you! - Maiko ran off

- So her parents are getting divorced? - Yukari asked, to which Minato nodded - She seems like such a happy child and she's going through all that.

- Minato-san is someone you can trust, just like Yukari-san told me - said Ken.

- Ken, why are you betraying me like this!? - asked Yukari

- Long live the bride and groom! - said Junpei with his characteristic smile

- Shut up Stupei! - shouted Yukari, thus starting a new conversation between the two of them.

- So what did she tell you about me? - asked Minato

- Well... She says that you never leave your music player. Oh, and that you're a great cook - replied Ken.

- That was an unnecessary fact - said Minato sighing.

Monday, June 8, 2009 - Full Moon
Gekkoukan High School - Teachers' lounge, lunch

The trio plus juniors headed to the teacher's lounge, to find out the truth about Fuuka's disappearance. As soon as you enter, you see someone sitting in front of Mr. Ekoda's desk, it was Mitsuru and another student.

- Oh, Mitsuru-senpai why are you here? - asked Yukari

- The same reason as you - answered Mitsuru - Mr. Ekoda, I am here to ask you about a student named Fuuka Yamagishi.

- No! - shouted a brown-haired student - I-I never thought it would turn out this way...Fuuka...

- Wait, you are that girl..." said Yukari. Minato immediately recognized her, she turned out to be the girl who was standing next to Maki that day in the hallway leading to the sports clubs.

- What did they do to Yamagishi? - began the interrogation by Mitsuru.

- Wait Mitsuru... This is not an interrogation - interjected Mr. Ekoda - Natsuki, you don't have to say anything if you don't want to. You don't want to give a wrong idea

- Fuuka...She. She looked so hurt whenever we messed with her - started to tell Natsuki - I realized that...even though she is an honor student, she is still the same as us deep down. I knew exactly what to do to make her miserable.

- So you guys are trash for this school - said Minato, surprising everyone - "She didn't stop being the same as us deep down?" you're pure shits, you don't know what suffering is and yet you enjoyed that, you don't know anything about suffering! - everyone was amazed at how their leader had lost her temper.

- We were just playing with her that day! It was May 29th, we took Fuuka to the gym... and locked the door from outside - said Natsuki.

- What, you locked her in there?! - asked Junpei

- Then one day later, Maki came back to school alone. I was afraid that we would get in trouble if Fuuka committed suicide; but Maki never came back...and the next morning... -

- She was found lying on the ground in front of the entrance - Yukari finished saying.

- She went to the gym to let Fuuka out, but the door was still locked...So, I opened it and went in...but she wasn't there. We all got scared and started looking for her that night - said Natsuki.

- Minato! If Fuuka disappeared in the gym and had the door locked... - said Orpheus

- Tartarus! She's in Tartarus! Hell, and today is a full moon!

- But every night we went out to look for her, another one of us disappeared... and she always ended up just like Maki! - Natsuki finished explaining

- I see...By the way, Mr. Ekoda, all this time, you have attributed Yamagishi's absence due to an "illness" - now Mitsuru started to confront Mr. Ekoda - But in reality, she was missing. You must have been aware of it... What was your intention?

- I was thinking of the students of course, you children must not understand, but we have to consider the future of those affected - answered Ekoda.

- That's one of the worst excuses I've ever heard in my life, you just want to look good in front of the whole class, don't you? - asked Minato

- I-it was for your welfare - said Ekoda who started to get so nervous.

- If what you say is true, there would be no problem to give a testimony to the police, don't you think so? - continued Minato who made Ekoda more nervous.

- It wouldn't have been my pleasure to leave such a mark on my record, his parents are with me! - defended Ekoda

- A mark? Then you should check my file and have your say! The one who doesn't understand anything about the future is you - said Minato.

- So in order to keep your career unpunished, you ignored your responsibility as a teacher. How despicable! - said Mitsuru now confronting him

- That's it! Put him in his place, Penthesilea user! Let him suffer! - said Orpheus encouraging Mitsuru

- I-I haven't... I was just... - Ekoda had no choice but to just duck his head at Mitsuru.

- About your friends, did you notice anything unusual? Whatever - Mitsuru asked Natsuki.

- They all heard a voice, a disturbing voice... Just before each of them disappeared - Natsuki answered - They said it said their names.

- Voice?...The voice that Magician can hear?...You must be joking.

- The voice that Magician said that day, they are shadows... Shadows that can interact with what they don't have the potential? Is that possible? - wondered Orpheus

- Senpai, could they be!? - asked Yukari, apparently she already realized what had happened.

- It's her...no doubt about it - answered Mitsuru - So far, there has been no way to know how or why some people are conscious during the Dark Hour. But it's the voice...it attracts them...It's not a random phenomenon...

- Looks like they finally figured it out, surprise! - said Magician

- All this made me realize...It's clearly focusing on humans; the shadows are the enemy of humanity - said Mitsuru.

- Wait a minute! That's a lie! - said Magician, this statement made Minato confused.

- The enemy of humanity is yourselves, there are many things you have yet to understand - said Priestess.

- Exactly! Just look at us, we are helping Minato to find his true self, although it's not the best method, but it's effective - said Magician proudly - That redhead is manipulating you.

- Stay in our dormitory tonight, it's the safest place. If you hear the voice, tell us immediately - said Mitsuru to Natsuki - And don't leave the room, no matter what happens, if you can help us with that, you should be safe. Don't worry, Yamagishi is sure to be safe too.

- I hope so, because if the chained one found her, there's no way to save the poor thing - said Magician

- Arisato, Iori and Takeba. We'll meet after school in the Student Council room to discuss tonight's operation - said Mitsuru.

- T-tonight? - asked Junpei

- We are going to rescue Yamagishi, if my hunch is right, she is still inside the School - said Mitsuru.

- I-understood! - said Yukari following her superior's order.

- Tonight is going to be exciting! - said Magician - Priestess, let's go get some popcorn! This is going to be a movie!

Gekkoukan High School - After School, Student Council Room, Full Moon

All the assembled SEES members show an extremely serious look on their faces.

- Tonight, we will infiltrate the campus. Our goal is to rescue Fuuka Yamagishi - said Mitsuru to everyone.

- Hey, aren't we supposed to say that? - asked Orpheus

- That's right! We're supposed to be the leader! Hee Hoo! - said Jack Frost

- The redhead doesn't live up to her deal! Hee Hoo! - said Pyro Jack

- Um, I don't understand... Is Fuuka somewhere inside the school? - asked Junpei in confusion

- Remember that she has the potential, and this place at midnight becomes... - said Minato, Junpei caught what he said and his eyes widened like saucers.

- Exactly, that's how Yamagishi ended up in Tartarus - said Mitsuru.

- So since Fuuka was locked in the gym, has she been trapped here? - asked Yukari, Mitsuru could only nod.

- But, that was more than ten days ago! - said Junpei - That means...

- Not necessarily, we can't jump to conclusions. Tartarus only appears during the Dark Hour, so what happens during the rest of the day? - said Akihiko

- Now that you mention it...we never thought of that - said Yukari.

- This is just a theory, but I think it's possible that time works differently with respect to Tartarus - said Akihiko - For us it can be days, but for her it can only be hours, it's possible that she's still alive.

- Is that true Magician?

- Affirmative! One hour in Tartarus is equivalent to one day. So keep that in mind, if you ever get trapped - said Magician

- You think so? But, the Dark Hour is pretty brutal. We can barely get by with an hour... except for Minato - said Junpei.

- That's right... - Yukari agreed with Junpei - And even if she were still alive, we might not be able to find her.

- So you're just going to let her die!? - Akihiko asked with a noticeable anger, which surprised everyone - I have an idea, we'll try to enter Tartarus exactly like Fuuka did. We'll go to the gym and wait until midnight, that's the fastest way.

- Is that really going to work? - asked Yukari

- Honestly, I have my doubts - said Mitsuru - If something goes wrong, they could all end up lost in Tartarus.

- I'm with Akihiko-san - said Minato - I'm not going to stand idle and do nothing, I couldn't save my parents that day, but if we have the chance to save her, I'll take it. Senpai, I'm going with you and I won't take no for an answer - everyone was shocked at his statement, they knew how hard it was for him to talk about his parents.

- The boy is learning Priestess, at this rate he will get rid of you very soon - said Magician with a smile.

- We'll see about that, he has to get rid of you first - said Priestess.

- Minato... - Akihiko didn't expect that, of all people, he would agree with him - Thank you.

- Okay, we are aware of the risks, but we can't just leave her there. - said Mitsuru

- I agree, and we won't know until we try it - said Yukari joining the idea

- Cool, we'll sneak inside the school! - said Junpei enthusiastically - Hehehe...in that case, it was just what to do.

- Yukari, we're going to the mall. Junpei, you do what you have to do. See you in the dormitory - Minato ordered.

Now the only ones in the student council room were Akihiko and Mitsuru.

- Mitsuru, do you really think he doesn't trust us? - asked Akihiko

- I have my doubts, but we can't get complacent either. Maybe the mention of his parents was on purpose - said Mitsuru - Akihiko, we can't let him find out. After this operation, you will take care of him.

Paulownia Shopping Center - Aohige Pharmacy, Full Moon

- Minato, your appointments are always the weirdest - said Orpheus - Why of all the existing places in the world, does it have to be a pharmacy?

- Welcome! Oh, you're the guy Kurosawa told me about - said the clerk - Well boy, you can count on me for any emergency, you can call me Aohige.

- So what are we looking for? - asked Yukari

- We need bandages or wet wipes, in case of deep cuts - answered Minato - Although you are the "nurse" of the group, aren't you?

- Hey! I only said it once, you don't need to mention it - said Yukari embarrassed - Do you think we'll manage to rescue her?

- I don't know, but let's hope she's still alive - answered Minato.

- I want to ask you something, but you don't need to answer - said Yukari, confusing Minato - Do you think you could save your parents that day?

- I'll tell you another time - answered Minato - We also need rolled gauze.

- Funny, you didn't change the subject this time. You could say that you promised to tell him - said Magician - It's funny, what change now?

- Wow, your job is really dangerous - said Aohige

- Yes, our lives are in danger, every time we have to do something - commented Minato - What did Kurosawa tell you?

- The necessary, you don't need to be a genius, to know that something is going on out there - answered Aohige.

- You know, even though it's a small pharmacy, it has a great variety of products - commented Yukari, who was bringing all the stuff.

- Most of this pharmacy's income comes from my neighbors, so I have to be ready to help them at any time. If you ever suffer from a horrible stomach ache, don't hesitate to come to my store!

- We will keep it in mind - said Minato

- Don't you want to take a medical kit? This way you will be able to heal any wound with more precision and without the risk of infecting any wound - said Aohige.

- Minato-kun, I think we should take it. After all, we are taking a risk in this operation - said Yukari.

- How much does it cost? - asked Minato, he didn't know how to explain it, but Tartarus turned out to be a good source of income, so money was not going to be a problem.

- Just promise me something, that you won't die - said Aohige, giving the medical kit to Minato - Now, get out of this city! - Both teenagers nodded, leaving the pharmacy.

- It's true what Kurosawa told me, his memories are blocked. He doesn't remember us... - said Aohige with a frown - Makoto, if you are listening to me; your son needs you

Iwatodai Dormitory - Command room, night, full moon

- This worries me a little...I can't reach the chairman - Mitsuru informed the rest of the team.

- I guess we can take care of it ourselves - said Yukari.

- Still, there's a catch. I'm not sure how we can sneak into the campus... - said Mitsuru.

- What if you summon us and we break down the gate? - suggested Orpheus

- That's a good idea, we could use a little warm up before the battles against the shadows - said Jack Frost.

- Let's go burn shadows! Hee Hoo! - said Pyro Jack

- ...Why don't I listen to Oberon's suggestions?

- Umm...Look it looks like Junpei is going to say something stupid - said Orpheus.

- No need to worry fellows. I have everything under control, don't explode your heads - said Junpei.

- Explode your head? An explosive? - asked Mitsuru confused at his expression.

- I'm not surprised that someone as upright as she is would confuse those terms.

- Mitsuru is a princess, while Junpei is an ogre... - said Orpheus.

- Alright, I'll let you take care of this - said Mitsuru at last with a chuckle.

- We don't have time to waste, let's go - ordered Akihiko to the team.

- I still say, the orders should be given by Minato! He's the leader for a reason! - Orpheus began to complain.

The first to withdraw were Mitsuru and Akihiko, leaving the trio of juniors alone - An explosive? Really? - asked Yukari

-Nah... All I did was leave a door open - answered Junpei.

- I have to admit, I don't know why I had high expectations - commented Magician

Gekkoukan High School - Second floor, night, full moon

- See? We're already inside and no problem. Man, I'm a genius! - said Junpei letting his ego soar through the roof.

- And you're really bragging about that? - asked Yukari ruining his moment of glory.

- I agree with her, I prefer explosions - said Magician

- Hey, you're too present lately, don't you have something better to do?

- Nah, Priestess told me to look for other trades, instead of spending it bothering you - answered Magician with an idiotic expression that reminded him a lot of Junpei.

- So you picked the lock early, trés bien! - congratulated Mitsuru

- Oui - said Akihiko, confusing Junpei by the sudden change of language - No time for compliments, let's go - leaving the juniors alone once again.

- What's the hurry anyway? - asked Yukari

- Tgué Bian...? What does that mean? Minato, act as a translator - said Junpei

- Damn seniors with their vile French - said Minato.

Gekkoukan High School - Second floor, classroom 2-F, night, full moon.

- Can we turn on the lights? - asked Yukari, who seemed to be starting to get scared at the absence of light.

- Seriously, how are you scared of this, but not of bullies?

- Aww, scared? - said Junpei in a mocking tone

- No! - answered Yukari who now got angry -...Stupei

- Stop calling me that! - said Junpei

- Quiet, it's better to leave them that way. They cut off the power supply at night anyway - said Akihiko.

- I don't like to sneak around like this - said Yukari.

- First, we have to find the key to the gym. Akihiko and I will check the janitor's room, you three will go to the teacher's room - ordered Mitsuru - After that, we'll meet in the lobby, understood?

- The teacher's lounge, huh? - a smile started to form on Junpei's face - Hey, maybe we'll find some answers for the exams! Hehehe

- Maybe I should also go to the teacher's lounge too...Sounds interesting - Akihiko said.

- Are you trying to do something ignominious under my supervision? If so, prepare to be severely punished - Before Mitsuru's words, the atmosphere became more tense...

- I-it was, a joke! I would never do something like that! Ha, haha... - Junpei immediately retracted his remarks.

- What I meant by "interesting" is that there's a better chance of finding the key there... - said Akihiko as an excuse.

- Enough with the excuses, let's go to the janitor's room. Iori, you come with us - said Mitsuru - leaving Yukari and Minato alone.

- Alright, let's get it over with - said Yukari.

- Two dates in one day, very good Minato - said Orpheus

Gekkoukan High School - First floor, hallway, night, full moon

- Do you hear that? - asked Yukari. Minato listened as some chirping started to get closer - Is anyone here?

- We don't have time to wonder about that.

Minato grabbing Yukari's hand, pulled her closer so that they both hid behind one of the columns in the hall. Yukari, it seems, was about to start protesting, until they saw a light coming from a flashlight, it turned out to be a school guard. After a while, the footsteps faded away.

- It's just a security guard - said Yukari sighing, breaking away from Minato's grip.

- You are too scared - said Minato

- No, I'm not! I'm just a little nervous, that's all! - said Yukari defending herself - Would you blame me for that? I mean, we snuck into the school in the middle of the night...Wait a minute, it could have been one of the others - a strange smile started to form on her face - Haha, there's nothing to be afraid of, right? Hahahahaha... Why am I laughing?

Yukari's cell phone started to ring, causing Yukari to let out a small puzzled scream to both Minato and her People.

- That was a scream... - said Orpheus

- Adorable...

- Yeah, that scream was more adorable than my brother - said Pyro Jack

- I can't deny it, that scream surpassed all my tenderness - said Jack Frost.

M-my cell phone!? why now?! - wondered Yukari who proceeded to check her cell phone - To top it off...it's spam. Sorry about that, it took me by surprise!

- Yeah, me too... - said Minato, but that's not what he meant.

- See? - said Yukari with a smile.

- Why didn't you say that he looks adorable when he gets scared? - asked Orpheus

- I know I don't mind dying, but I don't pretend that the cause of my death is her.

Gekkoukan High School - Teacher's lounge, night, full moon

With each other's help, they were trying to find the key.

- No...no...It's too dark, I can hardly read this - Yukari took out a key - What does it say here?

- Tell him morgue, although I'm sure he will threaten us with death, if we tell him something like that - said Magician

- It's the keys to the gym - Minato answered without risking his life.

- ... Yes, this is it! Can we borrow this? - said Yukari in a mocking tone. They both started to hear footsteps approaching again, so they hid behind the desks. When they opened the doors to the room they took a look, but were surprised to find that it wasn't a guard, it was a person wearing dark clothing.

- Hey, who is that guy? - Yukari whispered

He started looking in the drawer where all the keys are - Where is the key to the gym? - that question, left both Minato and Yukari puzzled - I'm sure, I saw Mr. Ekoda keep them here - the only thing that could be heard in the room, was the constant sound of the keys, he was starting to get irritated, for not finding the desired key - Fuck it! I'll come back next month, that way I'll have more videos - he said before leaving the room.

The mention of that last word clicked in Minato's mind.

- Minato! It's Yukari's stalker, we must stop him - said Orpheus

- We can't...I remind you that we are sneaking around just like him, if we get caught we will be in serious trouble and the operation, it will only be a failure.

- Go decisions, you have to choose, stopping Yukari's stalker would mean saving her, but as a consequence you wouldn't save Fuuka. Minato, your life is too interesting - said Magician

- Who was that guy, was he some thief? - asked Yukari confused

- I don't know...He mentioned something about some videos - replied Minato, although he knew what he was referring to, he had a bad taste in his mouth, knowing that he was aware of having stopped Yukari's stalker.

- Tonight couldn't get any stranger - said Yukari - We better get this over with, as soon as possible, I just hope Fuuka is still alive... Hey, everything will be alright won't it?

Minato was aware of Yukari's fear, every time they had to fight against the shadows. He realized this little detail, during their expeditions to Tartarus, she always mentioned how the shadows became stronger on each new floor, Minato even wondered if her fear of dying was related to not discovering the truth about her father, something he promised he would help her with, even though she didn't have the slightest idea about it.

- I promise, everything will be all right - said Minato with determination.

- As I said in the previous full moon, I won't let you guys die, even if I have to risk my life.

Gekkoukan High School - First floor, hallway, night, full moon

- Did you find the key? - asked Mitsuru, seeing both juniors approaching.

- You bet - replied Yukari

- You know, I heard a scream that sounded very familiar… - commented Junpei with his typical smile.

- What?! - said an upset Yukari.

- What? Did you really do it? I was just kidding - said Junpei

- I'm laughing? - asked Yukari angrily, Minato wondered how she could change her behavior so fast.

- Lower your voice - said Akihiko, calming both of them down.

- Senpai, have you seen someone in dark clothes? - asked Minato, confusing Akihiko.

- Oh yeah, when we found the key. We heard someone approaching, we thought it was a guard, but it was someone else - Yukari explained to the group.

- A ghost? - asked Junpei with his intentions, making Yukari irritated again.

- We didn't run into someone, along the way. It wouldn't be a bad idea to convince the authorities to put cameras in the School - said Mitsuru - We don't have to waste any more time, we'll split into teams again. Three of you will enter the Tartarus, one of you will stay with me at the entrance. Once the Dark Hour begins, I will determine Yamagishi's position.

- I will go - said Akihiko being the first to volunteer - Minato, you should come too. You can take the lead, as usual

- Well, then I'll be the third one - said Yukari.

- Wait a second! Remember how I accidentally ruined everything on the monorail? - Junpei asked - Give me a chance to make it right!

- That was accidentally?

- Oh come on! It's not always all about you! - complained Yukari - Besides, you didn't mess up "accidentally"!

- Fine Junpei, we'll give you another chance - decided Akihiko instead of Minato.

- Great! Thank you! - said Junpei

- Are you serious? - asked Yukari in disgust at the decision.

- Oberon and Jack Frost, we'll have to be curators this time.

- What's wrong, Yukari, don't you want to stay with Mitsuru? - asked Akihiko

- Wait a minute, is it me or did he do it on purpose? - asked Orpheus

- Something doesn't add up...Akihiko is aware that Yukari is our healer, why choose Junpei over her?

- Um, i-it's not right - said Yukari.

- It's almost time - said Mitsuru

- Let's go! - commanded Akihiko, to the two men. So they all split up.

Place: Minato's Heart - Night, full moon

Minato decided to meditate a bit, when they were in the gym waiting for the Dark Hour to start.

- All right guys, I need you to be ready, it is very likely that one of those shadows will appear - Minato declared to his People - The only thing we know, is that it is the Empress' shadow, so we need to be attentive - Minato realized a little detail, the only Persona that was missing was Oberon - Where is Oberon?

- Orpheus, we can't hide him anymore - said Jack Frost fearfully.

After those words, Orpheus moved from the place where he was, revealing a completely frozen Oberon.

- ...Now I understand why I didn't listen to him - said Minato - Why did they do that?

- Where to start, every time a girl approached you. Oberon started to behave like an animal in mating season - answered Orpheus.

- Unfreeze him, now - ordered Minato.

- I'll take care of it. I can't believe this guy has a wife - said Pyro Jack.

- Seriously, I can't leave them alone for a few days. They even started dancing when I helped Hidetoshi - Minato sighed in this situation.

- Hey, I prefer this environment to that of your classmates - said Magician joining the conversation.

- What do you mean? - asked Minato

- There is a small detail, which you seem not to have noticed, and it is about the use they give to the Personas - answered Magician - In your case, you do it wonderfully, but, what about the rest of the SEES? - Every word Magician said only made Minato more confused.

- Let me explain, remember that Personas are a facet of the user's personality. In other words, it is to accept that you are that, but you don't accept that, what you do is to force it.

- Force it?... You mean Evoker? - asked Minato

- We have a winner! You force an invocation, that's why when your dear friends give the order for an attack, their Personas disappear - said Magician - But in your case, it's not like that. You give the order, and your Personas stay with you, unless you decide otherwise.

- Is it because I'm a wild card? - asked Minato

- No, because you are aware that the Personas are not simple tools to fight the shadows. You are the only one aware that the Persona are living beings, each one with different history, character and behaviors; you accept them as they are. You could define your form of invocation as asking for help from a loyal friend - Magician finished explaining.

- The power of the wild card allows you to possess several people and communicate with them. But in spite of that, you do not consider them as simple tools, you are aware of their feelings; and in that SEES fails - said Priestess - They must learn to accept themselves, if they want to continue living. Don't limit yourself to just giving orders, trust your "friends", let them be free if you want to be victorious tonight Minato.

- Now it's time for you to go out that door Minato - said Magician, pointing to the door he left last time - The Dark Hour is about to begin, remember, we will be watching you. With high expectations, about the outcome of tonight - he finished saying with his typical smile. Both shadows faded away

- ... Are you ready? - asked Minato, to which his People nodded - Let's rescue Fuuka Yamagishi!

Iwatodai Dormitory - Vacant Room, Dark Hour, Full Moon

- I...I'm not alone, after all - Natsuki said to herself, alone with her thoughts and memories, of all the "innocent pranks" she played on Fuuka.

- Poor Fuuka, suffering because of you - a mysterious voice had become, present in the room - Are you aware that she is going to die because of you? That you will be her murderer?

- No... I don't want to hear that! - shouted Natsuki

- Then come, Fuuka is calling you; she is waiting for you, waiting for your apology. Only this way you can save her - said the voice

-...She's calling me...I have to go - said Natsuki -...tell her I'm sorry...Fuuka - leaving the room, to go to Tartarus.

Tartarus - First floor, hallway

Yukari and Mitsuru wait expectantly for the boys to communicate their situation.

- Um... - said Yukari, trying to break the silence between them.

- I haven't received a response from them yet...And the transceiver's sensitivity is at maximum - said Mitsuru, an awkward silence arose between them again.

- O-oh yes, that Natsuki girl...I hope the dormitory is okay - commented Yukari.

- Unfortunately, no place is safe, during the Dark Hour - said Mitsuru - But there was no way to bring her here, and one of us outside the battle line was out of the question.

- Yeah, I guess... - said Yukari, it was so complicated for her to start a conversation with Mitsuru.

- Takeba, can I ask you something? - asked Mitsuru, to which Yukari nodded - What do you know about Arisato?

- About Minato-kun? Well...He always answers when asked a question, and very rarely gives his opinion about anything, although I must admit, his sincerity is one of the things I like, and it seems that you can always count on him, for any problem...and he never talks about his personal life, he's very reserved in that aspect - answered Yukari - Why?

- Simple curiosity, I mean, we are a team and communication is the most important thing to be more successful - said Mitsuru - Since he is the leader in the expeditions, you should be more informed about him.

- I guess, you're right... - said Yukari not sure of her answer - Why this sudden interest in him?

Her thoughts were interrupted, when the transmitter started to emit signals.

- Mitsuru, can you hear me? - It was Akihiko's voice

- Mitsuru here. I have confirmed your position - said Mitsuru You are higher than I had anticipated. You're barely in communication range, is everyone okay?

-I don't know... ...know... ...we all... - Akihiko's voice was not quite audible.

- Akihiko! Come in, Akihiko! - said Mitsuru, who was losing

-Are you out of range? I'm starting to get worried... - commented Yukari - I hope she's alright

Tartarus - Block: Unknown, Floor: Unknown

Minato was lying on the floor, he didn't know how long he had been unconscious, he noticed that both Junpei and Akihiko were not with him, but he was inside the Tartarus.

- Are you awake? - asked the boy who had appeared in front of him - This is the first time, that we chatted outside your room.

- Where are the others? - asked Minato

- Don't worry, you will see them soon - answered the boy with a smile - But we don't have much time to talk, tonight, there is more than one "test" you have to face...You should hurry, she is waiting for you...You will need her, I hope I can see you again - he said before he disappeared without a trace.

Minato got up from the ground, analyzing where he was. He started to listen to Mitsuru between interferences, he guessed that he was on a floor too high, that interfered with the communication, in other words, he was alone on his own. Everything would be fine, until he began to hear a particular sound, the sound of dragging chains.

Desperately he put on his headphones, grabbing his player, desperately searching for music, completely forgetting the fact that electronic devices didn't work during the Dark Hour, bad luck for him. He was starting to lose his composure, his nervous tics were starting to get out of control, his breathing becoming more agitated with each passing second. Several memories began to emerge, those memories that he wanted to extirpate from deep inside him.

- Mr. Masashi, stop! If he keeps this up he's going to kill him! He's just a kid! - It was the voice of a woman, that Minato knew perfectly well.

He grabbed his head with both hands, while he started to scream uncontrollably, he didn't care if he had to tear his own throat, he didn't care if he had to become hoarse, he didn't want to feel that anymore, he felt like he was going to lose his balance at any moment and writhe on the floor with a pain that he still feels over the years.

- Who's there, are you human? - he heard an unfamiliar female voice, bringing him out of his thoughts and making all his senses become alarmed.

- Where did that voice come from? - Minato wondered, regaining his composure.

- Hey, are you all right? That attack was worse than last time - asked Orpheus, worried about his master.

- I'm fine...Geez, I wish my player would work during the Dark Hour - replied Minato.

- Where am I? - The voice was present again - Why am I here? Please answer me

- Fuuka Yamagishi? - asked Minato hoping for an answer, which never came - I guess I'll have to explore.

After exploring two floors on his own, avoiding combat with all the shadows he encountered, he visualized Junpei and Akihiko in the distance, much to his delight.

- Hey, here he is! - said Junpei when he saw him - Man, we were worried about you.

- I don't think we should go back into Tartarus like this - said Akihiko.

- Oh right! Did you hear a voice before you met us? - asked Junpei

- A female voice? - asked Minato, to which they both nodded.

- Who is it? Is it human? - the voice came again, alarming the three of them.

- That's it! That's it! That's the voice! - Junpei shouted euphorically, "It sounded like it was coming from behind us!

A pale-faced girl with green hair peeked out from the wall behind us.

- Yes, it's Fuuka Yamagishi - said Akihiko recognizing her.

- Akihiko-san? - asked Fuuka confused when she saw him

- Wow, she's alive! That's amazing! - Junpei shouted impressed - There's nothing to be afraid of! Junpei, she's here!

- Hey, that's no way to greet someone - commented Minato.

- I'm glad she's okay... - said Akihiko with a slight smile - Come with us!

- Thank you very much... - said Fuuka gratefully - Why those weapons? - all the guys tensed up at that question, they hadn't thought about that.

- Well, it looks like we made the right decision. I'll see if I can contact Mitsuru - said Akihiko, diverting the topic.

- Where are we? I was at school, and then... - asked Fuuka confused.

- Well, it's a long story. I'll explain it to you when we get out of here - replied Junpei.

- I need to ask something, didn't you see some stations emanating a green light? - asked Minato

- Oh yes...Although I didn't understand what they were for, it was strange...There were times, when it was emanating that light, but then not...I didn't dare to go there, because there were some creatures... - answered Fuuka.

- Didn't the teleporters always work? - asked Junpei

- Apparently not, it seems that they only work when the tartar is present during the Dark Hour - said Minato - That's why she couldn't go back on his own.

- This is not good, all I hear is just static - said Akihiko.

- Oh yeah, are you hurt? - asked Junpei, actually that should have been the first thing they should have asked.

-Yeah...I've managed to evade those creatures so far - replied Fuuka, surprising the guys.

- Are you serious? - asked Akihiko in surprise - How is that possible!?

- Umm, it's hard to explain, but... I can somehow sense where they are - replied Fuuka shyly.

- What do you mean, you're a psychic? - asked Junpei

- She has the same power as Mitsuru...Maybe even stronger since Mitsuru's Persona is more combat oriented - said Akihiko.

- All this time, if it was useful. We only rely on combat and not on other possibilities - said Minato

- Persona? - asked Fuuka confused

- Take this - Akihiko handed an Evoker to Fuuka, who as a normal reaction was scared - See it as a lucky charm, it's not a real weapon.

- Okay? - was all Fuuka could say in the face of the whole situation

- Alright, let's get out of here! - declared Akihiko to everyone

On the way, Fuuka approached Minato to ask him a few questions.

- Excuse me, are you? - asked Fuuka

- Minato Arisato, nice to meet you - he answered

- Arisato? Oh, you're the guy dating Takeba - said Fuuka, making Minato sigh.

- Don't believe those rumors, please - said Minato.

- Um, I know Akihiko-san said to see this as a lucky charm...So, do you wear that takeba charm? - asked Fuuka referring to the Evoker

- How to explain it? We are "special" and through this, we can invoke what you heard, Persona - answered Minato - And the way we do it, is by using that, in other words, we replicate the act of death.

- You commit suicide!? - asked Fuuka horrified

- Don't worry, you won't die in the process. If you're wondering why it has to be that way, I have no idea - said Minato.

- I can use that too? Persona? - asked Fuuka

- You are conscious during the Dark Hour, which means yes - said Minato - We will make everything clear to you, when we get out of here. You have my word - Fuuka could only nod at his words.

After several minutes, they reached a corridor overlooking the outside. Minato could not be calm, he knew the test that awaited them, but there was no sign of it coming...

- Whoa, look at the moon! - Junpei said amazed by the size of the moon - I've never seen it so bright!

- Some research indicates that the Shadows are affected by the phases of the moons - said Akihiko - The same can be said for humans.

- Wait a minute! How do they know that, about the shadows?

- That would explain Yuka-tan's changes - said Junpei, Minato couldn't agree more - Hey, wasn't there a full moon the night we went to the monorail? - asked Junpei, Minato knew it was the perfect opportunity for them to be aware of the danger that the full moon was.

- Was it? - asked Akihiko confused at that statement - Minato, did you see the moon the night the dormitory was attacked?

- It was...a full moon - replied Minato, feigning astonishment.

- Today is the 8th...The monorail incident happened last month around the same date, AND the dormitory assault was a month before that! ...They were all on a full moon! - Akihiko said, realizing what it meant - Mitsuru, are you there!?

- Akihiko? ...Shadows - was Mitsuru's voice, trying to communicate with them.

- Mitsuru, can you hear us? Mitsuru, come in! - Akihiko kept insisting

-What is this thing? ...- Fuuka wondered - It's much bigger than the others... and it's attacking someone.

- Yukari! Guys, you'd better be ready!

- What's going on! - asked Junpei who didn't seem to have understood anything.

- It's ONE of those! If my hunch is right, they appear every full moon! - replied Akihiko

- Wait a second...Apparently, there are two of them... - said Fuuka, causing Minato to go into shock.

- Two? There are two shadows? ...If we defeat them... I'm going to acquire two more shadows?

- We must hurry! - said Akihiko running, followed by everyone, towards the nearest teleporter. Once they arrived and the light enveloped them forcing everyone to block their sight.

Location: Minato's Heart - Dark Hour, Full Moon

When Minato opened his eyes, he was met with the surprise of being inside his heart, his Personas were in front of him, and a thawed Oberon.

- There is no time to lose, we must get to that door! - said Minato, who started running followed by his Personas, in the distance he saw a familiar silhouette, making him stop.

- I never thought you would make it this far, I thought I was going to die during the second full moon, but somehow you managed - welcomed Magician - But now, you need to make a decision, and you know what I mean.

- You're supposed to be my shadow, aren't you? - said Minato, Magician upon hearing those words showed a big smile.

- Are you ready to start your descent into hell, to face all the consequences, to suffer? - asked Magician with each question, his smile only grew wider with the long awaited answer.

-This is a point of no return Minato, if you keep moving forward you will face many situations, where you will have to learn to fight against yourself, more allies, more enemies. More doubts of what if you do the right thing - said Magician - Your life was going to be so happy, poor Minato...You changed everything, without thinking about the consequences, that it would bring you, and here you are about to make a decision of utmost importance, that will decide the fate of all.

- Magician, I will not let them die. - replied Minato

Even if you have to die to save them? - asked Magician

- If it comes to that, so be it - replied Minato, Magician could only stare at him before bursting out laughing.

- That's what I've been waiting for! - shouted Magician with excitement - I couldn't be prouder of your decision! In that case, have my power! - he opened the palm of his right hand, waiting for the moment for both of them to clash their palms, Minato only started to approach him, shortening the distance between them, without saying a word

- Burn your enemies with the flames of hell! Until only ashes remain, discover the whole truth! You are the only one, who can boast, who was in the flames of hell, you are the one who will rise from the ashes, and become the phoenix to face his destiny and you know why? - The moment that Magician had been waiting for so long, had arrived, the sound of both palms colliding was heard.

- Because you are Minato Arisato, the first wild card! - shouted Magician happily with his biggest smile. Minato had finally reached the door that indicated the exit, ready to face his destiny, regardless of the consequences.

Tartarus - First floor, foyer

Yukari and Mitsuru, they were having trouble with those giant Shadows that came out without warning, despite their efforts, their attacks didn't seem to have any results at all!

- What's wrong, nothing is working! - said Yukari

When he came to his senses, the first thing Minato noticed was the sight of two large giant shadows. The Empress and her Emperor, The Empress wielding a scepter while appearing to be wearing an elegant costume, in Minato's eyes the most worrisome was the Emperor, not only because of his large size, but because of the sword he possessed. The Emperor's Shadow held Mitsuru in his hand while Yukari lay on the ground.

- Mitsuru! - Akihiko said, as soon as he saw her. The Emperor's Shadow threw her to the ground. Akihiko ran to Mitsuru, to check if she was okay. Minato, in his case, approached Yukari.

- Yukari-san, are you alright? - asked Minato

- Yes...I see you were able to rescue her, mission accomplished? - said Yukari with laughter, in spite of the pain she felt

- I'm supposed to be the sarcastic one of the group, I'm supposed to be me - said Minato

- Akihiko-senpai! We have to distract the Shadows somehow! - said Junpei

- I know how to do it... Hey! If it's a fight you want, we'll give it to you! - shouted Akihiko

- Be careful, normal attacks don't work against these shadows - warned Mitsuru.

Everyone noticed how someone entered the Tartarus unexpectedly, it turned out to be Natsuki.

- Why are you here? - asked Mitsuru when he saw her.

- Moriyama-san!? - asked Fuuka when he recognized her - Please get out of here! It's dangerous!

- Wow...Even though she was bothering you, you care about her...You're a good person, Fuuka.

- I...I wanted to...tell you, I'm sorry... - said Natsuki, who seemed to be out of her mind, not noticing the danger she was in. The Emperor's shadow started to get dangerously close to Natsuki raising the sword he wielded, without wasting time, Fuuka stood in front of her, with the intention of protecting her, aiming at the shadow with the Evoker provided to him

- Hey, it's not a weapon! - warned Akihiko

- Fuuka, remember what I told you! Simulate the act of death! - shouted Minato

Fuuka looked at the Evoker for a few seconds, remembering the conversation he had with Minato, hesitantly placed it to his temple and pulled the trigger. When the Emperor's sword fell, it suddenly bounced as everyone watched what happened. Both Fuuka and Natsuki were inside a giant glass sphere in the shape of an eyeball.

- Is that her Persona? - Minato wondered, its design depicts her as a woman whose eyes and throat are covered with bandages.

-...I can see... - said Fuuka - I...I can see the weaknesses of these monsters, somehow.

- Just as I thought - said Akihiko -Mitsuru, let her take your place.

- Hey Minato, don't you think you should heal them? - asked Magician who was squatting down and pointing at both of them.

- Oberon! Jack Frost! - Minato summoned his two Persona, ordering them to take care of the healing.

- We'll take care of this! - said Akihiko, standing up, followed by Junpei.

- Shadows, come to me! - said Junpei

- Minato, remember; don't see the Persona as tools, expand your horizons - said Magician - Show those shadows, who they messed with.

- Akihiko! Junpei! You guys take care of that fat girl! - Minato ordered - I'll take care of the big one! I don't want any objections! - Both Junpei and Akihiko didn't like the idea, but they didn't have time to argue about it!

- What, are you out of your mind?! - asked Yukari, who was still being healed by Minato's Persona.

- ...Remember, what you asked me at the pharmacy? - asked Minato, while standing up - A part of me is aware that anything I did would have been in vain; despite that, I still blame myself for that...I still blame myself for the death of my parents - he placed the Evoker on his temple while he invoked Orpheus replacing Jack Frost.

- I know it's stupid, this isn't supposed to happen. But I see you as family, the little family I have left... - with every word Minato said, Yukari could only remain silent - And I don't mind giving my life for you - with those last words, he swung her sword followed by her Persona.

- Orders? - Orpheus asked

- Just one, let's finish with these shadows, to go to sleep.

- Then is it allowed to make them suffer? - Oberon asked - I will enjoy annihilating my Master's enemies, it is an honor to team up with you.

Orpheus wielded his harp, while Oberon wielded his sword. Now Minato was in front of the Emperor, while his allies fought against the Empress.

- Let's go! - said Minato - Fuuka, I need an analysis of your weaknesses!

The Emperor's Shadow, raised his sword again to attack Minato, but it was blocked by Orpheus' harp, while Orpheus blocked his attack, Oberon proceeded to attack with a Zio that hit the Shadow, but it didn't affect him at all.

- Minato-san, he is affected by physical attacks! - reported Fuuka - No...I didn't know he had this kind of power.

- You are doing very well Fuuka, keep it up! - said Minato

Before Fuuka's announcement, Minato ran towards the shadow attacking with his sword to his legs, making him lose his balance. Orpheus took advantage of this situation to hit him in his face, making him fall completely. Oberon, for his part, approached to destroy his mask, but a circle surrounded the Shadow and the moment Oberon attacked, his sword rebounded.

- He is now weak to ice! - reported Fuuka

- Jack Frost! - summoned Minato to his snowman, replacing him with Oberon. Jack Frost, launched a Bufu against the enemy, freezing his feet, Orpheus taking advantage of this, went to attack his legs, to try to destroy them. He did not notice the attack of the Shadow with his sword, which sent him flying; those magic circles appeared again. Jack Frost again launched a Bufu against him, but this time, they had no effect against him.

Minato changed Persona again, replacing Jack Frost again with Oberon. The Shadow broke the frozen parts of his body, and this time his attack was effective against Oberon sending him flying, now his new attack was directed towards Minato, but Orpheus quickly approached him pushing him, thus both avoiding the attack. A lightning bolt fell on the Shadow, and this time it seemed to have an effect against him, both Orpheus and Oberon started attacking the Shadow with their magical abilities, leaving him seriously wounded, who fell to his knees.

- What happened to Arisato? - asked Mitsuru, impressed by the sudden change in his fighting style.

- Is he coordinating his attacks with his Personas? Is that possible? - asked Yukari equally as surprised as Mitsuru.

Orpheus knelt down, Minato knew instantly what his idea was. So he ran towards him, jumped on his back to be at the height of the Shadow's face, thus splitting his mask in half, after a few seconds. The Emperor's shadow screamed in pain only to fade away, leaving only the Empress's shadow behind.

- Minato, we could use some help! - said Junpei

The Empress attacked with her scepter, sending Junpei flying towards the stairs, but he was intercepted by Oberon, who gave him a smile. Akihiko summoned Polydeuces to execute a sonic blow, impacting against the Shadow and was finished off by Orpheus' harp. Now it was Hermes' turn, trying to stick his blades in his stomach, only for that circle to appear, showing that he was changing his weakness, so Hermes just flew away.

- Everyone, he is weak to fire! - reported Fuuka, as soon as he had the analysis

- Now, Minato! Turn that bitch into ashes! - shouted Magician

Orpheus was ready to pluck the strings of his harp, only one signal was missing - Orpheus! Inferno! - shouted Minato, as soon as the order was given. Orpheus plucked several strings of his harp, a circle began to form under the shadow, leaving Akihiko and Junpei confused, Oberon intercepted both of them moving them away from the shadow. Everyone watched in amazement as a pillar of fire surrounded the shadow, causing it to scream in pain, its mask was turning to ashes, thus ending it, SEES had emerged victorious.

Minato suddenly felt that he lacked strength and just collapsed on the ground.

- Oh shit, I forgot to warn you that Inferno is still a very powerful attack for you - said Magician between laughs - I know, I know I should have warned you before, but hey, wasn't the emotion of the moment unbelievable?

- Are you still here?

- Did you think you got rid of me? Let me tell you, you've only got one thing left to do and I'll say goodbye - said Magician

- I'm not going to sing

- Well, at least you're aware! - said Magician - Besides I don't want to go alone, so I'll wait for Priestess, good job Minato with those shadows, and your coordination with your Persona, it was amazing, I can't wait for your future fights.

He suddenly felt an energy begin to surround him, when he looked up. He found Yukari, sitting next to him, who had summoned Io to heal him.

- You know, you're the biggest idiot I've ever met in my life - said Yukari - So what do you think, aren't we a weird family? - he asked with a chuckle

- Only you can say that, right now - replied Minato with a slight smile.

- Hey, you just smiled... - said Yukari amazed at what she just saw. Minato seems to have realized his mistake, and looked away immediately - Don't try to hide it, I did see it!

- That was amazing! - said Junpei who had approached them both - I didn't know I could make such an attack.

- And this is the conscience, of having used that - said Minato sighing.

- Is there more of them? - asked Fuuka

- Don't worry, it's over now - answered Akihiko

- Fuuka...you - said Natsuki, who seemed to be still lost in spite of everything.

- Are you ok? - asked Fuuka, worried about her health

- Yes...Thank heavens - answered Natsuki, without any warning, Fuuka fell to the ground unconscious - Fuuka!?

- She's fine, she's just exhausted - said Mitsuru.

- Where did these shadows come from? - asked Akihiko

- From outside of Tartarus, just like before - answered Mitsuru.

- Um... What are we going to do about Natsuki? She knows about the Dark Hour and the shadows - asked Yukari, who was still healing Minato.

- Don't worry, he's not like us, so he won't remember any of this - answered Akihiko - The good news is, he didn't fall victim to the shadows, even though he obviously came to their call. He should be safe from now on.

- But, that means Fuuka saved his life, right? - Yukari asked - That doesn't seem fair...

- In fact, I don't think we should worry about that - said Mitsuru

- Fuuka...Fuuka, me. I'm sorry, Fuuka...I'm so sorry - repeated again and again Natsuki on her knees with Fuuka's unconscious body.

- I think he learned his lesson - said Mitsuru with a smile.

- I think we should worry about him though - said Akihiko, seeing how Minato was still lying on the ground.

- Hey, old man, are you okay? - asked Junpei

- Yeah, I'm fine...I'm just tired - replied Minato with a frown and it wasn't because of Junpei's question, but because of what he was seeing.

Next to Junpei and Yukari, there were two new Minato. Both showing a reversed Tarot card, in other words, the new shadows he acquired.

- At last, we meet Arisato - spoke the first Minato, who was showing the Emperor's card, he had a mask hanging on the right side of his face - I never thought, that you would dare to cut off my mask.

- That attitude is unforgivable - said the other Minato, who spoke with a sharper tone. Showing his inverted Empress card, with a lighter mask hanging from the left loop of his face.

What disturbed Minato most about his new shadows, was something he detested. Both Empress and Emperor had chains on their hands, Emperor on his right hand and Empress on her left hand.

- I hope you are ready Arisato, we are not going to be reflexive with you - said Emperor

- But the hardest part is still missing, and that is to talk about Masashi, will you be able to do it? - asked Empress

- This is going to be interesting Minato, now you have to deal with all three at the same time - spoke Priestess who appeared as a ghost - As Magician would say, this is going to be interesting - showing a slight smile - Ready to unearth your dark past?