Chapter 67 / Triumph
August 6th, 2012 / Afternoon
Shadow Operative's Headquarters / Kyoto
It had been just over a week since the concert, but with everything that had happened I felt that there was no amount of rest that would make me feel one hundred percent. Not for a while at least. The world doesn't wait for people though. Time keeps pushing us forward. I shifted a large cardboard box in my hand as I moved into a new room and then placed the cardboard box on a stack of others. Despite its weight it didn't really bother me all that much to get it up here. I looked to see my sister unpacking a few of her things into the shelving. This lab was huge, and it was now dedicated to the maintenance, upgrades or anything else regarding the two resident mechanical maidens, Aigis and Labrys. Which the two in question were also around to help with the much heavier equipment.
"Setsuko, scan complete. Shall I commence with integration with the new equipment?" Yurika, the strange AI, but not AI, voice came from speakers situated about the room.
"Any anomalies in the scans?" Setsuko looked to a monitor. It was a larger monitor and I noticed that there was an avatar on the screen. It looked like... well it looked a lot like Setsuko, but much younger. Was it like a representation for Yurika? Setsuko noticed and with a smile motioned me over. "I haven't showed you yet, but this is the appearance that Yurika decided for herself. Go on take a spin."
The avatar then bowed slightly and then twirled in place. the avatar wore a blue dress, and the long black hair even moved realistically, "I thought it appropriate that I looked similar to the children of Ikakure Renji and Arisa. I was brought to life because of him, after all."
"I see," I scratched the back of my head. I guess the changes in the overall appearance might be just her taking in physical traits she noted in photographs of our family. What a strange thought. "Well you look great, Yurika-chan."
"Thank you, Kayane-sama," Yurika responded back. "Setsuko, my results did not find any anomalies. I did take the liberties to remove required creations of logs or other redundant data recording that could possibly be grabbed without my active surveillance."
"Then proceed with integration. Here I've prepared all the necessary drivers and instructions with the lab equipment. Not all of them have been connected so you'll have to adjust to them as we get them online," Setsuko said.
"Then I will begin," Yurika then seemed to hop off the screen and the screen was replaced with a progress bar.
"I'm surprised that the decision was made to have the Headquarters here in Kyoto. Then again, I'm sure having to deal with the politics and Tokyo wasn't very appealing for Mitsuru-sama," I said changing the topic.
"The Kirijo Group doesn't have as much of a presence in Tokyo. Plus, the Shadow Operatives have already dealt with enough conflict with the police. There is a lot of other things to be concerned about there too. Either way this place was logical. But we'll have other locations as we expand out. Although technically you're just a reserve unit, Kay-chan," Setsuko chuckled a bit.
"That is just until I'm cleared for full duty. Your sister thinks I should step away from Shadow related business for my own health," I shrugged.
"Boo... I'm your sister too, Kay-chan," Yoko made her appearance and walked over to us. She smiled and obviously had the look in her eyes that she was teasing me.
"On paper, that is definitely not true," I chuckled. "But we might as well be."
"You better believe it," Yoko looked to Setsuko. "What do you think, Onee-chan? Seems like you have quite the upgrade here. Got big plans for Aigis-chan and Labrys-chan?"
"I'm going to continue our Father's research," Setsuko declared. "The Kirijo Group that funded our Father was only interested in the application of it as they were unable to discover a means to force Persona awakenings in humans. So they always intended to take Father's research once it was in a place they could replicate and create the enforcers they needed. Naturally they didn't like the fact that they couldn't control them with Father's methods so they decided to be rid of him once they were able to reliably make units awaken to Persona. Well you don't need me to tell you that."
"What's the end goal?" I asked her after a moment.
"To give Aigis and Labrys a means to live how they want. Yurika as well. Right now they are optimized for battle. But Father's notes often talked about wanting to give them more ways to experience the world. Touch, smell, not to mention methods in which they would be capable of performing maintenance on themselves without a need or reliance on individuals like myself. I can optimize them for whatever they wish. Well, that is the goal. Considering most of the research and parts available are mostly just for maintenance for Aigis. And its all based on designs and such that are a decade old at this point. Not surprising considering most of it was decommissioned and shut down," Setsuko sighed and looked to me. "This is our Father's legacy. And I want to complete it, the way he wanted."
I nodded, "I'm sorry I can't be more help."
She shook her head, "Are you kidding? My little brother makes amazing music and performing in a band where he not only creates the songs but sings them too. This was always my dream. But you should chase after yours."
I looked away from her and watched as Aigis and Labrys were moving a rather large piece of equipment with relative ease. Something that likely not even ten people could hope to budge. "Nee-san, you've had to deal with Shadows and Persona since you were young. You survived because you learned things that most people couldn't even begin to understand. You lost your leg, but you not only continued to fight, you used it as a weapon against things you shouldn't have had to face alone. I don't think you got the childhood you deserved."
"I can agree with that," Yoko echoed. "Onee-chan was always serious about everything. She spent a lot of time at the library, and reading books far above what would be considered the education level for her age group. She self taught herself a large majority of what she knows."
"Neither of us had the childhood we deserved. I don't regret the choices I made. I did the best with the situation I was given. That doesn't mean I don't wonder what it would have been like if our parents had been alive and we had been able to grow up as brother and sister. But this is our reality. After all these years we can finally be family but we each have our lives to live. Plus, I would not have been sisters with Yoko if it had been different. We can speculate what that life could have been but we can't change the past. And now we just have to hold onto the present, and put all of our effort to creating the future we want," Setsuko then walked over to me and even though she was shorter than me she pulled me down to her into a hug. "I'm so proud of what you've accomplished. Better believe I'm going to brag that I have such an amazing little brother."
She was right. There was not point in thinking of scenarios that might have been. This is our reality. So many years I had spent thinking differently. Locked in the past because I believed I could have done something to change the future to not be so bleak. But the reality of it was that I couldn't. And I had allowed so much of my life to pass me by as a result. I pushed people away, didn't allow myself to make friends or get close to anyone. I was afraid that I would hurt someone else, that I would be the cause of pain in someone else's life. And yet because of those actions I had hurt someone. My adopted Mother, Nanase spent so long trying to find a way to help me. I can only imagine how hard it had been for her. Yeah, I owed Mom an apology.
"You guys, no family moment without me," Yoko then added herself to the hug from my other side.
I couldn't help but laugh, "I wouldn't dream of it."
"'Ey! Don't leave me outta it," I heard the distinct accent of Labrys as she seemed to join in.
"Of course not. You're family too," Setsuko said.
I wonder if our parents were able to find peace now. After everything that had happened, we found each other. Considering we also found our cousin and aunt who were also connected to the Shadow Operatives, maybe there wasn't much luck in avoiding coming into contact with the world of Shadows and Persona. Well, no matter what awaited us, we could all do so together. I wouldn't charge forward on my own anymore. And even if I have to, I won't really be doing it alone.
August 6th, 2012 / Evening
Kyoto / Local Ramen Shop
"Sorry about that. You weren't waiting long were you?" Hamuko asked as she slid into the seat across from me, Kokoro in her arms.
I shook my head, "No its fine. You seem to have your hands full."
She smiled looking at Kokoro, "Maybe, but she's a cutie and worth the trouble. Kana and Yukari are out filming something out in Hokkaido, but they send their regards."
"Yeah I know. Kana sent me a few apologies," I chuckled a bit. "How about you? You didn't have to rush to meet me for dinner you know."
"I know but you and your band have a busy schedule ahead and so I wanted to see you when you aren't on a strict schedule," Hamuko put down a bag and seemed to quickly turn the empty space next to her into a place where Kokoro could rest. "Yukari says she's just like my brother. Able to sleep through anything."
Yeah, Arisato Minato, a Persona user with the gift of the wild card. But he had to use all that power to save the world. Acting as a seal, to prevent mankind's wish for death to reach the being known as Nyx. I noticed that Hamuko talked a lot about her twin brother, but she had never met him. Only discovering his existence after his death. But it was that sacrifice that made it possible for any of us to be here. I only faced the struggles I did because of that sacrifice. We were all saved before we knew that we needed it. But who is to say there isn't more that we don't know about?
"I'm sure things like that will be important for Kokoro. To learn more about her Father," I watched as she seemed to finish adjusting Kokoro and turning to me.
"Yeah, she'll likely hear it from everyone who was touched by his life. Though everyone is, one way or another," her eyes wandered for a moment and shook her head. "Sorry, I don't mean to bring up my brother all the time."
"It must weigh heavily on your mind. I don't blame you," I tried to comfort her a bit.
Hamuko shook her head again, "What are we doing, Kayane? We're supposed to be celebrating you know. You and Synchronicity has grabbed headlines and your album is going to hit stores next week. Then a line of media appearances you go right into your concert tour. And all of this happening right after the craziness with Nyarlathotep."
"Yeah, I guess its just been one of those days. I've tried not to look at the public reception to Synchronicity. I know maybe it isn't a normal reason but, my music and songs were made more for Rise, and my friends. As an artist I suppose it isn't uncommon. Most don't usually go into this wanting to do so for others. No matter what anyone says there is always something fundamentally self serving in creating art and music. Even if you write a song for the fans, when you finally perform it, you expect those cheers and cries in return for your effort. And after finally experiencing it myself, I guess I can understand the desire to hear them. But me? I was shaking so bad after the concert. Not anywhere near the panic attacks I was having before, but it wasn't like they would just disappear after dealing with Nyarlathotep. This concert tour is going to be like an endurance race for me," I chuckled a bit.
"Then its a good thing you have Rise with you along the way," Hamuko grinned.
"Yeah, everyone else in the band is a great help too," I smiled as I note our table being approach.
"What would you like to order?" the waiter asked.
"Give me some Taiwan Ramen," I said without hesitation. "Oh and just some water would be great."
Hamuko raised an eyebrow, "Should you be eating something spicy?"
"It isn't that spicy. Besides I'm sure my Mom is going to void any spicy food while on tour. And you don't understand how much torture that will be," I quickly defend my actions.
She giggles a bit, "Tonkotsu, for me. And extra ginger. Some green tea as well."
The waiter took our orders and then left.
"Speaking of," Hamuko leaned forward a bit. "Your girlfriend stuck at school so you decided to head out of town?"
I laugh, "I was just helping out Nee-san. She's got her new lab and going through the maintenance equipment for Aigis and Labrys. It seems the last few people that helped maintain Aigis didn't understand the equipment that much. Mitsuru-sama isn't too keen on hiring people that were on the original project anyway. After all they had been complacent on the treatment of the maidens."
"That makes sense. Plus, Setsuko-chan seems to have a better understanding of it anyway. I heard she is rebuilding Aigis overall body," Hamuko was no doubt in the loop as she was a full time agent for the Shadow Operatives. Where I was technically just a reserve unit for the time being. Until medical and Yoko deemed me physically and mentally fit to do the work.
"To start, yeah. She doesn't like the overall weight of the materials used. So likely more composite materials, and also cut down on Aigis overall arsenal to be more simplistic like Labrys. Eventually to be able to replace parts as needed in the field if she needs the heavy firepower," I think it was a great idea. Aigis wouldn't have to be the walking tank she was now. "I think she enjoyed the idea of not always having weapons on her."
Hamuko nodded, "She was built by a group that only ever wanted to use her as a weapon. She was never given a choice."
"Nee-san, wants to give them that choice," I wish I had more time to spend with them. But there was a lot of life to live.
Hamuko was quiet for a bit but was smiling, "That's great to hear."
"But yeah, Rise wanted to be here. She was pouting over me leaving town without her. But the two of us are about to be spending a lot of time together anyway so she was happy I was taking time to see my sister... and my cousin," I added.
"I'm just glad I got a chance to before you get too recognizable. Soon you'll have a hard time going anywhere without some fan catching you," she adjusted in her seat as the waiter returned with our order and placed it in front of us and was gone just as quickly. "I know you're avoiding looking at media but the reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Although I wouldn't look on some of the comments online. There is always going to be people that refuse to give your music a chance. They claim that Rise is better off on her own and that she should sing with 'some dude from the sticks' is how its put."
"We knew from the beginning she would lose fans. But I don't think Rise even cares about that stuff anymore. Even if Synchronicity were to fail completely she would have been happy with it," I shrugged a bit thinking about it. "I think she misses the stage though. From what I've been told she has only shined this way when standing on stage with me. But considering I never really watched her past performances I couldn't tell you either way."
"After seeing it for myself, you both were amazing," Hamuko giggled. "I wanted to ask, are you determined to become a full Shadow Operative even with your career?"
I figured this question would come up. I grabbed my chopsticks and took a moment to grab some noodles and then took a long slurp as it seemed to be much longer than I expected. Man, this spice was good. I'd have to remember this place and bring Rise here. "Yeah, I am. Maybe it sounds strange but I feel like I have a lot to make up for. Not to mention my Father's past involvement and well, both of our family's line. It is in a lot of ways a part of my heritage. But Nee-san said that Father's aims were to find a way to deal with issues as they came up as individual crisis. I think it is obvious by now that when Shadow related incidents occur, someone or something in the region it occurs is responsible for it. Our aunt, Isako-san, she also indicated that there are possible events that have fundamentally changed the world. Similar to the events in Iwatodai and Tatsumi Port Island. Not to mention the records of the Arisato line... and clearly we have ancestors that have visited the Velvet Room."
Hamuko nodded, "You saw it too, didn't you?"
"That's right," I admitted. "I have no doubts that in the future more incidents will occur. More people will be drawn into the true nature of the world. And its hard to accept that truth, and I'm sure it feels incredibly lonely. Nee-san didn't have any support while she was growing up. There is no escaping the Dark Hour after all. So, it must have been even more worrisome when the Dark Hour suddenly disappeared. The Shadow Operatives are just getting started. We have a long ways to go to be able to detect and find such incidents. And even then, the very nature of Shadows and Persona means we may not be able to find or figure out when something is happening in time. But that is why I am going to help. And someone in a unique position as mine might hear things you can't normally."
"You're right," Hamuko was smiling softly before she ate some of her food. The two of us settled into a comfortable silence as we ate. We exchanged some words about how good the food was. As we finished up we both sat back. "Kayane, you truly are strong. Stronger than me."
"Why do you say that?" I asked.
"I can't say I know if this is what I really want for my life. Shadows, Persona, I'm here because I wanted to learn the truth of my brother. And when I did, and things settled down, I just don't know where that left me. My brother was already gone. And now I had awakened and found out the truth of my own childhood. But it's like coming in at the end of the story. You can't change anything, and nothing you will do will ever change those facts. I don't know what hurts more, never knowing my brother, or seeing how loved he was by the people that did. A part of me wants to run away, to disconnect myself from everything that could connect me to my brother. But then I have Kana, and Yukari has been so amazing of a friend that she is one of my best friends. And I don't know what I would even do. I wish I could find a path that I want, like you did," Hamuko spoke softly.
"It's fine to be lost," I said and as she looked at me I smiled. "The world is a lot different than what we knew before. Both of us didn't know we even had family but now that has all changed. Accepting that truth in the face of what you've known your whole life is incredibly difficult. And it's so easy to fall in to the possibilities of what our life could have been. You want to meet your brother, for real. And it hurts knowing that he's gone, and then to be surrounded by people you are close to, who are important to you but they also experienced what you crave. And the most conflicted from then was Yukari-san. I talked to her for a bit and you came up. She said when they had discovered that you existed, that the one she loved had family. She was conflicted. She was positive that it might be painful to tell someone that they have family but they've already passed on. She is still bothered by it. And Kana-chan is always worried about you when she is away from you. Plus, you do seem rather attached to Kokoro there. Take your time, Hamuko. Our lives are far from ordinary, and trying to find yourself and a goal is difficult. It's true for everyone."
Hamuko smiled back and looked to Kokoro and reached over, gently putting her hand against the baby's cheek, "It all happened so quickly. I followed some stupid rumor on a dare, and because of that Akira and Saya-chan followed after and we ended up in a pseudo-dark hour. I awakened to my Persona there, but I would have died if the others hadn't discovered who I was and quickly were able to discover the anomaly in Inoto. So I know that wondering about the what-ifs is pointless. Yeah, you're right. I just need to give myself more time. Besides, I can be here for my niece while Yukari and Kana are working."
"I lived my life dwelling on the past, in things I couldn't change, because I couldn't accept it. I'm not going to tell you what you should do, because ultimately your decision should be whatever makes you happy. Truly happy," I know that telling people what to do wasn't how you should ever approach something. I certainly never listened to the multitude of therapists and other professionals that Mom had made me go to in order to help me. Thinking back on it I wish I had just been honest with Mom about not believing any of that would help me. "No matter what, I'm here if you need me."
She looked at me and then giggled, "Listen to you. And not too long ago you were the one that needed the cheering up."
Chuckling, I shook my head, she was absolutely right, "A bit presumptuous for me to be saying all this so soon right?"
"No, no, that isn't what I meant," Hamuko left Kokoro to rest as she picked up her tea and finished it off. Putting the cup down her eyes looked back to me. "I'm happy for you, Kayane. I really am. You're free of Nyarlathotep and it looks like your future will help you move forward. And Rise-chan will be incredibly supportive. You'll need it for your tour, no doubt."
I nodded, "I have been better. I feel more in control than before. But the panic attacks aren't gone. I managed to get through the concert but it probably took Rise an hour or so to calm me down once we were backstage in the dressing room. I'm not sure if that will ever completely go away. All this time later I still remember what it feels like when my Uncle hit me. The verbal insults are always right there in my mind. It's the curse of humanity. The tragedies and pain we experience in our life leave deep, entrenched pathways in our brain. It's meant so that we can avoid those situations in our life moving forward. A double edged sword."
Hamuko smiled big and laughed, "You sound just like Yoko when she gets to talking about psychology."
"She's the one put in charge of clearing my mental fitness, as they say. But I'm sure Yoko-chan isn't going to clear me for the Shadow Operatives any time soon," I understood the reasoning, and I agreed with it. As much as I wanted to contribute, I knew I should take the present to enjoy Synchronicity... and my time with Rise.
Hamuko checked her phone for the time, "You planning to stay here? If not you better head to the station."
I quickly pulled out my phone, "Wow, didn't realize. I should get going then." I stood up and quickly pulled out my wallet and pulled out the yen for the meal and a little extra for a tip. "Here, can I get you to..."
"Got you covered," she took my money. I moved around the table and somewhat awkwardly gave her a hug. "You really are getting better if you are initiating the hug." She welcomes it and puts her hands up around me. "Get going, you don't want to miss the last train."
"You're right," I pulled away from her. "I'll send you the tour schedule. Maybe we can line up to meet a few times."
"Sounds good, now go, go," she laughed and pushed me towards the door.
"Call me if you need anything, Hamuko," I tell her as I head out the door of the restaurant. I brought up a map on my phone as I only vaguely remember the route to the station and picked up my pace.
Hamuko, I could tell that she was really weighed down by what she knew now. I understood that better than most. But for her... her brother was dead. And she was surrounded by those that he had considered to be family. And to see how loved her brother was, it has to make her feelings about it incredibly complicated. I wonder if there is anything that I was capable of doing to help her move past that. I would do what I could for her.
Not too long after I left I found myself stepping onto the train. It be a few transfers to get back to Inaba. I pulled out my phone and saw a message from Rise.
Rise: Are you on your way back? It's getting late.
I sighed with a smile. I shouldn't worry her too much. Even if we both knew that Nyarlathotep was gone it hadn't been that long since all of that. Understandably it bothered her if I'm away from her. It was kind of entertaining, her being so worried about me but also wanting me to go out and visit people. She was the one that encouraged me to help Setsuko and meeting up with Hamuko as I had the free time. Since Rise was going to be in school for the week anyway.
Kayane: Hamuko and I had a good discussion. On the train home now, but its going to be some time so you better not be waiting around for me.
I replied back and relaxed in a seat on the train. Not many people heading out towards the direction of Okina city. From there I would be able to swap over to get to Yasoinaba station.
It was peaceful on the way back. Something I hadn't gotten much of lately. Mitsuru insisted on regular checkups with a doctor for a few months. It was a strange feeling, like me meeting all these people had been a hazy dream. Considering a lot of them I had met when I was already being influenced by Nyarlathotep. And so now, things were different. Felt different. Like emerging out of a turbulent storm. And so that was why I had probably enjoyed my time more and more every day.
After arriving back in Inaba I walked, enjoying the night sky. The moon wasn't quite a half-moon but it would be in a couple days. The night wasn't that cold, but it was August after all. I got back to my house and unlocked the front door, stepping inside. Well, Mom wasn't here, she was working back in Tokyo to finalize the plans for the bands tour. So I guess it was just...
I raised an eyebrow as I noticed a pair of familiar shoes at the door. I sighed and took mine off before locking the door behind me. Navigating through the house with only moonlight coming through the windows to guide me, I went to my room and opened it. And as I suspected I saw Rise asleep on my futon. I moved and knelt down next to her. Rise was clutching the blanket and pressed against the pillow. I reached down and pushed her hair from her eyes and could tell that she had been crying. How hard had I made it for her?
Moving forward isn't that easy. You can't forget the past. And the future is uncertain, all you can do is everything you can in the present. I leaned towards her and gently kissed her cheek before I adjusted her to be under the covers. I guess I can spoil her this once. I settle in next to her, and I put my arms around her.
"Don't worry Rise. I'm really here with you," I whisper. As I laid there with her, I eventually felt her ease up, but she shifted and turned towards me. Her eyes looking into mine.
"It's about time you got home," Rise smiled as her hand went up to my cheek. "I was waiting."
"Idiot," I chuckle. "I thought I said not to wait around for me. Shouldn't you go home?"
"You're the idiot," She then pulled me into a kiss. "My home is wherever you are."
August 12th, 2012 / Afternoon
Junes Food Court
"It feels strange meeting here again. Seems like old habits really die hard," Naoto said as everyone settled in at the long table we had used so many times in the past for the Investigation Team.
"Hard to believe it will be a while until we can all meet up again like this," Chie sighed.
"Nothing is stopping the rest of you," I spoke up. "Plus Rise and I will come back to Inaba plenty. She still has to come back for finals and such for school."
"Doesn't leave much time for socializing, you know," Chie frowned at me.
I chuckled, "No, I suppose not."
"This is what we all fought for. For our futures," Yu said. "We were going to have to part at some point."
Everyone seemed a bit solemn with Yu's words. I couldn't help but start laughing. Everyone looked to me, "What are you all looking down for? It isn't like we met up to say goodbye. We just wanted to hang out before Rise and I's schedule gets crazy. And here I thought you guys would have to convince me to move forward. I get it though. Even if we struggled, fought and encountered so much in the TV world and everything since then, we've all become close. Family, even."
Yu nodded, "This place is no longer our special headquarters. I think we've all realized that for a while but none of us really wanted to. We've seen problems on a global scale now. The world of Shadows and Persona is more complex than I think we could have imagined."
"That's for damn sure," Kanji chuckled a bit.
"Yes, and somewhat concerning that even a group like the Shadow Operatives is too small in scope to start reaching out beyond Japan," Naoto couldn't help but comment.
"Personally I would find it more concerning that so many incidents that determine the fate of the world have all happened in Japan. But equally as disturbing is if that isn't true and incidents are happening around the world," I look to Naoto who met my gaze and then shook her head.
"I see your point, Senpai. Thinking about it too much will cause unnecessary panic. I'm supposed to go back to being just a detective," Naoto smiled.
"I've been thinking about that," Yosuke put his drink down on the table. "Can we... really all just live a normal life after everything?"
"Teddie has a question! What's normal?" Teddie piped in.
"Good question, Teddie," Yu looked amused. Seriously, even now he's one dangerous guy. "We do what we always do. What we believe is right. Which is why, I think we should all at the very least become a reserve force for the Shadow Operatives."
"I'm with Yu. If we have the power to help people, then how could we just sit by and not do anything?" Yukiko supported him. Not a big surprise.
"I'm just waiting to be cleared for active duty. But Yoko is determined to not do so until after our tour," I shrugged. "Maybe I'm being reckless so soon after I'm... well myself. But all these years I've spent living in one place. Like I was trapped in a moment of time. Then I got kidnapped and thrown into a TV. A bunch of crazy underclassmen came to rescue me, and I couldn't escape the truth. Not anymore. And its thanks to all of you, coming to rescue someone who had lost his drive to live that I... I finally found it."
"Kayane," Rise had reached over and rubbed my cheek, not realizing that a tear had escaped my eyes. "It wasn't just you. I think all of us, one way or another were the same."
"That's right," Yu nodded. "I never really thought about my future, or what I wanted out of life. My parents work was always important to them. I never understood it. I kind of figured my parents were just dumping me off because they couldn't be bothered with me. But I know that isn't true. More so now than I ever have before. If anything I realize how much my parents love their work, and me coming to Inaba to live with Dojima-san was them thinking about me. I'm in high school after all, I think they were also testing me. Mom and Dad are kind of worry warts you know. And they definitely noticed my lack of... motivation. In a way, the change of scenery was what I needed. Everything is complicated and because of that it always felt like there was just... too much noise. Inaba was so different. Just walking around was so liberating. But things escalated quickly after I got here. And somehow I found myself in the middle of it. I had to face myself. To find what it was I wanted out of life... find my reason to fight. But I found... so much more than that."
"To be honest, I hated moving to Inaba. The only one that really knew that was Yu. He was there when I awakened to my Persona. If I'm being one hundred percent truthful then I really hated being here. And I hate the person I was then. Chasing after Saki-senpai, even trying to befriend Yu, was all because I was bored. Like my life was passing me by because I was out here in what I thought was the middle of nowhere. I put Yu in danger because of my selfishness. And then I tried to be all high and mighty like I had some sort of moral high ground with Chie then. Telling her we would handle it. I was just showing off, thinking I had finally found something to entertain myself. God I was such an asshole. But that changed. All of you changed me. And Inaba, its my home. It's more home than any other place I've been. I've learned a lot," Yosuke admitted and everyone seemed to understand that.
"This is the kind of things you're supposed to figure out in high school, you know," Chie tapped his shoulder. "We're all trying to figure out our futures. I think Kayane and Rise are the odd ones out here."
"That's true," Rise giggled. "And I got our whole future planned out! The wedding, how many kids we'll have and..."
I rolled my eyes and pulled Rise against me, "Don't listen to this dreamer. We aren't that set in stone."
"But we are going to get married," Rise insisted.
"They aren't really an exception to it. Like the majority of us we didn't meet until this year," Naoto took the reins of the conversation. "We all had to go through a lot to get to where we are now. Even though I am still determined to be a detective I no longer desire to do so for recognition or respect like before. As frustrating as it can be to be a woman in my field, I don't want to hide who I am. I'll let my work be all the proof I need that I belong here."
"Yeah, I never cared about that shit. About my future and all that junk," Kanji was rubbing the back of his head. "Too quick to use my fist when people didn't listen to me, ya know? At least that was the view people got of me. All of you accepting me for who I am though... I realize I got to get my shit together. Pus some serious time in my studying. And well I still want to create cute shit. But like to help keep the family business going and help Ma out."
"I guess that means we'll be studying some of the same subjects, Kanji-kun," Yukiko smiled. "I mean I already have a lot of experience helping out the Inn and doing a lot of the managing when Mom was under the weather. But I thought I was locked into that future. Even after facing myself in the TV world it wasn't like my viewpoint had changed. But I no longer was waiting to be saved from my situation. I secretly earned some money, and considered other options for my future but in the end I realized how much the Inn was a part of me, and how I was proud and loved it. It's thanks to everyone here. Especially, Yu. But also Kayane-senpai and Rise-chan. And Chie and Yosuke-kun. When you all came over for that dinner, it only solidified myself in my choices when I properly introduced them to Yu."
Oh right, that had been quite the eventful night, although the events of it were kind of hazy. That was about the time that Chie and Yosuke became an item. All of this felt like a lifetime ago.
Another individual approached and casually sat down at the end of the table.
"Mariko-chan!" Rise said as the individual we had all first met as Marie settled in.
"Sorry I'm late," she was uncharacteristically apologetic.
"Work holding you up?" Yu asked.
"Yes," she looked away. She was still dressed in her usual attire she was in when on air as the weather reporter so that much wasn't surprising. "But it isn't like I was looking forward to seeing all of you."
"I suppose part of you hasn't changed," Yu chuckled.
"What is that supposed to mean? Stupididiotjerk," Mariko glared.
"Sorry, Mariko-chan. We were just talking about how all of us have changed since Yu came to Inaba. After all, we awakened to our Persona's and had to face ourselves," Yukiko quickly explained.
"I see," Mariko nodded and looked around to everyone. "Yes I suppose I'm not immune to it either. But that was more because I had been split into three. And I'm not exactly... normal."
"You are a Goddess," I couldn't help but remark. "But now you're whole. And no longer at odds with yourself."
"Yeah," she became somewhat solemn. "I told Yu this a while ago. But I was meant to protect the world of humanity by being a part of it. To fulfill the wish of the world... but my two roles became in conflict with each other when humanity seemed to stop wishing for the truth. Because of that I was fragmented and the one you all got to know was a form that had no power or memories.. You all know how the rest of it went. But even now I realize there is a contradiction in humanity. There are those that desire to hide from the truth... and those like yourselves that bravely face each day. Because of you guys I can believe in that desire for truth."
"Considering the history of the world I understand how at odds you must have been with yourself," I find myself sighing. "Nothing about this world is simple. And dreams, wishes, and our hopes change and differ over time. From the moments where we run from the difficulties in our life... and then to the moments where we decide to fight. That's how we learn and grow. Something you've been able to see first hand, Mariko."
She looked to me for a moment, "The sea of souls... or the collective unconscious of mankind. It is responsible for entities like myself. Like Nyarlathotep. And probably many other entities that might make up different aspects of humanity."
"No point in worrying about it. This is likely just how our world works. An aspect that is hidden from the majority of mankind. Proving the existence of the human soul, and how our wishes, dreams and even what we deny about ourselves could somehow have power. Knowledge like that proven to be true would change so much about the world. But it isn't something that just anyone can experience. And I don't see how that widespread knowledge would ever be accepted without some sort of global event. But even the fog that spread across the world... its already being dismissed as some sort of phenomenon," I had thought of the possibility for a while actually. "None of us were able to experience the dark hour when it was still around, despite all of us eventually awakening to Persona. And I'm sure in the future there will be another event where others will awaken to their own, in a fight against Shadows... for a conflict that hasn't started yet."
"When we created the Investigation Team, it was because we wanted to find the truth. The TV world was a means for murder but we had to dig deeper to find why that world had the power to do that to begin with. All we can hope to do is teach those that come after us. Our children, other Persona users, that's how we take what me learn so that people won't make the same mistakes," Yu said. "Although humanity is prone to repeat its past failings."
"That is also what makes us human. To make mistakes, learn from them. But history has shown that we don't always learn our lesson the first time," Naoto seemed amused.
"Yeah, plus being like Nyarlathotep can't ever fully disappear. As humans are potential just as much for bad as they are for good," Yosuke added.
"But considering Nyarlathotep's nature, even if he gets free, he will always try to corrupt people, and well seems like he has a knack of doing so around people that have the will to stop him," I smiled and looked to Rise. "But he won't be waking up for a long long time."
"You better believe it," she then reached up and quickly kissed my cheek. "Now come on you guys, its time to have some fun."
"Yeah time for a game guys," Yosuke then produced a deck of playing cards.
"Oh no, we aren't playing cards that you clearly prepared before hand," Chie instantly rejected.
"What!?" Yosuke looked at her. "Why would I cheat at a friendly game with friends?"
"So you're saying you weren't going to try and raise the stakes with making friendly wagers?" Chie raised an eyebrow.
Yosuke realizing he had been caught just laughed.
"Yosuke!" Chie glared.
"I know! King's game! Yu, prepare the necessary items! The king has spoken," Yukiko declared.
"As you wish, my liege," Yu did a bow after getting to his feet.
"Oh, nice one, Yukiko-senpai!" Rise agreed.
"Wait, this again?" Yosuke groaned.
"But this time we have everyone," Yukiko pointed out.
"What's a kings game?" Mariko asked.
"A childish game that by random chance a King is determined and then they can ask anyone to do any task that must gradually increase in difficulty. But as I recall most of it is just increasingly more embarrassing," Naoto shook her head, likely remembering the first time they had played.
"We played this when we were on the school trip in Tatsumi Port Island. I had a spot at the club there because I was supposed to have a concert there but it had been cancelled previously. It was a fun evening... though I don't really remember much of it..." Rise explained to me but it just made me raise an eyebrow.
"Despite my reminders that the establishment did not serve alcohol, both Yukiko-senpai and Rise-chan allowed themselves to be... drunk off the atmosphere... as they put it. It was also when I was still investigating them, and they had invited me, likely as a way to get an idea how my own investigation into the murders were going. I probably wasn't much fun then," Naoto further elaborated to me.
"Well, let's not do this in the middle of the Junes Food Court. I think a change of location is in order," I said as I got up and pulled Rise up with me. "Alright, to my house guys. And dinner is on me."
"Woo hoo! PAR-TAY at Kay-chan's house!" Teddie jumped up.
August 12th, 2012 / Late Evening
Kayane's House
Yu had to peel Yukiko off of me as they were trying to leave.
"I'm so happy for you, Senpai," Yukiko seemed to slur and Leaned against Yu. She had apparently really gotten into the King's game and had acted similar to how she had in the club on their school trip from what I was told.
"Thanks, Yukiko. You need help getting her home?" I asked Yu.
He shook his head and in a swift motion picked her up into a princess carry. "I got her. It'll be a walk but I've done it many times before at this time."
"Having to carry her?" I raised an eyebrow.
He chuckled, "No but I'm sure she'll... come to her senses after a bit."
"Well then, thanks again. For everything. Even if I blame you still for setting up Rise and I," I couldn't help but jab at him a little.
"Was I wrong?" He countered.
"Clearly not," I sighed. "Talk to you later then."
He nodded, "You better go take care of your own damsel."
"What so you're a prince now?" I said mockingly.
Yu chuckled and turned to leave, "Later Senpai."
I shook my head and closed the door behind him. I turned in time to have Rise stumble into me.
"Kayane... I'm staying here," Rise smiled her words somewhat slurred like Yukiko, her cheeks a bright red.
"You are not allowed to ever drink alcohol in the future, if it isn't with me," I comment and pulled my arms around her. I closed my eyes, feeling the warmth of her body against mine. The house was empty, besides Rise and I. The silence around us was more than evidence of that. "You were planning to stay here tonight from the start."
"Maaaaaaayyybe..." Rise then pulled away from me, seemingly recovering a bit... "I'm gonna go get the bath ready."
"You're just taking advantage of the fact that you don't have to be at school tomorrow as we're leaving for Tokyo midday," I shrugged knowing it was impossible to change her mind once she was set on something.
"You're right," Rise giggled as she disappeared down the hallway. I sighed and started cleaning up the family area. Most of it was just cups and other things from the party. I had ordered some takeout from Aiya, as it seemed to be the popular choice. I was fine with it. What had started as just a get together had turned into quite the party. Yukiko demanding to be King more often than not. Yosuke and Kanji had grabbed a surplus of beverages on their way over to which the group continually downed. Soon there was basically nothing left, food and drink alike and well it kinda devolved into the silliness you would expect from everyone on the Investigation Team. The King's game wasn't as crazy as I think Yukiko wanted it to be. But things were tense when Naoto got instructed to kiss Kanji. It turned into quite a flurry of embarrassment. Naoto and Kanji both turning to a nice shade of scarlet but surprisingly Naoto quickly pecked Kanji's cheek and then immediately moved away to avoid seeing everyone staring, or the cheers coming from Yukiko and Rise about it.
Mariko ended up being the first to leave, but she was all smiles before leaving. Seeing her enjoy herself was great in itself. Not long after that Yosuke and Chie checked out, apparently both having been worn exhausted because of the high energy of the others. Teddie was forced to go as well because of Yosuke. Seeing their relationship just went to show me how different people could be. Especially among relationships. Chie and Yosuke seemed to bicker a lot but the two had basically been inseparable the whole night. At one point, Chie had removed any pretense and had just been sitting in Yosuke's lap.
Kanji and Naoto were the two to leave next. Kanji decided to leave when he realized how late it was getting, but Naoto had then asked for him to escort her home. The two were a bit awkward around each other but they left, insisting that we do something like this again once Synchronicity's tour had wrapped up. I think a lot of the group was unconsciously committed to keeping us all connected. Something that many don't realize how hard that could really be. Of everyone, I think Chie, Teddie, Yosuke, Yu and Yukiko would always have a strong relationship. Partly because Chie and Yukiko were best friends, and then Chie and Yosuke's relationship, even if it didn't work out romantically in the future... they would always be close friends. The same went with Yu and Yukiko. After all the four of them started as just people with a common goal. Their friendships just evolved from that. And Teddie... he's just a normal fixture in all of their lives now.
Naoto was going to be taking jobs as a detective again, but also be part in the Shadow Operatives, mostly as a reserve unit but using her information gathering and cases to look out for any relevant Shadow related incidents. But she was often away from Inaba normally. Kanji would still be in town for a while to finish out school But the sounds of it was he was hoping to go to a college in the city to likely pursue a business degree. Similar to Yukiko. Although in Yukiko's case, she seemed to be leaning heavier towards online courses so she could still help the inn.
The future looked different than it had at the beginning of my senior year. Then again, before meeting everyone my plan was just to disappear. To just live a mediocre life so I wouldn't worry Mom anymore. That seemed like a different person now. I didn't value my own life then, or just living in general. What was I doing? Even now it seemed I had difficulty turning my eyes away from my memories. But I suppose that was because I was still adjusting to the events that had happened.
I was cleaning up the last of the dishes in the kitchen when I was sure I had heard something. I turned off the water and listened and could hear Rise's voice. Not loud enough to be that clear but was confident she was calling for me. Drying my hands I made my way down the hall and stopped in front of the bathroom. "Rise? Were you calling for me?"
"Could you grab me the towels from the laundry room? I forgot to grab them earlier," She called out to me.
"Alright, be back in a minute," I said before turning and heading down the hall. The laundry room was on the other side of the kitchen. The house was mostly made so that the appliances and such that had a potential to be loud were a bit away from the studio. Although the studio was appropriately constructed so that wouldn't be much of an issue, it was still put in mind as just a precautionary thing. I entered the laundry room and grabbed the apparently folded dry towels from the top of the dryer. I raised an eyebrow. Wasn't normal for her to walk away from something when she was basically done with it. At least in what I had seen whenever she did some of the chores in the house. And usually did them unprompted. Mom tells me she has helped around the house sense the time I was in the hospital. And apparently stayed at my place so often that Mom didn't even blink when seeing my girlfriends shoes at the entrance way when coming home.
As I made my way to the bathroom I opened it and stepped inside. Rise seemed to be in the bath so I could just leave the towel outside of it. We had a traditional Japanese bathroom. Which the bath and wash area was physically separated and enclosed, so it wasn't like this was an unusual circumstance. I have grabbed Rise's clothes or whatnot from the other room to her while she was in the bath before.
"Rise, I'm leaving it next to the..." I started as the door to the bath slid open and a hand grabbed my wrist. The next moment I was pulled into the bath section, which was filled with steam from the hot water, but had little time to react before I found Rise pulling me into a kiss. While kissing me she turned me around and then pushed me back against the tiled wall of the room. Rise hadn't been this bold in... well had she ever been this bold with me? I kissed her back as her sudden tactic had definitely moved my own passion. That welcoming notion made Rise even bolder as she tugged on my shirt and slipped one of her hands underneath it and against my skin. Every moment the kiss lasted longer, the desire to be close grew. When I put my hands against her back I found myself alarmed that Rise was wearing nothing. My hands on her wet bare skin. Very shortly after this Rise pulled away and took my shirt off. She tossed it aside without regard to where it fell before pulling me back into another deep passionate kiss.
With my shirt off, Rise pressed her attack more by putting her chest and bare skin against mine. I found every touch and moment of this kiss only made my own lustful desires grow in a way I had never allowed myself to experience before. And even now I wanted to make it come to a halt. But the absolute hunger to allow Rise to do as she wished was drowning any sensible thought I had. This felt so... amazing. Her touch seemed to ignite more deep passion within me to break free with every moment. Before I had even been aware, Rise had helped pull off the remainder of my clothing and tossed them aside. She ran her hand down my body, trailing it down to my leg, then inside to my thigh and then stopped.
I was shaking, while my desire didn't fade I was afraid to go any further. I found myself sliding to the floor, and only a moment later, Rise was sitting next to me, pulling me close to her. "Sorry," was about all I could manage.
"No," Rise whispered. "I shouldn't have pushed you so quickly."
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, "Guess it isn't that easy is it?"
"I don't think it should be..." Rise voice was soft. "Wait, Kayane... is that..."
I didn't need to look to know what she was asking about, "Cuts on my inner thigh? Yeah they are."
Rise was silent, likely trying to figure out words to say about seeing them. I had kept a lot to myself, even after all this time. But not anymore.
I leaned my head against her, "It was after my suicide attempt. Because I was constantly being checked by doctors, psychologist, therapists and the like, I hardly intended to let them know that I was cutting myself. And Mom was occasionally shaking me down checking my arms for fresh cuts. So I... started cutting in a place that was not so easily checked. I thought I was clever able to hide such a thing. If no one saw it then there was nothing to worry about. But Mom knew that whole time that nothing was working to help me. And my psych evaluation likely noted that my habits hadn't changed."
"Before, when I saw the scars on your arm, I couldn't comprehend it. What would make someone hurt themselves? What about it could be comforting. But I think I understand after everything. It's control. Everything that happened before were things that you couldn't stop. As a victim, as someone who lost someone important to them. You realized that this was something you could control. It was a choice you could make to feel like you had..." Rise's voice stopped. She reached up, wiping a tear away that had escaped.
"You're right. But its easier to say than understand. In the end, I was still revolving around the same questions. Why did Miyuki have to die? Why was I the one that lived on? Did I deserve it?" I opened my eyes again and shifted to look at her. "Do I deserve you? To be happy? What if I betray that? What if I'm the same kind of man my Uncle was... or Miyuki's Father? I've thought about it endlessly because before I even realized it I had fallen in love with you. And even though you made me promise never to cut myself again... I did it anyway. Even if I had Nyarlathotep whispering my ear I still should have..."
Rise quickly leaned in and kissed me, pulling herself closer to me till she was nearly sitting in my lap before she broke the kiss, leaning her forehead against mine, so I could feel her breath on my lips as she spoke, "Don't be silly. I barely understood anything about you then. I was still convinced I could somehow save you with just perseverance and cheerfulness. And it was because I was already inexplicably attracted to you. Can I tell you another stupid idea I had then? I wanted to offer you my body as an alternative. That every time you thought of hurting yourself that you would instead turn to me. Instead of pain, I would give you pleasure. That was before I realized that such a thing wouldn't really help you."
"Risette the idol, offering her body to someone like me?" I was staring directly into her eyes. How could I not be affected by words like that. "If it had been anyone else then..."
"You aren't just anybody else. Other people would have definitely taken the chance to be with me. You think I would just offer my virginity to anyone?" she teased me before kissing me once more.
"Of course not," I said after the kiss ended. "And I want too. I really do. I wish I could forget all of that and then... but I need more time it seems. I'm afraid. Of hurting you... hurting us. Plus you still have another year and change of school. I know that if we were slow and took our time that I could finally get past it..."
She giggled which made me stop. She kissed me again and then slowly pulled away, "Mmm, yeah I can tell. I just couldn't handle it, you know? When I watch you perform... when you are at that piano and I hear your voice. You send shivers through me that get me so damn horny. It also makes me want to drag you off to an isolated room to show you how much you wind me up. But I think I've got you sufficiently wound up in return today."
"You have us both naked in the bathroom so I would say you've definitely shown me something today," I can't help but remark.
"I'm all yours," she said in a low whisper to entice me. "I love you. And I would never force you before you're truly ready."
"I love you too," I kissed her this time.
"Mmm," she pulled back. "But since I have you here. How about I wash your back for you?"
August 13th, 2012 / Early Morning
Kayane's House
It was a strange feeling when I started to wake up in the morning. Because laying next to me was Rise. One of her hands over my chest, and a leg over my own. I didn't notice at first but I apparently her hand was underneath my shirt and against my bare skin. I looked to see that Rise had taken one of my shirts instead of her own clothes. Just like the first time she had stayed the night at my place. Only a couple weeks after the two of us met. Naturally she had stayed in the guest room that night. I had been actively cold to her then. Doing a bad job at pushing away from her. After all I accepted her offer to do the Culture Festival, and then I just found her around me all the time after that.
Rise snuggled against me, my arm underneath her neck and I easily held her against me. I could feel her breath against me, long easy breaths indicating how comfortably she was sleeping.
I wanted to comment on how lucky I was but that wouldn't be accurate. The circumstances that brought us together weren't great ones. Rise's Uncle died, which led to her questioning why she was still an idol. Wondering what it was that people saw and if it was really her. She came to Inaba to escape, to forget about that. But she became a target for kidnapping and thrown into the TV where Narukami Yu and his friends went in and saved her. She had to face herself and gained her Persona. Her way to healing had started then. They would go through a lot until I would come into the picture.
My life leading up to this was more complex than I had known because of how young I was when my parents were killed. I was just three years old at the time. My Father's work had made him a target, but my Sister and I were considered too young to be of consequence. So when we survived it was left to the courts to sort out. Being as I was the eldest son and only one capable of passing on the family name, at least in a traditional manner. It was ruled that I would be adopted by my Uncle but as he was unable to properly care for us both, my older sister was put up for adoption. So I moved in with my Uncle.
Too young to understand much of what had happened... all I really know was that Uncle hated me. He put up the illusion of the caring Uncle though. Paying for piano lessons and a tutor to live up to a specific standard. After all my Uncle was a politician. If it was seen how well I did in school and had a skill like playing the piano it would boost his own reputation for footing the bill for those opportunities he gave me. Something I understood now, but not then. The physical and emotional abuse was just normal to me. I did as I was told, but then I met Miyuki. She became the family, the older sister I didn't know I had. She was the one that told me that none of that was okay. But I also found that she was suffering as well.
Miyuki's death at the hands of her Father sent my life spiraling out of control and I was unable to accept it. Mom protected me from the worst of it. Picking me up from school, adopting me, taking me away from the city and to Inaba. Then she did all she could to try and help me. But I didn't want help. After my suicide attempt and seeing how it affected Mom, I had decided to just finish school then move away. After that I could eventually just fade away and in a few years... kill myself then. I figured it would be the least intrusive and time after I move away would allow Mom to not be so affected by my death. That was the plan. Obviously, it went a much different route.
I discovered the voice of one Kujikawa Rise, the newest idol that would come to be known as Risette. Where I was entranced by the song named 'Star Bright'. And it inspired me to write music again. And I felt... like maybe there could be something for me in this world. It was a couple years later when the serial murders and kidnappings were happening that I was targeted. I was thrown into the TV world. Where I met people that would become not just friends, but a second family. As well as Rise herself. I'll never forget when I first saw her there. She was crying, for me. Someone who didn't believe he was worth the tears.
In the end, she proved me wrong. I didn't think I had anything worth fighting for, but she still fell in love with me. I ended up fighting with them in the TV world. Thinking I had to make it up to them for them risking their lives for my own. Then it was one ordeal after another. I ended up in a coma and when I woke up I felt like I couldn't deny it anymore. I was attached to these people. And Rise... I couldn't imagine not having her around so... we started dating. We saved Marie... we tracked down the real killer, and then we solved the origins of the TV world. But then we were thrust into other incidents. The discovery of Labrys and her time in the TV world. Meeting the Shadow Operatives, then the appearance of Kagutsuchi-no-Okami and the red tower. Meeting my cousin, and finding out that I had a sister who was alive.
Then when all of that was settled and I had met my sister was when I was taken by my Shadow who would reveal himself to by Nyarlathotep. And Rise, she would fight through so much in order to get to me. To save me. Now our band, Synchronicity had debut, and we would be going on tour. All while dating her, and keeping that a secret from the public. But our friends knew and its all that really mattered to me.
It wasn't luck, there was a lot we had to fight through and face to get here. And because of it I was finally able to face and accept Miyuki's death and that... I'm allowed to keep living, to smile, to be happy.
"Kayane..."
Rise had let out my name is less than a whisper and if it hadn't been as quiet as it was I wouldn't have caught it. I looked at her as she shifted a bit and moved her hand across my chest and pulled herself closer to me.
"...I love you so much..." her voice spoke again ever so softly.
Seemed like she was dreaming, or close to waking. I relaxed a bit and brought my hand up to stroke her cheek and then into her hair, cradling her against me. She seemed to react positively to it and just a few moments later she was sleeping easy once more. I closed my eyes as I felt that same comfort washing over me. As I found myself slowly drifting back to sleep, I had a thought I don't think I have ever had before.
"I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings for us."
A/N:
I meant to have this posted a couple weeks ago, but I've been personally dealing with some depression issues so it was very much not on my list of things to care about. That being said, the only thing left is the epilogue for the story. I'll use the Epilogue to also address some general questions on what I'm doing next. Including the state of Momento Reliquum, the followup for my Persona 3 story Momento Umbrae. And then general other fanfiction plans I have. Like me finally getting a chapter up for my Chrono Trigger fic, and also my Persona 5 story and what is happening with that.
Now about the chapter itself. I mean it is basically a goodbye to the cast. It was a long journey to get here. And well there were a lot of ups and downs, especially for me. The story originated as a much different story, with a much different focus. And my decision to include all the other games and work them into the narrative had extended it but two or three times. And at a point I was kind of against it. Not because it wasn't a story I wanted to tell, but just because of the sheer length of it. In the future I'll likely separate games off into their own stories. (Like Persona 5 and the upcoming Scramble/Strikers game)
The Shadow Operatives is something I like the idea of. It also makes it easy to make the whole world of Persona easy to connect together. Though I don't really have any confidence of it being used in that capacity in future Persona games as much as I believe they should. And I can't really believe a lot of the crap that the endings of the Persona games seem to imply. That people can just go back to living a normal life after experiencing this. Mitsuru created the Shadow Operatives, but you want me to believe that someone like Akihiko wants to become a cop? Give me a break. What good is the strength he aims for going to do him in that position instead of becoming a full time Shadow Operative? An organization that has become a branch of the government.
I understand Mitsuru not wanting to force any of them to join it, but as they were all Persona users, how would she not at least put that out there for them? Even in the Arena fighting games, it is just all of them allowed to go back to their own lives. I just don't buy it, especially from a character point of view. They start giving Yu characterization and it feels more to me that him joining the Shadow Operatives would be a logical move for him as a Wild Card user. Or Chie, same as Akihiko, shifting her goal from police officer to Shadow Operative. I would claim the same for Yosuke too, who never really had an established dream for his future.
Maybe it's just me, but I feel there is a major point of contention to be made about how a lot of the Persona games tend to end. If you take the series as a whole, the only individuals that stay connected to Persona/Shadow business are the two that are heads of companies that are directly tied to it. The Nanjo Group from Persona 1 and the 2 duology, and of course, Mitsuro and the Kirijo Group. And I have a few annoyances of them name dropping the Nanjo Group and the Kirijo Group and then the Nanjo Group having zero presence in any capacity beyond that. I just don't believe that the events happening would escape the Nanjo Group who are well aware of Persona and other events. You better believe I'm going to go into this in Memento Reliquum! /end rant
Honestly, I could go on and on about them claiming the Persona universe to be in the same continuum and yet logical things that should happen are incredibly absent. Persona 5 is the worst offender in this regard, but I'll get into that when I get back to my Persona 5 fic Bitter Fool. So more on that at a later time.
To go back to Kayane and Rise at the end here, let me just say that Rise was never that high on characters I liked in Persona 4. Yukiko was my favorite among the female characters. And I think a lot of that has to do with how much more relatable her problems were compared to others on the cast. One of the major issues I have with the latest Persona games is that the victims early on in the game have a great deal more character development than those later on. Yukiko is established out of the gate. The Amagi Inn is a big deal as one of the few tourist locations in the town. Even more of a big deal if you know why tourism and locations like this are the lifeblood of small towns like Inaba. We know that Yukiko is basically expected by everyone to eventually take over the Inn, as it is a part of her family. Everybody talks about it. Even her best friend, Chie, makes the assumption that Yukiko wants to do this. Everyone knows what it is like to have expectations put on them. We all are forced to do things in our youth because our parents tell us to do. As far as Yukiko was concerned, her future was decided for her. And no one ever asked her what it was that she wanted. It's easy to relate to that kind of problem, and I think that no matter who you are... there is something your parents or guardians set down a rule that you didn't want to, or didn't understand why you had to follow.
In contrast I think Rise was much harder to relate to. Not because she was an idol, or that she believed that no one really saw her. Because I think that crisis is something everyone goes through at a certain point. What bothered me more was the apparent lack of support structure she had. Why did she come to live with her Grandmother? Why were her parents never mentioned? Why did she not seem to have any friends in school? When she voiced her intention to quit, why was there no attempts to make her see a counselor or therapist? I don't see a company allowing her to just walk away without assurances that something was being done to potentially bring her back. Especially with how popular that make it seem she was. Claiming she was one of the biggest idols at that point in time. There is so much detail and such that just isn't there. So early on, as I thought about the characters... she is really a glaring question mark about so many things. I think Naoto is second in this regard with similar questions, but it isn't so glaringly bad as this. Everyone from Inaba, like Yosuke, Kanji, Chie and Yukiko just don't have this problem. The only question I have about Kanji is what happened to his parents. Also what is with most of these characters living with grandparents and parents being AWOL?
Anyway... as Kayane got developed it just became natural for Rise to be involved with him. Because of that I was able to explore a lot of the questions I had about Rise. And also to explore writing about music, which I had never really done. Which meant I ended up writing a lot of lyrics, which I can't say if any of them were any good. But it was a fun change, and making it all connect together. Very early on, when I thought up the idea of "Star Bright" being a song that connected the two of them together, I wanted it to also be the thing that would eventually save Kayane. Still, even if he's free from Nyarlathotep's influence... panic attacks and that is not so easily dealt with. So part of the end here I wanted to show that, yeah, Kayane was better but he still had to keep fighting, and would keep fighting every day to be happy.
I'll be putting up the Epilogue for this story, hopefully next week or so. I hope you've all enjoyed the story. And while I'm sure it is rough in a lot of places that it was a journey I knew I needed to complete. So Thanks for taking the time to read my story. I appreciate it greatly.
