AN: I would like to thank Arcana Compendium for his support! If you like, check out his story Persona C.I.T.Y. Thanks to everyone else who favourited or followed, as well. Also, please read and review! Also, I'm going to go back and make sure the date is always at the top of the chapter, unless it's following directly on from the previous.
Chapter 70: Orchestral Despair
|September 26th|Saragel - Café Roma|10:24 am|
Richard was waiting outside, drumming his fingers on the table. The Café offered an excellent breakfast menu, and so he and Karl had agreed to meet there that morning with the rest of Richard's friends. Today was the final day of Motion Vanguard, and so everyone was making the most of their holiday. It would not be until the middle of October until the next. Bianca was eyeing the attractive trellis above them, whilst Kazuya had his eyes on her. Alastair chuckled at the two lovers, and started browsing the menu.
"Isn't it wonderful to have breakfast outdoors in such good weather?" Bianca said. "The fresh breeze is magnificent, and the food here is so fresh!"
"I agree. Italian food is always magnificent. Even at breakfast time." Alastair said. "Plus, I've never had such refined coffee. Yet I shouldn't spoil my appetite. Tonight, I'm meeting someone."
"Oh?" Kazuya said. "It wouldn't happen to be Miranda, would it?"
"So she said yes! That's fantastic!" Richard said. "I didn't know you liked older women, though. Are cougars that hot?"
"She's only about six years older than I am!" Alastair said, smirking. "But there's something about the charm of a mature woman. Especially the way she winked at me when we were in the elevator together."
"Reaching new levels of romance." Bianca said. "Okay, that was bad. But this is great! What exactly does Miranda do at Motion Publishing? She's not part of your magazine, is she?"
"She's in charge of her own publication, actually. From what I hear, she's rather respected. I feel I'm going to learn a lot from her. In return, I'll be able to take her to the fine eateries of this city. Most of which you've seen, of course." Alastair said.
"Don't get discouraged, Richard." Kazuya said. "If you win the final, you're probably going to be famous! Although you might get some crazy fans after you. Like the one who sent you a poppadom in the post."
"Oh yeah. But that was for Rashid. He ate it anyway." Richard said, laughing. "Anyway, I'm too busy for girls at the minute. I'm surprised I've got time to eat breakfast with you guys."
"It must be a lot of pressure, preparing for the biggest sporting event of our nation." Alastair said. "You can expect to see us there in the stands, cheering you on. Oh, and I'll introduce all of you to Miranda very soon. She already knows mostly what to expect, so I think we'll get along fine."
As the team discussed Alastair's burgeoning love life, Karl ran up to the table, sweating buckets. He wore a tight white vest and his blue shorts, as well as his black trainers.
"Whoa. In training already?" Kazuya said. "I hope you remembered deodorant..."
"Sorry I'm late, everybody...I got a bit carried away with the leg curls." Karl said. "I feel like I've been preparing for this moment my whole life. My whole future rests on this match. If I don't win, I might not get another chance. So I have to keep going, until every part of me is ready!"
"That's the spirit." Bianca said. "Perhaps you should avoid overdoing it, though. If you tore a muscle, what then?"
"I know..." Karl said. "I need a little break for now. Richard, what's our plan for this afternoon?"
"We've got the team training session from 12-4. Beyond that, I'm ready for anything!" Richard said. "There's always that run up Lucille Hill. The breeze will keep us cool."
"Perhaps I should get more active like you. I have been eating a lot lately due to this job...and I daresay tonight will be another big meal." Alastair said, gazing at his stomach. "Although I couldn't wake up at five in the morning like you do. With my hours, at least."
"What are you worried about? Alastair, you're a handsome, strapping gentleman. Miranda must find something about you charming if she's going out with you tonight! You just focus on your common ground." Bianca said.
"Love is in the air, I take it?" Karl said. "Must be nice...I've got too much on to worry about that. But don't mind me. Good luck to you."
They ordered breakfast, as Karl and Richard mentally prepared for an afternoon of nothing but exercise. For the other three, it would be a relaxing afternoon free of worry.
|Other World - Legarte Riverbank|12:40 pm|
"Ugh..."
Roger wearily opened his eyes, and rubbed the sleep out of them. The previous evening, he had managed to get inside one of the few cruisers still on the river. Having become weary by constant fighting and running, he was eager to get his head down. Another evening's sleep interrupted by Shadows would have been hell. It was somewhat of a change to sleep on a comfortable bed instead of a park bench or just the stone cold floor. Yet it was lonely, being all alone.
Even so, he never felt this terrible before he was discovered by Archibald. In fact, he didn't feel much of anything. Perhaps emptiness - no one was his friend anymore. Kanaloa's destruction had taken away his family, and most of his friends. Life became a fight to survive, just like now.
"I didn't know what I was missing out on, back then..." Roger said. "And since I fucked up then, I'm stuck like this again. What the hell am I gonna do now?"
He knew one thing for certain. He would never return to the Ater Vox. Archibald and him were through. While the prospect of regenerating the entire world had some appeal, he couldn't go through with such a scheme. Karen would never forgive him for that - and no one else would. Yet he didn't know where to find any of the other rebels. He kept hoping - and dreaming - of a scenario where he would save them from trouble.
"Am I a moron or what? They're not going to let me back cause I saved their bacon."
He got dressed, took his weapons, and moved to the deck. There was a slight breeze, and the sky was clear. After a few nights sleeping in the rain, it was good to be dry for once. He yawned, stretching his arms.
"Good afternoon, Roger Martin."
Roger turned around, and glared at the man who spoke. Archibald, with a very smug smile. Four Ornatu Legion soldiers were right behind him, equipped with weapons.
"Oh, lovely! I was just thinking about you, Archie!" Roger said. "These your friends? They look like this breeze could make them fall over!"
"Do not disrespect Sir Archibald!" a Japanese girl said.
"Quiet, Miharu." Archibald said. "I received some reports regarding you lately. Causing disturbances in civilised areas we've fought so hard to protect. Just last night, you robbed the Aeternus Supply Complex. Seems like you're struggling by yourself."
"Come on, 'Sir Archibald'. Do you think I'm gonna come begging so you'll let me back into the Last Soldiers?" Roger said.
Archibald laughed uproariously. The four Ornatu Legion soldiers looked at each other and shrugged.
"Dear Roger, I'm afraid that's no longer an option. So hearing you say that makes things much simpler. I just thought I'd like to impart with you some information. It might be relevant to recent events, too." Archibald said, smirking. "Did you know who Nihane found lurking in Inanis recently?"
"Let's not play dumb. I know what happened. Tomas and Rudo are back, aren't they?" Roger said. "If they are, then you guys must be crapping your pants. With the power they've gained, even Nihane must be scared by now."
"It's safer to say he's being cautious. As powerful as Nihane is, he does not take any risks." Archibald said. "Alas, our two foes have yet to make their move, yet it can only be a matter of time. Inanis will soon become a battlefield, filling the empty realm with bloodshed. You can expect me to be there, right by Nihane's side."
"Do whatever you want. Gives the rebels a chance to stop the last Divine Spark!" Roger said.
"I'm sure it does. Especially since you've had such a great track record so far." Archibald said, laughing. The Ornatu Legion Soldiers were especially confused now, and there was some anxious muttering. "Quiet, all of you! Oh, and Roger...I wasn't referring to those old fools. Someone else showed up in Inanis...and she had some rather harsh words for you!"
Roger froze. His hands went numb, and his eyes widened. This couldn't be right. How could it be? Keisha could never have survived - yet eight others had...
"So what did you do with her? Finish her off?" Roger asked.
"On the contrary. She was rather disaffected with your group. And she voluntarily offered her services to us. I was surprised myself..." Archibald said. "If you like, you can beg for her forgiveness at the Terpischore Opera House. She might be preoccupied with the Trauma Shadows you've doubtless encountered..."
"Dammit!" Roger cried. He raised his weapons, and rushed at Archibald - but the other soldiers stood in his way. "Get out of my way, losers!"
"Michelle! Miharu! Stephen! Tristan! I leave this man to you. I have other matters to deal with!" Archibald said, and with that, he vanished. The soldiers summoned their Personas - Vouivre, Xi Wang Mu, Tonatiuh and Mahamayuri. Each of them looked powerful, but they were still artificial.
"Looks like I have no choice but to fight again." Roger said. "Kanaloa!"
|Aeternus HQ - Chamber of Eternity|13:00 pm|
Nihane stood in the centre of the room, and began channelling his power. Soon, the runes on the floor and wall began to glow blue on the left side, and red on the red. Then Janus emerged.
You have beckoned us in the Chamber of Eternity, the relic of Amurdad. Nihane Kronos, heir of our power - do you desire our counsel?
"Indeed. I need to regain control of the Divine Spark of Saragel, as soon as possible. Yet the only being I found there was that Keisha girl. What has become of Rudo Furaha and Tomas Weiken?"
We cannot say. Perhaps their bodies are intangible for the time being. They may no longer have conscious minds. From the sheer moment of energy that surrounded their bodies as they fell, it is safe to say that their very existence has been altered beyond repair.
"Pathetic. If it were me, I would have remained in control of my ego and body. Even so, I need to prepare the assault on the Museum. I cannot allow those two to continue their schemes...yet it is too soon to allow my comrades to perish. Will you aid me in my mission?"
There is no need to request our help, Lord Nihane. We have served your lineage from the dawn of time, and will continue even after all is over. Your two adversaries may be fierce, yet our power will see you through. If you truly wish to protect your allies, then we shall grant you the ability to do the same. Once you have vanquished your foes, the rebels remain a threat.
"Those fools? I'm not worried about them! Although that Amara girl seems to produce unusual effects within me. Most severely was the previous confrontation. What exactly happened to me?"
You need not worry about that. Ever. We are all you need. Do not dwell on what enemies can do to harm you. Ever. Do you understand? You must deliver upon us your undying trust and faith. For we shall eternally guide you.
"Of course. Forgive me for any moments of doubt. Now then, when the time comes, I will need to be prepared. So I shall prepare an army of Shadows from Inanis itself...I suspect our enemies will do the same." Nihane said. He dismissed Janus, and left the Chamber of Eternity. He must do as his Persona asked of him, if he wanted his dream world to come true.
Janus had told him his dreams a decade ago, and he must obey them.
|Farawell - Outside Warehouse|13:57 pm|
"Awesome, everyone's here!" Zao said, as he ran up. "Karl, I know you don't need it, but good luck for tomorrow! And for today too, really."
"Thanks, Zao. I'll be alright. I'm not worried, after all the training I've been doing." Karl said. He flexed his arms, and pointed to the gloves he was wearing. "I knew boxing lessons twice a week were a good idea! Tonight, those Shadows are gonna be my new punching bags!"
"Atta boy!" Blaine said, as he messed up Karl's hair. "Tell you what. How about I tag along sometime? Maybe Dan too? We'll give you a real challenge!"
"You're on, big guy!" Karl said. "Zao, you're welcome too."
"Uh..." Zao mumbled. "I get enough exercise reeling in those fish every day! You guys need it the most!"
"If you say so, pipsqueak." Blaine said, chuckling. "C'mon, let's get going. Serena's ignoring us again."
"No I'm not. I'm just trying to get a Shiny Tepig." Serena said, gazing into her handheld's screen. "No, that nature's no good. Lemme hatch a few more eggs, okay?"
|Secret Base|14:11 pm|
At the base, Kyle was busy as ever on his computer. He had a microcomputer attached to it via USB, and he seemed to be sending data to it, only to get frustrated when error messages appeared. Aimee, however, was having a relaxed dinner with Tara, Priscilla, Seraphina and Karen.
"You came!" Aimee said, when she saw Karl. "You look a lot stronger than I remember...ten years have really gone since -"
"Please don't say it. Everyone, I promise I'll work hard and help you all!" Karl said. "Aimee, you can count on me. Just like the old days."
"That's right! You and Zao always looked out for me. It's a little different than I imagined, but we're all back together again!" Aimee said. "Kyle, are you going to be on that machine all day long?"
"I'm almost done..." Kyle said. "Oh! Serena, glad to see you. Want to see what I've been working on?"
"Of course I do!" Serena said. She hurriedly grabbed a chair and went next to Kyle, as the others laughed.
"They're so cute together, don't you think?" Tara said. "I just wish I knew what they were going on about."
"We can hear you, Tara!" Kyle said. "And for the record, I was not talking about a male sheep!" Shaking his head, he opened up a rather complicated looking interface. Serena looked at it, trying to interpret what Kyle had designed.
"Okay...Kyle, what is all this? You're trying to put data in this thing and send it to the mini computer, right?" Serena asked.
"Exactly. I had Roger helping me on this, but for now I'm going solo. The idea is, you can input data on other people - or make them up - and store it on the 16 GB card in the microcomputer. Once you do that, you can create an artificial construct that acts like a real person, using the information!" Kyle said. "So if you give them a Persona, or just Persona based magic, you can take them on in a duel!"
"Really? That sounds incredible!" Serena said. "Hey, you've got Pierre on screen. Loki too. Who else is on there?"
"I put on some of us, Pierre and Josephine, and a few Ornatu Legion soldiers. The thing is, I can't get it to send Pierre's data at all. It only works if I use the data stored on this machine, and this place isn't big enough for a test match. So I have quite a few bugs to sort out..." Kyle said. "Man, if only you could do this kind of stuff without Shadow power. Then I could make millions!"
"Karl, you'll get used to him. When it comes to his technology, he never stops talking. It's quite adorable, really." Karen said.
"Stop talking about me as if I'm some sort of Russian dwarf hamster!" Kyle said. "Ahem. I'm going to do some debugging. There isn't a hardware fault - I made sure to solder everything perfectly onto the printed circuit board."
"How did you get your hands on that computer stuff, anyway?" Lucy asked. "Did you steal one of the computers Aeternus use?"
"No, of course not. The parts in those would be too small to use for this prototype. I had to get them ordered specially. Or rather...get Matthew to do it." Kyle said.
"Really? Were they expensive?" Serena asked.
"He didn't say, but it can't have been cheap, getting them sent all the way to Clairdol Village. But he did it, so I made sure to put everything together perfectly. That's why I have to get this working..." Kyle said. Lucy blinked, and turned to Blaine, who just shrugged.
Suddenly, Seraphina stood up, alarmed. Hecate was behind her, sensing the environment - and Seraphina grew more and more panicked.
"Everyone, heed my words this instant! In a Stadium where champions once competed for dominance, located in Saragel, your counterparts of this plane are present - yet I sense a strong presence. One of sheer malevolence!"
"What? MY Stadium?" Karl asked, furious. He clenched his fists, shaking. "What's going on there?" Aimee shuddered, frightened.
"For a while now, we've noticed Ornatu Legion soldiers go in and out of that place. Whenever they leave, they're usually exhausted, sometimes injured. Upon observation, some that go in don't come out..." Karen said. "And so Aimee asked Serena, Amara, Nathan and Blaine to investigate yesterday, but they came back with nothing."
"Really? Where are they now?" Amara asked.
"Your counterparts of our domain are feasting on ice cream in Saragel Promenade, after 'cleaning up' the area, as Sir Blaine deemed it." Seraphina said. "Yet we must take action!"
"Um...could I ask the six of you to take care of it?" Aimee asked. "I'm coming too, of course. Everybody else should stay here on guard."
Zao was quiet. The others looked at each other, puzzled, but Zao was in a rare moment of deep contemplation.
"Seraphina, what IS this presence?" Zao asked.
"I...have felt it before. Several times." Seraphina said. "The mysterious figure from the basement in the Miller Mansion. The bandaged man from the shopping centre. This presence is the same figure!"
Zao turned to the others, looking stern. Then, he went straight to the NDD.
"We have to go." He said, staring directly into Amara's eyes. "It's up to us to find out exactly what that thing is."
"Yeah. You're right." Amara said. We know what it is. But why is it you?
"You all look serious. I better be prepared, then." Karl said. "Lead the way, Zao."
The seven of them marched through the NDD. Five of them, however, knew what was coming.
|Nova Albion - George Cross Avenue|14:16 pm|
Roger had survived the battle, and to his relief, none of his opponents had suffered serious injuries. Fighting Shadows was easier to deal with - they weren't living things. Yet for human opponents, Karen's harsh words echoed in his head as he swung his weapons.
"Perhaps I never should have come back. Then I could be making millions and living somewhere real nice." Roger said to himself. "But then I'd probably be desperate to find out what happened to Karen. Maybe I'd be even more miserable."
The exact moment Shadows had emerged, he had left Kanaloa to meet a client about a business venture. Then everything happened in swift succession. He couldn't get back to Kanaloa, and his ambitions would never come to fruition. For a time, he lived in fear and regret. He lacked the power to do anything about the situation, and his entire hometown was gone.
When everything seemed lost, it happened. Philemon's words. The aura, the sensation inside...the power of his own mind. Kanaloa had saved him. Now, Roger could freely walk the streets and defeat anything that opposed him - and those who did often wound up dead, if they were foolish enough to attack.
"If only I had thought of something useful to do. I cared about was being strong enough to survive." Roger said, looking around the area. The Opera House was near here, he remembered. It wasn't likely to be a Divine Spark location, considering what had already transpired at the Miller Mansion a while ago, but Keisha was apparently there. And the idea of his friends having to fight her was unbearable.
He finally saw the building. A grand dome-shaped complex, intricately decorated with several statues and murals depicting various legendary figures. He looked up, and bit his lip.
If she's not going to join the others again, she'll end up fighting them. Matthew will be heartbroken...if she just came back, then everything might be fine. This is the only way to spare Matthew that pain...even if he hates me for the rest of our lives.
He went inside, ready for a furious battle.
Meanwhile
The Holy Cross had just finished delivering their unique brand of justice upon a gang of errant Shadows. Alastair proudly retrieved his sword from the ground, having used it to impale a Mother Shadow with extreme prejudice.
"Victory is ours!" he proclaimed.
"Darkness will be banished!" Bianca yelled.
"We will never be conquered!" Kazuya roared.
"Don't cross the Holy Cross!" Richard bellowed.
Matthew and Dan looked on, and chuckled. They had mostly sat back and watched as the Holy Cross let their teamwork get the better of them, and it had been entertaining to watch. Alastair and the others saw more Shadows in the distance, and without looking at their companions, rushed into another battle.
"You know what? I think we can leave them be." Dan said. The two of them started walking further up the road. "Wouldn't want to cramp their style."
"Yeah..." Matthew said, frowning. "Besides, Richard was going on and on about Keisha, and I just wanted to smack him in the jaw."
"Whoa. That's pretty violent coming from you." Dan said, concerned. "But what's Richard done to get you so pissed off?"
"It's not really him, it's...well, Keisha." Matthew said. "He had a crush on her big time. It was obvious, even to her. She told me what she really thought of him, but...she made me promise not to tell anyone."
"Ah. Even me?" Dan said. "If you really want me to keep a secret, I will."
"She...hates him." Kyle said. "She doesn't even know why. But the more she saw of him, the more she felt hatred welling up inside of her. She told me the night we...um..."
"Oh." Dan said. "You don't have to tell me about that part. But Keisha, did she like you?"
"Of course she did! We kissed in front of the beach. I was talking about how romantic the sunset was, and then she just leant forward, and...it felt amazing. She was beautiful..." Matthew said. "Then we went for a walk, holding hands, and before we knew it, it was night time. So I offered to let her stay at my place that evening, and she looked so happy. I had no idea she had so much pain hidden away..."
"C'mon, Matthew. You couldn't get rid of her issues with a night of unbridled passion. I don't even know what unbridled means, but that's not the point. But the way I see it, little guy...you made her happy. She needed a friend, and you were there for her. You don't know how proud I am to see my little brother looking out for people." Dan said. "So c'mon, wipe away your tears."
"Tears...?" Matthew said. He reached below his eyes, and gasped. "I didn't even know I was crying!"
"Good thing you've got me, eh?" Dan said. "Shit, I don't see the Holy Cross guys anymore. They probably ran on ahead."
"Whatever. Let's do our own thing!" Matthew said. "Hey, that's the big opera place, isn't it?"
"Yeah. Terpischore Opera House." Dan said. "A date took me there once. And since I fell asleep halfway through, it WAS only once!"
"You uncultured swine." Matthew said, mirthful. "Wait. There's someone over there!" He squinted as he tried to make out the man near the building. He had short blonde hair and a red outfit...and he recognised the man's frame. He slowly sneaked inside, loudly slamming the door behind him. "No way! What is that idiot doing here?"
"What? It's not one of the Ater Vox guys, is it?" Dan said. "Carlos? Pierre?"
"No, it's Roger!" Matthew said. "That stupid bastard! Get back here!"
Despite Dan's confused protests, Matthew charged straight ahead. He threw the doors open, running inside.
|Terpischore Opera House|14:20 pm|
Matthew was greeted by faded red carpets, dirty golden pillars and paintings leaning on walls. Roger was nowhere to be seen, however.
"Roger! Show your face! I'm gonna tear you to pieces, you coward!" Matthew shrieked. He began opening doors both left and right, only to be greeted by abandoned dressing rooms or gift shops. Angry, he stormed forward and kicked down the doors to the stage.
"The hell was that!?" A female voice said. "You?! Why are you here?"
"...Keisha?!" Matthew exclaimed. "No, it can't be - You're really here?"
Her hair was brown - the original colour, as she had divulged to him, and she had changed her costume. Yet she had another one of her hats on, and another pair of glasses. There was no mistaking it. Keisha Vivaldi was back.
"Matthew..."
"This is incredible!" Matthew shouted. Throwing caution to the wind, he raced towards the stage, whilst Keisha looked on in horror. Despite her shocked face, he wrapped her arms around her as tight as possible.
"What are you doing?!" Keisha yelled.
"I missed you...I missed you!" Matthew said. His eyes were filled with tears of joy, and his heart was pounding. "We all thought you were dead! Keisha..." He finally let go. In his delirium, he couldn't notice her immense sigh of relief as she was free. "I never had a chance to say it that evening, but...I think I'm in love with you!"
"Wow. You must be the world's worst detective." Keisha said, coldly. "Could you not see it at all? You were pretty cute, I admit. Easily the most handsome out of all of your friends. I thought maybe a night with you would take my mind off things - and you always had a soft spot for me, so I knew you wouldn't say no."
"...What?!" Matthew said. "That's...you're joking, right? We had that long walk by the beach!"
"Exactly. How romantic...and cheesy." Keisha said. "I knew you were the typical romantic type, who liked sunsets, candlelit dinners, and dancing. So you were ripe for the taking...you idiot."
"...How can you talk to me like that?!" Matthew said, stunned. "Keisha, are you really saying you just used me? I was crazy about you! And when I thought you were dead, I..."
"Oh, so you were crushed after I got sucked into the Divine Spark? That's nice." Keisha said, smirking. "Someone like you should have known, though. My bubbly act? Dancing around, hugging everybody? How could you not see it? That was just an act! If you had just been able to figure it out, maybe I would have loved you back! But all you gave a shit about was getting under the sheets!"
"Don't turn this around on me! That's what you wanted!" Matthew cried. "So what, I'm the bad guy cause I didn't find out about your past?"
"Not exactly. You're just stupid! You were all on about our future together, remember? One little kiss and you were away with the fairies! I kept thinking...maybe you're not that dumb. Maybe you could be more than a one night stand. But I was wrong! You only gave a crap about yourself. You even said you couldn't wait to show off our relationship to Richard. Why would I love someone who uses his girlfriend to brag?" Keisha said icily.
"...I'm sorry." Matthew said. "Maybe I did get carried away, but...that was because I liked you so much! And I meant it when I said I loved you! Keisha, how did you even survive? You must have been through hell!"
"Oh, I was." Keisha said. "I saw my past, but without any memories to know it was my past. Then it all came back together. My name is Keisha Vivaldi, and now I know what I have to do. This life has been rotten. My family is gone! Nick and Brad are dead! You see? I have nothing, nothing at all."
"I know life in this city is hard. No, more than that. It's sheer hell, pure and simple. But we're going to fight against it! And we will win, no contest!" Matthew said. "So come with me! We can start over. Even if you don't love me, at least be our ally! Roger's not here anymore, either! In fact, we can kill him together!"
"You're still an idiot." Keisha groaned. "The thing is, you guys aren't really after what I want. And so what if you're not with him anymore? I only joined up so I had a chance to kill him. There's someone else who gave me a better purpose in life, anyway."
"What? You don't mean..." Matthew said. He was interrupted by a loud beep. Keisha pulled out a phone, and answered.
"Keisha speaking. What's the message?"
"I just wanted to let you know that your tethering to the Melancholic Diva is complete. You may conjure her as you please." Nihane's voice said.
"Right on time. You have my gratitude." Keisha said, and hung on. Matthew was crestfallen. He stepped back, and fell on his backside.
"No..." He muttered.
"Oh yeah. The Ater Vox aren't really that bad once you get to know them. They just have to do what needs to be done, no matter how ugly it is. Why can't you see that? This world is filled with pain and suffering, and I'm sick of it! I want to go and fix things. Yet you people seriously think it's better to keep the old world and try and change it with hard work? Go to hell, Matthew!"
Matthew watched in horror as a massive cloud of darkness appeared next to Keisha. Once it faded, standing in it's place was a strange feminine figure, wearing an Empress mask. She was dressed to kill, in a long flowing back goat with a plunging neckline. She also wore a white and pink feather boa, and her long-fingered hands were covered with diamante white gloves. On her feet were black high heels with rubies embedded on them. The hair was particularly unusual, with blue and orange hues swirling together, as it started as a bob cut, then turned into a large ring shape with four long ponytails. On the ground in front of her was a long silver microphone in a stand.
"The Melancholic Diva, Matthew." Keisha said. "I guess I have to spell out what's going to happen next. Nihane wants to get rid of you all, and since you're here, I might as well help him. And if you try and stop me? The Diva will back me up! So you can forget about that night together now. It means nothing, just like the rest of my life!"
Matthew got up from the ground, and hesitantly took out his weapons.
"I...Keisha, stop! I don't wanna die! There has to be an easier way!" Matthew begged.
Keisha shook her head. She was surrounded by blue smoke, and Lorelei appeared. However, something bizarre happened - even more bizarre than the Melancholic Diva. Lorelei began to flash a bright blue, and then she threw her flute into the air. As it twirled, Lorelei's body was bathed in light, and then with a gigantic flash, she was gone. In her place was a very similar being, yet her hair was long and orange. She had colourful red and blue feathers at the sides of her head, and a short red dress and matching boots.
I am thou. Thou art I. From the sea of your soul, I am reborn. Enchanting melodies shall echo throughout your world for all of time. I am Euterpe, she who ascends from the Muses.
|Saragel Promenade|14:25 pm|
"Hey, whatever they pay you to sell ice cream in this day and age, it ain't enough." Blaine said. He took out his wallet, and took out some extra coins. "Here, go treat yourself."
"Thank you, sir!" the vendor said. "The strange part is, Ornatu Legion were supposed to be guarding this promenade today, so we could sell our stuff. Guess they all got called somewhere else. It looks pretty safe today, so go enjoy."
"We will. And please, take care." Serena said. Each of them sat down on the wall, and began to eat their ice cream. Amara was enjoying a mango flavour, and Serena was gleefully licking a raspberry swirl. Nathan had picked out a vanilla ice cream, whilst Blaine had gone for two chocolate scoops.
"Someone's greedy." Nathan said. Blaine chuckled, and began eating. Pretty soon, chocolate was all over his face. "Someone's also a messy eater."
"Hey, I had enough nagging about that from Dan. At least I could cook. Did I tell you about the time he put vanilla essence in macaroni?" Blaine said. "It was the most rancid shit I ever ate...man."
"When I was in hiding, Blaine made me dinner quite a lot. I was scared, but...eating those meals really calmed me down." Serena said. "They were better than anything my mom made. I really liked that beef stroganoff you made. That was the best."
"Hey...glad you liked it." Blaine said. "Those were tough times. If my cover was blown, Nihane and his buddies would find new meanings for cruel and unusual punishment. So it was pretty hard to cook big meals and take them to that Cathedral...but it was all worth it."
"Seems sort of strange that we're just chilling outdoors eating ice cream, doesn't it?" Amara said. "It's like Nihane and his buddies don't even want to capture us anymore."
"Perhaps they've grown complacent due to the Divine Sparks." Nathan said. "Even without our 'help', four of them have happened this year. So in a way, we should we grateful."
"Oh fuck - look over there!" Blaine said, pointing in the distance. Carlos Nadal was at the promenade. He saw the group, and sighed. He casually walked over to them, without a hint of animosity.
"I see all of you are well." he said. Everyone looked at each other, confused. "You're quite lucky my peers aren't with me. They're more eager for confrontation than I am. Which when you consider my time as a boxer in Barcelona, is ironic."
"Um...did you just come here to tell us about your younger days?" Serena said. "Cause we don't really wanna know!"
Carlos shook his head, and laughed slightly. "Believe it or not, I had time to take a stroll. Since all of you are trying to enjoy yourselves, and my being here is disrupting that...I shall go elsewhere. That being said, there is news I should inform you of. My friends planned to surprise you, but that felt unfair, given the circumstances."
"Quit yapping and tell us!" Blaine said. "This better be good."
"...Keisha Vivaldi is now a Last Soldier."
Everyone gulped. This was not the news they had been expecting. The plan Aimee had in mind was to travel to Inanis when the Museum area had stabilised, then search for Keisha. Yet now it was too late.
"I apologise. This news must come as a shock. Indeed, I was surprised by the sheer vitriol she spouted about your team. She has no intention of returning to the rebels at all, it would seem. Her goal is now to aid us with the Eternal Road."
No one knew what to say. They just sat there, trying to take in the news. Carlos seemed to know this, as he quickly turned around and left. Even with him gone, they still couldn't say a word.
"...We've got to tell Aimee!" Serena said. "And fast!"
"You're right. We have to let everyone know - especially Matthew!" Amara said.
"Oh man...if he finds out, he'll go apeshit!" Blaine said, panicking.
Everyone threw away their ice cream, no longer hungry, and dashed off. The vendor, aghast, slowly got up to clean up the mess.
"Some things never change, huh?"
|Saragel Soccer Stadium|14:26 pm|
"Oh my god!" Karl screamed. The stadium had just come into view, and his wail of horror rang throughout the area. He raced towards the stadium, whilst the others watched in shock.
"...After him!" Aimee said.
The group finally caught up with him. Karl was now up close, and saw the ruined stadium. Compared to the glorious venue he had performed in repeatedly throughout his career, it was now a shadow of it's former self. He stomped the ground, whilst Aimee yelped.
"Karl, get a hold of yourself!" Serena begged.
"How can I?!" Karl shouted. "Look at it! Look at it! It's a wreck! The biggest stadium I've ever been in...I worked so hard to get a chance to play there, not just watch! And now look at it! Why?"
He fell to his knees slammed the ground angrily. It might have been her imagination, but Amara almost felt like the ground beneath her shook. No one quite knew what to say. Then Zao stepped over, and knelt beside him.
"Karl..." he said. "It's because of things like these. That's why we fight against Aeternus. We want to have our city back. So if you wanna do something about it, get up! Get in that stadium!"
"Get inside...?" Karl said. "Oh...this 'presence'?" He got back on his feet, and upon everyone's shocked faces, he scratched his hair, cheeks red. "I kinda...have special feelings for this place. It's been part of my life since I was a kid, you know."
"Remind me never to take Amara to the art museum here!" Blaine said, chuckling.
"That's not funny, Blaine. First of all, you know very well what happened last time we were at a museum. Secondly, you reacted similarly when you discovered what became of Kanaloa." Nathan said.
"You think I'd forget?" Blaine said, frowning. "The enemy's headquarters are built over my old neighbourhood! It's not easy getting to sleep with that on my mind, you know."
"Enough." Aimee said. "We're going in. We haven't been back here since we met Keisha for the first time..."
"Not exactly filled with happy memories, then." Serena surmised.
Reluctantly, the group went inside. Karl was disgusted upon the degraded condition of the interior - in fact, he almost threw up. Yet he soldiered on. Throughout their walk to the pitch, some strong Shadows attempted to ambush them. While they were strong, and vast in numbers, the team managed to slaughter almost all of them.
"Mighty Braver!" Karl roared, as Alexander sliced one of the Mayas in half. He then targeted the Relic behind him, whilst Amara eliminated a Butterfly with Tefnut's Raze.
"You're so strong!" Aimee said. "I mean, you all are. But Karl's improved a lot! Come on, hurry up to the pitch. I have a feeling our foe is waiting there. Let's beat up!"
"Right!" Karl said. He and Aimee ran ahead, whilst Zao sighed.
"We really should have told them." Nathan said. "What are they going to think when they see what's become of you?"
"I don't know!" Zao snapped. "But...dammit!" He ran ahead, weapon in hand.
"Amara, don't just stand there! Follow him!" Serena ordered. Amara nodded, and soon, everyone was on the pitch.
"It's even worse here..." Karl said, aghast at the field. "How could they let things get this bad? And - who's that?"
Lying on the field were four Ornatu Legion soldiers. Amara didn't recognise them at first, but the one nearest her was...
"Juan!" she exclaimed. "Juan...he's part of the Legion too..."
"The Juan from your work?" Serena asked. "...Hold on, let me check his pulse."
There was an uncomfortable silence, as Serena took his wrist. She sadly shook her head. Juan was gone.
"I'm sorry, Amara..." Karl said. "Were you and Juan close?"
"We're just friends, but I always enjoy talking to him. He even wanted the whole team to go to Egypt one day next year, so everyone could learn about where I came from." Amara said. "He was a good man...why did he have to end up this way?"
"There's someone else over there!" Nathan shouted. "Oh no...it really is-"
"Zao?" Aimee said, stunned. Clad in a blue version of the Ornatu Legion uniform, Zao had arrived on the pitch. His face was still completely vacant, his eyes utterly hollow.
"That's Zao, alright!" Karl said. "...What's wrong with him?"
"I..." Zao mumbled. "I can't do this!"
"Hey! Get back here!" Amara hollered. Alas, Zao had already began running, tail between his legs.
"What the hell is going on?" Karl demanded. "This is the Zao of this world, right? ...You knew about this, didn't you?"
"Right..." Nathan said. He raised his staff, and the others took their weapons. "He's not like our Zao. He's become nothing but a killing machine."
Other Zao wordlessly summoned Doppelganger, without a single facial muscle moving. He didn't even blink as his Persona focused on Serena, and turned into Artemis.
"It's just like last time!" Serena said. "Artemis, come on! Lunar Scope!"
Artemis flung her bow into the air, and moonlight shone on it. The bow was now a luminous, magnificent weapon, with scopes and many arrows loaded into it. Artemis took aim, and fired. A hail of sharp, bright arrows fell upon Other Zao, and despite their flashes as they collided with his body, he uttered no cries of pain.
Doppelganger-Artemis, in response, used Diarama on Other Zao. Serena yelled in frustration, and rushed at him with her whip. He dodged, and slashed her with his glaive.
"Do we really have to fight him?!" Karl exclaimed. "Fine! I'm sorry, Zao!" He took up a southpaw stance, and jabbed at Other Zao. Despite the force of his punches, Other Zao was mostly unaffected.
"What is up with this? Does nothing hurt him?" Aimee asked.
"Doesn't look like it. Just keep attacking!" Amara said. "Force Sabre!" Hathor soon slashed Other Zao, sending him flying onto the ground. He got up from the grass, however, and Doppelganger soon changed for. It was now Hathor. Soon, Aimee was engulfed by the scorching flames of Tefnut's Raze.
"Argh!" Aimee screamed. "Zao, why are you doing this? Don't you remember me? It's Aimee! Karl's sister! Please, snap out of it!"
Karl, enraged, summoned Alexander. He amplified himself with Hero's Steel, which seemed to do the same as Tarukaja. Then, he channelled his power.
"Shining Blade!"
True to the skill's name, Alexander's sword shone bright. Then, he slashed, and Other Zao was starting to seem weak. While his face remained as still as ever, he seemed to be becoming sluggish. Doppelganger soon took a new form - Alexander's.
"Oh, not mine as well!" Karl said. Before long, Other Zao had used Hero's Steel for himself. Then it was his time to strike. Mighty Braver hit Blaine, who yelled in agony.
"This Zao needs to be taught some manners..." Blaine said, angry. "Tlaloc, you know what to do! Stormy Ascent!"
Fierce thunder struck, flashing throughout the entire sky. The awesome lightning hit Other Zao, yet he barely even flinched. Even so, his body was looking worse for wear. Doppelganger switched forms yet again, to Tlaloc.
Without warning, Doppelganger as Tlaloc cast Stormy Ascent - and this time, the entire team felt the brunt of massive lightning. Serena was completely struck down, her body sparking. The others, even Blaine, looked peaky.
"Mediarama!" Aimee hurriedly cried out. Soothing rays of light entered everyone's bodies, and their wounds were healed. Yet Doppelganger soon switched forms yet again - now it had become Irene. To everyone's horror, Other Zao had been healed as well.
"This seems to be all his Persona can do." Nathan said. "Mór Gaoth!"
Setanta hurled Other Zao into the air, and a cyclone manifested around him. Blades of supersonic wind slashed him, each echoing with supreme power, and then Setanta sent Other Zao flying down again.
However, this opponent was truly implacable. He ran at Nathan, slashing him in a wild frenzy, and both men began swinging at each other. Neither one could land a hit. Serena attempted to strike him with her whip, but missed. Blaine fired some shots, but neither of them hit.
"Oh great, not again!" Amara complained. Doppelganger was now Setanta. There seemed to be no Persona it couldn't mimic. "Now what - argh!"
To her horror, she was grabbed by this dark imitation, and flung into the air. She became the target of Mór Gaoth - and it was just as painful as it looked. She screeched, as every blade of air slashed her. Without Hathor's protection, she would be dead for sure. Then she came crashing down - into Karl's arms.
"Karl...?" Amara said, weary.
"Sorry. I just kind of ran to you without thinking..." Karl said. He let her down, and his face went red. "Serena, could you..."
"Of course! Diarama!" Serena commanded. In a few seconds, Amara felt as good as new. She turned to Other Zao, and glared at him. Now it was time to make this creature pay. He may have the same face as her lover, but not the same heart.
"Agidyne!"
Burning flames hit him, and he actually stumbled backwards. His face refused to convey any pain, however. Doppelganger changed form again - and now was Hathor.
"Come on, hurry up and beat him!" Karl said. "Then we can have some answers!"
|Opera House|14:30 pm|
Keisha was aggravated. She stomped the ground so hard, even the Melancholic Diva looked at her in surprise.
"Keisha..." Matthew said. It felt like every part of him was on fire. Keisha was far more brutal than he had seen.
"How many times do I have to say it? I am not going to go back to your team! Nor am I going to fall in love with you! I saw what I really was for you - an ego boost!" Keisha said. "Matthew, you're going to be the first! Just remember, if you had actually been smart, you might have won."
Euterpe began to play her melody. This was bound to be another devastating blow. If Matthew didn't act, he might die. Yet how could he bring himself to turn his blade on a former friend?
Matthew saw massive amounts of energy gathering around Keisha and Euterpe, and gasped. This was definitely not going to be a slap on the wrist. He shut his eyes, and waited. Soon, he would be finished - then Euterpe would have to deal with Dan.
"Holy shit - Matthew, NO!"
Matthew opened his eyes. Dan had just entered the stage, and he was taking in the scene in full horror. Instantly, he began charging ahead, panting for breath. Yet it was too late - the blast of Keisha's Monodrama emerged.
"Ugh..." Matthew groaned, as he found himself on the floor. Dan was on his knees, shaking his brother's body. His body still hurt all over. Then it hit him. The power of Monodrama seemed rather weak - had he actually been struck with it? He looked over, and saw he was lying a few feet away from where he was. And someone else was in that position - Roger.
"So...you really are back...and stronger than before." Roger said, glaring at Keisha. "You wanna kill somebody, kill me! But why the hell are you attacking Matthew? He hasn't done half the things I have!"
"You don't get to lecture me!" Keisha shouted. "Cause of what you did, this world has nothing left for me! And the rebel 'friends' aren't enough to fill any void in my heart! Nothing is! So you see? I have to start over! With no one to tear away anything from me!"
"You shut your fucking mouth!" Dan shouted, his veins bulging. "Matthew could have died thanks to you! So you and your ugly back up singer are dead, do you hear me?!" He took his rifle, and began firing with reckless abandon. Keisha nimbly avoided the shots, but the Diva suffered some heavy damage. She shrieked, and distortion could be heard from her microphone.
"Why did you have to get involved?!" Keisha screamed. "You stupid, ugly old man! Get the hell out of my way!"
"That's...enough, Keisha! Don't insult my brother in front of me!" Matthew cried. Suddenly, he felt an energy boost. Someone had just used Diarama on him. He turned around, and standing there with Raphael above him was Richard.
"You too?!" Keisha said. "Then let me make this clear for all of you. I'm never going to be part of your stupid team again! I can't stand it anymore! How can you pass up on the opportunity to have a perfect world?"
"There's no such thing, Keisha!" Richard said. "But we don't want to lose our world! If you're really going to try and fight us, we'll fight back!"
"Oh yeah? Then just try it, all of you!" Keisha said. "Diva! Heal me, right now!"
The Melancholic Diva began to sing, and now it was Keisha's turn to be healed. Matthew glared at the Diva...it felt easier to fight it than Keisha. He would have to focus on it, to avoid having to hurt her. Even if she wasn't quite as reluctant to harm him.
"Now I'll play you a fan favourite! Aria Di Sorbetto!" Her signature move appeared yet again, as it struck Richard. She quickly rushed at Matthew, trying to swing her weapons at him, but he blocked. "Oh, now you're fighting back?"
"I don't have a choice! Not if you won't do the right thing and stop! Hyper Strike!" Matthew bellowed. Acolnahuacatl appeared, this time at full strength. He laid into Keisha with his claws quite a few times, then finished with a powerful slash.
"Ziodyne!" Dan cried. Tezcatlipoca blasted an angered Keisha, and in return, he was hit by Monodrama. The energy generated by this move also amplified Keisha, and she grinned.
Richard eyed the Diva, who was currently watching the fight from afar. He pondered for a minute, but when he saw Keisha charging at him, he gulped. He quickly swung his spear, trying to block her strikes, and mostly succeeding. He rolled away, and swiftly summoned Raphael.
"Ultraviolet Whirlwind!"
Several small miniature tornadoes appeared around the Melancholic Diva, who looked up in alarm. Each one was a different colour - White, Blue, Red and Green. The latter was much brighter than the others, and soon sucked in the other three. Now a multicoloured mighty tornado, it collided with the Diva, and she shrieked in pain as the winds tore into her.
"Goddamit!" Keisha said. She hurriedly used Vibrato on him, and turned to Roger. "You think you can win? I'm not like Nick and Brad! Now I have a chance to win! Tessitura!"
Euterpe played another tune, a rather upbeat one that clashed with the atmosphere. Now, Keisha's body was shrouded with a vibrant purple aura, and immediately she began ravaging Roger with her weapons. Each swing seemed to bring her greater pleasure. Every single shred of hatred she had reserved for him, she could finally unleash, and bring him closer to death.
"Argh!" Keisha screamed. She turned around in horror, and glared at Dan. He had just fired his rifle at her, and was glaring at her with equal hate.
"You really think killing him is gonna make you feel any better?" Dan asked. "Cause all it's doing is making you another murderer! Even if Roger is to blame for what happened to your friends, I'm not gonna let you do the same to him!"
"Dan..." Roger said. "Huh?" Healing power had entered his body, and Richard gave him a thumbs up. "Thanks, you two. Keisha, I'm sorry, but I'm not ready to die yet! Aquadyne!"
"Urgh!" Keisha screamed. The wave of water crashed into her, and she lost her balance. The Diva, however, was having none of this. Singing a rather dissonant song, she gathered divine power, and used it to heal Keisha fully.
"Ha! Forgot about my friend here, didn't ya?" Keisha said. "You'll never beat me now!"
"Dammit!" Dan shouted. "What do we do, guys?"
Richard looked at him in disbelief. "What, don't tell me you already forgot? Kyle told us about these Shadows already! This one does nothing but heal other Shadows! Why do you think I was trying to kill her?"
"Wow, Richard's smarter than he looks. Too bad! By the time you kill her, I'll have wiped the floor with all of you!" Keisha boasted. She slashed furiously at Matthew, only for him to attack with even greater velocity. Sounds of clanging metal echoed throughout the theatre, whilst Dan, Roger and Richard turned towards the giant singing Shadow.
"It feels like such a waste to kill a lady in a pretty dress." Dan said, readying his rifle. "C'mon, we can win this!"
"Magarula!" Matthew cried. Winds hit both women, yet they seemed fairly unaffected. "What?"
Keisha chuckled, and violently slashed at Matthew. She then kicked him to the ground, and whilst Euterpe pummelled him with Vibrato, she turned to Richard. Soon, they began to clash, whilst Raphael floated overhead.
"Hamaon!" Richard cried. The cards of light appeared around Keisha, and to her shock, they took effect. Keisha collapsed - alas, the Diva took notice. Within seconds, she began singing, and no amount of ammo from Dan or Aquadynes from Roger could mute her melody. Samarecarm soon brought Keisha back, and she was madder than before.
"Can't believe that worked...since when were you any good?" Keisha said. "You're still not enough to face me! Eat this!"
The battle continued, as she brandished her swords.
|Saragel Soccer Stadium|14:46 pm|
No matter how hard they struck him, the other Zao did not give up. Doppelganger had switched between all of their Personae continuously, and used Artemis and Irene to heal himself. Suddenly, he looked up at the stands. Someone was there...
"Pierre!" Aimee cried. "What are you doing here?"
"Isn't it obvious? I'm here to pick up our little test subject. SD01, as I like to call him. Or do you prefer 'Zao Yuria'?" Pierre said, smugly.
"No..." Serena said. "Then it really is him..."
"Oh, speak of the devil. The cowardly little lion came back." Pierre said. Zao had returned, his face pale. "Shall I fill you in, before I return to HQ?"
"You don't exactly look like you care about our permission." Serena said, glaring.
"Correct. You're sharper than your sister." Pierre said. "Archibald is a rather interesting scientist. If you put an idea into his head, he will be very thorough in it's execution. That idea was to eliminate the possibility of an Ornatu Legion soldier rejecting his Persona, and succumbing to it. So Archibald began research."
"Research...?" Amara said.
"Intensive research. The total disk space totals over 4 GB. Which is a lot, but you people probably knew that. He realised that no matter how many experimental medications you administer, the possibility of rejection will always remain. So he came up with something good. If you have a person who can't get a normal Persona, then why keep their personality? Why not just get rid of it entirely?"
"You've got to be joking!" Aimee said. "Even for you monsters, that's horrible!"
"Aren't you a judgmental mademoiselle?" Pierre said. "We didn't pick just anybody, of course. Our resources, believe it or not, are limited. We can't risk getting rid of 500 soldiers for the sake of a project that might not even work out. So we looked throughout our ranks, and found someone appropriate. His family was already dead, and he had spoken of his dissatisfaction of having such a lowly position. So Archibald invited him to the lab."
"And that was Zao?" Karl asked.
"He wasn't the first, actually." Pierre said. "Our first specimen was Adrian Gale. Your friends might remember what happened to him, but I suspect you don't have a clue. I'm sure you can have a fun time reminiscing over poor Adrian's death later."
"So...Adrian died for the sake of research..." Nathan said, stunned. "That's terrible..."
"Melodramatic, are we?" Pierre said. He chuckled for a while, and clenched his fist. "It was a glorious moment! It proved that Archibald could create even stronger soldiers than we thought possible! Yet soon after we finalised Adrian's White Rider, we realised we needed a better subject. A rather jovial fool, who fancied himself as everyone's ami. At the time, Josephine had finished a rather intricate Persona, yet no normal soldier could utilise it. That was Doppelganger, the master of mimicry."
"So Zao got turned into this freak!" Karl shouted. "You fucking bastard! How can you stand there and talk like this is some kind of achievement? My friend...my very best friend...transformed into your twisted prototype?"
Pierre sighed, and swept his hair. "You simpleminded, self-righteous fool. Zao had no objections. He wanted to do anything to become stronger. Anything for good old grandpa Deo. When we first begun, we realised something incredible. Zao had the potential for a Persona - just like Amara and Nathan, who had escaped from our clutches quite some time ago. Archibald was apprehensive at first, but I encouraged him to go ahead. After all, it might allow for even greater power after the transformation was completed."
"Then how did he end up in bandages in the Supply Complex?" Aimee asked.
"Upon the completed transformation, Zao's body was incredibly injured. He was still capable of using Doppelganger, yet had no strength to move at all. His entire body needed to be shielded - so it could reform properly. And the environment of our HQ seemed to be causing him pain. So we found somewhere that had a very minimal concentration of Shadows - the Supply Complex in Legarte." Pierre said. "Zao, you can go back now. This was a fun test of your abilities. You beat those four single-handedly, so you deserve a rest."
Other Zao completely vanished, and Pierre laughed in a malevolent uproar.
"This has to be the worst thing you've ever done! There's nothing left of the original Zao in him, is there?!" Amara screamed.
"Perhaps. Perhaps not. Why not try pitting him against his counterpart?" Pierre said, with a sly grin. "I'd love to see that. Zao being brave enough to try it. But that might be too hard to bear, wouldn't it? After all, it's difficult to face yourself. You're not like your girlfriend, or your friends. You just have them do the fighting, hoping everything will blow over? You're pathetic!"
Zao trembled, and said nothing. He couldn't look at anyone - not even Pierre, who was looking very pleased at this reaction.
"I hope you all found that scintillating!" Pierre said. "Au revoir. It shall be a short while until we all meet again, I'm sure. Tell Kyle I said 'bonjour', will you?"
He vanished into darkness, leaving nothing but the echo of his cruel laugh.
"Zao, what the hell?!" Karl shouted. "Why in god's name did you not tell us this sooner?"
"You should have said something!" Aimee said. "Zao, look at me! This is serious!"
"Don't you think I know that? Do you see me laughing?" Zao said, tearfully. "I didn't want anyone to know! I could have handled it...but...how can I fight myself like that?!"
"Zao, it's alright. You're not the only one. I couldn't handle the truth, either." Blaine said. "I didn't like knowing what I was up to in this universe. But I survived. And you will too."
"I..." Zao mumbled. "I'm so sorry...I know I should have spoken up, but...Aimee was so hopeful about finding me in this place! How could I tell her I was a freak who couldn't even smile for her? I...I'm sorry!"
The tears came more and more, and he sobbed, head in his hands. Amara felt her heart sink - to see Zao reduced to tears felt like the world tearing itself to pieces. Someone like Zao, who always gave everybody he met a smile, reduce to this.
The others started to leave, quietly. Soon, she and Zao were alone, as he continued to sob. She couldn't handle it anymore. She went up close to him, and soon she had him wrapped in her arms.
"A-Amara...it's all my fault..."
"No, it's not. It's all Aeternus' fault. We'll go take them down. We might even be able to get your other self back to normal!" Amara said. "I'll find out for sure! All of us will work together to make it happen!"
"...You never stop hoping for the best, do you?"
"Never. You are the best, after all."
She let go, and they walked off the pitch, hand in hand.
|Terpischore Opera House|14:42 pm|
Dan had just unleashed his Blood Blitz on the Diva, who was screeching in pain. Yet soon was he, as he was blindsided by another Monodrama.
"Idiot!" Keisha laughed. She began dodging some swings from Richard, and cruelly laughed as she hit Roger right across the face.
"Whoa!" Richard said. "...You're not the Keisha we used to know. I don't think I find you as attractive anymore. Never did like crazy evil chicks. Alastair might be in luck, though."
"You moron! Always joking around, even in times like these? Are you stupid or something?!" Keisha screamed. "Vibrato!"
Powerful bolts of lighting pierced Richard's body, and he doubled over in pain. The four men were starting to look rather peaky, whilst Keisha remained in top physical shape. She turned to Matthew, and gave him a dirty look.
"I'm fed up with this! You're all fools!" Keisha said. "Now, Aria Di -"
"No way!" Richard shouted. "Oh heavenly paradise, please lend my true friends eternal sanctuary! Free them from peril, and deliver us to victory!" Raphael emerged, and with a triumphant smile, aimed his staff at the ground. The entire area became filled with light, and choir sounds could be heard from all over. Then the ground beneath them changed to a glorious garden, of pure greenery. The sky was a bright blue, with dazzling sunlight shining overhead. Keisha stared in amazement - whilst the men started to slowly recover. In fact, they felt quite a boost.
"Garden of Healing!"
Keisha was flabbergasted. Alas, this meant she was wide open - and Dan & Roger took advantage. Whilst the former shot several times, the latter used Kanaloa to unleash Laguna Rush. Keisha fell to the ground, crying in pain.
Expectantly, the Diva began to cast Diarahan - but before she could, Matthew hit her repeatedly with his knives. He had grown so proficient with them, they felt like extensions of his body. She howled in pain, but he ignored it. He had to do this, or they would never have a chance to subdue Keisha. However, he was complacent - Keisha had quickly used Monodrama, and ran away before Richard could stab her. She lunged at Roger again, but this time he was not about to let her tear him to pieces. Instead, he swung at her, and she stared at him with disgust.
"This must be bringing back memories, right?" she said, furious.
"Bad ones. And today's filled with plenty more already." Roger said. "I wish I didn't have to do this, but...here we go!" Kanaloa faithfully performed his Kraken Lance manoeuvre, and Keisha was doubled over in pain. "Guys! Now's our chance! Let's get that Diva with everything we've got!"
"Alrighty! Never done one of these without the guys before. This should be good!" Richard said.
Raphael began, and sent forth a powerful whirlwind. Acolnahuacatl did the same, whilst Kanaloa unleashed a strong rainstorm. Finishing off was Tezcatlipoca's fierce thunder. The entire scene had become a massive storm, and as Keisha slowly stood up, she held on for dear life as the velocity of the wind and rain hit her.
"Storm of Kings!" Everyone shouted, as the combined strength began to overwhelm the Diva.
Once the storm subsided, she began to shake, and dropped the microphone. It disintegrated into nothingness, and soon her hair became completely undone, and began to lose it's hue. Unable to cope anymore, she fell face first onto the stage.
"No! Get up, you useless bitch!" Keisha screamed. Alas, her plea was unheeded. The Diva was no more. Her fabulous clothes and once-vivid hair faded, and so did the rest of her. "This wasn't supposed to happen!"
"What now, Keisha?" Matthew asked. "Are you going to stop now?"
She gazed into his eyes, and Matthew couldn't help but stare back. The more he stared into her eyes, he saw nothing but hate. Those were the eyes he gazed into that night, on the beach...she had life in her. Perhaps not the love he hoped for.
"You shut up!" Keisha roared. She tightly held her weapons, and leapt through the air. Yet before she could collide with Matthew, a ferocious barrage of scythe swings struck her. She collapsed to the ground, crying in pain.
"Keisha. You should know by now - you go after my brother, I go after you!" Dan shouted. She sneered at him, and leapt back up.
"That is IT!" Keisha shouted. "This performance is dragging on far too long! So I'm going to end it right now!"
Euterpe appeared, and held up her flute. It suddenly began shimmering bright gold, as immense power gathered into it. Then, a musical score appeared beneath everybody else, each one at the same brightness.
"Overture!"
Lorelei began to play, and each note she played appeared on the score. The second it did so, it immediately hurtled down the score and hit whoever was nearest. Her song was long, and dramatic. This was a torturous melody, that managed to drown out the sounds of pain. Finally, the score emitted piercing energy, sending everybody into the air.
"See that?!" Keisha barked. Matthew slowly rose to his feet, stunned. "Even without the Melancholic Diva, I'm still stronger than all of you!" Despite her words, it was clear she was nearing her limit. Using Overture had proven quite a strain on her body. A similar effect happened when Matthew used Primal Vortex to finish off the Ixion Stallion. So...if she continued to fight alone, she could be in great trouble.
"You're not going to beat us! Ever!" Matthew said. "Gale Claw!"
Keisha gasped - Acolnahuacatl pounced out of Matthew's body, and sliced her weary body three times, each time powered by the wind itself. Angry, she started to rush at him - but tripped, and dropped her weapons.
"Oww..." She winced. "My...ankle..."
"Stop!" Richard begged. "Oh god...she's sprained her ankle! Keisha, you have to stop this!"
Out of nowhere, two red auras appeared before Keisha. She gasped as the smoke disappeared, and so did the others. Nina and Josephine had arrived on the scene.
"You took your time...where were you?!" Keisha snapped.
"Keisha!" Nina screamed. "Are you alright? My goodness! Your ankle!"
"I'm...fine...I can keep fighting, you know!" Keisha barked. "Ugh...well...maybe a little..."
"Ms Vivaldi, you have to learn when to retreat. Otherwise, you'll throw your life away to these clods." Josephine said. "We were planning to surprise all of you, but it seems that won't be necessary."
"Why is Keisha with you two now?" Richard asked. "Does she really hate us that much?"
"Of course she does! She finally saw how stupid your team really is!" Nina said. "Keisha only wishes for her life to go back to her happiest days, and eliminate everything that disrupted that peace!"
"Well if you guys hadn't brought Shadows into the world, then maybe she'd still have a peaceful life. All of us would." Roger said. "Is it really worth destroying an entire planet just so you can make a better one?"
"This world was already wretched before we came into power!" Josephine said. "The outside world may not have Shadows to contend with, but there are still the corrupt! Evil cannot be banished in our current world. Only Nihane's method will save us!"
"Josephine, why are you wasting your time with these guys? Keisha needs medical attention!" Nina said. "It is your group that are the real scum here, not us! Once the last Divine Spark happens, nothing will remain of you! So enjoy your final breath."
Keisha stood up, and shot everyone nasty glares. Nina and Josephine vanished, taking Keisha with them, and the stage was quiet.
"Keisha...she really isn't coming back..." Matthew said. "Why? Why...couldn't I have stopped her?"
"She was so peppy when we first met her, but now...she's like a different person." Richard said. "Man...everyone else is going to go crazy when we tell them."
Matthew clenched his fists, and started shaking. He turned to everyone, only to see their pitiful faces. If only they weren't here. Then he wouldn't look so pathetic in front of them. How could Keisha have brought him this much pain?
"Matthew, I -"
Before Dan could finish, Matthew flung himself at him, sobbing. Dan was quiet, but he slowly put his arms around Matthew as tight as he could.
"Matthew...don't ever think crying makes you less of a man. It's the opposite...real men aren't afraid to show their feelings...even in front of their big brothers." he said, as Matthew continued to sob.
Richard and Roger stood there, unsure what to do. The only sounds were Matthew's tears. Then, Matthew finally let go, and as he was about to wipe his eyes, Dan did so instead, with a reassuring smile.
"I'm sorry. This situation is of my own making." Roger said. "Archibald found me earlier and told me about Keisha. And..."
"Roger, were you here to change her mind?" Richard asked.
"Perhaps. Of course, she wouldn't listen to me. Maybe if she got a chance to kill me, that would have pacified her. I didn't know what to do, but I didn't want you all to go through this." Roger said. "I should get going. I've caused all of you enough stress already."
"Roger..." Matthew said. "Um...you saved my life back there...so..."
Roger smiled weakly, and shook his head.
"We were comrades once. I couldn't let you die, especially at her hands. And Dan probably would have saved you, anyway. Dan, keep an eye on your brother. He needs you more than ever. Richard, if you ever have any doubts about yourself, don't think you're the only one. You'll do fine, I know it."
He departed the Opera House, and the three of them slowly left as well.