Persona: Duality

by Sraosha

Amara Furaha is an aspiring artist living in the idyllic metropolis of New Motus City. One day, she is stranded in another world, and is attacked by unholy creatures - the Shadows. She, along with many others, will begin a journey to eliminate them and put a stop to the organisation that has jeopardised the safety of her beloved city. Yet, she must also try to live a normal life.

75. Blue Skies

AN: Well, this is the 75th chapter. It's been a lot of fun, and a lot of work to get this far. Yet the story STILL isn't over! But we're getting closer now. :P Thanks once again to everybody. I'll be on holiday soon for two weeks, as I said previously, so you'll have to wait a while to see the start of Arc 8. Read and review, and I hope you enjoy!

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Chapter 75: Blue Skies

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|Interitus Legion Compound - Outside NA-Wahman Control Room|20:34 pm|

"I know we can win, everyone! Agidyne!" Amara shouted. Nina screamed in terror as the flames surged through her body. She collapsed, and Carlos had to dash to get her up - avoiding Karl's punches.

"Artemis!" Serena cried. Josephine shot at her, but Blaine fired back. After countless shots since June, Blaine had grown proficient with his firing arm. Somehow, he was able to handle a foe with guns akimbo. "Help us! Tranquil Sea!"

The celestial Artemis came to her aid, and the Ater Vox were struck by fierce waters. Serena cheered, but was swiftly slashed by Pierre's twin swords.

"Fools!" He said, angrily. "Loki!" Serena prepared to roll out of the way, but he had his attention now on Karl. "Tarunda!"

"What the -" Karl gasped. Thanks to that move, his Hero's Steel couldn't give him the strength it usually did. "You really are a dick, you know that?"

"Kyle did say I should cut out the illusions. Good advice from a cripple - ouch!" Pierre's taunt was interrupted by a whip attack to the groin. "Sensitive, aren't you?" He croaked.

"About as sensitive as those, it would seem." Nina said. She then smiled wickedly, and raised her sickles. "Enough. I know exactly what to do. That girl of fire needs to cool down." Amara panicked - this could not be good. "Hel! Permafrost!"

Amara's body began to shiver, then once the ice concentrated, she felt every inch of her body become as cold as the winter snow. Now she was trapped in a block of ice, unable to budge an inch.

Help! It's like the dead of winter here!

"Shit!" Karl shouted. "Amara, hold on! Hero's Steel!" He hastily used the move, and Pierre, still in agony from the attack to his privates, managed a weak laugh. Yet Karl paid no attention - his focus was on punching the ice, as fast as he could, yet only making small cracks.

"The hell?" Blaine asked. "I've never seen her use that before!"

"Evidently, you haven't seen a lot of things. Such an uncultured man." Carlos said. Blaine glowered at him, but he just shrugged, and summoned Venti. "Matarukaja." All five of the Ater Vox received the increase in strength - and Karl was hit heavily with Carlos' punches.

"Oh yeah?" Karl said, wincing. He stared apologetically at Amara, and turned to his nemesis. "You look like you've got a good punch. Here's another!" He landed a hit squarely on Carlos' jaw, and smirked. Carlos, however, hit him in the stomach, and the two soon began swaying from each other.

"Damn..." Blaine said. He saw Archibald's glove shots coming at him, and hurriedly fired a few shots. "Back off, asshole!"

"Belissimo, Carlos!" Josephine said. She shot at Nathan, only to be sent flying back with a mighty Garudyne.

"Damn you, Josephine! Damn you to hell!" Nathan roared, seething with anger. Archibald, amused, blasted him with Ziodyne, and hit him with his glove shots again.

"How impolite." She turned her attention to Blaine, and winked. "Hmm...you're not as putrid as I once thought. Yes, pure masculinity radiates within you. Perhaps Lucy is right to salivate at the thought of -"

"Shut it, you self-centered Jezebel!" Blaine growled.

"Is it wise to speak to me in such a manner? I could rip you from your last breath at any moment." Josephine taunted. "Alluring Blade!"

Black love hearts span around Cybele, revolving around her swords. Then, she lunged through the air, and struck Blaine twice, each time making blasts of pink lurid smoke appear.

"Ha!" Josephine said. "Wasn't that sensational?"

"In your dreams! Tlaloc, help me out here! Punishment!"

Tlaloc stood tall, holding his hammer in front. Then, he span around multiple times, building up momentum faster and faster. Eventually, Tlaloc released the hammer, and it landed on Josephine, who collapsed to the ground in agony.

"Good work, partner." Nathan said. "Now we need to do something about Amara!"

"Right! Uh...let's try this!" Serena said. Looking fearfully at the ice, she shuddered. "Diarahan!" Within the ice, Amara felt some of her vitality come back - only for it to be drained again by the sheer cold. She could only watch as Pierre's infernal Agidyne struck her.

"Haha!" Pierre said. "Only Nina can make that ice, and only she can break it!"

"I am a master of my craft, after all." Nina said, with a sinister lilt to her voice. "Chilling Massacre!" Amara gasped - Hel came straight towards her, and slashed through the ice with vicious, brutal strikes. She was freed from her prison, but her body was still shivering...

She was suddenly lifted up - by Karl. Gently, he got her back to her feet, and punched Nina in the face, then dodged Carlos' hits.

"Karl...are you alright?" Amara asked.

"I'll be alright. You just try and warm up!" Karl replied. "Marakukaja!" The team received a very welcome boon to their defence, and Carlos was furious. He landed a punch on Karl, but ended up getting a bullet in the back from Blaine.

"How cowardly, resorting to firearms." Carlos said. Ironically, Josephine had just shot Serena, and gave him a dirty look. "Not you, Josephine. Here! Airborne Melee!"

Venti was summoned, and clenched his fists very tightly. Soon, he began pounding Blaine, each punch sending zephyrs at him as well. Carlos watched Blaine's beaten body collapse, and smiled.

"Mediarama!" Josephine quickly healed her comrades, much to the aggravation of their enemies. "Oh, what's the matter? Do you prefer your targets to let themselves be killed?"

"Not quite." Nathan said. "We just prefer our targets to be defeated! Liath Macha!" Gale-force winds were formed beneath Setanta, propelling him into the air. Upon his peak, he held his spear downwards, and with one swift movement, he drove it through Josephine.

"Damn!" Archibald cried. He ignored his target - Serena - and ran to Josephine's side, checking her over.

"I'll be fine! Just fight already!" Josephine grumbled.

Amara had an idea - and quickly put it into action. He began Tefnut's Raze, and the bright fires of Hathor took Archibald by surprise. As he yelled in pain, Josephine hurriedly arose and shot at Amara, but she raced forward and slashed Archibald repeatedly, her blade swinging through the flames.

"You're quite the impudent lady!" Archibald shouted. Amara gasped - she had completely let her guard down. Just as he was about to hit her, Nathan dragged her out of harm's way. "Now then, Serena, you'll recall this, won't you? Megingjard!"

"What? No -"

Yet it was too late, for the Ater Vox were now covered with high power energy barriers, courtesy of Thor's energy cannon. All of them laughed, and returned to attacking with brute force.

"Serena, what the hell is a Megan Jar? Is she hot?" Blaine asked.

"Megingjard, Blaine! It's the belt Thor wears in Norse mythology!" Serena said, exasperated. "It's like...Marakukaja AND Makarakarn! We're in big trouble!"

Blaine thought for a second. Then, he grinned.

"Alright. I know just what to do." Blaine said.

"What are you planning?" Nathan asked.

"Just watch, Nathan! Mazionga!"

Amara and the others watched in shock - as Blaine's lightning struck the energy barriers, breaking them. However, upon doing this, the lightning went right black at Blaine - and his body was being bombarded by his own thunder. With a satisfied look on his face, he fell backwards, and shut his eyes.

"No.." Serena whined. "Blaine!"

Amara stabbed at Pierre, while glancing at Blaine's unconscious body.

Thanks...but that looked painful. I'll do that next time, alright?

|B1 Corridor A|20:35 pm|

As the elevator descended, the Other Zao simply stood still, staring at his counterpart. Zao gulped. What was he going to do? Was this a trap? Were Amara and the others alright? Alas, there was nothing to do but wait until they reached the very lowest level of this den of woe.

Zao's mind tried to imagine the horrors his counterpart must have been through. To live in a dangerous world, where he knew nothing of Karl or Aimee, and never known Amara. And to fight in the Ornatu Legion, where one was only slightly above worthless to Aeternus. Even so, that wouldn't have been so terrible.

However, the true horror of the situation was the project that turned him into the mindless monster that stood before him. Images of himself being strapped to a table, and having one part of his mind being destroyed at a time, just for the sake of research. How could they possibly have done that?

Could they really have torn all of my heart away? All his Persona can do is copy others, but he never says a word. I can't even tell if he's looking at me. I'm on my own now. Maybe I can still save him. I'll do whatever it takes!

"Hey, can't you say anything at all?" Zao asked. "You're still me in there, right? I know you can hear me!"

There was no response. The Other Zao's only signs of life was him standing up, and being only fractionally less still than a statue. Finally, the elevator reached the bottom floor. Zao looked outside, and saw the walls were darker, and greener. What was the point of this floor? To store more capsules? Sure enough, he saw some ahead.

The elevator opened, and the Other Zao escaped, running past the capsules. Zao, worried, came out as well, weapon in his hands.

"Wait! Come back!" Zao cried. When the capsules started to turn red, he gasped. "Dammit, not now! Rashnu!"

His Persona emerged, with a brighter glow than before. With some struggles, Zao and Rashnu began to eliminate the army alone.

|Outside T-Ardwahist Control Room|20:34 pm|

Seraphina, now with Sophia's power, had greater prowess over her psychic powers. With this, she had managed to quickly read the malevolent energies of both the Purified Yggdrasill and the Sentinel Vidofnir.

"Everyone! Listen to me, and listen well! These Shadows are far stronger than their debut in the Power Tunnels." She said. During that battle, Aimee had the team divide in two and take down each one separately. Now, the two were finally fighting as one. "The Purified Yggdrasill cannot be harmed by inferno nor earthquake, and the Sentinel Vidofnir cannot be felled by blizzard nor tsunami."

"So basically, Kyle shouldn't attack the Yggdrasill, and Priscilla shouldn't go after the Vidofnir?" Matthew asked. Seraphina nodded. "Awesome! Then here goes! Hunting Pride!"

Acolnahuacatl, ever the beastly Persona, pounced out of Matthew's body. Then, it ravaged the Vidofnir, slashed it with its sharp iron claws. The angry bird flew at Matthew and jabbed him with its beak.

"Ouch!" Matthew yelped. "These aren't like the seagulls in Clairdol! Rude bird..."

"Agidyne!" Hephaestus blasted the Vidofnir with intense flames, which due to Kyle's Fire Amp had grown even stronger. Priscilla glanced at the vile tree that was before it, and shuddered. The sight of a plant, moving like a beast, was a horrific one. She would end this monstrosity's existence, for the sake of her mind.

"Crystal Queen!"

Uathach concentrated heavy amounts of frost and ice around her, forming what could only be described as a giant crystal. Then, Uathach flew above the castle, and fired a pale blue light upon it - and it grew more and more, then shattered around the Yggdrasill, piercing it with fragments of hardest ice.

The Vidofnir was outraged. Having seen the fierce cold of Priscilla's magic, it felt keen to display its own powers. Thus, it performed the Spring Rhapsody - a fast moulting of its feathers, which fell to the ground and turned into jets of fierce water. This was accompanied by the Autumn Nocturne, where the Yggdrasill made its mighty leaves fall, yet upon their descent they were inflamed, and burned all they came in contact with.

"What the - shit!" Dan yelped. "We don't have a healer, do we?"

"Seraphina tried to learn Mediarama, but she wasn't very good at it..." Kyle said. "Don't worry about that! Just attack your way!"

Dan grinned. "My way, eh? Then let's do this! Guillotine Fall!"

Tezcatlipoca began to attack, with a savagery not unlike his 'brother' Acolnahuacatl. He swung his scythe like the pendulum of a clock, and each time it seemed to draw blood, which became a pool of death beneath the victim.

"Wow." Kyle said. "Your way is awesome."

"Isn't it?" Dan said. "Matthew, hurry!"

"Gotcha! Gale Claw!" Matthew leapt into action, as did his Persona. The claw attacks hurt the Vidofnir, making it squawk in a bitter rage.

"Stellar Vision!" Seraphina cried. The astral attack wreaked utter havoc upon the Shadows, and she became smug at her own power. "Suffer! Your lives are mine!"

"Sheesh. We're all being badass tonight." Kyle said. "Then check this out! Crushing Eagle!" Hephaestus threw a rock in the sky, and within the space of two seconds, carved it into an eagle. He then sent it into the Yggdrasill, and its impact made it break into many pieces. "Shame, it would have looked nice in the secret base. Better than Dan's posters."

"I keep telling you, those are tastefully done!" Dan protested.

The Purified Yggdrasill was not about to let itself be cut down. In its rage, the roots pierced through the floor, and swung around in a deadly frenzy - bashing into everyone around. Right after this, the Vidofnir flapped its wings, creating miniature gusts of wind - and they were so fierce, everyone felt the air being knocked out of them.

"No! I will never let you win!" Priscilla said angrily. "You atrocious, overgrown pest! And you, feathered vermin! We will not be stopped here! Bufudyne!"

Her icy assault continued, with Uathach striking the Yggdrasill with her cold sorcery. This seemed effective, and by now its bark did seem rather scratched. Yet the two Shadows were not finished. The Vidofnir performed an absolutely devastating Magarudyne, far worse than the previous aerial assault. Then came the Yggdrasill's Mamagnadyne, an attack of the earth that beat the entire team senseless.

"Urgh..." Priscilla moaned. "My body...aches..."

"Oh shit...Priscilla honey, stay strong!" Dan said. "It ain't over yet! Ziodyne!" The electrocution commenced, as lightning fell from the 'sky' and shocked the Vidofnir. Dan then, with careful precision, shot at the bird with his rifle. "Come on, we gotta win this! So we can put a stop to the Interitus Legion!"

|Interitus Legion Compound - B1 Corridor B|20:43 pm|

Rashnu's powers seemed limitless tonight. He was slaying the remaining Interitus Legion soldiers with Mass Destruction, amongst other attacks. As he fought, Zao thought on Amara. She had too often held him in her arms, as he sobbed. Now, he wasn't going to cry.

"Amara! I'll be just fine!" He said aloud. "We'll stop the Eternal Road together! Just wait for me, okay?"

The possibility that she was in danger was the greatest fear he had ever known. Yet he had his own battle up ahead - one where he would finally prove his worth to the rebellion. Discovering his Persona had been a miracle, yet once he learned of his limitations, resentment had almost eaten all joy in his heart.

I know you'll be safe, Amara. I'll do my best, so you better do the same! Here I go!

He sped down the corridor, further and further. Once again, her fought his way through the Interitus Legion. Tomas most likely would never have imagined they would be helpless before a single warrior...

|Legarte Aeternus Supply Centre|20:44 pm|

"Aria Di Sorbetto!"

Seeing Euterpe instead of Lorelei was still hard for Richard to get used to. However, he was just glad the melodic ice was hurting the Musha, not himself.

"Dammit!" He suddenly cried. A Shadow that seemed to be a pair of dice was floating in the air. If they were left alone, they could explode with a Last Resort - and the Holy Cross would be in big trouble.

"DIE!"

"Richard, we know what they are." Bianca said, shaking her head. However, she gasped in shock - Raphael was tearing the Shadow to pieces, with an Ultraviolet Whirlwind. "I was kidding! Relax!"

Keisha noticed something behind a broken ice cream machine. Rolling away from a Cupid's arrow, she got round - and saw a shaking young boy, only about twelve years old.

"What are you still doing here?!" Keisha shouted. "This place is dangerous! We shut this place down for a reason."

"I...wanted to get medicine for my dad...so he'd feel better..." The boy said, shaking. "Am I in trouble?"

Keisha sighed. "Sort of. That's why we're here - to get rid of the trouble. Guys!" She shouted, looking to the Holy Cross. "There are still people here! Please, try and get them to escape!" She grabbed the boy's hand, and ran outside, avoiding a particularly nasty looking Couple.

"Those two have no class." Bianca said. "Not quite like you and me."

"...Huh?" Kazuya asked, face red. "Do you mean...me?"

"Who else?" Bianca said, grinning. "Let's take them down together!"

"...Right." Kazuya said. "Then go! Uriel!"

Uriel and Gabriel held hands, as did their users. In the opposite hands were their weapons, which they held aloft. They clinked them together, creating a bright sparkle of red and blue.

"Sacred Knight!"

The Angels swung their weapons down together in perfect sync. Not only were the strikes heavy and sharp, but there was an eruption of both fire and water, creating a bizarre steam effect - that shone with a heavenly light. With that, the Couple were destroyed.

"You owe me twenty dollars, Richard." Alastair said, smugly.

"What?!" Bianca asked.

"Uh...we had a bet on whether you two would hook up. Mostly his idea!" Richard said, blushing.

"Relax. We'll celebrate after we're done here." Alastair said. "Sacred Impact!"

Michael destroyed a Jotun Shadow, and the blast harmed the Maya that was loitering behind it. Alas, there were still more people hiding, and more Shadows to eliminate. Not only that, the Ornatu Legion remained unconscious, with no signs of waking up. Could they survive?

|Interitus Legion Compound - Altar of Infinity|20:45 pm|

"What the-"

Zao had reached the end of the road, and he was now in a giant dome-like room. There was a giant circular platform in the centre, floating high over what must have been masses of Shadowy energy. And it seemed to be building up, as well.

The Divine Spark?! Is it really happening? Then...

He saw the Other Zao up ahead, and he had his weapon ready. This time, it was exactly like his counterpart's. There was no change in his facial expression, but he had taken a combat stance. Now, things were serious.

"Can I really stop the Eternal Road?" Zao said, glancing at the energy around him. I never managed much else in real life. How the heck can I prevent the end of the world?

He then cast his mind back to Amara and the others. Nathan, brave and honourable. Blaine, strong and loyal. Serena, kind and innocent. Aimee, a peaceful and compassionate leader. Karl, a true friend, no matter how many arguments they had. Then Amara, the sunshine of his life...

When I met you on that beach, I never thought we'd end up doing this together. Fighting so hard, to save another dimension. But life has a way of surprising you, doesn't it?

Zao stared directly into his dark shadow's eyes. He clenched his fists, and his heart was pounding.

Amara. Because of you, my smiles are genuine! I don't need to pretend everything's fine...because if you, everything really is! I'll save my other self, so you don't have to cry anymore!

"Please, listen to me!" Zao begged. "I know you can hear me. We're the same! It's not too late to save you. I'll do whatever it takes! If I have to beat you to a pulp, I will!"

The Other Zao charged forward, and slashed down fiercely with his glaive. Zao, distraught, rolled to the side, and swung with his own.

"Why...why did they have to do this to you?!" Zao cried. "There has to be something I can do! And I'll do it, I promise!"

The only sound in response was the clanging of steel.

|Outside NA-Wahman Control Room|20:45 pm|

"Samarecarm!"

Archibald watched, as the pulse of life returned to Blaine, and he laughed.

"It must be refreshing, to have women worry about you like that."

Blaine did not bother with a reply. Instead, he fired at him, and Archibald fired back using his gloves.

"Foncé Aroma!" Pierre used Loki's strange power, and before she knew it, Amara and her friends were covered in a strange odorous gas. "Ha! Remember that one, Karl?"

"...Yeah." Karl said. "You're a tough one to beat..."

"Naturally! We are the Ater Vox, after all! And time and time again, we will prove our dominance! Hailstone Tempest!" Nina said.

Upon the sight of Hel, the icy goddess of the afterlife, Amara shivered. Hel became surrounded by what seemed to be hailstones, then her double-edged weapon become even colder than normal. She then soared into the air, and manoeuvred herself upside down. In position, she span her weapon around, raining down immense icicles that pierced Amara and the others.

"Argh!" Amara screamed. "You!" She ran at Nina, slashing her as fast as she could. Burning anger fuelled her swings, and even Nina's sickle dance could not cease her rage.

"Mighty Braver!" Karl cried. while he punched Carlos in the face, Alexander slashed Josephine. However, he was victim to Carlos' next assault...

"You're a simple creature, aren't you? I imagine you've neglected your mind in favour of your strength. Let me show you the difference between you and I! Air Smash!"

This was an evolution of Wind Fist, and it was even more brutal. Karl felt the punch hit him in the stomach, and reeling from the attack, Carlos then punched him in the jaw, with a smug smile.

Josephine was trying to fire at Nathan and Amara, who were coming straight at her. Grinning, she summoned Cybele once again. "Magnadyne!" Nathan was struck with earth, and collapsed. "You should have learned never to anger me!" Josephine shouted. "I will have my eternal youth, whether you like it or not!" She sidestepped, dodging Amara's thrusts, and shot her repeatedly.

"Ah!" Amara cried.

"What's the matter? Are you not used to the threat of death, even now?" Josephine asked. "You simplistic child. You talk tough, but you couldn't possibly know what it means to fight for your life!"

"You think so?" Amara said. "Thanks to people like you, we've had no choice but to grow strong! All so we can stop you from destroying the world!"

Smirking, she slashed Josephine, and leapt forward, where Nina and Serena were trying to strike each other. "Agidyne!"

Burning flames engulfed Nina, allowing Serena to mercilessly attack her sister. Amara smiled - she was not about to be insulted, especially by someone as heartless as the Ater Vox.

Nathan and Archibald were trying furiously to attack one another, the former whacking away as many glove attacks as possible.

"Give it up!" Archibald shouted. "I may be a senior, but I can keep up with you far too easily!"

"If you say so..." Nathan said. "Garudyne!" He stopped running, and concentrated. A fierce blast of wind hit Archibald, forcing him backwards, crashing into Carlos.

"What the - Archie, why are you hitting ME?" Carlos asked.

"Do you honestly think I'd be sabotaging our chances at victory?" Archibald asked, exasperated. "Hurry up and get back into the fight!"

"Idiots." Pierre said. "Although none of them are quite as idiotic as you, dear Commander. Kanaloa must be proud to produce dunces like yourself."

"You go fuck yourself. What would you know about pride?" Blaine replied, angrily. "When I was growin' up, I was proud to call my old man my dad! And if I gave up, I wouldn't be a son to be proud of! So Pierre, fuck you to hell! Brutality!"

"What the -" Pierre gasped, as Tlaloc began to beat him to a bloody pulp with his hammer. "ARGH!"

"Awesome!" Serena cheered. She give Blaine a thumbs up, and quickly ran back, avoiding Carlos' fast punches. "Hey, watch it! Mediarama!"

To everyone's immense relief, they were healed up - which infuriated Pierre to no end. Angry, he viciously slashed Serena, then he stabbed at Karl. Rolling to the side, he dodged Nathan's attacks, and glared at him.

"You really think your team can survive?" Pierre shouted. "Your torture is just beginning, Mr Albion! Cruelle Couer!" Nathan gasped - Karl had told him about this one before. Rings of dark and purple power trapped Nathan, then they were absorbed into him.

"What...?" Nathan groaned. "I...feel..."

Pierre burst out laughing, and kicked him aside. "Nina! You might want this, if you want to survive!" Amara gasped - he had just enchanted her with Fire Wall. Now she couldn't immolate Nina...yet there was nothing to stop Nina from freezing Amara to death. Bufudyne struck Amara, and while she was on the floor, teeth chattering, she began swinging her sickles at Karl.

"It's a shame such a breathtaking beauty fights for such an ugly cause." Karl said, dodging her strikes.

"Do you expect flattery to accomplish anything?" Nina asked. "You might be able to charm women at nightclubs, but you will never stop me!"

"You say that, but you don't even know what we're capable of!" Karl said, cheerfully. Nina stopped, and blinked in confusion. "Spirit Breaker!" Alexander's heavy blade became enchanted with a white light, that when pointed at Nina, turned red. Then, he struck her with a immense slash, and not only was Nina knocked back, her Fire Wall had been completely smashed.

Carlos applauded. "It really is a shame we had to become adversaries. I would have enjoyed fighting at your side. Alas, we are eternally rivals."

"I know." Karl said. "Even so, none of us will hold anything back."

"Exactly right. Tornado Strike!" Carlos cried. Venti arose, and began spinning around at what must have been tornado-like speeds. Then, a whirlwind surrounded him, and engulfed the team. Not only was it powerful, it seemed to have a peculiar effect - the poison that was ailing Nathan was now in everyone's bodies.

"Terra Lapsis!" Josephine shouted. Cybele's red aura flared up, and the ground commenced to shake violently. Sharp rocks burst out of the 'ground', pummelling their victims with no mercy. This really was torture...

Nathan and Amara glanced at each other. At the same time, they were hit by a bolt of inspiration, that wasn't a Zio spell. Instinctively, they called up Hathor and Setanta.

"Eye of Horus!" They cried. A gigantic Tornado was formed, and within it were scorching hot flames. This mixture of heat and wind was unbearable for most of the Ater Vox, yet Pierre and Carlos managed to face up to it. Then, they were in the eye of the storm - which flashed, and a pillar of flame hit the entire Ater Vox, blowing them all into the ceiling.

"YES!" Amara cried. She and Nathan exchanged a quick hug. Yet now was too early to celebrate. They quickly returned to fending off their foes.

"I never imagined...you would rise to such levels of power! Yet we are the rightful rulers of this city! Blitz Sphere!" Archibald ordered. A sphere of lightning was generated by Thor, and began shocking Amara and the others. Then, it burst, and one of the monitors - which displayed indecipherable data - was completely destroyed, and fell off the wall.

"Ah..." Serena cried. "Owwie..."

"This is going to be more difficult than I thought..." Karl said. "And I thought winning the tournament would have been my biggest challenge..."

Blaine, looking rather fatigued, hit Carlos with Ziodyne. Then, he began shooting at each of the Ater Vox, yet Josephine's bullets hit him sharply in the torso. It was times like this that he has glad to have a Persona, otherwise he would have died many times over by now.

"You guys won't beat us!" He growled.

|Interitus Legion Compound - Altar of Infinity|20:46 pm|

"Stop!" Zao cried, blocking another swing. His mirror adversary did no such thing - instead, he attacked again, swinging with deadly intent. "Do I really have to do this?"

Fighting with just their weapons was useless. Yet Zao had barely recovered any energy, from overuse of Rashnu's abilities. Now, however, he had to try something to turn the tables.

"Rashnu, help me!" Zao begged. His Persona leapt into action, brandishing his blade. The Other Zao ceased the assault, and out came Doppelganger. Oh, here we go again...

Doppelganger flashed red, but then stopped. "Huh?" Zao said. Suddenly, he felt a huge surge of pain, and his head was in agony. "Argh! Stop...I can't...no!"

Zao fell to the ground, feeling as if something was crushing him from above. When he saw his other self, he gasped. Those cold dead eyes were finally moving...and they bore sadness. No matter how hard he tried, he could not move a muscle. He finally heard him make a sound - piercing screams, as his body suffered the same torment as his counterpart.

Just then, he heard a voice. One he knew very well. In his mind came a black haired man with a nearly constant frown. Zao's father.

"Zao, you fool! Do you think you can survive as a fisherman?! Your grandfather's always been a bad influence! It's time you looked at that book on careers I bought for you, and picked something worthwhile!"

Dad, you're wrong. What I do is worthwhile, more than you could ever know - why am I hearing you NOW, of all times? I need to do this! Damn, why does it hurt so much?!

He looked over, fighting the pain as hard as he could. His counterpart was still howling, and he began to speak.

"Dad...why...did you...never...like me fishing?!" He uttered. "Why?! Why did I always have to be what you wanted me to be?! I only wanted to be me!"

What?! He heard my dad too?

The situation had changed, completely. Zao had finally managed to stay upright, his body bearing every inch of the pain that was flowing through his veins. Soon, the other him did the same.

"Someday, I'd love to open my own art gallery. There'd be nothing better than people coming to see all my artwork and going 'Wow'. You know what I mean?"

"Why do you look like me?! What happened?! Where's my grandpa?" He wailed. "If you've hurt grandpa, you're dead!"

"Wait! I couldn't do anything to help him! You see, Bernard killed him -"

The Other Zao's Doppelganger had been suspended in mid-air for quite some time. However, now it was changing. It looked more like a bag, with something rolling around in it. And that something punched a hole through the face, revealing a sword identical to Rashnu's. With that sword, he cut through the body of Doppelganger, casting it into the abyss.

"Come with us, man. As of now, you're our student, and we're the masters! Do well, and I'll buy you a beer!"

"Huh?!" Zao screamed. Rashnu appeared before the other version of itself - which had a blue uniform instead of white. The hair was ginger, the same hue as Karl's. "Why...is this happening?!"

My other self, you have finally been freed from the cage that bound your heart. You must fly with me, to see the world with eyes of blue!

Other Zao glared at his counterpart, and began stomping the ground.

"You killed him, you bastard! I know it! They made you, you heartless freak, in that lab! I remember...Archibald did it! He made you, then you killed my grandpa! Yeah...that's right! Now you're going to pay!"

My other self, you have undone one of thousands of locks. Until I have consumed you, my wings are clipped, and I see nothing but darkness.

"Roger, I do not wish for you to kill everyone here. This is just to test your skills. However, feel free to eliminate that blue haired joker."

"That isn't true!" Zao shouted. Just trying to force his voice made the pain so much worse. Yet somehow, he was getting used to it. "You're me! The me of this world! Please, come with me! I want to show you to everyone else!"

"You never do! Don't you remember how we became friends? You went down the slide in the playground when I was on it, we crashed into each other, and I started yelling at you! You were just like "Sorry, didn't see you there!" and then you just pulled a funny face! That was a fun day."

"I don't WANT them!" Other Zao screamed. "I just want my grandpa! You took the only thing I had left...Karl and Aimee are already gone, aren't they?! So I have nothing! You're just a worthless clone!"

"No, it's alright. I'll be fine. I just...I just wish there was a world where the both of us were alive, without Shadows. But it's not going to happen."

"Aimee and Karl are still alive. Come with me, okay? We'll work together and beat Aeternus, once and for all! We'll get revenge on Archibald, and even kill Nihane!" Zao shouted. "Why aren't you listening to me?!"

"You know, he's right. You don't need to work on your arms! So go run twenty laps of the court! Oh, and that's an order. Scary things happen to people who don't follow my every word."

"I told you, you're just a clone! I'll make Archibald regret the day he ever cloned me!" Other Zao screeched. "And I'll make you bleed, just like you did my grandpa!"

"There's no time, Serena. You must go. ...What is he doing here?"

|Outside T-Ardwahist Control Room|20:47 pm|

Matthew stared at the gargantuan Shadows before him, and simply shrugged. "Hey, birdbrain! You too, treehouse! I got something else new to show ya! Berserker!"

Acolnahuacatl's attack was very much like Hyper Strike, yet stronger. There were three rapid attacks, hitting both the foul tree and the pesky bird, then one massive final strike, that would have lacerated a normal target.

"Megidola!" Seraphina cried. The pulse of energy that arose from within her detonated with incredible force, and while the two Trauma Shadows were recovering, Kyle literally added fuel to the fire - with his Soaring Phoenix.

"Argh!" Priscilla squealed, as a root from the Purified Yggdrasill hit her across the face. "You must learn the proper decorum when speaking to a lady!"

"That's a tree you're talking to, Priscilla." Dan said, chuckling.

"That goes for you too! You're such a slob at the dinner table! If you want to have a chance of wooing Shirley, you're going to have to work on your manners!" Priscilla said.

"Oi! I'm not that bad. Shirley doesn't mind...I think!" Dan said, blushing. Priscilla rolled her eyes, yet she couldn't help but giggle. To her, Dan was quite charming when it came to Shirley. Now, she was about to charm her allies.

"Aurora Borealis!" Priscilla cried. Icy light blighted her foes, and while the Northern Lights were happening within this room, she twirled her staff around like a baton, gleefully bashing both her targets.

"Excellent." Seraphina said. "Do not be so careless, however. They have their means of survival!"

To prove this, the Sentinel Vidofnir perched itself on the branches of the Purified Yggdrasill. Then, with a mighty caw, and spreading its vibrant wings, the tree was enchanted with the formidable Rakukaja. Not done with that, it made several feathers fall onto the tree's roots, and they turned into a strange substance that seemed to enrich them, and their colour improved.

"No...the Plumes of Dawn!" Seraphina groaned. "And...if we're unlucky, we may see -"

Disturbingly, the roots began to flash a lurid green, and the ground briefly turned into a flower-filled meadow. A peculiar substance, somewhat like blood but glowing and green, flowed up from the tree, and reached the Vidofnir. Now, it too seemed healthier, and flew off, and dived at Kyle. He hastily blocked with his sword, and Dan had to shoot it away.

"- the Mana of Creation!"

"Fuck..." Dan muttered. "Are all the Trauma Shadows gonna be this much of a bitch to fight once they come back to life?"

"Probably." Kyle said. "You know what that means, Dan. They give us hell, we give 'em hell back." He and Dan exchanged knowing smiles, and Tezcatlipoca burst onto the scene.

"I'm your grim reaper, baby! Soul Harvest!" Dan screamed. His deadly Persona swung his scythe in an arc, cutting into the 'flesh' of both Shadows. Red energy, resembling blood, was absorbed into Dan's body. "

"Nice." Matthew said.

"Actually, I thought that was somewhat gruesome." Seraphina said, fearfully.

"Come on! Dan showed those Shadows who's boss!" Matthew said. "Masukukaja!" The team, with the blessing of Acolnahuacatl, felt more nimble. Enough for Seraphina to avoid the Yggdrasill's roots - barely, however. "So are we going to win?"

"You know I cannot divulge that!" Seraphina replied. "It would take all excitement away! You may have this instead. Tetrakarn!" Sophia set up a reflective barrier, one that sent back physical moves - the opposite of the magical Makarakarn.

The Vidofnir, seemingly unaware, skydived at Dan, but the sharpness of its beak was mirrored right back - and it fell to the ground, making feathers fall over the room. Kyle did not waste any time - while the bird was incapacitated, he punished it further with Demon Crag.

Priscilla decided to give in to her dark side - and thus, Uathach was called again. "Graceful Blizzard!" The icy Persona began another dance, and as she did, a blizzard fell from the sky. Each snowflake was formed from pure ice, and soon, the floor was covered with frost, reaching high up the Yggdrasill's trunk.

"Whoa..." Kyle said, teeth chattering.

"I should have remembered to warm up..." Matthew said, shivering. "And I was whining about how hot the power tunnels were."

"Really? I just heard you asking Richard how hot he thought Cuiling and Atiqah were!" Dan said playfully.

"Shut up!" Seraphina snapped. "Look! The Shadows!"

The Vidofnir flew right in front of the Yggdrasill. With the ice melting, the latter's roots could move once more. And they were hungry for blood. The feathered fiend, its only ally, hungered for the souls of their five mortal enemies. They would give them the punishment of heaven and earth - Asgard & Midgard.

Everyone felt their violent intentions, very painfully. The tree's roots were sharper than ever, and swung around in a rampage, smashing them against the walls repeatedly. Seraphina bore the brunt of it the worst, her screaming echoing through the nearby area. Then, as if this wasn't enough, the Vidofnir cruelly began a terrible windstorm, the blades of air slicing into everyone's bodies.

"Make it stop!" Priscilla begged. "I...can't take much more!"

Eventually, the assault was over. Kyle was on the ground, and had to watch as everyone else, licking their wounds, got back up. Then Dan came to his rescue. Thanks to him, he was back in his chair, which had survived being destroyed - this time.

"Why is it always you who does that?" Kyle asked.

"Someone has to." Dan said, weakly smiling. "You've been my little bro for some time now. If you hadn't found me that day, I might never have met Matthew again. And you girls, we've been family for a long time now! So listen up, you fucking Shadows. You're not gonna kill one single member of my family! Blood Blitz!"

Tezcatlipoca rose high in the air, up to the Yggdrasill's roots. Holding his scythe firmly in his hands, he brought down lightning bolts that were as red as blood. This bloodthirsty storm grew more and more torrential, and there seemed to be an eerie red rain falling as well. Finally, the storm reached its apex, and exploded with one last bolt, cracking the tree's bark and sending the bird to the ground.

"Still not dead, are ya?!" Dan shouted. "Then get back up, if you've got the balls!"

"Dan, that's a tree you're talking to." Priscilla said.

|Aeternus HQ - Chamber of Eternity|20:55 pm|

Lately, Nihane had been spending all his free time here. For it was the only part of the Aeternus HQ where he felt truly at home, and one with Janus. Here, he sat down, in full lotus position, and both male and female avatars of Janus were at his side.

"I feel it. The rise of Vairya and Dusae Vairya in Sahrewar. Legarte." Nihane said, contemplative. "Yet their ascent is far too slow. Disturbing."

Do not give any thought to fear, Lord Nihane. You have endured more than eleven tiring years, preparing for the new epoch. Why do you refrain from celebrating? Perhaps you fear for your comrades. As of now, they are far below the surface, engaging your enemies in battle. Do you not want to aid them?

"Celebrating? That can wait until I have the new world. Once my people are restored, in the new country of Amurdad, then our festivities can last for a thousand years! But only then!" Nihane said. "And the advent of Sahrewar is approaching, albeit at a pathetically slow speed. Whether my comrades win the battle, or are slain - what difference does that make? The Eternal Road, MY Eternal Road, will be here! It was always to be mine, Janus! Not theirs!"

So you have discarded those who you once deemed your only friends. Without even a shred of guilt, either. How complicated human relationships are. Yet, you no longer require their company. Regardless, we shall stay with you, long after the Eternal Road is born. That is our only destiny - to stay with Nihane Kronos, our mortal counterpart, in all his guises.

"You two do make interesting allies. Never speaking as individuals, always as one. It's quite strange, hearing you so perfectly in sync." Nihane said. He seemed anxious, deep in his thoughts. "Never once, have I thought along the same lines as you."

What are you trying to infer, Lord Nihane? We are your Persona! Throughout the aeons, we have served your ancestors, becoming part of them! The centuries we were apart were lonely and bitter, and we were without purpose. Now, we shall wait here with you, until our perfect world finally comes together.

"Ah...forgive me." Nihane said, melancholic. "Whether or not we share the same mind, you have given me more power than I ever thought possible. And you managed to tear away everything I once was, even my old self. I do appreciate your help. So, if you will wait with me, I will lead you to a brand new world - where I am the only artisan."

As you wish, Lord Nihane. Our Eternity together will be the true Paradise.

|Interitus Legion Compound - Control Room L-Sahrewar|20:56 pm|

It had taken many battles to get this far, but finally it was done. The team were inside the eastern control room, still panting for breath. Kaman had seen friends that had died many years ago, that he had hoped were still alive...as had his comrades. Alas, there was no time to waste. Any minute now, they could return as Interitus Legion soldiers.

"...Done." Roger said. After a long and tedious navigation of the interface - described by Roger as 'clunky', 'outdated', and 'worse than RealPlayer and the Atari Jaguar combined' - he had pulled it off. The eastern wing of the compound would be free of the undead soldiers, and everyone could breathe easy.

"Thank goodness. I was tired of fighting those phantoms." Tara said. "They...were like Adrian. So cold, so alone...but we could have saved him."

"Huh?" Lucy asked. "I still don't really get it...this was before we met, right?"

"Indeed...Adrian and I, in the other world, are in love. Nathan told me all about how we met. It sounded like a fairy tale...one I wish was real." Tara said, mournfully. "How can I let my heart be swayed by someone I only know in another dimension? The Tara there is not me!"

"Maybe that's not quite true." Shirley said. "I don't know much about the other world, or what we're doing over there. I'm kind of afraid to ask...but the more I hear about it, the more real it feels."

"I'm starting to feel nostalgic, as well." Karen said. "Especially with you, Lucy. I feel as if...I can trust you with anything."

Lucy blushed, and scratched her heard. "Aww...glad to be of otherworldly service, then!"

"You've been amazing here, too." Shirley said. "You weren't bad when we were at Aeternus, but now you're so strong. Especially for someone so short..."

"Hey!" Lucy protested. "I'm not that small! Uh...um...Kyle's shorter than me!"

"He's in a wheelchair. Of course you're taller than him." Kaman said, standing in the far corner of the room. "Relax, your petite frame seems to be right up Blaine's alley. It makes him more protective of you, it seems."

"What the - did he actually say that?!" Lucy whined. "That's it! I'm gonna get even stronger than him! Then I'LL be the one protecting HIM!"

"Hmm." Tara said. She was deep in her thoughts, and then she chuckled. "Even though we're in a place like this, where the dead have been reanimated, we can still find the energy to laugh and smile. That proves how strong we are."

"Nicely put." Karen said. "But we need to get out of this dreary place. I'm worried about everyone else."

"What are we waiting for then? Follow me!" Tara said. Roger, frowning at the now-useless files in front of him, got up from the chair, and watched as the women left the room.

"They all seem so energetic. Kind of makes me wanna cheer with them." Roger mused to himself.

"Come on. You're thirty five. That's not a very adult thing to do." Kaman said, rolling his eyes - yet with a sly smile.

Roger nodded. Then he saw the girls laughing, joking with each other, and he felt his heart soar. "Ah, fuck it. WOOHOO!"

He leapt down the hall, with a huge smile on his face. Kaman smirked, watching Roger and the girls laughing together.

"I knew that'd get him to lighten up."

|Control Room S-Hordad|20:56 pm|

"Oh god. How are we supposed to use this stuff?" Other Amara asked. "Like, I know how a computer works, but...this looks like something out of Dexter's Lab."

"Good show. I'm proud." Serena said. "Come on, let me try. I think I remember how Kyle did it..." She nervously sat down on the chair, and began trying to copy the process Kyle executed.

"Whoa, Serena, do you even know what this stuff means?" Blaine asked.

"Do you?" She replied, frowning.

"Heck no. I didn't even know how to turn on a computer when I left high school!" Blaine said, shrugging. "But maybe we oughta call Kyle or Roger -"

"We can't do that! They're probably busy with the other rooms!" Aimee said. "We do this ourselves!"

"Even though we don't know what to do?" Nathan said. "Tomas really was a genius. If only he had put his intelligence and skills into truly helping us."

"...You don't know how many times I've wished that." Amara said. "He was so sweet, when I was a little girl. I thought he'd always watch over me and my father. The first time I met him, he looked at my drawings, and I thought he'd say how nice they were, just to cheer me up." She wiped away a tear, and looked down to her ankh. "But he started telling me where I was going wrong. So after I cried my eyes out, he told me to try again, because there was always room for improvement. Then he framed the drawing I made next, and hung it up on the wall."

"Tomas...I never really imagined him before any of this happened." Blaine said. "But...It would have been great to worked with him for real."

Aimee looked sad, and turned her back to everyone else. She looked up at the ceiling, gazing at the steel that lined every inch of this room.

"Aimee...are you okay?" Amara said.

"I'm sorry...I was thinking about the future. When we stop the Shadows for good, what can we do to make this city back to normal? We won't be able to use our Personas anymore...we'll have to face up to the future alone. I used to think it might be too much for us..."

"What do you think now?" Nathan asked.

"I think...even if it takes longer than a lifetime, we have to do everything possible." Aimee said. "Our city took so many lifetimes to build into what it was, after all. Those who came before did not build for themselves, but for the next generation. So they could live freely, in a city they could proudly call home. We may have to start over, but I don't mind...not if it's us working together."

"Heh..." Blaine said. "You're pretty confident. Guess ten years of fighting Shadows does that to you."

"Aimee, I'm looking forward to it. Like you say, there's so much that needs to be done. So why shouldn't we help out? This is our city, from now and forever!" Amara said.

"Exactly. I won't allow New Motus City to become like this ever again!" Aimee said forcefully. "It's...been so hard, to keep up the rebellion. Now I know it'll be worth it."

"Crap! Even after that speech, I still can't shut this thing down!" Serena whined. "Guess I'll have to do it the easy way."

The others watched, as she relentlessly tapped on the keyboard - without even looking at it. Instead, she watched as tons of different screens of data appeared on the screen, as well as images of Interitus Legion members and various weapons. Eventually, however, a message popped up:

All [44] Interitus Legion Capsules disconnected.

All [128] Persona Files deleted.

All [22] Weapon Data Files deleted.

All [5] Infinity Altar Monitoring Files deleted.

All [208] Combat Battle data files deleted.

Disconnected from Control Room NA - Wahman.

Disconnected from Control Room T - Ardwahist.

Disconnected from Control Room L - Sahrewar.

Disconnected from Control Room F - Spandarmad.

Shutting down Control Room S - Hordad.

"Whoa..." Serena said. "I dunno what I did, but it works for me!"

"I'm just grateful you didn't work for Albion Inc..." Nathan said, in awe.

"What's the Infinity Altar?" Amara asked. "Kyle didn't say anything about that one."

"Doesn't matter. Let's get out of here!" Blaine said. "Everyone else is probably waiting!"

"Huh? Those names for the five Control Rooms..." Nathan said, looking anxious.

"What's wrong?" Aimee asked.

"Don't mind me. Let's go." Nathan replied, and they left the Control Room - having destroyed a mammoth amount of research.

|Outside Control Room T-Ardwahist|20:57 pm|

The team had suffered massive injuries, thanks to Asgard & Midgard. Even so, they soldiered on - the Control Room was still to be deactivated, and everyone else was probably waiting for them.

"Wait, isn't anyone else worried why we're taking this long?" Priscilla asked, dodging another wind gust.

"Maybe they're all fighting hard battles too..." Matthew said, doing a back flip to dodge the Yggdrasill's roots. "Once we're done, we go help them! Garudyne!" The wind Acolnahucatl released struck the tree, while the flames of Hephaestus' Agidyne singed the eagle.

"Everyone...this is all I can offer." Seraphina said. "Please, do not hate me if it is not enough to see us through. Mediarama!" Sophia may not have been as medically oriented as Irene, Artemis, Chehooit, Raphael or Cybele, yet she managed to give everyone a fraction of their health back.

"You mustn't be so apologetic. We all can see you're doing your best! That in itself is enough!" Priscilla said. "Crystal Queen!" This fight had been a cold one, and Priscilla had become very proficient with her manipulation of ice.

The Vidofnir had been a rather agile threat, yet now it was desperate. It would prepare itself, with the Wings of Faith. It spread its wings, which somehow grew even larger - and stronger. Then, it managed to smack everyone down with them, and everyone crashed into the back wall. Kyle barely managed to stay in his wheelchair, much to Dan's relief.

"What the - the Vidofnir!" Seraphina said. "It is...on the very last ebb of its life! Now, we must kill it, swiftly!"

"Gotcha!" Dan said. "Guillotine Fall - shit!"

Right as he made the order to Tezcatlipoca, the Purified Yggdrasill was busy arranging something utterly vile. The roots dug deep into the ground, into the shadowy depths of the Compound. Perhaps they could lead to Inanis itself...

"Hurry up, Dan!" Priscilla cried. The roots began to glow vibrantly, and soon enough, they were flowing with energy. The wounded Sentinel Vidofnir hastily began flying up to the roots, being chased by Tezcatlipoca.

"Come on...get him!" Dan cried. Tezcatlipoca swung...just as the Vidofnir perched itself on its destination. One strike had cut off its supply of 'Mana', which had been barely a single drop. Now, with no more fight left in it, its body fell lifelessly to the ground, its neck breaking. The mask on it broke into pieces, each one fading away, and the body disintegrated, as did the leftover feathers.

"Ugh..." Seraphina said. "A pitiful end, to a pitiful sparrow."

"Don't get too excited!" Kyle shouted. "That tree's sucking up all the energy for itself! We can't let it recover, or we'll be here all night!"

"Got it!" Matthew said. "Berserker!" Acolnahuacatl bounded across the room, slashing through the surviving Shadow's bark. Yet thanks to Tree of Life, the Yggdrasill had managed to survive for the time being.

"Stellar Vision!" Seraphina cried. It seemed despite this much power, the Yggdrasill had been rejuvenated. What was there left to do? She hastily set up a Makarakarn, and prayed that would yield some success.

"Kyle, is there nothing you can do?" Dan asked.

"Not a thing..." Kyle said, panicking. "I don't have anything that isn't fire or earth! Hephaestus has his sword, but he can't use it by itself!"

"Damn." Dan said. "Just sit back and watch, then. Ziodyne!" Lightning struck the tree, yet it seemed to do little damage. With the amount of attacking everyone had been doing, they were getting rather exhausted. Then, Priscilla stepped up, with a look of absolute hatred in her eyes.

"You think you can just run away from our punishment? Recover after every attack, then beat us into the ground?" Priscilla asked. "Ridiculous! You'll be joining your scrawny winged friend very soon, believe me! Uathach, show him just what I mean!"

Immediately, snow came coming down just like that of Graceful Blizzard, yet faster and heavier. Then, Uathach began skating around the frozen floor, and threw huge spears made of ice into the Yggdrasill. While this was happening, frost began to cover the roots, freezing them in place. A cold mist surrounded the tree, covering the branches with huge icicles.

"Blizzard of Alpi!"

The spears that had impaled the Yggdrasill burst into fragments, leaving huge holes, out of which poured 'Mana'. Then, the frost hardened around its roots, growing into massive blocks of ice, until they shattered. Lastly, the icicles fell into the tree's trunk, all building up to a huge display of freezing death.

The sheer cold of this had shocked the Purified Yggdrasill to its very core. Unable to insulate itself, the once colourful leaves instantly turned brown and shrivelled up, falling down in a heap. Then, the twigs of the branches began to snap off, and the wood seemed to turn black. The amber cracked to pieces, falling out as well, and the roots began to wither and droop. Finally, the tree completely lost all its glory, and disappeared, along with its mask.

"That was...more than I've ever managed before..." Priscilla wheezed.

"Hey, you can take it easy now. You deserve a rest." Dan said. "Man...I'm never gonna work as a gardener after that. These Shadows piss me off...damn birds and trees."

"At least we won..." Kyle said, brushing sweat from his brow. "Without a proper healer, these fights become so much harder..."

"Why are these Trauma Shadows coming back?" Priscilla asked, worried. "As if we don't have enough to worry about!"

"Hey, that's right. Before we got interrupted, Seraphina was acting strange." Matthew said. "Come on, what's up? Is it about the Divine Spark?"

"Partially. Indeed, the land of Sahrewar is rising, with the advent of Vairya and Dusae Vairya slowly but surely reaching a deadly momentum." Seraphina said.

"What?!" Dan shouted. "That means we're fucked!"

"We don't know that. If it's happening slowly, there might be time to stop it." Priscilla said. "...Is there something else, Seraphina?"

"Are you sure you wish to know?" Seraphina said. "It is a recurring sight in my celestial visions - vague yet terrifying. On the eve of this day, I succeeded in giving that sight clarity - and upon doing so, I regretted my persistence..." She wiped a tear from her eye, and the others stood there, looking at each other in confusion.

"Seraphina! Just tell us what's wrong!" Priscilla said. "If we can stop it, you have to tell us now!"

Seraphina had to wipe away even more tears, and stepped away from the other four. To see her shift from her aloof, composed demeanour to such sadness was quite a shock.

"...Once we disable the Control Room, we must go to the Altar of Infinity. There, it shall become clear."

|Outside NA-Wahman Control Room|20:58 pm|

Serena and the others had taken some heavy damage during this fight, from all five of their foes. Thus, the time had come for another Mediarama.

"You think you're so strong, aren't you?" Pierre said, leering at Blaine. "Just because you can do bench presses, you can take anybody down?"

"Who lent you my workout plan?" Blaine asked. "I'm not out to be the strongest guy, you dumb fuck. I just wanna be strong enough to protect the world from dipshits like you!"

"Humph." Pierre said. "Then I have just the thing to cure your boisterousness. Peur Lumiére!"

Loki fired the red beam of fire at Blaine, and once the flames had subdued, Pierre burst out laughing. He slashed at Blaine with reckless abandon - and even after being knocked to the ground by Nathan, he still laughed.

"Blaine, what are you doing?" Amara shouted. "Why are you just letting him hit you?"

"I...dunno..." Blaine said, shaking. "This ain't like me..."

"Damn." Karl said. "I know what that move did now. It made the big clock thing really scared. So it even works on dudes as tough as Blaine..."

"Exactly! You're all cowardly at heart! With that much fear, how will you ever stop our 'evil' schemes?" Nina taunted. "I bet you won't even be able to endure this! Avalanche!"

Amara winced, but clutched her sword, preparing for the attack. Why does it have to be so cold today? It's only Autumn! Out of nowhere, sheets of snow came falling down from the air, and smacked through their chosen targets.

"Brr..." Amara shivered, her breath fogging up. Her entire body had been subjected to temperatures well below freezing point tonight, and had it not been for Hathor, she would have turned into a particularly exotic frozen treat. "I've had it with you!"

"Oh, really? What are you going to do?" Nina taunted. "Serena, do you realise how incompetent your friends truly are? If you had chosen wiser, you might have been spared tonight's execution!"

"You're wrong there, Nina. It's we who are the executioners tonight!" Serena roared. With more strength than ever before, she flung her whip around, cracking the ground and smacking Nina - and an unlucky Josephine around quite a lot. "NOW, Amara!"

"Right!" Amara knew what must be done. She saw Carlos attempting to destroy Karl with Skyward Dragon, while Blaine was frozen on the spot, staring fearfully at Pierre's blades. He charged at him, but he was caught off guard by Nathan's Mor Gaoth.

Hathor, one with fire and beauty, conjured a gigantic gemstone, one of a deep red. It was much like that of Ruby Ignition, yet greater in every aspect. It shone a red light all over, giving the entire environment a scarlet glow. And it was aflame, radiating intense heat all around. Now Amara was in her element, no longer in fear of the cold.

"Desert Jewel!" Amara cried. The upper and lower halves of the precious stone moved in opposite directions, and little by little, the stone opened up slightly, releasing heavy fireballs rained down on the Ater Vox. Finally, the giant ruby separated, and the last of the fireballs seared the ground.

"Yes!" Nathan cheered.

"Go Amara!" Serena chanted. "That was kinda like my Titanic Rainfall, don't you think?"

"Urgh..." Nina groaned. She was on the floor, severely weakened. Pierre stood next to her, completely unscathed, yet he was irritated at the sight of his wounded comrades. He tried to lash out with his swords, only for Alexander to hit him mercilessly with his own.

"No way!" Karl shouted. "Blaine, for god's sake, act like a man! Valour!" Alexander shoved the dizzy Pierre to one side, and grabbed Blaine by the shoulders. Then, a strange energy was born from Alexander's fingertips, and Blaine's eyes widened.

"What the - what the heck was that?" Blaine said. "The hell was I being a wimp for? You're in for it now, loser!" Berserk, he took his gun and shot repeatedly at Pierre, and managed to smash him with a quick hammer strike from Tlaloc.

"You're much braver now..." Archibald said, with a strange look in his eyes. Was it pride, or anger? Amara noticed Serena shaking, staring at Blaine in fear.

"Cheers, buddy, but I ain't doing this to impress ya." Blaine said. "Back when this got started, I was just in it to have something else to do with my crappy life. Now...life's pretty amazing. I might just pull off this save the world thing!"

"Maybe so." Archibald said. "However, we aim to do the same! If you cannot open your eyes, after so much bloodshed, then the end draws near! Maziodyne!"

Electricity sparked all around, and soon the team were victim to a freak thunderstorm. However, Blaine stood tall, and Tlaloc rose to the air, proud. Someway, somehow, Blaine had used Maziodyne himself. It didn't have quite as much oomph, but it was enough to make the entire room shake, and cracks appeared on the walls.

"You...don't scare us." Blaine said.

"Good to know." Josephine said dryly. "Unfortunately, it's high time we finished up this altercation. Mediarama!" Now she had healed herself and her allies, she had a sinister smile on her lips. "Everyone. For a decade, we have worked together and ruled an entire city! Soon, the five of us will go our separate ways to rule our perfect worlds. There will never be another chance to do this!"

"What are you getting at, Josephine?" Carlos asked.

"I would have thought it was obvious, Carlos." Pierre said, ignoring the Spaniard's wrath. "We're going to...fuse our power together. All of us."

What? ALL of them?

"Very well." Archibald said. "The finest combination of our powers...if only Nihane were here with us."

"With him, our fight would have been far too easy!" Nina retorted. "We must do this on our own, to prove our worth to him!"

"Then it is settled! Everyone, on my mark!" Josephine bellowed. "CHARGE!"

Cybele, Thor, Hel, Loki & Venti were fuelled with power unlike ever before, their bodies almost completely bathed in evil vermillion light. Each one began chanting strange, archaic rituals, with glyphs, runes and emblems appearing around them, and a huge dark symbol - the Aeternus logo - appeared on the floor. Strangely, it began to emanate a sound like that of the Shadows, and a black sphere came into being above the dark insignia.

"What?!" Amara screamed. Something invisible seemed to be sucking her in, almost like something heavy was pushing her forward. No matter how hard he held on, she inched closer and closer. One by one, the group were sucked inside, hearing nothing but the cold laughter of their enemies.

"Ater Vox!"

|Unknown|

The entire area around them was pitch black, and the team couldn't see anything but themselves floating in the air. No ground was around to stand on, nor was there anything to see but empty darkness. Was this Inanis, perhaps? Or something worse?

"Crap..." Karl said, dismayed. Amara heard the noises of Shadows, whom were rather agitated. There had to have been at least thousands inside this dark plane of existence. Their red eyes were visible now in all corners, and some were getting far too close for comfort. "How are we gonna get out of this?!"

"I don't know!" Blaine cried. "This...has never happened before! We're not gonna be able to avoid them...are we?"

"Their power is unreal...maybe we've underestimated them right from the start." Serena said sadly, barely able to stay still. "Maybe this is it..."

"No. It cannot be..." Nathan said glumly.

"Guys..." Amara said. To see her friends so downcast was agony to her. Worse than any ice Nina could produce. "We're not dead yet! What have I told you guys about giving up? We never quit! I won't, and I'll never let you guys either!"

"Tough, as always..." Karl said. "Even when you were in college, you were always fired up. No matter you got Agi spells. But how can we survive that portal? Even from here, it's hurting us..."

"We have to fight back!" Amara said. "Come on!"

The others, after some thought, nodded. Hathor was summoned, as were Setanta, Artemis, Tlaloc and Alexander. Rashnu should be with us...that's right! Zao's still waiting for us! We've got to get back to him.

Each Persona, unlike their corrupt archenemies, were engulfed by a blue aura like a raging fire. Their bodies were brighter and brighter, radiating light upon this dark place. Then, they began to chant. To most people, it would have sounded like unintelligible gibberish. However, Amara knew what their words meant.

For those with a firm grasp of their identity, we will not forsake our duty. We art thou. Thou art we. Even in a false realm of Shadows, your wills cannot be shaken by deceit. If that is so, our power is without all limit! The world you wish to save, you shall return to!

Everyone gasped, as the five Personas charged up with incredible, god-like power. Then, as one, they fired it all around, illuminating the area. Blue energy bullets shot all around, piercing the distant Shadows and destroying them all with megaton explosions.

"Holy shit..." Blaine said. "We're...gonna get out of here alive!"

"Yeah! Hang on tight, partner. It's going to be a ride to remember." Nathan said.

"Right!" Karl said. "The Ater Vox can sent us here, but we'll come back no matter what!"

"I've never felt so alive..." Serena said. "Nina! I'm coming to get you!"

"New Motus City has to be saved! Until that happens, we are never going to stop the rebellion!" Amara shouted.

"Voice of Light!"

The bright white light pierced the darkness, and the red eyes were obliterated by the bombardment of bullets. Then...

|Interitus Legion Compound - Outside NA-Wahman Control Room|21:11 pm|

Amara was now standing on terra firma, and to her relief, so were her comrades. Serena hugged Blaine out of sheer relief, and he laughed, holding her tight.

"Scared, were we?" Blaine said. "I thought I was a goner, too...good to see you live and kickin'."

"Same here...I thought I'd never see Kyle again...or get you to help me with homework once every few weeks..." Serena said, sheepishly.

"Dream on, missy. Once you're in college, you'll have to study on your own!" Blaine said. "But, maybe we can celebrate every time you get a high grade. A few drinks on the house, maybe."

"It's so good to be back in the real world. Even if it IS this underground hellhole." Nathan said. "Ever since we've been here, I've feared for my life with every single step."

"...Amara. Are you hurt?" Karl asked. "I...was afraid our plan wouldn't work, and Aimee might never see us again..."

"Same..." Amara said. "I'm just glad to be back. Come on, we've still got to -"

She took a good look at her surroundings. The room was barely in one piece, with huge cracks and a hole in the room, and all the equipment to the right was severely damaged. The door to the Control Room had been blown to pieces, and from the sparks in there and the broken screen, the system was thoroughly disabled.

"Looks like our plan really worked out!" Serena said, happily. "They'll never get the capsules working again after that!"

"Yeah. But where ARE the Ater Vox?" Nathan asked. "Did they run away?"

"No way. They're not cowards." Blaine said. "After all, they're just like us."

"So...are you saying we killed them?!" Karl said, shocked. "No way...are we in trouble?"

"I...don't know." Amara said. "If what we've just done destroyed the Ater Vox...Nihane will hunt us down to the ends of the earth."

"Yes...and he's not easily defeated." Nathan said. "That can wait, however. We must reach Zao!"

"Right. He's bound to be worried..." Amara said. "Let's get out of here, then!"

|Legarte Aeternus Supply Centre|21:14 pm|

It seemed that all the Shadows had perished, for there were none left in sight. One by one, the looters appeared, some relinquishing their items, and ran outside, whimpering.

"...Have we finally won?" Bianca asked, exhausted. "Where's Keisha?!"

"No need to panic! Don't get your knickers in a twist." Keisha said, calmly strolling in. "I was busy calling back up. Now we can get everyone home safe & sound!"

"Thank goodness. I wasn't sure if we'd have to do that ourselves." Alastair said. "Who knows how long that would have taken..."

"Well, we can rest easy for now. Looks like all the Shadows are dead...good job." Keisha said, giving two huge thumbs up. She gazed at the wreckage around here. "We really trashed this place, didn't we? It's going to take a long time to get this place up and running again. What a headache. You guys know where to find another milkshake store?"

"A pressing concern, I'm sure. But we really came through for those people." Bianca said. "I just wish we could have saved them all. But after being in this city for so long, I've come to expect sorrow..."

"You don't have to talk like that. I wanted to help everyone I could." Keisha said. "But for those who we couldn't rescue, I'll make sure we look after their families. And I promise, we'll do something about supplies until we fix this place."

"That's very considerate of you." Alastair said. "You have our gratitude. I only regret facing you on the battlefield in the future..."

"What are you going to do now?" Richard asked. "You might want to do something about all those Ornatu Legion soldiers. They all passed out when we got in here. From what Aimee told us, that's a sign the Divine Spark is happening."

"What?!" Keisha screamed. "You're kidding me, right? Then why didn't the Ater Vox tell me?!"

"No idea. They're not the easiest people to work for." Alastair said. "Everyone else went up to the third floor, to find the hidden chamber."

"Oh god, that's right..." Keisha said. "They told me a little about that. Apparently, Tomas built some high-tech facility where he could bring dead Legion soldiers back to life!"

"Is that right?!" Kazuya said. "Then our friends are in danger!"

"Let's hurry and join them. I just hope we're not too late..." Alastair said. "Keisha, can we ask you to keep silent on our being here tonight?"

"Actually, I was gonna tag along. I wanna see what this lab is all about." Keisha said. "He's done enough damage to the dead! If you guys are gonna blow that place to smithereens, count me in! Just for tonight, you understand."

"We know." Bianca said. "Thank you, Keisha. We ought to hurry, for our friends' sake."

The five ran up the stairs, in search of the Interitus Legion Compound - where decisive battles had concluded. Yet another was still ongoing...

|Altar of Infinity|21:16 pm|

Zao could not believe his ears. Against all odds, he had finally managed to restore his other self's heart. Yet everything had gone horribly wrong. Now, the Other Rashnu was preparing his attack - and unless Zao fought back, he would be joining his grandpa tonight.

"See what happens when you challenge me? Your precious teamwork and friendship isn't good enough! Now you can join the others who failed, and become part of the new world."

"Bloody Destiny!" Both Zaos screamed. Each Rashnu cut through their opponent, with one swift strike of their blood-red blades.

So he knows that move...what about this one?

"Mass Destruction!"

Again, both Zaos shouted the same move. At the exact same time, the two Rashnus slashed their adversaries, except twice, with savage strikes powered by immense energy.

"Now, you there. Are you that afraid of me? You pathetic coward...I ought to end you here and now. Wimps have no place on the battlefield."

"How are you using that attack?!" Other Zao shouted. "It's...it's mine! Mine! I learned it!"

"Oh, leave him be. At least he's eaten some salad, unlike you and Nathan..."

"Oh yeah? When?" Zao said.

"Oh, come on! Zao gets FOUR girls? I'm stuck with a teenager and Nostradamus!"

"Uh...It was before we met Karl at White Rose Acade - argh!" Other Zao held his forehead, wincing in pain, as he tried to search his memory. Don't tell me he has my memories too? "Shut up! You're nothing compared to me! Just a cheap clone used to take care of my grandpa!"

"Do you really think so, Matthew? What sort of name is Zao? ...Forget I said anything. It's...not so unusual. Right?"

"Why would I do that?" Zao said. "I love Grandpa! You should know that better than anyone! When I found out Bernard Severn murdered him, I went crazy. Karl...I always wanted to be like him. He was dumb as rocks, but I didn't care! He was good at everything he tried. I never managed to be like him. But I don't have to be. Because I know now, I'm Zao Yuria! I can be whoever I want!"

"Just...stop...talking!" Other Zao yelled. "I can't...I can't take it anymore!"

"Sir Zao, if you refer to me by that ridiculous moniker ever again, I'll use your bones in herbal remedies."

"Starfall!" Yet again, they attacked simultaneously. Rashnu beckoned five clusters of light above his head, and they slowly grew into radiant stars, as bright as those that adorned the night sky. Then, each star flew down, exploding like a supernova. Zao had never felt his body hurt so much before...every muscle ached. His heart was pounding like crazy. And all he wanted to do was cry. But he couldn't. Not until he got through to the other him...

Amara managed to win round her other self! Blaine, Nathan, Serena, they all did it! So why can't I? Come on...this is torture! Help me, someone!

"Astral Laser!" The two Rashnus faced each other, hands on their weapons. Hovering in the air, they drew ovals with their swords, and thoses circle transformed into rather spectacular star symbols. With both hands, Rashnu pushed on the symbol, and it fired a massive laser. The Other Rashnu did the exact same, and Zao felt his own strength hit him in full force.

"Stop..." Zao said, coughing. "I said stop! You're suffering, aren't you? You've been in pain for so long! Don't you remember anything until now? You were like a zombie, a ghost! But now you're human again! I know it won't be easy. But I'll take you out of here, and we can build a new life for you! Aimee will help you!"

"Don't you dare take about Aimee that way! She was...she was so precious! More than you'll ever know!" Other Zao yelled, holding his arm. "I...always wanted to protect her. And making her smile was the highlight of my day! But it's too late to save her...from this world! This stupid world, and the stupid Shadows! They took Aimee's smile away!"

Aimee hasn't had much to smile about lately. But if I brought you home, she'd smile as much as you want. But you won't listen to me, will you? Then...what do I do? Amara, you always think positively. You always say ''We can do it', even in times like these! It's one of the things I love about you.

He could not lose this fight. For Amara to stumble upon such a scene as him being torn to shreds by his other self would be a nightmare. He had to spare her that pain. With that, his own agony seemed to disappear, little by little. And his body felt lighter, and faster. Strength came to him, more than he'd ever known.

"When I told him your new boyfriend was coming over for dinner, he insisted on meeting him. Don't worry, Zao, they'll be plenty of fish for everyone."

"Helios!"

The Rashnus, driven by dark fate, gathered the heat necessary to forge the fireball that made Helios. Each one crashed into their chosen targe. The Other Zao yelped, falling to the ground, yet Zao himself stood tall, and managed to shrug off the fiery projectile.

"Well well well. Nice to see he's as romantic as the last one."

"How...how are you still standing?!" Other Zao asked, getting to his feet.

"You were just rambling about your damn grandpa! If Karen hadn't said anything, you'd be toast!"

"Because I want to save you!" Zao replied. "Why are you so determined to believe your own lies? Can't you look into my eyes, and hear my words? You'd know I'm telling the truth!"

"You know Amara, it's always perplexed me how he manages to be so cheerful."

"No..." Other Zao said, trembling. "I don't know what's real anymore! Just stop, STOP TALKING TO ME!"

"Blaine, stop it. His other self's even worse than we thought yours was. This thing is barely even human anymore. We can't really expect ask him to ignore that and fight him."

"...What?" Zao said.

"Every time you speak...I see things I know have never happened! There's people I know I've never met...there's a girl, a beautiful girl, one that I want to see more than anything else...but I don't know her! Why are you doing this to me?!" Other Zao screamed. "I...even want to marry her! Why would I feel that way about someone who doesn't exist?!"

I want to marry Amara? Maybe I do. Once this is over, you'll get to see she's real. Then I'll work my way up to a proposal...I think I can manage that. Blaine will probably bet I won't do it, Nathan will get angry at him because of 'how special the sacred institution of marriage is', and Serena will want to be flower girl...

"Heartful Cry!" Both Zaos screamed. The power of their hearts collided, via almighty power gathered by the very height of Rashnu's power.

"Your girlfriend? I'm going out with this wimp? I suppose he's got nice hair. Plus he is sort of cute when he's smiling!"

This was unprecedented. Never before had he been able to withstand such an onslaught. What was powering him, enough for him to endure such pain? Everything that had happened had given Zao nothing but the deepest sorrow. To see his other self pitifully strive for vengeance was a sight he wished he had never seen. Then there was the possibility that the Divine Spark would murder every single one of his friends, and they would never be together again...

"I was wondering what that smell was. Kidding. Nice to meet you, buddy."

No...I promised I'd see you all again, didn't I? Looks like it's come down to this. If I can't save my other self, so be it! As long as I can save all of you!

"I...I won't forgive you! Ever! You're just like the Shadows - you ruined EVERYTHING! The world! Grandpa, I should have been there to save you! Please, grand me the power to stop your murderer!" Other Zao begged.

"Also, Zao, why do you seem so quiet? Are we boring you?"

"Zao, buddy, that's all you've talked about since you got here! I'm surprised you're not flipping around on the ground! What else do you get up to?"

"Yes, and we can bring the others as well! Nathan, Priscilla, Amara, Stella, and Lucy! I've started to like spending time with you people."

The Other Rashnu began to execute a move Zao had not used for some time. That fateful day in Takanawa, when he had finally done something no one else could beat. Eight grand spheres, symbolising the eight elements of Persona and Shadow power, appeared around the Other Rashnu, as it readied his sword.

"I'm looking forward to it. That pretty lass reminds me of your old grandmother, you know. Especially the way she smiles when you're together!"

"So, you've got all of my attacks, right down to the Personification." Zao said, giving a taunting gesture. "Come on, then! Show me what you've got!"

"Are you kidding me? He'll just end up trying to catch really dead fish! Nihane, you can't leave me with him!"

"I'M the real Deo! Get out of my house, now!"

"Gladly! You're dead, you evil clone!" Other Zao cried. "Final Fate!"

"You idiot! We don't even know why the place is shut! How can you be so stupid, Zao?"

The laser that erupted from Rashnu's sword was one of ultimate destruction, filling the room with light. The entire Compound was shaking, yet another force was the source of the tremors...

"Me and Zao are making our castle! One day, we're going to rule the Kingdom together, and I'll be the prettiest queen ever! But you can be our Duke!"

"You idiot. There is! Haven't you noticed? You make me smile, more than I thought possible. I never thought I could love someone more than Karl. But you proved me wrong. I can't thank you enough! Zao, I love having you here. Don't ever feel that you're unwanted, okay?"

|B1 Corridor A|21:19 pm|

When Amara and the others reached the ground floor, they noticed something unexpected - All the other teams were here. Everyone seemed relived to see them, but Seraphina herself had her eyes to the floor.

"...Guys? You were waiting for us?" Amara asked.

"Yeah. Seraphina asked everyone to meet down here." Dan said. "We got all the Control Rooms deactivated, thank god, but something's up..."

"What?" Serena asked. "Don't tell me - the last Divine Spark's actually happening?"

"Indeed." Seraphina said. "Yet unlike before, it is incredibly slow to arrive. Now I understand why. Up ahead is a room deemed the Altar of Infinity, constructed by Tomas to absorb energy from a Divine Spark for his own personal use."

"...So the entire Divine Spark is happening in this Altar?!" Blaine asked. "What the hell was Tomas thinking?"

"From my understanding of his psyche, he was after power from the very beginning." Kyle said, sighing. "Imagine if he had seized both Farawell and Legarte - even Nihane might not have been able to stop him."

"Never mind that now!" Amara said. "Where's Zao? He went down here!"

"We haven't seen him." Priscilla said. "We assumed he went back to the Supply Centre to help out the Holy Cross..."

"It's not just Zao. The other one's here too!" Serena said. "They might still be fighting..."

Just then, the elevator came back down, with the Holy Cross in it. None of them seemed harmed, yet also with them was Keisha...

"You!" Matthew shouted. "Why is she here?!" Everyone grabbed their weapons, but the Holy Cross shook their heads.

"Guys, chill out!" Keisha said, anxiously. "I'm just tagging along for now. Tomas built this place, right? Then the only thing to do is make sure you guys destroy it!"

"So far, we've shut down the five control rooms." Other Nathan said. "How are things up there?"

"A few casualties..." Keisha said, sadly. "Even so, we managed to save most of the people. I had them escorted safely home. That mall is a wreck now, thanks to the Shadows, the looters, and, well, us..."

"Are you alright?" Matthew said, looking at her closely. "Your arm's bleeding..."

"I know..." Keisha said, wincing. "I had a bad landing...but don't worry, Richard here healed me up a little. So what are we all doing here? Is there something up ahead?"

"...We must move onward." Seraphina said. "If we do not go to the Altar of Infinity, we shall regret it forever." Without heeding anyone's doubts, she marched onward. The group had no choice but to follow.

Regret it? Why? Seraphina, you're scaring me...

|Altar of Infinity|21:24 pm|

When the group reached the Altar, they gasped. All they could see on the giant platform was bright light, that of immense power.

"Zao!" Amara cried. She ran ahead, but Nathan and Blaine held her back. "Let me GO!"

"You want to get killed?!" Blaine shouted. "If you run in there, you'll get blown to pieces!"

"He's right!" Nathan said.

Just then, the light began to vanish. On the right side of the platform was the Other Zao, who was seething with rage. Those eyes, full of hate, and the sheer vehemence in his heart...Amara felt a shiver down her spine. He may have regained his humanity, but at what cost? With fear, she slowly glanced to the left - yet there Zao stood strong. His body was covered with bruises and cuts, but he managed a smile. A huge smile. And he was looking straight at her.

"I knew you'd be okay!" Zao said. "Everyone, you're all here!"

"You..." Other Zao said. "That girl...why are you here?! We've...never met...but...I love you!"

"What's going on?!" Amara shouted. "Zao, what happened?"

"He...went back to normal." Zao said. "Stay back, please! This is my fight...Karl, don't let her get involved!"

"What?!" Amara cried. "You can't -"

"Alright." Karl said, and he held Amara's hand. He grabbed Aimee's too. "Zao needs to do this by himself. But I know he can win."

"Zao!" Aimee shouted. "Please, let me heal you!"

"No need." Zao said, even though his legs were trembling. "Now that you're all here, I feel just fine. Better than ever."

"Why aren't you dead?!" Other Zao shouted. "You psycho! Did you smile when you bashed my grandpa with that shovel?"

"He's gone crazy..." Blaine said.

"Zao, hang in there!" Kyle said.

"What the - why is he fighting by himself? We should we helping him!" Lucy shouted.

"Zao told me once how much he hates being weaker than everyone else." Roger said. "That's why he worked so hard to learn those new attacks. Now he's finally facing his other self."

"The kid's got some guts..." Other Blaine said.

"Zao, I know you'll be okay!" Karen said. "Be strong!"

Zao glanced at everyone, watching him from the entrance to the altar. He smiled at each and every one of them, and they gave him warm smiles back - even Keisha.

"Keisha. Alastair. Bianca. Kazuya. Richard. Lucy. Shirley. Roger. Karen. Matthew. Tara. Kaman. Dan. Priscilla. Kyle. Seraphina. Serena. Blaine. Nathan. Karl. Aimee. Amara!" Zao cheered. "Everyone, I know you think of me as the underdog, the weakling who makes everyone else look strong. But I know something else - you're my family! My friends! The only friends I've ever had! I don't know how to thank you, for making me feel like I belong...but you won't have to worry about me anymore!"

"What?" Amara asked. Zao shut his eyes, and started to 'pray'. Rashnu flew around the outer edge of the room, and everyone watched as a card of power flew out of their hearts - the Major Arcana, the entire deck. The two Deaths and Devils merged into one each, then all the cards arranged in a perfect circle - with Zao's Fool in the centre.

The Other Zao ran up, and leapt in the air to attack - but he was stopped in mid-air just before he fell. Other Rashnu became paralysed.

"What...is this?!" He cried.

"Infinite Journey!" Zao cried. The Fool summoned the other cards into a single deck, and out of that deck came a single card - The World. Right then, the room seemed to change into a massive blue expanse, with twinkling stars all around. Then, Amara noticed Hathor was in front of her. And so were everyone else's Personas. Each one of them fired massive amounts of energy into Rashnu's blade, causing it to grow at least twenty times in length. Rashnu began slashing repeatedly, sending out shockwaves that extended to the very limits of this paranormal realm. Then, Rashnu flew high in the sky, and at rocket speed, impaled the World Card - and immediately, a gigantic planet-sized rainbow sphere appeared, and grew bigger and bigger. Just then, there was a deafening sound, and Amara felt herself crash to the ground, which was shaking like an earthquake.

Finally, everything was over. The room was back to being the Altar of Infinity. Zao and Rashnu were still standing, yet had reached their absolute limit. That level of power would never be reached by them again. The Other Zao stood perfectly still, and then, something strange happened. Tears fell from his eyes, and he stepped backwards, at the very edge of the platform. The metal fence had been completely obliterated, due to the sheer energy released by the confrontation.

"I..." Other Zao mumbled. "I...just wanted...to save...grandpa..."

No one said a word. The others could only get to their knees, but Amara managed to stand up. She went to the platform, and despite the sheer pain she had been through tonight, she made it all the way to him.

"What...?"

"It's alright. Your grandpa is proud of you. Both of you."

Just as he turned around, Amara thought she saw a faint flicker of a smile. Alas, he fell - as he decended, his body dissolved into countless particles of light, which sank into the depths. Other Rashnu dropped his sword, which 'melted' into the ground and completely faded. Then, his body broke into tiny parts, all of them disappearing into nothingness.

"Zao..." Amara said, as she turned around. "I'm sorry...we couldn't save him..."

He shook his head. Unbelievably, he was smiling, right after the events of tonight. She went closer to him, and took hold of his hands.

"I knew I couldn't do it. So I thought about saving you guys instead." Zao said, yet his voice was weak. "Now, you guys will never have to fight me again."

Then, his smile suddenly changed. He looked afraid, and a tear was streaming down his face. Then, he fell backwards, landing hard on the ground.

"Zao?" Amara said. He simply laid there, his chest rising faster and faster. "...Zao!"

"Haha..." Zao said. His voice was so hoarse, it was like a whisper. Amara went over to him, and grabbed his hand. "I...really can't do anything right apart from fishing, huh? Why did...I think I could...save the world?"

"Zao, what are you saying?" Amara asked. "Can you stand?"

He did not respond. Instead, he saw Amara's eyes, so full of fear, and reached up.

"Hey...why are you crying...?" Zao asked. "You guys are...gonna be fine!"

"Amara! What's happening?!" Aimee screamed. She and Karl ran over. Nathan, Serena and Blaine slowly walked to Zao's side, and gasped. He had truly suffered tonight, and yet he was...happy.

"Funny...up until I wound up here, I was so alone...I just thought I'd be fishing with my grandpa..." Zao said, his voice growing even weaker. "You guys...saved me from it all...thanks...tell my grandpa I'm sorry..."

"What are you talking about?" Karl asked. "You're going to be alright. We'll get you out of here -"

"Don't...be sad." Zao said. "I...met up with you again, didn't I? I saw you fulfill your life's dream...and Aimee...she's gotten so strong...but she needs her big brother by her side..."

"You'll be with her too!" Karl cried. "Stop-stop saying all that! You'll be okay! I promise! I- I'm sorry I said all that stuff! You're still my best friend, no matter what!"

"I knew that all along, you dork..." Zao said, grinning. He laughed. "Nathan...you and Priscilla are gonna have a great wedding. I...wish I could watch...but they'll be more cake for everybody else..."

"Zao..." Nathan said, dumbstruck. "You...can still come -"

"Serena, you won't fail college...not like me..." Zao said. "You're a smart cookie...I wish I could have played all those games you reccomended..."

"You can!" Serena said, hysterical. "Once we get you out of here! It's not too late!"

"...Blaine, I...couldn't be as tough as you...but you'll look after everyone, won't you? Not just Lucy...everyone's counting on you..." Zao said.

"...I will, buddy." Blaine said, solemnly.

"This can't be...no...not after..." Aimee said. She felt to her knees, leaning over Zao's body. "I...tried to find you for so long! You can't go...not yet! Please!"

"If only...I could stay..." Zao said. His voice was quiet, yet every word echoed in Amara's ears. "Aimee...you'll be alright...just remember...you're in charge...everyone's fighting with you..."

"Stop this!" Amara cried. "I've heard enough! You - you're not going to - you'll be alright! I promise!"

Zao stared right at Amara, and he smiled. "You...made me happy for real...Amara, I can never thank you enough. But I'll never...be able to ask you to...be with me...forever..."

"What?!" Amara wailed. "Zao, no! You can't - you can't leave us! We need you! Please, don't go!"

"Amara...I love you." Zao said. "You'll...have that art gallery...and everyone's gonna...see it..."

Amara shook her head, her face wet with tears. "So will you! I know you will..."

Zao gazed at her longingly, and when he tried to lift his arms, they barely moved. Then, out of nowhere, Rashnu appeared, and stood before Amara. He took off the helmet and the mask, and she gasped. Beneath them, was Zao's own face, with the exact same smile. That same handsome face, the one that intrigued her from afar, and she came to adore up close. Not only that, she just realised Rashnu had the same build and height.

"What...are you -"

Rashnu then held Amara by the shoulders, stroking her hair and face. She stood still, petrified. Then Rashnu leaned in close, and their lips met. She shut her tear-stricken eyes, and then Rashnu's arms wrapped around her, holding her tight, and his lips were filled with softness. Instincts made her place her own hands on Rashnu, and to her surprise, she was able to hold him, just as she held Zao. She held that kiss, just as she had done throughout the past few months. In her mind, as she closed her eyes, she heard a voice.

I'm sorry I have to go. But I couldn't leave without one last kiss. Amara, good luck. I know you and everyone else will be just fine. Look at everything we've been through. You never gave up then, and you won't now. Please, promise me you won't quit. Not until you save the world.

Amara opened her eyes, and saw Zao. With everything that had transpired tonight, anyone would expect him to be distraught. Yet he looked happier than he had ever been. His eyes took a final glimpse of everyone around him, and then slowly began to close.

"No! Don't! Don't go!"

"Zao!" Aimee shouted. "Wake up! Please! PLEASE!" Karl tried to shake Zao's body, harder and harder. Yet Zao did not open his eyes, or utter a sound.

It was too late. Zao's eyes were closed now, never to open again. Never again would anyone hear his voice, or watch him swell with pride as he showed off his catch of the day. Nor would they eat with him, drink with him, laugh with him, or cry with him.

Rashnu slowly began to rise up, leaving his sword on the ground. Out of his body came blue smoke, and little by little, he was disappearing. By the time Amara reached out to him, he was gone. Only his faithful sword remained on the ground, never to be wielded by its master.

Zao Yuria was dead.