Sorry it took awhile to update but here it is. Please enjoy the story...
July 19th:
-Third Perspective-
11:16 PM.
William was standing on top of the roof of a nearby building and fed information to Minato via his [Persona] ability.
A figure stepped out of the shadows and the sound of heels hit the pavement. The sudden echo troubled William as he wanted to avoid any confrontations. He wasn't the most subtle of his siblings since his [Persona] was a bit flashy which may alarm Aleister or any other mages nearby. His lips then curved into a smirk when he sense who was behind him. Yet, it was still a predicament in a different sense to him.
"My dear elder sister, what is it that you seek of me?" William smiled without turning around, "I'm quite busy at the moment and my schedule is quite full. So I won't be seeing you at a family reunion. Too bad…"
"William," Margaret coldly began, "I do believe that you're stepping out of your boundaries."
William halted his powers and turn around to face her without losing his smile. He motioned his arms for a hug but Margaret kept a cold expression. He then lifted his hands in defeat but kept his smile.
"Did I now? All I did was give some suggestions, and our dear little guest decided to go with it. So then, where did I violate my restrictions?"
"I don't know what you're scheming but trying to speed up the journey is something I won't stand for," Margaret glare intensified, "Always resorting to trickery and looking for loopholes is what I dislike about you."
"Ha ha ouch," he laughed, "Now, now, you're acting as if I was up to something nasty. Anyhow, it would do no good if I wasn't clever. I am an envoy and explorer after all."
"You mean a negotiator who swindles others."
"Such harsh words my dear sister. I am merely performing my job. Whatever our guest wishes, I fulfill them. Of course, most of our guests who sign the contract will end up stopping a disaster that will befall on mankind. To prevent the destruction of humanity is our true goal as residents of the Velvet Room. It's that simple. "
"Being a part of one's journey and interfering are two different things, William. You can't just manipulate events as you please."
"I do have the proper authority from Master Igor, Margaret. I haven't done anything to abuse my position. Besides, if I'm gonna work, I might as well try to make it as an enjoyable as I can."
Margaret opened a [Persona Compendium] and the book resonated with power. Although Margaret kept a calm expression, she was furious with her little brother being impolite and improper. She created a close space and prepared for battle.
"It appears we can't see eye to eye. How unfortunate…" he stated.
She refused to speak and only steeled herself to release her fury upon her brother. He began to laugh and held a wide smile.
"Well, now, it's been awhile since we have last fought."
She gave no further response and resorted to beat the message into him. William began to twirl on one leg and continued to laugh.
"You're not talking. That's good. That's good! I'll probably misinterpret, distort, or even twist your words into nonsensical idioms!"
He halted to a stop and faced Margaret with a composed smile.
"Just because you create vibrations from your mouth doesn't mean you're communicating. The meaning of phrases will depend on how one defines them. So is it best to fight it out or use actions to get the message across? Can you comprehend my speech or is everything just irrational linguistics from my tongue? What does it all mean?!"
William pulled out a [Persona Compendium] and flipped the pages open. A figure emerged from his soul which was obscured by the shadows. It took the shape of a dragon with metallic wings and limbs. Letter's and symbols from all sorts of languages scrambled around the beast. They danced around wildly in the air and encircled the figure.
"To wrought the foremost verse is what we shall accomplish, right Jabberwocky?"
July 20th:
-Minato-
First thing in the morning and the start of my summer break, I ended up cooking for three in my dorm room. Touma-san sat across our strange guest while the nun eagerly waited for the meal she was about to receive. Although I'm perplexed as to why there was a nun at my neighbor's balcony's rail, in my mind, I kept recounting the events from last night.
I was outnumbered and my performance in combat was terrible. Despite the training from Akihiko, I'm still sore from fighting ITEM and kept remembering my mistakes. The best I could do was either delaying them or escaping. I only sighed at my upcoming journey and my endeavors that will come in the upcoming future…
"Sorry about this, Minato," Touma-san awkwardly apologizes.
"Ah, I was lost in thought, so there's no need to say sorry, Touma-san."
Another thought was William. When I check the Velvet Room last night, he wasn't there. There was explosions and static on the other line when we were talking which meant he was fighting someone. This made me wonder who could possibly be fighting him. I don't know how skilled William is at fighting but I certainly felt overwhelmed when facing Elizabeth. That is, if he's anything like her power-wise.
I shook my head and turn my focus back to my two guests, Touma-san and the girl. I cooked a simple western breakfast and placed all three plates on the small table.
"I apologized that this is all I could make. Due to a blackout, I had to make do with whatever I had left."
For some reason, Touma-san awkwardly laughed and muttered an apology while the nun was praying.
"I should be grateful that I managed to find kind people in this place," she slurped her drool.
We said our bit before eating and she dived right in.
After we finished eating, she was eating her third serving. There wasn't any sign of her stopping, so I decided to incite a conversation.
"I'm Minato Arisato," I introduced myself and motioned to my neighbor, "And this is Touma Kamijou."
"So," Touma-san began, "Why were you on my veranda?"
She held a gloomy expression but nonetheless answered his question.
"I was being chase. So I was jumping roof to roof and ended up falling there."
"…But this is the eighth floor," he said in bewilderment.
"I had no choice in the matter. Ah but more importantly, my name is Index.
"Huh, Index?" Touma-san mirrored back her reply skeptically, "That's sounds like an alias. I mean, why a table of contents?"
"My magical name is Dedicatus 545," she stated, "It means the dedicated lamb will protect the knowledge of the strong."
Touma-san was doubtful to her claims and wasn't sure if she was serious.
My reaction however wasn't as skeptical or lax but something along the lines of surprise and wariness. I wasn't in the mood to deal with this so early in the morning. It was clear as day she was part of the magic side that William warned me about. Yet, I do not feel any ill-intent from her and doubted she was my enemy that he spoke of. I continued to listen to their talk while cleaning the dishes.
"So why are you, Index-san, being chased?" Touma asked.
"They're probably after the 103 thousand grimoires that I possess."
"Grimoires…?"
"Yes, Book of The Dead, Eibon's Book, Lemegeton, etc. Those are examples of well known works."
I think I remember Edogawa-sensei mentioning something about those books…
"Ignoring their contents, it doesn't look like you have anything on you."
"I do have them! All 103 thousand of the grimoires," she stated firmly.
"All of them? Do you have a key to some kind of storage?"
She shook her head and so he sarcastically asked her if they were invisible to idiots.
"You can't see them, even if you are not an idiot. It would be pointless if everyone could look at them."
"So then, who's after you?"
"The magic side," she stated.
She was being chased by the magic side because she possessed some books?
If I remember correctly, Edogawa-sensei mentioned that grimoires where the fruits and labor of magical researchers. Magic was a branch of science and grimoires are kind of like case studies or notes. Of course I'm not sure if those concepts apply to this world. Or if he was sane to begin with since I remember drinking his concoctions…
"I'm sorry but magic does not exist."
While I was trying to make sense of everything, Touma-san however was more perplexed and dubious to her claim. Normally I would have agreed with him but a door appearing next to my closet and a guy living in it makes it hard to doubt the idea that magic exists…
"I have seen many supernatural abilities but magic isn't possible. In fact, psychic powers aren't a rare occurrence in this city. It's all science," he stated.
"Don't you find it strange you believe in psychic powers instead of magic?" she refuted.
"Then what is magic? Please show me an example."
"I don't have magic, so I can't use it."
"How am I supposed to know if magic exist or not if you can't prove it?"
"Magic does exist!"
There was something I was curious about, so I stopped their banter for the moment.
"Could you explain why no one can simply read one of these grimoires?"
"You believe her, Minato-san?"
I glanced at him and simply explained my reasoning.
"While she can't prove magic exist, it's not like we can disprove her claims. Still, what bothers me more is why they would chase Index-san."
My attention was back to Index-san.
"Are these books powerful tools or are they valuable?"
"Grimoires contains powerful spells but certain condition and skills are to be met. It's because I can't use magic is why I was trained to read and memorized them. If an unskilled magician were to read the books, there will dire consequences, such as losing one's life."
She held a grim and serious expression. Her voice was firm and dour that it would appear that she wasn't lying. Touma-san was still unsure what to make of the situation. He decided to break the silence with a sigh and give her the benefit of the doubt.
"Well, I guess there are some unexplainable powers in the world," he resigned.
Index-san was puzzled when Touma-san said that. So he explained how his right hand that negates anything that's supernatural to which she laughed, finding the very idea to be ludicrous. They ended up fighting and I felt like I won't be able to get any good information from her.
I tried to stop them but my phone vibrated. I recognized the number as Akihiko and debated whether to answer it or not. I chose the former. I excused myself and headed outside for privacy.
"Hey, this is Akihiko. Do you want to hang out today?"
It was odd that he was calling me out so early but there was no reason for me to decline…
"Okay, when and where are we meeting?"
I heard shouting and screaming in my dorm room but I chose to ignore it.
"Meet me at the family restaurant at one."
"NO—!"
There was a scream of shame coming out of my room followed by cries of pain. I chose to ignore it.
"Uh, did I hear a scream? What's going on? Is there trouble?"
"Sorry, there was a romantic-comedy on…" I impartially stated.
"Uh, Okay," he replied perplexedly, "I'll meet you at one then…"
I said my goodbyes and sighed.
Index-san opened the door and stopped when she saw me.
"Thank you for the delicious meal," she bowed in gratitude.
She then proceeded to tell Touma-san about good luck was a gift from above and told him that misfortune will follow him with a smile. He then kneeled down and said his catchphrase.
"If you don't have a place to stay…" Touma began.
"Thank you but I can't impose any more than I already have. As long as I wear this robe, they will find me."
"They…?"
"The ones who are after me can trace the magic in these clothes. They'll surely find this place. I can't put anyone else in danger, so long as I can find the church, I'll be okay."
"You can't expect me to leave you alone after hearing all of this—!"
Touma-san wanted to help her but she smiled sadly…
"Then, will you follow me through hell?"
He was speechless and couldn't say anything and so she proceeded to walk away.
"Well then," she smiled, "Later!"
"You can come back here when you're in trouble alright!?" he shouted, "Right Minato?"
He was determined to help in every way he can it seems. I only sighed and nodded.
"In that case I'll come when I'm hungry…!"
She was then chased away by cleaning robots and ran in panic.
Touma-san stared off into the distance and sighed. He continued to stare until a realization hit him.
"Crap, I'm gonna be late for my class!"
He panicked and headed into his dorm room to get ready for the day.
I was hesitant to leave Index-san alone given that it was obvious that she was in a tight spot but it looks like she has a plan of her own. I sighed and wished Index-san the best of luck in her journey to wherever it takes her.
When I walked into my room, I wanted to sleep badly and didn't want to do anything but I had made a promise. Not only that, but there is much work to be done. I lazily packed my equipment into a duffle bag and headed out.
11:06 AM.
It was still too early to meet with Akihiko, so I sat at a table outside under the nice shade. There was a lot for me to think about however, so I was unable to truly enjoy the peaceful scenery.
Although Index-san's situation bothers me a bit, I had my own problems to attend to. That is, my combat prowess leaves much to desire and I suck at parkour. Being outnumbered, having horrible support and multitude of unknown variables didn't help my circumstances much but I still need to work around those issues. There was also the question of what I should do for now.
The first objective is looking into the data I've obtained yesterday but William wants me to use a computer that's not owned by the Academy for whatever reason beyond me. Problem is, I don't know anyone who owns a laptop and I don't have the funds to buy one either. The vast collection of items that was at my, and the team's, disposal was all gone. I'm starting from scratch with little resources and I highly doubt that William would just give me them without compensation.
My options are to participate in an experiment or get a part time job to get money. Neither seems appealing because a lot of jobs are operated by machines and majority of scientist avoids me. Level 0's also don't get much money either…
I sighed and decided to change the subject to the Aragaki-Amada problem.
Ken and Shinjiro are missing. Basing on assumptions, the same events had occurred just like the other world or something similar since I can't be sure if that is the true cause. The best shot of finding clues are going to where Skill-Out members hangs out, going to the library to look up the incident, and/or probe for answers from Akihiko. I want to solve this as soon as I can.
However, STREGA was my main concern. I haven't heard any rumors regarding them and only found out about them just yesterday. Furthermore, ITEM was hunting them down. Following ITEM will likely lead me to STREGA but I highly doubt those girls and I would get along.
A heavy sigh escapes my mouth. There are a lot of problems to deal with and they keep piling up. I usually leave organizing and planning to Mitsuru. Fuuka handled analysis while everyone in SEES tried their best for the group and had a role to fill in. I was starting to lose myself to nostalgia but I had to clear my head in order to get through the day.
I guess I should start training or looking for a part time job. I got up and decided to leave but a voice called out to me.
"Oh, hello Arisato-san…"
It was Yukari and Fuuka…
"Hello, Takeba-san, Yamagishi-san."
I offered them a seat and asked if they were thirsty. I went off to the vending machines and got them drinks.
"Man, its boiling hot isn't?" Yukari stated, "Right Fuuka?"
"It sure is," Fuuka replied and turn towards my direction, "Is something the matter, Arisato-san?"
"…I didn't know you two were friends."
"What can I say," Yukari shrugged, "How we became friends sort of happened."
Both of them smiled at each other.
It was surprising that Fuuka and Yukari were friends. They weren't even acquainted until after the events of the rescue operation. It made me wonder how these two met. Nonetheless, it reminded me of old times and I fought the urge to smile.
"If anything," she continued, "I'm more surprised that you know Fuuka, Arisato-kun. I mean, the only people I see you with are Junpei or Kamijou-san."
"I just happened to met her when I accidentally bumped into her," I answered plainly.
"I've been curious about something, Arisato-san," said Fuuka.
"What is it?"
She looked uncomfortable in asking her question but her curiosity won in the end.
"…You're a Level 0 right?"
"Yes, I am," I stated disinterestedly.
"But despite that you're also top of the grade. I was wondering why you chose to become an esper rather than a researcher."
"She raises a good point, Arisato-kun. Our school isn't exactly known to be the greatest out there."
"…There was no reason."
Giving it some thought, there was no reason why I chose the school I attended. It wouldn't have mattered if I had chosen to become an esper or not. Before I discovered that I was Makoto Yuuki, I didn't care where I would go since it would've been the same. I would go to school and eventually move somewhere else. I couldn't make lasting bonds or feel attached to anything in particular.
It was rinse and repeat.
I didn't desire much and I only live for the sake of living. It's a little different now but, I don't really have a reason.
"What do you mean by that," Yukari asked while perplexed.
"There was no particular reason why I picked our school over the others," I answered truthfully, "Any other school would've been fine with me and I could care less about reaching Level 5."
I was never interested in becoming Level 5. It seemed like too much work and I wanted to live a simple life. Of course, [Persona] isn't categorized as either magic or esper according to William, so there's that as well.
Yukari was giving me a look of disapproval while Fuuka was a bit uncomfortable at my response. I lift one finger and stopped Yukari from retorting.
"Still, I'm a bit glad."
"About what?" they both asked.
"That I was able to meet you—," I smiled while I accidentally bit my tongue.
As I looked up, they both blushed a bit at the sudden declaration and didn't notice that I messed up. I continued nonetheless.
"I'm glad that I was able to meet everyone in Class 1-7 and many more different people in this city. Sure I don't have a reason for becoming an esper but being able to spend time with everyone is truly a blessing..."
Even if these people are not the ones that I knew from when I was Makoto, I get the feeling that their souls are just the same. Dare I say it, that this is fate at work?
"I can't believe you could say such embarrassing things Arisato-kun," Yukari sighed heavily while chiding me, "Don't do that again!"
"I didn't think you were that forward, Arisato-san…"
"I was only being honest."
"I think you're way to blunt for your own good," Yukari retorted, "Still, it's nice that you're opening up a bit."
I only shrugged at her response. The girls only giggled amongst themselves much to my confusion.
"Is there any other questions, Yamagishi-san?"
"If you don't mind answering, I heard that you have strange powers that are similar to Kamijou-san."
"My ability allows me to reduce damage from anything. Just think of me having a layer of armor protecting me."
At first, I've received a lot of attention due to the System Scans failing and prompt a lot of scientist to investigate. However, none of them could prove how it works in the end. It provides very little data for research and considered impractical due to only protecting myself. It was then labeled as Level 0 for being unknown in nature.
William didn't really go into explaining it. He only stated it might have been the result of what Elizabeth did to revive my soul.
Yukari didn't say anything since she and I already had this conversation about our ability.
"So if I hit you," she began, "You wouldn't get hurt?"
"I wouldn't know. [Invalid Entry] could fail if I'm not careful but most of the time, I would feel a nudge or a slit jab when I get hit. It can only block a certain amount of threshold of damage."
I sighed and wanted to go find a computer. I then remembered something crucial and I began to formulate my query carefully…
"Yamagishi-san…"
"What is it, Arisato-san?"
"Do you know anyone who owns a laptop?"
If I remember correctly, Fuuka had her own laptop and was interested in mechanics.
"Actually, I have my laptop in my bag…"
"Do you need use a computer? Couldn't you go and borrow one at the library?" Yukari asked.
"…An acquaintance wanted me to look over this data but he wanted me to use a personal computer that's not owned by the Academy's. I think he's a bit paranoid or something."
While I told them a somewhat true story, I placed the stolen data that I had acquired.
"Who is this acquaintance of yours?" she asked.
"Well, he's the brother of an old friend of mine before I moved here."
Yukari was skeptical for some odd reason but she accepted my explanations.
"So may I use it, Yamagishi-san?"
"Well, so long as you don't mess with anything in my computer…"
She reluctantly handed me her laptop and I plugged the data in. Both of them were looking over my shoulders to see what was being displayed on the screen. Histograms, letters, numbers, graphs, and all sorts of statistics appeared on the monitor. It was a case study that was conducted a long time ago but it was worded strangely and there were no title or abstract. Although it didn't make sense at first, Thoth forced his way forward in my psyche and analyzed the data for me. It was then that I regretted asking Yukari and Fuuka to let me use the laptop…
"Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, calcium, phosphorus…? Huh, what's with these ingredients? Is this some sort of case study?" Yukari asked rhetorically, "Do you understand it, Fuuka?"
"Not really, the measurements are somewhat strange. It's almost kind of vague in a way. Do you understand it, Arisato-san?"
I didn't answer, instead I scroll down and looked into the bibliography and who conducted this experiment. I unplugged the USB and shut the computer off immediately. The girls looked confuse and worry for my odd behavior but I didn't want them to get involved.
"Takeba-san, Yamagishi-san…" I began in a neutral tone.
"What is it, Arisato-kun…?" Yukari asked uncomfortably.
"Are you okay, Arisato-san?" Fuuka asked in fret.
"…Can you forget what you saw on the computer screen…?"
"Huh, what's going on, Arisato-kun? You're acting odder than usual…"
"…I apologize for leaving but I need to confirm something with a professional regarding this data. If what's on this data is true, then it requires further investigation…"
"…Can you at least tell us what the document was saying?" Fuuka insisted.
"No," I immediately rejected.
Both of them cringed at the sudden refusal which made me felt terrible but I really did not want them to get involve.
"I'm sorry…"
"…Arisato-kun, what the hell is going on?" Yukari scolded, "Why can't you tell us?"
"…I have an idea what the data is talking about but I need to clear all misunderstandings. Otherwise, I might be jumping to conclusions which will cause needless panic. Please, just for now, forget that you saw anything."
I pleaded to the best of my ability. They were hesitant but they finally relented.
"Alright, we promise but if it turns out to be nothing then promise to tell us, okay, Arisato-kun?"
"Understood… I must hurry now to see Akihiko-Senpai."
"Akihiko-Senpai…?"
"Someone I know, later…"
I left but I really hoped that my speculation was dead wrong. The names of the researchers who conducted these experiments were Kouetsu Kirijou and Shuji Ikutsuki…
1:12 PM.
As I waited in the restaurant, I began to create an overview of my findings.
The Kirijou group funded and researched on human experimentations. One of them was creating a time-altering esper while another was to create an artificial esper by using a special serum. There were many other experiments as well.
To get accurate data, a sample size of fifty or more people who participated in an experiment is required. Yet, many of the experiments weren't a success which meant a lot of people had died or worse…
I went over what I know is true so far. STREGA existed as a result of the Kirijou Group's experiments in the other world which might be the same for this one. Kouetsu Kirijou and Ikutsuki are alive. ITEM is known to hunt those who were gaining too much influence according to William. With this information in mind, I came to the conclusion that STREGA is possibly working for the Kirijou Group and ITEM is hunting them down.
However, I need some sort of confirmation but I need to talk to Senpai…
He finally showed up and began talking about mostly about exercised. We ordered some lunch and had a normal conversation but I decided to ask straight out instead of being subtle about it.
"…Akihiko-Senpai…"
"How many times do you I have to tell you, just call me Akihiko…"
"Do you know a group called STREGA?"
His smile faded and his eyes turn into a glare. He came in closer and asked me in a low whisper.
"Where did you hear that name from?"
"…I heard about them from a group called ITEM," I answered casually.
"ITEM?!"
Akihiko shouted and stood right up from his seat. He then realized that everyone in the restaurant was staring at him. He bowed and apologized to the waitresses but he kept glaring in my direction. As he took his seat, he closed his eyes and rubbed the back of his neck.
"ITEM you say?" Akihiko sighed and scratched the back of his head.
He was contemplating whether or not to answer my initial question and he was trying to stay calm. He finally composed himself and responded.
"We'll go to Judgment 177 Branch office for more details. Now's not a good place for… confidential information."
2:32 PM.
Once we paid for our lunch, we headed to one of the many Judgment Branch offices. The building was smaller compared to the skyscrapers next to it but it looked similar to Iwatodai Dormitories. I felt a little at home…
Akihiko was greeted by a girl with glasses working behind a computer.
"Hello Akihiko-san, I thought you're off duty for today?"
"Hello Mii-san, do you know where everyone is?"
"Some members are patrolling while others are enjoying their day off. Kuroko is investigating the Level Upper case however," she glanced at me, "Who is this?"
"He's a friend of mine…"
"Minato Arisato, it's nice to meet you," I bowed politely.
"I'm Mii Konori, likewise…"
"Mii-san, I'm going to the rooftop to discuss a case with Minato here."
"A case…?"
"It's one I've been working on for awhile…" he gave a sober look.
She only nodded in understanding and gave a sad smile.
We made our way to roof on the building. Akihiko was thinking over things for a moment and finally spoke.
"About a year ago," Akihiko began, "Shinji was part of Judgment back then, and we were on a case together. We were investigating missing children from [Child Error], but we encountered a strange group called STREGA."
He paused for the moment to let me take in his story.
"At the time, we ended up fighting and one of them managed to stick a strange syringe into Shinji. Shinji's powers went out of control and put him in a berserk rage. He attacked everyone in sight and in the crossfire, a woman with her child…"
Akihiko didn't say anything for the moment but it was obvious that this wasn't a pleasant memory for him. Nonetheless, he continued…
"…He went back to normal and he realized what he had done. He then resigned from Judgment and disappeared for awhile but I found him with the help of Wataru-san. I tried to get Shinji to join again but he refused everytime. Although he quitted Judgment, he still helps out by giving me information on the dark side of [Academy City]. He doesn't show it but he keeps blaming himself, even though it wasn't his fault…"
Akihiko's fist clenched. I watched him for a moment and asked.
"Why are you telling me all this…?" I asked.
He looked at me and gave my question some thought.
"I don't know. I get the feeling that I can trust you, you know?"
I fought another urged to smile and I decided to tell him about the data.
"…I might have some information on them," I stated.
"What," he said in surprise.
I handed him the portable USB.
"I'm not a hundred percent sure but I believe that the Kirijou Group had something to do with STREGA…"
"How do you figure?"
"…I managed to fight off ITEM when they were hunting STREGA down. As you know, ITEM will only go after anyone that gains too much power."
"You fought them…?"
"It was more like me trying to escape. It's difficult to fight on your own when you're up against high level espers."
"Not surprising but to think you faced off the fourth strongest. You might be more reckless than me."
"…You'll need an expert to look over the data but I'm fairly certain it'll help."
"Don't worry, I know who to go to. He's a bit odd but he's reliable…" he replied, "Thanks…"
"For what…?"
"I've been stuck on this case for a long time. With this, we might be able to end this."
"Don't mention it… We're friends after all…"
"It's getting late. I'll drop by at the lab to give it to Edogawa-sensei…."
Eh—?!
"Something wrong…?"
"No, nothing's wrong…"
"Alright then, see ya."
It was strange that there were so many familiar faces and names in this city. I wondered if I'll ever meet anyone who was a part of my Social Links. I have many questions for them but I haven't met anyone aside from some of the members of SEES. Who will I meet next, and will I get along with them? I haven't run into a problem yet. I guess whatever comes my way, I'll deal with it somehow.
Today was a bit stressful. I met a nun from the magic side, met up with Yukari and Fuuka, and founded some info on the Kirijou Group. However, I felt like things were finally coming together. Hopefully, I can resolve everything.
I decided to call up Junpei to hang out and headed for the arcades…
5:23 PM.
Oddly, it was getting darker and colder outside. I put on my blue hooded jacket and took a short-cut through the alleyway. I then heard a clicking sound and felt something behind my back…
"You have something that belongs to the Kirijou Group. Return it at once…"
It was a voice of a girl but it was a voice I was all too familiar with. It was painful to hear that voice at this moment because even though in the past it was mechanical, there was warmth to it. Right now though, it was cold and full of contempt…
It was disheartening…
"What can I do for you, Aegis?"
-Unknown Time, Unknown Location-
-Third Perspective-
Theodore walked into a deserted factory and rolled up his sleeves. He inspected the destruction that had taken place and then proceeded while shaking his head. His feet halted to a stop when he gaze the large pile of debris. He sighed and proceeded to dig the debris and when he removed the final piece, a groan echoed out.
William's suit was tattered and worn from a long battle. He was sitting on the wreckage as if he was sitting in a comfortable chair.
"… Hello Theo, do know where my fedora is? I feel naked without it."
His younger brother only sighed and picked up a worn out hat. He then handed it to William, who stood up and perched it on his head.
"I better go back and wash up. I got a guest to attend to."
"Brother," Theodore said in a tired tone, "Although I don't usually agree with your… methods, but why was Margaret so angry about? Why did you two fight it out?"
"Fight it out? More like she beat the living crap out of me," he chuckled.
"I wish you were less flamboyant but that's never going to change," Theodore sighed with a smile.
"Anyways, she was angry with me because I tried to speed up the events…"
"Brother, isn't it more important that our guest experience the journey?"
"I'm not dealing with the usual guest, Theodore and I don't have the luxury of that. If I don't hurry things up then he may not be prepared for the fight ahead of him…"
"What do you mean?"
"Oh how I wish I could give him the answers," William pouted but then smiled once more, "If Othinus finds out that our little guest can summoned Odin… Well, that would be bad. Not only that, but he'll learn a harsh truth…"
"A harsh truth…?"
William smiled but it was more sober and desolated. He looked out a broken, dirty window and gaze at the luminous stars…
"Tell me, Theodore," he said, "Even if they have the same souls and the same faces but they live completely different lives than the ones from your memories, are they truly the person you know? Or are they different people to begin with? Will they even be your ally?"
Theodore didn't answer the question but only gaze the stars with his brother.
"It seems like our guest will find out the truth…"
To Be Continued…
Author's Notes: Greetings everyone, it's been awhile hasn't it? It took me longer than expected to post the story but I ended up editing and contemplating on which scenes to use. I also went back and edited some old chapters for grammatical issues and mistakes. I might have missed a few however so please forgive me on that. Thank you for replying to my questions and I decided to not mess too much with Touma's story-line. Minato will appear helping Touma but just as a minor character. As for other possible team ups... I'll leave that to your imaginations since there are a lot of mix responses. I didn't expect to get that many response to William's voice but there seems to be a lot of different opinions regarding that. Also to answer a random question, it was Boss from Catherine. By the way, I forgot to mention this but in case no one got it, I borrowed some elements from Devil Survivor.
Question Time!
1: Who do you want Minato to face/fight against?
2: Favorite pairings for either series?
3: Speculations on Aleister's plans since it hasn't been revealed yet?
4: Stupid but fun question! Should he get a loli, since it seems all main characters in the [A Certain] series do get one?
Thank you for reading...