Chapter 2 Tartarus

Tartarus Makoto stirred from his sleep. He sat up, his mind still hazy, to find a light-chestnut haired girl dozing off next to him. The girl stirred awake from his movement and popped awake when she saw him sitting up. Y-you re awake! She almost looked to be on the verge of tears. How do you feel?

Makoto Where am I?

Makoto asked holding his head, still a little dizzy from his dream.

Thank goodness. You finally came to... How much sleep do you need? It s been a whole week!

Yukari smiled a genuine smile. She was happy.

Kotoha Glad to know he was awake to the point she could joke about it.

Yukari I was so worried about you...

Yukari leaned in close as she reached for his hand. Makoto could feel his heartbeat quickening.

Yukari o-oh yeah, this is Tatsumi Memorial Hospital. It s just a short walk from the station.

Kotoha It good see you alright

Kotoha By away why are you here

Seriously? Yukari s jaw dropped. You two saved my LIFE! I couldn t just leave to here!

The doctor couldn't find anything wrong with you. He said you were just exhausted... But, you kept sleeping and sleeping. You know how worried I was? Yukari s voice was shaking again. She looked down at her hand that was tightly balled into a fist on her lap. I'm sorry I couldn't do anything...I was supposed to protect you

Makoto Don't worry about

Yukari huh

Makoto I wasn't really relied on you

Yukari huh jeez you know how hurt a girl feeling

Yukari But, your power... It was amazing. Yukari smiled as she recounted the incident, how they had battled valiantly against an unknown enemy.

Kotoha by away What were those things?

Yukari You mean the Shadows? They're what we're fighting against. And the power you used... We call it Persona. They remembered those words, from the man in their dreams. We'll explain everything later. I'm sorry I didn't tell you before...I, uh... Yukari had begun to fumble over her words. She seemed nervous. I wanted to tell you that... I'm sorta like you.

Kotoha like us

Yukari let out a heavy sigh. My dad died in an accident when I was little... And my mom and I aren't exactly on good terms.

Kotoha Oh

Yukari You're all alone too, right?

To be honest, I already know about your guy s past... Okay that was weird. But, it didn't seem fair, so I wanted you to know about mine... Yukari let out another sigh. They could tell that whatever it was pained her. It was back in '99...There was a big explosion in the area. Supposedly, my dad died in the blast, but nobody really knows what happened... He was working in a lab run by the Kirijo Group. Suddenly her expression shifted from sorrow to something stern and cold, completely unlike the Yukari they were used to till now. So, I'm hoping that if I stick around long enough, I'll find out something. That's why I'm going to Gekkoukan High, and why I was there when this happened to you. A frown appeared on her face. Of course, I panicked and wasn't much help...It was my first time fighting them, too. I'm sorry... You wouldn't be

Kotoha don blame yourself i was kinda scare too

A hint of red tugged at Yukari s cheeks. R-really? Still...

She pulled away from them as she stood. And here I am telling you all this the minute you wake up. Her cheeks continued to burn red.

While I was waiting, I thought to myself, I've been hiding so many things from them and him especially... As soon as he wake up, I'll tell them the truth. Yukari smiled and gave them both a small nod. So, thanks for listening. I've been wanting to share that story with someone for a long time. . Alright, I'm gonna get going. I'll let the others know you woke up. Take it easy, okay? Then she was gone.

A hint of red tugged at Yukari s cheeks. R-really? Still... She pulled away from them as she stood. And here I am telling you all this the minute you wake up. Her cheeks continued to burn red. While I was waiting, I thought to myself, I've been hiding so many things from them... As soon as they wake up, I'll tell them the truth. Yukari smiled and gave them both a small nod. So, thanks for listening. I've been wanting to share that story with someone for a long time. She gave them both a quick hug. Alright, I'm gonna get going. I'll let the others know you woke up. Take it easy, okay? Then she was gone. Well actually no. Yukari poked her head in once more. Be good patients! And don't hesitate to call the nurse. I'm sure she'll take good care of you. She gave them a wink, one last wave and she was gone

Kotoha Hey maybe ask you but do you like Yukari

Makoto Nope I not interest in her

Kotoha I thought so you not the kind of guy who take such thing serious

[4/18/09]

That s good. Yukari let out a relieved sigh. Sorry to add to your worries but, Ikutsuki-san wants to talk to you today. Come to the 4th floor of the dorm okay. Don t forget. Then she was gone. She seemed awfully mysterious about it.

The first day back at school was looking to be a very good one.

At least, that's what Makoto and Kotoha thought when they stepped off the light rail. Maybe it was due to prolonged absence. But Gekkoukan looked more beautiful than ever, gleaming in the April sun.

The day passed without much cause for concern. Then came the time of the big meeting.

Junpei "Yo!" he said indignantly. "Where the hell've you two been?"

Kotoha "In the hospital

"In the hospital?" he repeated, turning his gaze to the heavens. "You mean you were both in the hospital, and neither of you thought to drop your ol' pal Junpei a line? I was worried sick about you two!"

Kotoha "Sorry, Junpei

Kotoha I didn't realize you cared so much!"

Junpei "Well, 'course I care!"

. "I'm your buddy, aren't I?

Makoto Hey I don't remember you become my buddy

Junpei Come on don,t be like that

Anyway," he added smugly, lowering his voice, "there's something I gotta tell ya."

Reika Junpei you suppose not tell the them anything yet

Junpei bit his lower lip, grinning mischievously. "Oh yeah right I'm not s'posed to say anything! Sorry, bros!"

And he burst into a fit of giggles. At that moment, Yukari came up alongside them, rolling her eyes.

"Someone's full of energy today," she said crabbily. "I could hear you from all the way over there."

"Hey, Yuka-tan!" said Junpei, still giggling. "

You three live in the same dorm, but you came separately today. Why's that, hm?

Reika Are you afraid of starting more rumors?"

"No," said Yukari flatly. "I just left a little late, that's all. And anyway, I came over here because I need to talk to them. In private. So buh-bye, Junpei."

Junpei "Alright, alright," said Junpei. And he walked away, the sound of his giggles growing fainter and fainter with each step he took.

Kotoha "What's with him?"

Kotoha He seems awfully giddy today."

Makoto Who know

There you are! I'm glad that you're okay. The glasses wearing man from before waved them into the large room that was their command center and ushered the two of them to sit, everyone else was already gathered. The reason I asked you here is because I needed to talk to you. His features appeared utterly serious before he broke character. Before that. I believe I mentioned them earlier, but this is Akihiko Chiaki and Natsumi. He gestured to the white haired male in the room.

Akihiko How ya doin? Akihiko replied with a winning smile and a small salute.

Chiaki Nice to meet ya

Natsumi Please to meet you

Akihiko, huh? Hamuko in a near silent lull as her eyes flicked across him. It went almost completely unnoticed. Her brother knew her too well though.

Let me start off by asking you this... Ikutsuki wore his serious expression again. Would you believe me if I said that a day consist of more than 24 hours? The two gave a puzzled expression that marked for a unified no .

Mitsuru chuckled as she sat her tear cup down. I m not surprised by your reaction. Of course not. The very concept was insane. However, you ve already experienced the truth firsthand. ...What? Do you remember the night you came here? You had to have noticed the signs... The streetlights went out... Nothing was working... There were coffins everywhere... Didn't it feel like you were in a different time...?

Kotoha Kotoha recalled the moment she spoke of. I remembered it vividly. The phone suddenly just died down. The streets fell silent Not to mention the world was swallowed in an eerie glow.

Mitsuru Yes That's the Dark Hour-a time period hidden between one day and the next.

Hidden? Kotoha pondered attempting to wrap his head around this.

I guess it's more like something people aren't aware of. Normal people? So certain people can t experience the Dark Hour? But, the Dark Hour does exist. It occurs each night, at midnight. It ll happen tonight, and every night to come.

Chiaki Normal people don t really realize it .. Since they re sleeping inside their coffins.

Akihiko Yeah he right about that But, that s not what makes the Dark Hour so interesting.

Akihiko You saw those creatures.

. Hamuko on the other hand shivered, but not because of the talk of shadows.

Akihiko We call them Shadows.

Akihiko They only appear during the Dark Hour, and attack anyone not in a coffin.

Akihiko It's our job to defeat them. Sounds exciting, huh? His eyes seemed to gleam as he talked about combat.

Chiaki Once you agree to join you will do something very excited

Akihiko and Chiaki! Mitsuru sounded annoyed. Why are you two always like that? You two just got hurt the other day! She seemed to berate him.

Kotoha So that s how it is.

Now, now. They do their work well. The chairman tried to quiet the riot between them before he turned his attention back to the to both Makoto and Kotoha. Long story short, we're the Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad-SEES for short. On paper, we're classified as a school club. But in reality, this group is dedicated to defeating the Shadows. Mitsuru is the leader. I'm the club advisor.

Kotoha . sounded like undercover spies.

Mitsuru A Shadow feeds on the mind of its prey; the victim becomes a living corpse. Mitsuru explained. The idea unsettled them both. They're responsible for most of the incidents on the news, if not all of them.

So how do you/we fight them? Kotoha decided to cut to the chase.

Although rare, there are those who can function during the Dark Hour. The chairman explained. Some may even awaken to a power that enables them to fight the Shadows. That's "Persona"-the power you used the other night. The memory was still fresh in their mind, though they knew that they d never forget. The Shadows can only be defeated by Persona-users. Which means, it's all up to you guys.

Makoto I see.

Well, yes! Ikutsuki gave a small smile. I m glad you re quick to understand.

What he's trying to say is, we want you to join us. Mitsuru opened a briefcase on the table to reveal two guns like the ones from before as well as two red SEES badges. We've prepared an Evoker for the both of you. We'd like you to lend us your strength.

Makoto and Kotoha . Alright.

Yukari, who had remained silent until now let out a sigh of relief. Thank goodness. I was afraid you'd say no.

Ikutsuki smiled. Thank you so much. I m really glad. Everyone seemed so relieved at their answer. I almost forgot, about your room assignment. Why don t you just stay here, in your current room? I don t know what the hold up is, but I guess it worked out in the end. The chairman grinned.

Hold up? Yukari looked puzzled. But wasn t that- The other three gave her a look. Nevermind. It doesn t matter anymore. He did plan this!

Night fell and with it the Dark Hour. Makoto and Kotoha would be visited again. But not by Igor, the boy from before would appear before them again, somehow simultaneously in their respective rooms. Hi, how are you? The boy smiled as he sat at the foot of Makoto s bed.

You How did you get in here? Makoto

I m always with you...

All way with me

The boy smiled again. Soon, the end will come. I remembered, so I thought I should tell you.

The end? The thought rolled off Makoto s tongue. What is the end ?

The end of everything. The mysterious boy said flatly. But to be honest, I don't really know what it is.

Makoto frowned. Some help that was. But the end of everything sounded like a problem.

Looks like you ve awakened to your power...and an unusual power it is. Was he talking about their Personas?

It may prove to be your salvation, depending on where you end up. The boy smiled and faded away, startling

, but he quickly reappeared in the center of the room. Do you remember when we first met? I expect you to honor your commitment. I'll be watching you, even if you forget about me... Okay then, see you later. The boy disappeared but this time for good it seemed.

Makoto ...

Makoto Who was that kid

By the time everything had been set up just the way they wanted it the sun had already fallen and with it dusk had come.

Hey, it's me. Yukari could be heard shouting from downstairs. Can you two come down here?

With exasperated sighs the two hobbled down the stairs, already drained from their day of work. They found Akihiko and Chiaki waiting along with Yukari.

...Okay, they re here now. So, what's this all about? Yukari turned her attention to the white haired senior.

Akihiko gave his same confident smirk. There's someone I want to introduce...Hey, hurry up. He shouted as he threw open the doors to the dorm.

Familiar Voice Hold your horses...

A voice called from within the shroud of night. A small trolley stacked high with suitcases was slowly wheeled in.

Familiar Voice This is freakin' heavy. A boy in a baseball cap wiped the sweat from his brow.

Familiar Man this is tiring bring all of our stuff here

J-Junpei and Reika!? Yukari exclaimed, instantly recognizing her classmate before turning to face Akihiko. ...Why is they here!? Wait, don't tell me- A look of utter horror spread across the brunettes face.

Akihiko This is Junpei Iori and Reika Tsuchikawa from Class 2-F. They'll be staying here as of today. Ahikiko said calmly as he introduced the new dorm resident and apparently the newest member of SEES.

Junpei Wazzup?

Reika Yo Makoto Kotoha and Yukari

They're staying HERE!? You've gotta be kidding me!

Yukari began to pace back and forth as she massaged her temples. This couldn t be happening. It was happening. It was her worst nightmare. She didn t have to just go to school with Junpei, she had to live with Junpei.

Chiaki and I bumped into them the other night. Akihiko explained. They has the potential, but they just awakened to it recently...I told them about us, and they agreed to help.

Yukari You two have the potential!? For real!? Yup. Definitely Yukari s worse nightmare.

Junpei He found me cryin' like a baby at the convenience store, surrounded by a bunch of coffins.

Makoto You got lost

Junpei Oh shut up

Reika Yeah I was pretty shock to see a Buch of coffin appear and blood everywhere

Junpei I don't remember much, but... man, that's embarrassing!

Junpei He said that's, ya know, completely normal... in the beginning. Like, bein' confused and not remembering anything. Did ya guys know that?

Kotoha Nope.

Makoto Didn t happen to us.

Junpei Big deal. It happens to everyone else. Junpei said with a roll of his eyes.

Junpei I was shocked to find out about you guys.

Junpei I had no idea. I'm glad I'm not the only one.

Junpei It could get kinda lonely, ya know.

Reika Yeah I feel the same way

Junpei I bet you're stoked too, right!? Havin' me and Reika join..

A wide grin spread across Junpei s face.

Reika You won't mind right Yukari

Uh, y-yeah... Yukari said trying her best to sound welcoming.

Reika Great

Reika How about you Makoto

Makoto Uh i don,t really care

Reika Oh come on don't give me that attitude

Akihiko broke the tension as he drove his fist into his palm with an echoing smack. Well, enough with the introductions. I think we're about ready... A small shiver slipped down Hamuko s spine as she took in his cool atmosphere.

Junpei Ooh, we're gonna go do something? Sweetness! Junpei hopped arounded excitedly.

Akihiko With this many people, we can start exploring that place.

Chiaki Yeah you right

Chiaki We haven't got the chance to explore it though

Yukari You mean... Tartarus...? Yukari spoke softly, an air of fear hung over her words.

Junpei Tartarus...? What's that? ...Sounds like toothpaste. Junpei spoke near seriously, breaking the level of tension.

Reika What is Tartrus

Chiaki We believe we can find the reason for the Dark Hour there. Trying to clear the air of confusion.

Yukari I hope so... Yukari sighed.

Akihiko The Chairman will give us the details tomorrow night, so be ready. With those words Akihiko walked away from his underclassman. Get some rest.

Chiaki Well take care yourself

School Mitsuru Can I have a minute? A familiar voice called. They knew who it was immediately.

Mitsuru Their red haired president stood before them with arms crossed, the picture of elegance. Come to the lounge when you get back to the dorm. I have something to tell everyone.

Junpei Oh, are we having that talk? Junpei asked, as smirk crossing his face.

Mitsuru I'll save the details for later. See you there. Without another word she turned on her heels and walked away.

Junpei Wow, she didn't waste any time leaving... Junpei rolled his eyes, irritated that his waiting would only be prolonged.

She's probably busy with things like Student Council, Yukari clicked her tongue. Unlike us.

Kotoha Student Council

Junpei Whoa, Yuka-tan! Do I sense some hostility?

Reika Hey is something bothering you about Mitsuru senpai

Yukari Well, it's not that I don't like her... She's just...

Everyone s gaze turned on Yukari eagerly awaiting her explanation.

Reika Oh what is it then

Yukari It s nothing!

Yukari Will you guys quit staring?!

Reika Oh how cute Yukari

Yukari Will you stop?

Yukari stamped her foot before storming off, a red tint in her cheeks.

But now, there was no longer time for their school day antics. Evening had fallen and they were all requested to assemble in the control room.

Okay, everybody's here. I'd like your undivided attention. Ikutsuki began, calling the meeting to order. For a long time, Mitsuru Akihiko Chiaki and Natsumi were the only Persona-users we had. But, that number recently jumped to Nine. Therefore... He took a deep breath as he took in everyone s expressions. Some confused, some nervous, even excited and other completely blank. Starting tonight at 12:00AM, I'd like to commence the exploration of Tartarus.

Sorry... Junpei cut him off as he raised his hand.

I asked this yesterday, but what's this Tartarus thing again?

Yukari You haven't seen it, Junpei? Yukari asked sounded rather surprised. Junpei could only shake his head.

Reika How about you Yukari had you see this Tartarus thing

Yukari Well this is the first time to see too

Ikutsuki It's no surprise...since it only appears during the Dark Hour. Ikutsuki reassured Jupei.

Junpei and Reika The Dark Hour...?

Akihiko Just like the Shadows... Akihiko took his turn to explain.

Akihiko Interesting, huh? And it's the perfect place for us to train.

Chiaki Well You can think of it as a Shadow nest.

What about you, Mr. Chairman? Mitsuru asked.

I'll stay here. As you know, I can't summon a Persona... Ikutsuki said as he put his hands up defensively. He would be useless on a battlefield with shadows.

With a mix of excitement and nerve hovering over them they made their late night trek to the mysterious Tartarus. They passed by many familiar sights as they journeyed across town, yet there was no sight of the ominous tower. Instead they found themselves at a rather familiar location.

This is is? THIS is the place? Why HERE? Junpei s confusion only persisted as they found themselves standing before Gekkoukan s school gates.

Just wait a few minutes... It's almost midnight. Akihiko assured. Junpei shrugged but like everyone he turned his attention to his watch.

Time slowly ticked downward until midnight struck and time became no more. The dark hour had come with its usual eerie green glow, putrid puddles of blood and haunting yellow moon that hung just over head. But this time something else was brought with the dark hour. What was Gekkou high had begun to twist and turn. The building was transfixed into this distorted version of itself as it reached for the sky.

The trio that was unfamiliar with the structure swallowed hard. Maybe that had too hastily agreed to this SEES thing.

Mitsuru This is Tartarus-the labyrinth that reveals itself during the Dark Hour. Mitsuru retained her elegant demeanor as they entered the towers doors.

Junpei Labyrinth...? Junpei was far from having an easy time taking what he just saw in. What are you talking about!? What happened to our school!?

Even the inside of the structure was different. It didn t even remotely resemble the school they once knew.

Mitsuru Once the Dark Hour passes, everything returns to normal. Mitsuru continued on.

Junpei This is the nest you were talking about!? But, why!? Why'd our school turn into a giant tower!? Junpei had so many questions. He took to looking to Akihiko who simply shrugged. Junpei turned his gaze back to Mitsuru who turned her eyes downward. You don't know, either?

Mitsuru ...No. That was a first. For a brief moment they could sense what seemed like defeat in Mitsuru s voice.

Yukari I'm sure it's complicated. Who cares anyway? It's not like it would change our minds about fighting. Yukari spoke drawing their attention to the task at hand, training.

Akihiko Well, maybe now we'll find out. Mitsuru and I have only gone in to take a peek; this will be our first time exploring it. That comment raised a brow among the untrained SEES recruits, even Akihiko hadn t actually fought the shadows that lurked in the tower. Exciting, isn't it? There has to be some sort of clue in here about the Dark Hour... The senior boy seemed positively giddy over the idea.

Mitsuru Akihiko. I respect your enthusiasm, but you won't be accompanying us today. Mitsuru patted her fellow classman on the shoulder to comfort the saddened boxer.

Akihiko I know... You don't have to remind me. The boxer let out a sigh. Defeat was heavy in his eyes. Hamuko pouted. She wanted to reach out and hug him as if he was some sort of lost puppy.

The newer members of SEES faced the ominous tower and tried to push suppress every nerve that told them to turn around. They swallowed the lumps in the throats, resolved themselves and marched forward.

Junpei Whoa... It's just as cool on the inside... Junpei spoke with wonder as he dashed about the lobby of the tower.

But, it sure is creepy Yukari instead nervously kept to herself, choosing to eye everything from afar.

Reika Man I getting shiver behind my spine

Mitsuru This is only the entrance. Mitsuru explained before pointing to the large staircase in the center of the room. The labyrinth lies beyond the doorway at the top of the stairs.

Akihiko First, we'll have the five of you get a feel for this place. Akihiko smiled as he took his place next to Mitsuru. Why don't you go have a look around?

What!? By ourselves!? Yukari was taken aback. She could feel a sweat breaking out across her skin. It was taking everything she had to not run out right now.

Mitsuru We're not asking you to go very far, Mitsuru explained, and I'll be feeding you information from here.

Alright! Just point me at those shadows and I ll take care of them! Hamuko swung her spear through the air violently before briefly breaking to recover her breath.

So, you two didn't plan on coming in the first place? Junpei asked, turning their attention back to the seniors.

Akihiko nodded. That's right. We're also going to appoint a leader to make any necessary decisions.

For real? ...One of us? Junpei began to eagerly jump around and motion to himself. It was like watching a grade-schooler trying to get their teachers attention. Oh! Oh! Me me me! Pick me!

Reika Get real there no way you get pick

Yukari and Mitsuru let out a sigh at the antic, before exchanging a quick embarrassed glance.

Akihiko Um You're in charge. Makoto

Akihiko As for you Kotoha you be the vice leader

Kotoha Vice leader

Junpei What?! They both said in unison.

Why him!? He don t look anything like a leaders!

Reika By away what a vice leader support the main leader

Akihiko You can say it like that

Junpei had a point. Between the two of them Minato was the closest to the leader type while Hamuko was the lead the charge into battle where they were likely to get slaughtered type.

Yukari But, they did have fought the shadows before... Yukari vouched for them.

Junpei Seriously? Junpei looked at shocked. Turning to the he received a simple nod from Minato but a wide grin with a peace sign from Hamuko.

C mooooon!

But there's another reason. You three... Akihiko raised his evoker to his head, his grey eyes stern as he stared the two of them down. His eyes flickered with life; there was no doubt or hesitation within him. The aura of his resolve nearly bowled them over. Hamuko resisted the urge to fan herself, but she did let an excited smile tug at her cheeks. Can you summon your Persona without any difficulties, like they can?

Junpei Y-yeah! Of course I can! Junpei barked but whether he had bite was yet to be seen.

Reika Of course

Yukari I think so, Yukari added with a down cast gaze.

Makoto Well you can,t argue with that

Between the two of them they didn t have a faction of what appeared to be Sanada s resolve.

Akihiko These are Shadows we're talking about here. They white haired boxer tucked the evoker back into its holster. Without your Persona, you're screwed.

I know that! Yukari stamped her foot. Geez

Chiaki Well that good

Chiaki I hope you could fight the shadow without difficulty summoning your persona

The two seniors looked between each other and smiled. They were a ragtag bunch, but they had a team. A team that they could hopefully build and train into something more.

Then shall we go? Mitsuru said with a smile.

The group began their walk. But two of them stopped. Kotoha Makoto sleeve and gestured to a familiar looking velvet colored door. You don t think? They pulled the keys they had been gifted from their pockets.

One way to find out. Makoto shrugged. They both approached the door with curiosity, exchanging one last look before Minato stuck his key into the keyhole. A familiar sensation washed over them as they felt as if they were being sucked into another world.

I've been waiting for you, a familiar long-nosed fellow greeted them. At his side was his ever present assistant who nodded along. The time has come for you to wield your power. The tower that you are about to venture into... How did it come to be? For what purpose does it exist?

The twins shrugged. It was a much of a mystery to them as it was to Igor.

Yet the elderly man continued on. Regrettably, you are not yet capable of answering these questions. That is why you must be made aware of the nature of your power. A smirk crept across his face.

The nature of our power? Hamuko asked, her head cocked to the side in bewilderment.

You mean persona? Minato pushed the subject.

It leads here, although no one but you can see it. Igor tapped a book that sat idle on his desk, he had ignored their questioning. Your power is unique. It's like the number zero... It's empty, but at the same time holds infinite possibilities. You, my dears, are able to possess multiple Personas, and summon them as needed.

Hamuko looked at her brother, excitement in her eyes as she gleefully swung her feet in her chair. That s good right? It means we can summon really cool stuff? She had seemed to have forgotten about the danger they found themselves in the time before.

However, Igor continued on unperturbed. My spare time will soon be scarce. But, please come again of your own accord. I'll tell you then about my true role... the manner in which I can best assist you. Until then... Farewell.

With another wave of his hand the mysterious man ushered them out. No longer taken by surprise the twins making sure to wave farewell to he and his assistant.

Hey! You alright? Yukari called as she waved a hand before their faces, the surprise nearly caused them both to fall over backwards.

Junpei Yeah, what's up? You look like a zombie. Junpei raised a brow. His jealously from the leadership assignment had obviously also not subsided.

Makoto Nothing. Minato assured them.

Kotoha We just opened this door and what? The growing looks of confusion between Junpei and Yukari made the blue haired boy stop mid-sentence.

What door? Yukari asked.

Junpei Man are you loco?

Reika I don't see any door

You can t see it? Kotoha chimed. It s right here! She pointed at the door that she could very plainly see.

The other two exchanged a look before shaking their heads. Have you been nodding off?

Yukari You seem kinda out of it. There was a look of worry on Yukari s face.

Junpei You're s'posed to be our leader. Get your head in the game! Junpei clapped the back of Minato s back.

Come on, let's go. Yukari waved, she was already ascending the staircase.

Kotoha They~ can t see the door.

Makoto Nope.

Makoto No sense worrying about it then .

The team of four ascended the staircase, weapons in hand, each a varying degree of nervous. Their heartbeats quickened with each step, just what awaited them beyond the doorway.

Junpei So, this is it, huh...? Junpei retained his wonder as they gazed into the labyrinth that was Tartatus.

Reika Man this is look scary

Yukari I hope I don't get lost... Yukari was still more worried about their safety.

Mitsuru Can you all hear me? a familiar voice echoed into their ear pieces.

Mitsuru Whoa! Is that you, Senpai? Junpei said, immediately noticing it was Kirijo.

Loud and clear ! Kotoha saluted no one in particular.

Mitsuru I'll be providing audio backup from here on out.

Junpei Wait... Ya mean, you can see inside here? Junpei s eyes shimmered brightly. Was there no end to Mitsuru s capabilities?

Reika Are you psychic or something

Mitsuru It's my Persona's ability. I'd like to join you, Mitsuru explained. But the structure of Tartarus changes from day to day. That's why outside support is imperative.

Well, THAT makes me feel a whole lot better... Yukari rolled her eyes, not as easily impressed by the other woman.

Mitsuru Now, based on your current location, you can expect to encounter enemies at any minute. Mitsuru warned. They shouldn't be too tough, but proceed with caution. Practice makes perfect.

Junpei Right! Junpei said with a pump of his fist.

Those shadows are going to learn not to mess with me! Hamuko said as she once again flailed her spear.

Got it. Yukari said weakly. Why is she always like that...? The last part being in reference to Mitsuru, , she couldn t understand them. Mitsuru, with her ever present demeanor of perfection. Then there was Hamuko, who at times didn t feel like a girl at all. The brunette hoped no one had heard her muttered griping, but a single blue haired individual did but was choosing to keep the matter to himself.

Kotoha Come, on! Yukari Let s go!

Junpei Yeah you heard the lady, let s go! Junpei chimed as he pumped a fist into the air.

Yukari I m not going to let you down again. Yukari said as she readied another arrow.

Their battle would rage on as they fought through what seemed like an ocean of shadows. Finally they would claim victory and find their objective, a transporter. With the mysterious tools aid they found themselves back in the lobby with their seniors. The two who did not take part in battle today didn t have to ask, they could see what they felt on their juniors faces.

Junpei Man I m beat, Junpei said as he leaned on his sword for support.

Reika Man I so tired

You can say that again. Yukari said as repeated tugged at her shirt in a combination to fan herself and air out the sweat that she felt clinging to her. A slightly obscene gesture, maybe, but she didn t care at this point.

Makoto well Couldn t have done it without you. He smiled at her again.

Yukari I-it was nothing. Yukari replied, bashful, as she looked away. It was far too early for her to admit that smile gave her a warm feeling inside, he wasn t even a level four friend.

Reika Oh look you all red

Yukari Shut up

Mitsuru No really Takeba, good work. This bit of praise came from an unexpected source, one Mitsuru Kirijo.

Natsumi Well done you were impress

Reika By away why you didn't come along

Natsumi I must stay with Mitsuru at all time

Reika I see

Natsumi We should head back to the Dorm and rest

Mitsuru I agree

Soon afterward the Team left Tartarus and rest back at the Dorm