Author's Note:

I'm sorry about the delay with the chapter. I haven't had much free time to write, however when I get the chance I will do so. In the meantime, I hope you guys find this chapter to your liking.

Also, thanks everyone for the views and faves. It's very much appreciated. As well as for following my story. Thanks!

Disclaimer: Persona 3 and its characters belong to Atlus.

Enjoy!

Ch. 4

Awakening

April 9, 2009

Early morning

Minato shot out of bed. He looked around the room, frantically searching about. He continued like this for a few seconds, before he stopped. He massaged his temples.

What was that? A dream? But, yet…it felt real at the same time.

Minato then glanced at the clock sitting near his bedside. He read that it was almost time for him to start getting ready for school.

Well, there goes my morning, he thought bitterly. Minato got up from his bed and proceeded to get ready.

-I-

Minato and Hamuko were walking up towards Gekkoukan. At the moment, however, they were engrossed in a serious conversation.

"So you had the same dream too, then?" Minato asked.

"Yeah," Hamuko replied, "We were both in this blue elevator room. And then there was this man with a long nose named Igor. He talked to us too, but when he finished, well I remember feeling sleepy and that's it."

"I felt the same way too. But, was what happened really a dream or not? It felt real enough to me." Minato said.

"I don't know, Big Bro. But, it probably was. I seriously doubt that you and I sleepwalked over to where that place was. By the way, do you remember what that place was even called? I forgot its name." She asked.

"It was called the Velvet Room." He answered.

Hamuko looked at her brother, "Oh, yeah. That's exactly what the long-nosed man said."

"You mean Igor?" Minato asked. He raised an eyebrow because of what his sister called Igor.

"Yes, Igor." Hamuko said, "Come on Minato-nii, don't tell me that you couldn't help but stare at that long nose."

Minato rolled his eyes. It was true that during their time in the Velvet Room Minato couldn't help but look at Igor's abnormally, long nose. But was it really the time to discuss just how a long nose like Igor's is not possible?

"Okay, yes, I admit that I would stare at it from time to time. But, can we get back to the subject?" Minato said.

"See. I was right; you couldn't help but look at his nose." Hamuko smirked.

"Hamuko!"

"Alright. Kidding aside, I have no idea why we both had the same dream. I don't even think that's even possible, truth be told." Hamuko said.

"I don't think so either," Minato agreed. "But what worries me the most is that that contract showed up."

"Yeah." Hamuko replied, her face now having a worried expression. She looked at her brother, "Minato-nii, just what did we even sign up for?"

He looked at his sister and then shifted his gaze forward. Minato was about to answer, but was interrupted by-

"Mornin' guys!"

The twins then looked towards the direction of the speaker.

Junpei was leaning next to the school gate. It looked like he was waiting there for awhile.

"Junpei, were you waiting here for us?" Hamuko asked.

Junpei smiled, "Yeah, but you guys didn't take too long."

"So why the waiting?" Minato asked, curious about Junpei's reason.

"Huh? Just thought you guys may want company." Junpei scratched his head. "That and I was gonna ask if you want to hang out with me afterschool. 'Cuz, you know, I still owe you dude for helping me out in class."

Minato then nodded. "Yeah, that's fine."

Junpei sighed in relief, "Sure."

Hamuko peeked out from her brother's side. "And what about me?"

Junpei looked at her, "You can come too if you want, Hamuko-chan."

"Yes!" She shouted.

Minato then heard the bell for school to begin ring. He looked at Junpei and his sister.

"We should get going guys." He said.

The two looked at him and nodded.

"Yep."

"Okay, Minato-nii."

The three then began to walk off towards the school building. Hamuko was walking in between Junpei and Minato.

And as they were going to head to their homeroom for class, the three juniors talked amongst themselves.

"But, you gotta admit guys. This is a perfect day," exclaimed Junpei, "The sky's blue…We're in our prime…What more could we ask for?"

"Well, you seem to be full of energy." Minato replied.

"And why shouldn't I be? Come on man, you got to enjoy life and its pleasures." Junpei scolded, before he gave a yawn. "Though I wouldn't mind taking a nice, little nap in class. After all, all this energy of mine's got to have some time to get replenished."

Hamuko frowned, "Oh no you're not, Junpei. I already have one idiot who likes to sleep in class. I can't afford to look after another one."

"Oi." Minato grumbled.

"Alright, fine, fine." Junpei complained. "I'll stay up. Sheesh, I didn't take you up for being the serious one Hamuko-chan."

"I'm not." She remarked. "I usually leave that up to Minato-nii. But, every now and then, I have to cover for him. So sorry, but I can't cover up for you too Junpei."

"I get it, don't worry. But, I wish you could've helped me out today. After all, we got Classic Lit. today. Meaning, we're going to have to listen to Mr. Nasty o'l Ekoda's lecture."

-II-

Morning

"Ahem… I'm Mr. Ekoda. I'll be teaching Classic Literature. I'll be teaching about good, old Japan all year. Now some people say that Classic Lit. isn't relevant to everyday life, but oh, how they are wrong!"

Minato looked at Ekoda. Ekoda was a middle-aged man wearing a grey suit with a tie, and he had grey hair.

This guy definitely has an ego, Minato observed.

"The students, the other teachers…wrong, wrong, wrong! No one truly understands Classic Lit. ." He continued, until he noticed that some students weren't even paying attention at all. "Hey, are all of you listening to me? Wake up, children! Open your textbooks now. The first item on our syllabus is "Ise Monogatari", the origin of Japanese literature."

Minato and the rest opened their books and listened to Ekoda's rambling lecture. Minato put his head on his hand, while listening.

He looked from the corner of his eye to look at Hamuko. She was drawing doodles on some paper in her notebook, possibly half-listening to the lecture or not.

Minato smirked. He then turned his attention away from the lecture and daydreamed.

-III-

After school

Minato, Hamuko, and Junpei were walking down the stairs for the shoe lockers. They were going to get everything before going on their outing.

As they were nearing the lockers, Junpei spotted Yukari there. So he called out to her.

"Yo, Yuka-tan!"

Yukari looked up to see them, she waved. The group went up to meet her.

"Hey, guys. What are you doing?" Yukari asked.

"We're going out on the town with Junpei. Yukari-chan, would you like to join us? Since, afterwards we could then walk back to the dorm together?" Hamuko replied.

Yukari pondered the offer for awhile before answering, "Sure, I'll come. I don't have anything else planned."

"Okay." Hamuko smiled. She turned to face Junpei. Junpei nodded his approval, with a smile on his face. While Minato simply nodded.

"First let's get our things." He responded.

The others agreed. So they got their stuff out of the lockers and went out.

-IV-

"Impressive."

"No kidding.

Minato and Hamuko looked amazed at the mall. They have never been to this part of Iwatodai before, other than hanging out near Iwatodai station. Though, it did feel good to go somewhere else for change and get a change of scene.

But, before they had decided for the mall, as promised, Junpei stuck true to his promise to make up to Minato. So they all went out to get snacks first.

Minato got some pocky and a Cielo Mist, Hamuko and Yukari only got pocky, and Junpei had some takoyaki, all at Junpei's courtesy.

"So I take it you guys haven't been around here before to the Paulownia Mall, huh?" Yukari said, upon seeing how the twins were surprised by going to the mall.

"No. This is our first time coming here." Hamuko answered.

Minato then took a sip of his drink before also responding, "Yeah, it is. But, I don't remember this place being here last time."

"Last time?" Yukari asked.

Minato's face sombered a little, as well as Hamuko's. Junpei then looked at them, wondering about the reason for their sudden silence. "Dudes?"

Yukari also now looked at them, concerned. "Hey, are you guys okay?"

Minato looked up, "Oh…Well…It's just that this place wasn't here when we lived here."

Junpei scratched his chin, "You dudes lived here? When?".

Minato answered, "Ten years ago. Before our parents-". He stopped, took another sip from his drink, but he looked away, now refusing to go on. While Hamuko still didn't say anything and continued to look away.

"Oh." Junpei only answered, taking the hint. Now it seemed that the trip to the mall went from a fun outing to being depressing and somber.

Yukari remained silent throughout the conversation. She knew the reason for the twins' silence, after all she read the file on the them from Mitsuru. But, she quickly snapped out of it and went on to changing the subject.

"The mall isn't too old, that's probably why." She said, "I think it was built a couple or so years ago. A lot of students like to come over here after school. It has a karaoke, a CD store and this great café. There's a nightclub here too, but that's not exactly for us. And all of it was done by Kirijo-senpai's family. Kind of strange, but, yeah."

Junpei looked at her, "Seriously? Man, her family must be super rich. Like millionaires or something."

Minato and Hamuko now looked at the two, feeling a bit better at the subject change. Hamuko asked, "Is she really that rich Yukari-chan?".

Yukari looked at her, "Mm-hm. Her family is also quite powerful too."

"Hm." Hamuko nodded.

Minato though was looking around the mall. He brought his drink up for another sip and finished off the Cielo Mist.

"So what now?" He muttered.

The others looked at him, surprised that he wanted to now talk again, after staying silent for awhile.

Minato lifted one eyebrow over as to why everyone looked at him with surprise. "What?", he questioned.

Junpei was the first one to speak, "Dude? Are you feeling okay or-".

"I'm fine," Minato somberly responded, "After all, that was all in the past. It's not like it can be undone or anything. So no use in complaining about it."

Junpei continued to look at Minato, still not believing that what he said was true. But, soon he sighed and relented. "'kay."

Minato nodded grateful. He looked at the other two. Hamuko looked away, her eyes were dark. As for Yukari, she became silent and had a small frown on her face.

"Guys, it's alright. I feel fine. Cheer up." He assured.

Hamuko looked back at him and smiled. But, he knew that she was only trying to fool herself and hide her worry. But, he accepted anyways and gave a smile in return. Yukari then looked at the both of them and she too gave a smile. A small one though.

With the situation brought out of its awkwardness, Minato asked, "Could we try out that café of yours, Yukari?".

Relieved that the situation passed Junpei was glad, but now he became shocked.

"Errr… But, Minato didn't you just… well… you already ate and drank something. Now you want coffee?".

"So?"

"Uhh…"

Junpei still seemed confused, scratching his head, he asked, "Well, if that's what you want I'm game. But, you and your sis sometimes scare me whenever you guys eat. Especially by how much you eat."

The rest laughed at Junpei's statement. It now seemed that the fun atmosphere had returned to the group, for which they were truly thankful for.

With that, they headed off to the café, which was called Chagall Café, and there they enjoyed themselves till evening fell.

Afterwards, they parted ways with Junpei and Minato, Hamuko, and Yukari went towards the dorm.

-V-

Dark Hour

Akihiko had just finished pummeling a group of Shadows. The group was consisted of about five Shadows, which was no problem for him. So he quickly disposed of them within seconds.

He then wiped his gloves free from the Shadow guts that covered them. When he was done, he looked around.

Currently, Akihiko was near Iwatodai station. He had gone there after school and hung around there until the Dark hour had fallen.

Once that happened, he went around and beat any Shadows he could find for training, which is what he had been doing for the past twenty minutes into the Dark Hour.

Hm, maybe that's enough training for the day, Akihiko thought. I guess I should head back. He figured that he could join up with Mitsuru, Yukari, and the Chairman.

Akihiko got his gloves off and walked to where he left his black bag. But, as he was putting everything up for leaving, he stopped.

A loud, screeching noise was heard. It was so loud that it made Akihiko wince a bit.

But, just as quick as it happened, it faded away.

Shit! What the hell was that?

Akihiko now became wary of the situation. So he quickly finished packing up and looked around to make sure it was more or less safe to leave.

The streets were quiet and the sound from earlier did not sound again.

Satisfied, Akihiko began to walk off in the direction of the dorm. Though, he barely started when suddenly-

Boom!

An explosion rocked a nearby building, debris flew out into the air. Akihiko whirled around and saw the flying debris come at him. He managed to dodge most of it, but he did get hit on his left arm.

"Ow!," he hissed in pain. He gripped his arm, while at the same time continuing to hold the bag, he then peered out into the night, trying to see on what exactly caused the explosion.

At first he couldn't pick anything out, but he managed to finally get a glimpse.

He saw a huge, black Shadow. And when he meant huge, it was really huge. It was bigger than any of the Shadows that he and Mitsuru would hunt down.

Upon this realization, Akihiko began to take steps back, hoping that the Shadow didn't get a look at him. But, unfortunately, that was not the case.

The Shadow was currently looking around at the destruction that it caused, before it turned and noticed Akihiko. It then stared at him.

Knowing what was going to happen next, Akihiko quickly turned around and sped off in the opposite direction. He didn't dare to ever look back to check if the Shadow was following or not. Chances were, it probably was.

He raced down the dark streets, trying to reach the dorm before the Shadow could catch up with him.

I've got to reach Mitsuru, he thought. As he was running, Akihiko with great effort, reached for his phone from his pocket with his left hand. He began to dial.

-VI-

Mitsuru pressed her lips into a thin line. Yukari was fidgeting in the seat next to her, clearly upset. While Ikutsuki remained behind them, calmly observing the screen in front. They were again observing the Arisato twins and determining if they did have the potential.

"They're the same as last night," commented Mitsuru, her eyes narrowed.

Indeed, the twins remained the same as last night, no signs or symptoms appearing. And no Shadows coming to devour them either.

"Hmm…very interesting," mused Ikutsuki, "Those with the potential tend to be unstable at first; I am quite surprised that Arisato-kun is not displaying such signs."

Mitsuru mentally sighed.

When the twins had first come to the dorms, Mitsuru, Yukari, and Ikutsuki looked over their files.

It said that both twins were involved in a car accident with their parents about ten years ago. Their parents,unfortunately, did not survive the accident which left the Arisatos as orphans. It also said that they were moved from place to place among relatives, so they never stayed somewhere for long.

On Hamuko, her file read that she did possess mild mental trauma. However, the reason was that during the accident she had passed out. But, the trauma was otherwise reported as not being too severe with her.

But...Minato's was different.

With him, it read that he suffered severe mental trauma from the incident. There were also notes and reports from doctors that had described him as having had symptoms of PTSD due to said incident. The file went on to say that the reason for having the disorder was that Minato was conscious throughout the whole incident, meaning that he had witnessed his parents' death in front of him. Mitsuru had shivered at the thought of witnessing such an event. She was not alone in thinking so, as the others had also became quite disturbed by this information.

But, what was most disturbing was that Ikutsuki did not seem to have any such concerns. It seemed that he was only pleased to have more Persona users. Regardless of them being mentally prepared or not for the job.

Ikutsuki continued, "Memory loss…disorientation…these are symptoms that would normally appear. But, they are rather unique in that they are not feeling these symptoms in the slightest."

Mitsuru could see that the Chairman was amazed and excited about this development. But, she was soon brought out of her reverie when she heard Yukari.

"But, we're treating them like guinea pigs. I don't think that's right and it's not fair for them either." Yukari protested.

"I understand your concern, Yukari," Ikutsuki assured, "But it is imperative that we recruit new members. Besides, I've heard that they're your classmates. So wouldn't you feel more comfortable with working with someone from the same grade as you?"

Yukari bit her lip, she still felt bad. But she decided to answer, "Yeah, I guess. But, I still feel uneasy about the whole thing."

Mitsuru then was going to add something as well, but was interrupted by a Bing! Coming from one of the control panels.

All three turned forward to focus. Mitsuru pressed the button and said, "Control Room. Akihiko is that you?"

[You're not going to believe this] Akihiko exclaimed, his voice a bit static over the transmission.

Mitsuru was surprised that it was Akihiko answering. Normally, he would never call through such means.

"Akihiko, what is it?" She demanded.

"This thing is huge! Unfortunately, I don't have time to talk… The damn thing is chasing me. So heads up, I'll be there in a sec."

The transmission ended. Mitsuru sunk into her seat, worried.

This was exactly the kind of thing that I was warning you about, Akihiko…

Yukari though panicked about the situation. "Does that mean he's bringing that thing here?!"

Mitsuru ignored the brunette's exclamation and turned to face Ikutsuki.

"Mr. Chairman! Let's suspend our observation for now. We'll prepare for battle!"

The Chairman was a bit startled, but continued, "…R-Right. Be careful."

The two girls got up from their seats and ran outside of the Control Room for downstairs. Ikutsuki followed.

-VII-

Akihiko slammed the door behind him. He let the bag drop from his grasp and he slid against the door. He cradled his injured left arm, which was throbbing like crazy.

"Dammit." He cursed.

Akihiko heard footsteps come running down the stairs. He looked up to see Mitsuru and Yukari running down.

When they made it down, they stopped and looked around. Upon seeing Akihiko, they rushed towards him. Ikutsuki soon appeared as well, after catching up with the girls.

"Akihiko!" Mitsuru shouted, concerned.

"I'm alright. Agh!-" Akihiko gasped. He gripped his arm tighter.

"Senpai!" Yukari shouted.

"It's okay." Akihiko reassured, gritting his teeth. "Nothing I can't handle. But get ready… That thing is going to come any second now."

"Akihiko! This is no time to joke around!" Mitsuru growled. Already she was angry that Akihiko risked himself out there, but now she was upset that he was joking about the situation.

Ikutsuki , however, pressed forward. "Is it one of them, Akihiko?"

Akihiko looked up, "Yeah, but it's not an ordinary one-"

Unexpectedly, the ground shook beneath their feet. That was not a good sign.

"Aaaahhhh! What the…?!", Yukari yelped, "You've gotta be kidding me?!"

Mitsuru narrowed her eyes, she grabbed her gun out of its holster. She turned to face Ikutsuki, "Mr. Chairman, please head for the command room!"

Ikutsuki nodded and he raced upstairs.

She then turned to face Yukari, "Takeba, go upstairs and wake up the Arisatos! Then, escape with them out the back."

"But, what about you two?" Yukari questioned.

"We'll stop it here." Mitsuru answered. She looked down at Akihiko, "You led it to us Akihiko, so I'm afraid you'll have to fight."

Akihiko scoffed. "Tch! Like I got a choice."

He then looked to see Yukari still rooted in her spot.

"What are you waiting for, Yukari? Go now!" He shouted.

"R-Right! I'm going!" Yukari then turned around and ran up stairs.

With Yukari gone, Mitsuru got herself ready. "After this is done, I'm going to be expecting an explanation for this."

Akihiko got up, pain searing from his left arm and now his side. "Alright, alright, I got it. Come on, let's go kick that Shadow's ass."

The two seniors then prepared themselves and ran outside.

-VIII-

Hamuko was sleeping peacefully in bed. Well, up until that moment when-

"Hamuko-chan! Hamuko-chan, get up!"

Hamuko shot up from bed, after hearing Yukari shout out her name. So she then got up and went to quickly change from her pajamas into her school clothes (only clothing available at the moment) and went for the door.

She though almost surprised Yukari, who looked like she was going to bust the door open. But, she quickly recovered and said, "I don't have time to explain. We have to get going out of here, now!"

Hamuko quickly shook out of her surprise. "Okay. But, what about my brother?"

Yukari nodded. "We'll pick him up on the way down. Now hurry!"

The two girls then began to run for downstairs, when Yukari stopped. She turned to face Hamuko. "Here. This is just in case, okay?"

She then handed a naginata to Hamuko. Hamuko grabbed the object, unsure of exactly what to do.

"Let's go!" Yukari shouted.

Still curious about the situation, Hamuko ignored it and went to follow Yukari downstairs.

-IX-

The two were able to reach Minato's room and waited outside. Hamuko then called out, "Minato-nii! Get up!"

No response.

"Minato!"

No response.

"Dammit, Minato! Get up right now!" Hamuko shouted.

Shuffling was heard on the other side of the door and soon the door was opened. Minato stood there in his school uniform as well. His blue hair was disheveled and his eyes reflected his tiredness.

"You could've asked nicely. No need to shout. I'm not deaf," He scratched the back of his head. He then turned and saw that Yukari was there. But, he noticed that she was frightened and her breathing was fast.

"What's wrong?" He asked.

"We have to get going. There's no time to explain." Yukari hurriedly answered.

"…?"

"We have to go downstairs and out the back door. Here, this is for you."

Yukari then gave a confused Minato a katana. When did she…

He looked and now noticed that Hamuko was wielding a naginata in her hands. But before he could question, Yukari said, "There's not much time. Follow me!"

So the three proceeded downstairs. Minato was still confused, so he looked at his sister to judge her reaction. Hamuko looked to him, Just go with it.

He nodded and followed down.

-X-

They reached the rear door to the dorms. Yukari sighed in relief.

"We should be safe now you guys-"

But, she was interrupted by the ring of her phone. Yukari reached down and pulled it out from her pocket.

"Takeba, do you read me!?"

"Y-Yes! I hear you!" She answered Mitsuru.

"Be careful! There's more than one enemy!" Mitsuru warned. "The one we're fighting isn't the one that Akihiko saw!"

"What?!" Yukari exclaimed on the phone.

Bang!

The three jumped at the noise. The rear door was being hit.

Bang! Bang!

Again, not a good sign.

The twins looked at Yukari for an answer. She closed the phone and turned to face them.

"L-Let's pull back!"

The group then dashed for the stairs. And they climbed upwards.

When they reached the second floor, a crash was heard. The crash sounded like glass had broke.

Yukari gasped. "What was that?!"

The ground shook and screeching noises were heard.

"They're getting closer. W-We've got to keep moving!"

The twins nodded and they went up the stairs even further.

-XI-

Yukari slammed the door shut behind them. Her and the twins gasped for air. The run up the stairs was exhausting. Not to mention that it didn't help there being a huge Shadow chasing up after them. But, up on the rooftop, it seemed relatively safe.

Yukari sighed in relief.

"The door's locked. I think we're safe for now." Yukari replied.

The twins nodded. Grateful that that helter skelter run up was done, and that the Shadow couldn't get up. But now with this moment of peace, Minato looked at Yukari. "Takeba-san, would you mind giving an explanation."

Yukari looked up at him and was about to say something when the entire building shook.

"…?!"

"Ah!"

"'the hell?!"

The rumbling did not seem to stop as before. In fact, it felt like it was getting stronger and closer to them.

"You gotta be kidding me! Is it climbing up the wall?!" Yukari shouted.

Damn, is that thing really coming up on the wall? Minato gripped his sword tightly and he looked at the girls. Hamuko was also gripping her weapon, while Yukari stood there. She was trembling.

Yukari looked down at her side, her eyes shadowed with fear. But, she then quickly looked back up, but she gasped.

Minato wondered at her surprise and he turned to see what caused it.

A huge black hand gripped the edge of the building… soon met by four other hands.

Another hand lifted up a blue mask, using it to look around the area. The full moon in the background gave it a menacing appearance.

The Shadow then crawled up onto the roof. Upon seeing the three teenagers there, it flashed six swords out, ready to strike.

It then began to advance closer to the group. Minato, Hamuko, and Yukari tried backing up, but really there was no point. They were trapped here on the roof.

Yukari gulped. "We call these monsters Shadows…"

She then quickly grabbed for her side. She pulled out something and put it at her head.

Minato froze. It was a gun.

Hamuko stared in shock as well. "Yukari-chan, you're not thinking of-!"

Minato couldn't speak, he only stared. Is she? She's not seriously going to do that, right?!

"Here it goes…" Yukari shut her eyes, her hands gripped the gun to her head, taking several deep breathes. A swirling, blue energy column appeared around her.

She still had the gun, pressed to her forehead. But, her hand refused to pull the trigger. "I-I can't do this-!"

As if taking advantage of this chance, the Shadow hit her with one of its swords. The blow sent her flying at the wall. Her gun flew off to the side.

"Aaaaahhh!"

"Takeba-san!"

"Yukari-chan!"

The twins ran over for her. Hamuko dropped her weapon and went to her side, propping her up. She then looked from Yukari to her brother, who was running to join her.

But, she saw the huge creature focus its attention on her brother now. Its sword was poised to strike another blow, right for her brother's back.

"Minato, behind you! Look out!"

Minato heard her, he glanced back. The sword was coming down onto him. And it would have cleaved him in two, but he quickly dove for the side. The sword crashed into the ground. The impact shaking the building.

Hamuko clutched Yukari tighter towards her, trying to shield the girl from the impact.

Minato fell onto the ground.

He slowly tried to get up and recover from the impact. He looked up and saw that he was in front of Yukari's gun, which rested in a pool of blood.

Wha-?

He didn't have time to finish the thought, when a loud, screeching noise rang out.

Minato looked and saw that the Shadow was advancing for the girls.

Hamuko's eyes were wide and frightened. Yukari was still unconscious in his sister's arms.

He flicked his gaze back unto the gun. It remained there, lying in the blood.

Minato didn't know what to do. He knew that he had to protect the girls, he had to. But, here he was lying on the floor, helpless, while the Shadow was moving closer to them.

Goddammit! MOVE!

He lowered his head down. His body refused to pick up the gun.

It's hopeless. We're done for. I'm sorry sis...Yukari...

"Go on."

Minato's head shot up. There, standing before him, was the same boy that had come to him and Hamuko on their first day.

"You know what to do." The boy smiled, before he put two fingers against the side of his head.

Minato's got up. He then bent down to pick up the gun. When he did, he felt his mind go blank. Nothing else mattered but the gun in his hands.

-XII-

Akihiko, Mitsuru and the Chairman were inside the Control Room. They were watching the whole scene unfold before them.

But, as soon as the impact of the Shadow's sword settled, Mitsuru felt that they now needed to take action.

"Mr. Chairman, we should-!"

"Look."

Ikutsuki now pointed at the screen.

-XIII-

Everything began to become clear. He did know what to do.

Minato put the gun to the side of his head. The cold, steel of the gun's muzzle was felt on his skin. His finger tensed on the trigger.

"Now…just pull the trigger." The boy smiled.

Minato inched the trigger, slightly. He could hear his heart pound in his ears as he then spoke the word.

"Per…"

He heard it. That was his voice.

"So…"

A smile came to his face. He felt power coursing through every fiber of his being; it welled up inside of him…

"Na…!"

Minato pulled the trigger.

He heard something break within his mind, as his power became unleashed. Blue energy fragments swirled around him and went upwards, forming something.

A voice was then heard.

"Thou art I…and I art thou…"

Hamuko watched in awe at what was going on with her brother. Yukari, who had now woken up, looked at Minato with widened eyes.

The figure above Minato formed into a body with a blue torso and platinum limbs, a red scarf was wrapped around its neck, and finally, a huge lyre was strapped onto its back.

The figure continued to speak, "From the sea of thine soul I cometh… I am Orpheus, master of strings!"

Orpheus then roared.

The Shadow turned to look at this new development. Its focus no longer set on the girls, so it again went to go for Minato.

Minato stepped forward to confront the Shadow, but suddenly he heard a loud roar in his mind. And it shook him to his core.

He then grabbed his head in pain. "Guuuaaaaaaahhhhhhh!"

He stepped back, clutching his head, dropping the gun as he did so. The pain increasing by the second, his head felt like it was going to explode. The roar also continued to ring throughout his mind.

Orpheus, meanwhile, began to convulse and spasm, as a black blob came out from him. It ripped apart Orpheus and splatted onto the ground, convulsing and writhing.

Hamuko was continuing to watch the scene, and judging by it, if she didn't do anything quick that Shadow was going to go after her brother and kill him. She got up.

Yukari looked at her, "Hamuko? What are you going to-?"

"I'm sorry Yukari-chan. But, I have to save my brother." She then dashed for him.

"WAIT! Hamuko!" Yukari yelled.

Hamuko ignored Yukari's warning and continued to run for Minato. As she got closer, she noticed the gun lying on the floor.

She stopped and looked at it.

She ran over to it and grabbed it.

She held shakily it in her hands. She knew what she had to do.

Hamuko placed the gun against the side of her head. Her eyes were shut tight. Remember what Minato-nii did. He said that word, but what was it?!

Hamuko's mind frantically tried to remember what her brother had said.

But, suddenly, a soft voice said to her...

"Persona..."

Upon hearing the word, Hamuko's mind became blank.

"Per…"

Yes, that's it.

"So…"

She smiled.

"Na…!"

Hamuko pulled the trigger.

And just like with Minato, blue energy fragments swirled around her. Reaching upwards, they began to form into Hamuko's own persona.

"Thou art I…and I art thou…"

When the persona finished forming, it was different from Minato's own. It had long, flowing hair, a golden torso, and a red scarf wrapped around its neck. Its limbs were of light silver, compared to Orpheus'. Overall, her persona seemed to have brighter colors compared to Minato's, which looked darker.

The Persona spoke, "From the sea of thine soul I cometh… I am Eurydice, dancer and muse of the master of strings!"

Hamuko was going to command Eurydice to destroy the huge Shadow, but she heard a loud roar.

It was then accompanied by a sudden rush of pain in her skull.

"Aaaaaugggghhhh!"

And just like Orpheus, Eurydice convulsed and spasmed. She then, too, was ripped apart and a black blob fell onto the floor.

Then, the blob near Minato went for the one near Hamuko. The two blobs joined together and generated a dark aura.

When the aura vanished, it left behind something.

-XIV-

"What the hell is that?!" Akihiko shouted. His eyes widened at what was being shown on the screen.

Mitsuru simply stood there in silence. She was too shocked to speak.

Ikutsuki though, gave a small smile.

-XV-

Minato felt the pain subside and looked up.

A huge creature had suddenly appeared. It gave a roar to the sky, issuing a challenge to its enemies. Its body was covered in a black coat, with a belt buckle, and it had white gloves and shoes. A ring of coffins surrounded the creature and were connected to it by chains.

Its sword was drawn and it was staring at the Shadow.

The Shadow now, seemingly forgetting Minato once again, looked at the one who challenged it.

But, before it could even make a move, the creature slashed it in half with its sword. It then grabbed it and slammed it into the ground.

Again, it slashed the Shadow, cutting off its limbs and mask. The mask faded away. After it was done slicing, it smashed whatever was left of the Shadow across the floor.

Yukari was witness to this all happening before her. She did nothing and would only look in horror at whatever this creature was doing.

What is this? She thought.

The creature panted, it enjoyed this rush of power. It picked up one of the Shadow's limbs, crushing it in its fist. It roared up at the sky.

Minato winced, as well as Hamuko. The roar seemed to pierce through their skulls like a sharp pain.

But, soon the creature's body flickered and then finally disappeared. Orpheus and Eurydice were left in its place.

Minato collapsed on his knees, sweat falling down from his forehead. When the sudden rush of power had subsided, it left him drained and exhausted.

He lay there panting. "Huff…huff…huff…"

He glanced back. He saw Hamuko bending halfway, her forehead also glistening with sweat. But, it seemed that it did not take as much of a toll on her as it did him.

"Ha…muko…", he panted.

She looked up at him. "Minato…"

He smiled, despite his weariness. He was glad that he was able to protect them. They were safe.

He then saw Yukari in the back, she was standing up. "Is it over…?" He heard her ask.

As if in reply, four Shadows suddenly appeared from the remains of the larger one. They began to head for them, but mostly were trying to aim for him.

Great…Minato grumbled. He was too tired to do much in his condition, much less fight. Meaning, he was a sitting duck out there.

But, he then felt something rush past him. He looked forward. Hamuko rushed at the Shadows, naginata in hand.

"Persona!"

Hamuko's persona, Eurydice, appeared near her.

"Bash!" Hamuko commanded.

Eurydice spun around and then slammed her foot down on the Shadow, reducing it into splattered guts.

Eurydice dealt that same move on another Shadow with the same result. Hamuko dealt with the other two on her own. She slashed them in half with her naginata.

When she was done, she spun around her weapon in a flashy manner. She turned around to see her brother.

She gasped.

Minato was slumped on the floor. Exhaustion completely overcame him.

"Minato-nii!"

She ran towards him. Yukari also ran for them too.

Hamuko reached him first. She flipped her brother on his back, sweat beaded on his forehead. His breath was shallow.

"Minato-nii! Minato-nii! Come on, wake up!" Hamuko shouted, she lightly shook her brother.

He gave no response.

No…

Yukari was then beside her. She put her hand on Minato's forehead.

"He's burning up." She said.

Tears suddenly came to Hamuko's eyes. This was all her fault. If only she had done something earlier, maybe he wouldn't have taken on the brunt of that power. He would've been okay.

No. I don't want to lose you too, Minato-nii. Come on, get up.

Hamuko then heard a door open. She turned to see who it was.

Akihiko and Mitsuru ran up to the three.

"Are you guys, okay?" He asked.

Yukari responded, "We're fine, but…" Her eyes went down.

"He has a fever." Hamuko answered.

Mitsuru looked down, "We'll get immediate medical help then. Akihiko, tell the Chairman to call for help."

Akihiko nodded. He ran back to the Control Room.

Hamuko got up, wanting to help. But suddenly, she was hit by a wave of exhaustion. She fell to her knees.

"Arisato!"

"Hamuko!"

She fell forward, exhaustion finally taking its hold over her. Minato-nii…

A/N:

- I had fun with writing this chapter. After all, this is probably one of the most epic moments in the game. I hope that I did this scene justice. I also gave Hamuko's persona a different name rather than just have it be Orpheus. I think that it seems to make more sense than them having the same persona. After all, it would be boring if they just shouted "Orpheus!" "Orpheus!" "Wait, is that yours or mine?" "Huh?" . So yeah, to make it less confusing and more fitting Minato's initial persona is Orpheus and Hamuko's initial persona is Eurydice.

- I am planning to write a drabble collection that correlates with the main story. Its title is going to be Memoriae. So look out for that soon.

- Thanks for reading this chapter. Feel free to leave any comments, feedback, or faves.