Persona 3: Minato Arisato, the first wild card

by DarkDragon1407

The Wild Card is unpredictable. During a card game, he suddenly appears and turns everything upside down, giving the loser a chance to become a winner. When the world changed due to the games of the gods, the first ever Wild Card appeared on the table, knowing his own shadows and controlling a power he never asked for. His name is Minato Arisato. And this is the story of his return

18. You are not alone

Thursday, July 9th, 2009
Tartarus - Arqa Block, 58th floor

It was enough for him to know that the rest had managed to escape. Now only he and that great Shadow were left, he knew that he would have a very difficult time, compared to Fuuka, he did not know where each enemy was. Above all, his body was not in optimal conditions to try to be brave.

Will his wild card power be enough to emerge victorious? Since he managed to awaken this mysterious power, he always wondered in his moments of solitude, why did it have to be him? This was not the time to get reflective, he was ready to escape from this cursed tower, no matter what.

- Did you sacrifice your life for those poor souls? It seems nothing has changed over the years. You're still trying to be a hero in this corrupted world without salvation - the fixed gaze that Shadow had on Minato, made his hair stand on end. Not even Masashi was able to provoke all those waves of emotions.

- All these years? What the hell is he talking about? Give me a break, please…

He was willing to bare his teeth to death itself to face his fears, he had to see his friends one more time, his life wasn't going to end in this miserable way

- I see you finally let me say my name. I was beginning to think you liked me - Minato's innocent joke would cost him dearly, when he saw the hole in his right shoulder and the screams were not long in coming.

His mind kept thinking of all his probabilities. He was buying time, waiting for the moment to execute the plan that would give him a minimal chance of survival and it would all depend on the key factor of his plan, luck.

- I never came to think that this individual that the Shadows talked so much about, was you... - An important fact that he would take into account in spite of the pain.

The Shadows were able to communicate with each other, they were learning about SEES. Which meant, they were getting stronger.

- I appreciate that you look like those manga villains who explain their plans and give the hero a chance to end the evil.

Arisato hoped that those cliché scenes, give the same results for his situation.

- Shooting himself to summon a Persona? It's a very absurd way, if the enemy is able to snatch that "weapon" from you it's over - Something didn't seem to add up for the Shadow, since he finally managed to corner him

- Wait a moment. Every shot means the call of a Persona... I'm sure I heard two shots. Then why is there only one Persona?

His answer came in the form of a harp as his head jerked around. That's when he understood, the second shot corresponded to his Persona Orpheus who had been hiding all this time. The Shadow had fallen completely into his game, for a moment, he had become the prey.

It was only a few seconds, before he came back to all his senses. Only to realize that Minato, once again, had escaped him. Instead of losing control, as before, he could only laugh at the situation.

- Well played Arisato...That's it, keep running. You have nowhere to go, because now, you are in my territory - firing both revolvers, as a sign that his hunt had begun.

In the distance, Orpheus was carrying Minato on his back. Due to the shot, which he had received earlier, his mobility was quite affected, not to mention the shot he had received in his shoulder.

In his innermost thoughts. Orpheus was scared, once again, Death is following his loved ones, he was not willing to allow, someone like Minato to die. He would do everything he could to help him, because the master of the strings, had thought of him as a son he could never have.

- So, what's the plan? - Orpheus asked

- To be honest, I didn't think it would work. I was already starting to think about how the meeting with my parents would go - Minato answered sincerely. Orpheus couldn't help but laugh, perhaps to alleviate the momentum of the moment - Hua Po, do you think you will be able to walk?

The little fairy came out of his jacket. All this time, she had been hiding despite the fact that the Shadow knew of her presence.

- I still need to continue healing his wound. Besides, the fragments of the bullet are still in his body, which prevents a better treatment - answered Hua Po, who continued to heal the wounds of the wild card.

- In that case. My dear Shadows, I need you - they appeared like ghosts, before the call - Can you inform me of the Shadow's path?

- Aye, aye! - answered the Magician and Priestess, disappearing.

- I hate to say this, but we have no chance of winning. We can only run away - commented Minato annoyed - Where is Makoto?

- At the moment, he is in a deep sleep - replied Emperor, confusing Minato.

- He's sleeping?! This is not the time for that!

- You don't understand. He is regaining strength, it is the first time he experiences the exchange of souls, just like you - replied Empress - His two souls, exchanged places within the same human being, and all because of the sacred agreement, which they agreed upon.

- This is no time for explanations, we have to survive! How long will we have to wait? - asked Valkyrie frantic

- You must wait one hour - answered Pharos, who appeared in front of Minato - One hour is equivalent to one day in your world. Sounds easy, don't you think?

No one was able to understand how Pharos was able to say such things in situations of extreme danger. Every thought they had was interrupted when they heard the screams of someone they knew well.

- Minato, get down! - the sudden appearance of Magician, accompanied by the sound of several gunshots. It caused everyone to become alarmed

If it hadn't been for Hua Po, who immediately complied with the order. Arisato's body would be lifeless in the corridors of the tower. In the end, the bullet hit the fairy, killing her, causing a pang in Minato's chest.

- Do we have a plan B? - asked Magician. Even someone like him would know they weren't going to have it easy. Once again, it was all going to depend on luck.

Iwatodai Dormitory - Command Room, early morning

The Port Island nightscape swept the darkness into the tinted windows of Kirijo's limousine, which pulled SEES away from Gekkoukan. No one had dared to say a word, exchanged glances with each other. They didn't seem to care about anything.

For the first time since April, Junpei felt that their "adventures" had ceased to be adventures. Trapped in Tartarus, without weapons or the ability to use Persona, they were all closer than ever to death. If it wasn't for Minato, they really would have died in the tower.

- Is this how Minato felt, when he saw his parents die? - Junpei asked himself again and again, on the way back to the dormitory.

Minato... Damn it, he didn't have to go back! He could have left! But no, he appeared at the last moment with this oblique and creepy Persona, defeated everyone ... And as a result, he stayed behind.

- Life really isn't a shonen manga - Iori made a mental grimace as they got out of the limo and entered the bedroom.

Mitsuru and Akihiko began to inspect all the rooms to find the chairman. The trio of young men stood in the lobby, alone with what had happened.

- So... What do we do now? - Junpei was the first to ask, hoping to break the tension of the moment.

- What kind of question is that!? - Junpei flinched, expecting an interrogative shout from the pink archer. - Let's go rescue him!

Yukari's eyes, focused on Junpei, sparkled with emotion like jewels: pain and determination. Fingers turned white, clenched into fists. Takeba's whole body trembled with overflowing emotions. It seemed like one careless word, and she would explode, destroying everything in her path.

Junpei silently accepted Yukari's blow. He couldn't blame her for such a reaction, after all, he saw that she and Minato were bound by more than friendship. But at the same time, he understood that she needed to control herself and not do stupid things. It's only her prerogative.

- I understand how you feel, Yuka-chan - Iori raised his palms conciliatorily. - But the dark hour is over, we both know that...

- Then let Kirijo do something about it and I don't care what! At least she'll sacrifice himself! - Yukari didn't hesitate - I won't let Minato die inside that damn tower!

- Do you think I don't want to do anything to save him?! - Junpei also lost control. - But we're not gods! We're just humans, plain and simple! So, calm down, because haste and emotions won't get us anywhere!

Silence reigned, interrupted by the heavy breathing of his companions. Fuuka looked between them, not knowing what to say in this situation.

Yukari finally succumbed to Junpei in a tense game of glances. Padding her legs, looking down at the floor, she reached the couch and collapsed on it, clasping her head in her hands.

- Why did things have to end like this? We were all supposed to run away together … - Yukari whispered, sobbing and sobbing suffocatingly.

Sometimes she thought, how little Minato loved himself. He was always willing to protect them and didn't care about his own safety. And deep in her soul, Takeba feared that such a day would come, when he would save them, but he himself would disappear forever.

Minato would probably consider it a reasonable price. But not her. How can you care so little about yourself?! Does he really think that everyone will be happy when he's gone, that no one will mourn him?!

In Yukari's eyes, such a lineup was no different from suicide. Indirect, noblest, but suicide. We have only one life and we can't turn it down. After all, then, what's the point?!

- I ask myself the same question, Yukari. But he won't get us anywhere - Junpei sat down beside her, putting his hand on her shoulder. - What we need is to come to our senses, come up with a plan and work together. The latter, of course, was undermined by our "leader", but we have one day to eliminate him.

Iori smiled, finding it unexpectedly amusing how short Mitsuru Kirijo's tenure lasted. Yukari, apparently, she too laughed involuntarily.

- Junpei is right, Yukari-chan - Fuuka joined his friends - Together we can do it. And Minato-kun will last until we get there. After all, he... is stronger than all of us...

- Are you sure about that? - Yukari asked, catching Fuuka's change in tone.

-I... want to believe that he'll last until we get there... - Yamagishi clasped her hands in a prayerful gesture, as if trying to convince herself - But that Shadow... It's too powerful. Even in perfect condition, Minato-kun couldn't win. And in the current...

Yukari's heart sank, as did her hands on the hem of her skirt. The unspoken thought was obvious and stung the mind painfully like a wasp.

- I'm afraid the situation is even worse than you think - Ikutsuki's voice only rubbed salt in the wound.

The young men turned their heads toward the stairs. The chairman descended, looking unharmed. Mitsuru and Akihiko followed him, resembling a royal entourage. And their faces were grim.

- Ikutsuki-san, are you all, right? - Fuuka immediately stood up, expressing concern.

- The unnatural invigorating sleep was helpful - Ikutsuki smiled pleasantly, easily changing his tone. - However, its source is unknown, as well as its transfer to Tartarus.

- Is there nothing in the chambers? - Junpei asked in shock.

- The data has been erased, we checked - Akihiko complained in disappointment. - Whoever our opponent is, he understands hacking and knows about us.

- So, they put us to sleep with the help of Persona - Yukari crossed her arms over her chest - But how did he or she manage to deliver us to Tartarus?

- It's impossible! - Fuuka objected. - They wouldn't have had time to put us to sleep at the beginning of the Dark Hour and take us to Tartarus, where we were from the beginning!

- If you, do it before the beginning of the Dark Hour, then it's possible - said Mitsuru coolly, who had previously remained silent.

- So, these guys can use Personas in the real world? - Junpei was dumbfounded.

- Or they have sleeping gas - Ikutsuki tried to reassure the boys.

- Forget about these monsters, now the main thing is to get Minato out of Tartarus! - Yukari said sharply, being the last person to worry about the unknown Persona users. - Do you have any plans yet?

There was an awkward silence in response. Ikutsuki withdrew his collar from his turtleneck as if he suddenly felt warm. Akihiko turned away, not wanting to meet the young men's eyes. Only Mitsuru retained her usual stamina and cold stare.

- What's the matter? - A sticky chill ran through Yukari's gut, echoing with an unpleasant foreboding.

- We're not going to Tartarus to save Arisato - Mitsuru seemed not to speak, but to pass judgment.

A second delay, and the room exploded with screams

- How dare you!?

- Mitsuru-senpai, you can't do that!

- He saved your life, and you're throwing him away like garbage?! Are you that rotten, Kirijo?

- I'm trying to save your lives, you idiots! - Mitsuru shouted, approaching the young men.

- It's not easy for me to say this, but Mitsuru is right, - Ikutsuki adjusted his glasses, giving his eyes a sinister gleam. - The description of the Shadow you encountered matches what our researchers have classified as a Reaper. The embodiment of death itself from European folklore. Saving Minato-kun is impossible.

- It's still Shadow! We defeated dozens of them! - Junpei retorted heatedly as he took a step forward. - Once we're rested and armed...

- You'll die before you can do anything - Mitsuru instantly silenced Iori, looking not so much grim as sad. - Reaper has no weaknesses. He barely reacts to damage no matter what you throw at him. His attacks reach multiple targets and include magic from all the elements and some we've never met. Reaper also has access to revolver attacks, install-kills and All-Mighty abilities.

- How did you know that? - Yukari grimaced in disbelief, crossing her arms over her chest. - Did he sacrifice enough scientists for his ambitions?

- I met him before and could only run - Mitsuru lowered her head, feeling a growing discomfort - Arisato has been cornered and the Reaper won't let him use teleportation. I'm sorry, but I don't want to lose any more people in a senseless act of heroism.

- You're lying! - Yukari hisses, literally oozing venom in her voice. - You just don't want Minato to come back! After all, he's better than you at everything!

- It has nothing to do with that! - Mitsuru trembled with rage as she approached Yukari.

- You always lied and manipulated! You imposed SEES participation on each of us, leaving us no other choice! - Yukari did not give up, approaching Mitsuru and raising the volume of her voice with each step.

- You chose Minato as leader, then went on the sly to eliminate him! Having everything you want thanks to your family, you want more and more! Cas an infinitely hungry pig that will even eat its own children!

- What do you know about me, Takeba?! - Mitsuru clenched her fists, ready to pounce on her comrade-in-arms. - You didn't live my life; you didn't bring as many victims as I did! The weight of the whole world has never hung on your shoulders!

- My mom and I have lost so much because of the Kirijo Group! - Yukari barked directly into the face of her opponent standing near her - I'm not ready to lose Minato, let alone let your boss us around!

- Who's going to be the leader then, who's more worthy than me?!

- Junpei!

Silence fell instantly, as if someone had flipped a switch. Mitsuru blinked, trying to process the information. Yukari stood firmly on her feet, hands on her hips. Fuuka, Akihiko and Ikutsuki turned their heads toward Junpei, who had his mouth open. They didn't mind joining him: Yukari of all people said, which Junpei better than Mitsuru.

- Um... - Iori picked his jaw up from the metaphorical floor - Speaking of me... What are the Almighty abilities?

The atmosphere cleared up a bit. Akihiko rubbed his eyes wearily, Fuuka exhaled and allowed himself an awkward smile. Mitsuru and Yukari didn't change their positions.

- The Almighty Skills, Junpei, are the most powerful, what Persona can be available - Ikutsuki visibly encouraged, explained. - They do not attack weaknesses, but inflict massive damage and cannot defend themselves. You can only survive the attack, but at the moment it is beyond your power.

- Sounds like a super boss from a video game - Junpei nodded, catching everything in his style. - But we don't have to fight him. The main thing is to get Minato out.

- And how do you figure this? - Mitsuru growled, switching from Yukari to Iori.

- You just said he wasn't taken by the attacks. And our Personas seem to have slights like Sleep or Fear. At least for a while, this should slow the Reaper down. We can also set him on fire, freeze him or put him in shock. Well, or we can prepare a critical hit beforehand: it stuns the Shadows, regardless of weaknesses. Yuka-chan can hit him in the eye with an arrow or something.

- Strangely enough, I agree with Junpei in terms of "brief delay" - Akihiko, who had been silent until then, spoke up - In combat or sports, a few moments decide everything. And our Personas can't just use lightning and fireballs.

- That's right, senpai! - Junpei snapped his fingers, rejoicing at the support. - You can weaken the Reaper, which can increase our chances. A little.

- Once we're in Tartarus, I'll do my best to find Minato-kun as soon as possible! - Fuuka clenched her fists in front of her. The determination on her pretty face was charming and Junpei involuntarily wanted to pat her on the head.

- Do you listen to yourself? - Mitsuru shouted indignantly, losing any hint of self-control. - You don't even know if this idea will work at all, but you're already ready to go to Tartarus and die together to save one person when the fate of humanity is at stake!

- We should at least try - Junpei stood his ground, unwilling to back down - Minato has done too much for us to give up so easily. With our tails between our legs, we won't be able to defeat the Full Moon Shadows and put an end to the Dark Hour. Besides, the Shadows may soon become more dangerous than the Reaper, and without Minato our chances are not very high!

Fuuka knew very well how Junpei felt about Minato, and that was envy. But that feeling no longer encompassed in his heart, but admiration for his friend. Minato, was the first person who trusted in his abilities, that at the most crucial moment in Shirakawa. With his last cries, he left the command to him, because he knew that he could take it all.

- I've had enough of your stupidity, Iori! You're an idiot and a loser who will never be a leader! - Mitsuru expresses what she always secretly thought about Junpei. - We won't save Arisato! And if you continue to argue, I'll execute you!

- Shut up!

The sound of a mighty slap was as sharp as lightning. And after it followed the thunder of a cat fight, torn clothes and swearing. Mitsuru and Yukari rolled on the floor, hitting each other with everything they could, biting and clawing at the stunned looks of everyone present. Ikutsuki moved as far away from the fight as possible, not wanting to interfere.

- Mitsuru-senpai! Yukari-chan! Enough! - Fuuka shouted, trying to stop the madness. She didn't dare to fight.

- Now is not the time for that, you two! - Akihiko already tried to step in and drag the girls to the corners of the ring. In response, he received a shoe kick from Yukari and fell to the ground next to Iori.

- Junpei, it's your turn - Sanada said with difficulty, flexing his injured jaw.

- Hey, it's not easy to be the hero of the day. That's Minato's job - Iori shrugged, after which he cleared his throat and said cheerfully - I understand that the moment is tense, but there's no need to become lesbians!

Fuuka and Akihiko turned their heads sharply towards Junpei, who pulled out his phone for some reason. Mitsuru and Yukari froze in a compromising position.

Kirijo was on top, with a massive trace of a slap on her face, her blouse ripped to reveal a black bra, her hair destroyed, several strands of hair apparently pulled out and Yukari's necklace in her hands. Takeba below was with an unbuttoned blouse, an obscenely raised skirt and a bitten arm. Both were scratched, and their red, sweaty faces were criminally close to each other.

- I mean, this is where it all starts! - Junpei continued talking as Fuuka's ears picked up the sound of the photograph. - First a fight or conflict, then a fight, and then passion makes you kiss, undress, do scissor legs and everything a woman does with another woman! And I'm not a fan of this, I just tried to close ads on the site, and she threw me to another site! - Junpei quickly added, making a mental note to delete the search history.

The chirping of crickets seemed appropriate in the existing silent scene. Akihiko started to walk away from Junpei as far as possible. Fuuka blushed and looked down. Yukari and Mitsuru looked at each other and went to different corners of the room. They looked ... No longer angry, but embarrassed and uncomfortable. Apparently, Junpei's words touched some strings of their souls.

- Remind me never again, to hang out with you in high school again - Akihiko was serious about that. A part he didn't know about Junpei and it made him uncomfortable, like being surrounded by women, which only gave him headaches.

- Looks like the problem is solved - Ikutsuki coughed, drawing the teenagers' attention. - From now on, Junpei is appointed as the leader of SEES.

- But president...! - Mitsuru tried to protest before Ikutsuki's raised palm stopped her

- This is my final decision. On your day as leader, you have proven yourself to be completely incompetent, Mitsuru. And while I have my doubts about Junpei-kun's plan, he is more level-headed and reserved than you are at this point. I hope I have made myself clear?

- Yes, president… - Mitsuru capitulated to Junpei and Yukari's delight.

- I hope you can handle it, Junpei Iori - Ikutsuki patted the boy on the shoulder, expressing his full support for the new leader - Besides, you will have help from someone in this operation. I only ask for patience

- I will do my best! - Junpei nodded, feeling a surge of joy. - And my first order is to go and rest. If we want to save Minato, we have to be fully prepared.

- A wise decision - Ikutsuki agreed as he checked his watch. - It's already three in the morning and you've already had a busy day. You don't have to go to school, I'll take care of the details.

- We also need to get some consumables for debuffs or something, - Junpei scratched his chin. - After all, we don't have a variety of Personas and skills like Minato.

- How does Minato remember all those skills? For me, just thinking about the ones I have, I have a hard time - Akihiko said, showing off Minato's combat virtues even more.

- I will contact our research department as soon as possible. Let's see what they have.

- Then it's decided. Meeting's over, team! Scatter!

After everyone left, Junpei's mind went back to three things: saving Minato, the long-awaited leadership, and the incriminating photos on his phone. A weapon of the greatest power... The main thing is not to lose it and not to show it to Minato. Although... Maybe it's worth it.

An intense knock on the door made Junpei jump and hide the phone. His whole body tensed, his eyes searching the room for weapons. If the kidnappers decided to strike back or prove the success of their attack, then he would have to hold the line and die a heroic death. Which Iori didn't want.

- Is anyone there? - Said the stranger behind the door in a worried voice that sounded like Officer Kurosawa.

- Ah, it's just Officer Kurosawa - Junpei's suspicions diminished and he relaxed - Something important must have happened since he came ... So... Late ...

The thought suddenly entered Junpei's mind that this might be a clever ploy. After all, who will you open the door to first? The one you trust. A loved one or a police officer.

The tension returned with triple force. Constricted like a spring, Junpei didn't move or speak, ready to face the enemy if he opened the door lock. He wasn't sure if it was Kurosawa ... But he didn't dare to check either. It was enough to make yesterday's kidnapping and the memory of horror movies a bit paranoid.

- I'll warn Akihiko and take the bat - Junpei slowly retreated towards the stairs - Better be safe...

The knock from behind the door and the voice were no longer heard. There was a faint hope that the stranger (Kurosawa?) was leaving for one reason or another. But Junpei did not relax his vigilance and looked carefully behind his back and under his feet so as not to stumble and not to make noise.

He stumbled on the second floor, but did not go down the stairs.

In the end, it only took Junpei an unexpected and half-fatal abduction to make him more cautious. And Officer Kurosawa could understand that now is not the time for sudden visits and everyone is already asleep. So, he will stay in his patrol car and wait until morning.

Iwatodai dormitory - Command room, early morning

There were so many thoughts rolling around in his head, he was sure he was not going to be able to fall asleep this day. So many unexpected events, in a single day. He analyzed in detail every piece of information that was given to him by the rest of the team. Since they woke up in that place and how Minato risked his life once again, to save them.

Now a difficult operation awaited them all, they have lost their best card against the Shadows. He didn't think it would come so soon, the moment he would have to participate. He had to make that call, he couldn't lose someone as valuable as Minato, his plans with him had just begun...

- Very well, it seems your time to act has come. I trust you will do the right thing and, above all, you won't let me down - Ikutsuki's words did not match the somber look on his face.

- Understood, I'll be in the dorm before the Dark Hour begins. I promise not to let you down, father

- I'm glad to hear that, Sho. I will not tolerate failure in this operation - ending the call. Returning to a vague memory from many years ago, to be exact, an explanation about a God.

Son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty and Ares, the god of war. That is why today phobias are irrational fears, since they derive from the name of the god.

Phobos was for the Greeks the evil god of fear and panic. According to Greek tradition he is a god who brought confusion, alarm, panic and consternation to the war camps of mortals.

A name he thought he would never hear again after so many years. Those people insisted so much that, if they managed to hear anything from him or worse, to be face to face. He would communicate to them immediately, since this God could not be in the world of humans.

- Who are you really Minato Arisato? - Ikutsuki wondered - At the time, I thought it might be a joke, despite all the help she gave us with our investigation.

Was Phobos such a terrible God? Or, rather, such a feared Person? It seemed absurd to him at the time, that they would give all that "insignificant" explanation but he knew that Mitsuru would not lie with something like that about it. He still remembers the words she said to his, when they were alone.

"It's just as she described it...Phobos is real!"

Ikutsuki could only scratch his head in frustration. In the end, he decided not to make the call. He was curious as to how things would turn out, after all, investigation is his job, and information, is something sacred to him.

Iwatodai Dormitory - Third Floor, Yukari's Room, Early Morning

Like Ikutsuki, the archer was also one of the people who could not fall asleep. She was even coming to think, that this operation would be more important than those of Full Moon and everything had to do with its leader.

She would say to herself that she would be a hypocrite if she said that he was just an acquaintance. To think that this guy had become someone very important in such a short time, she supposed that this was the normal relationship you have with someone when you risk your lives together, with monsters taken from the same asylum.

He had become someone very important and all for the simple fact, that they both shared a history that they could both understand. However, every time Yukari saw more about Arisato's story, she found more unknowns surrounding him, without a doubt, he had been the most mysterious boy she had ever met.

She was sure, if you asked him what her favorite food was. He would know the answer, but what was his favorite food? His favorite hobby? What were his parents' names? Questions she didn't have the answer to.

It was time to return all the favors he had done for her, and by favors, he meant all the times he saved her, putting his own life at risk. It was something that always bothered the archer, how could he be so inconsiderate, didn't he have that thing called self-respect? It was then, that Yukari became more interested in his story, what kind of events led him to be what he was.

- Or he just has the syndrome of a savior - Yukari said to herself. She didn't want to imagine what he would be going through in that tower, he had to survive no matter what, he had to!

She couldn't help but think, how despite how things ended in that meeting, where the origin of the Dark Hour was revealed. Despite all that, he did not hesitate to go to save them, and so once again, he risked his life, his own happiness, over theirs.

She knew she would not be able to fall asleep so soon, so she jumped out of bed. Looking for something very special to her, which always helped her, at times like this, not to lose hope. Now she held in her hands the thing that was sacred to her.

- It's as if my worst fears keep coming true... Am I a fool for believing in trust and friendship? Dad... I don't know how many times I will have read this letter - and that day, it was to be one read once more.

March 6, 2000. To my family
Tomorrow I will take this letter to the Moonlight Bridge opening ceremony. It will be kept in a time capsule and sent ten years from now. Yukari...You are very young now, but in ten years, you will be sixteen years old and going to high school.

No matter how many times I read the same letter, I always felt a knot forming in her chest. I never got to say goodbye to him, on the terms she wanted.

I know you've been sad because I've been working late, but you always greeted me with a smile. I am very proud of you. Mr. Kirijo has appointed me head of research, I will soon start working on an important project and I am happy to be recognized for that...

- Dad, sometimes I think our big mistake. It was putting trust in the wrong people.

But I swear that, for me, there is nothing more important than you and your mother. Yukari, do you still enjoy life? Are you still as optimistic and cheerful as ever? I hope you'll be happy ten years from now, no matter what. Love, Dad

Yukari had to wipe her face, always when she gets to the last part. Tears always threaten to fall down his face.

- I won't give up hope...I must do it for him - Yukari was determined to face everything - I won't back down...I won't be like my mother.

Iwatodai Dormitory - Third Floor, Mitsuru's Room, Morning

The horrible conclusion that had been gradually working its way into her spirit was now a terrible reality. She was completely lost, hopelessly lost in the vast, labyrinthine recess of her mind. Everything she had planned, every minute detail she spent every sleepless night, had been destroyed by two incompetents.

Junpei Iori and Yukari Takeba. Persona users whom I can only describe with one word, idiots. They simply could not comprehend the situation they were dealing with; did they want to be them to begin with? They were just blessed with this power, and they were lucky enough to join this team. Helping a great cause, and now they dared to rebel against everything she had "built" She was not going to tolerate such behaviors.

Minato Arisato, someone who came from nowhere, with a mysterious past. That was all for Mitsuru, and yet he was better at everything than she was. Frustrations that only increased during Full Moon operations.

Fighting hand to hand, against the Emperor's Shadow. The same Shadow, who only humiliated her, shattered her pride. All her experience with his Persona, was of no use against that powerful Shadow. But for him, it was no challenge, only two months in the team, only that time was enough to face a shadow like that.

She tried to convince Ikutsuki that they were wrong, that it was her, and only her! Who was right in all this, why risk their lives for a simple stranger? Once again, her plans did not go as she wanted.

Ikutsuki wanted to take all the blame, something she would not be willing to accept. The urgency of the situation demands it, as do her principles. Kirijo doesn't want to face his father's harshness, but she doesn't want to blame Ikutsuki either.

Ikutsuki gave her his full support. She wouldn't even know how to explain to herself where she is getting the strength from. Carefully and slowly, with trembling fingers, she dials the appropriate number. She didn't have to wait long, for him to answer the call. She knew she had to get started, and that's what she was going to do.

- Good morning, Father. I hope I didn't disturb you - Mitsuru despite how nervous she was. She had to maintain a serious composure, or it was going to end badly between the two of them.

- What's the matter Mitsuru? It's unusual for you to call at this hour - asked Takeharu. He couldn't help but feel puzzled at first, but his feelings as a father came out. He was worried about his daughter.

- I have to report several events that have occurred, during this day. Many are related to the team and Tartarus - Takeharu had his full attention. He knew his daughter's potential, and for her to come to him. It meant only one thing, she needed help or so he wanted to believe.

- We had a meeting where we were going to discuss about the change of leader in our team - a news he was not expecting. Ikutsuki always kept him in the loop, and so far, they hadn't had any problems with the current leader

- Who was going to be the new leader, for the exploration of Tartarus? - asked Takeharu

- Of course, me - answered Mitsuru without being able to hide a smile. Something that faded as quickly as it appeared, remembering that her leadership lasted so little - The rest of the team are not able to understand it. That I should have the leadership

- I don't understand... Why just now, is there a change of leader? All the operations have been successful, no one has died.- even though Mitsuru couldn't see it. Something told her the somber look he would have on his face.

- During our meeting...It came to light, the origin of the Dark Hour and Tartarus. A truth that our former leader, Minato Arisato. Could not process it in the right way...

- Because he lost his parents, because of the explosion in the laboratory ten years ago - now the one who was shocked was Mitsuru.

- Do you know who he is?

- I have never dealt with that boy. However, our most loyal servant is. She knows him, apparently, they both share a history, and she knows about his past - Takeharu answered, the unknowns surrounding the wild card only grew for Mitsuru - Why didn't you ever tell them about our family's past?

- I... I didn't think it was that important. Our goal is to end the Dark Hour, I never saw the need to tell that - Mitsuru clearly heard his father's sigh through the call

- How many times have I told you? None of that is your fault... What happened in the past, has nothing to do with you. You are free from all sin - Takeharu was always ready to accept all the blame for that accident - So, he left the team?

- That's right. And now, he's trapped with the Reaper in Tartarus.

- What? - Takeharu did his best to remain calm. He knew the danger that Shadow represented - Explain the situation to me, how did he get trapped in Tartarus?

- Are you on his side too? - question that only made Takeharu confused - Father, you must understand that he left the team. He is no longer our responsibility.

- What are you saying, Mitsuru? Of course, it's our responsibility, we can't let any more innocent blood be spilled. We must save him, because it is the right thing to do - Since that day, he had vowed to save as many people as he could. A way to calm his nightmares of ten years ago - Now answer my question, what happened?

- All of us team members woke up in Tartarus with no way to defend ourselves. If I'm honest, I suspect it was Persona Users who had to see this. And something tells me, that he was involved in all of this...

- I intend to repeat it just once... I want the truth - the sudden change in Takeharu's tone of voice. It caused Mitsuru to start trembling.

- Or...Is that, what I w-want to believe - Mitsuru was beginning to find it difficult to continue explaining the facts

- We were scattered on different floors. When the Shadows were about to finish us off...He appeared out of nowhere, finishing them off and saving us. During the escape, The Reaper appeared and sacrificed himself so that we could escape...

Mitsuru could hear clearly, the big breath of air his father took through the call, that could only mean bad news.

- Listen to me carefully. I want you to save that boy, I don't care how. If you need resources, I will give them to you, but don't let that boy die - Takeharu ordered.

- But father... He will already be dead when we arrive, no one can escape the Reaper, you know that better than anyone!

- Do you think I care about your opinion? - she froze on her feet. She was not prepared for what was coming - I don't care if you have to make a pact with the demon himself. He sacrificed his life for you, and you will do the same for him.

- We don't have the skills to stand up to the Reaper.

- I'm not asking you to make this operation about killing the Reaper. Your only objective is to rescue your leader.

- What do you mean, leader? Don't you trust my abilities to lead this team? - Mitsuru was dismayed. Even his own father doesn't trust her.

- No, because you don't trust them. The only person you trust is yourself, your false pride, envy. And the only way for such a team is death - Takeharu replied.

- Why are you on their side?

- Because it's the right thing to do - words that Mitsuru had heard so many times from him - I sacrifice his life, for the team's life, for yours! And listen to me carefully, you are not going to lead that team, you will not be the leader. And you never will be, until you get rid of that pride!

- Only the Kirijo Group can stop the Dark Hour!

- The Kirijo Group should be dead - words I don't expect to hear from the man who raised her - I am not speaking to you as your father, but as the leader of this group. If I could give my life, and that of my entire family, to bring back all those innocent people...I would do it without hesitation...

Mitsuru listened to him, standing attentively and embarrassed. She tries to object, but the result is not very good. She knew that whatever she would say, it would be used against her.

- You think because you're my daughter, I won't let these acts pass? - Mitsuru could hear the disappointment in his voice - You are so wrong...All that pride you have, reminds me of your grandfather. Seeing how they sacrifice lives, no matter the consequences...

- Father I...

- Just shut up. No one is saying that the acts you're doing aren't wrong, you want to save everyone. But this is not the way. Remember our family motto, our point of no return after those experiments...Remember that you are not the only one who has suffered, there are people out there, who have had it worse, and yet, they go on with their lives.

Words that described Minato perfectly. A description that she thought was related to her all the time.

- We can't keep living in the past. The only choice we have, is to move forward and face the challenges of life. Our past does not define us, but our actions do.

Every word his father said to him only reminded him more of him. For a moment he thought his father and Minato would get along so well.

- I will talk to Ikutsuki about this operation. Failure is not an option - Mitsuru knew it, there was nothing she could do anymore - One more thing, did you ever deign to get to know him further?

- Why should I, so that I would realize how much better he is in every way? There are people who adore him, despite the short time he's been here. The whole team adores him...They want him to remain their leader...I don't understand…

- Do you know why? Because he doesn't judge anyone by their history or family. He trusts each one of you, he wants to see you grow. He wants you to have the life, that he could never have...Because none of us, had a choice… - were his last words before he hung up the call.

- The life I always wanted to have? - Mitsuru didn't know who the person she was seeing in the mirror was

Was this Mitsuru Kirijo? The student council president? The heiress of the Kirijo Group? The most experienced Persona User in SEES? What was the difference between him and her? Why was he stronger than her? The subtle and elegant way he had of summoning his Personas…

How he always had a plan to be victorious, how he faced his fears in every battle... Why couldn't she be like that?

She thought of all the times Minato could finish her off, he had the trust of the whole team, and never initiated anything against her. He always looked out for the welfare of others, without worrying about himself, he seemed to be...A Messiah.

Even in spite of how their relationship was at the time. He didn't hesitate to ask her to freeze him in Shirakawa Boulevard, to avoid harming others, even her...

- Who are you Minato Arisato, what is your story?

Tatsumi Port Island - Alley, late afternoon

- As boring as ever, huh? - Akihiko went to visit his old friend. Shinjiro, who was sitting on the stairs, looking as gruff as always.

- Hmph... What are you doing here? - Shinjiro had only one idea why he was there. He was tired of me always looking for him for the same reason - If you've come to convince me, forget about it.

- It's not that...I just wanted to know about your life - Akihiko answered, making an impression on Shinjiro. Akihiko proceeded to sit down next to him - We've known each other for a long time...

Shinjiro sighed knowing where this was going, a past he can't get over. The reason for the quest for power, just to protect the weaker ones. He knew that was all a lie

- It's been fourteen years since we met in that orphanage. You, Miki and I... We used to run around here until nightfall. Back then, we thought we had all the time on our hands.

- Heh...You haven't changed a bit... - Shinjiro was still wondering what Akihiko's plan was in all this - If you want to get sentimental, go with your other friends.

- What did you just say!? - Akihiko stood up immediately. He wasn't going to let them insult his friends like that.

- You don't usually dwell on the past. It's normal for you to jump in like a jerk. So, it's clear that you want something

Akihiko sometimes cursed how well Shinjiro knew him. He could never hide anything from him, he always knew what his intentions were whenever he came looking for him.

- We have discovered the way to put an end to the Dark Hour and Tartarus - Shinjiro could only gape at such news - The truth is, lately I've only been thinking about becoming stronger...But yesterday, someone made me question that ideal.

- Everyone has their own. But if you don't have a good reason, you can always give up... Like I did - a decision Shinjiro made a long time ago, and he doesn't regret it.

- I'm not like you - unlike him. He'll find a way to overcome his past - I can't believe I'm the one taking the heat for all this...

- Tell me, what do you really want? - Shinjiro got straight to the point

- I need your help. This time, I'm not here to convince you to join the team. I'm asking you, to help me rescue someone.

- Huh? You, asking for my help? That's an unusual thing to see... You know my answer.

- Come on Shinji! Just this once! - Shinjiro didn't understand why he was so desperate - I need to help him, since... Thanks to him, I'm still alive.

- Who is it?

- Minato, our leader. It's the boy with blue hair that you met at the hospital - It had been a long time since Shinjiro saw that look on Akihiko's face. A look in which he showed his weakness.

- ...Give me a reason

- Because he is my friend! He is always willing to help everyone, without getting anything in return. He grew up in an orphanage, he knows our pain better than anyone. And now... He's stuck in that tower with no help! I can't live with myself if I don't do anything about it!

Shinjiro understood that he was serious thanks to his look. Not the same stupid look he always gave when it came to fighting the Shadows. He wasn't interested in that, for the first time in his life, he wanted to help the weakest, the one who needed it the most.

There were things he couldn't understand about Minato. Since he had arrived, all sorts of things had happened. And it seemed to have changed most of them for the better... What was so special about that person?

He still remembers when he didn't hesitate to stand up for his friends. It reminded him of him, when he defended his closest people...

- Aki, this Minato guy, does he remind you of anyone?

- Yes... He reminds me of you - answered Akihiko.

He was right. Few interactions, yet they seemed to understand each other's pain. Coping with it in different ways

- Let me think about it... But no promises

Paulownia Shopping Center - Police Station, late afternoon

And here, with Kurosawa's intense gaze resting on him. At Ikutsuki's request he came to buy weapons and supplies needed for tonight's operation.

Kurosawa couldn't help but worry about the face of the boy in front of him. He looked like he hadn't slept in days because of the dark area under his eyes. This only confirmed that something had happened and he feared it was related to Minato

- Ummm... I need to ask something - Junpei couldn't feel uncomfortable. Now he understood why Minato was the one in charge of this - Were you the one who called in the dormitory?

- So, they were awake?! - Junpei could only scream internally as he knew it was him. And he thought it was a burglar or worse...

- I'm sorry... I didn't get a good rest - now that I could see him better. It seems that the officer also had more dark circles under his eyes than usual - I am worried and I don't know what to do.

- Is something wrong? - Junpei asked with every intention of helping as much as he could.

- Have you heard from Minato? - Iori was in a mental dispute whether to tell the truth or lie that he was sleeping... Something that would be very credible if we talk about Arisato - Yesterday he disappeared like a ghost, and he left his things here.

Kurosawa made visible the suitcase Minato had when he last left the dormitory. Junpei's mind lit up understanding the situation. Minato had stopped here, that's why he managed to get to Tartarus quickly.

In his mind he was determined to lie to the officer, so as not to keep him worried anymore. But then he remembered, it was because of the lies that Minato ended up leaving the dormitory. He was not going to allow his image to resemble that of a certain redhead.

- You see... Minato is trapped in that tower we always explore, surrounded by many monsters - Junpei opted for the truth.

- You left him there? - the officer's question was with threatening intent

- No, no, no! ... A lot happened last night and it didn't end well. I know it may sound silly, but he's always been our hero. He saved our lives and in return he's trapped in that tower.

- It's not silly... Like father, like son, isn't it, Sakuya? - Kurosawa motioned for Junpei to follow him.

Iori couldn't help but whistle at the sight of the weapons at his disposal. For a moment he was glad to see a new sword. But something that caught his attention was the picture of a family on the officer's desk.

- I didn't know he was married - Junpei commented openly looking at the photo. He frowned as he noticed the child, a very familiar blue hair - I want to believe I'm wrong ha-ha…

- Well, you're not. That child you see there, is Minato - Kurosawa was surprised by the reaction of Iori who banged his head against the table - ... Are you okay?

- Yes - answered Junpei. The blow was so hard that blood started to come out of his head... - I mean no! Why do you have this picture?! Are you some kind of a psycho?!

- Are you stupid or something? - Junpei felt a Deja vu with that question - His parents... They were friends of mine. We went to the same high school.

- This is crazy... Wait a minute! You mean you recognized Minato the first time? - Junpei for the first time looked like a real detective, he had hit the nail on the head - Why didn't he ever say anything?

- Ten years had passed since the last time I had seen him - Kurosawa took a seat, taking off his cap showing his hair. For the first time in front of Junpei - I was there the day of the accident... Or rather, I was late when it all happened. I took care of Minato for the first few days before he was transferred to an orphanage outside the city.

- You recognized him, but he... He never told us about you - Junpei had realized. That his friend's story was a mystery.

- If you want to ask me what happened during those ten years. I wouldn't know what to answer. I don't know, just like you, what happened with that boy during that time - Kurosawa sighed at the lack of information.

- If I may... What were his parents like? - Junpei allowed himself that audacity

- Sakuya, his father. We were childhood friends and he was always looking to play the hero whenever he got a chance. Most of the time he passed on dating women, he said it was a pain in the ass - it was like seeing if Minato and Akihiko were one and the same.

- His mother, Makoto, on the other hand. We had the chance to meet her in high school, Sakuya was stunned by her beauty. It was the first time I saw him so nervous; he couldn't even shake hands with her - the room was filled with laughter from both people.

- But don't let her beauty fool you, she was a woman with well-formed values. If someone tried to go too far with her, you could be sure that you would end up in the sickroom. But in spite of that, she always meant well.

- Wow, they certainly sounded like the perfect couple - Junpei's comment only brought laughter to Kurosawa's face.

- A very passive and simple man relating to a strong-willed woman. I guess it's true what they say, handsome poles attract - a sad countenance appeared on Kurosawa - Those two, they started dating during the cultural festival. Sakuya was armed with egg and confessed.

- And they had their first beautiful kiss... Long live love - Junpei wasn't sure why he had said that. He had sounded like a certain string master

- She kissed him after she had punched him in the face - Kurosawa answered.

- What a unique confession...

- That was supposed to be her "way" of saying that she also felt the same - Junpei could only think that Minato had unique parents - Are those weapons you need to save Minato?

- Yes, tonight we will perform so far. Our most important operation

- In that case. You can take all the weapons you need; I won't charge you for any of them - Junpei couldn't believe what he just heard.

- Really?! That doesn't generate any loss for you? - He knew it was a good deed. But, still, he felt really bad about accepting it. After all, this was an additional income he was getting.

- Whatever you want right now, it's yours. But in return, I'll ask for something...Save Minato.

- Take him for granted

Iwatodai Dormitory - First floor, hallway, night

It was the first time in her life, that she was so dedicated to study about something. She was a regular student, and that was enough for her. But this was not about an exam, but about death itself.

She could not believe how much information there was on the internet about death. Like every region, it had its own representation of death.

Besides the fact that she wanted to erase from her mind, how she acted impulsively when Minato managed to find her. She was so unprotected that she reflexively went to hug him.

Apparently, Minato was not used to physical contact, she had noticed how tense he became when he received the hug. How difficult it was to be the leader

Her concentration on this quest was such that she failed to notice the person sitting next to her. She wouldn't be so worried, realizing that it was a total stranger, who had entered the bedroom, as if it was his house. Although by their appearance, they seemed to be of the same age, was it a friend of Minato's?

He was a boy with bright red hair and blue eyes. He was wearing a sport shirt with a jacket tied at the waist, three-quarter pants, shoes and a small bag on his back. She didn't know how he managed to get into the bedroom, and no doubt, a lot of thoughts were resting on her mind at the time.

- Can I help you with anything? - Fuuka wanted to stab herself mentally, what kind of question was that to a stranger?

- Actually, nothing - replied the guy, without taking his eyes off her. Which made Fuuka only more uneasy.

- Who are you? - Fuuka asked again, showing a nervous laugh. That she herself didn't know why she was doing it.

- Uh, do you need an introduction or something? My name is Sho. Sho Minazuki - one of the worst introductions Fuuka has ever heard. And that she thought, the first time she met Junpei, it was kind of weird - Excuse me, where's old Ikutsuki?

The surprise came to Fuuka when she heard the chairman's name, was he an acquaintance of his? It was then that her mind clicked, remembering what he had said about supposed help. At the time, she didn't think much of it, but now she understood everything.

Fuuka couldn't hide her happiness, she grabbed both of Sho's hands who was unsuspecting.

- Are you someone who possesses the potential?! - Now the one who was nervous was Sho, at the sudden wave of energy that the navigator felt. He only nodded in response - We're counting on you for tonight's operation, I hope to work well with you.

- Is everything all right at home? Or, rather, is everything all right in your head...? - asked Sho who was still confused - The old man was right, there are some very strange people here... What are you doing?

Since he had entered the dormitories, he had felt a great interest in the sound of the keys Fuuka was producing. And also, the fact that she didn't notice his arrival.

- I'm gathering information about the Shadow known as The Reaper - Fuuka replied.

She clearly saw how Sho's eyes formed stars at such news.

- The Reaper?! Will you let me see, please?! - Sho's pleading was something the navigator did not expect. Although, she had to admit that it felt good to have someone see her works and have them recognized.

Fuuka didn't see the problem in showing all the information she had obtained. Sho for his part, read every word and analysis. A smile appeared on his face, he seemed to enjoy this moment.

- He uses two revolvers? It doesn't look anything like what people think it looks like... Wow, you can walk through walls?! - Sho's excitement knew no bounds. That information, it seemed to be a bible to him, so sacred.

- He is also able to communicate unlike the rest of the Shadows - said Fuuka.

- Really? what kind of Shadow is he? I'd give anything to see his once - Sho commented, still smiling - What else can you tell me?

- Not much...During the first meeting, I didn't notice any murderous intent in him. He seemed to be lost - another question Fuuka asked himself. It all started when Mitsuru mentioned him and the hunt began.

- Is he that strong?

- Yes... He's the strongest Shadow I've seen so far. I doubt we will ever be able to defeat it.

- No, nothing is impossible - a comment from Fuuka was not expected - Power has no limits. That is the meaning of our existence, to fight until our names are heard up to the sky...That is what it means to be a Persona User.

There was a small moment, where that same energy Sho was transmitting. He reminded his leader that they have to save at all costs.

- Fuuka, I need to talk yo- Yukari couldn't continue talking, noticing Sho's presence - Who are you? - the archer couldn't help but get on her guard

- Sho, it's about time you showed up! - a laugh at Ikutsuki as he walked down the stairs.

- Do you know him president? - Yukari asked in confusion

- Father! - Sho jumped with joy at the sight of Ikutsuki.

- HOOOOOWW?! - the screams of both girls were not long in coming. Whichever way you look at it, they didn't look anything alike! It was enough to observe the color of their hair.

Several footsteps were heard descending. It turned out to be Akihiko and Junpei, who had a bat in his hands. Alarmed by the screams of the girls.

- What the hell happened?! - Junpei was the first to ask. His face went blank at the sight of Sho hugging Ikutsuki - Since when are there red-haired boys in this dorm?

- Alright everyone, it's time for a meeting. It's time to introduce him properly, I'm sure they're going to get along great! - said Ikutsuki

Iwatodai Dormitory - Command Room, night

- Nice to finally meet you SEES. My name is Sho Minazuki, like you I possess the potential and I have only one thing to tell you... Let's make our enemies suffer! - an unusual presentation

- And I thought this day couldn't get any crazier - Junpei's words. They were a perfect description of how the rest of them felt.

- Didn't they like me? - Sho asked with an arched eyebrow. I could tell he was a little upset.

- That's not it! - Yukari stepped in to clarify the situation - It's just that... It's hard to see Ikutsuki-san as a father.

Ikutsuki-san's laughter was not long in coming

- So, how do you see me? - Ikutsuki was interested to know. How the team saw him

Everyone wanted to say that he was a strange, gloomy person, who always told bad jokes in the worst situations... In the end, no one dared to say it.

- I know, he always makes bad jokes - it was his own son who finally said it - He's so childish.

- Look who's talking. My son who has an unquenchable thirst to fight against the Shadows.

- That's my reason for living! - Sho proclaimed raising both arms - Tell me, who is the strongest of the team?

- Junpei, don't you dare say it's you... - Akihiko had read his intentions perfectly - He's the person we're going to save today.

- Normally I'd say he's weak, but considering the Shadow we're about to fight... I can understand that - Sho seemed very sympathetic - Well, until it's Dark Hour, I'd like to know more about you guys

Yukari gave Junpei small taps to get him started. After all, he was the leader of this operation.

- I like tall women with big butts - once again. Silence fell in the room. It turned out that Junpei was concentrating on other things, I could blame it on the nerves he was feeling about tonight.

- Ah I see. A man of culture, we're going to get along very well - Sho seemed happy about that "introduction" - Although if the girl is stronger, so much the better.

- It's interesting to meet a brother - Junpei was starting to speak like a sage - What are your favorite measurements?

- Do you use measurements to classify them? - Sho seemed to be impressed

- What?! Come on! Every man should know that kind of information... Wait, don't be surprised if Akihiko or Minato don't get it - said Junpei.

- You can tell I have to learn a lot. The only thing I know is from the magazines I was stealing from the lab - statements that confused everyone.

- Sho, don't stray from the topic. Remember the reason why you are here - Sho looked down at what seemed to be a warning from Ikutsuki.

- Ummm... Sorry about that - Sho bowed apologetically.

- Oh, come on, no need to be so formal - Fuuka tried to calm the situation down a bit - I am Fuuka Yamagishi. My Persona is in charge of Shadow analysis, it's not made for combat... Oh yeah, my Arcane is Priestess.

- Wait, all this time I was talking to the weakest of the team? - Fuuka nodded - What ironies of life. Well, my arcane is Sun. I'm specialized for close combat. I'm counting on you.

- I see this place hasn't changed a bit - just like Sho's presence. No one expected him to arrive

Junpei, Yukari and Mitsuru recognized him instantly. All three were shocked that he was here. For the first two, they didn't expect him to have the potential while for Mitsuru, she didn't think she would ever see him again, after what happened that day...

- Shinji! - Akihiko couldn't believe it. If he had come - Thank you man

- Anyway... - that was Shinjiro's way of saying "You're welcome".

- Alright, now that we are all gathered. We are ready to start this operation - Ikutsuki fixed his gaze on Junpei - Now a word from our leader, show off!

- I'm sure Minato would do better... But to hell with it - Junpei took a big breath of air.

- When you fight, it doesn't matter how many enemies you kill. If you fail to protect what you're supposed to protect, that's when you lose. Minato taught us when he risked his life... He couldn't stand up to the Reaper, but I'm sure that idiot counted it as a victory, and you know why? Because we're alive, thanks to him

Yukari couldn't help but show a small laugh. He had really shown off, the Junpei they met at the beginning of April was no more. Minato had done a great job... In fact, with everyone.

- The fact that we are able to give our all, is a unique talent - Junpei was mentally grateful to have read that manga when he had the chance - And don't forget... Believe in yourself. Not in the me who believes in you. Nor in the you that believes in me. Believe in the you... that believes in yourself!

Akihiko suddenly stood up and began to clap his hands. Junpei's words had taken effect. It was time to put all his effort into this, for Minato's sake.

Junpei couldn't help but grin like an idiot when the rest also copied the same acts as the boxer. He doesn't know how he was able to hold back the tears.

- Let the operation begin! - Each of them left the room. Wielding their weapons, determined to perform a miracle.

Now only Yukari was left, who was controlling her breathing. She was scared. Failure was not an option this day, she was not going to fail, for dad and for him!

- Minato-kun... In this world there are many people who enjoy being alone, but there is not a single person who can endure loneliness. I know, because I've felt like that too - Yukari said to herself, before leaving the room.

The operation had begun. It was time to save his friend and unbeknownst to her. In the room was a blue butterfly, as a sign of good luck.

Tartarus - Yabbashah Block, floor 67

At the rate they were going, it seemed that the possibility of getting out alive, was no longer crazy. Minato found it strange that the entire journey so far, they hadn't encountered any shadows. Although in his inner voice he was grateful for it, if he had to face any of them, he knew he wouldn't live another day.

He was also not pleased with the blood he had lost. There were times when his eyes began to spin and that was not a good sign. His strength was running out.

- Orpheus, how are you feeling? - Minato asked

Orpheus was flattered by the concern his friend was showing. Always trying to act tough and that nothing mattered to him. The string master could clearly see through his wall, he was an angel pretending to be a demon.

Before Orpheus could respond, the wall of the hallway shattered into pieces. Leaving a glimpse of the Reaper who had found them.

Orpheus was not fast enough to act. His head was slammed violently against the ground, he could only watch as he grabbed Minato and sent him flying against another wall knocking him unconscious.

Orpheus' helplessness could only grow, even though he wanted to do something, he couldn't do it, he was too weak, like that time he couldn't save Eurydice.

- I don't plan to repeat the same mistake! - the Reaper seemed to be amazed by Orpheus' will. Little by little, he was counteracting his strength.

The Reaper had no intention of letting them escape from him, once again. One shot was enough to shred part of Orpheus' face, but he still wouldn't budge.

Another shot to his leg, shattering it completely, and despite that, Orpheus showed no signs of giving in to the brutal force they were exerting on him.

- Minato, run! - the Reaper could feel Orpheus' fear with those words.

Orpheus had the slightest hope that he would manage to wake up and leave him. He would not be displeased, he had to live another day. He was not going to let his promising life end this way.

- Go away - Pharos was the hero least expected by all.

He only had to touch the sack that covered his head, and unexpectedly chains burst from the walls of the Tartarus. Dragging the Reaper and disappearing from everyone's sight.

- I just bought you time, take advantage of it. But don't think this was for free - no one cared what Pharos said.

Orpheus with what little strength he had left, grabbed Minato's body. Carrying him away from the screams of the Reaper.

Tartarus - Yabbashah Block, floor 69

Orpheus could barely move. After all, it wasn't an easy job to move when you were missing a leg and a part of your face; and with the constant fear of disappearing. Minato still showed no signs of waking up, if he disappeared, they were finished, something he prayed would not happen. He could not bear another loss in his life.

He was sure that if Minato heard him, he would say he was crazy. Over time, he began to see him as his son, his paternal instincts kicked in, and he is always willing to help him in any way necessary. Being the father, he could never be

- If this is going to be the end...I need you to be honest with me, for once, in your miserable existence - Orpheus' words made an impression on all of them. Sharing glances, they were apparently trying to make a decision.

- What do they intend to say? - the question came from behind the Shadows. Confused, because they did not recognize that tone of voice, maybe it was Pharos who wanted to play a prank on them.

They could not have been more wrong in their deduction, when they saw a child sitting down. His eyes showed the purest innocence of children, his look of astonishment even, made someone want to give him a hug. Orpheus noticed the silence of the Shadows, something that was not very common for them, what was it that terrified them?

The questions Orpheus asked himself were answered. When he finally managed to visualize that blue hair, which he recognized and admired so much.

- Minato? - Orpheus did not understand, because next to him. The unconscious body of his friend was lying next to him, so why was a boy with the same appearance with him?

- Come on, don't leave me wondering! Just pretend I'm not here - demanded the boy, putting his hands together in supplication - It's just that gossip is one of the passions I love the most in this world.

- Is that you Minato? - asked the emperor.

At the question, the boy innocently pointed to himself, confirming if they were talking to him. The nods of the Shadows confirmed it, he seemed to be impressed that they want to engage him in a conversation, he even seemed to be very happy, for how things were going.

- To answer your question...No, I'm not - he replied with a smile. Making everyone wonder what was going on in the boy's head.

- You idiot! You clearly look just like Minato! - refuted Magician, even he was not capable of saying such things.

The boy saw Minato's body and seemed to be even more impressed. He approached to inspect it from closer, it was like a cat playing with a laser pointer.

- What an idiot I am - the boy couldn't help but laugh out loud - Sorry, I forgot that's my original name. I had gotten used to the other one...Just as you say, I'm Minato Arisato, but I'm better known as Makoto. Nice to meet you - offering his hand as a gesture.

- Makoto you say? - Emperor was confused at the statement. The rest got the same reaction

- Wait a minute, we already know someone who goes by that name - Magician decided to intervene.

- Oh, you must be referring to my mom. That's her name too, I was too lazy to think of a new name. So, I borrowed her name, is there something wrong with that? - asked the boy blinking in confusion

- It's not that... It's just that, there's another one... like you, who calls himself Makoto - answered Magician. Even he wasn't sure if what he just said was explained correctly.

- Another Makoto? - the boy's countenance suddenly changed, causing the others to freeze at such an expression - Excuse me, that person you're talking about, is he wearing a black jacket?

I knew who it was. Silence was the answer that the boy, who now looked angry at that, needed.

- I told him a thousand times not to use that name! It was only supposed to be mine! - No one understood the child's anger, and it was all due to a name.

It was all a representation of a child, throwing a tantrum on the floor, like when you don't buy candy at the supermarkets. Magician wanted to make a joke about it, but thought it was not a good time.

- Hey guys, hadn't we better run away? I don't want that Shadow to make us pure, if he manages to find us here, chatting in the most placid way - Magician's suggestion wasn't bad, they had forgotten for a moment that they were in Tartarus.

- Relax, that Shadow is still far away from us. That's what Endymion tells me - answered the boy, who was still on the ground without any encouragement - What name can I use now, will daddy be angry if I use his…?

- Did you say Endymion!? - all the Shadows were in total shock, at the mention of the name. Why of all times, did it have to come up right at this moment?

- Hey, not for nothing. But it's not a reason to be so surprised, your situation is more interesting - the boy's calmness simply reminded them of how cheeky Pharos was with them.

- I don't care who you are, I just want to know the truth of it all. What is your real motive, why does someone like Minato have to be going through all this? - Orpheus' words echoed in the heads of everyone present. But for that boy, it only got his attention more.

- You… I like you. Let's be friends, now I'll call myself Sakuya. Nice to meet you Orpheus - Sakuya's happiness, before a new friend, was incomparable - Hey knuckleheads, don't be mean to my friend and explain. I'm sure his head is spinning a lot.

- I would appreciate it if you would stop making so many references to my head - Orpheus always felt disgusted at that, it didn't bring back very good memories.

- We don't know where to start - all the Shadows were trying to find the right way to start telling a brutal origin story, or so they wanted to think.

- Well, obviously, at the beginning - now they were sure that Sakuya would get along so well with Magician.

Emperor was the first to approach Orpheus. He was mindful of the time they had been allowed, beating around the bush wouldn't help matters. Just the truth

- This child here. He represents Minato's early years as a Persona User when he intervened in the fight against SEBEC. He was only about 4 years old when he entered this world - that made Minato the most experienced User.

Orpheus always knew there was something special about him. From his first explorations in this tower, he always knew how to move well in this environment. His mind has forgotten it, but his soul still remembers all his war against the Shadows.

- Don't worry, my parents helped me too. They were super strong, believe it or not - Sakuya whenever he spoke, he couldn't help but smile.

- What, you mean your parents were Persona Users too?! - Jack Frost anticipated the question Orpheus was about to ask.

- That's not all. After those events, his parents sought a way to get him away from the Shadow world. After all, that was not the environment for a child.

If Orpheus had been in the same position, he would have done the same thing. Being a parent is not an easy task and no one assures you of the mistakes you will make while raising a child.

- But fate is a bitch... Minato was once again involved in a conflict, this time against Nyarlathotep. It was at that time, that Minato Arisato had his first "death" and that is represented with Sakuya...

Sakuya upon hearing the name, greeted his new friend while carefully checking the place.

- What are you trying to say? - Orpheus would be lying if all this didn't sound crazy.

- A new world doesn't assure you that all things will remain the same. The fate that awaits you may be the same. However, that may entail several changes in their lives and the relationships they have led up to that time...

- That is why they have different Personas...They are the same subject, but their souls are different because of their personalities - Emperor nodded at Orpheus' understanding.

- To take down Nyarlathotep. Makoto had to make a crucial decision and that was to make a pact. Once again, his memories were erased and the life of the Minato we know began... In other words, his second "death".

- Sorry - Orpheus didn't understand why he was apologizing to Minato.

- This was just a summary of what happened to him. I know you want more answers Orpheus, but we are sure he will tell you everything in due time - the answers they so badly needed to all their mysteries. They lay in him.

- Wait a minute, you said he didn't fight alone. Meaning, there are more users?

- Yes... And there will come a time when both teams will meet him again.

- Oh shit, time to disappear, good luck Orpheus! - Sakuya disappeared as if he had thrown a smoke bomb.

By the time Minato had managed to wake up. Before Orpheus could express his happiness, he was pierced through and disappeared instantly. It was as if Minato had woken up just for the moment of his death.

He could clearly hear the cries of despair from all his Persona. They were begging to be invoked to help him, that it should not end that way.

Their shadows screamed behind the Reaper, words of encouragement for him to draw strength from beyond to escape once more. That wasn't going to work anymore

Minato couldn't take it anymore; all his reserves had reached zero. He had lost so much blood in this whole escape, it was so frustrating for him not to have made it, when there was so little left.

He thought he was never going to get attached to anyone again, and the only thing on his mind, was to be with them once more; it was strange to him, that even Mitsuru was in on those plans, maybe going for therapy, wasn't such a bad idea after all.

He felt the cold metal of stirring on his forehead. A sensation that sent vibrations throughout his body.

He could only close his eyes waiting for his fate. He mentally laughed at a joke he remembered from Junpei, at the time he thought it was bad, but now he found it funny.

If he was going to die, he had to do it smiling. He was sure that was what his parents wanted and maybe she did too?

- What is the meaning of this, why are there two Minato Arisato? - The question from the Reaper who was confused, caused Minato to open his eyes without understanding the situation.

That's when he saw him to his right. Makoto had finally appeared, since he had taken control of his body and his eyes showed the same confusion as he did.

- Can he see Makoto? Then why wasn't he able to see my Shadows? ...None of this makes any sense!

- I demand an explanation! Why are there two of you?! - the Reaper asked again. Confirming the suspicions of both of them, he was able to see Makoto.

The Shadows also made an appearance, confused as everyone else. Magician began to beckon the Reaper; however, he did not seem to be able to notice their presence. Every word that came out of the Reaper, increased the mystery surrounding him and it was all linked to the wild card.

- Why did you only pursue me? - Minato asked. Since they had met, he had noticed his interest in him, but given the chase, he had decided to ignore it. The only visible eye of the Reaper rested on him, apparently, he was judging him, trying to see if the question he had just been asked was serious.

- Let me change the question, where is Maya Amano? - asked the Reaper. The only one confused of all was Minato, who knew the name from the game Junpei gave him as a gift.

The reaper looked at Makoto's face, who was in shock.

- I see... It's happened once again - commented the Reaper. Bringing his revolver to his head and shooting himself in the process, without even showing any reaction of pain.

Once again, he pulled the trigger. But this time, it was not for himself, all those who saw the place where he was aiming, implored that his sight had deceived them, that it was all a cruel lie of destiny. They all looked at the same time and their worst fears came true.

It was Minato who had been shot, directly in his chest. His white shirt began to turn the color of his blood, both the Shadows and Makoto were aware that they could do nothing.

Minato, for his part, stared in horror at his chest area. Bringing his hand to his chest would not stop the bleeding, it was useless. He knew it was a direct and clean hit, there was no way he could survive something like that, his luck had run out. Before he knew it, he began to spit up blood and his vision was becoming increasingly blurred.

There is a famous belief that many people who have been on the verge of death claim that they left their body or that they saw a bright light or a beautiful place. There are even certain works, there are those who consider such experiences "a privileged glimpse of another dimension".

Another of those famous myths, is to see your whole life flash before your eyes. From your childhood to the moment you are dying, seeing all your successes and failures, a summary of your own life. But he, he wasn't seeing any of that, just eternity darkness.

- Minato, Minato, Minato! Come on, answer! - Makoto's voice was barely audible to him, what was he trying to tell him?

His parents, Hiroshi, Naoto, Kotone, Shiori, Orpheus, Apsaras, Omoikane, Oberon, the Jack Brothers, Valkyrie, Fortuna, Pixie, Pale Rider, Nekomata. People who always helped him on his way, and he could never thank them properly, a regret he was going to leave with.

His head was spinning, he was sure it was his Persona, trying to cheer him up even at this moment. He could no longer hear them. Ironic, he always wished for silence, but here he was, wishing to hear them once again, those entities that had helped him so much in these months

Magician, Priestess, Empress, Emperor. Shadows that only gave him headaches and, even so, he managed to appreciate them with time.

Junpei, a boy who was not afraid to talk to him and was his first friend in a long time. Fuuka, that person who always wished well for everyone, she just needed to socialize more. Akihiko, the idiot in search of power so he could defend the weakest, was a good person.

- What the hell were they thinking!? - the Reaper wondered, once again, anger had taken over - And that's how dare they call themselves a team?!

Makoto wasn't understanding anything the Reaper was saying, and he didn't care either! He didn't want to imagine what Minato was feeling, his gaze no longer emitted any light.

Even Mitsuru came to her mind, couldn't things between the two of them have been different? And the last person in the group, that pink archer for whom it all started. A person, with whom he could share her pain, but never did. If only he had one more chance, he would tell her everything, as promised.

- Never give up, follow your ideals to the end, but never forget above all things to smile. Smile for me Yukari

Before Makoto's eyes, the whole environment was silent. He watched as every slightest movement that Minato presented, had disappeared. He was dead and he could do nothing to avoid it.

- I swear I'll kill you! I'll make your worst fears come true! I don't care if I have to come back from hell itself!

- Don't worry, I already died once and it was at the hands of your dear leader, Tatsuya - a name that made all the rage Makoto felt, vanish in a puff.

A hired killer, whom the caller summons by dialing his own cell phone number. Makoto knew very well who it was, the grudge he held against the two names he mentioned only confirmed his identity.

- No, no, no... NO! ...It must be a damn joke... Sudou?! - all the Shadows looked horrified at each other. A name they knew very well and so did Makoto.

- You deserve praise, terror incarnate. I must say, we have a lot to talk about, don't you think?

- Don't think I'm going to engage you in conversation! Not after what you did to Minato!

- Explain to me Mr. Perfect, why are you still here? - I asked Makoto to realize the situation.

With Minato's death, he too was supposed to disappear like the rest. However, here they were still on the earthly plane.

- I'll say it again, you haven't changed a bit. You are still oblivious, in the most important thing.

All the Shadows could not help but cry out in surprise. Minato's body was starting to be surrounded by energy, an ability they all knew well, it was a healing one

- The only way I can heal, is to shoot the target, what good would you do me dead? I need answers too - the Reaper said by way of explanation.

Makoto, against all odds, never thought he would converse with him. In the past, if they had seen each other, even for a few seconds, they would certainly have gone to a death match.

- That's all right. Sad man, you can't exist without blaming everything around you. I'm all ears - an answer that pleased the Reaper. That he completely forgot his goal to kill him and make him suffer.

Tartarus - Entrance, Beginning of the Dark Hour

The moment they had been waiting for so long, had finally arrived. The only one who seemed calm was the new member. He had at his mercy a pair of katanas that have rings on each hilt, and the blade of each katana has a serrated edge on a section just before the hilt.

Ikutsuki had made it clear to them, failure was not an option in this operation. It seems that even someone like him had developed an affection for the wild card.

They had a plan to follow, they had been waiting so long to execute it. They had spent so many hours going over every detail, all in order, to succeed. To get their friend to come back to them once again. They knew it wasn't going to be easy, but they weren't willing to accept something like that.

- This must be a joke - Fuuka could not help but comment in horror at the scene.

No one believed what they were seeing in front of them. A whole horde of Shadow that seemed to be protecting the entrance to the tower, it's like, the universe was conspiring against them at every turn

- This is what I've been waiting for! - Everyone was confused by Minazuki's excitement. Showing a big smile in front of all his enemies, which reminded them a little bit of the boxer of the group - It's time my dear friend, it's time to cause the destruction of our enemies! Come to my call, Keres!

Her name meant doom. A pretty pale-skinned woman appeared among everyone, they thought she was an angel, even Junpei had fallen in love with her appearance.

- She's so cute - Junpei couldn't let go of that comment, provoking laughter from Sho

- This is just the beginning. You haven't seen the best yet - Sho did nothing to hide his excitement. The rest wondered how his father was someone who made such bad jokes.

Her Persona began to cry blood to everyone's surprise, which surrounded every part of his body. Sudden movements as if she was possessed, everyone was uneasy when they began to hear growls caused by her and a big smile, showing her fangs.

She was a dark being with bloody clothes, teeth and gnashing claws, a great thirst for human blood. A long hair that was the envy of women, from her back sprouted two large crow-like wings and most importantly, wielded a scythe as if it were death.

The laughter that this being showed, resembled Sho's very much. They understood instantly, both individuals, their reason to exist, was to finish off their enemies, the perfect subjects for war.

- What are they waiting for, it's time to summon their Personas! - Junpei wasn't going to waste time, trying to give him an order.

- Let the operation begin! - Everyone obeyed the order of the new leader. Each one summoning his Persona, ready to fight.

Tartarus - Yabbashah Block, floor 69

- You know, it was impossible to reason with you. You had no remorse in sacrificing someone, you were crazy, quick to anger, why am I talking to you in the first place? - Makoto found the situation he was in absurd.

Here he was, chatting placidly, as if it were teatime. With one of his worst enemies

- This tower changes people. Even assassins like me, the only thing I wish for is peace - answered the Shadow, sincere in front of everyone. Something Makoto could not quite believe.

- Yeah right... Changing people, that didn't stop you from chasing me for a whole hour, just to kill me. But as they say, change is a process that takes time.

Makoto had shared all the information he knew. I didn't trust him, but it was the only way to end up killing them, everything had to be handed to him on a silver platter. Things that bothered Makoto.

- Is this an infinite loop? I always thought you guys were smarter than me, that you always learned from your mistakes. In the end I was wrong - honest comments from the Shadow, which hurt Makoto's pride a little. But they contained the whole truth

- I'm beginning to believe, that the word peace. It will never be able to relate to me - commented Makoto, something Sudou agreed with.

- Are you aware that, despite all these years, I still intend to kill you? - an answer that did not surprise Makoto. To be honest, he was also planning to do the same, if he had a chance.

- I am the worst of terrors, I am the darkest of days. I'm the last one standing of us all, so don't try, to stand in my way - a comment that seemed more like a threat from Makoto - Because I've fought the best, you only have to see my face to know that.

- If you think you can control me, you should give it up - Magician couldn't help but be frightened by the aura they were both giving off. He was praying that he wouldn't start a new chase when everything was going so well.

- Look around you and tell me what you really see. Because when your time is up and everything falls apart, it'll just be you and me. And there will be no one, to save you. You are alone in this

- I am aware of that Sudou. I know it, since I accepted all the punishments that day - the Reaper seemed to be impressed by that answer.

- No one can escape his eternal punishment, not even Philemon's chosen ones - said the Reaper.

- You are wrong... It is possible, by making a pact - replied Makoto. The Reaper could only laugh at that explanation.

- You are the most insane being I have ever met... What about your previous pacts?

- My pact with Leviathan has no effect on the punishment that was to befall everyone. I have told you everything I know Sudou...Answer me, how did you manage to escape from Morimoto Sanatorium?

- I made a pact Nyarlathotep. I didn't fulfill the conditions, and I'm paying for my sins, through this eternal punishment - Makoto couldn't believe what he just heard.

He had heard a lot of crazy things throughout his journey. Like every member of his team, he made mistakes, but he had no idea what to say or how to react. Nyarlathotep was a bastard and they both knew it; he didn't want to know the reasons why he made that decision.

- Don't you dare feel sorry for me. You and I, we will never get along. We will be eternal enemies, and no more discussion - was not going to be weak in front of someone like Makoto

- The Dark Hour has begun, so much for that - surprise for everyone. They had made it, they had survived - However, I'm not going to help you with that "surprise"

- Surprise? What do you mean? - He didn't take Makoto's question seriously, something that annoyed him a lot. He headed off into the darkness of the tower corridors.

- Retrieve the one that was stolen from you, it will be at that moment, that I will seek to end your existence. Maybe... Just maybe, in that way. My soul can rest in peace - a strange point of view that the Reaper had. Each being sought forgiveness in his own way.

- You are repeating the same story again...Sudou. Or whatever, you call yourself now - Makoto always thought, that the only one harmed, was him. He couldn't be more wrong

- I haven't used that name in a long time...Although, there are some who started calling me in a very interesting way. The Reaper

Sudou disappeared from everyone's sight, they had great information they never expected to find. Now the memories had become a double-edged sword, for, upon retrieving them, the hunt once again would resume. I knew it was a lie, I wasn't going to wait that long.

- What a pathetic name. I'm sure that name is due to the Kirijo Group - Makoto turned his attention back to Minato's body.

He was impressed by that healing spell, every tissue in his body was rebuilding, even the bullets were leaving his body.

Makoto gulped at such a demonstration. He wasn't sure if he could cope with The Reaper in that state, he didn't even have any weaknesses. Someone with such a level was capable of using almighty abilities; all this time, he had been playing with them.

- How the hell are you still alive, Sudou? We all saw how you were killed by Tatsuya, none of this makes sense!

- Tell me about it, I have a lot of information to process - Makoto reacted immediately to that voice - Hello again, name usurper. I never thought we'd meet again!

- What are you doing here? - Makoto was not impressed by his presence.

- Are you an idiot or are you making yourself? You never managed to get rid of me, it's a pity. In spite of everything we shared - Sakuya was offended, but that didn't stop him, showing a smile with all his pride - You know, I feel sorry for our new "me". Now he has to deal with more past lives and all this, it's because of you, Makoto!

- Great, more headaches to endure. If you don't mind, help me wake him up - Makoto had heard enough. His past was now haunting him too

- I'll handle it, I'll just magically disappear and talk to him - Makoto sighed as he disappeared. He had a lot of things to explain when they left this tower.

- What are you worried about? - Emperor asked, curious about Makoto's attitude.

- Can't you see? The past has caught up with us, and I don't know. If Minato will be strong enough to face it, I don't doubt his experience in fighting the Shadows... But when the enemy is not one of them?

Tartarus - Entrance

No matter how many Shadows they ended up with, more kept appearing. They were wasting too much time, at this rate. Once again, the Dark Hour would end with him locked up once again.

- Guys, I'm out of arrows! - Yukari made sure to carry enough for the entire operation. No one expected to encounter this surprise

What made her most uneasy was a group of Shadows near the entrance. There were 5 knights in total, in the center stood out a large golden knight. You didn't have to be smart to realize that this was their boss, and around him were silver knights.

- Look! They started to move - said Sho.

Two silver knights broke their initial formation to address the team.

- Fuuka, start analyzing their strengths and weaknesses. Something tells me this is not going to be easy - Junpei gave the order - Akihiko, Shinjiro with me. It's time to take those bastards down

- What about me? - Mitsuru asked, feeling forgotten.

- You take care of protecting Yukari and Fuuka. I don't trust you enough to be watching my back - replied Junpei without daring to look at her - Sho, you know what to do.

- On the order! - Sho was the first to launch an attack against those Shadows.

This was what Sho was looking for all this time, or so he wanted to believe. An opponent that would overcome him, make him feel the fear, admire him for his fighting style. Not even the training he had received for so many years, was going to work against this knight.

- Such a heavy armor, and, even so. You move so easily, what a thrill! - He didn't care if he was losing. The reason for his existence, was to fight until all his bones were broken.

A quick glance to see how the others were doing. He didn't like it, even though they had wiped out most of Shadows. These knights were stronger than them, they needed to regroup and change strategy. Sho had a bad feeling against that golden knight, he hadn't moved at all, how strong was he?

A thought that only made him more excited.

- Hey, you idiot, what strategy should we take?! - Sho asked while still exchanging clashes with the silver knight.

- Let's just get rid of these Shadows fast! - Junpei was clear. They had to defeat all of them to get into that damned tower.

He had lost count of how many Shadows he had defeated in this operation. Shinjiro and Akihiko were at his side. They were all at their limit

One thing that surprised Junpei was that until this moment he had not seen Shinjiro use his Persona. He had defeated all the Shadows with pure brute force with the help of his axe. Now he could understand why he and Akihiko were so close.

Shinjiro was standing up to one of the knights, his strength was enough to withstand their attacks. Unlike Junpei

- Aki, now! - Akihiko fired his Evoker at Shinjiro's temple.

From the sky fell what seemed to be a huge horse tearing that knight to pieces. Now that I looked at it better. It looked a lot like Akihiko's Persona, only this one had black shades and rode what appeared to be a unicorn.

Shinjiro's Persona began to make strange sounds. Alarming Mitsuru and Akihiko who were well aware of the situation.

- Calm down Castor! - demanded Shinjiro. Finally making it disappear - Damn it...

- One down! - Sho was holding the helmet of the knight he just defeated - Who's next?

- Shinjiro-san go with Yukari to help heal him - Shinjiro wasn't willing to follow orders - I beg you. You are our best card against those things. We need you to be in your best condition.

- Fine - in spite of everything. Shinjiro obeyed the order

- Guys, analysis completed - Fuuka's face showed that it would not be good news - They nullify all magic attacks and are resistant to physical attacks...

- Well Minato, you sure are giving us a headache buddy - Junpei jokingly commented seeing how the other silver knights were approaching them - It's all or nothing!

- Polydeuces! - Akihiko went alone against one of his knights. A suicidal plan

- Way to go cowboy! - Sho was giving support to Akihiko

Junpei had to admit, he was scared. He wondered how Minato could handle all this pressure, that kid was no normal human...

- Junpei - Yukari's voice brought him out of his thoughts. She noticed how scared he was - Finish them hero!

- On the order!

Tartarus - Yabbashah Block, floor 69

Minato was sure, he had died. A very pathetic death, but the place he was in. It did not convince him at all, surrounded by darkness that made it difficult to see, it looked like a ghost town, and any monster could appear at any time.

- Is this heaven? I thought I was going to be surrounded by clouds and angels singing. Unless, of course, I'm in Hell…

- Right now, you stand between the line of life and death - a voice that made all his instincts scream danger. I didn't even have the courage to turn behind him, in fact, I didn't want to know he was behind him, I wanted to live in ignorance at that moment.

- Don't be afraid, he's here to help - Minato was no longer sure to trust Pharos' words. Every time he appeared, something always happened.

In spite of what he thought, his body was against all thought. Afraid for his life, he turned every part of his body slowly. Once again, he was in front of the God of Death wielding his katana.

Minato instinctively jumped back, covering his stomach area with both hands. Remembering the last time they met, when he pierced him like a fish. Not a pleasant memory, and he was more than willing to do something to forget it.

Pharos couldn't help but laugh at such a reaction, it was one of the most absurd things he had ever seen. Thanatos, meanwhile, still had his grim gaze fixed on the wild card.

- Good to see, that you still remember me. Even though, I am never present - Arisato was surprised. Thanatos had made a breakthrough, first talking instead of attacking.

- You are the mystery of my whole life, Thanatos - Minato returned to his normal posture.

- First focus on your past, and then you can settle accounts with me - Minato had nothing to say, it was a good argument - That's not why I brought you here, let's get straight to the point. I want to offer you a pact

- A pact? - even this was a difficult thing to process. The information they knew about the Personas was so scanty, it was as if they were being sent to war without doing an analysis.

- I'll give you a quarter of my power. Well, it's the only thing you can control, without dying trying - Thanatos replied - It's what's known as soul fusion. Unlike soul swapping, you will be in control, or so it goes, in most cases.

- Let me guess, there is fine print in that deal - Thanatos confirmed it, to Arisato's bad luck.

- If you accept this deal, you must be aware of several conditions. It will be for a short period of time, but when the time is up, I cannot ensure that you will still be alive - an answer that did not surprise the wild card at all.

- Before you agree. You should listen to the other conditions - Pharos seemed to have read Minato's mind.

- For this to go through, I need something in return.

- What do I have that you want? - We were talking about the God of Death, a God respected and feared by all mankind, and he a simple high school boy.

- You are an interesting human. Someone who has managed to escape death on multiple occasions, don't you see how valuable you are?

- You know, it's like you want to end my life. For cheating death, even though I don't remember anything - Minato was impressed, how I was taking these situations. They became common in these months - Let him go, what do you want?

- My power in exchange for something very precious to you. You will not be able to visit a place you miss so much, your parents' grave.

- No, no, no! I won't accept that! - Minato didn't even have to think about it. Now that he had finally revisited that place, it would not be taken away from him so easily - I will find another way to get out of this alive.

- Do you think that your current level, you are able to defeat that great Shadow? It's a good deal, just think about it very well - Pharos was looking for a way to persuade Arisato, what were his intentions with this pact?

- I'd say we're good for the moment - an appearance Pharos did not expect. Sakuya greeting in such a childish manner, he was more brazen than the child of death.

Sakuya came dangerously close to Pharos, the latter seemed not to hide his happiness at such an action. Arisato could not help but feel uncomfortable at this. It was then, when he realized something very important, who was the child?

- Who am I? A past life that you have to deal with. You could say I'm Makoto's counterpart. Nice to meet you, I'm Sakuya - he replied without looking away from Pharos. It seemed that they were even going to kiss at any moment - You... I don't like you.

Minato heard clearly, how Pharos' heart broke into a thousand pieces. That naive look he always had, only the purest darkness adorned it; all trace of happiness had been eliminated.

- And to think that all this time, he only had to do that…

- I want you to keep in mind that the pact will remain available until the end of the Dark Hour - the offer still stood, even though he had rejected it. Something didn't quite add up, he thought he would be angrier, but he looked so calm - I'm returning you to your world.

A snap of fingers, and Minato awoke with a start in the halls of Tartarus.

- Minato! - Magician wasted no time grabbing him by the shoulders. His tears seemed to cascade endlessly - It's good to see you, emo bastard!

- That last one wasn't necessary! - answer that only made Magician cry more - What was that all about? I thought I'd already met St. Peter

- Turns out, that Shadow is an old acquaintance. Who will do everything he can to assassinate us - answered Makoto

- Since when are we friends with the Shadows? - Minato was having a little trouble getting to his feet - No offense guys.

- He's a human who managed to become a Shadow - snapped Makoto irritably - This is only going to cause us more trouble. I'm not sure if I'm on his level...

- Does he have a name?

- He calls himself the Reaper. But his real name is Tatsuya Sudou. Remember that name very well, because he's going to be our main nightmare in this tower.

- I don't want to encounter something like that again - Hua Po's trembling voice only made Arisato feel more miserable. He tried to apologize for everything they went through, but in the end, he couldn't say anything.

This only increased Minato's concern. If they decided to continue exploring this tower, sooner or later they would have to flee from that the Reaper. He could barely escape with his life, but what would become of them in the situation he just experienced? He didn't want to imagine, but he wasn't sure if he wanted to be a leader again either. He wasn't ready to face the face of his team again.

And yet, he did not hesitate to risk his life once again, to save them. He knew he wouldn't get any reward for his actions; many would think his ideas were suicidal.

- I must admit, he has tremendous balls! - Sakuya's screams interrupted his therapeutic moment. His face showed the most astonishment he had ever experienced so far.

- What do you mean? Come on, tell all - just like Sakuya. For Magician, gossip was also one of his greatest passions.

- He just rejected a pact with the God of Death. I think he's the only User to do something like that - everyone present was shocked by the news.

- A pact with Thanatos?! Don't you think it's too soon? - It was the first time I had ever seen Empress so distressed.

- He was only offering his a quarter of his power. The conditions were not pleasant at all - despite the short time Sakuya had been with them. He was a great source of information

- Why didn't they ever tell me about those pacts? - asked Minato, who had finally regained the strength to stand up.

- It's a very delicate subject. Extraordinary strength in exchange for something important in your life, and I was only offering you a quarter - replied Emperor. Trying to hide his surprise

- Besides, depending on the amount of power he offers you, the conditions may be more demanding...There aren't many cases, though... - Makoto knew they were talking about him, but he wanted to try to play it cool

- I'm one of those cases! - Sakuya unlike Makoto. He didn't mind revealing it - You should be proud of the pact we made, it was with Leviathan!

- WHAAAAAATTTT?! / WHAAAAATTTT?! - the shouts of Minato and his Persona were not long in coming.

The Most Feared and Powerful Mythological Monster. The sea serpent Leviathan is mentioned several times in the Old Testament of the Bible. Legends about this immense and powerful creature were based on earlier stories about Tiamat, a dragon defeated by the god Marduk in a Babylonian creation myth.

- Don't worry, the conditions were not demanding at all. We were not as traumatized as we are now - no word from Sakuya could calm the surprise - We only offered him a home.

Now the ones who didn't understand were his Shadows. It only made Minato angrier. They knew it from the beginning and never took the delicacy to tell him.

- Hey, is this Leviathan so powerful? - Valkyrie asked

- Leviathan is believed to have been created as one of the first creatures and was one of the three primordial beings that could have great power on earth. The other two were Behemoth and Ziz - explained Pale Rider.

- Most interesting. It was believed that the mighty Leviathan was the most powerful of these three creatures...Dude, you should go to therapy - Magician just shrugged - Also, why the kid keeps looking with murderous intent at Makoto.

- Can you stop blaming me? - Makoto didn't have the intentions to see Sakuya's face.

- Never! I was already used to being called that way, you wretch! - Despite the clear difference in stature. Sakuya seemed at any moment to be trying to bite Makoto like a dog.

- Can you explain to me, what the hell is going on here? - Minato could only ask hoping for more answers that would not cause him, more headaches.

- To keep it simple, we could put it this way. The name usurper also had a reflection of his past life, which is me - Sakuya answered.

Minato was starting to like me, clear answers to understand.

- The point is, I could never make "peace" with him. And now he's here to torment both of us - Makoto was dodging Sakuya's rage.

- Let me get this straight. That kid, who is clearly "me" is also a Persona User. Now I have to deal with several past lives, in addition to my Shadows - the nod from both of them, only caused Arisato to sigh - I just want to go home.

Tartarus - Yabbashah Block, floor 70

- How likely is it that this will happen again? - Sakuya asked. Focusing his gaze on the Dark Hour moon.

- This hallway again? - A memory when things seemed simpler. When they only had to deal with their Shadows, he wouldn't mind repeating that test again - Doesn't it bring back memories?

They were in the same hallway, which allowed a view to the outside. Where he had once been with his team in the operation to rescue Fuuka. The occasion where he first accepted his most charismatic Shadow, Magician.

- If you're trying to piss me off, let me tell you, you succeeded - Empress looked like she was never going to forget the encounter she had that day. When she was turned to ashes

- And then they say I'm spiteful - Magician commented totally offended. He was contradicting himself

There were times when Minato completely forgot that these were his Shadows. There were times when they seemed so alive, that he forgot their purpose. Over time, he learned to appreciate them, to accept his own Shadows.

- It's strange - Makoto's comment brought Minato out of his thoughts - Where are the Shadows?

- I also noticed, when the Reaper was chasing us, do you think it means something? - Minato asked. I expected a denial from Makoto, he was tired of running away from his enemies.

- Let me handle it - Sakuya's smile always got wider, when it came to helping them.

The moment he snapped his fingers of both hands, a large amount of energy left the boy's body. In front of the shocked Minato, the energy formed into a strange image above his head, the size of the largest balloon.

In a small crescent, as if in a cradle, lay a boy in green pajamas, with a yellow scarf around his neck. The white face resembled Minato's, the golden hair shone, and the blue eyes could not close because of the metal clamps that held them. Her legs were wrapped in a black blanket embroidered with stars, and in her left hand she held a small shepherd's crook, more like a rattle.

- Endymion, it's time to work! - he began to make some funny childish sounds, waving his rattle staff. While Sakuya couldn't help but dance

- You know, I thought you would be more surprised - Emperor was surprised by the behavior that Arisato was presenting. I could tell he was starting to take things differently.

Before Minato could say anything, Sakuya's cheerful and childish face changed drastically. Everyone realized that it wasn't good news.

- Ummm, are you Persona Users? - question that caused more impact on Minato

- Is it them? No way... Why would they come back? I don't even belong to the team anymore

- We can believe what he says. Back then, our Persona wasn't suited for combat, we were what you usually call navigator - Makoto took the time to explain Sakuya's abilities.

That meant that he has explored all realms of Personas, if he thought his life was weird, now it was even weirder.

- They are from different Arcana, there are 7 in total - Minato was unaware of the presence of the other two. Ikutsuki was not a possibility, he would only serve to get in the way. Although if it was a bait, it wouldn't be a bad idea...

- No way they'll be able to beat all those Shadows - Sakuya commented openly, without noticing Minato's approaching presence.

- Explain yourself! - There were very few moments where Minato got angry, and this was one of them. The scowl and his look that has been controlled by the emotion of anger, made him someone you didn't want to get close to.

- W-well, it turns out there are a lot of Shadows at the entrance... There are 3 that are out of the category of normal. Your friends won't be able to defeat them - Sakuya wasn't happy at all, giving that bad news. And Arisato's anger only made him more uncomfortable.

- What are you talking about, they're stronger than the Reaper?! - Orpheus couldn't believe that in just one day. Fearsome enemies have appeared

- Not like that either, but they are stronger than them together - Sakuya was referring to the whole group of Shadows - Let's face it. The person who could stand up to them, was you Minato.

- To be honest, do they stand a chance?

- No... They are going to die, and that's the reality you have to accept.

- So that's what he meant...That surprise - Makoto understood what Sudou meant. If they managed to escape from him, they would have to deal with an army of Shadows on the way out, it wasn't a bad plan...

Minato didn't have the time to listen to everyone's opinion. Just as in that operation, all that mattered was to look ahead. Reach the nearest teleporter and help his family.

He did not understand what was going on with him these months, was it his Shadows? At what point did he change so much? At first, he refused to share moments with them, but now he longed for it. Those idiots managed to enter his armor without his permission.

Looking at Makoto and Sakuya he knew, he was always like that, but he hid it deep inside himself. The past had tormented him so much, he had forgotten who he was. He wasn't going to let their story end that way.

Tartarus - First floor, hallway

Minato barely managed to set foot in the lobby. Standing on the stairs was a silver knight, who seemed to have been awaiting his arrival.

- Wow, so that's what the Shadows are like now - Sakuya commented by way of warning - I must admit, now they seem a little more lethal.

Instead of retreating. Minato opted to approach the knight, actions that confused the rest, wondering if he was well in the head.

The knight made his attack, but was parried by Minato. He managed to grab the sword, losing a few fingers in the process.

- You know, all I did all this time was run away, but... I'm tired of being the prey! - With impressive strength, Minato had managed to break the sword. Arisato's decision was comparable to firing a Chekhov's gun - Thanatos, I accept the pact!

- I wish you the best of luck. Enjoy this new power for the time allowed - the pact had been sealed.

Chains came out from deep inside the tower, leaving Minato immobile. It hurt like hell, it seemed that the only reason for those chains, was to crush his entire body. Pharos was once again in front of him with that damned smile he always had on his face.

Minato didn't know how to explain it, but he wanted to wipe that smile off his face. He wanted to wipe out all his enemies, to have his name heard in the heavens, to be remembered for all time.

- What is this power? - He was not afraid. He was excited, a new horizon had opened before his eyes, he was about to experience, the power of a God.

Pharos grabbed him by the face, showing more of that grin he was beginning to hate. The distance they were now was dangerous, he was sure Orpheus just died several times over seeing this. Even Hiroshi would have died of cardiac arrest at this.

His whole garment, was in those strange blue flames. He felt the entire right side of his body, start to boil. Any stranger would be horrified, imagining the pain he would be feeling, he felt nothing. Adrenaline had taken over his body, and he had even regained the fingers he had lost.

- Ready to finish them all off? - Pharos' question was the stupidest thing he had ever heard. Minato was clear about what he was going to do, when he walked through that door. Like Pharos, he was wearing a smile that he hated.

Tartarus - Entrance

They had to change positions. Junpei had been wounded and now it was Mitsuru who was taking his place. It turned out that the ones he had faced were the weakest.

They were all united fighting against just one and, even so, they couldn't. During a moment of the fight, one of the knights wandered into the Tartarus. And he has not returned until now

- Mitsuru! - despite Akihiko's warning. Mitsuru's position in withstanding the attack was not good enough.

Everything around her, seemed to move in slow motion. Her sword was broken, she had no way to defend herself, she had enough strength to cut it like butter. The screams of his companions, she wondered, if this was her punishment for all the damage she did.

"Two in harmony, surpasses one in perfection" it seems, at last, she had managed to grasp the meaning of that phrase. They both never had a choice, but she never saw it. So many warnings were right under her nose, and she never considered them.

Now she wondered, if what she was observing, was it true? A katana had pierced the knight's armor, provoking all kinds of screams from the knight. It is as if, to end his suffering, the movement of the katana continued upward, leaving his entire upper body cut in half. They could hardly fight against it, and someone could do it so easily.

- Why are you afraid Kirijo? - Mitsuru now wished that Shadow had ended his life. The look of that silhouette provoked a whole wave of emotions inside her, it was like looking into the eyes of death itself.

No one was sure if it was the wild card, was that guy Minato? The question on everyone's mind. A gray duster, brown leather boots, black gloves with gold ornaments and a katana in his right hand

White roses, had been acquired on the right side of his face. He did not seem to be the same as always, that boy, who never liked to draw attention to himself in class, was not present.

- Minato? - Yukari didn't even care about the use of the honorific.

- It was about time they arrived, they sure took their time - that damn smile made the feeling of happiness, take over her.

It didn't matter what he looked like at that moment. Just that smile and sincere look was enough to know that it was him.

- During this state, you will not be able to summon your Personas. You have at your disposal all my abilities, use them as you please during the time you have left - Thanatos' voice made Minato feel disappointed. He could only enjoy this for a short time

The sound of slow footsteps of metal against the floor caused everyone to fix their attention on the golden knight. Since the operation began, it was his first movements.

To Sho's amazement, his Persona bowed in Minato's presence. Actions they did not expect from his Persona.

- A little help? - Junpei could not feel forgotten. He couldn't blame Yukari, his blue princeling returned safe and sound. He had to admit those tattoos he had, it made him look pretty good.

Despite the great distance that still separated them. The golden knight's movements once again stopped. Minato knew he was going for his head, or else he wouldn't be aiming at him with his sword that was also bathed in gold.

Yukari noticed; he didn't seem to be his usual self. His posture was different, he was not opting for a classic Kendo stance, as he always did during his operations. She knew very well whose katana it was, that Persona who saved her life during that full moon night.

- Can you explain what's going on?! - Junpei asked frantically, while his wounds were being treated - Why do you look like an emo now?!

- If you want to live, you'd better keep quiet - the wild card's answer only made Junpei's fragile mind spin even further.

Yukari couldn't quite process, and it wasn't just the answer they just heard. Those white roses that adorned the right side of his face were slowly fading, to the point that they were going to be extinguished, did the God of Death have to do with all of this?

- So, what's the plan? - Akihiko joined them, his will to keep fighting had not yet been extinguished. Minato knew it well, just by looking at his smug face, always thinking he was the strongest of the group.

- You guys stay back, I'll go against that knight - before anyone could refute his order. The penetrating look he gave them, made everyone bite their tongues.

Both Minato and the golden knight began to close the distance. The Shadows that still remained alive opened a path for the knight. Without warning, both rushed forward to clash their swords.

Yukari watched with her heart in her throat as he was fighting that Shadow, throwing himself into the fray carelessly, he had yet to make any reckless mistakes. But he came close many times to committing one.

Everyone was impressed with the skills Arisato was showing during that encounter. Sho knew what was going on, he was playing with the enemy. He could see a small smile

An ordinary person, would feel such actions as disrespectful. But screw it, Sho wasn't like that. It had been a long time, since he had felt that way. The wait had been so worth it

- Is this all I've been looking for? - Over and over again, Sho kept repeating that question to himself.

He didn't understand the meaning of bonds, all he knew was fighting and he was always willing to fight someone stronger than him.

They had not engaged in conversation; they had only exchanged glances. He did not know if he knew about their existence, but only at that moment, it seemed that Arisato thanked him silently, for having helped his team.

The sound of the clash of swords was observed by all. Both SEES and the rest of Shadows, if an individual from both decided to intervene, their help would be of no use. As frustrating as it was, they could only watch the winner of that encounter.

When they were both at a distance. Minato was ready to use one of Thanatos' spells, but he was noticing something. The rest of the Shadows were beginning to flee into the Tartarus.

Before he could think of a possibility, something fell on top of the golden knight finishing him off. There was a cloud of dust that made it difficult to see. Makoto's appearance gave him an important clue as to who it was.

A shot rang out in the skies, one that everyone knew all too well. It made most of them start to tremble, once again face to face against their worst nightmare in Tartarus.

- Well, well... Did our peace treaty end so quickly? - Makoto asked sarcastically

- I never mentioned I'd wait a day. You'll always be a pain in the ass to me...Arisato - the sound of the steel of the two clashing together. The Reaper was ready once again to resume the hunt - I don't need to talk to you anymore, I just want to hear your screams!

A stream of wind emerged beneath the Reaper, causing it to back up a little. It was Yukari who intervened.

- Are you crazy?! - Minato couldn't believe what she just did. This far surpassed when they did their field investigation.

- I won't leave you alone one more time! - replied Yukari determinedly - We came to save you and that's what we'll do!

Minato only put on a subtle chuckle at the archer's insistence. That's the team he had grown fond of after all.

Sho was now standing shoulder to shoulder with Minato. He didn't show the same enthusiasm, he was serious about the encounter they were about to have.

- Orders? - Sho seemed to be only willing to follow Minato's directions.

- Do you specialize in melee? - Sho nodded - In that case, let's make him suffer! - music to his ears

The moment they both launched themselves at the Reaper. A bolt of lightning struck the Reaper, paralyzing it. The reaper glared at the boxer, who was responsible.

Minato and Sho began to make cuts all over the Reaper's body. Sho was impressed by the regeneration that this one showed, his cuts were not having any effect, only Arisato's.

He decided to step away to summon his Persona. To launch a Pulinpa, which hit the entire Shadow. But it had no effect on him

- Do you think you can make me feel fear?! - the paralysis was over. Sending Minato flying towards Kirijo.

It was a good time for Shinjiro to enter the fight as well. Both Users specialized in hand-to-hand combat. Shinjiro knew this wasn't the time to think, he had to summon it!

- Castor! - The Reaper immediately reacted to the name. Without thinking he would appear from above once again.

The horn of the horse Castor was riding impacted the visible eye of the Reaper. The Shadow's screams were not long in coming.

- I'm beginning to think you've got a bad run with your eyes - Makoto couldn't help that comment. Remembering the past

The Reaper grabbed Castor. That there was his vision, meant no problem for him. He himself took it upon himself to rip the Persona's head off, causing Shinjiro similar pain. It seemed that the effect of the pain was more noticeable on him.

- For the first time, I won't ask why you are here - said Minato towards Mitsuru. Standing up suddenly - Can you still use your Persona?

- Yes, however. The only skill that could work against him is Marin Karin - replied Mitsuru.

- Don't you dare use that. You just saw how the Pulinpa didn't affect him... Turns out he's resistant to that too - Minato sighed.

- Well friend, now that you're back safe and sound. I'm passing the leadership role to you once again - Junpei interjected. That news shocked the wild card

- You became leader? You just made my day! - Minato couldn't believe how short-lived Kirijo's leadership had been. One more reason why they had to escape - Junpei, go give him support!

Junpei summoned Hermes to support Sho and Shinjiro. They were having difficulty holding off the Reaper. Undoubtedly, their most lethal enemy so far.

His eye had already healed, the regeneration it showed was out of this world. Minato had an idea, but he needed time, it was the first time he was going to use something like that.

- Akihiko, I need you to buy as much time as you can! - Akihiko threw himself into the fray. No doubt this had become a suicide team.

The Reaper raised his two revolvers to the sky. Emptying both weapons, everyone was confused at such an action. Minato's senses had been enhanced by the pact, and he could hear what was coming.

Waving his left hand, appearing behind him, the tombs Thanatos used as decoration or so he believed.

Each tomb was placed on top of each of the members. Before they had time to ask, a hail of bullets filled the field. The Reaper seemed unfazed by his own attack, taking all the bullets he used himself and inflicting more wounds.

Already reloading his weapons, he brought one of his revolvers to his temple. Shooting himself and healing himself, just as he did with Minato.

Minato also threw himself into the fight, barely dodging the shots the Reaper provided. His only goal was to kill it, he didn't care about the others. Arisato had also realized that his attacks were the only ones that could do anything to him.

- Yukari! - They didn't even have time to talk about it. But she knew what he had to do

Once again, a stream of wind emerged beneath the Reaper, but this time managing to dodge it. Falling completely into the movement Minato had. The sword he wielded was covered in flames. Receiving the full blow. This was the moment; it was all or nothing

- Everyone moves away! - Minato gave the order. Everyone started to move away while the Reaper was still screaming in pain from the cut he received.

It seemed that the blue flames were working against him. They were preventing his regeneration

- Megidola - was the last option Minato had.

A small sphere of energy surrounded the Reaper. No matter when he moved, he couldn't manage to dodge it. At the same time, he snapped his fingers, the sphere exploded causing a huge wind current.

- These are the All-Mighty attacks?! - Fuuka wondered. They weren't supposed to be able to use them at the level they were at.

When they looked at the Reaper again. He was missing an entire right side of his body. Even an attack like that wasn't able to finish him off. Once again, he shot himself in the head

- Now, run! - Everyone started running for the exit. Minato knew he couldn't get out of this tower.

A large amount of blood began to pool on his left side, it was forming the part of his body that he had lost. When he looked up, everyone had left. He could not complete his hunt tonight

- Arisatoooooooo!

Paulownia Shopping Center - Dark Hour

- We did it! - Junpei was jumping for joy. The operation had been a success, albeit with some events he wasn't counting - Man, I thought he wasn't going to count it... High five Fuuka!

Like Junpei, the shy sailor was overflowing with happiness. No one denies that it was a suicidal plan, but they pulled it off. Their friend was once again with them

Minato was far from the group, he couldn't help but think about all the mysteries surrounding him and above all, what was Thanatos? What are pacts?

- Damn... I still have a long way to go before I can face the Reaper - Sho was deep in thought - I can't complain though, I finally got to meet him!

The roses that decorated his right side of his face. They had vanished as had the power he had gained. Once again, the God of Death had saved him, but at great emotional cost to him...

He had returned his normal garments, of course everything was bloody from his escape with the Reaper.

- With that, we're done Aki - at a considerable distance. There were Shinjiro and Akihiko - Don't you dare look for me again.

- Don't even think I'll give up... I know you'll come back someday - Shinjiro could only sigh at how stubborn his friend was - Thanks, man.

- So... That was Thanatos' power? - Yukari asked as she approached Minato. When they managed to escape, he seemed to be very quiet more than usual.

- Yeah... I don't think I'll be using it again for quite a while - Minato replied without looking at her.

This was supposed to be a celebration for accomplishing a great feat. But in her eyes, she saw a sad man, what happened to him in that tower?

- I think you deserve to know - said Mitsuru to Junpei - You did a great job... I was wrong…

Junpei couldn't help but shout more in happiness. He had succeeded in shattering the president's pride. One more accomplishment, this Minato had to know.

Minato for his part, was not feeling well. His eyesight was beginning to blur, he could barely stand. With all these events, he seemed to be having Deja vu.

- Are you all, right? - Yukari noticed how he was feeling. Before she could help him, Minato had fallen to the ground, he had no more strength. Apparently, the pact had consumed what little he had left - Minato? ... Minato?!

The rest approached concerned about the state of their leader. If it wasn't one thing, it always had to be another. But the result was always the same. Minato Arisato, he could never be at peace with himself.

- Fuuka, what's wrong with him?! - Junpei asked frantically. He didn't know what to do in these cases

- I... I-I don't-I don't know. I don't understand what's happening to him - Fuuka couldn't find an explanation for what was happening to him. Just a few moments ago he was doing so well.

Yukari summoned her Persona, casting a Día on him. But it had no effect, this was beyond her comprehension.

When Yukari realized her hand was bathed in blood. She looked for where the source was coming from and discovered it was on Minato. That idiot had been hiding a wound in his battle against the Reaper.

That was the reason why he was losing strength, alarming everyone. Yukari's spell was not enough to treat the wound.

- You - Minato called everyone's attention through whispers - Don't you dare take me to a hospital - he said that for a reason. In spite of everything, he was still afraid that they would discover his dark secret.

- Dear body ... You better hope we wake up sooner than they see!

After saying that. Minato closed his eyes in what seemed like a long sleep.

- Minato! Come on man, don't play these jokes on us! - Junpei shook his shoulders. To see if he would wake up.

- Come on Dark Hour! Get it over with! - Yukari screamed, it couldn't end like this.

- Akihiko, come help me take him to the dormitory - Junpei ordered - Take it easy buddy, you'll be fine.

Friday, July 10th
Iwatodai Dormitory - Minato's Room, Late

The car is on fire, her mother seems to want to say something. The flames engulf them completely. The sound of chains accompanying at that moment. He knows what will happen to her mother and there is nothing he can do; she will die in front of his eyes.

"Live"

He gasps and coughs, violently thrown back to reality. He is drenched in sweat. He looks down, his fingers trembling, his palms clammy, his breathing ragged. All this, was the fact that he was still alive in this miserable world.

- A familiar ceiling - first words that came out of his mouth when he woke up. He had managed to survive so many situations, he wondered if his fate was important enough to keep him alive.

At this rate, he was going to consider avoiding physical contact. Isolate himself once again, to avoid pain. The nightmares were back and he couldn't show it to anyone.

- This is supposed to be the part where I'm going to tell everyone. That you just woke up - Minato couldn't believe he hadn't noticed Sho, who was eating French fries.

- Calm down, it's not the first time that they don't notice my presence - Sho reassured him - A potato chip? - Minato rejected him, what an unusual situation.

- This is not nice. Yukari was supposed to be waiting like the first time - Orpheus had a serious problem with love.

- Are you Sho Minazuki? - asked Minato remembering the picture that Ikutsuki once showed him.

- The same! A pleasure! - Unlike Fuuka. Sho seemed to act a bit more respectful to Minato. Offering his hand as a nice gesture, something Minato accepted.

- How long have I been like this? Please don't tell me a week again - Minato recalled when he woke up Orpheus.

- Relax, it's only been a few hours. You were knocked unconscious after losing blood from the Reaper's shot ...I know it's sudden, but ... You're great! You have incredible strength! Please, let me fight you!

Flattery that confused the wild card. He remembers perfectly well that the only thing he received from his skills in most cases was utter envy. But the look Sho gave him, didn't convey any of that.

- Amm... Thank you?

- What kind of training did you do? The way you moved was so unpredictable for those Shadows and yet you still managed to keep up... Although let's be honest, you were playing with them! You're a bastard! - Sho couldn't stop complimenting the skills Minato showed him.

Minato noticed something important, his clothes had been changed. And only one thing could mean

- How did you get those scars? - Sho's question was something Minato feared - Was it a product of the Shadows?

- Who saw it? - Minato asked ignoring the questions he had been asked.

- Everyone... When we got to the dormitory, the Dark Hour wasn't over. So, we had to improvise, we had to take off your clothes to treat you and that's when we saw it... - Sho answered looking away - It's ironic, I never thought I'd meet someone like that

- What do you mean?

Sho started to undress his upper body. Minato was in shock when he saw him, scars surrounded his body, just like him.

- These scars are the product of many battles my friend. The truth is that they are unpleasant and I don't want to show them to anyone who is not from the lab... And the truth is, I don't know why I'm showing them to you.

- These scars... I got them from a human, like you and I - Minato finally told someone - They are a part of my past that I want to forget.

- Well, I understand that. But if you want to forget it, why don't you be honest? I haven't been with you for long, but... I like you! - Sho flashed a smile that resembled Junpei's - So, are you ready?

- Actually... I'm not.

- It's a good step. You're not ready, but you were sincere... By the way, what's your type of girl?

Iwatodai dormitory - Command room, Late

- I'm finished - Junpei lay down on the sofa, stretching his whole body - I'm going to need a lot of food to replenish myself.

- Don't even mention it, it's been a long time since I've exercised as much as I do now - Akihiko agreed - You know, I still can't stop thinking about that Shadow.

- Screw him! I don't want to go to Tartarus for a while, I've had too much contact with powerful Shadows - apparently Junpei's idea was accepted by the others - I wonder, when will he wake up?

Fuuka for her part, saw how worried Yukari was. Everyone was sure that she was going to wake up, but... They never imagined that they would be surprised when they attended to his wound.

- Those scars... Who gave them to his? - Yukari asked the rest. The truth is, the others didn't want to think about it...

They felt uncomfortable seeing all the size and shapes of the scars that adorned his back, why had he never told them? In Yukari's mind, only one name could resonate and that was Masashi...

- Now many things start to make sense - Fuuka took a seat next to Yukari - The color that emanated his emotions. He was scared that we would find that out

- Can you blame him? - Ikutsuki asked - For many, the scars are a constant reminder of what caused it.

- There is a possibility that he hid it... Because it reminds him of it, the origin? - Ikutsuki nodded at Yukari's question - Damn it Minato... You must understand that you're not alone in this.

- By the way, that report you gave me Mitsuru about the operation... What's this about Minato being able to use a Megidola? - Ikutsuki was confused by the information.

- Amm... That's actually what happened, he used that ability - answered Mitsuru honestly.

- How is that possible! It's an All-Mighty attack, they wouldn't even be able to handle that level - Ikutsuki was surprised - No doubt this guy is amazing...

- Let's not forget the fact that he looked like an emo metalhead. When he came out of Tartarus - Junpei emphasized that fact - Why did he have to come out like that?

- If you want to know, you can ask him - Sho entered the room - He just woke up!

Iwatodai Dormitory - Minato's room, Late

Sho took it upon himself to call the rest. Now everyone was in his room except for Ikutsuki. He thought it was a time just for the young ones.

Minato didn't dare look any of them in the eyes. He was scared like a dog, when his owner challenges him... He couldn't live with the fact, that they were able to see that part that tormented him so much.

- Hey buddy... - Junpei tried to make contact, but Minato just pulled away. Causing moans of pain, his whole body ached, a product of the pact he made.

No one had any idea how they could deal with something like this. He had been on the brink of death himself on several occasions, managed to escape the Reaper and none of it produced the wave of emotions they could witness.

Minato could only curse, as his whole body began to tremble. His mind was playing tricks on him, he didn't want to remember those days, but he has no escape. They want an answer and he knows he has to give it to them.

- Was it that Masashi? - Yukari asked breaking the tension that Minato had produced - Listen... If you don't want to tell us, that's fine.

- That's the problem... - no one understood what he meant - I know I can't keep running from my past, but I'm scared. I have to face myself

- Everyone starts as nobody, that means you and I started from the same place - Yukari was finding a way to comfort him. - Something motivated us to keep moving forward and then... That's when we arrived here.

If you ask what it was that motivated her to hold his hand in those moments. I wouldn't know what to answer...Yukari knew that her body moved unconsciously, but she didn't regret it.

- You can throw away your mask, you don't need to pretend anymore...You've been tied up for too long, you deserve better. You should be free forever

Freedom. He didn't think to hear that word one more time. He was selfish and he knows it; he always thought he was tied to a destiny, without the will to choose. It was a lie

He could have lived a normal life as a student and forgotten about SEES. He knows he didn't want this, long time...He forged friends and doesn't want to break those bonds. He doesn't want to feel alone again

He flinched when Yukari's hand landed on his cheek, what was she doing so suddenly? She was wiping away... a tear?

He hadn't noticed, he was crying in front of them. Showing his weakness, he was showing who he really was...A frightened child.

- Masashi...He was the last man who adopted me. That man, is the current leader of the Yamazaki group - a group that Mitsuru knew perfectly well.

- When I was under his care. We lived in Kanagawa Prefecture and he had not yet assumed the position of leader. The interesting thing... He was not the next successor to power; he was the younger brother and his destiny was already given. But that man just wanted more power.

Mitsuru felt so identified with that, I can't help but feel ashamed for all the acts. I shouldn't even be listening to this story

- To show that he would be "worthy" to be in power. He had no better idea than to show his father, how he raised a child who lost everything...In turning him into someone perfect.

All the pieces seemed to be coming together. Now they could understand Minato's hatred of always being compared to perfection.

- From day one...He exploited me mentally as well as physically, always being the best at everything. Every time I failed to meet his expectations, he would take me to the "room" - everyone noticed how Minato started to clench his fists - Where I would earn a "mark" or rather...a scar for my failure.

Makoto was also present listening to the story. He didn't want to show it, but if he had the chance to find this Masashi guy, he would definitely make him suffer.

- At first, I performed such acts because I didn't meet his expectations. But after a while, he always did it when he wanted to. Each time, he became more creative, using more instruments...As he used to say, "these instruments. They're what make me a God."

- Why didn't you ask the police for help?! - Fuuka asked horrified by the story. She couldn't understand how people like that could exist.

- That's why we went to Kanagawa. The Yamazaki group had a lot of influence there, in other words, they controlled the police - answered Minato - Then they got tired of using their instruments and wanted to be more "direct".

- Minato...Don't tell me what I'm thinking - Akihiko swore that if he confirmed it. I was going to throw up

- Yes senpai. He started using his fists on me - Akihiko stood in front of the sink fulfilling his thought. No one could blame him, everyone was disgusted.

As stupid as it sounded in her head. Yukari wanted to kill herself, she had no right to know this story. Even though she always wanted to know more about him, it was just...too much.

- Dude, sorry I asked... How the fuck did you survive!? You were a kid! - Junpei didn't quite understand

- It was thanks to her. Shiori - one more name Mitsuru knew well. The family's most loyal servant - She treated my wounds every time I finished my "lessons".

- Did he set you free when he finally accomplished his goal? - Sho asked

- That's the funny part. The older brother passed away from terminal cancer. Then, Masashi became the next heir...But he had no intention of letting me go - Yukari had an idea, but she wanted to be wrong - I became his personal entertainment.

This was simply too much for everyone. Even Sho who was always dying to fight the Shadows, seemed to be uncomfortable with this story.

- Whenever he didn't like something, whenever he had too many drinks...whenever he wanted to feel powerful. He would turn me into his punching bag. He would try to hide me anywhere in the mansion...Because he knew that when he heard the sound of the chains, he was coming for me.

- That explains his hatred for chains - commented Sakuya who also wanted to be present.

Junpei stood up from his seat heading towards Minato. Extending both arms

- What's wrong with you? - asked Minato confused

- Hug - replied Junpei - Don't worry, it's just friendship.

- Don't you dare... - Junpei ignored him. It was a good act, and it was the only thing Junpei could think of. He couldn't feel bad for his friend

- Hurts! - Minato yelled as he received the hug. Junpei froze forgetting that Minato's whole body was aching and he knew he had several murderous glares behind him.

He was betting all of his money that it was about Yukari and Fuuka. Women are the only ones capable of producing such a menacing aura in the room.

- Can you continue with the story, please? -Junpei was scared and this was the only way he could think of to get out of this room alive

- It was in the middle of December, the day before he started to snow. That she made a risky decision…Escape to Tokyo. -Minato continued telling his story - That day I was also about to die

Shiori, a servant who saw hope in him. She just wanted to die to put an end to that way of life, but she didn't want that for him. She wanted him to have a normal life, to release his emotions as a human… How many people have helped him so far? He considered himself a burden, because there always had to be someone to save him from his own darkness.

- We managed to escape, because I moved Shiori's coffin out of the mansion during the Dark Hour. I sure I didn't do any harm, the only thing that was affected was her orientation when everything returned to normal -Minato was amused. The Dark Hour with which he wanted to end, was the one that saved him at that moment

-That's why you knew that nothing was going to happen with those people, when we were on the train- commented Yukari. Another answer to why he was so calm during that operation.

- I don't want to tell you in detail how we managed to escape. I leave them to your anotes

- Were you all bloody? - Sho's question earned a footfall from Fuuka - And why is that?! - Sho had a long way to understand others

- Are we sure that he is Ikutsuki's son? -Orpheus, like the others, had doubts about him. And it wasn't just because of his hair color. After all, Minato inherited it from his mother.

- When we managed to get to Tokyo. Unfortunately for us, it had started to snow and we didn't have suitable clothes for the moment. We were on the street trying to warm our bodies through hugs...Shiori could no longer return to the Yamazaki family, and all because of me

"Minato-sama…I see a great future in you, never lose hope. I love him, take everything from me, and smile for me…"

- I wonder, what will have become of her? I would like to see her one more time, I was never able to say goodbye to her properly… I was never able to say thank you to Shiori

- We thought we were going to die. Until our savior appeared. An old man who offered us lodging, food for as long as necessary. Even getting to adopt me without knowing where I came from... My second father, Hiroshi - It seemed that most of them would burst into tears at any moment - Congratulations, you know my story

- A half - Sakuya said between laughs

- You know - Minato said drawing everyone's attention - It feels good…

- Of all the things you can say man, did it have to be that one? - Junpei couldn't believe how he was handling the situation.

- I would appreciate it if you wouldn't tell this to any stranger - was Minato's request.

- I... I have a few things to say if I may - Minato agreed to Fuuka's request - Let us help you.

Of all the possibilities Minato thought of, once again he didn't think of that.

- What happened to you, is something unforgivable...But it doesn't have to be a life sentence - the rest agreed with Fuuka - You have done so much for us, we think we are a burden to you. Even Junpei thinks so

- That's true! - Junpei just got a character development - Dude, you have helped me so much these months. When I was asking you for answers in class, when you took the time to listen to me... No one did that for me before, you even went so far as to defend me, what kind of friend would I be if I didn't help you right now?

- Don't tell me that...It's too late for me now.

- Sometimes you have to get hurt to know, fall to grow, lose to then win. Because life's greatest lessons are learned through pain - it was weird that that was coming from Akihiko.

- Life is a bitch my friend. But when we hit our lowest point in all that shit... We're open to a change to greater... Was that saying so? - Sho wondered. Despite how little they knew each other I could see his intentions were good, he looked like a child.

That sentence was addressed to Minato, but Mitsuru felt that it was addressed to her at the same time.

- Stop, I don't deserve any of this!

- Are you sure it's still too late? - Sakuya asked, breaking Minato's last barrier.

- Sometimes life is like that, a dark tunnel. You can't always see the light at the end of that tunnel, but if we keep moving. We'll get to a better place... You taught us that, Minato - I didn't understand. What was it about her smile that made him feel so weak?

Why did they have to say all those things? He had grown accustomed to fighting alone, to no one feeling pity for him. He didn't want to feel useless; he didn't want to depend on others. But at the same time, he never sought evil, he always wanted to do the right thing for everyone... He didn't care if that cost him his own happiness.

- All right... Be selfish for this occasion?

- I will accept your help, on one condition - everyone was attentive - Don't call me Mr. Perfect again or I will hate you for the rest of my life.

Such a serious moment turned comical with such a random response.

- Welcome back, leader - said Yukari who still had her hand on his.

Iwatodai dormitory - Minato's room, Night

- This is boring - Minato could only afford to watch TV. The boys promised to spend time with him when they returned. They even invited Sho, the new member.

He was a weird guy; he didn't seem to understand a lot of things about society. But for some strange reason, Minato felt he could trust him. This one even admired him for the strength he had. An interesting character

Of all the people he thought were going to enter his room. He didn't get to think about a certain red knight who held a grudge against him. Mitsuru Kirijo, had entered his room.

- Listen, if you want to talk about the leader's possession...I'm not interested, it's all yours - the only thing Minato wanted at that moment, was to get into trouble.

Mitsuru was aware that she would receive such a treatment. And he was right, with all they had been through. It was a miracle he didn't send her to the jaws of hell with his mouth alone.

- Thank you - he could hear Makoto choking on what seemed to be his own spit. While all of his Persona remained in complete shock.

- Why that so suddenly? - Minato was considering whether what she said. Was it really a thank you or a Kirijo-style threat

- For everything you've done for this team. For saving our lives unmemorable times... but at the same time, I also ask you for an apology - since they started to engage in a conversation. They had not exchanged glances; she was always avoiding him anyway - I want to help.

- So, you can make my life more complicated? No, thank you - Minato was being curt.

- I'd rather lose everything than lose you... Because without you, this team is lost. Forgive me. I'll make it worth your while - Mitsuru wasn't about to leave this room without making a breakthrough.

She knew it was going to be difficult and her willpower was being slaughtered by Arisato's cold stare on her.

- Why should I forgive you? - Minato asked. Mitsuru could only repeat again that she forgave her.

- Forgi-

- Shut up! ...I never wanted to start this little war with you, I always wanted to keep the peace. Have you even asked yourself...? Why did I join this team in the first place?!

- To put an end to the Dark Hour - Minato denied - Wait, then why?

- To protect them - an answer Mitsuru didn't expect - Do you know what it feels like to find a person just like you after so many years? To realize that you're not the only one who shares this "curse" ...No, you don't know anything about it.

- Arisato, I...

- When everything you know, comes and goes. Only scars are left to remind you of what used to be. When there's no one left to support you, you realize...That this pain will persist. That's the difference between you and me - to tell you the truth. Minato was holding back and Mitsuru knew it.

- I'm sorry - despite everything he hurled against her. She kept looking for forgiveness

- Come on guys, when have we ever seen such a remorseful person? Just look at her - Sakuya had a point. Every time she said sorry, she bowed. Something I never thought I'd see

- In this world. We know it's hard for a person to accept their mistakes. Let her apologize, but, above all, with her heart... She is totally sorry, she wants redemption.

- Are you sure we can trust them? - Makoto had his doubts.

Minato knew what he was referring to. A few simple words of forgiveness won't change anything. He knows it's not their fault they ended up inside that tower either. Arisato was constantly struggling between understanding and anger...

Mitsuru was uncomfortable with the silence that appeared. She would do anything to have everyone's forgiveness, she had to be a better version of herself...

- If you have nothing more to say...I'll leave, I hope you get well soon.

- Wait! - Mitsuru turned around to meet the wild card's gaze - Do you know who Maya Amano is?

Minato also knew the answers they all wanted. They knew it too, their eyes rolled back at the mention of that name.

- Give me a moment...I have to show you something - Mitsuru walked out of the room.

- What are you thinking about?! - Makoto was at a loss as to where Minato was going with all of this.

- Once upon a time...Priestess asked me an interesting question, how were you able to create the Evoker? How were you able to contain the Shadows during all those experiments? These are things that surpass the rational...

Makoto knew what he was hinting at. It might sound crazy, but everything related to a past Minato didn't remember. They were spontaneously appearing, the pieces to solve it all, were coming together more and more...

- I want you to see this - Mitsuru had returned. She had in her hands several documents

She handed her one of them. It seemed to be a person's information

- There is no doubt... - Makoto began to speak. I was in complete shock - It's Maya...

The photo showed a woman around thirty years old with fair skin, shoulder-length black hair combed in a flip and purple eye.

- Maya Amano. Her date of birth is July 4, 1976. She is currently in her early 30s. She works as a writer for Kismet Publishing - the information Mitsuru was telling her was true. Makoto was confirming it

- She just... She arrived one day at our headquarters in Tokyo. She took it upon himself to knock out all our security personnel. And that's when we saw him for the first time, someone else capable of using a Persona.

- Is it thanks to her that the Evoker was created? - Minato asked. Mitsuru confirmed his doubts

- She gave us all the information we needed to understand the workings of the Dark Hour. On one condition... The creation of the Evoker, in order to suppress the Persona - Minato blinked in confusion at the news.

- That was not the only condition. She also said that, if someday someone with the potential would appear, we would have to warn her... But only when his Persona, is Phobos - Makoto knew that there was something strange about this. But he didn't imagine something of this magnitude.

- Why? - Minato wanted to keep pushing. He feels that he is getting closer and closer

- Because she said he was a very dangerous User. And she couldn't let a catastrophe happen once again - you didn't have to be a genius. The one most affected by all this was Makoto. He couldn't understand why he was a danger.

- Something doesn't make sense in all this - Sakuya was right.

- After all that. We started to investigate more about her life. But there was nothing out of the ordinary... She was just an ordinary person, who also happened to have the potential to be a dangerous person.

- There's nothing normal about her - Makoto had come out of his shock - Once you are a User. The normal in your life ends up being a nightmare...A reality from which we can't escape.

- Arisato, I know you don't quite trust me. But I need to ask, how do you know that name? Only the higher ups in our group know about it - Mitsuru just like Minato, wanted to understand everything.

Minato wasn't sure whether to make up a lie or tell the truth...At least, a half-truth. Watching them, both Makoto and Sakuya nodded their assent.

- That shadow...The Reaper, he told me that name - Minato decided to go for the truth - I wonder what you knew about her. So, I thought...That you knew something.

- How does the Reaper know about her? It doesn't make sense...

- There's something else that doesn't make sense. Mitsuru, how did they know about my existence? - Another doubt since you joined SEES - Ikutsuki said it the day I joined you guys.

- I... I don't know. I just received information about you, days before you moved into the dormitory - Mitsuru answered.

- She's not lying, I can assure you - Sakuya looked like a detective.

- Who gave you, my information?

- It was...the president - Mitsuru noticed it too. There was something strange about all this

She could have noticed all these facts, if she hadn't been so obsessed with the pride of the group and the persistence of being the new leader.

- Do you think it has anything to do with all this? - Mitsuru asked. Her whole world had changed in such a short time

- I don't know, but this is no coincidence. Just because I said in those sessions that I saw a "monster" is not reason enough to believe that I have the potential.

He was right. There are so many things in the world that can cause people to see fanciful things.

- If you want my forgiveness. Help me find out what the hell is going on here...There is a story that both you and I don't know about...Help me find out the truth.

Mitsuru didn't have to think twice. She was being offered a chance to wash away all her sins. The road to his redemption had begun when the two shook hands, making official a pact between them, for the search of the truth.

Iwatodai Dormitory - Minato's Room, Dark Hour

The reason I had not yet fallen asleep. He had to clear things up with one last person. And it seemed that this one knew about his intentions

- Why did you help me? - Minato asked when he noticed Pharos' presence.

- Simple, I didn't want you to die - answered Pharos - Oh, I see, you wonder why I helped this time and not in the previous ones?

- Is that why you offered me the pact? - Minato had hit the nail on the head. When Pharos flashed his smile

- What good does it do me to help you, if you don't reach your true potential? - Pharos' question was logical. I couldn't always count on his help; I didn't want to lose any more. He had to keep moving forward on this path he had chosen.

- What is your relationship with Thanatos, Pharos? - Both individuals shared the same Arcanum. Minato was coming to consider that Pharos is actually Thanatos...

Although that would be impossible. During the pact, both were present…

- How I would love to give you all the answers you want. But it wouldn't be fun; remember...Everything I do, is for your own good.

Arcane Death. Recognize that it is necessary to give up something and let life take its course. Let go of attachments and vestiges of the past. Renew life and its environment, break paradigms and adapt to the permanent and inevitable changes of life.

Was that the change he needed in his life? Makoto and Sakuya may be a reflection of that. He does not renounce his past, and now these have a life of their own. Haunting him with the unknown and quite possibly, with acts he doesn't remember...His life seemed to be a constant punishment for his failures.

By the time he had realized it, Pharos had already vanished.

Tree of Life: Sakuya's Home

- This reminds me of when we visited the flower field in Hokkaido...- Makoto allowed herself to recall that little trip with his parents during the summer

Surrounded by a field of white rose flowers. A beautiful starry sky and the moon in its crescent phase, which was very close to him. If you looked closely at that moon, you could see a silhouette walking around in circles, a person who was impatient.

- What do you want from me now? - asked Makoto

Makoto knew who that person on the moon was. Hearing his voice, that person jumped out of the moon. It seemed that the laws of gravity did not work in this place.

- It's about time you showed up! You know I don't like to wait - it seemed that this was Sakuya's home.

- I don't care, answer my question - Sakuya could only sigh before such a cutting attitude.

- Each of the words we have selected to weave our destiny. We have created it with boldness and delicacy. We have to start reading the signs carefully - Every opinion on his part was not in accordance with his age.

- Are those signs real or just facades? - questioned Makoto

- That's the fun part. We have screamed to survive to this point, hoping for a miracle to overcome the future. We are brave and cowardly - was Sakuya's answer - Maybe, we will meet them very soon.

- How can you be so sure?

- I don't possess Leviathan's marks. Which means, it's in their power right now - muttered Sakuya irritated - Is your pact still in force?

Makoto doesn't change his expression, but Sakuya notices how his hand tightens slightly.

- I'm sorry, I shouldn't have asked - began Sakuya apologetically.

Makoto is surprisingly quick to dispel his uneasiness with a raised hand, showing a soft and subtle smile that very few are able to see

- It's okay, I don't mind. We both know what my fate is in this...Or I mean, both of ours.

They both look at each other and see the same passive face. But Makoto shows those seemingly dull eyes that hide his suffering quite well. The only thing Sakuya can do to calm all this tension, small taps on his back.

Makoto could only be grateful for the gesture offered to his. He wasn't used to affection like that, but he didn't dislike it either.

- Let me guess. You can't stop thinking about what he said to you during that confrontation.

Words that remained fused in his mind. It was the end of it all, he was determined on what he had to do at that moment. He was not going to let whatever he said affect him. In the end, he got his way...He remembered perfectly what he had said to his.

"This is only the beginning Arisato! Death will never leave you alone, you are destined to loneliness! Until the day of your death..." accompanied by laughter that made him restless.

- Even if I scream and devour everything to the point of anger. I'm not going to fall today - Sakuya watched every movement fixedly. He knew he was afraid.

- You know - Sakuya started, a little thoughtfully, catching his attention - We're just kids, broken, scared and alone. That's what makes us unique, don't you think?

They didn't know how they had ended up in that situation. Now they were laughing, as if they were lifelong friends. Just for that moment, they didn't want to think about their destinies, they wanted to enjoy the peace that was given to them at that moment.

- I'm curious, can he make it? - Sakuya asked referring to the wild card

- It is somewhat doubtful. At least he is aware that he is not the strongest one...He is only one of the many Users that exist - answered Makoto.

- Why does everything have to be so complicated? - Sakuya could only sigh

Neither of them could explain why they considered the moon so important in their lives... They both have an unquestionable taste for that satellite.

- Seriously, what do you want? You didn't just call me for this - they were the same guy after all. There were always ulterior motives.

- The game is coming to an end - says Sakuya simply - It's time to shake off this oppressive wind and show our strength. We have to leave everything behind, and walk on a path of light and darkness.

- Please don't go on like this or I'll be the clown of this strange group - commented Makoto, making the boy smile - It's time to end this. We won't let the same story repeat itself again.

- This time it will be different... We'll save everyone! - a promise was forged between the two as their fists collided. Determined to go on their way, to mark their stories.

Iwatodai Dormitory - Minato's Room, Dark Hour

- Are you sure it was a pact? - Priestess asked, examining Minato's right eye.

After making the pact, the color of his eye had changed to a deep blue that resembled those flames they could summon involuntarily.

- Am I going to die or something? - Minato asked a bit worried. Now he could tell that he resembled Makoto in appearance.

- No... You don't have to worry about this. It's more... It looks like you benefited from it - replied Priestess taking some distance.

- An explanation please? - asked Magician. Who was sitting on top of the desk with his arms crossed

- The change in the color of his eye represents the realization of the pact. In addition, it also serves as an "obstacle or warning" for Arisato to fulfill the conditions - Priestess felt Minato's gaze on his - I know it's not what you wanted to hear.

Who would have guessed that he would end up making a pact with the God of Death? Every time his life looked more and more like a manga or video game. It only remained that he would be the one chosen to wield a sacred weapon to end all the evil in the world.

- I am aware of the decision you made... I know I won't be able to visit their graves again. Is the price of my sin - answered Minato. The Shadows of him thought that, for a moment, they saw Makoto answer them

- Oh. You have just become aware of the darkness that lies within you. Your sins… - Priestess seemed to be happy with the answer that the wild card gave - Keep going like this and you will complete your journey

- Well... Now we have Sakuya. I can no longer ignore that inner voice. I will have to travel once more to my past - Minato said - I have to start trusting myself more... We still have a long way to go

- Yes. It is a pity that we are not able to see that conclusion

- What are you doing? - Minato was confused by Priestess's actions. He had removed his mask, the only thing that helped to differentiate them

- It's time to go, Minato. It was fun while it lasted, but… Everything has an end -The priestess proceeded to give him a hug while he laughed - It's time guys!

- What are you talking about? It is not time yet; it has not even been accepted - argument Emperor

- You are the idiots. He managed to accept me since he recognized Makoto as part of him - Priestess replied - I just decided to stay to see how you were doing.

- All this time, the most immature of us...turned out to be you Priestess - Empress couldn't help but laugh. Also deciding to take off her mask

- Wait! What's going on?! - Minato wasn't understanding anything that was happening.

- We're leaving. Or rather, you managed to get rid of us, wasn't that what you wanted all along? - Priestess was not wrong. That was his goal with them from the moment he met them.

- Listen to the "nothingness" and let the answers come to you. Inside you there are answers to very important questions that are waiting for you to calm down and let them out.

- I did not expect this day to come. I had already gotten used to this lifestyle - commented Empress opening the windows of the room.

Minato noticed that they had physical bodies once again.

- You have started to trust others. You no longer feel blocked and are able to express your feelings. Remember that there are people you can trust Arisato - Empress said, while concentrating on the Dark Hour moon.

- Make a plan, put it in order, adapt to the circumstances, making the most of every part of the process. Assume your responsibilities with intelligence. Focus your thoughts: center your ideas, reflect coherently, without wandering - now it was Emperor who was taking off his mask.

- Just a moment! - The only one who still had his mask on. It was Magician's imperative

- What's the matter with you now? - asked Emperor

- I'm not going to go! -receiving poker looks from his classmates- There's something Minato hasn't done yet! And I'm not leaving until I see it

Arisato knew very well what Magician was talking about. The moment had come, that he had waited so long for so long and had finally achieved it.

He was in the hands of him, getting rid of the Shadows from him. But now that he had finally grabbed this, it wasn't a big deal… That made him think, wasn't he happier when he went after what he wanted?

- Are you afraid? -Emperor seemed to realize his thoughts- It's okay to be afraid... You're not perfect, nobody is. But you're not a failure either

Words that touched the bottom of his being. There was no turning back, I had to move on and this time without them.

- Sometimes I feel like I'm a failure. As if there was no hope for me. But still, I'm not giving up! -Minato exclaimed to the happiness of his Shadows, except for one

- Yes, yes…That's nice, but you're still not going to get rid of me! -Magician was still determined to abandon Minato, his whims were stronger than his duty

- Come on Magician it's ti-

Let's let the summer breeze talk to us
Go with the flow let's keep on fighting
Never looking forward or back
Only looking upward with stars are shining
Even when I'm lost in the course
Y'all show me the way like moonlight in darkness

It had been a long time since he sang. He couldn't deny that, if he felt embarrassed, but he felt very good, he would do that again.

- I'm sorry. It's the only thing I can remember from that song that I never finished writing, what did you think of Magician? - Minato asked with a genuine smile.

Magician took a deep breath to immediately start crying what would be compared to a waterfall

- Hey! What are you going to flood us with? - Priestess said, getting on the bed.

- Sorry! - Magician was wiping away his tears - It's ju-just wh-what, it was so moving!

- Are you happy now? - asked Empress giving her small blows on the back

- Happy as a worm! - His tears had disappeared as fast as he said. With a quick movement, the last Shadow had removed his mask.

The 4 Shadows that have accompanied Minato so far, exchanged glances for the last time with the wild card. Each with a smile on their faces.

- Hey, now that he noticed me. Without these masks, we are the same - Magician said something obvious that everyone knew - Don't you think they can get a little confused?

- Who is it? - asked empress confused

- Those who see us… better forget it! - Magician had an idea - Hierophant and Lovers. If you listen to me, try to change your appearance a bit, be unique!

Empress could only sigh at how unpredictable Magician could be.

- Don't you think it's strange that no one has listened to us? We are speaking loudly and you have even shouted on several occasions - Empress was right. By now there should be someone gossipy

- Don't worry about it. Create a "field" where no sound will leave this room - explained Priestess

- In other words, you soundproofed the room - the term Magician was better accepted - Imagine all the fuss Minato could make here... You just showed off Priestess! Minato remember to take advantage of this, you can even put together a harem!

- I'm really going to miss you Magician... Our deep conversations were the best - Orpheus felt some sadness for that Shadow. The rest didn't matter to him

- Priestess, have you given your ability to Minato yet? - asked Emperor

- Yes... Now it's up to him how he will use it. You better take care of that place Arisato - replied Priestess.

- I guess, this is goodbye... - Minato could not believe it, he felt sad about it.

- A light so clear it can't be hidden. It tears the darkness and will be reborn in this world... You are that light Minato, you will change society, you will be the new voice - Magician felt strange saying such serious things...

- A blurry mirage of you, a vision manifested to me. That you were doomed to lose - Priestess was lying and the others knew it. He wanted to make sure one last time, that I was prepared

- I don't care what awaits me, I won't give up - Minato's answers made the hearts of his Shadows happier.

- Minato... - Magician called his attention - Thank you for everything... Thank you for allowing us to live this - his typical smile. His body began to be surrounded by what seemed to be stars - Take good care of those kids, promise?

Minato nodded

- It's time to say goodbye, but goodbyes are sad and I'd rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure - Magician faded away, but not before showing his tongue like the imperative he always was.

- Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. I simply want to say "I'll miss you until we meet again" ...Take good care of Naoto and Hiroshi, will you? - Priestess was now the second one to disappear.

- This is the moment when we have to close the door to the past... To your past! To give way to the present - Empress for some strange reason had no intention to look at Minato - I forgive you... for turning me into ashes that day

Fading away, leaving a trail of light in the room. Only Emperor remained, who seemed to be lost in thought of him.

- Those idiots, why can't they be honest for once? - Emperor asked himself - Minato. You will encounter several adversities in the remainder of your trip. It will even make you regret your decisions.

- Is that supposed to be a farewell?

- You can... Even if the world has treated you like shit, never change! We are proud of what you have become! We always were! Thank you…For being our friend, thank you for treating us like human beings! - Emperor couldn't help but shed some tears - Are you ready?

- Yes... I'm ready Emperor

- Go and save this world… wild card! - just like the rest. Emperor vanished leaving a trail of light, and just like the others. He didn't do it without showing his biggest smile

He doesn't know where I get the strength to get out of his bed. He knew these moves were going to hurt like hell the next day, but he didn't want to think about it right now.

Following the trails of light, they were all going to one place. Moon…

- Goodbye friends. Thanks for everything…

Saturday July 11, 2009
Iwatodai Dorm - Minato's room, morning

- Is it necessary that you have to do this? - It doesn't matter what arguments Minato throws. He knew that he was not going to be able to convince her

He was about to say that they even looked like a couple like this. But he didn't dare, he had taken the trouble to bring food when he needed it. And as a plus, she herself was cooking

- Tell me Orpheus, what does the life of a newly married couple feel like?

- Indeed! …Although they made me cook - provoking laughter from the rest of the Persona

That behavior that she had with him made him remember many times how Hiroshi took care of him. Despite not being his biological father, he never cared about those things. He was always ready for him, like a true father...

Her laughter made his wonder if he had said something out loud. There were times when he did and it never ended well

- Is that why you never show your right eye? Why do you have heterochromia? - he had forgotten that he had to live with that fact from now on. The boys with the different colored eyes

- Hooray, you already know another secret about me... - Minato's sarcasm only provoked more laughter from the archer - Shouldn't you be in class?

- The archery club can wait. Don't think you're going to get rid of me so easily

- Don't worry, I gave up on that a long time ago. I'm sure Hirai would give anything to hear those words - Minato imagined the scene perfectly.

- By the way, how are you? - Yukari asked worried

- My body is starting to hurt less. I think I'll be ready for exam week. I can't use as an excuse that a giant cowboy-style Shadow wanted to kill me

- You know, don't take it the wrong way... But I notice you differently -Minato raised his eyebrow at such a comment

- In what sense? I hope it's good

- Your determination. Your kindness. Your happiness… All of that seems to be more noticeable now… I like it! - Yukari had already lost count of how many times she had smiled in front of him

- I WANT THEM TO LIVE TOGETHER AND GET MARRIED. BE HAPPY FOR ALL ETERNITY - Orpheus was already taking a long time to say something like that. He listened like he was crying like a baby

- I have a request and I am not going to accept no, as an answer

- In that case, it is no longer a request. But an order- for his little joke he received a blow to the shoulder. He preferred Yukari's blows to the Reaper's shots - What is it?

- A photo - Yukari showed her pink cell phone. This woman was indeed a lover of pink...

- Huh? - if there was something in which Minato was a fan. That was the photos - How for what or what?

- What kind of question is that? Obviously to remember this moment - Yukari frowning was not a good sign

- I'm not a fan of photos… - Yukari gave her a murderous look that matched the Reaper's - Do you want to remember the moment you saw my right eye? Okay... You win boss

- Don't say more then - Yukari took a seat next to him, preparing her cell phone and showing until now. One of his warmest smiles so far - You better smile

- You better listen to her Minato. This girl is scarier than the Reaper himself - Orpheus warned fearing for him

He isn't sure if he was smiling at the Persona joke of him or at Yukari. At the moment of clicking, they both came out smiling together and remembering this moment