CHAPTER 6: Girl in white

08/07/09

Dennis was sitting on one of the internet point's computer checking a few busty girls fanarts on a few websites while chatting with someone. After a few seconds, he chuckled, as if he found something amusing on the monitor, then he shook his head and looked behind him as he heard some footsteps approaching: he could see the purple-dressed blond crossdresser, Kurz, approaching, a superior grin on his face.

"I've heard it from Jin… thanks to your oh so brilliant idea, we've lost a member to that Kaga-whatever group."

The foreigner leaned his back on the chair and sighed. "…Guess it couldn't be helped, given her… instability… what, you miss her?"

"Me? Nah, can't bother with curvy sluts like her… especially when she's loca!" Kurz grinned as he crossed his arms. "By the by, I'm pretty envious… I mean, compared to what I did, your failure is even worse, still no one seems to really be mad at you…"

"You surprised? After all, I did cripple that group…" Dennis replied with a smirk.

"Really? I think you went easy on'em cuz of the girls…" a voice said from behind them. As they turned around, they saw a familiar youth in a green shirt with blue stripes and orange sunglasses.

"Ah, Jin… did you get the info I asked you?" The German fat guy asked as he got up from his seat.

Jin grimaced. "…you even need to ask? Of course, can't 100% say this really IS the one we're after to terminate that group's activities, but… here, read on."

With that, the youth gave some papers with a picture of someone's face. Curious, Kurz approached Dennis and took a look at the file. His eyebrows arched. "Oh, this girl…?"

"My, my… ain't she a beauty?" the fat one giggled. "now I'm even more motivate to follow my little plan…"

"I only hope it won't end up in a failure again…" Jin muttered as he left.

Kurz waited for his comrade to be out of the room, then he approached Dennis. "…you really like that girl? She's a bitch!... but aside that… count me in if you want to screw that little group… but what have you got in your mind?"

Dennis' smile broadened. "… everything with due time, my friend… after all, revenge is a dish to be served cold…"

Jin: A member of Strega and right-hand man of the group leader, Takaya. Not much is known about this stylish-looking teenager, aside the fact he always walks around with a metallic briefcase and often hangs around internet points and arcades. He's a master in gathering information and profiles and admires Takaya as if he was some sort of deity.

08/08/09

Sun shone across the room's window as Kumiko looked outside while sitting on her bed. Her mind went once again to the events of two days earlier and about how she felt like she was finally catching up with her long-lost friend Shinjiro, which made both happy and nervous for some reason she couldn't figure out.

As she put on her light blue sleeveless shirt, her eyes went to the wall clock: it was 9:30 AM already. "Geeze… I don't feel like working on Doujinshi today… I might as well go to the hotel and see if someone feels like going to the movies with me… there's a sci-fi marathon today!" she mused aloud as she walked outside her room.

"Ah, Kumiko-Chan… are you going to Kotobuki Hotel again?" An elder woman wearing a red yukata asked as she peeped outside the kitchen. "If you're going, why don't you stop by the Iwatodai dorm and see how Ken-Kun is doing? I'm kind of worried about him… a high school dorm is no place for such a child! He could spend summer here, don't you think?"

"Alright, grandmother. I'll take care of it." Kumiko replied.

"Oh, and please, dear… don't come home too late… don't forget we need to arrange the shrine for the Summer Festival!"

The teenage girl shrugged. "But grandmother… the festival will only be in two Sundays! There's still plenty of time…"

"Back in my days we prepared festivals more a week earlier so to have more time to enjoy this… you modern youngsters just can't appreciate the pleasure of arranging things for a good, customary festival!" the old lady grumbled from the kitchen, loud enough for the girl to hear that.

"Yeah, yeah… well I'm off!" Kumiko replied while rolling her eyes with an awkward smile. That kind of attitude from the elderly is the one thing that doesn't change, I guess…

As she walked down the staircase leading outside the shrine field, she spotted Akihiko going (actually, jogging) her direction. As he saw her approaching, he stopped to catch some breath.

"Don't waste any time training, hm?" She chuckled.

"Of course not!" his words sounded serious and self-boisterous. "Once summer break's over, we won't have much time for things we want to do, so we'd better not waste any."

Kumiko shrugged. "…I guess."

"Anyway, Fukuyama… Mitsuru wants me, since I'm your classmate, to talk you about something really important… it's about Koromaru…"

The girl's eyes widened for a moment as she faced her classmate. "Did he have a relapse? He's… he's alive, isn't he? Please, tell me if something's wrong with him…!"

Akihiko put both hands in front of his own chest as to tell her to calm down. "Why don't you ask him yourself?"

With that, he looked at his back to see the white and grey dog frolicking towards Kumiko, his scarlet eyes shimmering with joy and health. The girl merrily stretched her arms wide open as she bent down to embrace her dearest pet. Immediately, he leaped on her, both front paws on her shoulders as he frantically licked her face, his tail thumping madly.

Once Koromaru's joyful way to greet her human friend stopped for a moment, Kumiko finally stopped laughing and stared at him with a very sweet smile. "Oh, Koro! you look healthier than ever, boy! Don't ever make me worry that way again, you heard me?"

The dog barked as to reply her words. He then leaped down, walked in circle and stopped in front of Kumiko, his tail still thumping. It was then that she noticed: he was wearing some sort of white bulletproof vest and a mechanical collar with two small wings attached on the rear. The girl blinked, not really understanding what that getup was.

Akihiko took a deep breath and answered her unasked question, uncertain about how to give her the news. "Yes, well… that's a special collar developed by the Kirijo Group to help him control his Persona… some sort of Evoker for dogs…"

"Oh… I see…" she said as she bent down to the dog once again. Then, realization struck her. "Wait, you don't mean…?!"

The silver-haired boxer nodded. "Some tests were made and it seems it's possible… so the Chairman would like to enlist Koromaru's help in our fight… Mitsuru concluded that making such a decision on our own would have been wrong, so…"

"…you wanted to ask me first…right?" Her voice sounded like miles away… she almost lost Koromaru to the shadows already, the idea of letting him fight against shadows with SEES didn't smile at her. " Don't know… I'd rather not get him involved…"

"Kumiko…" he looked in her eyes; she could see a shadow of sadness in his own. "Maybe you don't realize it yet, but Koromaru is an incredible dog… despite all of the bad memories, despite the fact he saw someone he cared for die in front of his eyes… despite all of this, he kept on fighting… kept on protecting what he was supposed to… I think having someone like him around would… dunno how to say it… help me to become mentally stronger… I know it sounds selfish… I just wanted you to know it."

Kumiko's eyes went to the floor. "But still…"

It was then that Koromaru whimpered, staring at the girl with his deep, sad eyes.

"What? You want to return the favour?"

Koromaru kept on staring at her, his eyes sadder and sadder. her face grew grimier as she looked at her. "…is that what you want…?"

Koromaru whimpered another time, his eyes went to Akihiko and then to Kumiko again. The girl felt something inside her shattering. She wanted to respect her dog, although getting apart from him made her feel bad. She shook her head, closing her watery eyes and bent down on Koromaru, putting both hands around the dog's shoulders.. "…I understand… but… don't overdo it, boy… will you?"

Koromaru yipped and thumped his tail at the girl. Akihiko walked closer to her and put a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry, Kumiko… I'll make sure nothing bad happens to him."

"…I know" she graced him with a sad smile. "Thanks, Sanada-Kun…"

After that, she rose up on her feet and saw him walk away with the dog as she felt a slight pain in her heart. She felt bad about Koromaru leaving but she trusted Akihiko and Mitsuru, she knew they would have taken good care of him…wouldn't they?

"Ah, Sanada-Kun! Be sure to give him first-choice beef and vegetable to eat! He's very picky about food… be sure he won't get anything overcooked, or else he won't eat it!"

Akihiko's head tilted as he smiled sheepishly and shrugged.

08/09/09

The hotel's main door closed as Shinn quietly entered the lobby that evening. When his teammates greeted him he didn't reply, he simply kept on looking at the floor as he sat at one of the tables in the dining room and rested his head over his clasped hands.

Miyuki approached him. "Did something happen to the hospital? Is that girl alright?" she asked, concern in her voice.

He quietly shook his head. "No… this time, she was OK… but man, I can't stop thinking of the time she first woke up in that hospital room… she was so upset… and scared… she even mauled a nurse and had to be anesthetized… it was terrible… it hurts seeing her like this…"

The pink-haired girl with glasses sighed. She then sat next to him as Kagami, Tsukasa and Kumiko approached. "Um… I know Athrun-Kun said to not trust that girl and all… but I think she's not really evil… she's nothing but a victim… so… uh… stay by her side, OK?" Tsukasa shyly said.

Kagami scratched her cheek. "I'm not exactly sure of how much that's true… you can never be too careful… but I think Shinn-San can work it out somehow… I mean, he did manage to reach her, after all…"

"…if we manage to get rid of the Dark Hour, our Personae will disappear… and Stellar will be free too, right?" Shinn whispered to no one in particular.

Kumiko nodded. "…probably."

Finally, he rose up his head and faced his teammembers, determination in his eyes. "OK, then. I'll do it! After all, I said I would have protected her… and this is the best way to fulfil that promise… for her… and for me as well."

Kumiko graced him with a slight smile. "…seems like you eventually found your reason to keep on fighting, hm?"

Shinn nodded and got up from his seat. "I don't care what that jackass Athrun says. I decided to stick with Stellar as much as I can! I'll be sure to check on her at the hospital every time I got the chance to…!"

"Very nice, Shinn-San…" Kagami said with an awkward smile. "But… aren't you forgetting you have to attend summer school?"

Shinn's enthusiasm died out as soon as Kagami said that and the junior collapsed on the chair again. "ARGH!! I totally forgot about that!! DAMMIT!!"

The girl with twin tails put both hands on her waist and pouted. " …you could avoid that by studying during this semester… there's no use in crying over spilt milk, you know…"

"Now, now… Shinn-Kun… I need to attend too, at least you won't have to go alone!" Tsukasa said, trying to cheer him up. "Cheer up, will you? Have some watermelon!" she added with a smile, leaving everyone awestruck.

08/11/09

"Phew… it's hot today… if it were me, I would have stayed home playing Super Robot Allstars K…" Konata mumbled as she entered the hotel lobby with Kumiko in her tow that afternoon. "…I don't feel like exploring Tartarus with this heat… can't we skip it since Tsukasa and Shinn are busy with summer school?"

Kumiko's shoulders dropped as she shook her head. "I feel you, I really do… I, too, would rather play my PS2 indoor… but we're behind schedule already because of the fact some of our team members must attend classes… besides, it's not that hot during night… so, let's try and put up with that, OK?"

"I guess that's what comes with having just a few members… SEES sure is lucky about that…" the tiny girl sighed with her typical playful smile. "I wish we had more members…"

It was then that they noticed Shinn, Tsukasa and Miyuki sitting at the lobby's main table, the latter carefully placing some cards on it as the first two observed carefully. When Kumiko inquired about that, Miyuki started explaining: "You see, Asuka-San and Hiiragi-San had a lecture about Tarot cards during today's class, so I was helping him by explaining that a little better, since they didn't really get much of that."

"Good idea, Miyuki." Kumiko nodded. "It could even be useful in our fight, after all…"

"Really?" Tsukasa blinked. "How so?"

"All of the shadows we faced so far are related to a specific Major Arcanum within Tarot cards… you can easily recognize each shadow's Arcanum by the mask they wear, which have a different shape and roman number on it… the same thing is to be applied to each one of our Personae." Miyuki explained.

Shinn placed a hand in front of him, frowning. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Start by explaining WHAT these Major Arcana are!"

The good-looking young woman with glasses took a deep breath and started her long explanation: "I do not know how much you've been told during today's lecture, but the modern 78-card Tarot deck is composed by 22 Major Arcana – also known as face cards – and 56 Minor Arcana – the number cards or pips –. Now, unlike the Minor Arcana, the Major Arcana cards all have some specific illustrations on their faces and they depict a story which is a metaphor of each one's individual journey through life; it begins with card number 0, The Fool, and progresses in numerical order up to card number 22, The World, each Arcanum depicting a key phase in individual growth and experience."

Miyuki paused for a moment to catch some more breath before resuming her explanation, by placing each one of the 22 Arcana cards in order: "Like I said earlier, the first Arcanum is number 0, The Fool: it represents the beginning and infinite possibility… just like the number itself; then we have the second card, The Magician: it stands for action and initiative… and a bit of immaturity; now, this one is The Priestess – also known as High Priestess –: it means inner knowledge… The Empress and The Emperor Arcana respectively represent motherhood and fatherhood as opposing cards, with the latter including the ability to take command; and this one is The Hierophant: it means formality and knowledge; The Lovers stands for a choice to make, with your own consciousness finally emerging; The Chariot represents a momentary victory for the individual; The Justice represents knowledge of what's right and what's wrong, as its name implies; and so we reach The Hermit, which stands for an inner search of answers you need to accomplish on your own; now we have The Fortune – also known as The Wheel of Fortune –, depicting fate and the opportunity it can bring, either good or bad; The Strength Arcanum depicts passion and self-control, the willpower you need to overcome obstacles; The Hanged Man marks your own inability to take action in a specific circumstance, passivity… and so we reach the 13th Arcanum, The Death. Now, don't be swayed by its grim name and think this is a completely negative card: although it symbolizes your own spiritual death, it also marks a new beginning, just as death is after all husbanded with rebirth.

And so, your own transition path continues with The Temperance Arcanum: the ability to balance the opposites and set your eyes to your own true inner growth… which eventually brings you to face temptation, here depicted as the following Arcanum, The Devil… this brings about The Tower, which marks the collapse of your own former values and creeds, apparently leaving nothing left to you… that is until you see a new glimmer of hope as new possibilities open in front of you: that is what The Star, maybe one of the most beautiful Major Arcana, depicts… but be careful, for this new opportunities will make you vulnerable to fears and uncertainties which are brought about by The Moon Arcanum… still, you needn't to falter, for what is waiting for you is marked by The Sun, which depicts a bright path to walk towards the future, towards your own true achievement as small things will help you find true happiness.

And so you finally reach the end of your long journey of discovery, which is marked by The Judgment: you look back at the long path you trailed and ponder about all the things happened to you, either right or wrong, finally able to judge it with a just and serene state of mind; this brings about your own true accomplishment, your true awareness of your own place in the world: such is what the final Arcanum, The World, symbolizes."

After completing her very long explanation, Miyuki leaned her own back on the chair and faced her teammates with an awkward smile. "Um… I realize it was quite a long explanation… and this whole thing about your own life and such isn't exactly entertaining to most of people… I hope it didn't bore you."

"Not at all, Miyuki… that was quite interesting… wasn't it?" Kumiko said shaking her head.

Tsukasa wanted to say something, but that long explanation left her completely clueless: actually, she didn't get much of it as Shinn was on the verge of falling asleep. Seeing that Kumiko grimaced. "…well, I did like it. But there is something else I'm curious about: how you can relate The Arcana to each one's personality… if you think about it, our Personae are supposed to be our inner selves and each one has an Arcanum… so…"

Miyuki was on the verge of resuming a new explanation, when her cell phone rang, causing Shinn to sigh in relief… three long explanations were clearly too much for him to handle! Immediately, Miyuki took out her phone and saw who it was; for some reason, a slight blush hued her cheeks as she read the name on the phone's display and she got up, walking in a corner of the lobby as she answered. Konata looked at her with an even more playful smile as she sneaked behind her to overhear the conversation.

Miyuki's voice sounded even sweeter for some reason. "Yuki-Kun! I haven't heard from you since a while…" she then sounded in awe for a while. "AH! Oh, I…I'm so sorry… I totally forgot about that!... well, I didn't mean… well, happy belated birthday, then!… yes, I missed talking to you as well… how is everyone doing?… Oh, I see… me? I'm fine. I have Izumi-San and the others with me… Fukuyama-San is very nice as well… and Kurohagane-Sensei too!… I know it might sound crazy, but because of some sort of time-space anomaly, things are never boring around here… I'm doing my best to help researching that, it's all I can say… bothered me? Umm… no, no one in particular… even though Zala-San tries and approach me now and then… yet again, he does it with every girl, so…… what? Here? For real?? Oh, that would be wonderful! When are you planning to?... this Friday? OK then, I'll come to the station around that time! Bye!"

With that she put her phone back in its place and chuckled with a slight blush as Konata approached. "Lemme guess… it was Sanada, right?"

The pink-haired girl nodded, her face becoming redder.

"Sanada? You mean…" Kumiko asked, confused. After all, she only knew one boy named Sanada.

Konata noticed that and chuckled. "No, not Akihiko-Kun… 'Sanada' is just a nickname… his real last name is Takeda… but… you'll probably get to know him very soon. He's coming here, isn't he, Yuki-Chan?"

"Um… actually, it's still not 100% sure, but… he said he was thinking to come here…" Miyuki shyly said with a slight smile.

"Well, with some luck, he might come before Sunday, so you might get to go to the Summer Festival with him! Wouldn't going there with your boyfriend nice?" Konata asked while nudging her friend, causing her to become almost purple.

It was then that they all noticed Athrun, who was frozen right in front of their table, his eyes widened in shock. He then, shakily pointed a finger at Miyuki as he stuttered: "W…w…you…you have a BOYFRIEND?!"

The girl frantically moved her hands in front of her while shaking her head. "Z…Za…Za…Zala-San! Please, don't scream like that!"

But Konata merrily confirmed his doubts, causing Miyuki to feel even more embarrassed while Athrun took some steps backwards, his arms hanging limp as his face was frozen in stupid-looking face. After a few seconds he stood like that, in shock, he rushed upstairs, in his room. Right after that, everyone present could swear they could hear some loud sobs and screams, causing Miyuki to sit down, resting her head on her own hand as everyone else looked at Konata who couldn't stop chuckling.

08/14/09

"Coming!"

The hotel's door bell rang twice, causing Kagami to go walk to the door at a fast pace, wondering if it was a new customer… maybe it was Kumiko, who was done with the daily arrangements at the shrine for the Summer Festival?

She was quite surprised when she saw who stood on the doorway: it was a tall and well-muscled young man with scarlet narrow eyes and short hair, most of it – safe for a few bangs – pulled back. He wore a blue bomber jacket over a red T-shirt and blue jeans, keeping both hands in its pockets, causing his back to arch a little. Anyone could have said the guy was an up to no good punk, but Kagami felt relieved for some reason.

"Oh, Yukimura-San! I've rumors about you coming here, but it's still a surprise!" She greeted him with a bow.

The newcomer she called Yukimura shrugged as he stepped in. "Yeah well… I wasn't much specific, I guess… but I think I hinted MiWiki I could come today and we agreed to meet at the station…"

The girl with twin tails sighed as she closed the door. "Yes, well… she's…"

Miyuki's scream could be heard from upstairs as she rushed down the lobby. "Oh no, it's so late!! I missed the train!! Now what am I going to…do…?" she stopped on her tracks as she saw the tall guy on the doorway, causing her to blush.

"Ah… h…hi, Takeda-San…"

He nodded. "Hey. I thought I told you to either call me Sanada or Yukimura."

Miyuki bowed down, an air of frustration on her face. "I…I'M SORRY!! I know I had to come get you at the station, but… that book was SO good, I…I…"

"Same old MiWiki… I figured something like that happened, so I came to the hotel on my own. (I'm glad the letter that Kurohagane guy sent had the hotel address…)… not a bad place at all." The red-haired young man shrugged.

The door bell rang again and Miyuki reopened it: this time it was Konata and Kumiko staying on the doorway. Kumiko blinked. What's Asch the Bloody doing here?

"Ooh, so Sanada came after all!" Konata chirped as she walked around him.

"Well, well…Miss Dragon Punch herself… You haven't changed a bit." Yukimura smirked, both hands on his sides.

Kumiko tilted her head as she looked at Konata. Seeing that, Kagami explained: "Yes, well… Konata-San impulsively delivered a Shoryuken on this guy in an attempt to 'rescue' Miyuki-San from him… while he wasn't planning any bad. He nicknamed her like that since then."

"Fukuyama-San…" Miyuki gestured at the boy. "this is Yukimura Takeda-San, one of our former schoolmates…" then, to him: "Yukimura-San, this is Kumiko Fukuyama-San, our leader in our research project about time-space phenomena I told you about."

Yukimura "Sanada" Takeda? Why do I have the feeling Mr. Ono would love that name? The scarlet-eyed brunette thought as she examined the newcomer

"So you're the girl I've heard about. Say, I owe you one for looking after this bunch!"

Kumiko blushed as their eyes met. Wow… he looks rowdy but he actually seems like a nice guy… just like Shinji-Kun! Her thoughts were interrupted by a strong smell of something burnt. It was then that everyone noticed some black smoke coming from the kitchen.

"FIRE!! FIRE!!" Tsukasa cried as she dashed downstairs inside the kitchen, followed by the rest of the bunch.

As the smoke became clearer, they all could see Shinn wearing an apron and kitchen mittens while holding a silver plastic container with overcooked potatoes as black smoke came out of the oven.

"What fire?!" Shinn angrily muttered. "The only thing on fire is my poor taters… this is the third time I tried cooking them today, no avail…" he then angrily threw the overcooked potatoes in the trashcan, looking like on the verge of tears. "Just where do I go wrong…?!"

"Hey, Shinn-Kun… since then do you cook?" Kumiko asked, even more perplexed. She never saw the junior trying to make any dish.

Konata tapped her shoulder and whispered in her ear. "It all started yesterday, after he went to the hospital to check on that Stellar girl… I couldn't make much out of his never-ending cussing but it seems like some guy in a red coat who knows how to cook rather well came to see her with a delicious-looking packed lunch… last thing I know is Shinn-Kun trying to learn how to cook."

Kumiko left out an awkward chuckle. She could imagine the guy he talked about being only one person: Shinjiro; after all, he seemed like knowing Stellar and was a very skilful chef.

"Man, your old friend Shinjiro sure is something… he's not just a cool and powerful guy, he's also great at cooking…" The tiniest girl mused. "…an awesome guy who can cook and hides a tragic past of sorts… and looks shifty… OK, from now on, his name will be Regal Bryant Jr.!!"

That remark caused Kumiko to chuckle because of the truth of it. On his hand, Shinn didn't seem amused at all and checked the recipe book once again as Yukimura examined the oven. It was then that the black-haired teenager noticed him. "Never seen you before… you must be the guy everyone were talking about…hmm… Yukimura, right?"

"That's right… and you are…?" Yukimura asked while arching an eyebrow… at first he wondered if this boy was the infamous Zala trying to hit on Miyuki; that is, until he remembered the fact Zala had blue hair and green eyes, while Shinn had black hair and scarlet eyes. "You… aren't a relative of that Kumiko girl, right? You look pretty similar…"

Both Shinn and Kumiko glanced at each other, confused. Then they both shook their heads. "Nah, it's just a coincidence. If you haven't figured it out, name's Shinn. Now if you excuse me, I need to learn how to bake these darn potatoes!"

"Oh, I know!" Tsukasa clapped her hands with a smile. "Shinn-Kun! Why don't you ask Yukimura-Kun for help? He's pretty good at cooking!"

That caused both Shinn and Kumiko to jolt as both looked at the newcomer in disbelief. "You… can cook??"

Konata chuckled: "What's with the surprise? Shinjiro-Kun looks rowdy but he can cook well himself… right, Kumiko-Chan?"

Kumiko blushed a little as she scratched her cheek. "Um… I never got to really try his cooking, but that's what I've heard…"

"Oh? Here goes my so adorable picture of you and that lad sitting under a cherry tree, as you taste all the food he worked so hard to make… just for his dearest Kumiko-Kun…" Rei's voice said from outside the kitchen, causing Kumiko to wince as her whole body turned red. Seeing that, the computer teacher left out a sardonic cackle as he shrugged. So that's the famous Rei Kurohagane…the one who wrote me… I don't know why, but he DOES have a manipulative bastard aura about him… better watch out for him… well, at least he's on our side. Sanada thought.

"Yukimura 'Sanada' Takeda, I would assume… your being here means you got my letter. I hope you'll like Kotobuki hotel and you'll enjoy the sights of Iwatodai and Port Island." Rei said shaking Yukimura's hand. He then whispered in the boy's ear while winking. "By the way, in case you're wondering… your target is upstairs at the moment, so feel free to 'talk' to him anytime."

The professor then walked to the rest of the group. "Well then, it's almost supper time… so… why don't we let our new guest to make something for all of us? Once he's done arranging his stuff and Shinn is done cleaning up, of course."

Shinn cried after hearing Rei's words, but the man told him HE needed to clean up the kitchen because HE was the one who caused all of the mess. As Kumiko and the professor went out of the kitchen, the first inquired about the letter he mentioned. "Details, Kumiko-Kun… details… Anyhoo, do you want to dine here with us tonight? Seems like you took a liking of our new guest? Sorry to bring you down, but his heart lies elsewhere."

"Well, he DOES seem interesting… but no more embarrassing lies about me and Shinji-Kun… OK?" She muttered while staring him coldly.

Meanwhile, Miyuki and her three friends accompanied Yukimura upstairs to see his room. It was then that the red-haired youth finally spotted Athrun, who felt a chill running down his spine as Takeda threw him a stare ad piercing and venomous as a poisoned shuriken. You just try and approach Miyuki again and you're in for a world of hurt, you fucking ass!

Yukimura "Sanada" Takeda: A rowdy-looking teenager who hails from the same city and school Konata, Miyuki and the Hiiragi twins are from. He owes his name and nickname to his father, a history nut who named him after Yukimura Sanada, a soldier who fought for the Takeda clan during the Tokugawa era. Despite the fact he looks and talks like a punk, he's a good-natured young man with a strong sense of justice and would do anything to protect people around him. He seems to like Miyuki a lot but still can't find the heart to confess it.

Later that day, all of the Kagayaku members, including Rei and Yukimura, gathered together in the hotel's restaurant; their table was covered up with many delicious dishes, both eastern and western, all made by the newcomer. The atmosphere was very lively as everyone talked merrily and friendly… even though, now and then, Yukimura, as he heard of all the advances he did to Miyuki and other girls, threw angry, piercing stares at Athrun, who kept on eating while weeping.

"Whoa! You weren't bluffing when you said you're good at cooking!" Shinn said as he sampled the couscous Yukimura made. "Hey, where did you learn to be that good? I wouldn't mind learning your secret at all."

"Let's put it this way" Yukimura said as he graced Miyuki with a slight smile. "When your father is in charge of cooking… and HE CAN'T COOK… you must do things on your own… or rely on your mother who trains you and who often doesn't feel like cooking… besides, cooking is secret weapon #57."

"Right. Think you could share some of your skills with me, Yukimura?" he then winced, remembering something. "Oh yeah… I already asked Fuuka…"

As soon as he heard Fuuka's name, Rei was about to choke on his drink. Cleaning up his mouth with his napkin, he said. "I advise against asking her for help… but you're free to do as you please, of course…"

"Anyway, I think I said you can just call me 'Sanada'… why don't you do it?" Yukimura asked, causing his former schoolmates to chuckle.

"It's kind of hard… after all, we have a classmate whose last name actually is Sanada!" Tsukasa said.

Yukimura blinked for a moment, then he talked to Kumiko. "By the by… you make Doujinshi for the RK, right? I think I've read a few RPG-related ones. You're pretty good."

"You liked them? For real? Oh how relieving…" Kumiko sighed as she blushed. She then looked at Yukimura, surprised. "Wait… you mean you're a gamer? I wouldn't have thought that…"

He scratched the rear of his head. "Well, actually I'm mostly into classic games… you know, 2D sidescrolling action games like Metroid, Castlevania, MegaMan and Contra… 2D fighting games, shooters – like R-Type and Tohou, not those crappy FPS! –…RPG, like the Tales games and Star Ocean… and the Super Famicon era Squaresoft RPG, those good old games they made before joining with Enix and becoming SEllout."

Kumiko's eyes started sparkling. "Me too. I love all of the games you're talking about… although I'm mostly into RPG and a few SRPG with mecha... and I got to admit I still play my good old GBA games with my trustworthy DS."

"Well, well… seems like Kumiko-Kun has found a guy she can relate to." Rei grinned. He then approached Kumiko and whispered in her ear: "Just don't fall for him… you'll set yourself for a… royal heartbreak."

The girl arched an eyebrow. "Ooh, you worried about me? How rare…" she then eyed Miyuki, who looked at Yukimura with an expression of serenity. "…I must say I kind of envy them… I hope things will go better for them than how they did for me…"

08/16/09

The Summer Festival had finally arrived and Naganaki Shrine was bustling with activity. Many people, especially young couples, were frocking to enjoy the sights and entertainments of the festival. And there were plenty of things to do: catching goldfishes, lotteries, masks to buy, Takoyaki stands. While guys were all dressed in their ordinary outfits, most of girls were wearing their own traditional yukata.

Now and then, some guys' eyes couldn't help but going on the young girl tending the shrine: a good-looking girl with brown hair and scarlet eyes, wearing a Shinto Priestess outfit.

Kumiko.

Her outfit gave her quiet attitude something solemn, almost regal, which seemed like catching everyone's eyes… as for girls, some of them admired her beauty, while others seemed like annoyed by the fact their guys were eyeing her. As for Kumiko, she looked around to see all the people having fun and left out a sigh… she would have liked walking among them with a guy herself, so she somehow envied them all.

Then something caught her attention: a short, blond-haired girl wearing a metallic headset and a blue yukata with white flowers on it; there was also a red-haired girl with a refined-looking white yukata. The young priestess approached the duo. "Mitsuru-San…"

"Ah, Fukuyama… helping with the festival this year as well?" Mitsuru asked.

"Yeah… not easy at all… anyway, how is Koro doing?"

"He's doing fine. We're taking good care of him, so you don't need to worry."

Kumiko then bent down to examine Aigis. "Ooh, how cute, Aigis-Chan! Didn't expect to see you here… and that Yukata…"

"I am required to acquire as much information about human customs and habits as possible." Aigis answered without blinking.

Mitsuru put a hand on the robot's shoulder. "Chairman Ikutsuki had the idea. It's in order to test her level of adaptation and comprehension in the outer world… so to make sure we can let her go out on her own, you see?"

Kumiko nodded. "What a fabulous idea!" Then, to Aigis. "So, how is the Festival, Aigis-Chan? Having fun?"

The android nodded. "Affermative. But I have a question… what is the purpose of these things?" she asked while looking at the masks stand.

"That's called a 'mask': you cover your face with it for fun." Mitsuru explained.

"Hiding your face is fun?" Aigis asked while tilting her head.

The red-haired girl chuckled. "It's not the notion of hiding your face with it… you just try to… well… having a different face… pretending you have…like… a different face… I guess? Fukuyama … you know what I'm trying to say, right?"

Aigis interrupted both. "I comprehend… you wear a mask to pretend to have a different face."

"That's very clever, Aigis-Chan!" Kumiko patted the android's head. "At this rate you'll be able to get out of the dorm as much as you want."

Then, the young girl wearing priestess clothes heard someone else calling her name and excused herself from the two SEES girls. A few steps away, she could see Yukimura and Miyuki, the latter wearing a nice-looking red Yukata with sunflowers on it, while the first wore his ordinary red T-shirt and jeans. Both thought that Kumiko looked really nice in that priestly outfit.

"By the way, Fukuyama-San… have you seen Izumi-San and the others?" Miyuki asked. "They were right here and now they simply disappeared."

Immediately, Kumiko looked around until she spotted two girls wearing a Yukata which was similar to the one Miyuki wore and a dog-shaped mask, similar to Koromaru's face. The girl noticed that one of the two was tiny with long blue hair and stepped in front of them. "What are you trying to pull, hm? Konata?" Kumiko asked with a smirk.

"I'm not Konata!" the girl yelled in a hot-blooded way as she struck a Sentai-ish pose. "I'm known as Ai no Yuusha, the Hero of Love! And this here is my loyal sidekick…"

"Konata, that's enough… she figured it out…" Kagami said, removing her mask.

"Come on, Kagamin… we need to preserve the romantic atmosphere! You can't disrupt everything now!" Konata cried as she removed the mask herself as both Yukimura and Miyuki avoided each other's gaze while blushing violently.

"Now, now… let's leave them alone, shall we…?" the brunette said as she pushed both Kagami and Konata away and the three of them started talking on their own, the tiniest of the three still eyeing Miyuki and her friend, who now were buying some Takoyaki to eat, their embarrassment gradually fading away.

"By the way" Kumiko asked. "Where's your sister, Kagami? I haven't seen her since yesterday…"

Kagami sighed while looking around. "Well, I know she wanted to come with that Kenji boy… but it seems like he had other business… this is the third time he tells her… she once told me she suspect he's flirting with many girls and since then, I could swear I saw Tsukasa muttering something while holding a big and sharp knife... the glare in her eyes was simply scary…"

"Tsukasa… turning Yandere?... NAAAH, not Tsukasa!" The blue-haired tiny girl laughed.

Her laughter died out when they saw a knife flying over their head, towards Mitsuru and Aigis, which the latter deflected with her mechanic arm. Dumbfounded, everyone looked in the direction the knife came from (Precisely, above the shrine floor); all they could see was a silhouette of a girl with a kimono and someone screaming "WAAH! WHAT AM I DOING HERE?! HEEELP!! GET ME DOOOOWN!!!" in a very high pitch.

06/20/09

"Man, it's scorching hot out here…" Junpei mumbled as he scratched the rear of his head. As

"Well, IT IS August, in case you failed to notice…" Konata said as she started fanning inside her shirt with the movie marathon pamphlet she was holding.

"Can you believe it's the 20th already? Soon, summer break will be over and the next semester will start…" he complained. "If only this place wasn't so boring…"

The small girl hopped in front of him. "Hey, wanna hit the manga café? There's the AC in there!"

"We went there yesterday, Kona-Chan… can't we do something else?" The capped teenager sighed.

She puffed. "You only reject all of the proposals… why don't YOU try and propose something for a change?"

"It's because I can't think of anything fun to do, that's the reason…" He grimaced.

With that, Junpei started looking around, searching for something fun the two of them could do there in the Port Island Station Square. The movie theater? The genre of movie marathon they were showing that day wasn't of his taste… the bar? That could go just for a handful of minutes, nothing more… as much as he tried, he couldn't find anything fun to do at all…

A small yet cold voice to his right caught his attention. "Hey, you two… get out of my way, I can't see."

The lad was awestruck in seeing the voice's owner: a young girl with long red hair, wearing an elaborated frilly white dress and hairband, which also had some sort of cross-shaped knife going through it. The girl was sketching something in her sketchbook and her eyes seemed miles away. Noticing how he was gazing her, the girl seemed fairly annoyed. "What do you want? " she rudely asked.

"Um… no… nothing… let's go, Kona-Chan…" he stuttered, still in awe as he walked away with his friend. Once he was sure the girl in white couldn't hear them, he asked, more to himself than to Konata: "What's with that outfit?"

Konata sighed. "What, you've never seen a Gothic Lolita? That's the way they usually dress… well, usually their dresses are black, but that's the overall style. I've heard most of them can be quite mean, but… I guess the rumors are true."

Junpei looked at Konata while grimacing. "Look, I know what a Gothic Lolita is… I'm not THAT clueless… I just didn't expected to see one of them here, that's all!" his eyes went to the white girl again. "Hmm… I wonder what's she's drawing…"

"Hmm… who knows… Yaoi stuff, maybe?" she chuckled. "Hey, it's possible!"

"Yeah, right…" he shrugged, as both walked away.

08/24/09

"Dammit, I'm tired of your nagging!" the lower male voice said.

"Sorry, I won't take a no as an answer!" the other male voice replied.

Ken, who just got out of the Book On bookstore, tilted his head, wondering who those raises voices could belong to and looked beneath the railing. He could see two teenagers talking: it was Akihiko, who he admired because of his superb boxing skills and another guy with mid-long hair wearing a read coat and a beanie. For some reason, the child thought that shady guy looked somehow familiar, but… who could he be?

"You know…" Akihiko said with a slight smile. "Another member joined our group… it's a dog… a dog who's lost his master to the shadows… he kept on guarding the place his master died… despite all of the bad memories…"

The other teenager swayed his gaze without saying a word.

"We, too, saw someone die right before our eyes… but it's been two years… just… how long are you planning to beat yourself up over it? You're always in that back alley, not talking to anyone…"

The tall, shady guy shook his head. "It doesn't matter… what happened back then is all my fault and can't be erased… and even if I came to term with it, nothing would change… it's not as the same as what happened with Miki…"

"Shinji…" Akihiko lowered his gaze. He wanted to help his friend, but Shinjiro wasn't going to allow anybody in, so how could he?

"…enough with that… I just want to forget it ever happened…" Shinjiro grimly said as he walked away.

From the top floor of the strip mall, Ken stood there in shock, as if he heard something really terrible. The sound of someone calling his name didn't reach the child's ears… until he felt someone's hand shaking him. Instantly he faced the direction he felt the hand and saw Kumiko staring at him, worry in her crimson eyes. "Ku…Kumiko-San?"

"Hey, you alright, kiddo? You're as white as a ghost!" A young male voice said next to her. When Ken looked in that direction, he could see Shinn as well.

"No… no, I'm fine… don't worry about me." Ken sheepishly said. "What are you doing here, Kumiko-San? Shinn-San?"

"Well, Shinn wanted to see a few anime DVD featuring tough men, since Rei-Sensei suggested him to watch those so to be inspired to be tougher in battle… as for me, I'm currently handling a new promotion for the RK…" with that, the girl cleared her voice and started yelling ala Nobuyuki Hiyama (Authoress' note: a Japanese voice actor mostly specialized in hotblooded roles such as Guy Shishio from GaoGaiGar and Viral from Gurren Lagann… By the way, he also voiced adult Link from Legend of Zelda): "UOOOOOOH!!! JUST FOR THIS MONTH, PURCHASE A SUPER ROBOT ALLSTARS RK DOUJINSHI TO HAVE ONE THE GAMES THEY'RE FROM AS BONUS!!"

Once she was done, both Ken and Shinn stopped covering their own ears as Kumiko coughed for the strain she subjected her throat at. "Sorry, Anizawa-San suggested I had to be more passionate about stuff I publish, but… I just can't seem to do it properly…" she sighed.

Ken mused for a moment, his face troubled by something. He then faced Kumiko with determination. "Kumiko-San… do you know a person named Shinji?"

The girl blinked as Shinn complained about him practically popping out everywhere. "Well, I DO know someone named Shinji… don't let his look deceive you, he's not a bad person… although he didn't use to look like that until he disappeared a few years ago…"

"Would that be… two years ago…?" Ken asked in a strangely cold tone.

"Huh? That's right. But… why do you ask?" She asked, a chill running down her spine for a reason she couldn't figure out.

Instead of answering that question, Ken placed both hands on the iron railing. "…Kumiko-San…Shinn-San… I know it might sound strange but… don't laugh… I have a special power… I can see a hidden hour and summon a being named Persona…"

Kumiko and Shinn glanced at each other with a neutral face… that much they already knew after the latter overheard Ikutsuki hinting about Ken's potential.

"…why aren't you saying anything? Aren't you surprised ? Oh, maybe you don't believe me?" The child grimaced.

Both teenagers frantically shook their heads and pretended they were surprised.

"It really makes no difference, actually… anyway, I've heard there's a group of Persona-users named SEES… well, I decided to join that group…"

"Ken-Kun... isn't that… dangerous…?" Kumiko asked, not really knowing how to react… she could see it coming, but what would have the rest of SEES said?

"All this time, I wondered why I was given such a power… now, I think I've found the reason… I want to walk this path until the end… I'm sure that's also what mom would want…" Ken said as he faced both teenagers.

"But Ken-Kun…!" Kumiko wanted to protest, but Shinn held her.

"Kumiko… the kid means business… I don't know what caused him to decide this but he's going to do it anyway, so what's the use in stopping him…?" The younger of the two teenagers said, serious. I know it well, because Ken is just like me… I can see it in his eyes, he wants to take revenge on his mother's killer… and won't allow anything or anyone to stop him… just like I want to avenge my parents… and Mayu…

Finally, Ken faced both Kumiko and Shinn with a smile. "Please, stop worrying about me, Kumiko-San… I'll be fine! And once everything will be over, I'll go back at your place and have some of your grandmother's exquisite Sakura-Mochi!"

After uttering these words, Ken headed below. Kumiko didn't really understand what Ken's decision had to do with the questions he made about Shinjiro…

Then, it hit her: Ken's mother died two years earlier, just like Shinjiro suddenly changed two years earlier… were the two things related?

08/29/09

"And so I told Yukimura: 'since you're into retrogaming, I dare you to play Earthbound and beat the final boss, Giygas, during night!'… now THAT could be even creepier than a Survival Horror nighttime marathon! I mean, aren't things scarier when you can't expect them?" Konata didn't seem to stop talking, although her friend's mind was miles away. "Hey, are you even listening?"

"Man, this year is going fast…" Junpei sighed as he walked across the port station square.

"Don't you ever get tired of repeating that?" She mocked him. "Seriously, you're like a broken record!"

"Well, soon, second semester will start… and next year I will be a senior… time just passes on too quickly…" He sighed again.

"If you keep on worrying about that you'll completely stop enjoying life, Junpei-Kun! Remember Mr. Hanekoma's words in The World Ends With You? 'Enjoy the moment'!"

It was then that Junpei spotted the white-dressed girl Konata claimed to be a Gothic Lolita. After a few seconds, he decided to walk to her.

"Um, Junpei-Kun… do I have to remind you how rude she was at us?" Konata said, crossing her arms. Then, seeing he didn't stop, she shrugged as she followed him. "Well, if you want her to bash that sketchbook on your head, then be my guest…"

"You two again…?" The red-haired Gothic Lolita said without removing her eyes from her sketchbook.

"Oh, you remembered us!" Junpei said with a shy smile.

"Same goes for you…"

"Well… you kinda stand out in that dress of yours…"

True enough… how can you forget someone with such a fancy getup…? Konata thought as she felt something building up inside her… what was it?

"So…" Junpei said, noticing that the girl wasn't going to stop drawing "What are you drawing?"

"Nothing. Why?"

"Well, I just thought that having something you're really into must be nice…"

"I only draw because I like to, it's no big deal."

"Still, I'd like to see it once you're done!"

"Junpei-Kun… she doesn't want to talk to you, can't you tell? Let's just leave her alone before she REALLY bashes you with her sketchbook…" Konata said as she pulled Junpei away by his arm. The mysterious looking girl simply watched the two of them walking away and blinked.

08/31/09

Once again, Junpei and Konata were strolling through the Port Island Station main square. Once again, they spotted the white-dressed, red-haired sketching girl. But this time Konata felt annoyed by her presence for some reason… she just couldn't ponder why exactly. "Lemme guess… you want to talk to that girl again, huh? Didn't think you were into Gothic Lolita girls…" she said, mocking him.

"Don't be ridiculous, Kona-Chan! I just want to chat with her, that's all! Wouldn't you like to befriend her?" Junpei chuckled as he approached the sketching girl. "So, we meet again, huh?"

She kept on sketching without looking at him… as always. "That's because you keep coming back."

"I'm Junpei… and this girl here is Konata. What's your name? Are you from around here?"

The girl didn't answer: she simply closed her sketchbook and got up. Junpei noticed something that made him wince: there was a deep-looking cut on the girl's hand which just wouldn't have stopped bleeding.

"Hey, your hand…!" He cried, causing Konata to face her.

The girl wasn't going to stop, so he grabbed her arm, looking in her eyes. The small, blue-haired girl felt something strange as she saw it.

"I said wait!" he cried. "You're hurt!"

The girl in white flashed him with angry eyes. "Why don't you just mind your business?!"

"But you're bleeding, for cryin' out loud!" he said as she grabbed her hurt hand. "You need to put some pressure so to stop the bleeding…"

The girl in white blinked. "Why are you in such a panic?"

"Because he knows how to be nice… you know, you oughta learn a thing or two from him!" Konata said without looking at them.

"….you're a weird guy…" the girl said, delicately shrugging Junpei's hand off. She then started walking away but stopped for a moment to look at the two. "Chidori."

Both Junpei and Konata blinked.

"…my name. I thought you asked it… Junpei, right? I'm almost done with the picture… I doubt you'll understand it, but… if you still want to see it, you know where to find me." Chidori said as she left.

Junpei watched her walking away and sighed. Then, to Konata. "You think she's going to be OK? That cut worries me…"

Konata stayed silent for a moment. She then shrugged without looking at him. "Meh, I wouldn't worry about her… it didn't seem too painful."

"Kona-Chan… you're acting weird… something wrong?"

She smiled: "…must be your imagination! I just remembered that Kumi-Chan wanted to do a multiplayer session with the Ragnarok Online DS game! So… sorry for leaving you this way!"

Junpei didn't have time to say a word that Konata already rushed towards the trains as fast as the wind.

Chidori: A bizarre and mysterious girl who's mostly spotted in the Port Island station square sketching stuff. She seems like living in her own world, not sharing a word with any other person and always fancies a Gothic Lolita white outfit. She seems to be somehow related to the internet avengers group, or rather, Strega and to be able to move during the Dark Hour… what is her real power and her true goal?

09/01/09

"Yuki-Kun… that uniform…" Miyuki choked, placing a hand over her mouth.

Yukimura simply blushed. "I know, I know… makes me look like one of those wealthy spoiled brats, huh…? Man, this sure is stiff!"

The girl with glasses shook her head. "Not at all, it looks good on you… but why didn't you tell me you were transferring to Gekkoukan High School yourself?"

The red-haired teenager didn't answer. He simply stared at the floor with a slight blush.

"If he did tell you, it would have spoiled the surprise." Rei said as he walked downstairs carrying his briefcase.

"Surprise?" The girls asked.

"Um… nothing…. Come on, you won't be late the first day of the new semester now!"

After that, the girls guided Yukimura (Who covered his uniform with his typical bomber jacket), making him see the way to reach the new school. Once they reached it, the young man looked up at the modern-looking building, not knowing what to say exactly.

"So, what do you think?" Tsukasa asked. "Impressive, isn't it?"

"…that's not the word I had in mind…" Yukimura said. It'd better not be filled with folks like Gin, or else I'll puke… for some reason, I think he'd feel like home here!

"I know you must feel out of place… even I felt like that when I first came here… but you'll get used to it." Miyuki smiled.

"It's different for you, Miyuki-Chan... such a school befits your social status…!" Konata said with a playful smile.

They then spotted Kumiko, who was wearing her typical blue sweater over her school uniform shirt and her thigh-length stockings. As always, the girl was running incredibly fast, but stopped once she noticed Yukimura. "Good morning, everyone. Good morning, Yuki-Kun…"

"Tell me the truth, Kumiko… I look like a moron in this uniform, right?" Yukimura asked, still feeling uneasy about his new, stiff school uniform.

"You look OK to me… but you would like to take off that bomber jacket… do you want to get in trouble with the teachers? Don't forget, first impression in a new school is vital, it marks you for life… that's why life in school is so tough!" She replied with a slight smile.

He grinned. "Damn straight… in fact, I have to work on my reputation immediately."

"And no matter what you do… watch out for a guy named Hidetoshi Odagiri… he's the one in charge of the Disciplinary Committee… he doesn't take crap from anyone and despises anyone bending rules. He can be quite a pain in the neck because of that." She added, raising a finger in a motherly way

"…I don't know him, but I already can't stand him…" Yukimura said with a groan.

Then, they all walked inside the school while talking merrily… when Kumiko suddenly felt a chill running down her spine. Immediately she spun around and saw Athrun running toward Miyuki. "Miyuki, dearest! You're as radiant as ever today!" he screamed as he leaped on her. Kumiko moved to intercept him, but Yukimura was faster than her and met him with a powerful punch right into the jaw, followed by a kick in his mid-section which caused him to slid backwards. The surrounding students gasped and stood back as they saw it.

"I thought I told you to not lay your filthy fingers on her, you son of a bitch!" The red-haired teenager muttered as he looked down to Athrun with a punkish grimace.

After a few seconds of silence, some students started whispering among themselves.

"Whoa, did you see that?" A female student, a sophomore asked.

"Yeah, that was incredible!" Another student, a junior whispered back.

"Hey, isn't that guy a new kid?" A male junior said.

"I've heard rumors about him" a female senior said. "He used to be a punk in his old school…"

"Geeze, now we can no longer say there are no people like that in this school… I'm sure there will be trouble…" a geek-looking sophomore said.

Yukimura, of course, noticed all of the people gossiping around him. As a new kid, he expected reaction and all, but he wanted to point he wasn't a guy to take crap from anyone since the first day. He put both hands in his jacket's pockets and threw piercing stares at all of the nosy students around, who immediately winced and withdrew. Kumiko looked at the whole scene and snickered. The similarity between him and Shinjiro was just too strong.

"Well, what's going on, here?!" A student wearing a yellow armband approached. He had pulled back black hair and a smart-ish smile on his face as he examined Yukimura thoroughly. "The new kid, hm… you're not in this school since even five minutes and already cause all of this commotion?"

"Speak of the devil…" Kumiko whispered. "That's Odagiri… I'm afraid you won't get off the hook that easily now…"

Yukimura sighed and smirked at Hidetoshi. "…Got a problem with that? That's how I handle things."

"You got some nerve, new kid… you're officially in my blacklist, so brace yourself. I'll make sure you'll be treated as the lowlife you are!" Odagiri said as he ran inside after hearing the bell ringing.

Konata put both hands on her side with a smirk. "Oooh, sca-ree… just try it! Sanada here will kick your arse so hard you'll kiss the moons!"

09/02/09

Kumiko stretched as she walked toward the school entrance once again. School was in session since a day, but that didn't mean she dislike waking up in early morning any less. As she rushed inside, she noticed a female student she never saw before, one who didn't seem being Japanese at all, since her short hair was blond.

Then, she noticed it: the girl wore a metallic headset! She approached the girl and saw Kenji was with her; it was Aigis alright.

"Greetings, Kumiko-San." Aigis said formally.

Once again, the senior examined her with a satisfied smile: the android was even cuter wearing the Gekkoukan school uniform. "Is there an outfit that doesn't look cute on you, Aigis-Chan?? But… I didn't expect to see you attending school."

"It is my demand that I attend school in order to stand by his side." The android said.

"By…Kenji's side?" Kumiko asked.

"That is correct. My duty is to stay by his side all the time." Aigis replied once again.

A strong noise to their left caught their attention. All they could see was Tsukasa with a fist stretched toward the closest stone bench, which featured a new crack. The girl's eyes were concealed by her forelocks. After a few instants of trance, she lifted her head and looked around, confused; that's when she could feel her own hand screaming in pain and clenched it while crying. Noticing something off about Tsukasa, Kumiko pushed Aigis inside the school. Kenji moved to do the same but felt someone grabbing his arm: Yukimura.

"OK, kid… mark my words well: I've heard you've been dating several girls… try and make Tsukasa cry and it will be my fist to do the talking… capiche?" he said with a piercing stare.

Kenji looked at him with worried eyes and nodded several times before entering the school.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sweet shop sliding door closed as the quiet-looking, black-dressed teenager strolled outside with a small bag. Satisfied, he looked inside, his violet eyes smiling for once. Got to get her try it out one of these days… Kira thought as he nodded.

Then, some voices caught his attention. He could recognize Shinjiro's voice, but… who was the other one? It wasn't one of "them"... curious, he looked to his right, where the voices came from.

"You're getting on my nerves!" Shinjiro spat.

"The situation has changed… sorry, but this time, I'm not asking!" The other guy, a silver-haired boy with a red vest over his white shirt quietly said. Kira could see another boy, one with blue hair, some bangs covering his right eye. The silver-haired one showed a briefcase to Shinjiro. "This belongs to you. We have a new enemy now… they're Persona-users like us."

Kira frowned, placing a hand over his mouth. It was just as he anticipated: with Strega butting in, things were becoming more and more hectic. But would that have been enough for Shinjiro? After all, he was involved with them… in fact, he was starting to leave.

But the silver-haired boy didn't flinch. "There's more… Ken Amada has joined our group."

Finally, his words caused a reaction from the one in the red coat, who looked pretty shocked. "What are you talking about?!"

His friend nodded. "He's got the potential and Ikutsuki-San okayed it. Now he's a Persona-user as well."

Shinjiro frowned. "…let me ask you one thing… was his decision to join SEES?"

He nodded, saying that the boy volunteered.

"I see… well then, count me in." Shinjiro said as he quietly took the briefcase from his friend's hands and asked something to the blue-haired boy before leaving, as the other two walked the other direction. Seeing he was walking his way, Kira walked to meet him.

"Sorry, I overheard… so… you finally decided to rejoin them, hm?" Despite his words, Kira's face betrayed worry.

"…isn't that what you wanted me to do? Can't you look a little happier?... man, I'll never put up with you. You're so hard to please…" Shinjiro said as he shrugged.

Kira looked at the iron platform they stood on. "I can't shake off the feeling something terrible will happen, that's all… tell me the truth… that person named Ken Amada is the reason you rejoined SEES, right?"

Shinjiro turned his back to the boy, his beanie concealing his eyes. "…it's none of your business."

He was about to leave but Kira stepped in front of him, looking right into his eyes. "Shinjiro… please…" he whispered.

The shady teenager cringed as he saw his face: his eyes, his smile… his whole expression was sweet in an over-mushy way! "Ugh… please… don't do it… don't you have any manly pride?!" Shinjiro muttered as his whole body shuddered.

Instead of stopping, Kira sweetened his smile and looked at him with pleading, sad puppy eyes.

"Ugh… OK, OK… I'll tell you everything! Just STOP giving me that look…"

09/04/09

Once the class was over, as always, Konata, Miyuki, the Hiiragi sisters, Yukimura and Kumiko gathered together to talk for a while before going back home. As they conversed, they noticed Akihiko leaving: he seemed in a good mood for a change. Since the other students already left, Kumiko felt free to talk with him as a fellow Persona-user.

"…you're looking in a great mood. How peculiar, since it's a full moon tomorrow…" she smirked.

He shook a finger to her while grinning. "…you should know I'm not one to get nervous about that. Besides, I'm confident about this operation more than ever."

Konata, who didn't seem to be in the usual good mood, eyed him with a sardonic smile. "…you're just glad because your boyfriend joined the party."

"He's not my boyfriend! Besides, it's a long story!" Akihiko replied, annoyed. He then looked at Kumiko with worry. By the way… did Shinji tell anything to her?

Noticing the worry in his eyes, Kumiko tilted her head, but he said it was nothing to worry about. Meanwhile, Konata got ready to leave, saying she was going to stalk Junpei, explaining how he kept on meeting Chidori… she also claimed she was going to buy some Gothic Lolita clothes sooner or later, causing everyone to be awestruck.

Later that day, Konata headed to the Port Island station square, where she was sure to see Junpei talking to that Chidori girl... which he did. Immediately, she hid behind a bench by the movie theater so to not be noticed and overheard their conversation as she felt something swelling inside her.

"Say, Chidori… can I see your hand?" Junpei asked.

Without saying a word, the girl stopped sketching and stretched out her hand. The capped teenager was surprised to see there was no scar at all, while the whole notion made a warning bell sound inside Konata's mind… something was definitely strange about that girl!

"Junpei…" Chidori quietly talked. "What do you do to make yourself feel alive?"

He chuckled. "Dunno… breathing, I guess? Honestly, I never thought about it before… what about you, Chidori? Is that the reason you draw?"

"Maybe… I don't understand myself very well." She sighed.

Junpei sat next to her. Unconsciously, Konata clenched one of the bench legs, causing it to shake.

"To tell you the truth, there is something that makes me feel alive…" he said with a confident smile. "when I get to play hero."

Chidori blinked, confused as he clenched his fist and said with a smirk: "In a hidden hour no one knows about, Junpei, one of the chosen heroes who know about it, fights the forces of evil in order to save the world!" he then got up and looked at her with a boyish smile. "You get the idea, that's when I feel alive."

Chidori simply stared at him without saying a word, making him feel awkward. Geez, Junpei, you don't have to say it… how can you be so careless and naïve? Konata thought as her eyes narrowed.

"You're s'posed to laugh, y'know…" He stuttered.

"So… do you fight all alone?" She asked.

"Hey, you don't need to take it seriously! I'm just joking around!"

"…fighting in a hidden hour no one knows about means no one will give you any recognition, since no one knows what you're doing… is that fine to you? I didn't know you were that kind of person. I'm impressed." Chidori remarked with a smile. For some reason, Konata thought it was really cold.

As for Junpei, he couldn't believe the girl actually believed his words.

She nodded. "Please, tell me more."

"OK, but don't tell anyone, will you?" Junpei grinned.

That whole matter caused Konata to facepalm. Was he serious in telling her the whole story so nonchalantly?! She could feel things would have become more complicated… or maybe she was just jealous?

Junpei put both hands on his sides and grinned. "You see, there's this power called 'Persona' which is the only thing that can defeat the evil monsters… that's why I was talking about chosen heroes! My friends are fighting too… and since I joined their group, we've been kicking serious ass. And there's more! There are also more friends of mine who formed another group… sometimes they even help us out in our fight… yeah, they totally rock!"

Chidori smiled again. "Sounds fun. Are you the leader in your group? It sounds to me you're pretty strong."

Junpei faltered for a moment, then he nodded. "I guess you could say that. They would be lost without me! Yes, being a leader is tough…"

The red-haired girl closed her sketchbook and got up. "I need to go now. Today was fun… thank you, Junpei. See you tomorrow, OK?" she said before she left. Seeing that as a clue, Konata got out of her hiding place and approached Junpei, fairly serious.

Seeing that he wasn't paying her any attention, she cleared her voice.

Finally, he turned in her direction while smiling broadly. "'Sup, Kona-Chan! Didn't see ya!"

"Don't ''Sup, Kona-Chan' me." She said, annoyed. "Are you really-really sure telling that girl about your role as a Persona-user is a good idea?"

Junpei blinked. "What do you mean?"

She shook her head. "I don't know how to say it in a non-painful way, but… I don't trust Chidori."

He merrily patted her head. "Now, now… since when do you worry so much, Kona-Chan? I know she might seem a little rude at first, but Chidori's actually a very nice girl!"

She grabbed his shoulders while looking in his eyes. "Listen! That cut on her hand healed too quickly… and she was way too interested in your hero games! Call it gamer's insight, but she can't be trusted."

Junpei's smiled turned into a frown. "Fine, I see how it is… you can't accept I can hang around with other girls so you're recurring to this… you're just envious, aren't ya?"

Konata puffed while placing a finger on her forehead. "Look, I'm just trying to warn you…"

But he didn't reply… rather, he walked away, annoyed. "I thought you were better than that, Konata… in any case, I'll see her again tomorrow, regardless of what you say!"

The girl looked at him walking away and swayed her gaze while puffing again. You don't want to see the facts? OK, be my guest. Not my problem…

09/05/09

Knowing that that night would have been a full moon night, the Kagayaku members agreed in meeting each other at the hotel before the Dark Hour occurred, so to be ready for any possible mission Rei had to give them.

Konata, who knew what the full moon meant for both groups, decided to contact Junpei in order to wish him good luck in that night battle against the shadow that would have appeared; although she didn't like the attitude he had in those last days, she didn't really feel like staying mad at him and wanted to demonstrate she's not one to hold any grudge – and maybe to make him feel a little guilty for ditching her –. A few hours before the Dark Hour occurred, she picked up her cell phone to call him. Strangely, he didn't answer the call. Maybe he's using the toilet? She thought as she tried calling him again… then two, three, four more times. Nothing, he didn't answer at all. Pouting, she put down the phone and picked up her DS so to kill time before the Dark Hour arrived.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Good, I see you're all here." Rei said as he once again entered his room, where the seven members of Kagayaku were gathered.

"So, what's the mission today?" Shinn asked, determined to complete his upcoming task more than ever, the reason clear enough for everyone.

Rei fixed his glasses on his nose and sat down. "As you probably know, both we and SEES suffered an assault by a third group of Persona-users, Strega. Fortunately, we all managed to handle the situation and our group also gained vital momentum by seizing one of the members of Strega."

They all nodded as Shinn clenched his fists… he wouldn't have never forgiven Strega for involving Stellar in that whole mess; if they were the enemy, he would have been glad to pummel them for good.

Rei continued: "Now, it's sure enough that Strega won't stop targeting SEES and Kagayaku anytime soon… that's why we must be on our guard and vigilant all the time. But we must be cautious, for we know virtually nothing about our enemy… and charging right into the enemy without knowing all of their peculiarities equals to suicide."

Tsukasa shuddered. "…but then… what are we going to do, Kuro-Sensei?"

The teacher frowned. "For now, I wish you to keep the situation on eye, so to make sure nothing serious will happen… if the need arises, I want you to intercept Strega and stop them before they cause any casualty."

Kumiko puffed as she rested her cheek on her hand. "In other words, we're on standby for the time being…"

"…At least we'll get some time to rest…" Kagami said as she leaned back on the couch.

Rei gestured Miyuki to scan the whole situation via Personomicon in order to monitor the situation. Immediately, the girl could pick up a gigantic shadow by Paulownia Mall… and nine Persona-users moving in that direction, the SEES members.

Noticing something off, the pretty young woman frowned. Rei noticed and asked her what was wrong.

"…according to my latest information, SEES was supposed to have ten members by now, since Aragaki-San has now joined their ranks… what is the meaning of this? Why do I sense only nine?" she said as she focused on Personomicon even harder.

"…are you sure, Miyuki?" Athrun asked as he cupped his chin.

She nodded, without removing her eyes from the book-shaped Persona. "…it's so strange. I can clearly recognize and pinpoint all of the SEES members… but for some reason, I'm having a hard time detecting Iori-San."

"Iori… you mean… Junpei-Kun is missing?" Konata leaped in front of her, tense. Now she was starting to worry; first he didn't answer the phone and now this? It couldn't just be a coincidence.

"Hm? Didn't he tell you anything?" Kagami asked.

The small girl put both hands behind her back and dug the floor with her foot while pouting. "Well… we haven't talked to each other since yesterday… and even yesterday, he was too wrapped in talking to this Chidori girl to pay any attention to me."

Shinn's mind snapped as he got up his seat. "What?! Did you say Chidori?!"

"You know her?" She asked.

"Um, no… not personally…" he replied while staring at his feet, frustrated. "…but Stellar often told me about someone named Chidori she used to stay with before we held her."

A grim silence covered the room as realization struck all of them.

Konata then clenched her fists and glanced outside. I knew it! I knew there was something fishy about her! "…wanna bet she contacted Junpei just because he's a Persona-user? And that idiot stupidly told her the whole story!"

Kumiko crossed her arms and closed her eyes. "…given the circumstances we can't exclude the girl is involved with Junpei's disappearance…"

"Are you sure you can't detect anything, Yuki-Chan? Not even if you try it really, really, really hard?" Tsukasa asked Miyuki with concern.

Miyuki closed her eyes and focused on Personomicon even harder; her whole head started spinning as she fell in some sort of trance, her eyes becoming Personomicon's. "You, whose eyes can see what others can't… you, who can see the world for what it really is… I beseech you… reveal the truth which is concealed to my sight…"after a few more seconds of concentration, she sensed something and frowned. "…mystifying…? His presence is being… mystified…? Is this what you're trying to say, Personomicon…?"

Shinn snapped his fingers. "Hmm! Maybe the girl's Persona has some special power allowing her to nullify her presence and preventing her to be detected!... and the same goes for those around her!""

Both Athrun and Kagami hushed him, so to not break Miyuki's concentration. Miyuki's face relaxed as she kept her eyes shut. "Now I see, Asuka-San… It's not Iori-San's presence I need to focus on… I must try and break the girl's wall."

"Can you do it, Miyuki?" Kagami asked, concerned.

"I… I'm not sure, but… I need to try!" the girl with glasses frowned once again as beads of sweat started forming on her forehead. The two twins looked at her with concern.

Rei put a hand on Kagami's shoulder and nodded, decisive. "Believe in her power. That's all you can do. As far as I'm concerned, she will do just fine."

Suddenly, Miyuki's eyes snapped open. "AH! I can see her! She's within Iwatodai dorm… and Iori-San is with her!"

Everyone jolted as they heard it. "You mean the SEES guys had Junpei right under their nose all along?! That's idiotic!" Kagami spat.

Konata looked at Kumiko, literally asking her to deploy and save him. If Junpei was in danger, she wasn't going to stand and watch, she wanted to help him. The girl in blue sighed and stood up herself. "I think Rei-Sensei made it all clear enough… the orders are to intercept Strega in the event they tried to assault either us or SEES… besides, I think SEES will bee too busy with the shadow to take care of this. In other words, it's all up to us…"

The smallest girl clenched her fist and grinned. "That's my Kumi-Chan!" she then saluted. "Yes sir! Commencing 'Operation Rescue Junpei!'"

"Hold it." Kumiko said, placing a hand in front of herself. "Don't forget we are to infiltrate the dorm… it's highly possible that the Chairman is still there… and we can't exclude the girl has the same power Miyuki has… in other words, we must be very cautious in this operation."

Konata nonchalantly put both hands behind her head and smiled playfully. "I know, I know. Don't worry about that! For the record, I'm an ace at games like Tenchu and Metal Gear Solid…"

Kagami shook her head, reminding her this was no game and then everyone went outside as Rei told them he had something to take care of. As soon as they left, the teacher walked upstairs, where Yukimura's room was.

Unknown to the rest of the group, Rei had monitored Yukimura's behaviour and reactions to the whole Dark Hour matter; first of all, the young red-haired man didn't Transmogrify into a coffin and, aside a few irregularities during his sleep, his conditions were perfectly normal and he wasn't targeted by shadows. In other words, there were really high chances Yukimura was a Persona-user himself… just as Rei himself anticipated. He only needed a good chance for his potential to sprout… and maybe that night was the perfect setup for it…

As soon as he arrived in front of Yukimura's room, Rei knocked on the door so to wake him up, took out a piece of paper he wrote down and slipped it under the door before leaving.

Hearing the knocking, Yukimura – whose slumber wasn't very deep around that time – snapped his wide open and rose up in a sitting position as he looked around. The greenish aura and grim silence around him caused a chill to run down his spine… and… he was not sure since the room was dark but… was something dripping on he wall?

Immediately, he touched his way to the bedside lamp and tried to turn it on… strangely, it didn't seem to work… groaning, he moved to the window and opened the tent so to have some more light… he choked as he looked at the moon… so big, pale and bright, emanating a pale green glow. He then, looked at the streets; the view left him dumbfounded… why there were blood stains all over… and what were all those coffins?! I'll be damned if this isn't related to the time-space phenomenon I've heard about…and I wasn't going to believe it! He thought as he stepped backwards. Creeped out, his first instinct was to check on Miyuki to see how she was doing. As soon as his eyes got used to the dimly lit space around him, he reached the first clothes he could find in that dark place, his school uniform, and moved to open the door … when he noticed the piece of paper on the doorway and picked it up, then moving toward the window so to have some more light. It was Rei's handwriting.

"They're going to the Iwatodai dorm.

You're planning to follow them, right?

There's some stuff you might find useful in the storeroom downstairs.

Remember, open up your mind, take control of it and focus… that's the key.

Good luck.

--RK"

Tch… he got it all figured out… as always…Yukimura thought as he mockingly waved the piece of paper. As he headed inside the storeroom, the red-haired youth first had a hard timing getting used to the surrounding darkness. Once he did, he could spot an object which was similar to a joystick, a spark-shaped pin and one single weapon, a cross-shaped spear. Did he mean this stuff, hm? What am I supposed to do with this? Yukimura thought with a grimace as he picked up the pin and the joystick. He then groaned and shook his head. He needed to hurry if he wanted to catch up with Miyuki and the others… and the weapon in the storeroom could only mean one thing: he was getting himself in something dangerous!

But he wasn't going to falter. Not if he could do something to help her… and the others. He wouldn't have turned back! It would have been against his nature. With a smirk, he took the pin and wore it on his jacket, he then laced the joystick bag to his belt and vigorously grabbed the spear with both hands, trying it out a few times: it was lighter and easier to handle than he thought. Feeling ready, he stretched a fist in front of himself and said: "…Groovy!" before leaving for the dorm.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Found it yet, Yuki-Chan?"

"Give me one moment, Izumi-San… don't be patient…"

"…it's not like we have much time, you know!"

Konata just wouldn't have stopped grumbling: the whole situation made her so frustrated she couldn't help but be upset at everyone.

Kagami put both hands on her sides and shook her head. "Look, Konata… we know you're worried about Junpei… but it won't do anything good if you cause Miyuki-San to overexert herself… she's already exhausted by cracking that girl's wall, you wouldn't want her to collapse during the operation, right?"

"Ah… please, don't be concerned about my well-being, Hiiragi-San… I will be fine…" Miyuki weakly said as she still had her hands stretched on Personomicon. Kagami winced as she noticed, from the girl's face, how hard using her power was becoming to her as her whole body quivered with effort.

"Miyuki… it's alright… we can search Junpei on our own… knowing he's within the dorm is enough to us… please…" Kumiko said, looking at Miyuki with growing worry.

"I said I am fine… please… I want to be of usef… uh…" Miyuki couldn't finish the phrase as she felt too weak to even stand up and was forced on her knees as her eyesight became blurry and her head started to hurt, causing Personomicon to vanish.

Immediately, everyone rushed to her. Unfortunately, her momentary incapacity at scanning the surrounding area caused her to not notice a shadow approaching.

The rest of the group braced itself for battle, but before the creature had the chance to attack, its head was stabbed by a spear appearing from nowhere. After a few seconds of pain, the shadow dissolved itself, revealing a familiar-looking red-haired teenager behind him; the youth was wielding a sharp-looking cross-shaped spear and his face was filled with determination until the shadow wasn't done disappearing; after that, he rested the spear on his shoulder and sighed.

"Y…Yukimura??" Everyone was astonished to see him in a battle asset. Kumiko wondered if this had something to do with the letter Rei sent to him… maybe he was scouting him on purpose, as a Persona-user?

"Good… looks like I got here in time… so THIS is the research you're doing on a certain time-space phenomenon… talk about extreme and unorthodox!" Yukimura said while arching an eyebrow.

"Yes, well… it's a long story… but we'll have more time for that… right now, we must rescue a friend who's somewhere in this building!" Konata said, for once without her usual perkiness.

Then, noticing Miyuki's condition, the newcomer sunk on her knees. "W…what happened to you?! You weren't assaulted by those things, right?!" he then glanced at Athrun, who put both hands on his chest and frantically shook his head.

Miyuki smiled weakly. "…you're such a worrier… I'm fine… I'm just a little tired after using my power too much, that's all…"

Kumiko crossed her arms with a sigh. "Well, you're done analyzing outside for today… this time, you're coming inside with us." The pink-haired girl wanted to protest, but Kumiko smiled at her, decisive. "I told you, we'll handle it anyway. You've done enough already, so don't worry."

Then, the group leader described the strategy they would have used: as herself, Konata, Athrun and the twins searched inside the dorm, Shinn and Miyuki would have taken over the control room to hasten the process. "Um… I'm sorry but I didn't foresee your presence here, Yukimura-Kun… think you be on watch duty no problem?"

"Sure, whatever." Yukimura shrugged. "If any other bugger appears, I'll make sure to kick their sorry ass!"

"Good. If something happens, we'll contact each other via transceiver." She said.

With that, they all got inside the dorm as Yukimura stood there. Not much time elapsed before a few shadows started approaching, sensing the presence of non-Transmogrified people in the area.

"Tch… they're a bit too many to handle with just my spear… time to try that little gizmo, I guess." Yukimura grimaced as he took out the joystick-shaped Evoker and tried to remember the words on Rei's note: "Open up your mind, take control of it and focus…" wonder if it's related to this… guess I got nothing to lose… beside … well… all of it?

Closing his eyes, he grabbed the object and concentrated. After a few instants, he felt something building up inside him as a name came in his mind.

"I'm leaving it to you…NOBUSHIGE!!" He yelled as he pressed the button on the joystick.

As crystals of blue energy separated from Yukimura's body, they took the shape of some sort of ancient samurai warrior wearing a red armor and an ancient-looking helmet.

The samurai spoke with a deep and solemn voice: "I am Nobushige, the blade that guards you. As we share the same fate, I shall accompany you through the ordeals of life."

After uttering these words, Nobushige wielded his powerful-looking spear, spun it around and slashed the entire bunch of shadows, obliterated them. Once the big cloud of dust dissolved, Yukimura still couldn't believe it… did he really do it? And… Miyuki and the others had the same power? There were still so many questions he needed answers to…

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Being really careful to not make any noise as he slightly opened the command room door, Shinn looked inside: right in front of the main computer, Chairman Shuji Ikutsuki was on the verge of dozing off, his body limp on his chair. Seeing that, Shinn silently cursed as Miyuki grew apprehensive. "Now what are we going to do?" she asked.

Hushing her, he opened the door a little bit more so to get inside, being even more careful about not making any single noise. Then, he tiptoed right behind the Chairman, tapped his right shoulder and as soon as he turned around, he hit the rear of his head hard, causing a hollow thud. Ikutsuki muttered some weird gibberish before collapsing on the floor. Shinn silently apologized at the man and gestured Miyuki to come inside.

"Umm… wasn't that a bit… um… extreme, Asuka-San?" She asked while frowning.

Shinn looked at her and arched an eyebrow. "Cool off, Miyuki! It's not like I killed him… besides, there's something about him I find really annoying… can't exactly explain what… anyway, think you can get rid of him? Hide him in that small room over there…"

Miyuki nodded and started dragging Ikutsuki's limp body inside the small room: it was still rather heavy and it took her quite a physical effort to drag him around. Cursing because she couldn't do it any faster, Shinn sat right in front of the computer and turned it on: as to be expected, it was operative during the Dark Hour and all of the dorm's cameras were connected to it; using that feature, he was able to check all of the rooms at the same time.

"A-ha! Found'im!" Shinn proclaimed while smirking. "The dorm roof! And… just as we thought, there's a girl with him!"

Miyuki, who was done hiding the Chairman in the side room and was catching some breath snapped her head in his direction and clasped her hands. "Y…you did?? Is he alive??"

"…for now. Hurry up and contact the others!"

Placing both hands on her chest, she focused on Personomicon once more so to talk with the rest of the group. "Everyone! We have found Iori-San! He's on the roof… and… there is a young woman with him!"

Kumiko's voice arrived at her ears. "Got it… come on, guys! We're heading to the roof, there's no time to waste."

Miyuki then picked another voice, Athrun's. "Hey, look… I've found Mitsuru's room…"

Then, a loud bang and the group leader talking in a louder voice. "Stay away from that door and move it!"

Meanwhile, Shinn started searching inside the computer; being SEES affiliated to the Kirijo group, their main computer was bound to have many information about the current situation… maybe even information they kept hidden from the members themselves. After tinkering with the big device for a while, he found a series of old records and charts about the Kirijo group's activities in the last ten years, their study about the Persona potential and a few data about shadows met so far.

"Hm? 'Project Nyx – Fall and Rebirth of modern society'…? What's this?" Shinn thought aloud as he found a suspicious-looking file and clicked on it.

Unfortunately, the file was protected and no matter how hard he tried, it appeared his skills weren't enough to break through its multiple protection layers. "Tch… figures… well, it can only mean one thing… this is important, restricted info… I'd better save this and bring it back to the hotel… maybe Kuro-Sensei can help w-"

Shinn's verbalized thoughts were interrupted by Miyuki screaming, which caused him to turn around, ready to take action.

"AAH! ASUKA-SAN!! Look here! There are so many interesting books about human psyche and philosophy… I've even read some of them, they're very good!"

Shinn wanted to say something, but words just didn't come out… instead, he left out a guttural moan as his shoulder collapsed. "Yeah, yeah… it's very nice, Miyuki… but… do I have to remind you we are in the middle of an operation?!"

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kumiko and the others were right in front of the door leading to the roof, which was partially open. Trying hard to not be seen, she and Konata took a peek outside: Junpei was kneeling down on the floor, his hands tied up as a red-haired girl in a white frilly dress was talking to him. Konata couldn't mistake, that girl was Chidori alright. The small blue-haired girl could feel anger swelling up inside her.

Noticing it, Kumiko grabbed her shoulder and shook it. "Hey… hey! Konata! Keep your emotions under controls, or else the plan will not work… we must keep quiet and wait for the right chance to jump on her…"

"It's no use." Chidori's cold voice caused them all to wince. "I knew you were here all along, so stop hiding and show yourselves."

Cursing, Konata slammed the door open and rushed right into the rooftop, followed by the rest of the group.

The red-haired girl grimaced as she readied her weapon: a fireman hatchet connected to a length of chain. "Hmph… I figured you had something up… you left yourself get caught too easily… you were planning this all along, didn't you, Junpei? After all, that girl over there is a friend of yours, am I mistaken?"

Junpei blinked. No, he didn't think any of that. Kagayaku wasn't there because he contacted them… but most important, why was Chidori doing this?!

"I KNEW you were up to no good…" Konata said, her words filled with poison. "…but not like this…"

Chidori pierced her with her ice-cold eyes. "…what you mean is, you WISHED things to go like this…"

"Ooh? Recurring to mind games, now?" the small Kagayaku girl readied her two-handed sword, serious. "Give it up, Chidori. You might be a member of Strega, but there's just so much you can do when you're alone against five Persona-users."

Junpei jolted as soon as he heard his friend's words. Chidori, a member of Strega? An enemy?! He wouldn't have believed it, he couldn't!

Chidori didn't say a word, which caused Konata to be even angrier. She charged to attack her, but the white-dressed girl pointed her hatched a few inches from Junpei's face. "Maybe you do not grasp the situation you are getting into… I doubt you'd want something to happen to your friend here, right?"

Konata stopped but didn't lower her weapon. Kumiko moved to halt her, when she heard a beeping sound from her transceiver.

"Fukuyama-San! Hurry up and free Iori-San!" Miyuki's voice came to her ear, full of apprehension. "The SEES members are done defeating the shadow and will be here shortly!"

"Already?! Damn…" Kumiko grimaced. Then, an idea started taking shape in her mind as the grimace turned into a smirk. Wait… we can use the situation at our advantage… she then whispered to Miyuki: "It's alright, Miyuki… once they arrive, I want Yukimura to bring them here where we are."

"W…what?! But this way they'll know we sneaked inside their dorm?!" The pretty navigator cried.

"I'll take responsibility for that… just trust me and do what I say. Meanwhile, we'll buy enough time for them to come here!"

"A…alright… I'll tell Yukimura-Kun then…" Miyuki shakily said before breaking contact.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yet another shadow succumbed by Nobushige's power, which vanished as soon as the creature disappeared. Once the surrounding atmosphere cooled off and shadows finally stopped arriving, an exhausted Yukimura slowly sat down on the floor. The continuous usage of his newborn potential demanded a major strain to his body and now he was completely drained. Shit… why are they taking so long… and what the fuck was that last order about?! He thought as he panted heavily, unable to stand up.

Then, some far away voices caught his hear as a group made of seven teenagers, an elementary schoolboy and a dog approached. Yukimura recognized most of them, since he met them at the new school.

"…Takeda?! What are you doing here?!" Akihiko asked. Of course, he recognized his newest classmate. "Don't tell me you're a Persona-user as well?"

"What I am doing? Heh, nice question… I was waiting for you guys… things got kinda hectic in here, why don't you take a look inside? And… I won't tell you if you don't want me to, but…"

"Now I see… his potential must be just awoken…" Mitsuru thought aloud while crossing her arms. "But what exactly is going on inside?"

Yukimura tried to stand up, no avail. "…why don't you ask your fellow in here?"

Seeing that, Akihiko moved to help him stand up, but Yukari halted him. "Wait… who says he's not one of our enemies?… we still don't know a thing about Strega, he might as well be one of them! I say we shouldn't trust him…"

Yukimura looked at her while blinking. Konata and the others told him about that girl and how troublesome she might be for not trusting people around her. Guess you can't have a school without at least one girl to call a she-devil?

"…Easy…" Shinjiro said while kneeling down next to Yukimura. "…look at the pin he's wearing on his chest… I'm sure I've seen Kumi and her comrades wearing the same pin… isn't that right, Aki?"

The silver-haired young boxer thought for a few seconds… then he remembered. Yes, Kagayaku members wore spark-shaped pins, akin to the armband SEES members wore.

Fuuka's words confirmed his thoughts "Yes, he's no liar… I can clearly sense the rest of the group inside the dorm… most of them are on the roof while the others are in the command room."

"Looks like you've got some explaining to do…" Mitsuru said, not sure about trusting the newcomer or not.

"I think so… but right now, your friend is in trouble… if you want explanation, wait till later, 'kay?"

Ken blinked. "Friend… you mean Junpei-San? Did something happen to him?"

Yukimura nodded. "Look, we can stay here chatting the whole night or hurry up and save the guy!" he tried standing up once again. "Crap… no good, I can't move… hey, big guy… you seem strong enough… help me stand up, will ya?" he said to Shinjiro.

The tall teenager in the red coat smiled slightly. "… I see you still have enough energy to act bossy, hm? I might as well leave you here." Still, despite his harsh words, Shinjiro bent down and helped him walk.

Yukimura smiled back. For some reason, he felt like this guy was pretty similar to him himself… maybe he was the one Kumiko and the others were talking about? Still, he seemed different, more interesting…

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chidori could feel something happening far, far away as she unconsciously faced the direction she felt the event occurring, the Paulownia Mall. Then, she faced Junpei, still keeping herself in-between him and the members of Kagayaku. "…it seems they have completed their mission…"

"You can't tell…?" Athrun asked.

The girl nodded. "…I can see everything through Medea – my friend's eyes."

Everyone present were surprised in hearing that. That could only mean one thing: the girl possessed a power akin to Miyuki's and Fuuka's. Still, that could explain how she was able to spot them.

"But that's not important…" Chidori walked closer to Junpei. "Why didn't you call off the mission? Is it worth your life? I thought dying was what people feared most…"

Junpei avoided her gaze and looked at the floor. "Um, actually I never gave anyone orders before… and even if I did, no one would listen anyway… I'm… not really the one in charge… quite the opposite…"

The white-dressed girl looked at him, disappointed. "So you lied to me… why? I don't understand…"

Konata's expression softened as she could feel sadness. You couldn't stand being a nobody… you just wanted someone to think you're special… is that right? Silly thing…

He lifted his head to look into the cold scarlet pools that were Chidori's eyes. "…hey, just tell me one thing… was everything just an act? Our meeting, your wound, the picture… you did it all just to set me up?"

The small blue-haired girl shook her head, grim. She could see that coming, still, she couldn't help but feel very sorry for her dear friend, it made her heart hurt… Oh Junpei… if you only realized it earlier… why didn't you listen when I was trying to warn you? Now you're torn apart…

Junpei looked down again with a grim smile, almost as if he was on the verge of tears. "Now that I think… that cut DID heal up too quickly… now I see how it is… looks like Kona-Chan was right after all…"

Chidori looked away. "No, that was…"

She couldn't finish her sentence, for more people barged through the door: Kenji, Yukari, Mitsuru, Aigis, Ken and Koromaru; the SEES kids were back!

"…looks like we were right to believe in Takeda…" Mitsuru said.

"Junpei?!" Yukari cried, still dumbfounded.

Konata walked to them. All the present people were quite amazed as they looked into her eyes; never the small girl displayed any pure anger. "Ah, you! Where the hell were you when your comrade… no, your FRIEND was in trouble?! Oh, let me guess… probably someone of you might have thought that given his superficial attitude, he probably forgot about the operation, right?! Well, some friends you are! Especially you, Yukari…"

Yukari stepped back: "What… but… but the shadow…"

"You're trying to say that your stupid mission has priority over your team members' well-being?! Don't make me laugh!!"

Yukari tried to talk back but Mitsuru halted her. "Enough, Takeba… Izumi is right… this wouldn't have happened if we were more concerned about him… as much as defeating the shadows is important, it doesn't mean we can't ditch anyone's needs… besides-"

"Ah!! WATCH OUT!!" Tsukasa cried as Chidori pulled out her Evoker.

"What… she's a Persona-user as well?!" Mitsuru asked, bracing herself.

"So it seems…" Kumiko replied, readying her chakrams. "And one related to Strega, for what we know…"

Although outnumbered, Chidori didn't show any kind of fear… rather, she seemed confident about her possible victory over so many enemies. Preparing herself to pull the Evoker's trigger, she closed her eyes with a soothing smile. "Medea, come…"

"OH NO YOU WON'T!!" Konata yelled as she dashed towards Chidori and rammed into her, shoving her to the floor and causing her to drop her Evoker. As the red-haired girl was still stunned, she sat astride on her back, handcuffing her. "Athrun, hurry! Untie Junpei of his rope! Kagami! Pick up her Evoker!"

Kagami, hesitating for a moment, moved to pick op the gun-shaped device, which caused Chidori to struggle even more desperately to free herself. "NO!! MEDEA!! GIVE HER BACK!!"

Meanwhile, Ikutsuki and the rest of SEES and Kagayaku arrived on the scene. Akihiko apologized for being late, but it took them a while to revive the Chairman, which caused the rest of Kagayaku to glance at Shinn, who silently apologized.

"We've heard the whole story from Takeda…" Akihiko said to Kagami as she gave him Chidori's Evoker. "Sorry, but we can't let you have this…" he then said to Chidori, causing her to become more desperate in wanting Medea back.

"Oh, Miyuki-Senpai… were you able to sense her at all? Because I couldn't until this very moment… and this is my only power…" Fuuka asked to Miyuki, frustrated.

Miyuki shook her head. She could only barely sense her presence… and even breaking through her protection was an incredibly hard task, requiring all of her energy.

Meanwhile, Mitsuru and Kumiko approached Chidori, while Konata gave the girl to Aigis, who tied up her hands and held her. "Fukuyama here claimed you are a member of the group known as Strega. Is that correct? I have a number of question to ask you…" then, to Kumiko. "I hope you have nothing against us taking her in custody."

Kumiko sighed and placed both hands on her waist. "…we have no right to oppose ourselves… not after trespassing your headquarters." She said, lowering her head.

"Keep your head up, Fukuyama. I hate to think what would have happened if you didn't… you're precious allies to us… and I hope you'll keep on supporting us… I just hope you we'll no longer need to bend the rules like this…" Mitsuru said, still looking at Chidori.

On her hand, the girl from Strega wouldn't have stopped shaking, her eyes lost in fear. "…I'm not… afraid… of dying…" she whispered, her whole body screaming the exact opposite of her words.

One could easily say Chidori was scared right then. The helpless look in her eyes Junpei to wince… and Shinn too, who, for instance, found her very similar to Stellar. Chidori was probably as scared as she was, just, unlike the cute blonde girl, she always tried to cover it. Nevertheless, both were two frail, emotionally unstable girls who needed help. Shinn hoped Junpei to be able to stand by her side, because he would have definitely done it for Stellar!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A dark room within Kotobuki hotel, right after the Dark Hour passed by.

Rei was typing something on his computer. Right after the rescue operation, he got protected data from Shinn and sensing something off about the whole thing, he immediately started working on bypassing the file's protection.

It was to be expected they held this kind of information…

A series of information scrolled on the monitor. Rei frowned as he read all of them incredibly fast.

Project Nyx… so that's it! This is even worse than I thought… Should I tell them?… hmm… even if I did, it's not like the SEES members will stop taking those shadows down… no, not yet… but soon, before it's too late…

NEXT CHAPTER PREVIEW!!

Konata: On the next episode of PERUSURI… thrilling events are right behind the corner!

Tsukasa: Kumi-Chan… can I ask you a question?

Kumiko: Um? Sure, what is it?

Tsukasa: What does the date, October 4th, symbolizes to you?

Kumiko: October 4th? Nothing specific… why do you ask?

Tsukasa: Because that's the next chapter's title!

Miyuki: Hmm… I wonder… does any of you know what it means?

Athrun: Wow! So there IS something our dearest MiWiki doesn't know!

Yukimura: Hey… who said you could call her like that?

Athrun: Um… no, nothing…

Ken: Did you say… October 4th? That's… the day my mom…

Kagami: Ken… are you…?

Shinn: I see… so you ARE planning to get revenge…

Akihiko: Revenge…? You mean… oh no! Shinji…!!

Kumiko: What's that supposed to mean…? What really happened to you, Shinji-Kun?

Fuuka: No, Senpai!

Shinjiro: Don't feel sad for me, everyone… this is for the best.

Shinn: Stop it, you idiot!!

Aigis: Shin Megami Tensei: PeruSuri, chapter 7.

Mitsuru: "October 4th".

Kenji: Please read and review… well, unless you're easily depressed… I mean really, the next chapter is kinda sad! Just like the rest of the fic… so if you're easily depressed, don't read any more!

Kagami/Yukari: KENJI ARE YOU NUTS?! YOU WANT TO RUIN US?!?!?

BLUE VELVET: The Peru*Suri trivia channel: Ep.6

Elizabeth: Welcome back to the Velvet Room for a new episode of Blue Velvet. As you all probably know, my name is Elizabeth and this one is Maxwell, my loyal servant.

Maxwell: In flesh, blood… and paint!

Elizabeth: Well Maxwell, seems like the fic just got a new entry during this chapter: the fiery-haired Yukimura "Sanada" Takeda.

Maxwell: That's right. For those of you wondering, he's an original character Duran the Warrior made for his latest Lucky Star fan fiction: "Worth Every Scrap of Trouble". This is the second character Duran let the authoress borrow for her story…

Elizabeth: It appears the two of them were sharing ideas for their own stories as they chatted with something called an instant messenger and Duran asked her to put his character into PeruSuri… so, here he is, ready to battle with his Persona, Nobushige of the Temperance Arcana. And we wish to thank Duran for his availability once again. By the way, Maxwell… do you know what an instant messenger is?

Maxwell: Ummmm…. I think…. That's… I mean…. Uh…. Ssssssso, Eliz… what's with us in this episode of Blue Velvet?

Elizabeth: …nice way of beating around the bush, Maxwell… anyway… (Takes some papers) We had a few people pointing the fact that Aigis' Persona Arcanum is called Aeon in FES while in the original Persona 3 game it's The Chariot, just like in this fan fiction; to those people, I want to point that the when the authoress, Orochi Shiki, started writing this story, FES was not even releases in Europe where she lives… and so she decided to use the standard P3 canons.

Maxwell: Now it makes sense… now, if you remember, we had another interview scheduled for the last episode, but since the chapter was too long, the authoress decided to postpone it to this episode… (Stands up and slams his hands on the desk) SO! Here he is! The one and only hero of Persona 3: KENJIIIIIIIII SHUGOOOO!! (Quickly) Mostly known among the P3 fandom as Minato Arisato!

Igor: Hold on… he's on the verge of falling asleep during classes… once he dozed off, I'll drag him here… aaaaaaaaaaaand NOW! (Snaps his fingers)

Kenji appears between Elizabeth and Maxwell

Kenji: (Yawns and looks around, still groggy) … oh, Igor! I didn't recognize you at first… you look so different with hair, sunglasses and a small nose! So that's what all those requests were for!

Maxwell: Um… I'm not…

Igor: (Clears his voice) I'm right here…

Kenji: ??????

Igor: Yes, I am Igor…

Kenji: ……Why are there two of them? (Tilts his head in an interrogative manner)

Igor, Elizabeth and Maxwell facevault

Maxwell: Um… A-are you sure about this guy?

Elizabeth: Trust him… the master handpicked him personally… there HAS to be a reason… besides, he looks pretty cute!

Maxwell: Tch… girls can't be reasonable when they see a pretty face… anyway, on with the questions… what are your feelings about being in PeruSuri?

Kenji: (Dozes off)

Maxwell: (Angrily slams his sketchbook on the desk) WELL, WHAT ARE THOSE?!

Kenji: Um… how does it feel? Good, I suppose… the new group of Persona-users is full of nice people… by the way… I've been so busy lately I couldn't hang around with Tsukasa-Chan… I hope she's not mad at me…

Elizabeth: Some things are better left unknown… (Rolls eyes)

Maxwell: Next question: according to fans around the world, you're seen as the most badass RPG hero so far, given the fact your max courage level is "badass", you're able to score with multiple girls, possess a virtually infinite potential and can fight death itself… what do you think?

Kenji: Personally, I think there are RPG heroes who deserve that title more than I do… I don't think I'm anything special (Sheepish laugh) … now, Ness is a badass RPG main character… you know... Ness? The kid with the striped shirt, red cap and psycho powers? You got to be REAL badass to handle such an ultimate enemy in such a young age…

Maxwell: Honestly, you can't compare death to an alien mind-rapist, but you've got a point… what if I told you that Mara himself was disturbed by the Earthbound final battle?

Elizabeth: THE Mara?! For real??

Maxwell: U-huh… (Draws a remote control with his paintbrush; the remote control becomes material and Maxwell takes it, turning the TV on) Video!!

MegaTen Special: I feel…s-c-a-r-e-d…

An ordinary day in the dimension the Shin Megami Tensei demons dwell (One of the many). Lucifer (Helel in FES) is walking around as he spots Mara: the twisted-looking Sri Lankan demon is curled into a ball, whimpering, which is rare for someone as arrogant and confident as he is.

Perplexed, Lucifer runs into Lilim and asks her what's wrong.

"Oh, it happened two days ago… Mara was into a retro-gaming session, playing an old Nintendo RPG about kids, psycho powers and aliens… and the next thing is him like this."

Unable to believe such a game can disturb MARA, of all demons, Lucifer tries it out on a SNES emulator… after hours and hours of gameplay (Witnessed by Alp and Decarabia as well), he finally reaches the final battle… it doesn't take much for him to be utterly shocked…

A day passes.

Odin passes by Lucifer's bedroom: the fallen angel is lying on his bed in a fetal position while sucking his own thumb.

"Man, how can the country you created make such a THING!" The Trickster asks Izanagi.

The Japanese deity scratches his cheek with an embarrassed smile. "That's what I'd like to know …"

Elizabeth: Wow… is that game THAT messed up? Maybe I should make a request about retrieving me that game and see for myself…

Maxwell: I advise against it…

Elizabeth: Now, on to the next question… it appears that there are many girls you scored with… so tell me… what exactly IS the kind of girl you prefer the most?

Kenji: Ummmm… no one, I love all of them!

Elizabeth: What's your favourite food?

Kenji: I love ramen and gyudon.

Elizabeth: Trunks or undies?

Kenji: Something halfway between those two.

Elizabeth: The weirdest position you had s-

Maxwell: (Hushes her) Whoa, whoa, whoa! Girl! From the questions you're making it feels like one of those interviews girls read about cool guys you see on TV and such! One'd think you want to date him…

Elizabeth: Umm…

Maxwell: NOOO, YOU MEAN REALLY?!

Kenji: ??????

Elizabeth: (Awkward) Ooh, looks like our time has ran out again! I'll look forward to your next visit! Come, Kenji… you promised me to show me the Shirakawa Boulevard! (Drags Kenji outside)

Kenji: Huh????

Maxwell: (Stays in the middle of the room, alone and sobs) ……somebody please hold me…